Leadwork is one of the most vital yet often overlooked elements of your roof. Found around chimneys, valleys, and roof junctions, lead prevents water from penetrating vulnerable areas and ensures your home stays watertight. When leadwork fails, leaks and water damage can quickly follow. Knowing when to book a professional inspection is essential to prevent costly repairs later.
At Swanmore Roofing Repairs, we help homeowners in Swanmore, Hampshire protect their properties with expert leadwork assessments and repairs. Here are seven key times you should arrange an inspection.
1. After Severe Weather
Heavy rain, high winds, and storms can loosen or damage lead flashings. Even small movements can create gaps where water can enter. A post-storm inspection ensures that any damage is spotted early before leaks cause internal problems.
2. If You Notice Water Stains Indoors
Watermarks on ceilings or walls often indicate that moisture is entering your property through a compromised roof. Damaged or slipped leadwork around chimneys or valleys is a common culprit, and a timely inspection can prevent further deterioration.
3. Following Roof Repairs or Alterations
Any work on your roof—such as tile replacements, chimney repairs, or skylight installations—can disturb the surrounding leadwork. Booking an inspection afterwards ensures that it is properly seated, sealed, and free from accidental damage.
4. When Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old
Lead is durable, but like all roofing materials, it can deteriorate over time due to expansion, contraction, and weather exposure. Older roofs benefit from routine inspections to catch fatigue, splits, or corrosion before failure occurs.
5. If You Spot Visible Damage
From the ground, you might notice lifted lead, cracked seams, or staining on nearby tiles. Any visible sign of wear is a clear signal to arrange a professional leadwork inspection to assess the extent of the problem.
6. Before Buying or Selling a Property
A roof survey, including leadwork inspection, is a smart step in any property transaction. It identifies hidden issues that could affect the sale, giving buyers peace of mind and helping sellers address problems before they become negotiating points.
7. As Part of Regular Roof Maintenance
Even without visible problems, scheduling leadwork inspections every few years is good practice. Preventative checks help extend the life of your roof, reduce the risk of leaks, and maintain the structural integrity of your property.
Conclusion
Leadwork plays a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage, yet problems often go unnoticed until a leak occurs. By booking inspections after storms, during property transactions, or as part of routine maintenance, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your roof in excellent condition.
For professional leadwork inspections and repairs in Swanmore, Hampshire, contact Swanmore Roofing Repairs. Our experienced team ensures your roof remains watertight and your home fully protected.
Call us on: 01489 357 099
Click here to find out more about Swanmore Roofing Repairs
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your roofing needs
