The Hub of Knowledge on Roofing, Siding, Windows, & Painting

De-icing Heat Cable Installation on Roofs: Pros and Cons

Have you ever seen these black cables on the lower edge of a roof and wondered what they were for? If you live in our territory (Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or Southern New Hampshire), you're no stranger to ice dams, roof icicles and other winter roof issues.  You've most likely lived in a house at some point that has issues with ice build-up or winter roof leaks from ice and snow.

The black cables are referred to as de-icing cables, roof cables, heat coils or ice lines.  The purpose they serve is to raise the temperature of the problem area above freezing temperatures in order to keep ice and snow from building up in the gutters, on lower roof edges and in roof valleys. 

Are De-icing Cables a Good Solution?

You may have seen these de-icing systems on roofs and wondered if they work. They answer is maybe.  Often times homeowners try to use these types of de-icing systems to compensate for another more serious roof problem such as deteriorating shingles, insufficient attic insulation or ventilation, or insufficient ice and water shield. It's far more common that homeowners with an older roof are trying to get 1 or 2 last years out of it before having to replace it.  With roofing, we always say air on the side of caution!  The people who have experienced serious roof leaks are the ones who take this advice seriously.  It will cost you thousands of dollars more to remedy the damage from a serious roof leak, then it will to have it replaced before the problem presents itself.

What Does United Recommend?

We've installed these de-icing systems in the past with mixed success.  It's our policy to solve peoples problems to the best of our ability not just band-aid the issue and let them deal with it (and pay for it) in the future.  Although we'll probably install more of these systems this winter in emergency situations, we always do so with the understanding that the roof has other issues that need to be resolved as soon as the weather permits. 

If you live in our territory and are experiencing a winter roof emergency, contact us to discuss temporary and long-term solutions.

Or find out how much does a new roof cost.