Flashing Tape vs Lead Flashing: Which Is Better? | Supraseal
Flashing Tape vs Lead Flashing: Which Should You Use?
Lead flashing has been the traditional choice for sealing roof joints, chimneys and gutters for decades. But self-adhesive flashing tape like Supraseal® is fast becoming the preferred option for professionals — and for good reason.
Installation time
Lead flashing needs to be cut, dressed and often welded or soldered into place, which can take hours per job. Supraseal® is rolled on cold and bonds in minutes, cutting labour time significantly on repair and maintenance jobs.
Cost
Lead prices fluctuate and have climbed steadily over the past few years. A roll of flashing tape typically costs a fraction of an equivalent lead job once you factor in material and labour.
Safety and handling
Lead is a toxic material requiring careful handling and disposal. Flashing tape is non-toxic, lightweight and safe to handle without special precautions.
Durability
Supraseal® is UV stable, fully waterproof, and backed by a 10-year warranty. It resists cracking and doesn't corrode the way lead can over time in polluted or coastal environments.
When lead still makes sense
For large-scale new-build roofing where the aesthetic and structural properties of lead are specified, lead flashing may still be the right call. For repairs, maintenance, and most modular or portable building applications, flashing tape is faster, cheaper and easier to source.
The bottom line
If you're weighing up a same-day repair against a lead job that needs scheduling, sourcing and safe handling, Supraseal® flashing tape gets the leak sealed today.