Don't Be Lead..

The title of this blog originated from an article I authored more than two decades ago, advocating for self-builders to explore alternative options to lead as the primary flashing material for roofing their homes.

The self-build market served as the initial entry point, providing direct access to customers. It was evident that roofing contractors and builders tended to opt for the familiar and traditional choice of lead, rather than exploring alternative options.

In 2004, my first self-built show, domestic roofing with the metal concept.

Lead was readily accessible for immediate use and could be conveniently shaped without the need for any specialized tools beyond those already available in their toolbox.

I anticipated the imminent prohibition of lead in roof construction, considering the discontinuation of lead usage in piping for water supply and the ban on lead in fresh water fishing. It seemed incongruous that while we had taken steps to eliminate lead from these areas, rainwater collected from pitched roofs continued to pass through lead, a substance known for its toxicity.

Looking ahead two decades, lead continues to be the preferred material of choice. The reason for this preference lies in the fact that while metal fabrication for roofing is common practice throughout the rest of Europe, it remains uncommon in the UK and Ireland. Finding a slater or tiler capable of fabricating Copper or Zinc to meet their daily on-site needs is still a rarity in this region. Simply put, the process is a too much of a hassle

Although there are fiber glass valley products available, they are susceptible to splitting and still necessitate the use of lead at the junctions, which renders them ineffective.

We required a product that resembled lead in appearance, could be installed similarly to lead, and was readily available at a similar cost.

Finally, we now have a product that surpasses all that lead offers ,even more.

Leadax is the first lead alternative in the world with the same properties as traditional lead and is not harmful to health or the environment.

I have just finished this project using Leadax. And the best part? It cost the customer only a fraction of the price , was eco-friendly - it literally didn't cost the earth!

Leadax, A traditional looking finish