Established 1893 | BS 460:2002 Certified | UK & International Supply | Expert Technical Support | 0333 987 4452
Price range: £72.00 through £95.68 +VAT
The Iron Works Patterned Hit & Miss Vent in Polished Lacquered is a decorative ventilation grille produced in the classic interlocking foliate pattern of Victorian ironwork, finished to a bright polished surface and sealed with a clear lacquer to preserve the sheen. The result is a grille that catches light and reads as a deliberate architectural detail rather than a utilitarian fitting — appropriate where the building’s ironwork is polished and the ventilation grille is expected to match.
The grille operates as a true hit and miss vent: a sliding plate on the reverse moves across the apertures to open or close airflow without removing the grille. The foliate face pattern — an interlocking arrangement of stylised leaf and stem forms characteristic of Victorian decorative ironwork — sits within a flat outer frame with integral fixing holes for face or flush mounting. Available in two sizes: 225mm × 82mm (single-course format) and 225mm × 150mm (double-course format). The polished lacquered finish is applied over the cast iron substrate and sealed to resist tarnishing.
This finish is best suited to interiors and sheltered external locations where the decorative quality of the grille is the primary specification requirement — entrance halls, reception rooms, vestibules, and other spaces where Victorian polished ironwork is part of the architectural character. It is also appropriate for listed buildings and conservation area properties where existing polished metalwork grilles are being replaced in kind, and where a painted or antique finish would not replicate the original specification.
For listed building projects or conservation specifications, call 0333 987 4452.
| Size | 225 x 150mm, 225 x 82mm |
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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 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.
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.
The Polished Brass finish suits buildings where brass metalwork was standard — formal Victorian terrace housing, civic and institutional buildings, and high-quality estate architecture. It is appropriate on listed buildings and conservation properties where the wider ironmongery specification is in brass and a matching material is required.
Prices are shown on each product page. For project quantities, conservation specifications, or to discuss suitability for a listed building, call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form.
The Iron Works Patterned Hit & Miss Vent suits Victorian and Edwardian buildings where decorative cast iron or brass ventilation grilles were part of the original specification — including terrace houses, civic buildings, churches, entrance halls, and estate properties. It is appropriate on listed buildings and conservation area properties as a like-for-like decorative vent replacement, and on new heritage-quality construction where period detailing is required.
Prices are shown on the product page. For project quantities, multiple pattern orders, or a formal quotation, call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form.
Tuscan Foundry's cast iron hopper heads are available in Standard Black and Heritage Colour finishes. A linseed oil paint finish is also offered — a sustainable, vapour-permeable option particularly appropriate for listed buildings and conservation projects. Heritage colour swatches are available from the team on request.
Yes. Cast iron ornamental vents in period patterns are frequently specified on listed buildings and conservation area properties as like-for-like replacements for original Victorian ironwork. Conservation officers generally accept cast iron in period patterns without objection. We can supply specifications to support planning and listed building consent applications.
Yes. Polished brass is a historically appropriate finish for period and listed buildings and is generally acceptable to conservation officers. If your project requires specific confirmation, we are happy to advise — call 0333 987 4452.
