Gutter leader heads, also called rain collectors, conductor heads, and leader heads, are an often overlooked aspect of a home’s exterior. But they contribute more than just visual appeal; they keep your roof safe and prevent water damage to your home.
Experts say leader heads make your gutter system more efficient and are worth the little bit of extra expense. And if you get the right one, it can add a nice cosmetic touch to your roofline.
What Is a Gutter Leader Head?
A leader head is simply a large funnel at the top of a downspout that takes in a large volume of water and channels it through the downspout. Its large opening is designed to capture a great deal of water flowing through the gutters to prevent overflow.
It also has some aesthetic appeal. You can find them in a wide range of beautiful patterns, materials, and colors that add a nice touch to any home. Roofing contractors with custom-building skills can incorporate them into your gutter system while simultaneously giving your home a sophisticated, finished appeal.
How Does a Gutter Leader Head Work?
Gutter leader heads sit atop the downspouts, under the soffits. Let’s examine how they work.
- Gutter leader heads introduce air into the downspouts, preventing water overflow, gurgling, and vacuum lock.
- They channel water from a building to the downspouts for proper drainage. By failing to adequately drain water from your roof, especially if it’s a flat roof, you’ll experience roof membrane deterioration and failure.
- Conductor heads hinder foundation damage by directing water away from your home. As a result, you’ll reduce or eliminate the risk of structural instability, cracks, and leaks.
- Leader heads are a great way to prevent damage to your landscaping. An overabundance of water around your foundation can kill grasses and plants and attract pests such as mosquitoes, which can spread various diseases.
- From a curb appeal standpoint, they improve the appearance of a home, with many homeowners attracted to the touch of class leader heads provide.
What Materials Are Gutter Leader Heads Made Of?
Conductor heads can be made from various materials, some with more advantages than others. We list some of the most popular ones used to make this gutter system component.
- Copper: Copper gutter leader heads are arguably the most popular type due to their longevity and durability. As a material, copper is time-tested, extremely resistant to corrosion, and able to withstand heavy rainfall or salty ocean breezes. In addition, it provides visual appeal that other types may lack.
- Galvanized Steel: Galvanized steel has a zinc coating to keep it from corroding. Though it’s a cheaper alternative to copper, this material won’t last as long.
- Pre-weathered Zinc: As the name suggests, pre-weathered zinc conductor heads are made from zinc and come with a pre-weathered finish for easier blending with the roof.
- Painted Aluminum: Painted aluminum conductor heads are made from a sturdy aluminum alloy that is extremely corrosion- and damage-resistant. It also comes in many different shapes and sizes to fit all gutter systems, boosting curb appeal. Due to the alloy coating, this type takes much longer to fade, peel, or chalk.
- Polyethylene: When it comes to budget-friendly options, you can’t go wrong with polyethylene (plastic) leader heads. This polymer is known for its versatility, strength, flexibility, and low cost. It’s easy to process and has decent chemical resistance.
Are Gutter Leader Heads Mandatory?
Leader heads aren’t a mandatory element in modern gutter systems. That said, if your area gets frequent, heavy rainfall, you might consider installing them to prevent overflow from your gutters. Overflowing gutters are the main reason for soffit and fascia degradation. Leader heads collect any excess water from the gutters and direct it to the downspouts for drainage.
In areas with moderate rainfall, conductor heads are often used solely to enhance the appearance of a property. They’re usually installed during gutter or roof replacements or at the time of new construction.
How To Choose a Gutter Leader Head
Before installing gutter leader heads, do your research; don’t just choose a product because it looks visually appealing. There are many options on the market, so we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you make a selection.
- If possible, choose the same material and color as your gutters. Your exterior can look too busy if your gutters and leader heads don’t match.
- Select a type that complements your home’s architectural style.
- If your home is on the traditional side, opt for lead-coated copper or copper leader heads. Alternatively, you can choose the more budget-friendly polyethylene (plastic) option.
- Expect to pay more for larger, more sophisticated leader heads. Your selection should match your budget and home.
It’s always best to seek professional guidance when making changes to your home. Let a roofing contractor know about your drainage needs, outline your budget, and ask plenty of questions.
FAQ on Gutter Leader Heads
The exact cost will depend on your chosen material, size, and style. Copper leader heads generally cost more than aluminum or galvanized steel and last better under pressure. Design is also an influencing factor, as the more elaborate and intricate the conductor heads are, the more the price will climb due to labor.
When selecting leader heads for your gutters, balance cost with durability and style. You can pay as little as $100 for standard boxes or over $1,000 for copper ones.
Yes. The process involves using an electric drill, nut driver, hammer, and safety harness. If you don’t mind climbing a ladder, handling a drill, and using a tape measure, installing your own leader heads should be a breeze.
A gutter leader head is either molded using cases or made from a metal sheet via stamping. While molded products don’t have joints, stamping provides faster manufacturing, more design options, and a wider range of sizes.
Get Professional Installation Services
If you need help figuring out your gutter leader head options, we can help by connecting you to a highly-rated GutterGnome professional who knows the roofing and gutter business. You’ll be able to ask relevant questions and get advice regarding your needs.
Main Photo Credit: Antranias from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License
