Lead Flashing Repairs & Leadwork In
Aylesford

If you have noticed damp patches on your chimney breast or water staining appearing on internal ceilings during heavy rain, your lead apron or step flashings may have failed. Lead is a durable material, but it is subject to constant thermal expansion and contraction. Over time, this movement can cause the lead to pull away from the brickwork or crack at the joints. In Snodland, where buildings are often exposed to strong winds sweeping down from the North Downs, this mechanical stress is increased. Levi King inspects the condition of existing flashings, looking for signs of fatigue, lifting lead, or mortar failure where the lead meets the chimney stack, providing a clear report on whether a patch or full renewal is required.

The longevity of your roofing repairs depends on using the correct weight of lead for the specific application. For chimney flashings and standard abutments, we typically use Code 4 lead, which offers the ideal balance of flexibility and durability for shaping around brickwork. For more demanding areas like roof valleys or secret gutters, where water volume is higher and the risk of pooling exists, Code 5 lead is the standard requirement. We pride ourselves on traditional manual bossing techniques, which allow us to shape the lead around corners without thinning the metal. By using correct lead codes and applying patination oil to prevent white staining, we ensure your leadwork remains functional and aesthetically consistent with the period character of your property.

Snodland presents a diverse range of building stock, from historic Victorian terraces near the station to modern residential developments. Each requires a different technical approach to leadwork. Older properties often require traditional stepped flashings cut precisely into existing mortar joints, sometimes necessitating the use of lime-based mortar to remain consistent with original building techniques. Modern homes often feature dormers or flat-to-pitched roof abutments that rely on precision lead detailing to maintain a dry interior. Regardless of the building age, Levi King provides tailored solutions that respect the architecture while ensuring full compliance with current building standards for weatherproofing.

Why is my chimney leaking even though the brickwork looks sound? Often, the issue is not the bricks themselves but the interface between the roof and the chimney. If the mortar pointing above the lead flashing has crumbled or the lead itself has split, water will track behind the lead and into your home. Can you repair lead or does it always need replacing? If the lead is in generally good condition but has suffered localised damage, we can often perform professional welding or patching. However, if the lead shows widespread signs of fatigue or thinning, a full replacement is the only way to guarantee watertight integrity. Do you use real lead or plastic alternatives? We exclusively use traditional milled lead because of its proven lifespan and flexibility. Plastic or bitumen alternatives frequently fail within a few years due to UV degradation and the natural thermal movement of a roof. How long does a lead flashing repair take? A simple repair or re-pointing of lead flashings can often be completed in a single visit, while a full chimney re-lead will require more time to ensure all step flashings and aprons are installed to the highest standard.