BUILDING FABRIC & EXTERIORS
Choosing the right rainwater system
Yeoman Rainguard’s Sally Moores discusses the variety of options available when it comes to rainwater systems, and how to choose the right one for your project
W
ith an abundant choice of rainwater systems on the market, there is certainly no
problem in finding the right, aesthetically pleasing products for your self-build project. With an array of materials, profiles, sizes and colours, there will certainly be a style to match the design of your property.
TICK ALL THE BOXES
Aesthetics, though important, should not be the only thing considered when selecting gutters and downpipes however. The environment the system is going to be fitted in (e.g. conservation or heritage area), water flow from the roof, rainwater harvesting, snow load and lifecycles are just some of the considerations which should be taken seriously to ensure you have a rainwater system which will work efficiently, and last for many years.
GUARDING AGAINST THE ELEMENTS After all the hard work, decision making and expense that will go into a self-build project, it would be wrong to cut corners when it comes to installing a rainwater system. This important kit will protect your property from the ingress of water, guarding the structure against damp and water damage. Procuring a durable rainwater system that will withstand the great fluctuations of weather that come with living on the British Isles, yet which adds to the design of the exterior of the premises, is paramount. It’s also an important to find a system that will not crack or discolour when the temperature rises, one that can withstand a heavy snow load if required without becoming misshapen, and one which is also the right size to take the water flow from your roof.
SYSTEMS CHOICES One extremely durable option is a metal rainwater system, which can easily
may/june 2019
overcome the issues mentioned above. With an assortment of materials to pick from, metal gutters and downpipes allow style and function to collaborate nicely.
ALUMINIUM Available in an attractive paint or mill (raw) finish, aluminium rainwater systems complement both the traditional or modern house. The range of gutter profiles, pipe shapes and sizes, along with a choice of colours and ornate accessories such as ear bands, will help to tailor this product to the character of your dwelling.
A deep flow gutter is able to cope with high volumes of water flow from the roof, avoiding overflow and splashing. Online guides are available to calculate flow rates from roofs, or a reputable supplier will be able to advise you. The gutters will also be strong enough to accommodate heavy snow loads – though the addition of extra fixing brackets in areas of concern is recommended.
Look for an aluminium product which
offers a joint clip fixing method on the gutters. Meaning it does not require mechanical fixings or welding joints, this will make it both quicker and easier to
Aesthetics, though
important,
should not be the only thing
considered when selecting gutters and downpipes
install. Credentials such as 30 years maintenance free service can be combined with UV stability and 100 per cent recyclablity.
CAST IRON
This classical rainwater system type has been popular since the 1700s, and is perfect for use on listed and heritage buildings. A heavier material than aluminium, cast iron offers the same durable properties with a 40 year (or more) life expectancy, however a small amount of maintenance such as
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