FAQs

A hopper head (also known as a scupper box, conductor head, or leader head) is a roof drainage component that collects rainwater from a roof outlet or scupper and directs it into a downpipe or rainwater system. Hopper heads are commonly used on buildings with parapet walls or box gutters where water needs to be discharged through the façade. Also, they are commonly used on inverted roof systems.

Traditional hopper heads overflow when debris such as leaves, moss, tennis balls, roof tiles, general debris blocks the outlet. This prevents water from draining effectively, causing water to build up and eventually spill over the sides of the hopper. Its common that the water overflow is not immediately visible and can go unnoticed for long periods.

When a hopper head becomes blocked, water can overflow and track against the building façade. In many cases, this overflow is not immediately visible and can go unnoticed for long periods as it silently cascades either behind the hopper or down the downpipe saturating the facade. Typically, a blocked hopper head isn't diagnosed until a prolonged dry period where these issues become known as salts (efflorescence) or algae growth start to appear on the facade. In many cases, it's not until water staining shows on the internal walls (via penetrating damp) that the occupant becomes aware.

Proper Hopper uses internal fins to suspend debris above the outlet, allowing water to continue flowing beneath. It also includes a high-level overflow spout which can't be blocked to provide a visible warning before damage occurs. In addition, should the hopper need to be located in an area where there are trees or heavy foliage there is a grille (included) which can be added.

Yes, you can paint your 'Proper Hopper'

Although ASA is naturally UV-resistant and incredibly weather-stable, painting it can provide additional protection, enhance durability, and offer custom colors to match existing colour schemes. It will require proper preparation due to its smooth, chemical-resistant nature. To ensure paint adheres properly, you must sand the surface (220-400 grit), clean it, apply a dedicated plastic primer, and use compatible paints like acrylic, enamel, or automotive sprays.It goes without saying that the recommended guidance from the paint manufacturers must be followed. 

Proper Hopper does not rely on preventing debris from entering the system. Instead, it is designed to manage blockages more effectively by maintaining water flow and providing early warning. This significantly reduces the risk of complete system failure and associated building damage.

Proper Hopper is manufactured from UV-stable ASA, a high-performance polymer specifically suited for external use. Unlike traditional uPVC, ASA offers improved resistance to UV exposure, colour fading, and brittleness, ensuring long-term durability in exposed environments.

Yes, Proper Hopper is designed to be compatible with standard UK rainwater systems, including 68mm round and 65mm square (Ogee) downpipes.

It is also suitable for use with US-style downspouts ranging from approximately 60–80mm, making it adaptable for international applications.

Proper Hopper is suitable for residential, commercial, and heritage properties.

Yes, hopper heads should be inspected and cleared regularly to ensure debris does not restrict water flow. Proper Hopper supports proactive maintenance by providing a visible overflow warning when attention is required.

Yes. Blocked hopper heads and rainwater systems are a common cause of water ingress and building damage. When outlets become obstructed, water can overflow and track into the building fabric, leading to issues such as staining, damp, and internal damage.

Industry estimates suggest that defects related to blocked rainwater goods account for hundreds of millions of pounds annually in the UK, and several billion dollars in the US.

Proper Hopper is designed to reduce the risk of undetected failure in roof drainage/guttering systems. By maintaining water flow beneath blockage and providing a visible overflow warning, it helps ensure that issues are identified early - before significant damage occurs.

This supports a more proactive maintenance approach and can help reduce the likelihood of costly repairs and insurance claims.

Yes. Proper Hopper is well suited to asset management and risk reduction strategies, particularly for buildings where water ingress can lead to significant disruption or repair costs.

By addressing one of the most common failure points in roof drainage systems, it provides an additional layer of protection for building owners, managers, and insurers.