The main purpose of guttering is to efficiently drain water from a roof to prevent problems with damp to a residence. Gutters are typically made of simple half-piping that is positioned just underneath the edges of a roof to allow the water to easily collect as it runs off the roof. There are three main types of guttering found on properties in the UK: PVC, cast iron, and pressed steel. Each type has their relative advantages and disadvantages, so the right guttering for one property may not necessarily be suitable for the next.
PVC
PVC gutters are by far the most common type of guttering used on houses today. The reason they have become so widespread is that they are made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, which makes them lightweight, inexpensive and easy to attach, manoeuvre and maintain. Generally, they are grey or black and do not require any painting.
Cast Iron
Cast iron gutters are typically found on older properties as this was the type of guttering commonly used before PVC became widely available. They are considerably more expensive than PVC gutters, and unlike PVC they do need painting. Cast iron gutters can last a very long time provided they are maintained properly which means painting them regularly, preferably with a bituminous paint. The paint will also help to defend against moisture and rust or corrosive erosion. Cast iron gutters are extremely heavy so their fastenings need to be checked regularly to make sure they have not come loose.
Pressed Steel
These are lighter and substantially stronger than cast iron gutters but they are very expensive and much rarer than PVC or cast iron gutters. They are usually galvanised or primed ready for painting.
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