What is an earband on a downpipe?

An earband is a cast iron collar that clamps around a downpipe below the socket and provides the ears used to fix the pipe to the wall. It allows plain, earless pipe to be fixed securely, and ornamental versions add a decorative cast face at each joint.

What is the difference between eared pipe and plain pipe with earbands?

Eared pipe has its fixing ears cast onto the socket. Plain pipe has no ears and is fixed with a separate earband, holdfast or bracket. Earbands let you use plain pipe while keeping a traditional fixed-ear appearance, or add ornament to the elevation.

How do I identify which earband pattern I have?

Compare your earband with the photographs on each product page, which are labelled by pattern letter: A to G, J and K. Alternatively, send us a photograph and the pipe size, and we will identify the closest pattern for you.

What if my earband pattern is not in the range?

We can copy cast a pattern from a surviving example or a dimensioned drawing. Bespoke castings typically take 12 to 14 weeks from pattern approval, and the pattern is retained so future orders are quicker and cheaper.

What finishes are cast iron earbands available in?

Earbands are supplied primed or factory black painted, to match the pipework. Linseed oil paint finishes can be quoted on request for heritage projects.

Are cast iron earbands suitable for listed buildings?

Yes. Ornamental and plain earbands were a standard detail on Victorian and Edwardian buildings, and like-for-like cast iron replacements are the expected approach on listed buildings and in conservation areas.