10/05/2026
I spent some time with a homeowner today helping her figure out why her conservatory was leaking, and we found the culprit: lead oxidisation.
If you take a look at the photos, you can see that white, powdery residue on the lead. It is very easy to overlook, but it’s actually a sign that the lead is losing its natural oils and becoming brittle over time.
When lead loses its flexibility, it can no longer move with the weather. Eventually, it snaps and cracks, just like the one I spotted today, which is exactly how the water was getting inside.
Maintaining your leadwork is so important because once that oxidisation starts, it is only a matter of time before the metal fails. Keeping the lead clean and treated ensures it stays flexible and continues doing its job of keeping your home dry and secure.