Leadwork in Cheshire

Forming lead joints that shed water

1. Expose the failed junction. Adjacent tiles are lifted where needed to see the whole flashing. We look for splits, trapped water and unsupported sections beneath old patching.
2. Prepare the supporting surface. Chases and timber supports are checked before new lead is cut. Sharp edges and debris are removed so the sheet rests on a suitable base.
3. Size the lead sections. The lead code and piece lengths are selected for the detail. Laps and movement joints prevent long sheets being restrained as temperatures change.
4. Dress and secure the metal. Lead is formed around the junction without stretching vulnerable corners. Clips, wedges and fixings hold it in place while allowing the intended movement.
5. Close the weathering detail. The chase is sealed with the appropriate material and surrounding covering reinstated. We check that water leaves the lead onto the roof or gutter below.

Time needed for flashing and valley work

A small accessible flashing repair can take a few hours, while replacing a chimney back gutter or a long valley can occupy a day or more. Taking tiles off safely and restoring them adds time beyond shaping the lead itself. High stacks usually need scaffold, which is arranged around the roofing visit. Decayed timber beneath a valley requires repair before the lining goes down. Rain also limits work where the junction must be opened.

Choosing the right lead detail

Code 4 and code 5 lead are common choices for domestic roof details, with the code selected for the location, size and support. A stepped flashing follows masonry joints beside a pitched slope. Individual soakers sit between courses where that roof covering needs them. The visible cover flashing protects the upper edge of the soakers. Making the exposed lead wider does not compensate for a missing layer underneath, so the whole arrangement is inspected before a replacement detail is specified.

Valleys and chimney back gutters carry concentrated water and need a sound, correctly shaped base. Lead provides a formed lining, while some roof layouts suit a compatible prefabricated valley system. The surrounding tiles, available channel width and outlet determine the choice. For a damp stack, chimney repairs may also be needed above the flashing. If water has travelled through several roof details, a leak investigation establishes which junction actually requires work before any metal is replaced.