Lead flashing failure is the single most common source of roof leaks on Lancing's older properties. Low-lying coastal strip position means both sea exposure from the south and Adur flood plain humidity from the east. We replace and repair lead to the correct specification for West Sussex conditions.
Adur flood plain humidity means felt underlay decay and timber batten rot run significantly faster than in elevated or sheltered locations. Lead flashing around chimneys, valleys and abutments is the highest-maintenance element of most roofs in Lancing. Low-lying coastal strip position means both sea exposure from the south and Adur flood plain humidity from the east. Some of the highest ambient moisture levels in West Sussex outside dedicated wetland areas. No elevation to deflect Channel weather — full south-westerly exposure at ground and roof level. We inspect and replace lead to the correct code and specification for local conditions.
Low-lying coastal strip position means both sea exposure from the south and Adur flood plain humidity from the east. Some of the highest ambient moisture levels in West Sussex outside dedicated wetland areas. No elevation to deflect Channel weather — full south-westerly exposure at ground and roof level. This means Brighton and East Sussex homeowners should inspect lead every 5 years rather than the 10-year interval that inland guidance suggests. Patching fails within 2-4 years in coastal conditions — full replacement is the right answer in most cases.
Code 4 lead (1.8mm) is standard for most inland applications. For exposed coastal positions — seafront properties, cliff-top locations, south-facing chimney stacks — code 5 lead (2.24mm) provides meaningfully longer service life. We specify code 5 as standard for exposed positions in Lancing.
Strip all existing lead. Clean masonry and tile surfaces. Dress new lead in sections no longer than 1.5m to allow thermal movement. Secure with lead tacks into correct mortar joints. Point all joints with lead mortar. Apply patination oil on completion to establish protective surface chemistry. Inspect from roof level and sign off.
| Step flashing replacement (per m) | £80 - £150 |
| Chimney apron flashing | £200 - £500 |
| Valley lead replacement (per m) | £100 - £180 |
| Full chimney flashing set | £400 - £900 |
| Lead flashing survey | Free |
“Lead around the chimney had been bodged twice before. Full replacement with code 5 lead — two years on and not a drop. Should have done it properly the first time.”
“Valley lead had corroded right through. Replaced the full valley, repointed the adjacent tiles and it looks and works perfectly.”
“Step flashing on a rear extension had lifted in the gales. Replaced and dressed correctly with tacks. Very clear explanation of why the old installation had failed.”
1930s-50s bungalows on South Lancing beach strip, 1960s-70s estate housing in North Lancing, Adur flood plain position. Concrete interlocking tile on bungalow strip, aged 50-80 years. Flat garage and bungalow sections with felt at or past end of life on most properties..
Low-lying coastal strip between the South Downs and sea. Combined sea exposure from south and Adur flood plain humidity from east..
Adur flood plain humidity means felt underlay and timber batten decay runs significantly faster than in elevated or sheltered locations. Flat sections on bungalows consistently fail sooner than equivalent inland properties..
Pricing note: GRP flat roofing is particularly cost-effective in Lancing — the high ambient moisture makes felt lifespan even shorter than elsewhere in the region..
Every job follows the same clear process — no surprises, no hidden costs, full communication throughout.
Roof-level inspection of all lead flashings — step, apron, valley, abutment. Salt corrosion assessment. Photographs of all findings.
We specify code 4 or 5 lead as appropriate to the position and exposure. We advise on patching vs full replacement — in coastal conditions, full replacement is almost always more cost-effective.
All existing lead removed. Masonry and tile surfaces cleaned. Any underlying mortar or tile damage repaired before lead installation.
New lead dressed in sections no longer than 1.5m. Fixed with lead tacks into correct mortar joints. All joints lapped and dressed. Patination oil applied on completion.
All lead work carries a written 10-year workmanship guarantee. Lead should not be the source of any future roof leak within that period.
Step flashing replacement costs £80-150 per linear metre. A full chimney flashing set (step, back and front aprons) costs £400-900 depending on chimney size. Valley lead costs £100-180 per metre. Free surveys and written quotes for all work.
Code 4 or 5 lead correctly installed lasts 30-50 years even in West Sussex's coastal conditions. The key is correct installation — sections short enough to move with thermal expansion, correctly secured with tacks, properly pointed.
In West Sussex's conditions, patching is a short-term measure. The surrounding lead has been subject to the same corrosion process and will fail within 2-4 years of any patch. Full replacement is more cost-effective over a 10-year horizon for most Lancing properties.
Damp patches near a chimney breast; white salt deposits (efflorescence) on the lead surface; visible lifting or separation of lead from brickwork; cracking or splitting at dressed edges; water staining on exterior walls below the chimney or abutment.
Age-related lead failure is usually excluded as a maintenance issue. Storm damage to lead flashing — where it has been displaced by high wind — is usually covered. We provide written reports that support insurance claims for storm-related damage.
Patination oil is applied after lead installation to establish the stable protective patina that prevents run-off staining on walls and tiles beneath. It's a standard part of our lead installation — included in all quotes.
We cover Lancing and the surrounding West Sussex area. Call 01273 973 996 to arrange a free survey.
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