Lisnastrain Cavity Trays

08/06/2026

Stepped Cavity Trays: The Small Detail That Prevents Big Problems

When a building includes a stepped roofline, varying wall heights, or changes in masonry levels, a standard cavity tray often isn't enough.

That's where stepped cavity trays come in.

Designed to follow the stepped profile of brickwork, these trays play a crucial role in directing water safely out of the cavity before it can pe*****te the internal structure. While they may not be the most visible component on a project, they are essential for long-term building performance.

Why are they important?

✅ Prevent water ingress at roof abutments and stepped masonry details

✅ Maintain continuous moisture protection across level changes

✅ Help reduce the risk of damp, staining, and structural deterioration

✅ Support compliance with modern building standards and best practices

Too often, waterproofing details only get attention when something goes wrong. The reality is that investing in the right cavity tray solution during construction can save significant time, cost, and disruption in the future.

In construction, it's often the details hidden behind the brickwork that make the biggest difference.

Have you encountered projects where stepped cavity trays were critical to solving a challenging waterproofing detail?

03/06/2026

Stepped Cavity Trays: A Small Detail That Matters in the Wet UK & Ireland Climate

With the amount of wind-driven rain we experience across the UK and Ireland, moisture management in masonry construction isn't optional—it's critical.

One detail that often gets overlooked is the stepped cavity tray. Where masonry follows roof lines, parapets, or changes in level, stepped cavity trays play a vital role in intercepting water that pe*****tes the outer leaf and directing it safely back outside through weep vents.

Without correctly designed and installed stepped cavity trays, water can track across cavities, leading to:

• Internal dampness and staining
• Degradation of insulation performance
• Timber decay and mould growth
• Costly remedial works years after completion

In regions exposed to frequent rainfall and strong winds, cavity trays should be viewed as part of the building's primary moisture defence strategy—not just a compliance requirement.

Key considerations include:
✔ Correct positioning within the cavity
✔ Proper lapping between tray sections
✔ Effective stop ends and corner details
✔ Adequate weep vent spacing
✔ Compatibility with insulation and cavity barriers

Good detailing at the design stage and quality installation on site can prevent significant water ingress issues throughout a building's lifespan.

As is often the case in construction, it's the hidden details that make the biggest difference.

26/05/2026

In warm weather, effective cavity trays with attached lead play a vital role in protecting masonry from moisture pe*******on. As temperatures rise, building materials naturally expand and contract, increasing the risk of water ingress around roof junctions, chimneys, and cavity walls.

A properly installed cavity tray channels water safely out of the structure, while the attached lead flashing provides a durable, flexible seal that performs exceptionally well in changing temperatures. Lead adapts naturally to thermal movement, making it ideal for warmer conditions where expansion can compromise weaker materials.

The result is improved weather protection, reduced damp issues, and longer-lasting structural integrity — especially important during hotter months when buildings are under greater thermal stress.

Quality installation and the right materials make all the difference.

20/05/2026

Despite the rise of alternative flashing systems, I still believe cavity trays with attached lead flashings remain the benchmark detail for long-term masonry performance.

There’s a reason they’ve stood the test of time.

✅ Why lead-attached cavity trays still work exceptionally well:

* Proven durability over decades in real-world exposure
* Excellent weathering performance in harsh conditions
* Reduced reliance on multiple interfaces and joints
* Less risk of separation between tray and flashing
* Strong compatibility with traditional masonry construction
* Easier to achieve a robust, continuous waterproof detail

While modern alternatives are often promoted for speed and cost savings, the reality is that many failures occur where separate components have been poorly coordinated or installed.

With an attached lead cavity tray system, the detail is simpler:
➡️ one integrated waterproofing solution
➡️ fewer opportunities for installer error
➡️ better long-term reliability

Yes, lead requires skilled installation and proper allowance for movement — but when detailed correctly, it consistently outperforms many lightweight alternatives in lifespan and resilience.

In an industry increasingly focused on programme speed, we shouldn’t lose sight of what matters most:

Durability and performance over the life of the building.

Good detailing is never just about getting through the next inspection — it’s about ensuring the façade still performs 30+ years later.

What’s everyone seeing on current projects?

Are lead-attached cavity trays still your preferred specification, or are clients pushing toward alternative systems?

11/05/2026

Living in Ireland and the UK means one thing for buildings: relentless wind-driven rain. 🌧️💨

That’s why cavity trays are such a critical part of modern construction. Installed correctly, they help redirect moisture out of cavity walls before it can cause damp, staining, or structural issues inside the property.

In climates like ours, where heavy rainfall and changing temperatures are constant challenges, cavity trays aren’t just a building regulation requirement — they’re essential protection.

Too often, water ingress problems come down to poor detailing, incorrect installation, or missing trays altogether.

Good construction isn’t only about what you can see — it’s about the hidden systems that keep buildings dry for decades.

lisnastrain cavity trays, cavity trays, building, trade, damp proof, damp, products, coalisland, builders, house, homes, leak

23/04/2026

How to Measure the Quantity of Lisnastrain Stepped Cavity Trays

When installing stepped cavity trays accurate measurement is essential to ensure proper damp-proofing and avoid material shortages or waste.

What Are Stepped Cavity Trays?

Stepped cavity trays are used where a pitched roof meets a cavity wall (roof abutment). Their role is to intercept water penetrating the outer leaf and safely discharge it, preventing internal damp issues.

Key Method for Measuring Quantity;

The main accepted way to calculate the number of stepped cavity trays required-

Vertical Measurement (Most Common Method):

📏Measure the vertical height of the abutment (in metres).

➗Divide this by the coursing height of the masonry (typically 75mm for standard brickwork).

Formula:
Number of trays=
Coursing height (m)➗Vertical height (m)
​

Example:
Vertical height = 1.5m
Brick coursing = 75mm (0.075m)
1.5÷0.075=20 trays
➡️ Result: 20 stepped cavity trays required

lisnastrain cavity trays, cavity trays, building, trade, damp proof, damp, products, coalisland, builders, house, homes, leak

02/04/2026

Lisnastrain Cavity Trays is now closed for the Easter holidays 🐣

We would like to wish all our customers a very happy and relaxing break!

We will reopen on Thursday 9th April and look forward to seeing you all again then.

01/04/2026

Busy week at Lisnastrain Cavity Trays!

🚀As we approach the Easter break, orders are flying out the door! 🐣🧱 Our team is working hard to ensure all pre-formed cavity trays, chimney trays, and lead flashings are delivered on time to keep your sites moving.

🚐💨No delays, just top-quality, approved trays to stop driving rain in its tracks. 🌧️

✅ Pre-formed for fast installation
✅ Factory-fitted lead for superior waterproofing
✅ Delivered to site

Need last-minute supplies before the break? Give us a call at 028 8676 4433 or check our online shop.

26/03/2026

Proud to support local manufacturing across Ireland and the UK👍

Lisnastrain Cavity Trays Ltd, based in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, we are leading the way in producing high-quality cavity trays using locally sourced materials and skilled craftsmanship. As a family-owned business at the heart of Mid-Ulster, we manufacture bespoke cavity trays and lead products designed specifically for the Irish and UK construction industries.

By using materials such as milled lead and durable polypropylene, combined with modern manufacturing techniques, Lisnastrain ensure every product meets the highest standards of quality and performance. Our commitment to local sourcing supports suppliers across both Ireland and the UK, while also delivering fast turnaround times and dependable service nationwide.

Supporting companies like Lisnastrain means backing local jobs, local materials, and regional expertise—helping to build stronger communities across Ireland and the UK.

Call now to connect with business.

25/03/2026

Another load of rolled flashing heading out the door. Saving joiners/roofers time and money having all pre-made in house .