Lead is a durable option when it comes to your roofing, however, there have been more concerns about lead roof flashing over recent years. It’s quite costly to maintain, and due to this, homeowners are looking for new alternatives to lead flashing. Keep reading as we share the best roofing options for anyone who has previously used lead and how our Bradford roof repairs team can help with this task.
What is Lead Flashing?
Before we go any further, let’s take a look at the topic of lead flashing. Lead roof flashing is a critical part of any roof it is used on, and it prevents water from passing through a joint into your building. Over the past years, the price of lead has continued to increase. Unfortunately, this has led to the theft of lead slates and flashing from homes, which thieves then work to resell. While this might seem unbelievable to some people, buildings such as churches are constantly attacked in this way, which is why they are now looking for alternatives to lead flashing. The good news is that there are some very effective options on the market now, all of which offer the same uses and benefits as lead flashing.
Lead flashing alternatives can still be used within roofing and pipework on both commercial and domestic properties. This offers a lower-cost solution that is often quicker to install. Let’s take a look at some options you’ll find when considering working with local roofers in the future.
Lead Alternatives for Bradford Roof Repairs
A lead alternative offers a product that has similar properties and benefits to lead. These products are created in rolls and can offer leadwork roofing without the cost and concerns associated with this product. Instead of worrying about your building being burgled, you’ll now have an affordable solution that will still protect your home from the wet weather we experience in the UK. The great thing about this type of lead for roofing is that it still looks just like lead. You’ll be able to pick from a range of lead roofing thicknesses, offering you the finish you desire for your home or workplace.
Lead roofing in Bradford is now often made from modified bitumen, which is then set around a metal grid. This offers the support the material needs and will ensure it is rigid yet malleable for any roofers in Bradford to use. Bitumen looks just like lead and can easily be moved into any position. Of course, we always work with the country’s top suppliers to ensure the quality is as it should be. Each brand will have a slightly different product, and we’ll strive to find the one that fits your needs best. You might choose a self-adhesive product for even quicker installation, which can also save you money on labour as well.
The Benefits of Lead Alternatives
As we shared above, the number one reason to consider lead alternatives is to reduce the chance of theft. There’s no scrap value for a lead alternative product, so thieves will be detracted from attacking your building if you choose this solution in the future. While you might not believe this type of theft takes place, sadly, it’s a profitable market for thieves to this day. This is why many buildings put signs on the top of them to state there’s no lead in the roof.
While detracting thieves is the top reason to choose lead roofing alternatives, you’ll also find the upfront cost of this project is much lower. In fact, it can be up to 50% cheaper than installing real lead, which is why churches and commercial buildings are opting for this solution more and more. Many homeowners don’t really know why they would choose lead for their roof, so there’s no reason for them to switch to an alternative material instead. It’s also so much quicker and easier to install, as lead is one of the most challenging materials to work with. This saves you money on labour and installation, as fewer tools and team members are needed for the work.
Our team of roofers in Bradford will be more than happy to work with you to find the right solution for your upcoming roof repair or replacement. While lead is an incredible material to work with for roofs, there are so many risks and costs associated with this material. For that reason, we recommend checking out lead alternative products, which will be a great solution for buildings of any shape and size. If you are looking to discover your options for your next roofing project, contact our team today. We’ll be happy to share with you the solutions on offer for your building and work with you to protect your home or workplace for many years to come.
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