Why choose Code 3 180mm 3m Roofing Lead?

Code 3 180mm 3m Roofing Lead is a light, highly workable strip designed for narrow flashings and small trims where you want clean lines
without excessive bulk. With an approximate thickness of 1.32 mm and a mass of about 14.9 kg/m²,
Code 3 is easy to cut, shape and dress—ideal for compact junctions and tight chases.

The 180 mm width is perfect where space is limited and you don’t need a wide weathering. The 3 m length keeps handling simple on site,
particularly on ladders and small scaffold lifts, and it allows you to keep piece lengths sensible for tidy detailing. For technique refreshers and best-practice principles,
explore The Lead Lads and our standards explainer aligned to
BS 6915 — Proper Leadwork.
For real-world examples of finished leadwork detailing, visit
Neal Roofing — Leadwork.

Best-fit uses for Code 3 180mm 3m Roofing Lead

• Narrow flashings to small upstands and confined junctions.
• Compact cover details where a wider roll would be unnecessary or wasteful.
• Small trims and protective weatherings around roofs, dormers and masonry features.
• Repair pieces where you want easy dressing and quick, tidy finishing.
• Lightweight detailing where excessive thickness would be difficult to form neatly.

Planning & set-out

Before cutting Code 3 180mm 3m Roofing Lead, confirm lap requirements, chase depth (where relevant) and joint positions. Keep piece lengths sensible for movement,
and set out steps/drips to ensure water sheds cleanly. If a wider cover is required for the detail, consider stepping up to larger widths and/or a heavier code.

Good practice: restraint and finishing

Keep mechanical fixings out of movement zones and avoid over-nailing. For chase restraint on flashings, use
Hall Clips then point neatly with mortar or
Lead Mate Sealant depending on specification. For a cleaner early-life finish on visible work, apply
Lead Patination Oil. Where a slip layer is required beneath wider weatherings, use
Building Paper Lead Underlay.

Installation essentials

1. Prepare: Provide smooth bearing surfaces; remove sharp edges that can puncture lead.
2. Cut: Measure and cut cleanly to maintain straight lines and consistent laps.
3. Dress: Dress lightly and evenly; avoid over-stretching thin sheet at corners.
4. Restrain: Use clips/appropriate fixings; keep fixings out of movement zones.
5. Finish: Seal chases neatly and protect visible elevations with patination oil.

Choosing the right code & width

Code 3 is typically used for lighter, narrower flashing work. If the detail is wider, more exposed, or acting as a covering (bays/parapets),
step up to Code 4/5/6 as appropriate and select a wider roll. Matching code and width to function—plus thoughtful movement detailing and drainage—underpins long service life.

Further reading

For deeper guidance on compliant detailing and best practice, visit
theleadlads.co.uk and review site examples at
Neal Roofing — Leadwork.

At a glance — Code 3 180mm 3m Roofing Lead