PVC Guttering & Downpipes

Preparation is crucial! Choose a PVC guttering system that aligns with the design flowrate of your roof. In addition to typical rainfall levels, an eaves gutter system must withstand intense rainfall lasting at least two minutes. By referring to British Standard BS12056, you can determine the volume of rainwater (in litres per second) that could runoff from your roof. For replacement projects, while opting for a 'like for like' PVC guttering system may seem logical, it's essential to consider the increasing frequency of storms and heightened rainfall. Adjusting your system's capacity accordingly serves as a proactive measure. For detailed instructions on installing your new PVC guttering, refer to our PVC guttering installation guide for a step-by-step walkthrough.

Regularly, exterior wipe downs of gutters and downpipes are advised to preserve their good condition. While conducting this maintenance, it's essential to inspect for any leaking joints. If necessary, the gutter should be lifted, gaskets cleaned, and re-clipped. Additionally, loose swan necks (off-set bends) or downpipe clips should be re-secured as needed. It's also important to inspect any 'grey water' water butts connected to your gutters. Many of these have leaf traps that may require cleaning. For those without leaf traps, there may be a build-up of silt and leaf debris at the bottom, necessitating scooping out and flushing through with a hose.

With the rise in rainfall, traditional guttering systems are facing greater strain. Therefore, we recommend considering an upgraded PVC guttering system with a deeper profile. These systems are capable of managing larger volumes of water compared to conventional half-round gutters, thereby diverting more rainwater away from your home. The decision between square or round profiles is entirely subjective and may be influenced by the architectural style of your home. Additionally, the Ogee system offers decorative detailing and is particularly well-suited for low-level roofs, such as single-story extensions or conservatories, where its aesthetic appeal can be prominently showcased and appreciated.

Gutters are connected using a union, which corresponds to the chosen profile style. Insert the gutter into the moulding up to the 'fit to here' mark and securely clip it in place, ensuring a tight compression onto the gasket seal. Always remember to position a fascia bracket 150mm on either side of any joint or corner to provide additional support. When it comes to joining downpipes, a pipe socket is utilized. It's crucial to ensure that the socket detail of the moulding fits snugly over the lower edge of the downpipe, with the spigot detail then push-fitted into the downpipe below. To maintain joint strength, fit a pipe clip under the socket.

The increasing intensity of heavy rainfall is putting traditional half-round or square PVC guttering systems under strain. In response, newer, deeper round, square, and Ogee PVC rainwater systems have been developed, offering greater capacity. These advanced systems can efficiently manage higher volumes of water compared to their traditional counterparts, effectively diverting rainwater away from your home. Deeper PVC guttering systems offer another advantage: the need for fewer downpipes. For instance, a standard detached property typically requires only one downpipe on the front elevation and one on the back. This not only ensures effective water drainage from the roof but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home's exterior. Additionally, the Ogee system, with its decorative detailing, is particularly suited for low-level roofs, adding a touch of elegance to your property.