The standard range of cast iron gutter profiles, downpipes, and hopper heads covers the vast majority of period and listed building requirements. But where an existing system uses a non-standard profile, a distinctive decorative detail, or a configuration that cannot be matched from stock, bespoke and copy casting provides the solution.
Tuscan Foundry specialises in bespoke cast iron work — from the replication of a single damaged section to complete custom rainwater systems for significant heritage projects.
Bespoke Cast Iron Gutters
Where a building’s existing gutter profile cannot be matched from our 19 standard sizes, we can produce a bespoke casting to match the original exactly. Working from drawings, detailed photographs, or a physical sample, our pattern makers produce a new pattern from which the casting is made. This service is appropriate for grade I and II* listed buildings where like-for-like replacement is a consent condition, and for any project where architectural accuracy is a priority.
We can also produce radius gutters — curved sections to match bay windows, turrets, oast houses, and other non-linear elevations. Radius gutters are available in all standard profiles and can be produced to any specified radius.
Bespoke Cast Iron Downpipes
Decorative downpipe details — barley twist, weave, lattice, and other ornamental patterns — can be reproduced by bespoke casting where they are present on an existing building and standard pipes would not provide a satisfactory match. We work directly with architects and specifiers to establish the correct specification before pattern-making commences.
Bespoke Hopper Heads
Cast iron hopper heads and rainwater leaders are among the most characterful elements of a traditional rainwater system. Our standard range includes over 50 ornamental patterns, but for projects where the existing hopper carries a specific date, monogram, coat of arms, or architectural motif, a bespoke casting can reproduce it accurately.
Bespoke hoppers are made to order and can incorporate round, square, or rectangular pipe connections in standard sizes, with single or multiple outlets depending on the size of the head.
Pavement Lights and Other Bespoke Castings
Our bespoke casting capability extends beyond rainwater systems. We produce cast iron pavement lights, floor grates, railings, bollards, planters, and other architectural ironwork for conservation and restoration projects. All bespoke castings are produced to the required standard — cast iron to BS EN GJL-250 for structural applications.
Finishes for Bespoke Castings
Bespoke castings are available in all standard Tuscan Foundry finishes: grey primer (ready for site painting), factory-applied black, heritage colours in RAL or BS specifications, and linseed oil paint finish. Coastal and marine specifications are available for exposed locations.
Lead Times
Bespoke and copy casting typically requires 8–10 weeks from order confirmation, covering pattern-making, casting, finishing, and inspection. We recommend raising enquiries early in the project programme to allow adequate time for production. For urgent requirements, please discuss timescales with our sales team at the earliest opportunity.
For bespoke casting enquiries, call 0333 987 4452 or visit tuscanfoundry.com/bespoke.