Roof heating cables, also known as heat tape or heat cable, are becoming an increasingly popular way to prevent ice dams and icicles from forming on roofs during winter. But are they really worth the cost and effort of installation? Here we’ll examine the pros and cons of roof heating cables to help you decide if they are right for your roof.
Page Contents
What are roof heating cables?
Roof heating cables are electrical cables that are installed directly on your roof’s eaves and gutters. When turned on, they heat up just enough to melt snow and ice so it can’t accumulate. Most heating cables range from 30-100 watts per foot of cable length. They are powered by outdoor-rated plugs that connect to an interior or exterior GFCI outlet.
Heating cables feature weatherproof exteriors, with internal heating elements encased in materials like polyethylene, PVC, or self-limiting heaters. Self-regulating cables adjust their temperature output based on conditions to avoid overheating. Most cables turn on automatically when temperatures drop below 38°F.
Installing heating cables involves running the cable along roof edges, overhangs, valleys, and downspouts where ice dams tend to form. They are secured with clips, tape, or adhesive. The cables should not overlap or cross over themselves. A qualified electrician can help determine how much cable you need based on your roof size and layout.
The pros of roof heating cables
Here are some of the potential benefits of installing roof heating cables:
- Prevent ice dams – By keeping roof edges and valleys warm, heating cables can stop ice dams from building up. This prevents interior leaks and roof damage.
- Avoid ice and icicles – Heating cables melt existing ice buildup and prevent future icicles from forming by warming problem areas.
- Protect gutters – Keeping gutters and downspouts free of ice buildup helps prevent water damage from ice-clogged systems.
- Reduce safety hazards – Melting ice dams and icicles eliminates falling ice risks and makes roofs safer to clear.
- DIY installation – Heating cables are relatively easy for DIYers to install without remodeling or replacing the roof.
- Lower long-term costs – Preventing roof and interior damage can save on expensive repairs needed from ice dam-related leaks.
- Energy efficient – Low-wattage cables only use energy when turned on during freezing temps. Newer self-regulating cables are even more efficient.
The cons of roof heating cables
There are also some potential drawbacks to consider with roof heating cables:
- High upfront cost – Installation costs can range from $10-$25 per foot, so fully outfitting a roof gets expensive. The systems require a GFCI outlet, thermostat, wiring, and other materials that add to the total expense.
- Professional installation recommended – While DIY installation is possible, hiring an electrician ensures proper setup and compliance with building codes.
- Risk of fire or burns – Faulty cables can overheat or spark, creating a fire risk. Exposed cables also pose a burn hazard.
- May not stop all ice dams – In very cold climates, cables alone may not provide enough heat to fully prevent ice dams from forming.
- Cables can be damaged – Rodents or debris can chew through cables. UV rays can degrade cables over time.
- Increased electricity costs – Running heating cables will increase monthly power bills, especially during periods of heavy use.
- Not a permanent solution – Cables may need to be replaced every 10-15 years as they degrade.
Key factors when deciding on roof heating cables
If you’re on the fence about installing roof heating cables, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Your climate – Cables provide the most benefit and value in colder regions with regular winter ice dams. Their impact is more limited in warmer climates.
- Your roof design – Heating cables work best on sloped roofs with overhangs and valleys. Flat and low-slope roofs often require other ice melt solutions.
- Your budget – The large upfront investment may not make sense for all homeowners. Compare installation quotes to your typical repair costs.
- DIY comfort level – If you aren’t experienced with electrical work, professional installation is recommended for safety and proper performance.
- Access to power – You’ll need accessible GFCI outlets to connect the cable’s power cords.
- Age of roof – Cables provide more value if you have an older roof prone to ice dams. They provide less benefit on newer, better insulated roofs.
Installation tips for roof heating cables
If you do opt to install roof heating cables, here are some tips for proper installation and setup:
- Have a qualified electrician or roofer handle the installation.
- Carefully measure your roof to determine the required cable length.
- Use clips, tape or adhesive to securely fasten the cables in place.
- Be sure to evenly space the cable runs and don’t let cable cross over itself.
- Connect to a GFCI outlet with enough amperage for the system wattage.
- Install a thermostat to automatically activate the cables at 38°F.
- Seal any roof penetrations made for wiring to prevent leaks.
- Test cables before finishing the roof to confirm proper operation.
- Keep cables clear of falling debris and snow rakes when maintaining your roof.
Following professional installation guidelines helps ensure your cables provide maximum ice prevention benefits and long-term reliability.
How much do roof heating cables cost?
The overall cost to install roof heating cables depends on several factors, including:
- Roof size and layout – More cable needed for larger, complex roofs
- Cable wattage – Higher wattage cables cost more per foot
- Professional vs DIY – Hiring an electrician adds labor costs
- Associated equipment – Thermostat, wiring, outlet add extra costs
- Roofing material – More difficult surfaces cost more in labor
On average, expect to pay the following roof heating cable installation costs:
| System component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Heating cable | $10-$25 per foot |
| Professional installation | $2-$5 per foot |
| GFCI outlet | $100-$200 |
| Thermostat | $50-$100 |
| Wiring | $1-$2 per foot |
| Total average cost | $15-$35 per foot |
So for example, to install 200 feet of cable on a 25 square roof, expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000 total. This provides general guidance, but get quotes specific to your roof for the most accurate pricing.
Alternatives to roof heating cables
If you decide roof heating cables are not the right solution, there are a few other options to combat ice dams:
- Improve insulation/ventilation – Adding insulation and proper air sealing reduces how much indoor heat escapes into the attic and melts roof snow.
- Roof de-icing cables – These automatically melt channels in ice dams but don’t prevent new ice like heating cables.
- Roof rakes – Use a long rake to manually remove snow before ice dams form.
- Temporary deicers – Apply calcium chloride or salt-based products at problem areas as needed.
- Removable gutter covers – Take off solid gutter covers in winter to allow meltwater drainage.
But be aware that most alternatives require more physical labor or frequent reapplication compared to leaving heating cables in place. Improving insulation/ventilation provides the most effective and permanent ice dam solution.
Conclusion
Roof heating cables can be an effective way to stop ice dams and icicles from damaging your roof. But they require a significant upfront investment and their benefits are maximized on certain roof types in cold climates prone to frequent winter ice buildup.
Carefully consider your climate, budget, roof design, and electric capabilities when deciding if heating cables are right for you. If you do install them, be sure to follow professional guidelines closely so they operate safely and effectively. And investigate improving attic insulation as a more permanent ice dam prevention solution.
With the right house and climate, roof heating cables can provide great protection against ice dams. But weigh all the pros, cons and costs closely to determine if they are a smart investment for your roof.