Lead Flashing Alternatives | Lead Alternative | Roof | Lead Flashing

Lead Flashing Alternatives

Alternative lead flashing is becoming increasingly popular in the roofing industry, with more and more projects choosing lead alternatives over traditional lead. Lead alternatives are used in situations where theft may be an issue, or when a project needs to move faster than possible with genuine lead. Lead-free flashing is easily cut with sharp scissors and can be installed in around half the time it takes to do so using traditional lead, making it ideal for use on flat roofs where access can be restricted. Not only that, but brands offer terracotta and black colourings that can match the tiles of existing roofing, as well as the signature grey. Additionally, there is an extensive range of roll widths, lengths and colours available for any roofing project.

Roof Flashing And its Types:

Flashing is a flat, thin piece of metal used to help waterproof the edges and protrusions of roofing systems. It is typically fixed over the underlayment, underneath the shingles on sloped roofs, or at the top of flat roofs. By forming an impervious barrier between vulnerable seams and joints, flashing prevents water from entering gaps or cracks in a roof. This is especially important for flat roofs, which are prone to water leakage since runoff is not carried away efficiently by gravity. The use of roof flashing ensures that these surfaces remain sealed off from water and moisture in all conditions, providing lasting protection for your home.

Types:

Step Flashing

Step flashing is an essential roof system preventative measure in order to avoid water damage at the roof-to-wall joint. It involves overlaying individual metal pieces (usually 4” x 4” x 8”) into the roof material that lead up to a flat wall, as opposed to a sloped roof. The metal pieces are designed to be woven tightly together and form a unified line of roof and floor protection. The metal helps eliminate gaps which would ultimately allow water to penetrate the roof-to-wall joint and cause irreparable damage over time. Step flashing is a reliable and cost-effective approach for roofing installation that ensures your roof remains safe from water infiltration.

Headwall Flashing

Headwall flashing is an essential roofing component which helps protect the roof from water infiltration when the roof section meets a horizontal vertical headwall. It is made from weatherproof and corrosion resistant "L" shaped metal, typically 10 feet in length and cut to custom-fit the roof section for ultimate roof protection. Lead roofing is suited for flat roofs since it provides an excellent waterproof cure as opposed to tiles that only provide a level of resistance. Flashing also helps ensure proper roof ventilation. 

Counter Flashing

Counter flashing is an essential component of flat roofing and window installations, providing crucial flashings to ensure water tightness. It requires precision and skill to securely fasten lead flashings into walls with mortar or sealants, such as brick, stone, and stucco, where the metal cannot be tucked into the wall itself. Further secure waterproof protection for these structures can also be provided with alternative's like carpentry and replacing damaged wood around windows or securing existing counters at steps. 

Chimney and Skylight Flashing

Chimneys and skylights are vulnerable areas on any roof that require extra attention during the roof installation process. Headwall and step flashing can usually secure them, but if they are larger or irregularly shaped, then custom-cut sheet metal may be employed. Flexible lead replacement can also be used to increase the thickness of the flanges, creating a better seal. Nevertheless, all of these processes must be completed with great care to ensure a secure fit and prevent potential leaks or other damage.

What is most preferable Lead Alternative?

Steel & Tin

Steel is an increasingly popular choice for lead alternative flashing due to the many benefits it provides. It is relatively heavy, making it great for roof kits and construction projects that require durability and strength. Additionally, it does not have the negative health impacts associated with lead, making it even more attractive as a lead replacement. In fact, choosing steel is often seen as a safe choice for use in projects that need to meet certain codes. 

Tungsten

Tungsten weights, by nature, have some drawbacks when compared to traditional lead weights for split shotting. Although tungsten is a stronger material, it can also be more brittle, leading to broken weights if pinched too hard. Part of this is due to lackluster purity in many tungsten products that incorporate other alloys like nickel. 

Bismuth 

Bismuth is another non-toxic alternative that is often found in a shot form.This style of weight is popular among fly anglers and steelhead fisherman who use the slinky to drift on the bottom.

CLay

Clay sinkers offer anglers an alternative to traditional metal or plastic weights, and are popular for their natural finish. Unlike their metal and plastic counterparts, clay sinkers require additional elements when added to a line, as there is no crimping available. Clay weights have even become the go-to option for eco-conscious anglers who prioritize sustainability and river health. 

Leadax - the new generation of Lead alternatives

Leadax is a great lead alternative that is both easy to use and wallet-friendly. It can be used in any of the same ways lead is used, such as cavity walls and chimneys, without sacrificing any of lead's benefits. It also offers a safe alternative since it does not have lead's negative health and environmental concerns. 

Lead Alternatives in Roofing work

Lead flashing is a material that has been trusted for years to perform an important role in roofing due to its unique properties. However, with the increasing availability of cost effective alternatives, lead is no longer the only option available for such projects. Many materials now exist on the market which offer excellent performance benefits compared to traditional lead flashings, typically at a fraction of the cost.

The cost of lead has skyrocketed over recent years and made having a roof repaired or replaced a costly job if stuck with traditional lead work. Fortunately, code approved flat roof alternatives are available now that can reduce costs to less than half the price of lead, making them an attractive option. In addition to cost savings, these alternatives also benefit from technical advances in materials that make them journeymen-friendly to install and provide long-term reliability.