Expert Roofing Hacks
To help you work smarter, not harder, Marley’s technical team has compiled this list of expert tips to help speed up common roofing tasks, all while maintaining quality and supporting compliance with relevant standards.
1. Speed up roof tile clipping with one-piece clips
Depending on the roof structure, the type of roof tile being used and local wind conditions, nails alone may not be enough to secure tiles. For most projects in the UK, tile clips are required to ensure tiles are fixed securely and fully compliant with BS 5534:2014+A2:2018, the code of practice for slating and tiling on pitched roofs.
Tile clipping is widely recognised as one of the most time-intensive parts of the roofing process. When using traditional two-piece tile clips, a nail needs to be inserted into each clip, which must then be be accurately positioned over the interlock of the tile before finally driving in the nails. The work is repetitive, monotonous and time-consuming – particularly on large or complex roofs with multiple abutments, hips and valleys. The choice of fixing system can make a significant difference in the time it takes to clip tiles in place.
SoloFix is Marley's one-piece clip-and-nail system. It is designed to reduce clipping time by up to 30%, simplifying installation without compromising security or compliance. The integrated design means there are fewer components to handle. It also simplifies alignment and speeds up while still providing the mechanical strength and durability required for BS 5534 compliance.
SoloFix has been designed for use with all standard interlocking tiles but always check clip compatibility with your chosen tile and follow manufacturer guidance to ensure compliance.
2. Use an underlay with an integrated tape system for faster lap sealing
Roof underlays protect against wind uplift and moisture ingress. Ensuring the laps are secure is an essential part of installation. However, manually taping the laps or using fly battens can significantly increase the installation time.
To make underlay installation easier, Marley's underlays feature an integrated tape system for sealing laps. These speed up installation and eliminate the need for rolls of specialist tape. Marley underlays are also marked with guidelines to assist with the horizontal laying of the membranes. They also correspond with the different overlaps as set out by BS 5534, helping to reduce installation errors and achieve a professional finish.
3. Use dry-fix systems to save time and support compliance
BS 5534 requires that all single-lap roof tiles and accessories be mechanically fixed for safety and weather resistance.
Opting for a dry-fix system can also help installers save time, as it removes the need to wait for mortar to dry and cure.
Unlike mortar, dry-fix systems can also be installed in all weather conditions – as long as it’s safe for the roofing team. This means that there’s no need for downtime while you wait for dry weather to carry out mthe mortar bedding, and no risk of unsightly staining on the roof, should the rain arrives before the mortar is dry.
4. Use a dry-fix system with integrated ventilation
Condensation and excess moisture can make homes uncomfortable. It can also lead to serious damage from damp and mould, particularly when it occurs in areassuch as the roof space or between walls.
A suitable ventilation system keeps air moving and allows excess water vapour to escape before it can condense. Depending on the roof construction, continuous ventilation is usually recommended at the ridge and the eaves. Using a dry-fix system that already includes ventilation can save time, as you won’t need to install additional high-level ventilation.
Marley’s ventilated dry ridge system streamlines the installation of ridge tiles and provides continuous ventilation along the entire length of the roof ridge.
5. Join different roof coverings with a dry-fix bonding gutter
When joining two different roof coverings, such as on terraced or semi-detached homes, a dry-fix bonding gutter provides a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional lead detailing. The result is a durable, weatherproof junction between different roofs. It also eliminates the need for mortar.
Manufactured from GRP (glass-reinforced polyester), Marley bonding gutters resist corrosion, rot and the theft risk associated with lead detailing. They are also dry-fixed, providing a low-maintenance option that integrates with BS 5534-compliant roof systems.
Marley bonding gutters are available in high and low profiles. The right product depends on the type of tiles or slates used on the roofs.
- High-profile gutters have a 100mm upstand. They are recommended when profiled concrete tiles or larger height differences are present between roofs.
- Low-profile gutters have a 70mm upstand. They are suitable for use with fibre-cement slates, plain tiles or Marley Edgemere, Modern and Ashmore interlocking tiles.
Both profiles are approximately 210 mm wide and supplied in 3m lengths.
At side abutments, Marley dry fix soakers provide similar time-saving benefits. They are made from high-density polypropylene and create a neat, mortar-free junction that integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Marley dry fix system.
6. Fix verges quickly and securely with batten end clips
BS 8612:2018 – the specification for dry fix ridge, hip and verge systems for slating and tiling – requires dry verge products to be clipped or screwed – not just nailed – into the batten end.
The Marley Batten End Clip has been designed to make it easier for roofers to install dry verges according to these requirements.
This C-shaped clip is designed to fit securely onto the end of the batten and has a strong metal plate for the dry verge to be fixed into using the ring-shank nails provided. The clips can simply be pushed or hammered into place, helping speed up verge installation while maintaining compliance.
7. Save time on site with pre-formed clay fittings
When working with clay plain tiles, pre-formed fittings, such as factory-made ridge and hip tiles, can save time and add visual appeal. They also eliminate time spent on site making formed fittings such as mitred hips.
In addition, pre-formed clay fittings can help reduce cutting and waste while ensuring a consistent, high-quality finish.
8. Save time and ensure compliance with the Marley Roof System
Designed for efficiency and compliance, the Marley roof system includes a wide range of compatible roofing products. From roof battens and underlays to roof tiles, ventilation systems, dry-fix accessories and solar PV, the system includes everything roofers need to construct a roof quickly and to a high standard.For more tips and expert roofing advice, please contact our team. We’ll be happy to help.