Mini Guttering is a compact guttering system specifically designed for smaller structures such as sheds, greenhouses, lean-to roofs, summer houses, and bay windows. Approximately two-thirds the size of standard domestic guttering, Mini Guttering typically measures around 75mm (3 inches) across the top. The Floplast MiniFlo system measures 76mm (3 inches) in width and has a depth of 38mm, while the rainwater downpipe connected to this system has a diameter of 50mm (2 inches).
Common Uses
Mini Guttering is primarily installed on garden sheds and summer houses, where its size and capacity are ideal for managing rainwater runoff from these smaller roofs. Installing a guttering system on a shed protects the timber structure from potential water damage. Many sheds experience rot at their base because rainwater runs off the roof and directly onto the ground, causing splashing and pooling that gradually infiltrates the cladding timbers of the shed's walls.
For those unsure about the amount of guttering and fittings required, Mini Guttering systems are conveniently available in Shed Packs. These packs include all necessary components—gutter, pipe, and fittings—tailored for various common sizes and styles of garden sheds.
Mini Guttering is also effective for small lean-to roofs and around bay windows, where the unique 135° angle fittings are advantageous and not commonly found in smaller gutter systems.
Colour Options
The Mini Guttering system is available in four colour choices: Black, Anthracite Grey, White, and Brown. Currently, Black is the most popular option among customers.
Connecting to Water Butts
An exciting development in the rainwater management market is the ability to connect the downpipe from a Mini Gutter directly to a water butt using a purpose-made Rain Diverter. The Floplast RVM1, available in all four colours, is the first rain diverter designed exclusively for mini guttering systems. This innovative diverter allows rainwater to flow directly from the downpipe into the water butt. When the water butt is full, the clever design causes excess water to flow back down the pipe and away, preventing overflow.
Using water butts with shed gutters offers a practical solution for gardeners. Since sheds are often situated at the far end of a garden, it can be cumbersome to transport a hosepipe for watering. A water butt provides a convenient source of water right at hand for various gardening needs.
Installation of Mini Gutters
Installing Mini Guttering follows the same procedure as installing standard guttering, utilizing the same fittings. Gutter and pipe sections come in 2m lengths. Fascia brackets can be mounted directly to the shed wall or packed out with timber if the roof overhang requires it.
The system includes gutter unions, 90° and 135° angles, and outlets, all equipped with integral clips and rubber seals. Outlets are available in running or stopend options, depending on whether the downpipe will be placed at the end of the run or in the center. To ensure optimal water flow, gutters should be installed with a slight fall towards the downpipe, ideally at a gradient of 1 in 350.
Completing the system are offset bends for creating swan necks, downpipe shoes, and pipe clips, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient Mini Guttering solution.
Mini Guttering is an excellent choice for those looking to protect smaller structures from water damage while providing an efficient and aesthetically pleasing rainwater management system.
