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Heated Metal Roof - Deicing & Snow Melt Systems​

Roof Deicing  /  Metal Roofs

Ice damming is a common problem on metal roofs. If you have a building with a metal roof, you may find that ice accumulates in the valleys and dormers, or near the gutters. In some cases, ice damming occurs when the angle of the roof is not steep enough. Rather than hoping ice damming doesn’t happen or working to address the issue every time it occurs, you can prevent it entirely by investing in a heated metal roof. 

Why You Need a Heated Metal Roof

Many property owners opt to install a metal roof on their storage sheds and other buildings because these sturdy roofs are designed to withstand the harsh elements of winter. Metal roofs are considered to be the premier roofing material in cold weather areas where there is significant snow build up or ice accumulation over the course of the winter. While these roofs can definitely add strength and stability to your structure, they are still at risk of ice damming, and they can still be prone to water damage as a result of significant snow accumulation.

As a result, it’s very important that you invest in a heated metal roof system. To create a heated metal roof, a series of heated cables are installed along the perimeter of the roof. The metal roof heat cable will work to melt snow and ice upon contact, preventing ice damming. Heated gutter cables for metal roofs will not only improve the integrity of your structure, but they will make it a safer place for everyone. 

Choosing Heated Cables for Metal Roofs

When it comes to choosing a metal roof heat cable, you will find that there are two options available:

  • Self-Regulating Deicing Elements
  • Constant Wattage Deicing Cable

It’s important to note that constant wattage deicing cables are not recommended for use on metal roofs, so the best choice for you is the self-regulating deicing element. This is an innovative heating cable has a specialized core that becomes conducive in response to dwindling temperatures. Not only is this the most effective metal roof heat cable, but it is also the most energy-efficient option. It increases its wattage when the temperatures are colder, but it uses less energy as the temperatures warm. Essentially, it only works hard when it needs to, which means that you only pay for the energy when it’s absolutely necessary.

The self-regulating metal roof heat cable is the safest and most effective option for your heated metal roof. It works quickly to reduce ice accumulation and build-up on the roof, preventing water damage and eliminating any safety issues associated with ice damming in your building.

Tips for Measuring Your Metal Roof

In order to determine how much metal roof heat cable you will need to purchase from Green Wave Distribution, you will need to measure your metal roof. These tips can help you calculate an accurate measurement:

  • Take the time to measure the entire roof at least twice, so that you know your measurements are as accurate as possible. Accurate measurements ensure that you purchase enough metal roof heat cable for your entire system, but also prevents you from purchasing more equipment than you need for your project.
  • Measure the area of the roof and the area of the gutter, as well as other aspects of your metal roof, such as the downspout, seam spacing, overhang width and valley length.

In addition to measuring your metal roof, you also will want to create a map of the roof and identify problem spots where ice and snow accumulation typically occurs. This useful information will ensure that you and your contractor design a heated metal roof system that is customized to meet your needs.

Determining the Cost of Your Heated Metal Roof

The cost of your heated metal roof will depend on a variety of factors, including:

  • The area of your roof. If you have a larger metal roof, then the cost of your deicing system will be higher than that of a smaller roof.
  • The type of metal roof heat cable that you choose. You may have several self-regulating deicing cables to choose from, and they may be offered at various price points.
  • The accessories that you choose for your heated metal roof. There are many optional accessories that you can consider for your heated metal roof. While accessories will increase the functionality of your heated metal roof, they also will drive up the cost.
  • The installation of your heated metal roof. It is possible to install your metal roof heat cable yourself, but many property owners rely on professional installers to complete their project.

Optional Accessories for Your Heated Metal Roof

There are several accessories that you may want to consider purchasing in order to increase the efficiency of your heated metal roof. These accessories include:

  • Manual Control — The manual control is the standard option that is available with most heated gutter cables.
  • Premium Control — Property owners who are interested in a convenient automatic control system may be interested in investing in the premium control.
  • Aerial Snow Sensor — An aerial snow sensor is an innovative tool that detects when snow is in the area or is beginning to fall. It can help you determine the best settings for your heated gutter cables for metal roofs.
  • Gutter Mounted Sensor — This sensor is mounted on the gutter and is also designed to detect snow when it is in the area.

Heated gutter cables for metal roofs will eliminate the risk of ice damming, allowing you to feel confident that your building is going to be protected both now and in the years to come. For more information about heated metal roofs and to learn more about our innovative radiant heat solutions, contact Green Wave Distribution today.

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