Guttering & Downpipes
Whatever your guttering requirements, Saltire can help. As Scotland’s premier gutter supplier, we stock a wide range of high-quality uPVC guttering, downpipes and accessories, providing you with everything you need to complete your new rainwater system.
Our guttering and downpipes are available in a variety of different capacities and colours, so you can be ensured your house is protected from downpours whilst also looking good. All ranges come with a 10-year rainwater guarantee, providing you with the peace of mind that you’ve purchased a quality product from a trustworthy company.
Explore our range of PVC guttering
We provide guttering systems for every type of building – for example, our standard and economical 112mm half-round system is ideal for small to medium-sized homes, whilst our SuperDeep 170mm deep flow guttering system offers a high-capacity gutter for commercial buildings or any other building that has a large roof area.
However, whatever size or style you choose, you can be sure that it will be easy to install and even easier to maintain. All systems also come with colour co-ordinated fittings for that truly professional finish.
If you’re unsure which guttering system is right for you, head to your local Saltire branch and talk to one of our friendly, expert team members today.
Guttering FAQs
How to install guttering?
Preparation is key! Select a uPVC guttering system that meets the design flow rate of your roof. As well as normal levels of rainwater, an eaves gutter system must be able to cope with intense rainfall lasting at least two minutes. Visit British Standard BS12056 and you’ll see how to work out the amount of rainwater (in litres per second) that could run off your roof. Replacement projects - When it comes to replacing PVC guttering, it’s only natural to consider “like for like” as the most sensible option. However, you should consider the greater frequency of storms and increased rainfall we now experience and modify your system’s capacity as a positive precautionary measure.
How do I maintain my uPVC guttering?
Regular – but quick! - exterior wipe-downs of gutters and downpipes are recommended to maintain good condition. While you’re there, you can check for any leaking joints and if necessary, lift the gutter, clean gaskets, and re-clip the gutter (a silicone spray can help). Loose swan necks (offset bends) or downpipe clips can also be re-secured. Be sure that you check any ‘grey water’ water butts fed by your gutters as well, as many have a leaf trap that could also need cleaning. Bear in mind - those that don’t may also have a layer of silt and leaf debris at the bottom, which will need scooping out and flushing through with a hose.
How do I repair my uPVC guttering?
Replacement is better than repair when it comes to uPVC guttering. However, regular maintenance will help to reduce the number of times you have to replace or repair your uPVC guttering – saving you both time and money in the long run. If you have any further queries about how to repair your uPVC guttering, talk to a local reputable trader who will be able to guide you through the process.
What size guttering do I need?
Increased rainfall is putting increased pressure on traditional guttering systems so we would recommend investing in a deeper uPVC guttering system. These systems can handle a higher volume of water than a conventional half-round, helping to keep more rainwater away from your home. The choice of square or round is entirely a personal one and will probably depend on the style of your home. The Ogee system includes decorative detailing and is ideally suited to low-level roofs, such as single-storey extensions or conservatories, where they can be seen and appreciated.
How to join guttering and downpipes?
Gutters are joined using a union (applicable to the style of the profile chosen). Fit the gutter into the moulding up to the ‘fit to here’ mark and clip in place, providing good compression onto the gasket seal. Always ensure a fascia bracket is set to 150mm on either side of any joint/corner to provide additional support. Downpipes are joined using a pipe socket. You need to ensure the socket detail of the moulding fits over the lower edge of the downpipe and the spigot detail then push-fits into the downpipe below. Fit a pipe clip under the socket to maintain joint strength.
What are the advantages of deep gutters?
Heavy rainfall is starting to put pressure on traditional half-round or square uPVC guttering systems. New deeper round, square and Ogee (which features decorative detailing that is perfect for low-level roofs) uPVC rainwater systems have greater capacity. They can handle a higher volume of water than their traditional counterparts, helping to keep rainwater away from your home. Another benefit of deeper uPVC guttering systems is the need for fewer downpipes – a standard detached will only need one downpipe on the front elevation and one on the back. Not only is this enough to take water away from your roof, but it also helps to improve the overall look of your home.