Leadwork in Medway

Look beneath the visible metal edge

A strip of lead seen from your garden is only part of the junction. Its upper fixing, the overlap below and the support underneath all matter. When requesting an assessment, identify whether the affected detail sits beside a wall, behind a chimney or between two roof slopes. Mention earlier patches or coatings as well.

The repair sequence starts by exposing enough of the junction to understand its construction. Surrounding tiles or slates are lifted as required, then the lead and its base are examined. Sound metal with a failed fixing needs a different approach from a sheet that has cracked through. The proposed remedy should explain that distinction.

Give each lead detail room to move

Lead expands and contracts as temperatures change. The thickness, length of each piece and arrangement of joints must allow that movement. One long sheet held rigidly at every edge creates stress. Proper sizing and fixing are therefore part of the specification, even though you cannot judge them from the finished surface alone.

Rolled lead sheet comes in different thicknesses for different uses. Thin hidden soakers beneath individual slates serve a different purpose from a lining carrying water down a valley. Discuss the proposed detail in plain terms: where water enters it, how it travels across the metal and where it leaves. That makes the material choice easier to understand.

Judge the cost by the junction's complexity

Length and sheet thickness influence material cost, but shaping and access also count. A straight wall junction takes a different amount of work from corners around a stack. Removing old coverings, repairing the support and reinstating neighbouring roofing all belong in the scope. Include those tasks when comparing the work described in your quotes.

Renewing a short exposed flashing has fewer stages than rebuilding a concealed valley detail. Bespoke shaping, masonry preparation and suitable working conditions extend the programme. Agree whether adjoining roof sections need opening and how they will be protected during the work. A clear sequence helps you plan around the repair without relying on a fixed duration for every roof.

Leave finished lead clear of later alterations

Once the metalwork is complete, avoid fastening cables, aerial supports or other fixtures through it. A new hole creates a fresh route beneath the covering. Tell any visiting trade about the repaired junction before they begin work nearby. Keep the repair photographs available to show what was installed and which area it protects.

From below, check for displaced edges after strong winds and accumulated debris in open channels. Arrange safe removal of leaves that obstruct drainage. Do not flatten a formed joint or force lifted metal back with improvised fixings. Report a change in shape for assessment, and retain the specification so future repairs use a compatible detail.