Cast Iron Vs. UPVC Guttering

When it comes to weighing up the pros and cons of UPVC and cast iron gutters, remember that there is no inherently superior product. The option you decide upon will be determined by what you’re looking for in terms of durability, style, maintenance and budget.

Both products are robust, having adequate resistance to weathering from water degradation and variable temperatures. They both have long life spans, and will  suit your needs for decades to come.

As cast iron gutters not only have a long lifespan, but one that can stretch into centuries with adequate maintenance, they are preferred by people who either expect their property to stay in the family or in business for a long time, or who need to remain loyal to the period or style in which it was built. This can be the case for listed buildings, or commercial properties that will remain part of an organisation or institution for the foreseeable future.

UPVC guttering, on the other hand, is perfectly suited for homeowners or those with business premises that need first-class guttering but don’t need to secure such a long-term solution, or for whom the initial cost is unnecessary. As cast iron is a more expensive option, it’s easy to consider it a luxury or over-spec’d item, but what it loses in short-term budgetary considerations it makes up for in durability.

UPVC is not only cheaper, but is easier to maintain. Made from a flexible plastic, it won’t crack as it shrinks or expands with rising and falling temperatures. It’s non-porous, which means it won’t decay, and doesn’t need a protective layer of paint as cast iron or wood does. It comes in a variety of finishes, including various colours or natural wood effects, and will suit any property. While it won’t need painting and won’t peel or chip, over the years its colour can begin to fade.

Cast iron, on the other hand, can rust, and small cracks can appear with weathering. The advantage to cast iron is that this will take a very long time, and repairs can easily be made with no more than a standard service.

Choosing the right guttering for your property is an important decision. At ARG, we install literally hundreds of gutters a year. Contact us today to discuss your needs with experts who are committed to helping you make the right choice.