While there are a number of practical reasons why Leaderheads are used, most clients choose to use them purely from the standpoint of ornamentation. Some of the more practical reasons are: a location to collect debris; a vacuum brake for tall downspouts; or to reduce freezing up of the downspout.  If leaderheads are being used, then they are usually placed at the top of the downspouts where the gooseneck or downspout elbow contacts the wall.  Leaderheads are also commonly known by a number of other names; collectors, collector heads, conductor heads, scupper heads, rainwater heads. Click on the style that interests you from the picture below .