Why aluminium?
Essentially, the most sustainable, durable and high-performance rainwater systems on the market are made from aluminium. 65% lighter than steel or cast iron - the key components of traditional rainwater systems - aluminium’s strength to weight ratio makes it easy to handle and install. It has the longevity of cast iron without the corrosivity and regular maintenance requirements.
However, not all aluminium is created equal. Rainwater systems are continuously exposed to the elements and if low quality aluminium is used, it will eventually corrode. This is why building merchants should be recommending the most innovative marine-grade aluminium systems that are currently on the market which incorporate a naturally occurring protective oxide layer that prevents corrosion, without the need for treatment or repainting.
These systems not only require minimal maintenance but can have a functional life expectancy of more than 50 years. If the marine-grade aluminium becomes damaged, the oxide layer reforms to provide continuous protection.
Aluminium versus PVC
PVC is another material commonly used in traditional rainwater systems. Affordable and lightweight, its ability to ‘snap together’ at the joints works to streamline the installation process. However, the downside is that it can become brittle and prone to cracking, which ends up increasing costs and maintenance requirements in the long term.
Marine-grade aluminium is just as easy as PVC to handle and install but it is much more durable. ‘Snap fit’ solutions are available for quick and simple jointing, along with aluminium composite fascias and soffits, providing a stable backing for gutters to be secured.
But is it sustainable?
Whilst cast-iron and PVC solutions are able to be recycled, the quality of the materials is compromised during the process. Aluminium, on the other hand, can be recycled indefinitely with no detrimental impact on its quality or other outstanding properties, making it one of the most sustainable building materials available.
Moreover, only 5% of the energy is needed for remelting compared to that of primary aluminium production. It is estimated that 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today. With energy efficiency and sustainability being more important than ever in the construction sector, installers and developers will be looking for systems that can be fully recycled at the end of their usable lifespan.
Does aluminium look as good as it works?
Given their visual prominence, rainwater systems should ideally blend seamlessly with the aesthetics of a building. There are a wide range of colour options and finishes available for most aluminium systems. Manufacturers can provide colour plates on request, making it easier to demonstrate the exact finish of specific products. Some are even available with a textured surface to replicate the appearance of cast iron if that is the desired aesthetic.
For customers that are looking to effectively maintain the colour and gloss of their aluminium guttering systems, architectural-grade polyester powder coating (PPC) paint offers unrivalled colour stability and colour retention.