The alternatives to lead flashing explained

Thanks to its durability and malleability, lead flashing has been used for centuries to weatherproof roofs. Its ability to form a long-lasting seal around complex roof junctions, such as abutments, valleys, dormers, chimneys and roof windows, means that lead flashing is often found on many buildings, particularly heritage properties, such as old homes, churches and schools.

However towards the end of the 20th Century, concerns over cost, sustainability, health risks and security have resulted in the development of lead flashing alternatives.In this blog, we’ll discuss the different types of lead flashing alternatives, and how products like Marley’s FlexFast Lead Replacement Roll can provide a reliable and safe option for today’s roofing projects.

Why choose a lead flashing alternative?

While lead performs well and can last for decades, the following points highlight some of the common drawbacks which should be considered:

• It’s heavy – Lead is dense, weighing on average 11.3g per cm³. Lead adds more weight to a roof and is more difficult to transport, handle and install.
• It’s toxic – Lead is a hazardous material to handle, cut and dispose of, with installers at risk of exposure to harmful residues. Gloves, masks, protective eyewear and respiratory equipment are typically recommended during installation.
• It requires specialist skills – Lead flashing must be carefully shaped and fixed using traditional techniques, requiring specialist skills and experience to get it right. As skilled lead workers become harder to find, installation costs and project lead times are increasing.
• It’s expensive – While the cost of installation can be high, so can the cost of materials. Lead is one of the most expensive flashing materials on the market.
• It’s a security risk – Because of lead’s high value as a scrap metal, lead flashing is a common target for theft.

Opting for lead flashing alternatives can help to minimise these concerns, while delivering a weatherproof, long-lasting finish.

The benefits of lead flashing alternatives

Using an alternative to lead flashing can bring several advantages to a project, whether it’s a new build or refurbishment:

• Cost savings – Many lead flashing alternatives are easier to install and can be around 50% cheaper than lead, leading to significant cost savings.
• Improved safety – Since lead flashing substitutes use lightweight, non-toxic materials, they help to reduce health and safety risks on site.
• Faster installation –Installation is often quicker and simpler.
• Reduced risk of theft – Lead flashing alternatives typically have no scrap value, making them less attractive to thieves.
  
  

What are the alternatives to lead flashing?

Lead flashing alternatives are typically available pre-formed or supplied as rolls and may include:

• Metal - most commonly aluminium, but also available in zinc, copper or steel.
• Modified bitumen reinforced with an internal mesh or metal grid.
• Combined EPDM and metal hybrid products that combine flexibility, strength and a self-adhesive layer.

These products are designed to mimic the appearance of lead while offering a safer, lighter and more convenient installation process. Other benefits may include:

• Malleability and shape retention.
• Self-adhesive layers for quick application and security.
• Lightweight handling and easy cutting with basic tools.
• Choice of finishes and widths to suit the project.

Marley’s FlexFast Lead Replacement Roll is a hybrid flashing that combines layers of aluminium and butyl adhesive for excellent durability and bond strength.

Phil Wallis, technical manager at Marley, explains that FlexFast is flexible and stretchable, with up to 60% elasticity: “FlexFast Lead Replacement Roll can be moulded by hand to fit roof contours, providing a long lasting and watertight seal easily,” he says, adding: “It’s also available in different widths to suit various applications and delivers strong UV and weather resistance for long-term performance.”

Phil also notes that, while not a direct alternative to lead flashing, Marley’s range of dry-fix systems can also help create waterproof roof junctions. “Products such as our dry-fix valleys, soakers, dry verge systems, bonding gutters and ventilated abutment systems, all work together as part of our complete roofing system, helping to ensure long-term weather protection.”

Lead flashing alternatives from Marley

Whether you’re working on a new-build project or a refurbishment, Marley FlexFast Lead Replacement Roll offers a reliable, cost-effective and easy-to-install alternative to lead flashing.

As part of Marley’s complete pitched roofing system, which includes clay and concrete roofing tiles, underlays, dry fix accessories and the Marley SolarTile ® – FlexFast helps deliver a reliable and high-performing solution.

If you are interested in using FlexFast Lead Replacement Roll on your next project use our local stockist finder, or buy it online at Marley Direct.