Chimney Flashing Inspection and Cleaning

Lead flashings around chimneys are the leading cause of roof leaks on Nottingham properties. Inspection and re-bedding pay back many times their cost by preventing damp damage to internal walls and chimney breasts.

Why chimneys leak first

The junction between a chimney stack and the roof slope is the hardest weathertight detail on most roofs. Lead flashing forms the primary barrier, dressed into the tile courses and up against the brickwork.

Over time three things go wrong: the lead can crack from thermal expansion, the mortar pointing above the flashing can wash out, and the lead can lift where fixings loosen. Any of the three creates a water path.

What to look for

Visible warning signs to check during any roof survey:

• Cracked or split lead — often at internal corners
• Missing or loose pointing above the flashing line
• White salt deposits on brickwork below the chimney
• Damp patches on chimney breast walls inside
• Vegetation growth in the chimney/roof junction

Typical remedial work

Straightforward re-pointing costs £150–£300. Full flashing replacement runs £400–£900 depending on chimney size and access. Both are dramatically cheaper than the internal damp repairs a neglected chimney junction eventually forces.

Combining with a roof clean

Booking flashing work at the same time as a scheduled roof clean saves the access-equipment mobilisation cost twice. It's the natural moment to catch minor issues before they escalate.

Get a free Nottingham roof quote

If you'd like a fixed-price quote for your Nottingham property, request a free roof inspection using the form on this page — we'll typically respond within one working day. Every quote is written, fully insured and includes gutter clearance as standard.

Frequently asked questions