At GNR, our specialist teams of lead workers have decades of experience working with the lead on a plethora of projects.
As members of The Lead Contractors Association, our customers can be assured that all leadwork undertaken by us is compliant, fit for purpose and designed to maximise the life of the material.
The exact standards implemented by our trained lead workers mean that the value of any lead sheet installation is maximised. Proper practices, using superior products, lead to increased life expectancy of all leadwork applications. By installing lead in this way we are able to offer our clients exceptional warranties on our work. More information on available warranties for leadwork.
Below, are a few examples of areas where lead sheet is commonly used for roofing applications. Please note that the list is not exhaustive and lead, due to its versatile nature, can be used for a number of weatherproofing applications.
Stepped or straight, lead installed correctly and in the correct code, is an extremely durable flashing material. The nature of lead flashings will differ depending upon the type of roof covering.
For tiled roof coverings, it is usual to dress the lead onto the tiles. When installing a flashing for a slated roof the lead, usually code 4 or 5, is used as a cover for the soakers that are integrated into the slating below.
Enquire about lead flashingsA lead valley is a detail where one roof area runs into another on a pitched elevation. Lead valley linings are usually installed in minimum widths of 450mm using code 5 lead sheet.
Further, lead valley linings, when installed in code 5 lead, should be in maximum lengths. Minimum laps and nailing patters also apply to the installation of lead valley linings. Such guidance also considers the pitch of the roof area and what material is being used to interface with the lead valley.
Make an enquiryUsually, there are a number of elements to a lead-covered dormer. To allow for thermal movement it is crucial that lead when used on dormers is installed correctly. Incorrect installation will lead to premature failure, usually as a result of splitting
contact usLead makes a great lining for a gutter. Whether or not that gutter is central to a building or on the perimeter, lead, installed correctly, will provide a superior solution to other products.
Lead can be formed to create fully weatherproof channels and outlets can be positioned by welding them into place.
enquire about lead guttersLead has been used for centuries as a roofing material. Lead as a material is extremely durable, lasting three times longer than other man-made alternatives. Further, lead is an extremely environmentally friendly material being 100% recyclable. For example, all lead removed from each of our projects is sent away for recycling.
To read more about the Green Credentials of lead, please click here.
Lead is more versatile than any other roofing material. Its malleable nature makes lead ideal for the following roofing applications. More so, the installation of lead is very specific and a clear set of guidelines set out by the Lead Sheet Association should be adhered to.
When installing lead roof coverings in any form it is important to consider which code to use. For instance, code 3 lead should never be left exposed and should always be covered with a higher code to act as a cover flashing. An example of this can be seen when using code 3 lead to act as a soaker when slating a roof area up to an abutment. The code 3 lead would be used, integrated within the slates, and a code 4 or 5 stepped or straight cover flashing installed over the top.
Further, the thickness of lead allows variations in the lengths of installation. For instance, when installing a lead valley lining, code 5 lead can be installed.
| Code | Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg/m2) | Recommended use(s) |
| Code 3 | 1.32 | 14.97 | Perfect for soakers |
| Code 4 | 1.80 | 20.41 | Flashings, soakers, pitched valley gutters, dormers and vertical cladding |
| Code 5 | 2.24 | 25.40 | Pitched and tapered valley gutters, dormers, flashings, vertical cladding and flat roofs |
| Code 6 | 2.65 | 30.05 | Flashings, pitched and tapered valley gutters, dormers and flat roofs |
| Code 7 | 3.15 | 35.72 | Pitched and tapered valley gutters, dormers and flat roofs |
| Code 8 | 3.55 | 40.26 | Pitched and tapered valley gutters, dormers and flat roofs |
Lead has been used in roof construction for centuries, due to its superb malleability and low melting point. It can be moulded to any shape, is highly resistant to corrosion and non-combustible, making it ideal for all roofing applications.
Read our post about benefits of lead roofingLead sheet, is one of the oldest and most durable roofing materials, and has been known to last for over 200 years.
Generally, you can expect professionally installed lead roofing to last the lifetime of your home or business premises, but it’s essential that any lead roofing repairs are carried out by a competent and experienced roofing company, such as GNR Roofing.
When undertaking any works to your roof or leadwork you must ensure the person you hire to complete the job has the relevant skill set and qualifications. Employing someone based on cost over skill can often lead to further issues down the line. We highly recommend you employ an LCA (Lead Contractors Association), specialist.
The LCA consists of 72 specialist installer members and 10 associate members All members are vetted and their work graded on a regular basis LCA members can provide a 25-year guarantee of their work.
GNR Roofing is one of the 72 Members you can check our membership here LCA Leadwork where our work has been graded as excellent.
Costs will vary depending on the amount of lead required, the difficulty of the job and the access. But as a typical example, you will need to factor the cost to replace all the lead around a chimney (apron, step flashing, and back box), to also include scaffold to a chimney which is near the edge of the roof. All adds to the cost of the job. It is best to obtain a quote from a leadwork professional.
