Marley Alutec Replaces Cast Iron System at Sharpham

MARLEY ALUTEC’S Traditional guttering and Tudor downpipes were recently installed at The Coach House, on the Sharpham Estate – a heritage building located near Totnes, Devon. The aluminium products were specified for their sustainability credentials, impressive durability and traditional aesthetic, which replicated the pre-existing cast iron system.

Located in the centre of a 550-acre estate, The Coach House is a Grade II-listed stableyard behind Sharpham House (a Grade I-listed Georgian villa) surrounded by natural beauty. Owned by nature and mindfulness charity The Sharpham Trust, both venues host mindfulness retreats, weddings, training courses and other events – welcoming thousands of visitors every year.

Like many heritage properties, The Coach House originally had a cast iron rainwater system. However, having been exposed to the elements for decades, corrosion had set in, and a replacement was required. The planners decided the new system should be aluminium, due to the durability and recyclability of the material.

Classic Builders Ltd, the construction company responsible for converting the former stableyard to The Coach House, put forward Marley Alutec. “I had used the company’s products on past installations and was happy to make the recommendation to The Sharpham Trust,” said Kevin Hendy, Contracts Manager at Classic Builders Ltd.

“The Sharpham Trust has a strong environmental focus, so it was really important to find materials with a low carbon footprint. The team was really impressed with Marley Alutec and its products, which are manufactured from an infinitely recyclable material.”

Traditional Half Round Guttering System

Kevin opted for the Traditional Half Round 125mm gutter, which is manufactured to the original British Standard cast iron dimensions (BS 8530), along with Tudor 76mm downpipe. Both products were specified in a textured, Heritage Black 80% gloss finish – an option created by Marley Alutec to accurately replicate the look and feel of traditional painted cast iron. The Traditional Half Round guttering system has a flow rate of up to 2.5 l/s and 120m² per downpipe.

All Marley Alutec products are manufactured from marine-grade aluminium, meaning they are incredibly strong and durable. This is partly due to the thin layer of oxide that develops on the material’s surface should it become damaged, meaning corrosion is avoided and ongoing maintenance is minimised. As such, Marley Alutec products have a functional life expectancy of 50+ years with minimal maintenance. What’s more, marine grade aluminium is fully recyclable and does not lose its quality or workability over time.

“Aside from a couple of issues caused by the existing stone wall structure, installing the guttering and downpipes was very straightforward and made easier due to the light weight of the system,” concluded Kevin. “From pricing to installation advice, we received a fantastic service, which helped us to complete the job to a high standard.”

“Marley Alutec provided us with a sustainable, visually attractive guttering system that will last for years to come,” commented Julian Carnell, Director of The Sharpham Trust. “I am really pleased with the result, which is so in-keeping with the original design of the property.”

Find out more about Marley Alutec here. 

Find more information on the Sharpham Coach House here.

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