We’re often asked for products using different names than those we use at Trade Warehouse—no one term is more “correct,” but mismatched terminology can cause confusion. We hope this glossary aligns your needs with our catalogue so you get exactly what you requested!
Gutter
Synonyms: Trough, Channel
Quite an easy one to start with! This refers to the horizontal channel that runs along the roof edge, catching rainwater and guiding it to the downpipe. We stock galvanised steel, cast iron, aluminium, and copper gutters—all far more durable and sustainable than plastic alternatives.
➡️ Browse our full metal guttering selection: Galvanised Steel Guttering
Above shows the plain Hargreaves Cast Iron Guttering Length
Downpipe
Synonyms: Drainpipe, Rhone
Downpipes are the vertical pipes that carry water from the gutter down to your drainage system. Options include:
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Connecting to a drain grate (via a downpipe shoe)
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Directly linking into sub-surface drainage (with leaf/bird guards)
Pro tip: add a rainwater diverter for water butt collection and easier system cleaning.
➡️ Discover our metal downpipe range here: Galvanised Steel Downpipes
Leaf Guards
Synonyms: Gutter Brushes
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In your gutters: installs along the top edge to reduce leaves entering the gutter itself.
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In your downpipes: steel mesh or guards prevent birds and debris from clogging entry points.
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We also supply “balloon” guards for open soil pipes, ideal for properties near trees.
Hopper Head
Synonyms: Hopper, Rainwater Head, Snow Box
A decorative and functional addition below a gutter that slows water before it enters the downpipe—helpful during heavy rain and adds visual appeal.
Typically used in period buildings, our hopper heads are available in galvanised steel and aluminium.
➡️ Browse hopper heads in our range of Galvanised Steel Hoppers
Above shows a black steel hopper.
Cast Iron Soil Pipes
Synonyms: Cast Iron LCC, Grey Water Drainage Pipes
These external drainage pipes carry wastewater from gutters or internal plumbing. Appropriate for traditional or listed buildings, they match the heritage aesthetic while meeting performance standards.
We supply visible, above-ground soil pipes only—not underground drainage lines.
Offset
Synonyms: Two-Part Offset, Fixed Offset, Swan Neck
Offsets allow you to shift the downpipe position around structural obstructions:
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Galvanised steel: two 70° bends or fixed 60mm pieces (you can put pipe in between)
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Cast aluminium: 112.5° bends for up to 457mm–685mm offset
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Cast iron: fixed offsets at set distances (see product guidance for sizes)
Access Pipe & Rodding Eye
Features a built‑in door allowing access to the downpipe interior for cleaning and maintenance. A rodding eye provides similar access from ground level or underground pipework.
Spigot, Socket & Union
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Socket (female): wider end receiving another pipe
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Spigot (male): narrower plain end inserted into a socket
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Union: allows two spigot pipes to join with clips or seals, easily disassembled if needed
Internal & External Angles
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Internal Angle: used to turn gutters inside corners (e.g. L-shaped builds)
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External Angle: used around outside corners or projections
Downpipe Shoe
Synonym: Downpipe Cover
Fitted at the base of a downpipe to divert water away from the building, preventing splash-back or foundation erosion and giving a neat exit.
For a continuous scheme, pair with our steel or aluminium shoes.
Running Outlet
Also called a wrap-around, Swiss, or prefabricated outlet—this fitting connects gutter to downpipe mid-run. Available with a built-in stop-end or open both sides to drop anywhere along the length.
