Here at Alumasc, we pride ourselves on a long standing reputation for quality products and technical expertise…but like everyone else, we had to start somewhere.

Sterling Metals Factory circa. 1941

In fact, delving into the Alumasc archives will take you back to 1941 when we started life as Sterling Metals, with a mainly female workforce, specialising in the manufacture of war materials which were used during World War Two.

Due to the urgency of war, we became expert at finding ways to speed up the process of low pressure die casting aluminium…and so it began.

Once the war was over, the Sterling Metals factory was no longer needed by the government and a buy-out was organised, in partnership with London-based A Strauss and Company. The initials ASC were added to the word ‘Aluminium’ and the new company name Alumasc was born. The expertise acquired during wartime was then put to use in peacetime for the manufacture of goods for the commercial market.

The move from war material production to peacetime manufacturing also meant that Alumasc had to find new market niches and customers. The first range to be brought out was “Holloware” Aluminium cook and bakeware. There was a ready market for it, and it was also a suitable product for teaching unskilled workers the new manufacturing processes involved in producing goods made from aluminium.

As output grew, new skills were learned and the company became profitable, new machinery was acquired, and the company diversified its range to include things like rainwater goods such as downpipes and gutters. By 1948, the number of customer firms supplied by Alumasc had increased from 1 to 44.

Between 1949 and 1950 the company range expanded further to include products for the textile and catering industries  and the brewery trade. The 1950s brought steady growth in range and output, and the increase in facilities and technology saw the factory grow in size. The customer base rose to 1100.

Further consolidation and expansion took place in the 1960s and growth in the popularity of metal kegs being used to deliver beer took over from wooden barrels, which led to a large order from Guinness.

The product range was then expanded further to include the manufacture of castings for the motor trade. Further diversification came with the development of brass casting and by the mid-60s, the company employed about 750 people.

Since then the company has consolidated its position and broadened its product range, responding to customer needs with the same expertise and investment which it pioneered at its inception.

Much of the manufacturing process and related technology may have changed, but the present-day workforce follows in the traditions of manufacturing excellence laid down over half a century ago, and the company’s list of major customers testifies to the standards it achieves and maintains.

The company continues to be a market leader in the manufacture and supply of Cast Iron and Aluminium Rainwater products with our installations being found on massively prestigious projects such as The Imperial War Museum and Marylebone Train Station. All of which, we hope are around in another 60 years as testament to the quality of our products.

Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium Rainwater System has provided a high performance solution for Luton Hoo in Bedfordshire – an eighteenth century mansion now in use as a five star hotel, golf and spa.

The original Grade I Listed Mansion House at Luton Hoo was designed by Robert Adam, with gardens created by Capability Brown. The estate was acquired by the Elite Hotels Group in 1999 and underwent an extensive restoration and refurbishment programme to create the present-day luxury hotel.

Alumasc Heritage Aluminium 125mm half-round gutter profile and 102mm downpipe has been used on the most recent phase. This work involved the refurbishment and construction of a number of buildings including the Parkland Wing, the Garden Wing and Stables conversion.

Clague Architects specified the Heritage system as it was in keeping with both the new and refurbished areas which have been designed to carefully respect the setting of the historic estate. It was also important that Alumasc was able to offer technical and on-site support throughout the installation.

Heritage Cast Aluminium is also available ex-stock with the popular textured black PPC finish, in Half Round 4”, 4½” and 5” profiles and Circular Pipe in 2½” and 3” diameters, offering an unrivalled lead time of 3 days.  Alumasc are the only manufacturer to supply their Aluminium Rainwater Systems accredited with BBA Approved Powder Coatings.

For more information on Heritage Cast Aluminium click here



Alumasc Rainwater is delighted to announce its recent partnership with Stormsaver, the UK market leader in Commercial Rainwater Harvesting.

The two industry giants have joined forces to provide the construction industry with a one stop solution for rainwater management and recycling. The partnership, was launched at Ecobuild 2012, and brings together Alumasc’s experience in roofing and rainwater run-off with Stormsaver’s expertise in the collection, filtration and reuse of rainwater.

As one of the leading suppliers of metal rainwater goods in the UK, Alumasc has provided roofing and guttering solutions for some of the most prestigious sites in the UK and was keen to associate with an industry heavyweight who could work with them to provide an unrivalled environmental solution to a joint client base.

Managing Director for Alumasc Rainwater, Paul Hetherington, explains, “Over the last few years, we’ve seen considerable growth in demand for sustainable building products, with our clients looking to reduce their environmental impact and cut their energy and water use.

“Stormsaver’s rainwater harvesting systems reflect our high quality standards, have proven effectiveness and will give our clients great value for money. That’s why Stormsaver was the obvious choice for Alumasc to partner with.”

Stormsaver’s Managing Director Michael Farnsworth comments, “Alumasc are the ideal partner for us and share our ethos for top build quality. Our combined expertise will provide the construction industry with a one-stop solution for rainwater goods that deliver a return on investment by recycling rainwater.”

For more information, call Alumasc on 01744 648400 or Stormsaver on 0844 884 0015

Alumasc have announced that it is to supply its Alumasc Rainwater and Harmer Drainage range through two of the UK’s leading independent merchant buyers groups, resulting in a great deal for members and their customers.

Alumasc is now a Preferred Supplier for The Combined Buying Association (CBA) Group which supports leading independent builders, timber and plumbers’ merchants, and an Approved Supplier for the H&B Group – the UK’s fastest growing buying organisation for independent builders’ merchants.

John Coe, Rainwater and Drainage Business Manager at Alumasc, comments “This deal is excellent news for the members of both CBA and H&B, providing customers with wider access to Alumasc’s market- leading range of Alumasc Rainwater and Harmer Drainage products.

“Members will also be included within the stockist search facility on the Alumasc Rainwater and Harmer websites and will benefit from referral business from Alumasc’s Area Sales Managers covering the UK and Ireland.”

Alumasc offers members and their customers the most comprehensive range of high quality rainwater and drainage systems on the market, with an extensive range of the most popular Aluminium and Cast Iron rainwater systems now available ex-stock with an unrivalled lead time of 3 days.

The company will also offer excellent support to members to increase sales of these ranges. Stockists will have access to a brand new range of eye-catching Point of Sale material, designed to assist in the stocking and presentation of Alumasc Rainwater systems. Display boards, posters and large external PVC banners are available in a range of sizes, with complimentary mugs for members to give away.

John Coe concludes: “We’re delighted to have finalised the agreements with CBA and H&B as they represent a great deal for the members, their customers and for Alumasc. In return, the agreement gives us a wider independent merchant base for our Alumasc Rainwater and Harmer Drainage offers.”

For details of Alumasc Rainwater systems, click here

For details of Harmer Drainage, click here

A Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater system from Alumasc has contributed to the sympathetic conversion and refurbishment of the former Mersey Street Primary School in East Belfast. 

A sensitive design solution by architects Isherwood and Ellis saw the redundant Grade B1 listed primary school converted into 30 self-contained apartments by building contractors Connolly and Fee Ltd for the social housing provider Connswater Homes. 

As a Grade B1 listed building, the facade could not be significantly altered, leading Isherwood and Ellis to specify Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater system with a black textured finish to replicate the school’s original cast iron system. The Heritage Cast Aluminium range is ideal for traditionally designed buildings and can be used for the direct replacement of cast iron, whilst offering all the benefits of modern aluminium casting techniques and factory finish.

The system, which was supplied by Alumasc approved supplier PFC Rainwater Systems of Newtownabbey in County Antrim, has minimal maintenance requirements and is lightweight, durable and easy to handle and fix. The moulded profile specified for Mersey Street was one of five profiles that are available in the range, alongside a choice of imperial sizes and RAL colours to suit all projects.

The Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland opened the new £3 million development in November and added: “This really is an impressive development and good news for the people of East Belfast. Not only does this innovative project provide much needed new housing in an area of high housing need, but it rescues a much loved historic building of local importance.”

For more information about Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater systems, click here

For details of Cast Aluminium ex-stock and lead times, click here

Alumasc has long enjoyed a reputation for quality and performance, holding its unique position as manufacturer of the most comprehensive range of Aluminium and Cast Iron Rainwater Systems in the UK.

But never a company to rest on its laurels, Alumasc is fully aware of industry changes that affect everyday working methods and continually strives to offer the best products and the best service on the market today.

In a move designed solely for the benefit of Contractors and Merchants in the building industry, an extensive range of Alumasc’s most popular Aluminium and Cast Iron rainwater systems has been made available ex-stock with an unrivalled lead time of 3 days.

With huge stock levels of over £2million being available at any one time, never before has Alumasc’s service been so perfectly tailored to the needs of modern building projects. Furthermore, in an industry first, for projects carrying tight deadlines Alumasc offers an Express Delivery – Next Day Service.

An extensive range of Alumasc’s Apex Heritage painted and primed Cast Iron Rainwater is also available ex-stock, offering the most well-used profiles, namely Half Round gutters in 4”, 4½” and 5” diameters and rainwater pipes in 2½” and 3” diameters, in a high quality 2-pack epoxy primer and top coat finish. Now also available in a range of 8 standard colour options.

Designing your system, identifying the right product and getting it delivered to site, has never been easier – or faster – thanks to Alumasc.

Download the new Alumasc Rainwater Lead Times sheet

An extensive range of Alumasc’s painted and primed Cast Iron Rainwater is now available ex-stock with a 3 day lead-time. The most well-used profiles are available, namely Half Round gutters in 4”, 4½” and 5” diameters and rainwater pipes in 2½” and 3” diameters.

For projects carrying tight deadlines, Alumasc now offers an Express Delivery – Next Day Service for our ex-stock range, ensuring our products arrive on site the next day.

As one of the UK’s market leading suppliers of Cast Iron Rainwater Systems, Alumasc is constantly aware of industry changes that affect the everyday working methods of its colleagues in the building industry.

By removing the need for post-installation paintwork, Alumasc painted cast Iron offers up to a 60% saving on installation time and 30% saving in materials.  

The highly durable 4-coat factory-finish comprises 2 coats of primer, 1 undercoat and a topcoat, which can last up to 7 years before re-painting is required. Now also available in a range of standard colour options.

To search for local stockists, click here

New Rainwater Lead Times

For more details on Alumasc’s Cast Iron Rainwater Systems, click here

Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium Rainwater system has provided the perfect solution for the restoration of a 19^th Century Victorian Park in South Tyneside.

The £5m improvement project at South Marine Park has been carried out sympathetically by South Tyneside Council using historic photographs of the original park as a reference. The seafront park has been restored to its former glory thanks to an intensive programme of works supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, including a new children’s play area, reinstatement of the terrace and bandstands and refurbishment of the rock garden, statues, miniature railway and boathouse.

Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater system was chosen for the new public facilities building, to replicate the original cast iron systems used in the rest of the park.  STP Construction installed a Heritage Half Round gutter system with Heritage Circular downpipes in red to achieve the desired effect.

Heritage is a comprehensive range of traditional gutter profiles, round, square and rectangular pipes and all associated fittings and accessories.  Manufactured using modern casting techniques, the Heritage range is designed to provide all the essential architectural features appropriate to traditionally designed buildings.

A choice of BBA approved polyester powder coatings is available in 16 standard colours with BS or RAL colours available to special order. The range can be supplied to resemble cast iron surface texture or is available in plain mill finish for on-site painting. Heritage is lightweight, durable and non-corrodible, with up to 25 years life expectancy in marine/industrial environments and 40 years in rural/suburban sites. The system is easy to handle and fix, with minimal maintenance requirements.

In accordance with Alumasc’s environmental policy, Aluminium is 100% recyclable.

For more information on Alumasc Rainwater Systems, click here.

Alumasc has recently launched a new technical manual that provides full details on all aspects of its market-leading Aluminium Rainwater Systems. Product selection tables, technical data, NBS specification advice and installation guidance are all available for the well respected Heritage, Aqualine and GX gutter ranges and the Heritage, Flushjoint and Guardian downpipe systems.

Alumasc’s aluminium rainwater systems offer exceptional characteristics both in terms of performance and sustainable credentials. The new brochure covers the environmental benefits of using aluminium, which is 100% recyclable and outlines the many benefits the material offers due to its unique properties and method of manufacture.

In addition to extensive product information, sections of the brochure are also dedicated to our expert Manufacturing and Support Services, Alumasc’s in-house facility for applying BBA Approved polyester powder coatings and to our unrivalled Technical Services Team, who can assist with bespoke system design and challenging installations.

Together with the Alumasc Rainwater website, the new literature forms part of our ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive technical resources for the building industry and unrivalled technical support to Architects, Specifiers and Contractors.

Download the new Alumasc Aluminium Rainwater Systems brochure here or visit www.alumascrainwater.co.uk

A high performance aluminium rainwater system from Alumasc has been chosen for an exemplary private Girls’ School near Ascot.

Heathfield School is one of the UK’s leading private schools for girls. The recent refurbishment and extension of its former dormitory building was accompanied by a newly built performing arts centre, named St Mary’s Theatre, designed by The Tooley & Foster Partnership.

Alumasc’s GX Gutter System and Skyline Fascia Soffits were recommended for the state-of-the-art Centre, by installers Salmon Plumbing Ltd of Surrey. Both systems met all of the project’s rainwater needs whilst perfectly complementing the building’s striking contemporary roof.

GX is a robust and fully engineered box section gutter range, designed for traditional wet jointing on site. Available in three profiles and a choice of sizes, it can be supplied in plain mill finish or with a BBA approved polyester powder coating in a range of colours.

GX is highly resistant to impact damage and is especially suited to meet the architectural and functional requirements for a simple and conventionally installed box gutter, offering a low maintenance life in excess of 40 years in rural and suburban conditions and in excess of 25 years in industrial and marine applications.

The GX guttering was used alongside Alumasc’s Skyline Fascia & Soffit system, which in this case, had a special curved radius, designed by Alumasc specifically to suit the rounded façade of the Arts Centre. Manufactured from high quality, polyester powder coated aluminium, Skyline is designed for new build roof perimeters and is available in four bold generic shapes, as well as bespoke designs.

In accordance with Alumasc’s commitment to the ongoing development of its environmental products and processes, aluminium is 100% recyclable.

For more information on Alumasc’s rainwater systems, click here.

The German Association of the Aluminium Industry (GDA) is to launch a UK press campaign promoting the use of Aluminium across all industry sectors.

Aluminium fabrication at Alumasc

At Alumasc, we have been aware of the true sustainable qualities of aluminium for many years. Despite the material being one of the most plentiful metals in the world, it is also one of the most recyclable. About 75 percent of all aluminium ever made has been in the metal loop since the year 1888, with as much as 95% of aluminium in the construction sector being recycled stock.

Alumasc offer a wide range of high performance aluminium products. The strength, formability, corrosion resistance and overall versatility of aluminium make it particularly suited for use in rainwater and drainage solutions for all types of building.

Heritage Cast Aluminium from Alumasc

Our Aluminium Rainwater range comprises Heritage Cast Gutters, Aqualine Extruded Gutters and GX Pressed Gutters, all available with 3 alternative downpipe systems; Flushjoint, Guardian and Heritage. Compatible aluminium Skyline Fascia Soffit, Anti-Climb and Coping systems complement these ranges.

A recent addition to our Aluminium Drainage product portfolio is the new generation Harmer Shower Drain (also available in ABS compound). Manufactured from LM6 aluminium alloy, Harmer Aluminium Shower Drains are precision engineered to set the highest possible performance standards. Additional, tried and tested aluminium drainage solutions also form part of the Harmer Roof and Harmer Floor ranges.

New Aluminium Harmer Shower Drains

As long as aluminium is economically and ecologically recycled, it will continue to represent an ideal reprocessing and production cycle, making the aluminium processing loop an excellent way of protecting resources.

For more information on Alumasc’s Aluminium Rainwater Solutions, click here.

For a Harmer Shower Drain brochure, click here or call 0808 100 2008. For full details, contact Alumasc Technical Services on 01744 648400.

A unique ‘aerofoil’ shaped fascia soffit system from our Skyline range has been used for the O2 UK headquarters in Slough.

Having won a 2009 International Property Award and a UK Commercial Property Award for its stunning architecture, the striking new building, which forms part of a 200,000 sq ft campus, was also recently short listed for the 2010 RIBA Awards South.

Our technical team worked alongside London-based architects, Nicholas Hare, from the outset, producing a variety of CAD drawings showing how the bespoke Skyline system would appear on different building elevations.

The resulting nosed design has a pointed section supported by concealed webbed brackets. The nosing connects to sloping soffits in modular form which were made in 500mm wide sections so that the joint coincided with the mullions. The installation was carried out by our Approved Contractor, S & J Roofing Ltd.

Skyline is the ideal fascia soffit choice for new build roof perimeters. Manufactured from high quality, polyester powder coated aluminium, it is available in four bold generic shapes plus bespoke designs. As well as design versatility, Skyline offered many benefits to the project. It is lightweight, durable and totally weatherproof, making it easy to handle and fix with minimal maintenance requirements.

Levolux, also part of the The Alumasc Group plc, provided a bespoke Solar Shading solution for the O2 building, helping it to achieve a ‘very good’ BREEAM rating and an EPC rating of B.

For more information on the Skyline fascia/Soffit range, click here or to request literature, call 0808 100 2008.

A ZinCo green roof from Alumasc assisted with the BREEAM rating of Hetton Lyons School in Sunderland.

Minister of State for Schools and Learners, Vernon Coaker MP, has been talking at the recent BSEC conference about his impression of the nations schools.

He described the governments BSF programme as a “real record of achievement” and spoke of the significant change brought about in our primary and secondary schools, touching specifically on the award winning architectural designs that make our modern school buildings “inspirational and exciting” places to be.

Mr Coaker continued “The important thing now is to bring every school building up to the standard that we want. To make them modern, light and airy and environmentally friendly.”

Alumasc’s Aqualine gutter system and Flushjoint downpipes were used on Windygoul Primary School near Edinburgh. The project earned East Lothian Council a Carbon Trust Award for Low Carbon Building.

Alumasc has long been involved in school building initiatives and we are working closely alongside a number of architectural and contract partners on some of the country’s most innovative school buildings. Alumasc’s green roofs, waterproofing systems, thermally efficient external wall insulation and recyclable rainwater systems have all been specified on educational projects to help minimise their impact on the environment.

Let’s hope that by building greener schools, the young generations learning inside them can be confident of a more positive outlook for the earth’s resources.

Alumasc's Aqualine, Apex Heritage Cast Iron and Flushjoint rainwater systems at Upton Grange Eco-Development in Northampton

Our friends at Building Magazine have reported recenty that the Zero Carbon Hub and Energy Savings Trust are calling for a ‘pan-industry marketing plan to promote zero carbon homes and address concerns that they appear experimental and unappealing to the majority of homebuyers”.

Everyday measures to lessen our carbon footprint are becoming second nature to many of us – the very thought of putting an old newspaper, wine bottle or cereal box into the dustbin feels completely alien to me these days and I’m even happy to wait 4 seconds for my lights to come on.

But our houses require a much larger financial commitment, so we are still, understandably, more worried about getting it right.

Sustainable homes need not look any different to conventional homes, if that is what we, as the owners and residents of those homes, want. Whether it be a newbuild or refurbishment project, many solutions are available to significantly improve the environmental performance of our homes whilst maintaining a traditional appearance.

For example, Alumasc’s thermally efficient External Wall Insulation systems can now be used with Cork which is one of nature’s most effective insulators and is harvested from sustainable forests that provide homes to many endangered species. Our Rainwater Management systems are installed out of sight underground and can be used to recycle up to 50% of our non-drinkable water every day, whilst our aluminium rainwater systems are 100% recyclable and offer a sleek appearance to the exterior of any home.

So, there is hope, for the less ‘experimental’ home owners amongst us, who, despite being a little bit nervous of wind turbines and solar panels, still want to do their bit for the planet.

For details of sustainable insulation solutions, click here

For details of Kessel Rainwater Management systems, click here

For details of recyclable rainwater systems, click here

Read the full Building Magazine article here

To view Alumasc’s Environmental Policy click here

When it comes to the speedy installation of rainwater products, look no further than Alumasc’s GX Joggle aluminium box gutter. Designed to make installation up to 30% quicker, GX is light in weight, without compromising on strength.

Trevor Carter at Headley Mechanical Engineering used the new box gutter successfully at Braunstone Frith School in Leicester. He praised the new design saying, “With the new joggle joint on the Alumasc GX box gutter the installation was much quicker and easier. The finished result was excellent and we shall certainly continue to use this product in the future”.

Bad weather generates two main challenges when it comes to rainwater systems; the first being in regard to installation times. As the window of opportunity for outdoor installations lessens during cold, wet spells, alternative solutions such as pre-finished systems, can prove invaluable in getting the job completed quickly and cost effectively between downpours.

Alumasc’s pre-painted Apex Heritage Cast Iron, offers a 3-coat finish with excellent resistance to salt, heat and frost, whilst providing an extended life expectancy and time/cost savings of around 50-60%. By removing the need for post-installation paintwork, systems such as this also represent a saving of around 30% in materials with the additional benefits of a top quality factory finish and the avoidance of costly administration associated with the disposal of hazardous solvent-based waste.

For more information on Apex Heritage Cast Iron, click here

For more information on the complete range of Alumasc Rainwater Systems, click here

Ecobuild is over for another year, with exhibitors now returning to their offices to evaluate the success of the new venue at London’s Excel Centre. 

Alumasc’s stand was a hive of activity for the duration of the show, with main attractions on the brand new stand being 3 Zones focussing on Energy Management, Green Roofing and Water Management.

Alumasc were also involved in live daily seminars discussing ‘Top Tips For The Successful Installation And Maintenance Of Green Roofs In New-Build Properties’ and ‘Practical Applications for Natural Materials’, all of which proved highly popular with visitors to the show.

Alumasc achieved ISO14001 environmental certification in 2007 and is a UK market leader in the provision of sustainable building products.  For more details, click here.

Alumasc’s full range of Rainwater and Drainage products is now available from the UK’s most successful buying group for Independent Builders, Plumbers, Hardware & Timber Merchants – the National Merchant Buying Society (NMBS).

Alumasc have joined the NMBS to ensure the provision of the most cost effective, high-performance water management solutions to the independent market place, encouraging the growth and future success of our independent building sector.

Alumasc will be exhibiting a range of products at the NMBS Exhibition in May – for further information and to register for the event, click here

You can also find us in the NMBS Buyers Guide

For further information on Alumasc Rainwater products, click here

For further information on Alumasc Drainage products, click here

 As Architects, Designers and Specifiers constantly strive to expand their portfolio of sustainable product options, no other building material boasts more environmental credentials than natural Cast Iron. 

Cast Iron is 100% recyclable with no limitation or decline in its properties. It offers a low maintenance life expectancy in excess of 60 years and is the only guttering material to be recommended by the Department of the Environment and the Department of National Heritage, as the most suitable option for the maintenance of aesthetics in historic or conservation planning applications. 

Bespoke Cast Iron solutions at St Pancras Station in London

The Apex Heritage Cast Iron rainwater and Soil Waste range from Alumasc, is manufactured under ISO9001:2000 Quality Management Controls and developed under our company wide environmental policy in accordance with ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management Systems. As such, production processes are monitored for their environmental impact and consideration taken for all aspects of packaging, transport and disposal to ensure the product is as sustainable as possible. 

Apex Cast Iron Rainwater and Soil Waste goods contain no toxic substances and offer impressive cradle to grave performance for embodied energy, water quality, water and ground contamination and minimal long-term maintenance/replacement costs. 

In addition, Apex Gutters and Downpipes are able to contribute fully to achieving BREEAM credits for responsible sourcing of materials and as part of an overall rainwater management scheme.  

The manufacture of any metal is, by its very nature, environmentally intensive, so the more we re-use building products such as cast iron, the bigger the benefits to the planet. 

To view our range of Cast Iron Rainwater Systems, click here

Alumasc has released a new brochure for its Skyline range of Aluminium Fascias, Soffits and Copings.

The Skyline range offers solutions for use at roofing and gutter interfaces with standard and fully bespoke designs available in high quality, in-house powder coated aluminium.

The brochure, which forms parts of a suite of literature designed to support Alumasc’s online resources and technical support services, includes new project photography showing Skyline’s stylish solutions in-situ, new case studies and details of the full range of Skyline components and compatible rainwater products.

To download the brochure click here 

For more information on Rainwater Protection from Alumasc, click here

To further support our Rainwater product offer and technical support services, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Garry Blowman to the role of Cast Iron Specialist with immediate effect. 

In his previous role as Area Sales Manager, Garry worked extensively with Alumasc’s complete range of Rainwater and Drainage products, and will now be based at our office in Burton Latimer, concentrating closely on bespoke Cast Iron rainwater solutions providing design advice and technical support to Architects, Specifiers and Contractors.

Our made to order range in cast iron is specifically designed to yield all of the benefits associated with the standard Apex range, satisfying all the style options for new buildings whilst addressing the challenges of exact replacement for refurbishment and restoration.

Garry can be contacted directly on 01536 720523.

For more details on Alumasc’s bespoke cast iron options, click here.

For the second year running, Alumasc rainwater products have provided winning performance at Wimbledon.

 Skyline aluminium soffit modules have been used for the refurbishment of the public entrance to Number 1 Court Debentures, transforming the once tired area, with exposed drainage systems and pipework, into a contemporary, well designed space, perfect for welcoming thousands of Wimbledon visitors. 

Alumasc’s technical team were involved with the detailed planning and design of the project and the Skyline system was installed by approved contractor Internal Linings of Essex. 

The installation follows the major renovation of Centre Court in 2009 which saw 6500m2 of Skyline Fascia Soffit systems used on the new retractable roof – Alumasc’s largest rainwater product installation to date. 

For the full Wimbledon story, click here. 

For more information on Alumasc’s Skyline Fascia Soffit Systems, click here.

From June 2011, an exciting new advertising campaign for Alumasc’s high performance Rainwater Products will be appearing in the Trade Press.

The campaign features powerful graphics of extreme weather, to drive home a simple message “In extraordinary weather, ordinary rainwater systems just aren’t good enough”.

As the UK climate becomes ever-more unpredictable, Alumasc is proud to supply outstanding quality metal rainwater products which can be designed to withstand a 1-in-500-year weather event. The new campaign is designed to raise awareness of the importance of using quality products and the new ads will be seen over the next 18 months in a range of the most well-read architectural and construction titles and websites.

For more information on Alumasc Rainwater Products, click here

The world of architecture is today celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Sir George Gilbert Scott (13 July 1811 – 27 March 1878).

Scott was the architect of many iconic buildings, including the Midland Grand Hotel at St Pancras Station – a project that became a personal favourite of Scott, who regarded it as his most successful building.

In 2008, St Pancras underwent a massive £800million refurbishment for which Alumasc were commissioned to supply bespoke cast iron rainwater systems to meet the stringent requirements of English Heritage.

Existing rainwater systems, despite being almost 150 years old, were still in use. As part of the redevelopment project English Heritage insisted that any new rainwater details must faithfully reproduce the original patterns of the Victorian rainwater goods used when the station was first built.

Alumasc worked closely with the main contractors to produce bespoke moulds, creating cast iron replicas of all the existing pipes and hoppers to take away rainwater from the vast single span roof, which is still the largest of its type in the world.

For more information on Alumasc’s cast iron rainwater systems, click here

For more information on Alumasc’s made-to-order cast iron products, click here

The Department of Communities and Local Government is today launching its Action Plan for a Working Group to stimulate the growth of the self build housing sector – a move which has the wholehearted support of Alumasc, who recently attended a pre-launch event in london with Housing Minister Grant Shapps MP.

Self builders are Britain’s largest housebuilder and account for about one-fifth of Britain’s new homes each year, but for far too long the aspirations of ordinary people to build their own homes have been hindered by barriers and red tape. With the help of building industry leaders such as Alumasc, Shapps is keen to stimulate the UK self build market by reducing red-tape during the planning process and encouraging lenders to provide mortgages to self builders.

Alumasc has long been a supplier to the UK’s self builders, with its Cast Aluminium and Cast Iron Rainwater systems adorning many self build projects across the country. Paul Hetherington, MD for Alumasc’s Rainwater brand comments: “Alumasc welcomes the new Action Plan with open arms. Many self builders are true pioneers, often embracing new technologies and buildling innovations long before they become mainstream.

“We are delighted to be involved with such positive steps and look forward to seeing the impact these measures have on our future homes and communities”.

For more information on Alumasc’s Rainwater Systems, click here

For more information on the DCLG’s Action Plan, click here

As the world anticipates the London 2012 Olympics, Alumasc looks forward to unveiling the installation of its Aluminium Rainwater Systems and Harmer Roof Drainage on the Athlete’s Village.

A combination of standard and bespoke systems have been installed to the new apartment buildings at the massive Olympic development, including around 5000m of Alumasc’s Guardian and Flushjoint standard systems, copings, guttering and non-standard Stainless Steel downpipes which were designed by Alumasc’s Technical Team.

The rainwater systems have been colour co-ordinated in a range of BBA Approved powder coatings, to complement the design of each individual apartment block.

For more information on Alumasc’s Aluminium Rainwater Systems, click here.

For more information Harmer Roof Drainage systems, click here.

Heritage Aluminium rainwater systems from Alumasc have been used in the remodelling of an historic school building in Surrey.

Oxted School was opened in 1929 as Surrey’s first mixed grammar school. Today it is a secondary school, serving over 2,000 pupils aged 11–18. The original building boasts imposing architectural features but over the years the rainwater system had undergone a number of different repairs using a mix of steel and plastic guttering.

In 2011, Surrey County Council took steps to replace the entire rainwater system with a high performance modern system that would complement Oxted’s character.

Installed by the Breyer Group of Essex, Alumasc Heritage Aluminium provided a low maintenance solution comprising of beaded half round gutters and 76mm round downpipes in black, to create a period look in keeping with the age and style of the building.

Alan Gower, Contracts Manager for the Breyer Group, commented: “Alumasc Heritage Aluminium is quick and straightforward to install, providing a lightweight and very effective system which has worked extremely well for this heritage project.”

Alumasc Heritage Aluminium is an excellent solution for sensitive refurbishment, offering a comprehensive range of BBA Approved traditional gutter profiles, round, square and rectangular pipes and all associated fittings and accessories. Designed to provide all the essential architectural features appropriate to traditional buildings, Heritage is also fully in tune with modern, fast track building contracts. Aluminium is lightweight, durable, non-corrodible and 100% recyclable requiring minimal maintenance and providing a life expectancy of 40 years in rural/suburban areas and up to 25 years in industrial/marine areas. The system is available in plain mill finish or in the Raincote range of BBA Approved powder coatings in a wide range of colours.

For more information on Alumasc’s Aluminium Rainwater Systems, click here

Heritage Cast Iron Rainwater systems from Alumasc have been used at The Lancasters, one of London’s most exclusive and prestigious residential developments.

Overlooking Hyde Park, The Lancasters was originally a parade of 15 magnificent stucco-fronted Grade II listed houses dating from the mid nineteenth century. More recently used as a hotel, it has now been restored and developed into 77 prestige homes. A leading team of developers, architects and interior designers has created a unique fusion of traditional architecture with brand new design and construction.

Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Iron system was specified by the architects Nilsson, for its combination of traditional manufacture and modern quality control standards. The result is a highly robust rainwater solution that provides a visually sympathetic finish to fully complement the stunning Victorian architecture.

The Heritage Cast Iron was installed by Premier Services Installations (PSI) Ltd and comprised traditional 4” downpipes and ogee gutters finished in a bespoke white, created especially for The Lancasters by Alumasc who created a dedicated paint line to ensure the order was completed on time.

A range of Alumasc’s most popular profiles are now available as pre-painted ex-stock with an express delivery option which will ensure delivery to site in 24 hours.

For more information on Alumasc’s Cast Iron Rainwater Systems, click here

A bespoke Heritage Aluminum Rainwater system from Alumasc has played a key role in the major roof refurbishment at Marylebone Station.

The massive £4 million project saw the renovation of Marylebone’s 150-metre long station shed roof covering four of the station’s six platforms. Beginning in May 2010, the works were managed by the main contractor, Morgan Sindall, on behalf of Network Rail, and were completed in January 2011.

With their distinctive red, black and silver livery, the hoppers and downpipes at Marylebone were one of the defining details of the Grade II listed train shed. In order to meet English Heritage guidelines, these cast iron fittings had to be replaced with exact copies. Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium was specified to replicate the original cast iron system, delivering high performance and low maintenance requirements with all the benefits of modern manufacturing technology.

As one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of rainwater systems, Alumasc is renowned for its heritage ranges and ability to replicate historic components. The Heritage made-to-order range in cast aluminium met the needs of the project on every level, and involved high levels of involvement from Alumasc’s technical team who rose to the challenge of replicating the exact historic designs and RAL colours of the original system.

The historic status of the building, restricted schedule and central London location presented many challenges to the manufacturers, suppliers and installers working on it. From the outset, Alumasc liaised closely with BSS Drainage, and installers Cover Structure, in order to plan the schedule in detail, with a lot of work taking place overnight while the station was empty.

On the success of the project, Network Rail route director Jo Kaye comments: “The new roof at Marylebone has made a huge difference to the station environment and provides passengers with a lighter, brighter travelling experience. This is the first of several projects to restore and renew our London stations so it is excellent news that the work at Marylebone has been delivered on time and on budget.”

For more information, click here 

In a move to aid the specification process, Alumasc have developed and launched a unique Drainage Design Calculator Software enabling users to calculate the Drainage requirements for a Project. The software includes the full Alumasc Rainwater Range and the Harmer SML and Roof range.

The unique four-part calculator offers the following:

- Foul Drainage Calculator

- Internal Rainwater Drainage Calculator

- Flat Roof Calculator

- Rainwater Gutter Calculator

Drainage Design Calculator Software

The new software can be downloaded here free of charge, it will then be saved on the users PC with an easy access direct from the Desktop Icon. Users will also benefit from quick NBS Specification generation which links directly from the from the calculator results.

Alumasc has provided a complete rainwater and drainage solution for the award-winning Marriotts Walk Shopping Centre in Oxfordshire.

Located in the town centre of Witney, Marriotts Walk incorporates flagship stores, a cinema, restaurants and 143 new homes. The scheme was designed and built by Simons Group and has recently won the prestigious ‘Sustainable Communities’ Award from the Royal Town Planning Institute South East Region.

Alumasc worked closely with Simons on the design of the rainwater system which needed to suit the character of the historic town centre whilst offering the performance demanded by a contemporary build project.

Carried out by Alumasc’s approved installer Northants Rainwater Systems Ltd, the resulting installation was a combination of Heritage Cast Aluminium, to complement existing architecture in the traditional areas, with Aqualine and Flushjoint for the newly built, more modern areas.

The package at Marriotts Walk also included Harmer Drainage Outlets and the Harmer SML soil and waste system which were supplied in the public facilities across the scheme.

For more information on Alumasc’s range of rainwater products click here.

For more information on Alumasc drainage products click here.