Molten lead and lead wool are often called lead caulk.
Lead caulk can be used for waterproofing joints. Lead is very stable and a lead moisture barrier will last as long as most buildings. (Lead Roofs have been known to last 200 years) Lead can be used to joint cast iron pipes, line reflecting pools, fountains, plant boxes, and more. Sheet lead with lead caulked joints can be used to create a perfect water barrier.
Lead Caulk for Expansion Joints
Lead wool and molten lead caulk are used to seal expansion joints in concrete structures, bridge decks, and industrial floors. The material remains flexible under thermal expansion and contraction.
Reflecting Pools, Fountains & Garden Features
Lead caulk provides a permanent, watertight seal for reflecting pools, stone fountains, and garden water features. Lead caulk stays workable and is widely used with natural stone and masonry.
Heritage Building Restoration
Lead caulk has been used in heritage building restoration for centuries. It is compatible with cast iron, masonry, and stonework, making it ideal for restoring period plumbing and drainage systems. For roof and chimney waterproofing using lead sheet, see our lead flashing page.
Lead Wool and Caulking Lead
Lead caulk is supplied in two forms: lead wool, which is lead drawn into fine strands and twisted into rope, and caulking lead for poured joints.
For the jointing of cast iron lead pipes it is sometimes permissible to use lead wool (sometimes called shredded lead), which can be caulked cold, but molten lead is often required.
Lead Wool consists of chemical grade lead drawn in long, fine strands. These strands are then twisted together into 5/8 inch rope.
Cast-Iron Soil Pipes
Lead caulking is used in commercial construction building applications, most commonly in the joining or sealing of cast iron soil pipes. The lead used for this purpose must be liquefied. Working with molten lead can lead to exposure to lead-oxide fumes and should be not be attempted without proper training and safety equipment, lead pots should include a portable local exhaust ventilation system mounted directly on or near the pot to control lead fumes.
How to Order Lead Caulk
Contact Nuclead with your joint dimensions and preferred form (lead wool or caulking lead). Lead wool per QQ-C-40 in 5 lb rope and 25–50 lb boxes. Call (508) 583-2699 for pricing and availability. Nuclead also supplies lead gutter outlets for heritage roof drainage systems — see our lead gutter outlets page.
For a complete listing of products available on this site, go to the products and services index page .