Lead Flashing

[sandmaster]

Like several houses in our road we have recently replaced our front windows with bay windows. Lead flashing has been installed above them. No one seems to paint lead flashing but we find it detracts from the beauty if the new windows. Can someone explain to me why lead flashing should not be painted over? Thanks.

[waterboatman]

The paint will crack.

[murraymints]

I think it's a lot of faffle as it oxidises..surface will have to be thoroughly prepared with wire brushing..metal primer then appropriate paint... and if any wee bit has been missed or not sufficiently pre treated oxidisation will occur and paint will peel...

[rowanwitch]

Shouldnt worry someone will probably steal it soon

seriously though once it weathers properly it usually looks ok.

[murraymints]

lol Rowan !

[The Builder]

Yes, the paint will crack and flake. Lead is much too soft to paint successfully. The important thing with lead is to rub "patination oil" into it when it's new.

This will stop it from oxidising and discolouring. Without oil, it'll soon start to look tatty.