What are the Types of Downpipes?

It may surprise you to hear that downpipes come in a variety of different designs, shapes, and materials, so choosing your new downpipe may not be as straight forward as you’d imagine. However, in this blog we look at the different shaped downpipes available and the materials they are made of, to hopefully help make your next downpipe decision easy.

What Are Downpipes?

A downpipe runs down the side of your house, taking water away from your guttering system into the drains below. Their main purpose is to keep water away from the walls and foundations of your home to protect it from moisture damage.

What Shape Are Downpipes?

Downpipes typically come in two shapes, square and round. Round pipes are clip attached to the wall, or are free standing on some houses, whilst square downpipes fit flush to the wall using the appropriate clips.

The shape of downpipe you choose will be down to personal preference, however, the capacity of your downpipe should be your most important consideration. You need to ensure that your downpipe can cope with the amount of water that runs from your guttering system. This amount will depend on where you live, for example there are areas that experience heavier rain fall than others, and the size of your home. If you have a large house with a large roof, more water will run off it into your guttering system. As such you will need a higher capacity downpipe to handle the higher amount of water.

Here at National Plastics we offer 65mm, 68mm and 110mm wide downpipes, so you are sure to find the best capacity for your home and location.

The Types of Downpipes Available

PVC

PVC downpipes are a lightweight yet durable and relatively inexpensive downpipe option. They are suited to both modern and traditional buildings and are available in myriad colours, enabling you to complement your new down pipe with your existing guttering system, windows, and doors.

Cast Iron

Cast iron downpipes are particularly suited to listed and historical buildings. They are extremely strong, stylish, and long lasting but as such, are one of the more expensive options available.

Aluminium

Aluminium downpipes are suited to a variety of buildings, from industrial and new builds to more traditional homes. They are lightweight, versatile, and non-corrodible, which is ideal for a fixture that is exposed to the elements.

GRP

GRP, or Glass Reinforced Plastic, downpipes are perfect for both modern and traditional dwellings. Lightweight and durable, GRP downpipes can perfectly emulate cast iron and lead downpipes, making for a more cost effective, yet still stylish, alternative to real iron.

Copper

Copper downpipes are becoming more popular, especially with those looking for a more contemporary, extravagant finish to the outside of their homes. A strong material designed to last, copper can develop a unique patina over time, giving your home a distinctive look and feel.

Our Variety Of Downpipes

We offer a wide range of PVC downpipes, in a variety of different colours, shapes, and sizes, so we’re confident you will find what you’re looking for in our downpipe collection. If you’re unsure of the best option for your home, call our expert team today on 0800 22 77 77 for a no obligation chat.