Conductor Heads & Leader Collection Boxes

Conductor Head Buying Guide: Benefits, Materials & Installation

A conductor head is installed on to a downspout towards the top of the eave.  They are an architectural accent and can really add a touch of class to a gutter system.

Conductor heads are known by many other names, such as leader heads, collector heads, collector boxes, rainwater heads, rain collectors, and scupper boxes. Conductor heads can be used for functional purposes such as making cleaning easier and allowing multiple downspouts to connect into one location. But their primary purpose is all about aesthetics. For instance, copper leader heads are known for being on historic buildings because they have an elegant, classic look.

Many types and styles of conductor heads are available on the market today. They are made from various materials such as copper, zinc, steel, aluminum and come in various designs, colors, and sizes.

Why You Should Use A Conductor Head

A conductor head is a great way to keep your gutters flowing freely. By using a conductor head, you can avoid clogs and keep your gutters clean.

1. Ensures proper roof drainage

If you have a flat roof, you must ensure that the excess water is adequately drained off the roof to prevent ponding. Ponding water can cause the roof membrane to deteriorate and eventually fail. A conductor head can help direct water flow from the building to the downspouts to ensure the rainwater is adequately drained. 

2. Prevents foundation damage

By directing water away from the foundation with a conductor head, you can avoid potential foundation damage such as cracks, leaks, and even structural instability.

3. Keeps the landscaping healthy

Water accumulating around your home's foundation can kill plants and grasses. Also, standing water attracts pests, such as mosquitoes, which can spread disease. Thus, a conductor head is great for keeping your landscaping healthy and free from pests.

4. Enhances the curb appeal

In addition to its functional purpose of directing rainwater away from foundations and landscaping, a wall scupper also adds visual interest and helps to define the boundaries of a property.

Custom leader heads with an ornate design can add a touch of elegance to a home's exterior, further enhancing its curb appeal. When selecting a conductor head for your property, consider one that adds the perfect finishing touch and makes your gutters look more aesthetically pleasing.

Conductor Head Materials

Rainwater heads come in various materials, the most common ones being copper and zinc. Each material has benefits and drawbacks that should be considered when selecting a rainwater head for your property.

• Copper: Copper conductor heads are among the most popular types due to their durability and longevity. Copper is resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for areas with high rainfall or near the ocean, and can develop a beautiful patina over time, adding to its visual appeal.
• Galvanized steel or stainless-steel conductor heads: Galvanized steel is steel with a coat of zinc to protect it from corrosion. While galvanized steel is more affordable than copper, it is not as durable. 
• Freedom Gray Copper conductor heads: If you are looking for an alternative to traditional copper conductor heads, Freedom Gray Copper conductor heads may be the right choice for you. These heads have a gray color, but offer the same corrosion resistance and durability as traditional copper leader heads.
• Pre-Weathered Zinc conductor heads: Pre-weathered zinc conductor heads are made of zinc, and have a pre-weathered finish that helps it blend in with the roof. 
• Painted Aluminum conductor heads: These are made from a durable aluminum alloy that is resistant to corrosion and damage. The heads are available in various sizes and shapes to fit any gutter system. The alloy coating helps to resist fading, chalking and peeling.

Conductor Head Installation

The installation of a conductor head is a quick and easy process that usually takes just a few minutes. If you hire a gutter contractor to install the conductor head, they will make sure it is properly secured for optimal performance.

• Step 1: Location, location, location.  A properly placed leader head is paramount.  While placement can be subjective to individual taste and style, conductor heads are generally installed a foot or two off the corner and a few feet down from the bottom of the eave.  It's best to temporarily place the leader box on the wall and have a look from the ground before permanent mounting.
• Step 2: Install the elbows and weave downspout extensions from the top of the gutter.  The bottom of the lowest elbow should run approximately 2 inches inside the collector box.  
• Step 3: Install the leader box on the wall.  For brick and stone applications you can use tapcon screws, zamac anchors or masonry nails.  For wood, vinyl, aluminum, and composite siding materials a zinc coated hex head screw works best.   
• Step 3: The bottom of the scupper box will have an outlet tube to accept the downspout that needs to be attached below the box.  Simply slide the downspout over the outlet tube and all the way up to the bottom of the box.  Secure the downspout to the outlet tube with a pop rivet or zip screw.

FAQs

Do I need a conductor head for my gutter system?

A conductor head is not a requirement for every gutter system. They do provide additional water flow advantages while adding a unique and stylish architectural accent but many functioning gutter systems work just fine without a conductor head.

How much do conductor heads cost?

The cost of conductor heads varies depending on your chosen material and style. Copper and stainless-steel conductor heads are more expensive than galvanized steel or aluminum and are the most durable.  

Design can drastically add to the costs of a leader head. There are many ornate and intricate designs available that take considerable amounts of labor to fabricate. Some have emblems attached while others are hand hammered for a rustic appearance.

Aluminum conductor heads are a mid-range option but are as durable as premium materials. When choosing conductor heads for your gutter system, it's essential to consider cost and balance it with durability and the style you want. 

Conductor heads can cost as little as $150 for standard pre-finished aluminum boxes to over $1000 for ornate copper collectors.

Can you install conductor heads yourself?

Installation of conductor heads is fast and easy. You'll need a drill with a drill bit, nut driver and possibly a hammer depending on the application. If you can climb a ladder and handle a drill and a tape measure then installing leader heads should be a breeze.

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