How To Fit Lead Flashing On A Pitched Roof UK

Due to its durability, flexibility, and noncorrosive nature, lead is the most common material for flashings on a flat roof or a pitched roof. It can be used in many different applications, including as a rain gutter flashing or as a downspout flashing. Lead flashing has been around since ancient times when it was first used by the Romans. The Romans would use lead to protect their roofs from water damage. They would also use lead to make pipes that they could use to transport water. Today, lead is still one of the most popular materials for building flashing because it is very durable and flexible and used widely for roof repairs and new roof installations.

What is Lead Flashing?

Lead flashing is a piece of milled lead used to form a weathertight seal between joints. Over the years, lead flashing has been used in places such as where a roof meets a wall, on roof valleys, around chimneys, pipes, and around windows, skylights and doors.

How Do I Install Lead Flashing to a Pitched Roof?

There are two methods for installing lead flashing to a pitched roof. The first method uses a special tool called a “lead flashing hammer” which allows you to drive the lead flashing into place while using a mallet or sledgehammer. If you have access to a power saw, then you may use this method instead.

The second method is to install the lead flashing by hand. This requires some basic carpentry skills and tools, but it’s easier than using a hammer. You will need a tape measure, wood chisel, and an 8-inch level.

Step 1

Measure out 16 inches from the bottom edge of the roof. Mark the spot with a pencil.

Step 2

Cut a piece of lead flashing 14 inches long. Use your tape measure to make sure the length is exactly 16 inches. Cut off any excess lead flashing with a sharp knife.

Step 3

Place the lead flashing over the mark you made in step one. Make sure the lead flashing overlaps the top edge of the roof at least 4 inches.

Step 4

Using a mallet or sledged hammer, pound down the lead flashing until it is flush against the shingles.

Step 5

Measure up 6 inches from the bottom edge. Repeat steps 1 through 4 to install the rest of the lead flashing.

Step 6

Once all of the lead flashing is installed, check the workmanship. If there are gaps or loose pieces on the roof surface, fill them in with more lead flashing.

Step 7

Once everything looks good, apply a bead of silicone caulk along the bottom edge of each piece of lead flashing. Allow the silicone to dry completely before applying additional coats if needed.

Step 8

Use a paintbrush to apply several layers of latex caulking compound to the entire area. Let the compound dry completely before adding another coat.

Step 9

Apply another layer of latex caulking compound over the entire area. Once again let the compound dry completely before applying another coat.

Step 10

Allow the final coat of latex caulking compound time to cure overnight. When the next day comes, remove the old caulking compound with a putty knife and clean the surface with water.

Step 11

If necessary, repeat steps 8 through 10 to complete the installation.

Other Types of Flashing Material

You may find that you want to use a different type of flashing material depending on the application. Here are some examples:

Metal Flashing – Metal flashing is similar to lead flashing except that it is usually thicker and heavier. It is commonly used for eaves, valleys, and around windows and doors.

Wooden Flashing – Wooden flashing is often used to cover seams between sloped wooden deck boards.

Fibreglass Flashing – Fiberglass flashing is similar to metal flashing except that it is lighter weight and less expensive. It is commonly used to cover seams between vinyl siding and brick or stone walls.

Fibre Reinforced Plastic Flashing – FRP flashing is similar to fibreglass flashing except that it has added strength and durability. It is commonly used as a replacement for aluminum flashing.

Lead Paint Flashing – Lead paint flashing is similar to lead flashings except that it is painted rather than coated with lead. It is commonly used when installing new roofs.

FAQs

How do you install flashing on an existing roof?

Can you nail lead flashing?

Lead should only be fixed into place with copper or stainless steel nails by qualified roofers. This ensures longevity, security, and compliance with applicable building codes and guidelines.