Code 3 Lead
Code 4 Lead
Code 5 Lead
Code 6 Lead
Code 4 Lead 3m Rolls
Code 4 lead 3m rolls are the industry standard for general flashing work, widely used for aprons, stepped flashings and exposed roofing details where durability and ease of forming are essential.
The 3 metre roll format offers easy handling on site, making it ideal for cutting flashing lengths, dressing into masonry joints and forming around chimneys and abutments. For longer runs or reduced joints, compare with Code 4 6m rolls.
Aprons & abutments
Easy to handle
Rolled Lead Sheet Category
Code 4 Lead — Versatile Rolled Lead Sheet for Flashings, Aprons & General Roofing Details
Approx. mass 20.4 kg/m²
Trade-ready widths
General-purpose leadwork
Ideal for flashings
Code 4 lead is one of the most widely used and versatile forms of rolled lead sheet for roofing work in the UK. It offers more substance than Code 3 while remaining workable on site, making it especially well suited to stepped flashings, cover flashings, chimney aprons, soakers, dormer details and general-purpose lead weatherings.
If you are looking to buy Code 4 lead sheet online, this category has been built to help roofers, builders and surveyors understand where Code 4 works best, how it compares with Code 3 and Code 5, and which accessories are commonly ordered alongside it.
Why choose Code 4 Lead
Code 4 Lead is often the preferred choice where a flashing or weathering needs more durability than Code 3 Lead, but the detail does not yet call for the extra mass of Code 5 Lead. At approximately 1.80 mm thick and 20.4 kg/m², it provides a reliable balance between workability, strength and long-term performance.
For many roofing details, Code 4 sits in the sweet spot: strong enough for everyday external weatherings and general flashing work, while still being straightforward to form, cut and install on site.
Best-fit uses for Code 4 Lead
- Stepped flashings to abutments and dormer cheeks.
- Cover flashings and chimney aprons.
- General-purpose weatherings where more substance than Code 3 is required.
- Soakers in more robust applications.
- Smaller roofing details and flashings where long-term durability matters.
Where Code 4 Lead sits in the range
Code 4 lead is often viewed as the practical middle ground in rolled lead sheet selection. It is heavier and more durable than Code 3 for general external use, but lighter and easier to handle than Code 5 where the detail does not justify a heavier code. For more exposed areas such as bay roofs, parapets, wider aprons or gutters, it is often appropriate to move up to Code 5 Lead.
Choose your roll length and width
Code 4 lead is available in a wide range of widths to suit common flashing and weathering applications. Narrower widths are useful for standard stepped and cover flashings, while broader widths may be appropriate for larger aprons and deeper detailing where movement, cover and drainage have been properly considered.
Where you need to compare widths, codes and weights before ordering, use the Lead Lads Shop lead chart or browse the wider rolled lead range.
Compare Lead Sheet Codes
| Lead code | Approx. thickness | Approx. mass | Typical uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Code 3 Lead | 1.32 mm | 15.0 kg/m² | Soakers, covered flashings and lightweight non-exposed detailing |
| Code 4 Lead | 1.80 mm | 20.4 kg/m² | General flashings, aprons, stepped flashings and lighter weatherings |
| Code 5 Lead | 2.24 mm | 25.4 kg/m² | Bays, parapets, gutters, large aprons and back gutters |
| Code 6 Lead | 2.65 mm | 30.0 kg/m² | Heavier-duty bays, parapets and larger roofing details |
Good practice, standards and guidance
Good Code 4 leadwork depends on correct detailing as much as material choice. Keep piece lengths sensible, place fixings outside movement zones, allow for expansion and contraction, and make sure water is shed cleanly from the detail. Where wider pieces are used, proper support and movement consideration remain important.
For broader technical guidance, explore the Lead Sheet Training Academy and wider LSA guidance, review the The Lead Lads BS 6915 overview, and use the many category pages, lead chart tools and buying guides available across the Lead Lads Shop. For practical leadwork examples, see Neal Roofing — Leadwork.
Helpful accessories to order with Code 4 Lead
- Hall Clips 50pk — rapid chase restraint before pointing.
- Lead Mate Sealant — neutral-cure finish for lead-to-masonry joints.
- Copper ARS Nails 3.35 x 25 mm or Stainless Ringshank 25 mm — clean mechanical fixings.
- Building Paper Underlay — smooth slip layer beneath wider pieces where appropriate.
- Patination Oil 0.5L — helps protect presentation on fresh work.
Related installation and buying guides
- Shop the lead chart
- Browse all rolled lead sheet codes
- Compare with Code 3 Lead
- Compare with Code 5 Lead
- Shop leadwork fixings and accessories
- Read leadwork standards and guidance
Frequently Asked Questions — Code 4 Lead
When should I choose Code 4 Lead?
Choose Code 4 Lead where you need a versatile general-purpose lead for stepped flashings, cover flashings, aprons and other roofing details that need more substance than Code 3 but do not require the extra weight of Code 5.
When should I step up to Code 5 Lead?
Move up to Code 5 Lead for wider, more exposed or more demanding details such as bay roofs, parapets, gutters and heavier aprons.
Is Code 4 Lead suitable for chimney flashings?
Yes. Code 4 lead is commonly used for chimney aprons, cover flashings and stepped flashings where a dependable and workable lead thickness is required.
Can Code 4 Lead be used for soakers?
Yes. Code 4 can be used for soakers in more robust applications, although Code 3 is often chosen for standard lightweight soaker work.
What fixings and sealants should I use with Code 4 Lead?
Use copper or stainless fixings placed outside movement zones, and neutral-cure sealants for chase work to help reduce staining risk and improve finish quality.
Code 4 Lead — Quick Reference
| Lead code | Code 4 |
|---|---|
| Approx. thickness | 1.80 mm |
| Approx. mass | 20.4 kg/m² |
| Typical uses | General flashings, aprons, stepped flashings and lighter weatherings |
| Best fit | Versatile general-purpose leadwork requiring more substance than Code 3 |
| Design notes | Keep piece lengths sensible, allow for movement and use heavier lead where exposure increases |
Related Categories
- Code 3 Lead — soakers and lightweight detailing.
- Code 5 Lead — bays, parapets and gutters.
- Leadwork Fixings — nails, clips, oils and sealants.
- All Rolled Lead Sheet — the full range of lead codes and widths.
Image Set on this Page
- Code 4 lead roll for general flashings and roofing details.
- Code 4 lead suitable for stepped flashings, aprons and more robust weatherings.
Always follow the project specification, recognised leadwork guidance and relevant standards including BS 6915 principles where applicable. Protect adjacent finishes during installation and keep fixings out of movement zones.
