Is it possible to install cast iron gutters and downpipes myself?
Yes, if you're comfortable with working at height and have basic carpentry and plumbing skills. However, cast iron is heavy and brittle, so proper safety precautions and tools are essential. Assistance may be required for lifting and alignment.What tools and equipment will I need?
- Ladder or scaffold (with safety equipment)
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Marker or chalk line
- Angle grinder or hacksaw (with appropriate metal cutting blades)
- Drill with masonry bits
- Wall plugs and stainless steel screws
- Silicone lubricant or jointing compound (bitumen-based)
- Gutter brackets/clips and downpipe fixings
- Rust-inhibitor primer and paint (if not pre-painted)
How do I measure for cast iron gutters and downpipes?
Measure:- Gutter run length from end to end (eaves)
- Roof pitch and overhang to ensure proper fall
- Outlet positions for downpipes
- Vertical drop from gutter to ground drain or soakaway
- Expansion joints or gutter unions every 1.8 to 2.4 meters (standard cast iron section lengths)
- A slight fall (approx. 1:600) toward the outlet
How far apart should I place the gutter brackets?
Typically every 600mm (2 feet), and within 150mm (6 inches) of joints, angles, or outlets. Cast iron is heavy, so secure fixings are critical.Do I need to treat or paint cast iron before installation?
If you're using primed cast iron, yes — you must apply a topcoat of paint before or soon after installation. For pre-painted (black or grey) systems, check for chips and touch up as needed to prevent rust.How do I join cast iron gutter sections?
- Use gutter bolts and a sealing compound in unions or sockets.
- Apply a bitumen-based or synthetic rubber jointing compound to ensure watertight seals.
- Do not over-tighten bolts — cast iron can crack under pressure.
How are downpipes installed and fixed?
- Start from the outlet shoe or hopper head at the top.
- Join downpipe sections using spigot and socket joints.
- Fix to the wall using downpipe clips or ears at intervals of 1.8 meters or less.
- Ensure alignment to the drain and add a shoe at the base if needed.
What safety precautions should I take?
- Always work from a stable ladder or scaffold.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when cutting or handling metal.
- Cast iron is fragile when dropped — handle with care and avoid hard surfaces.
Can cast iron be cut on-site?
Yes, but use a metal-cutting disc with an angle grinder or a fine-toothed hacksaw. Always prime and paint any cut ends immediately to prevent rust.How do I ensure proper drainage and avoid blockages?
- Ensure gutters are installed with a slight fall toward the outlet.
- Fit leaf guards or mesh grates if trees are nearby.
- Clean gutters at least twice a year — more often in autumn.
How long will cast iron guttering last?
With proper installation and maintenance, cast iron gutters can last 50–100 years or more. They're extremely durable but need regular inspection for rust and secure fixings.What are the main advantages of cast iron over plastic gutters?
- Long lifespan
- High strength and rigidity
- Traditional aesthetic (ideal for heritage properties)
- Noise reduction (less “ticking” during rain)
- Fire-resistant and fully recyclable