Owners of period properties often have cast iron rainwater systems. It is essential to ensure that gutters are resilient enough to withstand leaves, heavy rainfall, high winds, snow, and other adverse weather conditions.
One of the most prevalent causes of gutter failure is poor alignment or sagging, which can result in water running down the building’s exterior, ultimately causing dampness and potential structural damage. Therefore, it is crucial that gutter brackets are correctly aligned, durable, and matched to the appropriate gutter profile.
Brackets must not only possess sufficient strength but also be specifically profiled for proper installation. Incorrect profiles may cause the guttering to twist and diminish its effectiveness in diverting water from the foundations.
Currently, many brackets available on the market are imported from Asia and tend to use thinner gauge material compared to their British-made counterparts. For instance, British-manufactured brackets typically feature a cup thickness of 20 x 3mm, as opposed to the 20 x 2mm found in some imports; similarly, rise and fall brackets produced domestically incorporate a 10mm threaded bar rather than an 8mm one.
While British-made brackets with increased thickness may incur slightly higher costs, this is negligible when compared to the potential expenses associated with substandard bracket performance and subsequent gutter failure.
Historically, local blacksmiths and foundries supplied bespoke architectural fittings and rainwater components for towns and villages. With the decline of these trades, replacing or repairing traditional brackets has become more challenging.
For period properties with cast iron rainwater systems, it is recommended to repair or replace brackets using reproduction cast iron pieces matching the original profile. Mild steel brackets may serve as alternatives but must be robust enough for cast iron gutters, as most standard modern brackets are suitable only for contemporary materials. Choosing a British-made bracket with a substantial cup and thicker thread offers improved durability.
Rise and fall brackets with reinforced threads are especially useful for accommodating roof settlement in older buildings, providing an adjustable solution to fit irregular levels where the rigidity of cast iron guttering would otherwise pose challenges. Existing fascias can help mitigate level differences, but new fascias may detract from a property’s historic character. Where fascias are absent, drive-in rise and fall brackets provide stable support, unless a full roof replacement allows for rafter-mounted options.
Distinct regional architectural styles often dictate the required bracket design, reflecting historical production by local blacksmiths. These profiles exemplify the distinctive heritage of British architecture. Given the decline of traditional blacksmithing, it remains vital to preserve the manufacture of these bespoke brackets through traditional methods, resisting the trend toward mass-produced, standardized solutions.
Top Tips to Maintain Cast Iron Rainwater Systems:
· Clear plants, leaves, and silt from gutters, hopper heads, flat roofs, and drainage channels every spring and autumn.
· Inspect for blocked downpipes, ideally during rainfall to observe leaks, or check for stained brickwork in dry weather.
· Keep ground-level gullies clear; arrange professional cleaning if needed.
· Remove vegetation growing behind downpipes, trimming or eradicating plants as necessary.
· Use a hand mirror to inspect behind pipes where splits and cracks in old cast iron or aluminium may occur.
· Fit bird and leaf guards to soil pipes and rainwater outlets to prevent blockages.
· Check that gutter joints are watertight, particularly during rainy weather.
· Re-fix gutters immediately if they slope incorrectly or discharge onto walls.
· Replace irreparable sections with materials consistent with the originals (commonly cast iron in older properties).
· Regularly paint cast iron components to prevent rust.
· Wear protective gloves as needed and observe all appropriate safety protocols.