Leadwork & Lead Flashing in Hampshire

What is Lead Flashing?

Lead flashing is the unsung hero of a watertight roof. It's the strips of lead that seal the gaps where different parts of your roof meet — around chimneys, at abutments where a roof meets a wall, and at other vulnerable joints.

When properly installed, lead flashing directs water away from these critical points. When it fails, water finds its way into your home, often causing damage that's disproportionate to the small area of flashing involved.

Signs Your Leadwork Needs Attention

Lead is durable, but it doesn't last forever. Here's what to look for:

• Damp patches near chimney breasts — The classic sign of failing chimney flashing.
• Leaks that appear after heavy rain — Often pointing to flashing failure at a joint.
• Staining on walls — Water tracking down from a flashing failure above.
• Visible lifting or gaps — Lead that has pulled away from the wall or roof.
• Cracked cement — The mortar holding lead into the wall joint has failed.
• White staining on lead — Oxidation that may indicate the lead is aging.

Why Lead Flashing Matters

The joints where different parts of your roof meet are the most vulnerable points for water ingress. Unlike tile or slate damage, which is often visible, flashing failures can go unnoticed until you see the damage inside. Effects can include:

• Damp penetration into walls and ceilings
• Mould growth and associated health issues
• Damage to internal decoration
• Rotting of timber structures over time
• Damage to electrical installations

Good leadwork is about precision and attention to detail — that's where proper craftsmanship makes the difference.

Our Leadwork Services

We provide comprehensive leadwork services including:

• Chimney flashing — Full replacement or repair of back gutters, stepped flashing, and aprons.
• Abutment flashing — Where your roof meets walls, extensions, or dormers.
• Valley linings — The lead channel where two roof sections meet.
• Skylight flashings — Proper sealing around roof windows and lights.
• Lead repairs — Patching and resealing where full replacement isn't necessary.

Quality Materials and Techniques

We use code 4 and code 5 lead sheet as appropriate for the application, cut and dressed to fit your specific roof. All lead is:

• Properly fixed to allow for thermal movement
• Dressed carefully into joints and around obstacles
• Treated with patination oil to prevent staining
• Secured to prevent wind lift

Lead is a traditional material, but proper installation requires skill and experience. Our work is completed to industry standards and built to last.