The Benefits of a Roof De-icing System

Roof Heating Systems can Provide a Host of Benefits for Commercial and Residential Properties

Roof de-icing systems offer a host of benefits to residential and commercial applications. From enhancing the lifespan of the roof to enhancing safety for pedestrian traffic, the benefits of an automated roof heating system can be significant. Some of the advantanges provided by a roof de-icing system are listed below.

ENHANCES SAFETY - Heavy snow and ice buildup can threaten the safety of pedestrians. Falling or melting icicles can hit passers by or cause slick conditions on sidewalks below. Installing an automated roof de-icing or gutter heat trace system greatly reduces liability issues by enhancing safety.

MAINTENANCE FREE - Electric roof de-icing systems feature no moving parts and are virtually maintenance free, so there are no costs associated with yearly upkeep.

PROTECTS THE ROOF AND STRUCTURE - Ice dams are the most common winter roof problems that can sometimes lead to costly water damage. Roof de-icing systems eliminate ice dams to protect roofs and minimize the chance of water damage. Roof de-icing systems can also help to extend the life of your roof by reducing the stress of icy winter weather.

ENERGY EFFICIENT - Electric roof heating systems are extremely efficient. The fully automated roof de-icing systems operate only when needed, and are so effective that 99% of the energy is transferred directly to heat, providing a quick response time to efficiently melt snow and ice.

FULLY AUTOMATED - Roof snow melting systems feature a high-tech snow sensor that detects precipitation and temperature to activate the system so that it operates only when needed. When precipitation is detected and the temperature is below the adjustable setpoint (usually set at 39° Fahrenheit), the sensor signals the system's master controller. The control unit then sends power to the heating element to warm the roof and gutters just as the snowstorm hits. After the storm, the system shuts off automatically, resulting in maximum efficiency and performance.

EASY TO CUSTOMIZE AND INSTALL - Radiant roof heating systems are surprisingly easy to install and can be customized to meet the specific de-icing and layout needs of just about any application. RoofHeat STEP, a top roof de-icing system, features a flexible, low-voltage heating element that can be nailed or stapled through and cut to size onsite, simplifying the installation process. Because of the ease of installation of this system, installation costs can be much less than that of other systems.

LOW OPERATION COSTS - Utility costs vary depending on where you live, but generally, you can melt snow on 300-square-foot area for around $0.35 per continuous hour of operation.

MINIMAL OPERATION TIME - The top electric roof heating systems feature fast response times and highly effective operation. When designed and installed correctly, the operation time of a top electric radiant heating system can be as much as 30 percent less than some hydronic snow melting systems. (Electric systems are recommended for roof de-icing applications.)

NO BULKY HOUSING - Another advantage of electric radiant roof de-icing systems is that they do not take up space or require a mechanical room. The system is controlled by a small activation device mounted outside, or control box that is usually mounted on the wall in the garage, so there's no need to take up additional square footage of your home or garage to house a boiler, manifold, and pumps associated with hydronic systems.

Call 888.488.9276 to consult with an unbiased roof de-icing professional and learn more about the options that would be best for you. You can also send your roof de-icing project information to a top provider to receive a free quote.

Call 888.488.9276 for more information, or to learn what roof de-icing options are best for you.