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Hi, I'm Craig Brown and I am very proud to introduce you to Browns Lead Roofing Services.
Can we help you with your roof?
We are a specialist roofing business - based in the North-West of England covering all areas of Cheshire, Wirral, Shropshire & North Wales!
What do we do?
A roof’s primary role is to shield a building from the elements and stop water from penetrating the structure. One of the most important components that helps achieve this is lead flashing.
At Browns Lead Roofing, we specialise in the installation and repair of lead flashing & lead welding!
Lead flashing plays a vital role in roofing by sealing joints and intersections where water is most likely to enter.
What is Roof Flashing?
Before the development of manufactured lead flashing, builders relied on alternative methods to divert water away from vulnerable joints. These included sloping roof coverings away from junctions, positioning chimneys at the ridge, or shaping brickwork to deflect rainfall. While effective to a degree, these methods were limited.
The introduction of standardised lead flashing made it possible to significantly reduce water ingress at critical points such as chimneys, vent pipes, roof-to-wall junctions, and around doors and windows. Flashing may be visible or hidden and is commonly produced from materials such as lead, copper, or aluminium.
To perform effectively, flashing must allow for thermal movement, particularly on longer runs, as metal expands and contracts with temperature changes. It should also be compatible with surrounding materials to prevent staining or chemical reactions.
Common Types of Roof Flashing
There are three main flashing styles commonly used in roofing projects: apron flashing, step flashing, and chimney flashing.
Apron Flashing
Apron flashing, sometimes called cover flashing, is the most widely used type due to its adaptability. It is commonly installed at the front and rear of chimneys, along flat roof junctions with brickwork, and where a roof meets a wall. It is also suitable for slate and tiled roofs at wall abutments, conservatories, porches, bay windows, and similar features.
Step Flashing
Step flashing is used where a sloping roof meets a vertical wall or chimney. The “steps” are created by cutting and shaping the lead so it fits neatly into the mortar joints between brick courses, forming a staggered pattern similar to a staircase.
This stepped approach allows the bricks to remain intact, avoiding unnecessary cutting, while also providing an attractive and effective waterproof solution.
Chimney Flashing
Chimney flashing is specifically designed to seal the junction between the chimney stack and the roof. Step flashing is usually applied along the sides of the chimney, while apron and back flashings are used at the front and rear to prevent water penetration.
Lead Welding
Lead welding is a precise and highly skilled process used to fuse sections of lead together, forming strong, dependable joints for specialist work.
Unlike many other metals, lead requires a gentler approach due to its low melting temperature and the potential release of hazardous fumes when overheated.
When carried out correctly, this technique not only reinforces the structure but also creates a water tight seal capable of protecting buildings and from the elements.
Mastering lead welding is a blend of experience, accuracy, and technical understanding.
Browns Lead Roofing specialises in Lead Welding!
Pointing & Finishing
Once installed, your new flashing will sealed using either mortar or silicone sealant. When using mortar, it must be fully packed into the chase to prevent voids that could allow water ingress. If silicone sealant is preferred, it must be compatible with lead, as some products can cause corrosion over time. We will ensure the best solution for your roof is discussed with you and installed to the highest professional standard!
As a final step, applying patination oil to new lead flashing is recommended. This reduces the bright appearance of fresh lead and helps protect against white staining caused by rainwater runoff.
Contact us to discuss your requirements & FREE Quote!
Many thanks
Craig Brown
What do our Client's say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Craig and his team did a fantastic job! They arrived on time and installed a fantastic new roof including all the lead flashing! Thanks guys.
Mr DM - Tattenhall
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After a lot of research, I contracted Craig to replace some very detailed lead flashing on my Victorian house. The chimney areas were a particular concern - but I shouldn't have worried! Craig was superb and did a fantastic job. Highly recommended.
Mrs LD - Wrexham
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Browns Lead Roofing was recommended to us by a friend. It was a great recommendation as Craig and his team were amazing. Very efficient and very skilled/knowledgeable. The whole job was completed over a single weekend and it looks great.
Mr BD - Waverton
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