Making sure that your roof is fully protected from everything that weather has to throw at it is easier said than done. While there have been plenty of moves in roofing protection over the years which have done a great job in keeping everything protected and waterproof, the way in which we install roofs and help to keep properties and premises clean and dry has evolved massively over the past few decades. One of the most effective forms of roof protection in the past was lead flashing – but, even now, it’s not hard to see why an alternative option needs to be sought out.
Lead is massively weather-resistant – it’s remarkably hardy and can withstand everything the world can give it for up to a century – it’s not hard to understand why roofing maintenance of old made such a point of bringing lead flashing in as a staple enhancement. In the past, strips of lead were used to essentially help and seal roofs together. Think of it as effectively patching up the nooks and crannies – especially worthwhile when it comes to pitched roofing and roofs which are beyond the typical installation you might see in the suburbs. However, it’s no surprise to see lead flashing here and there – but as time has worn on, our dependency on lead has taken us down a path we need to turn back from.
Despite lead flashing having been massively effective in the past, it is more than time to start looking at your existing roofing and to consider whether or not it is worthwhile keeping the sealing you have in place up and running for the years to come. Lead is reliable to a point – but it can get split if it is installed with certain walling and material – as for lead to expand properly, it needs to be set up with as much flexibility as openly possible. Beyond this, lead is still massively valuable – making it a viable invitation for intruders and thieves.
Fibreglass is a great substitute!Here at Merlin, we of course specialise in fibreglass – and while we largely employ the material to create roofing from scratch, we also use GRP fibreglass to effectively replace lead flashing of old. Fibreglass is practical, weather resistant and easy to install and manipulate – making it ideal not only for roofers, but also for homeowners. What’s more, it won’t develop the cracks you risk with lead flashing – and we deliver all of our fibreglass with a 20-year guarantee, meaning we’re confident you won’t need to replace or maintain your flashing or roofing within this time. Fibreglass will generally survive for much longer – but you will get at least two decades of use without the need for direct intervention.
If you are in need of lead flashing replacement or if you are concerned that your home may be at risk from incoming water or unwanted intrusion, call Merlin Fibreglass Flat Roofing today on 0800 3118 262 or email us via web form – and we will set you up with a quote you can rely on!
