ALTERNATIVES TO LEAD ROOFING MATERIALS

For many years, lead has been the flashing material of choice for roofers seeking proven protection and a smart, clean finish to their work. However, homeowners and contractors alike have been forced to explore viable lead alternatives in recent years thanks to escalating costs, growing cases of theft and increasing concerns around the toxicity of these products.

We stock lead-free replacement roof flashing that can be used in place of actual lead in most contemporary roofing applications. Our lead flashing alternatives offer many of the benefits of lead materials, without the high price points and potential hazards. Learn more about these innovative products here and order great value lead flashing alternative directly from one of the UK’s leading roofing supplies merchants!

These synthetic lead alternatives are more lightweight than their traditional counterparts, meaning they are typically easier to shape and safer to handle during installation. They are suitable for use with brickwork, blockwork and all manner of common roofing materials like slate, clay and concrete – and they can even be incorporated into roof tile ventilation systems to better protect these structures from the elements. Lead flashing alternatives are also available in a variety of colours to help you maintain your property’s aesthetics without resorting to more environmentally damaging lead products.

FAQ - Frequently asked Questions about Lead Alternatives

What are lead alternative flashings?

Lead alternatives (or lead replacement flashings) are synthetic flashing materials engineered to mimic the flexibility, appearance, and weatherproofing qualities of traditional milled lead. Products like Cromar Leadax and Cromar Instead of Lead provide a lightweight, non-toxic, and non-scrap-value solution for waterproofing roof abutments, chimneys, valleys, and dormers.

How does Cromar Leadax differ from "Cromar Instead of Lead"?

Cromar Leadax: The world's first lead alternative with the same look and feel as traditional lead. Made from recycled PVB (polyvinyl butyral) with an expanded aluminium mesh core, it can be dressed and shaped like traditional lead while being 75% lighter.
Cromar Instead of Lead: A self-adhesive, aluminum mesh-reinforced polyisobutylene (PIB) flashing roll. It features a fully adhesive backing covered by a split release foil, making installation exceptionally quick for abutments, chimneys, and wall joints.

Why should I choose a lead alternative over traditional milled lead?

Zero Scrap Value: Completely eliminates the risk of lead theft from roofs.
Health & Safety: Non-toxic and safe to handle without protective gear or risk of heavy-metal contamination.
Faster Installation: Up to 50% faster to fit than traditional lead due to lighter weight and self-adhesive or flexible properties.
Environmentally Friendly: Made without toxic heavy metals and often incorporates recycled materials.

Do I need special tools or patination oil to install Leadax or "Instead of Lead"?

A: No special tools or patination oils are required:
You can cut the rolls easily using standard utility knives or shears.
Dressing can be done using a standard lead dresser, wooden mallet, or roller.
Patination oil is not required, as synthetic flashings do not oxidize or bleed.

Can lead alternatives be dressed into deeply contoured roof tiles?

Yes. Both Cromar Leadax and Instead of Lead contain internal aluminium mesh reinforcement that allows them to stretch and form neatly into deep tile profiles (such as Double Roman or Pantiles) without cracking or springing back.

What roll widths are available at The Roofing Merchant?

We stock a wide range of widths to suit everything from simple apron flashings to wide valley work:

Cromar Instead of Lead (5m rolls): 150mm, 250mm, and 300mm.
Cromar Leadax (6m rolls): 150mm, 300mm, 450mm, 600mm, and 1000mm.