Why choose code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead?

The code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead roll is the industry standard for flat and low-pitch lead roofing. Its 850mm width is specifically suited to traditional lead bays formed over wood core rolls at 600mm centres, providing the perfect proportions for undercloaks, overcloaks, splash laps and drips. For leadworkers and roofing contractors, this size is a mainstay material for forming durable, long-life roof coverings.

Produced to the BS EN 12588 material standard, this sheet delivers consistent thickness (approx. 2.24mm), reliable malleability and the strength required for weatherings subjected to standing water or low falls. All workmanship must follow Lead Sheet Training Academy (LSTA) guidance and the national installation standard BS 6915, which defines bay sizing, drips, laps, fixings and movement joints for traditional lead roofing.

The extended 6m length allows efficient cutting of multiple bays from a single roll, helping maintain consistency across large roof areas while minimising waste. This makes code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead a go-to product for premium domestic roofing, heritage buildings and long-span architectural projects.

For bay sizing and weight calculations, use our
Lead Roll Calculator.

Typical uses for code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead

This roll format is specifically suited to lead roofing applications, including:

• Flat and low-pitch lead roofs formed in bays with drips and wood core rolls.
• Undercloaks and overcloaks in traditional roll-formed roofing systems.
• Splash laps, drips and movement joints to BS 6915.
• Large bay roofs on heritage, conservation and high-spec builds.
• Wide chimney back gutters or apron weatherings requiring deep coverage.
• Parapet and boundary wall cappings with extended laps and upstands.
• Interface weatherings between flat and pitched roofing elements.

Why 850mm is ideal for traditional lead roofing

The code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead sheet is uniquely suited to the geometry of classic roll-formed roofing systems. When laid over wood core rolls spaced at 600mm centres, it allows ideal proportions for cloaks, laps and joints, offering:

• Correct lap allowances for overcloaks and splash laps.
• Efficient bay sizing with reduced offcuts.
• Structural stability for flat or low-pitch performance.
• Enhanced durability under cyclical thermal movement.

These properties make it a core material for both modern and heritage roofing work, delivering long-term reliability when installed to recognised best practice.

Installation guidance

Install code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead in accordance with the LSTA craft manuals and BS 6915 detailing rules. These standards govern:

• Maximum bay lengths for Code 5 roofing applications.
• Minimum lap and splash lap requirements.
• Drip heights and positioning at bay transitions.
• Fixing patterns and clipping arrangements.
• Allowance for thermal expansion and contraction.

BS EN 12588 covers the physical composition of the sheet only. For detailing and workmanship guidance, refer here:

The Lead Lads — BS 6915 Guide
Neal Roofing — Leadwork Standards

After installation, apply patination oil to prevent early carbonate staining and promote a clean, uniform finish.

Installation essentials

1. Prepare the deck: Ensure continuous support with
   Lead Underlay.
2. Set out bays: Cutting is typically based around 600mm roll centres.
3. Fix correctly: Use copper/stainless fixings from
   Leadwork Fixings.
4. Form joints: Create undercloaks, overcloaks and drips to BS 6915 rules.
5. Finish: Apply patination oil and seal all junctions neatly.

Further support & resources

Learn more about the BS EN 12588 material standard:
BS EN 12588 – Ultimate Guide.

Explore deeper technical content within
The Lead Handbook
and across our main platform
The Lead Lads.

For examples of high-quality workmanship, visit
Neal Roofing Leadwork Services.

Recommended accessories

Combine code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead with:
Lead Underlay,
Patination Oil,
Lead Mate Sealant,
and premium fixings from
Leadwork Fixings.

At a glance — code 5 850mm 6m roofing lead

Values approximate. Use BS EN 12588 for material specification and follow LSTA / BS 6915 for workmanship and detailing requirements.