Chimney & Leadwork
Expert Chimney & Leadwork Across Dorset
Traditional craftsmanship for chimneys and leadwork. From simple flashing repairs to complex heritage restorations, we do it properly.
Skilled Craftsmanship
Work That Lasts Generations
Good leadwork and chimney repairs are not just about stopping the immediate leak. They are about doing the job properly so it lasts decades, not years.
We use traditional methods because they work. Milled lead sheet (not cheaper cast alternatives), proper mortar mixes, correct overlaps and joints. It takes longer, but the results speak for themselves.
Our Services
Chimney & Leadwork Specialists
Chimney Repairs & Repointing
Dorset's coastal weather is brutal on chimneys. Salt air and driving rain erode mortar joints, loosen bricks, and cause water ingress. We repair cracked and crumbling stacks, repoint with appropriate lime or cement mortar, and rebuild where necessary. For listed buildings and period properties, we use traditional lime mortars and match existing brick bonds.
- Full chimney repointing
- Brick repairs & matching
- Stack rebuilding
- Lime mortar for period properties
- Damp investigation & resolution
- Listed building specialists
Chimney Flashing
The junction between your chimney and roof is a common leak point. Lead flashing, step flashing, back gutters, and soakers must be correctly installed and maintained. We replace failed flashings with Code 4 or 5 lead, properly dressed and sealed into the masonry. Good flashing work should last 50+ years.
- Lead apron & step flashing
- Back gutter installation
- Soaker replacement
- Code 4 & 5 milled lead
- Proper mortar haunching
- Existing lead repairs
Chimney Cowls & Caps
Rain, birds, and debris getting into your chimney causes damp, blockages, and damage. We fit cowls to working chimneys to improve draw and prevent rain entry, and caps to disused chimneys that still allow ventilation. A simple, cost-effective solution to common problems.
- Anti-downdraught cowls
- Rain caps & terminals
- Bird guards
- Ventilated caps for disused flues
- Pot & cowl fitting
- Advice on flue ventilation
Lead Valleys & Gutters
Valley gutters where two roof slopes meet, and hidden gutters behind parapets, are critical for water management. When they fail, water gets into your roof structure, often unnoticed until serious damage is done. We install new lead valleys to traditional specifications and repair or replace failed sections.
- Lead valley installation
- Parapet gutter repairs
- Secret gutter linings
- Code 5 & 6 lead
- Proper rolls & joints
- Long-lasting traditional methods
Leadwork for Heritage Properties
Dorset has thousands of listed buildings, conservation area properties, and period homes. Leadwork on these buildings requires understanding of traditional methods, appropriate materials, and often planning approval. Our team has decades of experience on heritage properties, from Purbeck stone cottages to larger manor houses.
- Listed building experience
- Traditional craft techniques
- Conservation area compliant
- Planning advice & liaison
- Matching existing leadwork
- Photographic documentation
Local Expertise
We Know Dorset Properties
From Purbeck stone cottages with their distinctive limestone chimneys to Victorian villas in Bournemouth with elaborate brick stacks, every Dorset property type has its quirks.
We understand the local building traditions, the materials that work in this climate, and the planning requirements in conservation areas.
When you call us, you get craftspeople who've worked on hundreds of Dorset properties. Not a generic contractor working from a manual.
Areas We Cover
Chimney & Leadwork FAQs
How do I know if my chimney needs attention?
Look for crumbling mortar joints, loose or missing bricks, leaning stacks, damp patches on bedroom ceilings, or staining on the chimney breast inside. Any of these suggest problems worth investigating.
What grade of lead do you use?
For most flashing work, Code 4 or 5 milled lead. For larger areas like valleys or flat roofs, Code 5 or 6. We always use the appropriate weight for the application; going too light causes premature failure.
How long does lead flashing last?
Properly installed lead flashing should last 50-100 years. The main reasons for early failure are poor installation, insufficient weight, or physical damage. We do it right first time.
Do you need scaffolding for chimney work?
Almost always, yes. Working safely at height on a chimney stack requires proper access. We handle scaffolding as part of the job, so you get a single quote and one team on site.
Can you work on listed buildings?
Yes. We have extensive experience with listed properties and understand the requirements. Where planning consent is needed, we can advise on the process and provide documentation.
My chimney is no longer used. Should I cap it?
Yes, but with ventilation. A completely sealed chimney traps moisture and causes damp. We fit ventilated caps that keep rain and birds out while allowing air circulation.
Chimney or leadwork problem?
Get it sorted properly. Call us for a free inspection and honest advice.