How do lead working sticks work?
How do lead working sticks work? |
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All lead working sticks take advantage of the malleability of lead and work by moving it from one point to another. | |||
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Flattening lead |
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When a lead dresser is used to flatten sheet lead or other sheet metals, the flat face of the tool pushes the lead from one end of the sheet to the other, gradually smoothing out any bumps or other imperfections. | |||
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As a weatherproofing device, it is important that flashing is flattened effectively before it is installed, as it needs to be able to sit flush against the structure it is protecting. | |||
Bossing an internal corner (removing lead) |
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Bossing an internal corner involves using a setting-in stick to form an initial corner and a bossing stick and mallet to work the lead up from its base.
As bossing takes place, excess lead is directed outwards away from the corner and up towards the edge of the sheet metal. When the angle of the corner has been reached, the surplus lead is trimmed off and discarded. |
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Forming an external corner (gaining lead) |
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When bossing an external corner, lead needs to moved to (or gained at) the point at which the corner is to be formed so that it can be moulded around the exterior structure. External corners are usually dressed using a bossing stick or bending dresser. | |||
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When working lead, it is important to maintain a uniform thickness over the entire area you are working. This technique can be extremely difficult and requires a lot of practice to perfect.
If the lead becomes too thin, it could split and become unsuitable for its intended application. Usually lead at least 1.8mm in thickness is used for flashings. |
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