Guide

Lead vs Flashband Flashing

Code 4/5 lead lasts 50+ years. Flashband (bituminous tape) lasts 3–8 years. Lead costs more, but a re-flash every five years is a false economy. We use lead by default and only flashband on temporary repairs.

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Why this matters

Most roof failures we attend could have been avoided by acting on the warning signs six months earlier. The cost of acting early is usually 10–20% of the cost of acting after the leak.

What to do next

Book a free survey if any of the above sounds like your roof. No obligation, no high-pressure follow-up.

When each material is the right answer

Lead is the right answer for almost every permanent flashing: chimney aprons, valley linings, abutments against walls, and anywhere water runs against brickwork. It is worked by hand into the shape of the joint and, in code 4 or 5, outlives the roof covering around it. Flashband has one legitimate use — a temporary weather seal to stop water getting in while a proper repair is planned, or on a structure nearing the end of its life. What we will not do is pass flashband off as a permanent fix: if a quote from us says flashing, it means lead, chased into the wall and pointed, not tape stuck to the surface.

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FAQs

Is this advice impartial?+

We're a working roofer, so take it with the bias that implies — but we make our money on quality long-term work, not on selling unnecessary replacements.

How do I know if my flashing is lead or tape?+

Lead is a smooth grey metal sheet dressed into a slot in the mortar. Flashband looks like black or grey sticky tape sitting on the surface, often with edges lifting after a few summers. If you are unsure, we can tell you from a photo.

Is lead worth the extra cost?+

On anything you plan to keep, yes. Lead costs more on the day but lasts 50 years or more; tape typically needs replacing every 3 to 8 years, and each replacement costs another call-out.

Need Roofing Work You Can Rely On?

Contact Stoker Property Solutions for new roofs, flat roofing, repairs and maintenance across Newcastle, Sunderland and the wider North East.

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