At Rainclear we specialise in metal guttering and we love to see a refurbishment or conservation project. These are some of the most satisfying projects, because we know we are preserving the heritage of our architectural past and keeping the important trade skill alive for generations to come.

This Summer we were approached by a contractor working on a wonderful refurbishment project on a Dorset property. No ordinary property, but a Queen Anne style, Grade I, listed manor house in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty requiring, in addition to substantial renovation, specially designed rainwater heads (hoppers) to match architect drawings.

Hampshire architects, Adam Architecture had a design blueprint which was very specific. So, working with the installing contractor, Rainclear were able to supply a precise casting to match the design required.  Lead shoots were installed to drain rainwater through the parapet into the cast iron hoppers.

Fig 1. Clockwise from top left: Finished bespoke hopper in Rainclear warehouse before dispatch, architect’s drawings and architects colour illustrations, detailed design drawing for manufacture of pattern at the foundry, more images of the finished bespoke hopper.

So Rainclear manufacture bespoke hoppers?

Rainclear’s experience in this field is second to none. Rainclear’s Managing Director, Geraint Jones, is himself a pattern-maker by trade and has extensive knowledge of the foundry industry.  Rainclear work with a number of UK foundries. Each bespoke project is individual so, depending on the complexity of the project, Rainclear uses it in-house expertise to carefully procure goods and works closely with the client, architect and installer to ensure products are made to fit perfectly.

“It’s very satisfying to think that these products will outlast most of us and serve these wonderful buildings for generations. Despite many years of being involved in such projects, it still gives me great satisfaction to be involved in these bespoke projects”

Geraint Jones, Managing Director at Rainclear.

 “We may not be the cheapest you’ll find online, but we have the heritage expertise and genuine care that our customers appreciate and that keeps them returning and recommending us.
It’s like the ‘Pre-painted vs Primed’ Cast Iron question – buying cast iron primed for onsite painting looks like the cheaper option. The upfront cost of pre-painted cast iron is more expensive, but then the long-term cost savings far outweigh the modest initial investment.

Factors such as weather, skill and care of the painter and paint quality have a huge impact on the performance of the paint and, therefore, the life and ongoing maintenance costs of cast iron rainwater systems.

In both cases, you may come to regret opting for what initially looked like a bargain”

Anthony Hitchman, Commercial Director at Rainclear.

What colours can I choose?

Rainclear were the first company to start supplying cast Iron gutters and downpipes pre-painted black. Back in 2014 they were hand painted, but now the pre-painted black cast iron, held in stock for next day delivery, is treated with a certified three-coat system, factory-applied under strictly controlled conditions, which will last up to 10 years before needing to be repainted (It is usually recommended that cast iron be repainted every 5 years but regular maintenance checks should be carried out anyway).

Six other standard factory applied colours are available for delivery in 15 days: Anthracite Grey, Traffic Red, Moss Green, Flower Blue, Oxide Red and Chestnut Brown.

Any standard RAL or BS colour can be bespoke ordered, but with longer lead times and possibly a surcharge depending on the size of the order.

Rainclear is currently offering 40% OFF the Cast Iron rainwater range and free delivery to mainland UK on orders over £300 Net. So, visit the website: www.rainclear.co.uknow and start making savings on great quality Rainwater Systems with Rainclear Systems Ltd.

P.S We’ll be closed from Fri 22 Dec to Mon 1 Jan but you can continue to shop online at any time!
We’ll be back in the office on Tues 2 Jan 2018. Any orders placed for stocked items over the holidays will be despatched on the 3rd for delivery on the Thurs 4th Jan 2018.

Download the Cast Iron price list

Browse & Buy Primed or Black Cast Iron

If you have a heritage refurb, conservation project or even a small DIY job, get in touch with the friendly, knowledgeable team at Rainclear on 0800 644 44 26.