When it comes to cast iron, there are a fair few myths that frequently get flung around. From the idea that it’s maintenance-prone, through to its value-for-money (or supposed lack of), cast iron gets an unfairly bad rep. We’re here to dispel some of those myths and set the record straight, setting some cast iron truths in the process…

1. Cast Iron Requires ‘Regular Maintenance’

Cast iron requires no more maintenance than any other building material. Now, obviously, the better you look after it, the longer it’ll last, but that’s not something which is exclusive to cast iron. Using cast iron drains, for instance, provided you keep them relatively clean, and prevent dirt from overly building up, then there’s no reason why your pipes shouldn’t last up to 100 years!

2. Cast Iron is ‘No Longer Available’

Another myth seemingly constantly touted by tradespeople is that cast iron simply isn’t available anymore. Again, we’re not really sure where this myth has come from because there’s as plentiful a supply as ever, and there’s certainly enough to match industry demand.

In fact, traditional materials such as cast iron have actually seen a bit of a renaissance in recent years, with more people wanting to opt for a traditional, well-built guttering/rainwater system, so foundries have matched their output correspondingly.

3. Cast Iron is Expensive

Whilst it’s true that plastic guttering is cheaper than cast iron guttering at point-of-purchase, that neglects to look at it in a longer-term context. Whereas you might need to replace/repair your plastic guttering countless times over the course of your lifetime, once you’ve bought cast iron guttering, the chances are you’ll never need to buy any new guttering, ever again. So, in terms of value-for-money, cast iron is arguably better in terms of what you’re getting over the years.

4. Plastic Guttering is the ‘Better Choice’

There’s no arguing that plastic guttering does a job; it’s functional and serves its purpose adequately enough. But it lacks the more exacting essentials that cast iron pipes offer you, namely longevity, eco credentials, aesthetics and lower maintenance, overall.

Yes, you might be able to more easily purchase some plastic guttering from your local hardware or DIY store, but since when did accessibility become synonymous with quality? Just because you can nip out and get it doesn’t automatically mean you should.

Final Thoughts…

Cast iron pipes enhance any home to which they’re attached; with incredible durability and longevity, a classical elegance in terms of looks, and a guarantee of quality craftsmanship, there are few reasons we can see as to why you wouldn’t want to go for cast iron rainwater pipes.

If you’d like to find out any more about the rainwater goods we offer, then get in touch! Contact Metal and Glass today on 01752 917 497, or email info@metalandglass.co.uk. However you wish to get in touch, we can’t wait to hear from you.