Frequently asked questions
Concrete | Finlock Gutters
How long does it take to install aluminium liners?
Installation times vary depending on the size of the property.
Most residential properties with concrete gutters on between 2-4 elevations require 1 full day to install.
If access is restricted and scaffold required we arrange for it to be erected the day before and struck the day after.
​
Many take the opportunity to carry out other works such as painting or roof repairs whilst the scaffold is in situ.
​
There are no additional costs involved in keeping the scaffold up for a short period to do so (up to 4 weeks).
My neighbour is interested too, will we get a discount if we both proceed?
We do offer a discount to both parties if the installation is carried out on the same working day.
​
The benefits of having the liner installed across both properties is that it removes the need for a join between.
​
It is not essential for us to work in this way, but it does minimise a possible point of entry.
​
Below is an image of three properties each measuring at approximately 7 linear meters wide, with an aluminium liner installed in one piece.
​
Since 2016 we have been contracted on an annual basis to install the system on multiple properties for a local authority in Hertfordshire.
How are the liners sealed or joined to a neighbouring property?
Sealing aluminium liners between properties is 4 layer process.
​
Before the liner is installed a bed of water resistant sealant is applied to the concrete gutter.
Next the liner bedded into the sealant and fixed using hammer fixings.
​
Once fitted a further layer of sealant is applied across the top of the join/liner end.
The last step is to apply a layer of fibrous roofing paint across a vast area as shown below.
​
Each step is tapered to allow a smooth transition for rainwater to flow between properties.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
I have been told that removal is my only option, is this true?
There are a few companies that will scaremonger homeowners into believing that removal and replacement is the only option.
In most cases it is not required, which is why you will find the majority of them lined.
​
If we find a property with concrete gutters that are not suitable for lining, we would recommend that the removal option is explored.
Examples of our declining to perform the service would be if the gutter has excessive layers of liquid lining such as bitumen or fiberglass. These are difficult to remove. and the build up of product reduces the volume of water the gutter can hold.
​
Properties with finlock
gutters are usually terraced or semi detached, they often share rainwater pipes too.
Removing concrete gutters from a mid terrace or semi detached property can result in the concrete gutter having to join to a smaller roofline, or it being capped off with the need for pipes to be added further along the roofline.
​
​
I have a waste pipe | Soil vent pipe in my gutters, how do you work around them?
We prefer to remove the waste pipe and either cap it off with an air admittance valve or re-route it, if the need arises.
Waste pipes sitting in the roofline can create a dam effect, with moss and other debris from the roof building up around it and preventing water from getting to the rainwater pipe.
​
Waste pipes are larger than rainwater pipes and can also be found protruding through the roof or routing around the gutter, sometimes they are not present at all.
​
Adapting them does not add significant costs to the service.
My neighbour has the rainwater pipe and does not keep their gutters clear, what can I do?
When sharing a rainwater pipe, it is important that everyone keeps their gutters clear (on any gutter system) to aid flow and allow water to expel where it should.
​
That said, not everyone will prioritise maintenance and it can be frustrating if your neighbours lack of upkeep affects you.
​
If an agreement to clear the full roofline can not be agreed upon (we recommend annually after the autumn fall) , we can bore a new outlet into the concrete and install your own rainwater pipe. This will keep your system working efficiently.
I see you offer a 20 year guarantee, what does it cover? are there any exclusions?
Our 20 year guarantee covers the aluminium liner and its installation.
​
The aluminium used will never crack, chip, split, expand or constrict. It powder coated on both sides and carries BBA certification.
​
We can 100% guarantee that water will never be able to seep through the liner.
​
The installation part of the guarantee is a promise to return at the first opportunity following a report of a problem.
​
We will replace any joint/seal failure under warranty during this period regardless of the condition the roofline is found in.
​
If blocked with debris, we would quote/charge to unblock as this falls under maintenance.
​
How do you seal around the outlet/down pipe?
Does my pipe have to be replaced?
If the existing rainwater pipe is in good working order, there is no need to replace it.
​
We can connect the liner to it using an aluminium pop in outlet (pictured below).
​
The sealing process is similar to the process followed at the end of the liner/property border.
​
On occasion we find asbestos rainwater pipes on properties with finlock | concrete gutters.
Should this happen we would seek a quotation from an asbestos removal company to take down and dispose of the pipe safely - prior to our arrival (usually the day before we installation).
