Why Important
These gutters are generally found on 19th Century buildings and later. Although they were retrospectively installed on some Georgian properties.
Valley gutters are found in the middle of ‘M’ roofs and take water from both the inside pitches. This double- pitched arrangement channels water towards the middle of the building and not to the edge, as for single pitched roofs. This design was only possible following improved availability of lead sheet and sarking boards to form the sole of the gutter and support the lead sheets.
Parapet gutters are tucked behind the front parapet walls, taking the water from hidden front pitched roofs thus avoiding having visible gutters and downpipes on the front elevation.
What to look for
There are two materials used for gutters on Period buildings; Cast iron and Lead. Cast iron is usually painted, to protect the iron from rust. Lead is usually left unpainted, and is dull grey in colour.
Wall-head gutters, moulded gutters that sit on top of wall-heads, are particularly prone to problems, as they are horizontal. If they overflow, water will pour onto the top of the wall, soaking the wall-head and getting into the building.
If sitting water freezes it will expand and can split gutters. The only remedy is to replace the entire gutter.
When to look
Gutters should be cleared out regularly. Outlets from parapet gutters need to be regularly cleared of leaves and debris or they will become choked, causing the downpipe to backup and overflow back onto the leadwork. Visual inspection should be done at that time.
How to fix
Cast Iron Gutters
If new sections of cast iron gutters are needed they should be replaced like for like with matching profiles. There are several foundries in the UK which still produce a wide range of traditional castings which normally come pre-primed.
Lead Gutters
For more details, select Lead Gutters
Avoiding creating problems
Ensure that there is a programme of annual clearing & inspection of all gutters, hoppers and down pipes, to ensure water can get away without causing problems to the building.