General - Cast Iron Rainwater System Specifications
Cast Iron Rainwater Drainage System.
Rainwater outlets, gutters, pipework, and accessories are as per the detailed sections below.
System Performance
Design Standard: To BS EN 12056-3:2000, clauses 3-7 and National Annexes. Collection and Distribution of Rainwater: Complete and without leakage or noise nuisance.
Design Parameters: Design rate of rainfall as per B5 EN 12056-3:2000, National Annex NB 2 – Category 1
Products - Tuscan Foundry - Gutter
Gutter and fittings to: BS 8530 (formerly BS 2997)
Reference: TUSCAN FOUNDRY PRODUCTS rainwater system
Profile: Half Round / Beaded Half Round / Deep Run Half Round / Og / Np.46 Moulded / H16 Moulded / Notts Og
Size: 100mm / 115mm / 125mm / 150mm / 100 x 75mm / 125 x 75mm / 125 x 100mm / 150 x 100mm Outlet Size: 63mm / 75mm / 100mm / 75 x 75mm / 100 x 75mm / 100 x 100mm
Manufacture: Complies with BS 460:2000 Cast Iron Rainwater Goods.
Finish: Bital 404 Primed (for Site Painting) or Factory Finish 4 Coat System.
Colour: To be advised
Jointing: Gutter lengths or fittings are overlapped at the joint with a spigot and socket. Slots are provided for fixing using M6 mushroom head zinc-plated nuts and washers. Seal evenly across the joints with Dow Corning 791.
Fixing: Fascia or rafter brackets fixed at maximum 915mm centres and each fitting using number 12x38mm round head twin thread screws and washers bright zinc plated.
Products - Tuscan Foundry - Downpipe
Reference: TUSCAN FOUNDRY rainwater pipe c/w Eared / plain non-eared / Collars, fittings and accessories to: BS 2997 Size: 63mm / 75mm / 100mm / 75 x 75mm / 100 x 75mm / 100 x 100mm
Manufacture: Complies with BS 460:2000 Cast Iron Rainwater Goods.
Finish: Heritage Transit Primed (for Site Painting) or Heritage Premier 4 Coat Factory Painted Finish.
Colour: To be advised
Fixing: Pipe clip fixed at a maximum of 1.83m centres. Plug and screw to the wall with M8 x 75mm Coach Bolt bright zinc plated to BS 1706:1960 Class ZN3. Seal joints with Dow corning 791 silicone sealant, allowing for a 3-4 mm vertical thermal movement gap.
Accessories: Bends, Branches, Access Pipes, Offsets, Shoes, Rainwater Heads.
Care and Maintenance of Cast Iron Gutters and Pipes
Cast iron rainwater systems are celebrated for their strength, durability, and timeless aesthetic, but like all quality materials, they benefit from regular care to ensure longevity. With routine maintenance, a cast iron gutter and downpipe installation can offer a service life of 40 years or more. Here’s how to keep your cast iron guttering in excellent condition:
Routine Gutter and Downpipe Inspection
Maintaining the integrity of your cast iron guttering system begins with regular inspections. It’s recommended to clean out rainwater heads and gutters and to clear downpipes at least twice a year, ideally at the start of autumn and again at the end of winter. This timing ensures that leaves, debris, and other blockages are removed before heavy rainfall seasons, helping to prevent pooling, overflowing, and unnecessary wear on the fittings.
During inspections, check that all joints, brackets, and other fixings are securely fastened. An adequately maintained cast iron system is designed for durability and should provide dependable service for decades with minimal need for significant repairs.
Ladders and Safety
Avoid resting ladders directly against the cast iron guttering when performing maintenance, even on well-secured installations. The weight and pressure of a ladder can damage or shift the gutter, compromising its alignment and function. Instead, use a stable ladder setup that keeps pressure off the guttering or employ a stand-off attachment to prevent direct contact.
Repainting Cast Iron Guttering and Surface Care
A robust paint finish is essential for protecting cast iron from the elements. Our cast iron gutter systems come factory-primed, but to ensure long-lasting performance, the final paint finish must be maintained and inspected regularly. With proper care, a high-quality paint system can last 6 to 8 years before reapplication is needed.
Maintenance of Factory-Primed Cast Iron: Any installation damage to the painted surface should be promptly repaired with suitable touch-up paint to prevent rust and corrosion. For any cuts made to the cast iron during installation, bare metal must be protected with a fresh application of primer and topcoat.
Routine Painting: Inspect painted surfaces annually for signs of wear and apply new layers as needed to extend the installation’s life. A well-maintained paint system helps ensure a long service life for your cast iron.
Protecting Cast Iron from Harsh Chemicals
Avoid contact with acids, concentrated alkalis, or other harsh chemicals when cleaning surfaces near cast iron pipes and gutters. These substances can damage the protective coatings and metal beneath. Use neutral or mild cleaning solutions around cast iron to prevent accidental corrosion or deterioration.
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Regular care and attention will preserve the beauty and functionality of your cast iron rainwater system, reflecting the enduring quality and charm that Tuscan Foundry is known for. Please feel free to contact us with specific questions on maintenance or to inquire about touch-up products and accessories.