OK. We’ve been lucky. Minimal snow so far this winter. As a result, no snow on the roofs equals no snow that can melt and then refreeze to form damage-inducing ice dams on your roof. We may not be as lucky next winter, which is why it makes sense to protect your roof and home against the damage that can be caused by ice dams.
The way to do that is to invest now while it is fresh in your mind in a roof deicing system which employs a series of heated cables that prevent ice dams from forming and causing damage. Here are the benefits.
- Increased safety for you. Roof deicing systems are the safest way to get rid of ice dams. Do you really want to go onto that slippery roof and get rid of them that way?
- Increased safety for everybody.
- When the ice from the roof melts and then refreezes on the ground, it increases the risk that someone will slip and fall on the ice.
- Also, the ice forms icicles, which could fall and hit someone, causing injury.
- Reduced liability. Bad enough that someone could get hurt, but that could also lead to a lawsuit.
- Reduce damage.
- Constant melting and refreezing can damage the roof shingles, requiring either major repairs or in the worst case, replacement of the roof. So, the roof deicing system can extend the life of your roof.
- If there is roof damage, water can enter your home, damaging walls, floors and possessions.
- Most efficient way to remove ice dams. Roof rakes are great for removing snow. But they probably will not reach far enough to remove all the snow, and they are ineffective in reducing ice.
- Easy to install and operate. Roof deicing systems are easy to install (by a professional) and easy to operate.
- Low cost to operate. It only costs about 35 cents an hour to melt the snow on a 3,000-square-foot roof.
- Unobtrusive. The system’s control box does not take up a lot of room and can be placed in your garage or outside the house.
Buying a Roof Deicing System
Some factors to consider:
- Type of system. There are three types of roof deicing systems:
- Constant wattage cables maintain a constant heat output but are better suited for climates where the temperature is always cold.
- Ice tape is easy to install but does not provide coverage for the entire roof.
- Most preferable are temperature-controlled heating cables, which use sensors to adjust heat based on the weather, so they are only in use when they need to be.
- Automation. You want a fully automated system, where you set the system once and it goes on and off based upon the temperature setting you provided. The system turns on when it detects moisture, and the preset temperature is hit.
- Full coverage. Make sure the system also covers eaves and gutters.
- Wi-Fi capability. Even though you have preset the temperature, it is not a bad idea to have Wi-Fi capabilities to monitor activity and adjust settings.
- Colors. Cables come in a variety of colors.
- Installation. Working with electricity is dangerous. You should have a licensed electrician handle the installation. The electrician can also help you beforehand to select the right system.
Rely on Ravinia Plumbing for a Roof Deicing System
The licensed electricians at Ravinia Plumbing can help you select and then install a roof deicing system to protect your roof, home, and possessions from the damage that ice dams can inflict. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we have made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
