06 Oct The Importance of Leadwork in Roofing

Lead is a highly versatile roofing material. A popular choice for both roof repair and flashing, leadwork is soft and malleable, which means that it can be carefully bossed into a range of different shapes. Not only is lead wonderfully flexible, but it’s also highly durable too, thanks to its natural resistance to corrosion and water.

With so many useful properties, it makes no wonder leadwork makes up such a valuable component in any roofing project.

Lead is most commonly used on a roof to seal the joints between two surfaces. This process is known as “flashing,” and it acts as a barrier between your roof and brickwork. Used correctly, lead roof flashing can prevent leaks, and keep your roof safe from unpredictable changes in the weather. Lead flashing can be found in many areas throughout a house, from your walls and doors to your skylights, vents, and roof valleys.

Here, we’ll look at the real value of leadwork in your roofing.

Leadwork and Roof Flashing

Lead is one of the most popular materials used in roof flashing. Roof flashings are designed to maintain a watertight and durable roof. Without flashing, rainwater would just disappear into the interior of your house, causing damp, and problems with structural integrity.

Applying a cement filling to the joints in your roof wouldn’t be enough to protect you from the weather. Even with a bonding agent applied, water can easily find it’s way through and behind cement fillets. Over time, cement begins to crack and fall away, allowing for leaks and moisture inside the house.

There are many different kinds of roof flashing available today, but lead is by far the most popular. Not only is lead much more attractive than copper flashing, but it also offers incredible strength and durability. Some lead flashing can even last for as long as 500 years.

Lead flashing can also extend the lifespan of your roof, by reducing the risk of cracked and damaged tiles. However, leadwork isn’t just available as a solution for flashing; it can also cover gutters, joints, and the rest of your roof too.

Lead sheeting has been a common component in the roofing material world for many years now, thanks to its waterproof nature.

The key benefits of Leadwork in roofing

Lead has long been regarded as one of the best roof coverings on the market, offering reliability and peace of mind for flat and arched roof systems alike. One of the most unique features of leadwork is its flexibility. Unlike copper and other lead alternatives, leadwork in your roofing can expand and contract with changes in temperature. This means that your lead will work with the other elements in your roof, not against them.

Other benefits of leadwork in roofing include:

• Lead is environmentally friendly: Leadwork will not be a threat to the environment once it is correctly installed on your roof. Most lead sheets are recycled.
• Leadwork provides your roof with absolute protection against all weather conditions, including rain, snow, and
• Lead is one of the most durable human-made materials in the world. Though it has a low carbon footprint, it doesn’t compromise on strength or long-term performance.
• Lead is cost-effective because it can last for hundreds of years before a repair is needed.
• Lead looks attractive, either as a full roof covering, or as part of your flashing system to protect you against rain and moisture.

Leadwork Stands the Test of Time

When it comes to investing in your home, the decisions you make about your roof system are crucial. Leadwork not only protects your property from things like harsh weather and water damage, but it also ensures that you have the peace of mind that comes with a truly durable roof system.

As your building gets older, a lead roof can adapt and flex according to the needs of the materials around it. The malleability of lead makes it an un-matched substance for long-term performance. What’s more, lead requires very little maintenance over time, which means that it could help you to save some money on roof care.

Find out more about the importance of leadwork in your roofing today by reaching out to Roundhay Roofing.