Thinking of replacing your old gutters but don’t know which system to choose? Why not consider Cast Iron effect, a new development in plastic guttering, which combines the modern benefits of PVC with the traditional look of Cast Iron. Find out more about this product and how it is manufactured in this article.
The benefits offered by PVC Guttering have been understood by Builders, Plumbers and Gutters for many years. It is lightweight, strong and virtually maintenance free and it is available in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit almost every style of building. But metal gutters – cast iron in particular – still sell surprisingly well all across the UK. Cast Iron products are inherently Victorian in their nature. Think about ornamental gates, railings and even baths, and the image that is conjured up is one of elegant, traditional buildings and houses. It is this “kerb appeal” that prompts many discerning builders and homeowners to opt for Cast Iron gutters on their new build installation or refurbishment project.
Plastic guttering manufacturers, aware of the business that was being lost to traditional manufacturers, have in recent years come up with a clever alternative. Cast Iron effect gutter and soil pipe systems incorporate the appearance of traditional cast systems into a modern PVC product, meaning that all the benefits of plastic are still inherent in the product. It looks like metal, it even feels a little like metal, but it is lightweight, easy to install and it won’t rust or need painting.
Cast Effect Guttering, although generally less expensive than cast iron, is still more expensive than standard, plain coloured gutters. The reason for this is that the manufacturing process is far more involved as it is a two-stage process. Normal gutter products are taken from the production line and put through a secondary stage that creates the mottled, dimpled appearance of traditional metal. The actual process itself is a well guarded secret involving spraying and baking, but the appearance of the finished product is highly effective. With the downpipe system, which most manufacturers offer in square or round, the products themselves are completely different to normal PVC rainwater pipes. The pipes themselves incorporate large sockets, just like their Victorian predecessor, and the clips, shoes, sockets and joiners are all moulded with large “ears”, mimicking the metal versions. The pipes themselves are generally supplied in 2.5m lengths, again to replicate the effect of iron pipework. Rainwater hopper heads are styled in a traditional fashion, with angular ridges and lines, making them a decorative feature. Motifs such as lions’ heads and fleur-de-lis are also available to add further substance to the installation.
The method of fixing this system is exactly the same as normal guttering, so it can be undertaken by any builder, plumber or competent DIY-er.
The finished item is a strong, resilient product that is corrosion free and growing in popularity at a steady rate. Most reputable suppliers offer cast effect guttering in different styles such as half round, deep flow and ogee, with a choice of downpipes.
Plastic Inspection Chambers – Key Facts
Underground Drainage systems have moved on considerably since plastic first took over from clay as the material of choice for builders and civil engineers. This is particularly true when considering the use of inspection chambers, or manholes as they are still commonly referred to as. The following article explains how, why and where to use inspection chambers in a domestic drainage system.
Guttering for Barns and Larger Buildings
With many barns and industrial buildings now being converted for domestic use as houses, maintenance is a key subject. These types of buildings differ from standard houses in both their size and their type of construction. One question that often arises is what to do when replacing the roof gutters.
Replacing A Broken Manhole Cover
Replacing a broken manhole cover can be a confusing business. Follow these few simple steps to improve your understanding of what is required and allow you to make an informed choice about what and where to buy.
