Gutter and roofing contractors call them by many different names: leader heads, conductor heads or gutter heads. However, they all pertain to the same essential component in many gutter and roofing systems. If you take a look at your eavestroughs, they are often connected to your downspouts by funnel-shaped metal elements. These are called leader heads, and they serve an important role in keeping your roof safe.
The performance and longevity of your gutter system and, by extension, your roof and your siding all depend on the quality of your gutter installation. This means all components must be properly installed, including the gutter leader heads.
The main reason why gutter, roofing and siding contractors are seeing a growing demand for seamless gutters is because seams are often the weakest parts of a gutter system. While seams can be avoided when fabricating the eavestroughs, they are unavoidable when it comes to connecting the gutter itself to the downspout. This is where leader heads come into play. They help facilitate a smoother connection between the two, allowing for better water flow handling and proper drainage of your roof.
Leader heads are usually made with the same material as your gutters and downspouts. However, in some homes, copper leader heads are preferred, primarily because of look. These copper leader heads are also treated with ultraviolet (UV) protective coating to help increase its lifespan, which is important because, while gutters and downspouts are easy to replace, a well-designed leader head can be tough to find.
If you’re already due for a roof replacement, consider upgrading your leader heads as well. Don’t just choose products because they look good, however. It’s important to do some research and consult with a professional to find out which leader heads will work best for the water drainage needs of your home.
Get high-quality leader heads for your gutter system with the help of our professionals at Blackstone Exteriors. Give us a call at (515) 720-2158, or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate today.
