Time for a change
In the search for high quality rainwater systems, installers should focus on solutions that are lightweight and easy to fit. However, it is absolutely crucial that products can still provide the necessary durability, without becoming brittle, or cracking. Only then can systems endure. It’s not just quality of performance – but also aesthetic that matters. As such, it’s essential to find systems that offer good colour stability and that won't fade over their lifespan.
Traditional materials, such as cast iron are able to offer long lifespans, but they are maintenance intensive. In fact, such systems require regular inspection and repainting using corrosive resistant primers to prevent rust and corrosion. Similarly, cast iron systems are very heavy and often require multiple installers and specialist tools to fit correctly. Instead, the industry should look to modern solutions to address these challenges.
Assessing Quality
Much like the broader rainwater systems market, those specifying and installing aluminium solutions must be aware of varying levels of product quality. Certain aluminium systems contain high levels of impurities and will not deliver the same results as those from reputable suppliers. To this end, it’s important for those involved in the process to be able to identify what represents a high-quality solution.
Marine-grade aluminium represents the gold standard in this field. Durable and corrosion-resistant, the material is ideal for external applications, such as guttering. What’s more, marine-grade aluminium benefits from a very high strength to weight ratio, which makes it durable, as well as easy to handle on-site. As a result, solutions manufactured from the material can be fitted and adapted with only standard carpentry tools needed, which makes on-site alterations far easier.
High-quality aluminium rainwater systems also excel in terms of aesthetic appeal and longevity; and can be supplied in a wide range of colours and styles. In particular, polyester powder coatings can be added to enhance the colour stability of aluminium systems, leaving users with low maintenance and attractive finishes. At Marley Alutec we are also able to use this approach to accurately replicate the aesthetic of traditional cast iron gutters and downpipes.