If classic cast iron guttering has caught your attention and you’re eager to update the rainwater system on your property, then you’ll need to think about all those essential accessories too.
Vital for ensuring a safe and secure installation, the type and number of cast iron gutter brackets needed for your rainwater management system revamp shouldn’t be overlooked.
Below, we find out why cast iron gutter brackets are so essential, how they should be installed and where they should be positioned to help you create a practical and stylish property exterior.
What are cast iron gutter brackets used for?
Put simply, cast iron gutter brackets are used to secure the guttering to the roofline.
Specifically manufactured to support all our cast iron gutters, our brackets ensure an effective, strong and secure installation.
There are several different types, and the team at Rainclear Systems is happy to answer questions about which are the most appropriate for use at your property.
Where should gutter brackets be placed?
The exact placement of your cast iron gutter brackets will vary depending on the material of the guttering.
Generally, we recommend you position brackets for cast iron gutters at 915mm centres, allowing for the placement of additional brackets on either side of where the gutter joins to outlets.
These measurements will help you to figure out exactly how many gutter brackets your property will require.
However, if you’re positioning gutter brackets yourself, we suggest following the manufacturer’s instructions or enlisting the help of a professional guttering installation expert.
How do you fit cast iron gutter brackets?
After you’ve marked out the positions of the cast iron gutter brackets, we suggest using a string line to set out brackets to a fall of 1:600 to 1:350 (max)
Alternatively, if this isn’t possible, they should be installed level with a helping hand from a long gutter bracket screw.
At this point, you’ll be able to lower the gutter onto the bracket while ensuring there is some clearance to join the gutters. Once overlapped and slotted into place, simply clean and degrease the ends and the sockets, then join together using silicone sealant and a suitable bolt. A few finishing touches (including a lick of protective paint) and your cast iron guttering will be good to go!
How long do cast iron gutter brackets last?
Thanks to developments in the protective coatings and paints used to prevent rust and corrosion from damaging cast iron guttering, these rainwater management systems typically last up to a substantial 50 years!
With regular maintenance and attention during inspections, cast iron guttering can even last up to 100 years.
However, if you want your system to function for that long, then we recommend carrying out regular inspections for any leaks, cracks or holes that could render it ineffective or even unsafe.
Inspecting the brackets that hold the guttering in place is, therefore, particularly important in order to prevent the heavy guttering from falling.
While cast iron is strong and durable, it typically cannot withstand being dropped from a height. Furthermore, the weight and impact of the cast iron guttering falling could cause damage to the surrounding area and pose a risk to passers-by.
Browse cast iron guttering at Rainclear
Retain the authentic character of your 1930s-style Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian property by treating it to the traditional, sustainable and robust cast iron rainwater system it deserves.
At Rainclear Systems, we offer a wide selection of cast iron guttering profiles, including all the brackets and accessories you need to ensure a safe and secure installation. Thanks to our friendly and knowledgeable team, we can help you to find the perfect rainwater management system for your property.
If you’d like to see our products installed, then why not head over to our hub of case studies and customer images that show real-life home revamps showcasing our practical and stylish selection of drainage systems?
With 30 years of invaluable combined experience in this industry, we can offer expert advice, tailored product recommendations and unparalleled customer support.
To find out more about how we can assist with your home renovation or guttering uphaul, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.
You can either speak to a member of our team by calling 0800 644 44 26 or send your enquiry to [email protected].
Alternatively, we also recommend using our contact page to request help with your guttering goals.