We know you don’t want to think about winter. Snow…cold…ice. But It makes sense to prepare for winter issues, such as when ice dams form on your roof, is now, not when the ice is already there. That’s too late.
Preparation means installing a roof deicing system. A roof deicing system is a system of cables that heats up and prevents melting snow on your roof from refreezing and forming ice dams. Here is why it is important to have one.
Benefits of a Roof Deicing System
- Prevents injuries. When the ice melts and water refreezes on the ground, people can slip on the ice and injure themselves. Plus, the icicles themselves can fall from the roof and hurt people. In addition to the injuries, there is also a liability issue which you don’t need.
- Prevents damage to the roof. The constant freezing and refreezing on your roof can damage the shingles. This can cause extensive and expensive repairs, or even necessitate replacing the roof.
- Prevents interior damage. When the Ice dams damage the shingles on your roof, the water can enter your home, causing damage to both your home and possessions.
- The safest, most effective way to handle ice dams. Using a roof rake may take some of the snow off the roof, but not all of it. Ice dams can still form. Plus, you’ll need to be ready whenever there is snow on the roof. And don’t even think about going up on the roof and doing it yourself.
Buying a Roof Deicing System
Here are a few things to know about investing in a roof deicing system.
- Make sure it is fully automated. Fully automated is preferable because you can just set the system once and it takes care of itself. You start by setting a temperature at which the system will turn on. When the system detects there is moisture on the roof and when the preset temperature is hit, the system turns on. The cables warm the roof and gutters, melting the snow before it turns to ice. When the job is done, the system turns off.
- Make sure you have the right size. You not only want enough cable to cover the roof, but the gutters and eaves as well.
- They are hidden from view. You can mount the control box outside or in your garage.
- They are low cost and energy efficient. It only costs around 35 cents an hour to melt the snow on a 300-square-foot roof.
- They are available in many colors. You can find one that matches or comes close to matching the color of your roof.
- Preferably, you will select one that has Wi-Fi capability so you can monitor whether it is on and even change the settings.
- Finally, and importantly, even though they are promoted as DIY, you are playing with electricity, so it makes sense to have a professional electrician handle the installation. In fact, it makes sense to also have an electrician help you select the right system for you.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Roof Deicing Systems
The licensed electricians at Ravinia Plumbing can help you with a roof deicing system. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
