Rectangular Pipe Socket Plain

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.

Select your required size and finish options from the product page and add to cart for an instant price. For project quantities, bespoke requirements, or any specification queries, please call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form at tuscanfoundry.com.

Hopper heads are supplied in red oxide primer ready for on-site painting, or pre-finished in black. A full range of Heritage Colours in traditional linseed oil paint is also available on request — please contact us for the swatch chart.

Hopper heads are supplied in red oxide primer ready for on-site painting, or pre-finished in black. A full range of Heritage Colours in traditional linseed oil paint is also available on request — please contact us for the swatch chart.

The H1A is available with round pipe connections in 65mm, 75mm, 100mm, and 150mm diameters. Please specify your required connection size when ordering, as this determines the SKU. If you are unsure of the correct pipe size for your project, our team can advise — call 0333 987 4452.

Prices vary depending on size and finish. To get a quotation, please call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form on the Tuscan Foundry website. The team can advise on the right specification for your project and provide a written quote.

Size selection depends on the distance between the mounting point and the rooflight frame, and the desired throw (opening distance). Our telescopic openers are available in 150mm, 250mm, and 300mm; the screw-jack stay is available in 300mm with a 250mm throw. For guidance on sizing for your specific rooflight, please call 0333 987 4452 or use the contact form.

Yes. Cast iron airbricks are frequently specified for listed buildings and conservation area properties precisely because they replicate the material and pattern of the original Victorian and Edwardian ventilation grilles. Local conservation officers and building control typically accept like-for-like cast iron replacements without objection. We can provide product specifications and material datasheets to support applications.

Our cast iron airbricks are available in three standard sizes: 225mm × 75mm (single course), 225mm × 150mm (double course), and 225mm × 225mm (square format). These correspond to the standard airbrick positions used in Victorian and Edwardian brickwork. Each size is available across the School Board, Louvre, and Ornamental pattern ranges.

With National Maintenance week fast approaching (18th – 25th November 2011), Tuscan Foundry Products Ltd have decided to help period property owners look after rainwater systems by offering big discounts on selected cast iron gutters, pipes and fittings.

Friday 25th November is designated as National Gutters Day and on this particular day, homeowners are encouraged to check their systems for evidence of damage. Repairing sections of damaged cast iron gutter and pipe can help avoid potentially thousands of pounds of damage to brickwork.

Tuscan is offering these savings across a range of profiles and includes both primer and painted stock. The offers will only be available whilst stocks last so visit our website to view our discounted cast iron rainwater goods today.

For more information concerning National Maintenance Week visit the Society for the Protect of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) at www.maintainyourbuilding.org.uk