Listed buildings
It is a requirement by most planning authorities that Grade 1 and 2 listed buildings of historical interest should use like for like materials when undergoing refurbishment.
In the case of rainwater systems, historically the material used most often is cast iron which has served well over the years, but needs repainting every 5 - 10 years. This, together with the requirement of scaffolding or mechanical access, which is now mandatory, is very costly.
However, the Alutec range of traditional gutter systems accurately replicates the popular British Standard cast iron gutters. This, coupled with the new "Heritage Black" paint finish which emulates the pitted painted texture of cast iron means that there is now a credible alternative to cast iron. Alutec Heritage black has a minimum decorative life expectancy of 50 years which means that no regular maintenance is required.
