Side Fix Rafter Bracket for Beaded Half Round Gutter (Zinc Plated)

Most old buildings have cast iron rainwater systems that should be maintained and preserved however; these inherent benefits make cast iron an ideal choice for both traditional and modern installations. It is not uncommon to see modern alternative products marketed with terms like low maintenance or easy to install and cost effective. It has even been said that ‘plastic guttering systems provide a way of achieving a traditional look with modern convenience

As well as being easier to produce, the material enabled eaves gutters to be installed more simply, since lead could only be used in this location as a lining for timber gutters. Many modern materials focus on replicating the appearance of cast iron but those materials can vary rarely offer any of the benefits. Cast iron gutters and pipes offer great strength and durability, a proven history of long life, low noise operation and fire resistance.

Most old buildings have cast iron rainwater systems that should be maintained and preserved however; these inherent benefits make cast iron an ideal choice for both traditional and modern installations. It is not uncommon to see modern alternative products marketed with terms like low maintenance or easy to install and cost effective. It has even been said that ‘plastic guttering systems provide a way of achieving a traditional look with modern convenience’.

These terms tend to refer to possible cost savings rather than any real product benefits. It is also difficult to quantify the benefits of modern convenience over traditional build quality. It is worth remembering that all rainwater goods will require some element of maintaining to ensure they are unblocked by debris and remain functional. No rainwater system cleans itself.

Today most suppliers of cast iron rainwater systems offer products in both primer or pre-painted with a 10 year protective coating. When describing modern materials, the term ‘cost effective’ is used rather than simply saying cheap. There is no doubt that the initial cost of many modern materials is less than cast iron but you might be surprised to know that over its lifespan, cast iron will cost around a third of plastic.

The Polished Lacquered finish suits buildings where period ironwork was finished bright rather than painted — formal entrance elevations, listed properties, and settings where the grille contributes to the decorative programme of the facade. It is appropriate for conservation specifications and high-specification heritage new build.

We are able to place dates and initials and insignia onto most of our flat faced rainwater hopper heads.

Yes. Cast iron hopper heads are the historically correct choice for listed and period buildings, and a like-for-like cast iron replacement is generally accepted without objection by conservation officers. We manufacture to BS 460 for genuine heritage character and durability.

The H534 measures 430mm wide x 240mm deep x 366mm high, making it well suited to Victorian villas and townhouses.

Yes. Cast iron rainwater goods are widely accepted by conservation officers and historic environment bodies as the appropriate material for listed buildings. Tuscan Foundry's hopper heads are manufactured in solid cast iron to BS 460 specification and are suitable for all listed building grades. A linseed oil paint finish is also available, which is particularly appropriate for conservation projects.

The Iron Works Patterned Hit & Miss Vents are available in two sizes: 225mm × 82mm (single-course, suitable for standard airbrick positions) and 225mm × 150mm (double-course format). Both sizes are available in all three finishes: Antique Black, Polished Lacquered, and Polished Brass.

The Ornamental Airbrick (OAB) is available in three sizes: 225mm × 75mm (2.8kg), 225mm × 150mm (4.1kg), and 225mm × 225mm (5.8kg). All sizes have a uniform depth of 75mm, making them consistent to install across a subfloor ventilation course.

Yes. Cast iron hopper heads are the historically correct choice for listed and period buildings, and a like-for-like cast iron replacement is generally accepted without objection by conservation officers. We manufacture to BS 460 for genuine heritage character and durability.

The Cast Iron Louvre Airbrick suits Victorian, Edwardian, and inter-war residential and commercial properties where the louvre-pattern vent was the standard specification. It is the correct like-for-like replacement on listed buildings and conservation area properties, and suits new heritage-style construction requiring an authentic period ventilation grille.