Lead work in Hampshire and Surrey

Trace the junction before forming new lead

1. Follow water through the detail. We establish where rain arrives and where the junction should discharge it. This distinguishes a split lining from an obstructed channel or a failed connection higher up the wall.
2. Inspect the lead and support. The metal is checked for cracks, lifting and signs of strain. Its backing and fixing arrangement are considered alongside the visible surface, because a poorly supported detail needs more than a surface patch.
3. Plan access to the edges. Tiles, slates or masonry joints that conceal the lead edges are identified before removal. The repair scope explains which surrounding materials need lifting to reach and renew the weathering detail properly.
4. Form the replacement junction. Lead is shaped for the particular flashing, valley or gutter, with appropriate laps, support and movement provision. The connection to the roof covering and masonry is completed as part of that detail.
5. Check discharge and reinstatement. Adjacent coverings are put back and the route out of the lead-lined area is reviewed. Corners, outlets and upper terminations are inspected together to confirm how the renewed junction will shed rain.

Three lead details with different drainage roles

• Wall and chimney flashings: Flashings bridge the meeting point between roofing and masonry. The upper edge needs a secure termination while the lower section covers the roof junction, including stepped arrangements beside a pitched slope.
• Valleys between slopes: A valley collects rain from the roofs on either side. Renewing its lead involves checking support, laps and the cut covering edges so the channel remains able to carry water downwards.
• Parapet gutter linings: A concealed channel behind a raised wall needs a sound lining and a clear outlet. We assess its length, corners and discharge arrangement before specifying the lead and the connections around it.

How long lead work takes

The time needed for lead work follows the complexity of the junction and the access to its concealed edges. Opening tiled valleys, forming parapet corners and chasing flashing into masonry involve different preparation and reinstatement stages.

What affects the price

• Type and dimensions of the lead weathering detail
• Condition of the timber or masonry supporting it
• Amount of covering lifted to expose concealed edges
• Corners, steps, laps and outlet connections requiring formation
• Access for working beside walls or within valleys

Lead repairs are priced around the complete junction, including preparation and reinstatement. Ask for a free quote and identify the wall, valley or parapet channel where water is entering or collecting.

Looking after it afterwards

Keep lead-lined channels free from accumulated debris through planned maintenance. Watch from a safe position for new lifting at flashings or blockages near outlets. Avoid fixing cables or other fittings through the metal, which creates a fresh water-entry point.