Ridge Cap Shingles: What They Do and Why They Matter

Ridge cap shingles cover the peak of your roof and the hips, the sloped edges where two roof planes meet on the outside. They fold over the top of the roof and seal the joint between the two sides. On many roofs they also cover the ridge vent.

Why the ridge matters

The ridge and hips are the highest, most exposed parts of the roof. Wind hits them first and hardest, and hail lands on them squarely. Ridge cap that blows off leaves an open seam at the very top of the roof, right where water runs down both sides.

Ridge cap vs cut field shingles

Some roofers make ridge cap by cutting regular shingles into pieces. Made-for-purpose hip and ridge shingles are thicker and shaped to bend over the peak without cracking. On our Atlas shingle systems, the Atlas Signature Select system warranty requires Atlas hip and ridge along with the qualifying shingle and other Atlas accessories.

Signs your ridge cap needs attention

• Missing or lifted pieces along the peak after a storm.
• Cracks across the ridge shingles where they bend.
• Granules worn off, leaving dark spots on the ridge.
• Nails backing out along the top.

Hip and ridge on each Patriot roof package

• Armor (metal): metal ridge system.
• Guardian and Defender: impact-rated hip and ridge.
• Shield: standard ridge.

Compare the packages on our asphalt shingle roofing and roof replacement pages. For a few loose pieces, our roof repair price book lists replacing up to 5 shingles at $379 on a standard-pitch, one-story home.

Frequently asked questions

Can ridge cap be replaced without a new roof?

Yes. Damaged ridge cap can be replaced as a repair, as long as the shingles around it are sound.

Should ridge cap match my shingles?

It should. We use hip and ridge made to match the shingle line on your roof.

Seeing a leak or a stain?

Book a repair visit. The diagnostic visit is $79.99, and Patriot Care Club members pay no service fee. Your technician shows you the price from our price book before any work starts.