A lead roll is a round or semi-circular lead strip used to create a watertight joint between lead sheets or between lead and another roofing material. The roll is soldered or welted over the seam, preventing rainwater from penetrating the connection.
Function
- Waterproofing — the rounded profile directs water over the joint so it cannot creep into the seam
- Movement allowance — lead expands and contracts with temperature changes. The roll provides enough flexibility to accommodate this thermal movement without cracking
Application
Lead rolls are found in various leadwork situations:
- Roof abutments — where a roof meets a wall or chimney
- Roof gutters — at joints between lead sheets in a gutter
- Valley gutters — the seam in the leadwork of valley gutters
- Sills and weatherings — protection at window and door frame junctions
Forms
- Full roll — a fully round strip soldered over the joint
- Half roll — a semi-circular strip that lies flat
- Upstand roll — a roll that stands vertically on a horizontal lead surface
Related terms
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