Ironmongery / Metalwork
Guttering and downpipes
If the original cast iron guttering and downpipes are
still in place it is possible to completely renovate them.
This involves removing, completely re-painting and
fitting back into place with new fixings and seals.
If the existing guttering and downpipes are beyond
repair or have been replaced with plastic, the traditional
look can be reclaimed by fitting new cast iron rain water
goods. These are exact reproductions of the originals and
will require periodic maintenance.
New ‘ cast iron effect ‘ guttering and downpipes are now
available. Made from PVC, they look exactly like the
traditional cast iron, but are lighter, easier to fit and require
less maintenance. Pictured here is a PVC ‘ cast iron effect ‘
downpipe.
Ventilation Grille
Should replacement or additional ventilation grilles be
required, then traditional cast iron grilles are aesthetically
better than air bricks or plastic air vents. Pictured is a new
cast iron vent set into the rendering.
Gates and Railings
Nearly all the original iron railings were removed by the
government during the Second World War. The only ones
left in place were the houses with basement voids next to
the pavement. The gates and railings that have been
reinstated since the war are mostly the thin scroll wrought
iron type which do not look right on period properties.
Cast iron gates and railings are available from certain
foundries, but are very expensive.
Local metal / iron works can make wrought iron gates and
railings to traditional designs. Pictured here is such a gate
and railing, made to our design, which has been galvanized
and painted.
Door furniture
Traditional brass door furniture can either be obtained from
an architectural salvage company or purchased new from a
company producing new reproduction door furniture.
If new reproduction door furniture is used it is best bought
un-lacquered as lacquered brass will eventually tarnish.
The newly fitted letter plate, knocker and door pull can then
be regularly cleaned for a fantastic appearance or left to form
a natural patina.
Brass door Step
Sometimes it will be necessary to replace a damaged or
missing brass covering over the front door threshold.
The new brass will be fitted un-lacquered, so it will need
to be regularly cleaned or left to form a natural patina.
Conservation Rooflights
The traditional appearance of the conservation roof
window very much resembles the appearance of the
original Victorian roof windows. Manufactured from
coated steel and double glazed, this is the conservation
alternative to the Velux roof window.
