Wales-based foundry, Tuscan Foundry Products, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of cast iron drainage products, has reported that many local properties’ gutters are failing during the torrential downpours that are getting worse, year on year. The Welsh foundry is urging homeowners to inspect their rainwater systems now and clear out any debris or leaves.
Blocked or leaking pipes could cause structural damage to many Welsh properties if the water isn’t channeled away correctly. Tuscan Foundry Products, who support the SPAB’s (The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) National Gutters Day (Friday 25th November), is urging homeowners to check that:
Paul Stenning, of Tuscan Foundry Products comments:
“I drive through the towns and villages of Wales every day and have noticed that many rainwater systems are not coping with the heavy downpours we are experiencing. This is because they are either blocked, have plants growing out of the rainwater heads or are leaking, all of which are causing water to run down the side of the house which eventually will cause structural damage.”
Tuscan Foundry Products and SPAB stress that preserving and maintaining a rainwater system contributes immensely to the external appearance of a property as well as its architectural heritage. If sections are beyond repair replacements should be made of the same material as the originals and designs replicated. Original historical sections such as hopper heads may date right back to the early 19th century and should be maintained as part of the building’s heritage.
Always wear protective gloves when necessary and act safely and responsibly.
At Tuscan Foundry we produce an extensive range of fittings and connections for period cast iron gutter systems; including pipe offsets (cast iron swan necks), access pipes, pipe spacers and much more. These are all available in a range of patterns and sizes.
To make repairs and replacements simpler for the homeowner, we are able to provide cut to size gutters and pipes to suit your property. You only need supply us with the size and our workshop, can cut and prepare the section sizes you require. Cast iron gutters cut to size are available in 100, 115 and 125mm profile sizes and cast iron pipes cut to size can be from 65, 75 or 100mm
Sales & Customer Services:
0333 987 4452
Tyn-Y-Clyn
Llanafarn Fawr
Builth Wells
Powys LD2 3LU
United Kingdom
Tuscan Foundry Products, Tyn-Y-Clyn, Llanafan Fawr, Builth Wells, Powys LD2 3LU, United Kingdom
© Tuscan Foundry Products 2022
A deep dive into the history, common issues, and maintenance of cast iron rainwater goods, with a focus on traditional Scottish architecture; cast iron rainwater goods have been a staple of Scottish architecture for centuries, prized for their durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. These qualities are particularly important in Scotland, where the weather can be harsh and unforgiving. They are a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of a bygone era, adding a touch of elegance and historical significance to buildings across the country.
Cast iron’s journey in Scottish architecture began in the 18th century. Its resilience and ability to withstand the challenging Scottish climate quickly gained popularity. The relatively low production cost of cast iron made it a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings, contributing to its widespread adoption.
The 19th century marked the pinnacle of cast iron rainwater goods in Scotland. This era saw the construction of magnificent Victorian buildings adorned with elaborate cast-iron rainwater systems, showcasing decorative hoppers, rhones (the Scottish term for gutters), and leader heads (downpipes). These features served a practical purpose, channelling rainwater away from the building and enhancing the architectural beauty of the structures.