Leadwork Specialists in Cambridgeshire
Leadwork protects the junctions where a roof is most vulnerable. DJW Roofing & Leadwork Ltd specialises in hand-dressed lead flashings, soakers, valleys, chimneys, ridges and dormers across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Lincolnshire and North London.
Leadwork protects the junctions where a roof is most vulnerable. DJW Roofing & Leadwork Ltd specialises in hand-dressed lead flashings, soakers, valleys, chimneys, ridges and dormers across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Lincolnshire and North London. Based in Littleport, Ely, Danny brings 15 years’ roofing experience and a practical understanding of how water moves around these details. We start with a free inspection and no-obligation quote, looking at the condition of the existing lead and the surrounding roof. The right answer may be a focused repair or properly specified renewal, not simply a layer of sealant over the problem.
Removing failing lead and examining the junction
Old lead is removed so the underlying detail can be checked. A split flashing might be the visible fault, but its cause can include poor fixing, movement or an unsuitable arrangement of joints. The adjacent tiles, masonry and supporting surfaces matter too. Renewing lead without understanding the junction can repeat the original problem. Our approach looks at how the new work will meet the existing roof, shed water and remain secure, rather than treating every flashing as an identical strip of metal.
Chased properly into brickwork
The brick line is chased to the correct depth and width for the detail, providing a secure position for the lead. A shallow groove or poorly prepared joint can leave a flashing vulnerable to pulling away or admitting rain. The chase must suit the masonry rather than damage it unnecessarily. At stepped roof-to-wall junctions and chimneys, the changing roof line is followed carefully. This preparation is a small part of the visible finish but an important part of making the leadwork function properly.
A straight edge and a lead dresser
Lead is shaped by hand with a straight edge and lead dresser. These tools help form clean folds, changes of direction and close-fitting profiles around the roof detail. The aim is to shape the material deliberately, not stretch or force it into place without considering movement. Correct lead code, section sizes and support are important because lead expands and contracts with temperature. Good handwork is therefore both practical and visual: the finish looks ordered because the material has been formed to suit its job.
Step flashings, soakers, valleys and chimneys
Step flashings protect sloping roof-to-wall junctions, while soakers work with the courses of tiles or slates underneath. Chimney flashings must direct water around the stack, including the higher side where runoff arrives. Valleys collect water from adjoining roof slopes and need the right support, joint arrangement and clear drainage route. These details have different demands and should not be reduced to one generic method. We assess the complete junction and include related roofing repairs where needed to make the leadwork connect properly with the surrounding materials.
Lead ridges, dormers and long-term performance
Ridges and dormers introduce further folds, upstands and changes in water direction. Suitable detailing gives the lead room to move while keeping vulnerable junctions protected. Correctly installed lead can provide 60–100 years of service, but that is a material lifespan expectation, not a promise that every roof or repair has a fixed lifetime. Exposure, design and maintenance still matter. DJW is fully insured and all work is guaranteed. The free inspection is the opportunity to discuss the actual condition, proposed scope and finishing details for your roof.
How we work.
A free inspection
We look at your roof carefully and explain what we find.
An honest written quote
Clear advice and a no-obligation quote. Repair before replace, where possible.
Careful, tidy work
Proper preparation, attention to the details and a daily tidy-up.
Work guaranteed
Fully insured. All work guaranteed. A roof finished properly.
Specialist leadwork
FAQs.
What leadwork do you carry out?
Step and chimney flashings, soakers, valleys, lead ridges and dormer details are included. Each junction is assessed to choose the right form and specification.
How long can leadwork last?
Properly specified and installed leadwork can last 60–100 years. The particular roof detail, exposure and maintenance influence performance; this is not a fixed guarantee term.
Why is chasing the brickwork important?
The correctly prepared chase holds the flashing within the masonry. Its depth and width need to suit the detail so the lead is secure without unnecessary damage to the brickwork.
Can damaged lead be repaired locally?
Sometimes. We inspect the condition, location and cause of damage before advising whether repair or renewal makes sense. A cosmetic patch is not always an appropriate lasting solution.
Do you work alongside roof repairs?
Yes. Leadwork and surrounding tiles, slates or valleys are assessed together. That helps ensure the new detail works with the rest of the roof rather than leaving an adjacent fault unresolved.
Related services.
Areas we cover.
Good work starts
with honest advice.
Free roof inspections. Free no-obligation quotes. Just the work your roof actually needs.
07862 885143Klarna.Klarna availableBased in Littleport, Ely.
Covering Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Lincolnshire and North London.
Open 24 hours, 7 days.