Lead roofing is a common building material that has been used for decades however in recent years many people have had concerns over its safety. Similar uses of lead such as lead piping and lead paint have been proven to cause serious health issues, especially in children where it can stunt their development.

But is lead roofing dangerous?

Here at Environ, as one of the top London roofing companies we’ve decided to lend our weight to the discussion in order to clear up the misconceptions and help you make a decision about the best materials to use in your home.

Hazardous Lead Exposure

There’s no doubt about the fact that lead is toxic to humans when inhaled or consumed. This is particularly true when it’s in a particulate form, making lead dust incredibly dangerous.

That being said, not all lead roofing is inherently dangerous if installed correctly. The most important step is to ensure that there’s no risk of contamination to the water supply. It’s also now quite common to use a coating to further minimise the potential for harm.

The Benefits of Lead Roofing

If lead is so dangerous, you might be thinking, then why use it at all? Why take the risk?

Well, the truth is that when handled properly the risk is relatively low. Meanwhile, lead is an incredibly useful building material. Lead is both very strong and very malleable, making it easy to work with and long-lasting.

It’s completely waterproof and extremely durable in harsh weather conditions. Many heritage buildings have lead roofing that’s lasted over a hundred years.

Should You Use Lead Roofing

Although it is safe to use lead roofing so long as it's installed by a diligent professional, it’s not always the right material for the job.

Keep in mind that every roof is slightly different and that depends a lot on the location of the building as well as the building itself. Some buildings are taller, some roofs have steeper inclines. Some buildings have attics while others don’t. With so many factors going into your decision, the best thing you can do is always make sure you ask an expert with knowledge and experience.

For the best in London roofing services, get in touch with Environ Roofing by emailing us at info@environroofingservices.co.uk or calling 020 3535 6957. Our friendly and helpful team will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

If you opt for a flat roof anywhere on your property, remember that it comes with a need for proper maintenance. Low-slope roofing London-wide should be checked every six months or so, or after spells of bad weather, to spot any signs of damage. No matter how small, these should be addressed before they escalate. Remove any debris (leaves, twigs and so on) regularly to avoid these blocking the gutters and allowing water to pool and stand on the roof.

If there are trees in the close vicinity, keep them cut back to reduce the amount of foliage that falls on your flat roof. And check internally for signs of moisture, dampness or water damage on a regular basis. Spotting problems early means resolving them will be cheaper in the long run.

Building a flat roof can be done in three ways. The simplest and most cost-effective choice for levelled roofing London-wide is to construct a warm roof where a roofing membrane is placed over the insulation that keeps the timber structure warm. Another option is to create a cold roof where insulation is positioned between the rafters under the ply roof covering. This is commonly applied to flat-roofed extensions.

The third method is the hybrid roof that contains diverse elements. Their designs require a gap of ventilation above a warm roof to prevent excess moisture within the roof structure.

If you’re looking for flat roofing local contractors, don’t just select the first firm you come across. Find a roofing company that’s been in business for a while and can demonstrate a good track record in installing, repairing, and replacing flat roofs specifically. Ask for recommendations from your own network or from a local trade association. If you need refurbishment work done to 50% or more of your roof, you’ll need a roofing contractor who can self-certify their work under the Competent Person Scheme. Otherwise, the Building Control department at your local authority will need to approve the job before it begins.

Ask whether they are covered by liability insurance and how long they’ll guarantee the work they will carry out. And never just opt for the cheapest quote unless you’re quite sure they’re the best company for the job. You can’t afford to compromise on your roof as the structural integrity of your property depends on it.

Ensuring your flat roof will comply with building regulations before installation can save property owners time, money and stress. First, the roof must have a slope of around 1:80, with water draining away to one or two roof edges. Waterproofing must be extended up to the adjacent walls with at least 150 mm from the surface of the roof.

Contractors must install ventilation in cold roofs. For warm roofs, the deck must be bonded with a VCL. The roof should have the capacity to withstand strong winds and be sturdy enough to take an individual’s weight. Finally, check whether planning permission is needed. Typically, this is only required if you live in a conservation area or a listed building, or are making significant changes to an existing roof.

If you’re looking for top roofing solutions at competitive rates, check out our range of roofing services at Environ Roofing Company London. To get started, call one of our representatives today!