In this article, we examine some of the most frequent challenges you are likely to confront when owning a listed or traditional building in Scotland, including rainwater disposal, cast iron rones (or rhones) and pipes, and increased rainfall.
Proactive maintenance is not just a method, it’s a powerful tool that puts you in control of your building’s preservation. By addressing issues as they arise and clearing obstructions promptly, you allow your cast iron work to cure between waiting cycles. This approach is not only effective in maintaining the condition of your rainwater goods but also ensures that your cast iron work remains resilient and doesn’t dry out periodically.
Its obvious function is water removal, but it does not consistently rain in Scotland. Therefore, if it can dry out periodically, it performs and lasts reasonably well even without paint. For cast iron work, we recommend reapplying paint approximately every five years. In reality, no firm and fast rule exists. It differs between individual buildings. In essence, we recommend that you conduct an annual inspection of any cast iron structures on your property.
Regular inspections are key to maintaining your cast iron work. If you notice any signs of deterioration or problems on the surface, it’s time to take action. For visible areas, we recommend a standard cast iron paint system, which includes a build coat, a zinc-based primer, and a gloss or high-oil gas paint. Always choose mild, dry weather for painting, as applying paint to dry cast iron is the most effective way to protect your work and ensure your new paint lasts.
Therefore, if you decide to paint during the dead of winter, you will be applying coatings to wet ironwork, which will likely result in the premature failure of your brand-new paint. Therefore, in practice, I would strongly discourage painting during winter, when temperatures and humidity levels are especially low. In reality, it is a prescription for catastrophe. You are aware that although you put forth every effort to apply the paint and clean your work before doing so, there are instances when painting the backs of rainwater products can also be problematic. The portion that, depending on the design, is occasionally inaccessible. Moreover, there is no simple solution other than removing them from the building to access the unseen portions at the rear faces.
Nevertheless, everything should remain in order without clear signs of trouble if you keep gutters clean and remove obstructions quickly. Adequate airflow through downspout conduits is essential for drying internal cast iron. Flooding often occurs at gutter junctions, where rones overlap. If tiny holes caused by corrosion are found, a contractor might fix them with epoxy. If corrosion is severe, replacement of the affected section may be necessary. Cast iron is durable yet brittle, prone to fracture under significant force. For example, during winter, if a downpipe clogs and unclogs,
trapped water may freeze, expand, and crack the pipe. The simplest solution is to replace standard pipes with more comprehensive, deep half-round gutters to alleviate this pressure.
Many Scottish buildings will have a parapet gutter, thus, with the lead that rests behind the masonry in the front of the building. This lead area is behind the wall parapet, where water collects before draining through a spigot-like aperture into the cast iron hopper. This is quite ingenious but occurs more frequently than expected in Scotland. The Hopper may appear in order but is highly susceptible to impediment. If that obstruction materialises, an unintended pool will form atop the roof, subsequently inundating the interior of the dwelling and soaking the wood and timber behind them.
Critical Maintenance Areas: Clear downpipes and gutters to prevent internal dampness and structural damage.
Consequences of Neglect: Ignored maintenance can lead to significant water damage, especially during intense precipitation or flooding.
Downpipe Functionality: Proper function is crucial; issues often arise from obstructions or inadequate sizing, leading to overflow.
Structural Impacts: Water overflow can cause staining and damage to the masonry and timber structures.
Historical Structures: Older buildings, such as those from the 1850s, are particularly vulnerable due to aged infrastructure and complex architectural features.
Visual Indicators: Greenery on walls indicates prolonged water exposure.
Importance of Immediate Action: Immediate clearing of obstructions is necessary to prevent long-term damage.
Swan Neck Obstructions: Curved parts of the gutter system, like swan necks, are prone to debris accumulation.
Overflow Risks: Poor gutter alignment or blockages can lead to water spilling, which should be rectified promptly.
Hidden Problem: Underground drainage issues can lead to rising dampness and structural damage if not addressed.
Inspection and Repair: Gully traps and drainage pipes should be regularly checked and cleared to maintain proper water egress.
Regular Inspections: Ensure that drainage systems above and below ground are clear.
Adverse Conditions: Recognising signs of water damage early can prevent extensive repairs and maintain structural integrity.
Regular cast iron and drainage system maintenance is crucial, especially in historical buildings. Monitoring for water damage and blockages, along with professional assessments, helps prevent costly repairs and maintain structural integrity. Adjusting alignment and clearing obstructions, especially during heavy rainfall, ensures efficient water flow. Regular checks of the system’s capacity to handle precipitation are crucial for maintaining functionality and preventing overflow issues.
Continuous Monitoring: Keep vigilant for signs of water damage or blockages.
Engage Professionals: Regular professional assessments can help maintain the functionality of cast iron and drainage systems, preventing costly repairs.
Alignment and Angle: The angle of the rhone or the wall level may be slightly off, potentially due to building settlement, which disrupts water flow.
Obstructions: Blockages in the system are common, especially during heavy rainfall. Even though it may seem counterintuitive, it is ideal to inspect them during the rain.
Inspection Tips: Recheck the swan neck or spigot, ensuring the downpipe end is lower to facilitate proper drainage and the opposite end is slightly higher.
System Adequacy: Regularly assess whether your guttering and downpipes can handle the current precipitation levels, considering any recent changes or repairs that might affect their efficiency.
Tuscan Foundry Products specialises in supplying high-quality cast iron rhones and downpipes to Scotland for heritage and listed building projects. We take pride in our ability to deliver bespoke and purpose-made castings, working closely with householders, contractors, architects, and heritage organisations. Our commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each component integrates seamlessly with historical architecture, preserving the authentic character of these cherished structures. With a blend of traditional techniques and modern precision, we are able to provide reliable and aesthetically pleasing drainage solutions tailored to specific project needs.
Tuscan Foundry can supply cast iron rones and downpipes that match the original with bespoke, purpose-made patterns and moulding. Established in 1893, our business specialises in tradition-oriented cast iron. However, not all cast iron products are identical in thickness and quality. We can offer site and survey visits and provide sample sections to guarantee the purchase of high-quality items.
Sales & Customer Services:
0333 987 4452
Tyn-Y-Clyn
Llanafarn Fawr
Builth Wells
Powys LD2 3LU
United Kingdom
Tuscan Foundry Products, Tyn-Y-Clyn, Llanafan Fawr, Builth Wells, Powys LD2 3LU, United Kingdom
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A deep dive into the history, common issues, and maintenance of cast iron rainwater goods, with a focus on traditional Scottish architecture; cast iron rainwater goods have been a staple of Scottish architecture for centuries, prized for their durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. These qualities are particularly important in Scotland, where the weather can be harsh and unforgiving. They are a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of a bygone era, adding a touch of elegance and historical significance to buildings across the country.
Cast iron’s journey in Scottish architecture began in the 18th century. Its resilience and ability to withstand the challenging Scottish climate quickly gained popularity. The relatively low production cost of cast iron made it a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings, contributing to its widespread adoption.
The 19th century marked the pinnacle of cast iron rainwater goods in Scotland. This era saw the construction of magnificent Victorian buildings adorned with elaborate cast-iron rainwater systems, showcasing decorative hoppers, rhones (the Scottish term for gutters), and leader heads (downpipes). These features served a practical purpose, channelling rainwater away from the building and enhancing the architectural beauty of the structures.