Leadwork & flashing · A focused guide
What should a flashing repair quote say about the material?
Published by Big Ben Roofing Ltd
A flashing repair quotation should identify the proposed material and the detail it will form, rather than describing every grey metal junction simply as leadwork. Ask how the existing material was identified and why the replacement suits the assessed location. The written scope should explain connections to retained covering, masonry and other flashing. Any alternative product should be named and agreed before installation, with its application requirements checked for the actual junction.
Make the product description usable
Ask whether the proposal concerns rolled lead sheet, another metal or a proprietary flashing system and which supplier information applies. A general reference to an industry manual does not identify every product: the Lead Sheet Training Academy distinguishes the material to which its manual applies. The contractor should select an appropriate specification for the junction without asking you to choose a thickness from an online table.
Record substitutions and retained components
If the initially selected material becomes unavailable, ask how an alternative changes the detail, appearance or connection to existing components. Keep that decision in writing before installation. The quotation should distinguish supplied material from the work needed to prepare and reinstate adjoining surfaces. Where part of the original flashing remains, ask how its condition and compatibility with the proposed repair have been assessed.
Useful details to record
- Ask for the new flashing material or proprietary product to be named.
- Confirm which supplier guidance applies to the selected material and location.
- Identify retained flashing and adjoining components included in the assessment.
- Agree a written approval process for any proposed product substitution.
Use information already available from indoors or ground level. Do not climb onto the roof or disturb materials to complete this checklist.
Does the word leadwork guarantee that new rolled lead sheet is included?
The wording alone does not establish the supplied material. Ask the quotation to identify it and describe the proposed repair detail. A clear product specification and scope are more useful than relying on a broad trade description.
Background reading
- Lead Sheet Training Academy: rolled lead sheet technical manual
- Lead Sheet Training Academy: flashing and junction details
General guidance helps frame the questions. The cause, suitable materials and scope depend on inspection of the particular roof.
Related questions
What is the difference between step flashing and roof soakers?
Understand why visible wall flashing does not establish the condition of the separate detail beneath an adjoining slate or tile covering.
Is split lead flashing the same problem as a loose edge?
Describe a tear, lifted edge or open junction accurately before agreeing how an existing flashing detail should be repaired.
Discuss what you have noticed
Include your postcode, the affected roof section and when the concern appears. The team will review the enquiry and confirm the next step, scope and availability.
Request a roofing assessment