The Finlock concrete gutters were first introduced as a cost-effective and durable alternative to cast iron guttering systems. As steel became scarce, concrete was a low-cost and durable alternative. As the use of cavity-constructed walls increased, Finlock gutters also served as load-bearing components in these openings. Read on to find out more about this type of guttering. Now you can have a beautiful and functional exterior without the high cost and hassle of traditional steel gutters.
Problems with Finlock concrete gutters
Those who live in an older home that has concrete gutters are probably aware of the problems with Finlock guttering. Finlock gutters were installed on houses from the 1950s through the 1970s as a cost-effective alternative to scare materials. However, these gutters have proven to be very unreliable over the years. Despite their relatively low initial price, concrete gutters require ongoing maintenance to ensure that they continue to function properly. And it may be a better option to get rid of Finlock gutters, and fina replacement that requires less maintenance and is much cheaper.
When one does not regularly replace the Finlock gutters, there’s a good chance that the residents of the home will be dealing with bridging cold. This happens because cold and warm temperatures cause different materials to expand and contract. Because of this, different sections of the gutter may move relative to each other. The damage that this creates in the concrete gutter lining will eventually result in dampness in the cavity walls and deterioration of the concrete itself.
when considering the replacement of Finlock concrete gutters, it’s a good idea to take a look at the issues with these concrete gutters before making any major decisions. Finlock concrete gutters can be a great choice if the house is older and has a unique design, but some problems will need to be considered before deciding on this option. Luckily, there are a variety of alternatives that can help to decide what’s best for a home.
A common problem with Finlock concrete gutters is that they don’t drain well. As a result, water can build up in them, causing water stains and mould. These problems can be difficult to hide and require replacement. For the best results, it’s best to install uPVC gutters. There are also many other problems associated with Finlock concrete gutters that should be addressed before they get worse.
Finlock gutters were initially created as a cost-effective alternative to steel because of the war effort. They were originally thought to be reliable, but as they age, they begin to fail. They have to be replaced or repaired constantly. Even if they are relatively new, many Finlock concrete gutters have problems with the underlying structure of the home. The main concern for most homeowners with these gutters is their age.
Cold bridging
There are several reasons why cold bridging may occur in Finlock concrete gutters. Often, the culprit is an insufficiently-filled gutter. The cold bridging causes condensation, which then rises to the upper 200mm of the wall. This deterioration can affect the thermal performance of a home. In some cases, it can result in the loss of valuable insulation and even lead to peeling wallpaper and lose tiles on the top of walls. It can also lead to sagging, especially if the gutters are not properly filled. Consequently, sagging can also occur in poorly-repaired windows. These problems can ruin the beauty of a home.
The first step in repairing concrete gutters is to identify where the leakage is. A common source is cold/thermal bridging. A failed gutter may leak water into the property and impact energy consumption. In extreme cases, a home’s insulation could suffer. Furthermore, the walls could be damaged, causing peeling wallpaper and mould growth. Finally, failing Finlock gutters can put pressure on windows, affecting their beauty and functionality.
The best way to fix this problem is to have a professional plumber replace the concrete gutters with a new, high-quality system. Ideally, the concrete gutters are installed on level walls to allow water to drain away properly. If not, water can pool and cause further damage. Another potential cause of cold bridging is a broken seal of the concrete gutter. The water trapped between the two walls may cause condensation inside the home.
In addition to leakage, Finlock concrete gutters are also prone to condensation and mould, which can cause a damp house. If this problem persists, it is best to consider relining Finlock concrete gutters with a new one. This will not only solve the leakage problem but also prevent future problems from arising. This method will ensure that the gutters are free from moisture, making them safer to live in.
Repair options
If one is stuck with old Finlock concrete gutters, one may be wondering what repair options are available. Generally, replacing concrete gutters with aluminium gutters is the best option, as they will last for many years and require minimal maintenance. Another repair option is to replace them with new uPVC ones. These new gutters are durable and are designed to be fit-for-purpose. However, the downside of concrete gutters is that can affect energy consumption, heating and insulation so it may be time to look beyond repair and look into replacement.
Finlock gutters are not particularly effective at preventing water from getting through them. The water can seep through, causing damp growth, and potentially even pests. This can reduce a home’s energy efficiency and cause wallpaper to peel off the walls. One may need to replace the entire gutter if they’re going to repair the problem. Fortunately, there are many repair options available for concrete gutters.
Concrete gutter replacement is the most expensive and complicated option, and it also requires extensive building work. Failure to remove the concrete gutter safely can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of the roof. A technician will take the troublesome concrete gutter off the roof and replace it with new uPVC or seamless guttering. Alternatively, one may be able to fix a problem by applying a new liner to the concrete gutter and patching it.
One repair option that’s available for Finlock concrete gutters is replacing the liner. one may be able to repair the concrete gutter using new aluminium liners, but this option will not fix the problem. However, it’s important to remember that one cannot install new aluminium liners on an old one. This can cause serious condensation problems. Therefore, the more cost-effective option is to remove the Finlock sections entirely. However, this option might not be feasible with a semi.
A concrete gutter, also known as a “Finlock” gutter, was developed in the 1950s and 1960s as an alternative to steel. Although they were cheap to install, they were not reliable, and oftentimes require repairs and replacements. The weight of concrete means that they are difficult to repair, and it can lead to mould and rot. If Finlock gutters are not in good shape, it’s important to contact a company that specializes in Finlock gutter repairs.
Replacement options
If Finlock concrete gutters have deteriorated and are causing problems, one may need to replace them. Although these gutters are very durable, they are not very good at leaking water. If left unchecked, water can cause damp and mould growth. Not to mention a great deal of health risk, so it’s not a good idea to leave these problems alone. Fortunately, there are three replacement options.
To get the best replacement options for Finlock concrete gutters, one should take measurements and consider the type of replacement that is suitable. Relining is a cheaper and quicker solution than replacing. Finlock concrete gutters are often square, which makes them susceptible to cold bridging, which is problematic for energy consumption and heating.
Another option is to replace Finlock concrete gutters with continuous aluminium guttering. If the existing Finlock concrete gutters are made from asbestos, it is very important to have them replaced. This will also prevent cold bridging. To repair Finlock concrete gutters, one must cut the outer wall flush. In addition to cutting the exterior wall, one must remove the plasterboard from the inside wall and apply a 25mm Celotex layer. After completing the installation, one should coat the Finlock concrete gutters with a waterproofing sealant.
Compared to the full replacement of concrete gutters, Finlock gutter lining is more affordable and provides better coverage. Lining concrete gutters is a great option when concerned about frequent repairs. Finlock gutter lining can last six to 10 years and is much less invasive than the costly option of replacing them entirely. It also prevents further damage from occurring and can save money. Aluminium gutters on the other hand can last up to three decades
While lining the concrete gutters can solve the problems associated with existing Finlock gutters, this solution does not provide a permanent fix. It only restores waterproofing for a limited period. However, if concerned about the structural integrity of your Finlock concrete gutters, one can opt for a replacement instead. If you have a concrete gutter, it’s best to consider concrete gutter replacement. Replacement is the best option for the home, and it can solve the problems associated with the existing concrete gutters.