How To Install Heat Tape On A Roof

Roof and gutter de icing cables prevent ice from sticking around during sub zero temperatures.

How to install heat tape on a roof.

Unique heat tape cable systems for the roof valley and the roof flashing on metal roofs. Self regulating roof heat tape systems only draw the power they need to get the job done. In this video master electrician for ask this old house scott caron helps a homeowner install heat cables on his roof to stop ice dams. Secure shingle clips to roof shingles using a flathead screwdriver making sure to align them in a zigzag pattern.

The type of heat tape used on roofs and gutters to prevent ice buildup is properly called heat cable. Operating costs are far greater than the higher quality self regulating roof heat tape systems we install every day because big box ice dam heat tape systems operate at 100 capacity all the time regardless of the outdoor temperatures. The term heat tape refers to another product an insulated electrical wire applied to water pipes to keep them from freezing and bursting. Heat cables can protect your gutters from filling with ice breaking off and harming your roof.

The s 5 base is designed. Heat cables are a much cheaper solution than fixing the source of the problem by sealing air leaks in the attic installing adequate insulation and creating proper ventilation. To install roof heating cables you must first apply shingle clips to the structure. Installing heat tape on a standing seam roof with the s 5 sr heat tape clip the s 5 heat tape roof clip is a new patented roof clip design specifically for standing seam applications with a focus on ease of install and effectiveness.

In addition to cleaning out your gutters and installing gutter accessories to keep drainage clear roof cables also called heat cables offer added protection from a buildup of rooftop ice dams. Heat cable ul listed to prevent ice dams. Thus your total cost when hiring a contractor will be 500 600. The most effective approach to this step is to apply as many clips as you can.

Starting at the bottom left or right edge corner of the surface near the gutters apply clips to the third or fourth row of shingles approximately eight to twelve inches apart. Disadvantages of installing heat cables. The average cost to install 100 feet of heat cable on the roof only is about 300 400 labor only excludes materials. It is used in conjunction with the s 5 base which needs to be purchased separately.

Heat tape metal roofs. They take electricity to operate.