Leaking Lead Valleys
Leaking Lead Valleys | Roof Repair | Roofing | Manchester
When water starts trickling through your ceiling or streaking down loft timbers, it’s usually a sign that the lead valleys on your roof have split, slipped or corroded. HEP’s specialist team pinpoints the fault fast, lifts tiles with care and re-beds fresh code-graded lead so your property stays watertight through Manchester’s fiercest downpours. Our heritage-trained roofers respect the character of period terraces as much as they value the clean lines of modern builds, blending traditional craftsmanship with laser-accurate leak detection for a dependable roof repair that lasts.
From first callout to final sweep-up, you’ll see why homeowners, landlords and local architects trust HEP for honest advice, transparent pricing and ten-year guarantees. We arrive when we say we will, photograph every stage for your peace of mind and leave your gutters, flashings and chimneys checked free of charge. Don’t let a leaking valley disrupt your life or damage your investment—book your roof repair today and enjoy the security of a solid, weather-tight roof tomorrow.
FAQs
What are the main causes of leaking lead valleys on roofs in Manchester?
Most leaks occur because the lead sheeting has split or cracked due to age-related fatigue, thermal movement, or improper installation. Manchester’s frequent rainfall, frost cycles and wind-driven debris accelerate deterioration. Blocked gutters surrounding the valley can also back-up water, forcing it under the lead. Finally, mortar in adjacent slate or tile courses can fail, allowing water to track beneath the lead flashing.
How can I tell if my lead valley is leaking?
Typical signs include damp patches or water staining on ceilings below the valley line, drips appearing during heavy rain, moss growth concentrated along the valley on the exterior, and visible cracks or lifting in the lead when inspected from a ladder. If you have a slate roof, slipped or missing slates alongside the valley often accompany lead failure. A professional roof survey with moisture-meter readings will confirm the source of the leak.
Does the entire roof need replacing, or can just the valley be repaired?
In most cases only the lead valley and the immediately adjacent slates or tiles need attention. We remove the old lead, inspect the valley boards, replace any rotten timber, and install new Code 4 or Code 5 lead with correct laps, welts and expansion joints. The surrounding roof covering is then reinstated. Full roof replacement is only recommended if the general roof covering is already at the end of its service life.
How long does it take to repair or replace a lead valley?
A straightforward single-valley replacement on a typical two-storey Manchester terrace or semi usually takes 1 day, including scaffold setup, removal of old lead, timber checks, fitting new lead and reinstating slates/tiles. Complex roofs, multiple valleys or hidden structural damage can extend the job to 2-3 days. We provide a precise schedule after our on-site inspection.
Can lead valley repairs be carried out in bad weather?
Light showers aren’t normally a problem, but persistent rain, high winds or freezing temperatures can compromise safe access and proper adhesion of underlays and sealants. For your protection and ours, we schedule work during a stable forecast and always carry temporary tarpaulins so your roof is watertight if conditions turn suddenly—a common occurrence in Greater Manchester.
What does it cost to repair a leaking lead valley in Manchester?
Costs vary with roof height, access requirements, valley length and lead code (thickness). As a ballpark, a standard 1.5-metre valley on a two-storey property with scaffold access typically ranges from £450 to £650 + VAT. Complex roofs, longer valleys or multiple repairs increase the price. All quotes we provide are fixed-price and include scaffold, materials, waste removal, lead recycling and a 10-year workmanship guarantee.