Making lead window trays

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Red_Shift

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Hi guys,

My builder and my roofer are arguing about whose job it is to build the lead window trays for my dormer windows. The trays look like a fairly simple structure, can I diy make these or do I need specialised welding equipment? I remember melting lead "back in the day" to make lead soldiers with just a match/lighter but I'm not sure if soldering iron would be ok for this or not?
Thanks for your thoughts
 
I would use a leadworker myself........to make a good weld is quite an art. You need oxy acetylene bottles with the right nozzles. For what it would cost to have a dedicated leadworker that's what I'd do, especially if it were my house. It would all be done to the lead sheet association best practice guide etc.......
 
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Well I had a go at welding and it was a nightmare, lead melts at so low a temp you end up with holes everywhere. I've decided to buy some half trays from a local chap like doggit suggested. Thanks guys.
 
Red_Shift said:
Well I had a go at welding and it was a nightmare, lead melts at so low a temp you end up with holes everywhere. I've decided to buy some half trays from a local chap like doggit suggested. Thanks guys.
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Did you tried with the lead pieces just butting or the pieces overlapping? the latter is much easier.
litl
 
I've watched someone welding lead together, and it's a nack, part of the trick is to move the flame in and out of the area being melted, and keep moving it along, and that way, it doesn't overheat. I think you may be able to use a good quality plumbers gas torch rather than a welding kit.
 
The chap from "just lead" up the road from me in wadebridge was very helpful and I've managed to get two Windows in today. I'd recommend his products which I think you can buy on line.
 
What do you guys do when it comes to fix the window - do you screw through the lead tray ? That feels a bad idea … wish me luck later this week I’m going to be welding my own up. I was practising on the dining room table this afternoon - managed half decent welds on butted horizontal sheets …
 
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