Expert Leadwork And Flashing in Looe, Cornwall

Have you noticed a damp patch appearing on the ceiling near your chimney breast? More often than not, the culprit is failed lead flashing. Over time, the lead can crack or start to 'creep' away from the masonry, allowing water ingress to wreak havoc on your rafters and plasterwork. I provide comprehensive chimney repairs and repointing across Looe, focusing on creating a completely watertight seal. I work with everything from step flashings—those zig-zag patterns you see along the side of a chimney—to lead aprons and back gutters. By using high-quality milled lead, usually Code 4 for flashings and Code 5 for more demanding areas like valleys, I ensure your roof is ready for whatever the Cornish weather throws at it. I also apply patination oil to every new installation, which prevents that unsightly white carbonate staining and helps the lead age into a beautiful, professional grey finish.

Lead is a remarkably malleable material, but it requires a specific set of skills to handle properly. Many modern roofers rely on 'quick-fix' adhesives or sealants that simply do not last. I prefer the traditional approach. I use lead bossing to hand-shape the metal around complex corners and roof junctions without the need for joints. Where a joint is necessary, I use lead welding (often known as lead burning) to fuse the pieces together. This creates a seamless, incredibly strong barrier that is far superior to any stick-on alternative. Whether your home is a modern build or one of Looe's many heritage or listed properties, I have the experience to source the right materials and apply the correct techniques to maintain the character and integrity of your roof.

The valleys—the 'V' shaped channels where two roof slopes meet—are some of the most vulnerable parts of any structure. If these are poorly fitted or have started to perish, you are looking at a serious leak sooner rather than last. I specialise in installing and repairing lead valleys that channel water away efficiently and safely. I also look after lead soakers, which are the hidden bits of lead tucked under slates or tiles to provide extra protection at abutments. Because I am fully covered by public liability insurance, you can rest easy while I am working on these critical areas of your home. It is all about doing the job right the first time so you do not have to worry about the next big storm rolling in off the channel.

Looe is famous for its tall, characterful buildings, but they can be a nightmare to inspect. How do you know if your chimney leadwork is failing if you can't see it? To save you the immediate cost and hassle of scaffolding just for an inspection, I offer advanced drone roof surveys. Using high-resolution aerial imaging, I can spot cracked lead, slipped slates, or failing mortar from the safety of the ground. This allows me to provide you with a detailed, honest assessment of what work is actually needed. No guesswork, no hidden surprises—just clear photographic evidence and a straightforward, no-obligation quote for the repairs.