Since we launched Wakaflex into the Australian market, we’ve sold enough flashing to flash from Sydney to Perth and back again.
That’s approximately 6000 km comprising 1.2 million rolls of Wakaflex flashing.
We’ve played a significant role in importing Wakaflex into Australia and contributed toward it becoming Australia’s number 1 lead-free flashing choice.
We saw the potential of Wakaflex early on and like to see ourselves as part of the drive toward lead-free alternatives in the roof flashing space.
Our customers agree and have wholeheartedly adopted Wakaflex’s first-class product for its many benefits.
So, what’s all the fuss?
Let’s dive into the reasons why Wakaflex is one of the best lead-free flashing options available on the market.
What is Wakaflex Flashing?
Flashing is a crucial roofing component that ensures rainwater is kept at bay and your home remains safe and protected. It prevents water from entering a building through roof penetrations, such as vents, chimneys, skylights, or other structures. You install roof flashing around the base of these structures to create a watertight seal between them and the roof surface
However, with numerous flashing options available in the market, what sets lead-free Wakaflex apart and makes it such a popular choice?
Wakaflex flashing is a widely-used, lead-free flashing solution that serves as a substitute for lead-based alternatives. Suitable for nearly all roof profiles, Wakaflex flashing is particularly effective for flashing around chimneys and other vertical surfaces where the roof surface meets.
Like all flashing solutions, Wakaflex flashing is designed to work in hot or cold conditions, diverting water away from rooftop penetrations and preventing potential leaks in your home.
Before we explore the specific product details some more, it’s worth rehashing why moving away from lead flashing is so important.
What’s wrong with lead flashing?
Lead flashing has been a commonly used material in the construction industry for decades due to its durability and beneficial properties. It has the ability to resist water, high temperatures, and corrosion, making it an ideal material for preventing water damage and maintaining the structural integrity of buildings.
Sounds great, right? Lead seemed like a fine option until we discovered just how bad it can be for our health.
High levels of lead intake can result in unpleasant symptoms such as headaches, nausea, constipation, and anaemia. Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe complications, including kidney, nerve, and brain damage and infertility.
Using lead-free flashing in roofing systems is a safer option for both installers and homeowners. Lead-free flashing doesn’t contain any toxic substances, eliminating any potential installation hazards while ensuring runoff water doesn’t get contaminated either.
The long and short of it is that lead-free flashing was a well-overdue safer product that entered the market around fifteen years ago.
However, its safety isn’t the only benefit of Wakalex flashing.
The Benefits of Wakaflex Lead-free Flashing
Here are five key advantages of using Wakaflex as a lead-free flashing solution:
- Wakaflex is quick and easy to install
Wakaflex’s self-adhesive backing chemically bonds to almost any roof profile, making it easy to apply without any specialist tools or equipment. Its lightweight and malleable design requires no additional silicone, ensuring a fast and hassle-free installation process.
- Wakaflex is safe and environmentally friendly
Wakaflex is non-toxic and lead-free, eliminating potential hazards and health risks associated with lead-based flashing materials. It is also safe for collecting and recycling runoff water for drinking purposes as part of rainwater harvesting systems, making it an environmentally-friendly solution.
- Wakaflex is durable and reliable
Wakaflex’s polyisobutylene top sheet and inner aluminium honeycomb mesh provide reinforcement, making it a durable and robust flashing material. Its flexibility and UV resistance ensures long-lasting performance. Wakaflex also comes with a ten-year warranty so you also have peace of mind in case there are any issues.
- Wakaflex is versatile
Wakaflex’s ability to chemically bond almost any roofing material and its temperature stability makes it suitable for use on nearly all roof profiles, including chimney flashings, wall abutments, re-roofs, repairs, and retrofitting over old lead flashings.
- Wakaflex comes in a range of options
Wakaflex is available in various roll sizes, ensuring you can purchase the appropriate amount without worrying about wastage. It also comes in various colours, such as terracotta, black, and lead grey, and can even be painted to match existing roof tiles or brickwork. This means you can almost always match Wakaflex to the aesthetics of your home.
How to Buy Wakaflex
If you want to try out Wakaflex for yourself, you can visit the ‘Where to Buy‘ section of our website to find a local supplier.
You can buy Wakaflex in lead grey, brown, terracotta, or black in 280, 370, 0r 560 mm rolls.
If you want more detailed information about Wakaflex, check out our comprehensive set of FAQs on the number one lead-free flashing solution in Australia.
Final Thoughts
As the need for environmentally friendly products becomes increasingly essential, Wakaflex has emerged as Australia’s leading non-lead flashing solution. This non-toxic material offers a versatile alternative to traditional lead roofing materials.
But this is just the beginning of Wakaflex’s advantages as a roof flashing product.
Wakaflex is a user-friendly and secure option that can be used in conjunction with butyl sealing strips to create an instant watertight seal on almost any roof profile.
One of the most appealing advantages is that it can be installed quickly and easily without requiring specialised tools or professional assistance.
Check out our easy installation guidelines for more detailed information on how to install.