Chimney Repair Theale

Leadwork involves using lead sheets as a building material. It is commonly used in roofing and construction to create waterproof seals around roof features like chimneys, valleys and flashings.

Chimney flashing is normally the leadwork or roof flashing that creates a waterproof seal to protect your chimney and roof from water damage and penetration.

Yes, leadwork may require occasional maintenance. Regular inspections, ideally every 2-3 years, can help identify issues such as splits, corrosion or worn fixings. Timely maintenance can prevent more significant problems.

Leadwork can often be repaired if the damage is not extensive. Professional leadwork specialists can weld, patch or rework lead to restore its integrity. Replacement is considered when the damage is beyond repair.

When a chimney develops damaged joints, allowing moisture entry, it is recommended to remove the damaged portions and replace them with proper materials. This repair is known as repointing.

Also known as ‘benching’, chimney flaunching is a term that refers to the strong mortar mix that holds your chimney pots in place. The flaunching on your chimney provides a tough waterproof barrier to keep the interior of your chimney and your home dry.

Professional roofers or roofing contractors have the necessary experience to repoint your chimney properly so it will last many more years. If you do this early enough, the repairs will be minor, and it will simply be a matter of pulling out the old mortar and putting in the new.

Why is lead a popular choice for roofing and flashing applications?

If you notice that the mortar on your chimney has changed colour, it is a sign that the mortar and bricks are old and need repointing. If the mortar has started to flake or chip off, this can also mean that the mortar has gone brittle and become weak.

While lead is a durable material, there are concerns about environmental and health impacts. However, leadwork in roofing and construction is generally considered safe, as it remains stable and sealed, preventing lead exposure.

Over time, the bricks and mortar joints in most chimneys begin to deteriorate. Unfortunately, chimney deterioration is a natural process due to exposure to the elements, such as rain, snow, ice and winds. These elements can impact the chimney from all directions, so deterioration is often inevitable.