Roof snow melt systems, also known as ice dam prevention systems, prevent ice dams and icicles from building up along the eaves of your house. They're fully automated with a snow sensor that detects precipitation and temperature, and operates only when needed.
Types of Roofs
Having an efficient roof snow melt system installed is a wise investment for homeowners living in colder climates. The system, which is designed to prevent ice dams from forming, safeguards not only the gutter system but also the roof surface and roof structure of the home. It also saves on costly repairs, ultimately contributing to keeping your roof in better condition for a longer period.
Icicles and Ice Dams
Icicles and ice dams are dangerous to walk on, and they can easily break off or fall. They can also clog gutters, causing water to back up into the home, and can cause other damage to your property.
How Roof Ice Melt Systems Work
A roof ice melt system prevents the formation of icicles and ice dams by warming the areas around the gutters, downspouts, valleys, and rails. The heating cables maintain a constant temperature that promotes even melting and doesn’t re-freeze along the edges of your roof.
The system works by converting electricity into heat that is directed to the surface of your entire roof. When installed properly, this heat is then reflected upwards into the snow, effectively melting it. The melting snow is then allowed to drain down your gutters and downspouts, preventing ice dams and preserving the integrity of your roof shingles. The system is fully automated and only turns on when there is precipitation and a low temperature. It shuts off once the snow has melted, and the temperature is above freezing again.
Benefits of Roof Ice Melt Systems
An ice dam can cause serious damage to your gutters, roof, and walls of your home, and it can also lead to costly repairs. The system can also lead to mold and other health problems for you and your family. The ice dams can also be a fire hazard, and they can be a tripping hazard for people walking below your roof.
A roof ice melt system is the best way to prevent ice dams from forming, ensuring the safety of most people and materials in your home. The system will help protect your home and your family from expensive repairs, damages, and health issues. A professional technician from Lippolis Electric can install a system in your home and provide you with peace of mind for the winter season ahead. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to request an estimate for a roof ice melt system.
Metal Roofs
Whether you have a standing seam metal roof or another type of roofing system, your structure can be vulnerable to ice dams. They’re known to cause water damage when they build up along the eaves. These thick ridges of ice can loosen the roof coating and even tear off gutters or the roof itself. If you notice ice dams forming on your roof, it’s best to contact a professional right away, and consider the installation of ice melt systems to prevent further damage.
Preventing Ice Dams on Metal Roofs
One of the best ways to prevent ice dams is by installing roof snow melt systems. These heating cables are designed to keep your roof and gutters free of ice dams throughout the winter. They are especially effective in areas where water tends to pool and freeze, such as at a roof edge or overhang, at the bottom of a valley, or in bottleneck areas between different roof features, like dormers and adjacent roof lines.
When you use a roof ice melt system, heat tape or cable is installed directly under the snow that accumulates on your roof. As the ice melts, the water flows through the porous snow and rests on your roof eaves or the edge of the roof. It then refreezes because this area isn't exposed to warm air, causing an ice dam to form that blocks the flow of other melting water from passing underneath the snow.
Advantages of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are better than shingles at reflecting solar energy and insulating against the elements. However, they are not great conductors of heat and do not warm up evenly. The PATENTED HotSeam system, part of the HotEdge system, firmly presses the heat cable against your existing standing-seam metal roof panel along the raised seam, facilitating direct heat transfer to the surface of the ice dam or icicle to create a melt pathway. This prevents ice from refreezing and causing water to push up under the roof panels, which can cause costly leaks inside the building.
Metal roofs can be particularly advantageous during the snowy season. Unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs have a smooth surface that encourages snow and ice to slide off more easily. This characteristic reduces the likelihood of ice dams forming on the eaves of your home, helping to prevent water damage. In problem areas where ice and snow accumulation can be a concern, metal roofs offer a durable and reliable solution. Their durability also extends to withstanding debris and extreme weather conditions. Proper maintenance, including keeping the roof clear of debris, is still essential to ensure the longevity of your metal roof and its continued performance in winter. Overall, metal roofs provide a practical choice for those looking to protect their homes from the challenges of snowy weather while minimizing maintenance efforts.
Flat Roofs
If you own a flat roof and have experienced issues with ice dams in the past winter, it's crucial to consider the best solution for preventing further problems. Roof ice melt systems are especially important for flat roofs, as they can effectively prevent the formation of ice dams, which can loosen roof coatings, tear off gutters, and cause water leaks in the home. These systems are designed to minimize the risks associated with temperature drops, ensuring that ice and snow do not fall off the roof and onto people and property below, providing added protection for flat roofs, even those covered with asphalt shingles.
Using Mats and Heating Cables
These ice melt systems usually take the form of mats or heating cables. They are placed underneath the eaves of the roof. The heat from the mats or heating cables helps to warm the area, which in turn helps to melt the ice and snow that forms. The melted snow and ice then drains off of the roof and is safely deposited in the gutters.
Roof Ice Melt Systems in Conjunction with De-icing Products
Roof ice melt systems can be used in conjunction with roof de-icing products, such as granules, to create an effective solution for removing snow and ice from flat and metal roofs. They are more expensive than traditional ice removal procedures, such as using ice dam salt, a metal scraper, a steam ice dam remover, or other methods. However, they are more cost-effective in the long run and can extend the life of a roof and protect property inside and outside the home.
Self-regulating Heating Cables
The most popular type of roof ice melt system is a self-regulating heating cable. It can be installed on shingled roofs or metal roofs and is designed to prevent ice dams from forming. It can be purchased in pre-cut lengths to fit the size of your roof or it can be customized to your specifications. The heat cable is held down with special male and female raised seam flashings that interlock with one another.
Selecting the Right Roof Ice Melt System
If you're interested in a roof ice melt system, contact a local roofing company for more information. They can help you select the best solution based on the size and shape of your roof and your budget. They can also offer tips and advice on how to maintain your roof ice melt system for maximum effectiveness. You'll find that these systems are more effective and safer than traditional ice removal methods and can save you money in the long run by preventing roof damage and extending the life of your roof, gutters, and pavement.
Tips for Selecting Best Roof Ice Melt Systems
Dealing with ice dams can be a recurring headache for homeowners, involving methods like roof melt pellets and tablets, or labor-intensive scraping and steaming. These solutions are effective but come with the burden of repetitive annual efforts and expenses. A more proactive and efficient approach lies in investing in the right system: a dedicated roof ice melt system, designed to thwart ice dams from forming in the first place, while safeguarding your roof's longevity and integrity.
Maintenance for Concrete Surfaces
Concrete surfaces, particularly in problem areas prone to ice and snow accumulation, can pose winter maintenance challenges. Maintaining these surfaces is essential to avert safety risks. However, there are alternative strategies to address these issues effectively, such as employing de-icing products, specialized snow removal equipment, and the installation of an ice melt system. Consistent maintenance is the linchpin in ensuring concrete surfaces remain safe and free from winter-related hazards, supporting a safe and well-maintained environment.