GZ1. 5Electric Window Operator 1.5A Power Supply

Rooflight opener handles are available in polished brass, polished chrome, and satin chrome finishes. The polished brass version is the most popular choice for heritage and period interiors. For the full range, visit tuscanfoundry.com or call 0333 987 4452.

All of our cast iron radiators are availbale as standard with a 1/2″ BSP (15mm) connection. We are though also able to supply many of our radiators and valves with 3/4″ BSP connections. Due to the size proportions of some radiators and valves 3/4″ connections may be more suitable.

A hit and miss vent has a sliding plate on the back of the grille that can be opened, partially restricted, or closed entirely without removing the vent from the wall. This allows airflow to be controlled from inside the building, making it suitable for underfloor void ventilation and through-wall ventilation where adjustable airflow is needed.

Yes. Both the satin and polished chrome telescopic rooflight hand winder openers are compatible with Lumen Rooflights and most timber-framed skylights. Call 0333 987 4452 if you need to confirm compatibility with a specific model.

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.

The School Board Airbrick is suited to Victorian and Edwardian terraced housing, mid-century school buildings, civic halls, public baths, and converted institutional buildings. Its plain square-grid face matches the utilitarian aesthetic of late-Victorian construction and is also appropriate for new heritage-style builds in conservation areas.

Yes. The Louvre Airbrick is dimensioned to standard brick course openings and is suitable for direct replacement of worn, broken, or missing original cast iron louvre grilles. If you are unsure of the size required, measure the opening in the brickwork rather than the existing damaged grille.

The louvre face provides directional airflow and offers some resistance to driven rain entering the subfloor void, making it a practical choice for exposed elevations or properties in areas with significant prevailing wind and rainfall. The square-grid (school board) pattern offers a larger open ventilation area but less weather protection.

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 classes. A linseed oil paint finish is also available, which is particularly appropriate for conservation projects.

The drainage and guttering market has matured considerably over the past 20 years and there are now many more product choices for consumers to consider.

Despite the influx of new materials it appears that the benchmark for rainwater systems is still cast iron. Cast iron rainwater goods were introduced in the late 18th Century as an alternative to lead. 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.

It is easy to forget about your rainwater system but it does need to be maintained and inspected at least twice a year regardless of the product material. It does not matter whether the property is hundreds of years old or brand new, the message is the same; ‘maintaining your rainwater system contributes to the external appearance of the building as well as keeping it free from damp and structural damage.