Soaker
/SOH-ker/
Also known as: lead soaker, soaker flashing, step and soaker, secret soaker
Definition
A small piece of lead, aluminium, or zinc used at the junction between a roof slope and an upstand - such as a chimney, parapet, or abutting wall - to prevent water ingress. Soakers interleave with the roof tiles course by course, with a separate cover flashing over the top.
In Practice
Soakers are typically made from Code 3 or Code 4 lead sheet, cut to a width of (tile gauge + head lap) and a length of (tile width + 25mm upturn). They are hidden under the tiles with only the step flashing visible. At chimneys, front apron flashing, soakers, and back gutter combine to fully weatherproof the junction.
See Also