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What are Finlock Concrete Gutters?

Finlock is a name that is used to refer to concrete gutters. A company called Royston designed several different styles of Finlock concrete guttering and this was an installation option that was used on properties built between the 1950s and the 1970s. Finlock was only used post-war due to a shortage of steel for guttering NOT because the design was better or more efficient. Finlock gutters consist of horizontal concrete blocks averaging between eight to twelve inches apart fixed together with mortar which attracts and absorbs moisture. This will eventually leak into the cavity and the internal and external walls leading to damp and condensation which can have implications for health problems.

What is the main aim of Finlock Concrete Gutters?

 The main aim of the Finlock gutters was to provide properties with strong guttering to protect buildings from any weather conditions. The roofing of a house is vitally important for protecting the property and equally a strong guttering is essential to support brickwork from any rain, sleet or snow.  Concrete gutters aimed to provide properties with strong guttering that closed the cavity at the top and remain maintenance free. The concrete guttering is fitted to the top of the wall and its cavity. It is positioned to overhang the main structure of the building working as a stormwater guide to the drainage where the downpipes are positioned.

 The problems and signs associated with Finlock Concrete Gutters? 

The first major problem of Finlock guttering is the overall design. This design can have a wide range of effects on properties. One of the first signs of problems with Finlock guttering is usually internal. This can be visible by damp on ceilings and walls mostly on the upper level

of the building. The Finlock gutter system creates a bridge from the outside to the inside of the property. If it is cold and damp outside this is transferred to the inside of the building onto the interior walls and plaster. Other effects of damp are condensation on the windows,

patches of mould on the wallpaper and plaster damage.

Secondly, another fault with Finlock guttering is usually external. This consists of leaks, mould patches and overflowing of gutters on the outside of the property. This is caused by the breakdown of mortar and movement in the concrete blocks of the Finlock system.

Thirdly, Finlock gutters sit at the top of the cavity and the main wall of the house. They are positioned perfectly horizontally. However, this is too level for any water to drain away correctly. Therefore this system allows water to sit permanently in the gutter. In the winter water will expand due to freezing temperatures causing the mortar to break down and any lining that is always temporarily to split. Long term this design is insufficient (relining Finlock gutters is money down the drain).

Another problem that is associated with Finlock gutters is that the original post-war windows were fitted before the Finlock gutters and the steel frame window supported and stabilised the Finlock concrete blocks. However, due to the projection of the Finlock guttering from the external wall, this can cause the gutter to dislodge and bow wherever the weak area of the Finlock gutter is.