Downpipe

pete6296

Hi,
My blocklayer has just arrived on site and we were discussing running eve downpipe down through cavity, meaning a total of 3 downpipes excluding insulation in these areas. Our concern was the look of the downpipes on the front of the house.
Any other suggestions?
Someone was telling me of a type of chain that can run from eve, never heard of it but maybe someone has!
Thanks,
Pete

CJhaughey

I have seen three 8mm galvanised chains shackled together top and bottom used as a downpipe, the chains just allow the water to run down without splattering.
I would not put pipes in the cavity, think of what happens if it blocks or leaks......
Also it will create a break in your insulation.
You will need to have a strong enough support to hang the three chains off and it will also have to have enough in reserve in case any pulls on it.

Mellor

I've heard of the chains, but never seen it in person. It looks great in a frost but it would require maintaining, cleaning etc. It could cause staining to facade.

pete6296

pete6296 wrote: »

Hi,
My blocklayer has just arrived on site and we were discussing running eve downpipe down through cavity, meaning a total of 3 downpipes excluding insulation in these areas. Our concern was the look of the downpipes on the front of the house.
Any other suggestions?
Someone was telling me of a type of chain that can run from eve, never heard of it but maybe someone has!
Thanks,
Pete

How about continuing the gutter around the corner and having the downpipe going down the side of the building (depends on the style of gable, ete), I have seen this done to "hide" the downpipes on a number of houses.

pete6296

CJhaughey wrote: »

I have seen three 8mm galvanised chains shackled together top and bottom used as a downpipe, the chains just allow the water to run down without splattering.
I would not put pipes in the cavity, think of what happens if it blocks or leaks......
Also it will create a break in your insulation.
You will need to have a strong enough support to hang the three chains off and it will also have to have enough in reserve in case any pulls on it.

Thanks guys,
Does any of ye know a supplier of these chains or have ye seen them. Interested to see them, i agree with havinh drainpipe in cavity in case of blockage. Also i would be a little concerned about break in insulation as you said.
Thanks,
Pete

Mellor

They are just standard chains, nothing special, it started as a cheap way to do it.

as for pipes in cavity, thats a realy bad idea

ircoha

there are also plastic chains used for this purpose.

As said by others, downpipe in cavity is not a good idea.

bbam

If you find yourself in Newry these chains are used on the front of the Quays shopping centre down at the Sainsbury's side.. It looks fine there in a commercial setting and a modern design.. I cant see it looking in place on a contemporary structure.
Cheers
bam

do google image search for "rain chain" and you will see loads...

10-10-20

I've seen them on older (early 80's) houses in Stillorgan. Nice idea.