Rectangular Access Pipe

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 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 satin chrome telescopic rooflight hand winder opener is available to order at tuscanfoundry.com. For project or volume enquiries, call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form on our website.

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. 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.

This opener is particularly well suited to period and heritage properties — Georgian and Victorian terraces, conservation area houses, traditional orangeries, and listed buildings where a brass finish is required to complement existing ironmongery. It is compatible with Lumen Rooflights and most timber-framed skylights.

Prices are shown on each product page. For project quantities, bespoke specifications, or conservation-related queries, please call us on 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form on our website.

Satin chrome has a brushed, low-sheen finish suited to contemporary interiors, while polished chrome has a bright mirror finish. Both are available in the telescopic hand winder range at Tuscan Foundry. The choice typically depends on the existing ironmongery specification.

The Antique Black cast iron version is suitable for external use. The Polished Lacquered version is best suited to interiors or sheltered external locations where the polished finish will be protected from weathering. The Polished Brass version is suited to interior and semi-exposed locations. For external applications on exposed elevations, the Antique Black finish is the recommended specification.

The Brass Rooflight Hand Winder Opener – Telescopic is available in 150mm, 250mm, and 300mm sizes. The telescopic mechanism provides flexibility to accommodate varying rooflight positions and throw requirements. Throw: 165mm.