Brett Martin uncovers the benefits in the quick and easy-to-install Cascade system.
The important role of rainwater systems cannot be understated in terms of the aesthetics and long term structural integrity of a house. It’s why plastic has become the go-to solution for builders who want affordability without compromising on performance.
Real cast iron rainwater systems bring a traditional, aesthetically appealing look to a refurbishment project, but they are expensive and time consuming to work with. For builders looking for easy-to-install and economical alternatives, then modern plastic materials can meet customer demands for heritage aesthetics without the cast-iron price tag. They can replace an aluminium or cast iron rainwater specification to deliver projects under budget and ahead of schedule – exceeding both the builder’s and their client’s expectations.
Designed with full consideration to original features, dimensions and detailing, the high quality Cascade pipework, fittings and hoppers create a cast iron look for less.
To ensure each rainwater system can be designed to meet every client’s demands, Brett Martin offers an expansive range of fittings far superior to leading competitors. Through a comprehensive range of gutters and downpipes, which feature authentic architectural detailing and a choice of Ogee, Bath, Gothic or motiffed hopper designs, water butt and planters as well as a complementary soil system, Cascade can provide heritage style and meet the aesthetic requirements of new build where traditional style is required, as well as sympathetic refurbishments and restoration projects.
There are three styles of domestic gutter – 106mm Profiled Ogee, 112mm Half Round and, for larger or steeper roofs, a 115mm Deep Profile – which utilise 68mm round or 65mm square downpipes. For commercial projects there is a high capacity 170mm roundstyle gutter with 105mm round and 4” x 3” rectangular downpipe choice.
Each element has been carefully designed to replicate original features, dimensions and detailing. The Cascade system features a mix of eight heritage colours including Classic Black, Anthracite Grey, Oxford Blue, Olive Green, Graphite Grey, Sandstone Porcelain White and the new Chartwell Green – all of which cater to classic and contemporary schemes as well as reflecting the trend for priming and painting traditional systems.
Safe approach to installation
Because the plastic ranges are so much lighter than cast iron, installation at height is less hazardous, being effortless to lift, easy to manoeuvre, simple to cut and quick to fit. The systems also benefit from external fixing lugs, enabling easy power tool access, which further speeds up installation. All gutter fitting joints have integral seals and flexible retaining clips, allowing the gutter lengths to simply click into place. No extra-cost fixing kits or nuts and bolts are required to make gutter joints, as with most traditional systems. This high performance product is also maintenance free and UV stabilised, so it is not vulnerable to rusting or corrosion and offers a ten year guarantee.
Proven on a variety of projects from new build and domestic refurbishment projects, church and barn conversions, Georgian and Victorian shop frontages, flats and apartments, schools and hotels, the Cascade system has been designed and developed by Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage, using over 50 years’ experience at the forefront of plastics technology and a unique patented manufacturing process to achieve the authentic cast iron finish.
Sustainable manufacturing
With concerns about how industry and the manufacturers of building products impact the environment, Brett Martin’s procurement of a solar installation plant to power its manufacturing HQ in Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland means an incredible 25 per cent of the site’s energy use is now provided by renewable sources. It follows the installation of a wind turbine at the site in 2011 and forms part of its commitment to environmentally sensitive manufacturing practice.
When a traditional aesthetic is a prerequisite, the right drainage system can be the difference between design success and failure. As budgets are increasingly stretched and tight deadlines dictate product specification, contractors must be aware of every product’s cost – in both materials and labour. With a price tag in line with modern construction, and an appearance that blends the past with the present, Cascade should be the builder’s number one choice.
