A BRIEF HISTORYOF… HOPPER HEADS

An overlooked part of a home’s exterior, often seen as simply for ornamental effect, hopper heads actually play a vital role. Fitted just below a gutter, they are designed to collect rainfall, then syphon it into the drain pipes, enabling them to carry up to two-thirds more water by completely filling them. Initially the preserve of the wealthy, hopper heads rose to popularity during the Tudor period after the dissolution of the monasteries, which meant there were large quantities of lead available that could be used to create rainwater goods. Lead designs were used through the following centuries, until the Industrial Revolution transitioned to cast iron due to its affordability and performance. In all eras, hopper heads provided the opportunity to add decoration to the exterior of a home and often featured coats of arms, emblems, dates or initials, revealing fascinating historical insight.