Most roofs are designed to handle the extreme conditions thrown at them by Mother Nature. Although they are usually out of sight and out of mind, roofs require some special attention. Every roof has an effective lifespan so it’s important to inspect your roof every spring and fall. Doing this can save you the hassle of expensive water damage repair in the future. And checking the integrity of your roof can alert you to trouble spots whereby you can take action to prevent possible problems in the future.
The biggest roof-related problems that Denver residents deal with during the winter months are caused by ice dams forming along the roof eaves. Ice dams occur when snow, higher up on the roof, melts, and the runoff reaches the colder roof eaves and refreezes, causing snow and ice to build up. Over time, more runoff reaches the eaves and refreezes causing the buildup to increase, resulting in large dams of ice near the roof’s edge. When runoff reaches the ice it pools up behind it. The pooled water can gradually seep under the shingles where it refreezes at night. The expanding ice can threaten the roof’s integrity and eventually lead to costly water damage inside the home. (Click on the illustration to enlarge.)
When it comes to roof de-icing solutions there are many options to choose from, and Warmzone® can further customize any system that you select. There are several basic roof heating options, and each can be customized to accommodate your de-icing needs and budget.
Perhaps the most effective and discreet heating element for keeping roof edges and valleys free of snow and ice is Warmzone’s low-voltage RoofHeat STEP® de-icing system. This roof heating solution features a thin, low-voltage heating element that is installed directly under the roof shingle. (The system is also safe to install under metal roofs.) The heating element can even be nailed or stapled through and cut onsite.
For over a decade this roof heating system has proven to be one of the most effective solutions for preventing ice dams from forming. The semi-conductive polyethylene heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage. The heating element is self-regulating, so when the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases, preventing the element from overheating and ensuring energy-efficient operation. Its construction assures water proofing and is protected from alkaline or salt damage.
Because the RoofHeat STEP de-icing system is low voltage, it utilizes a transformer. The transformer steps down high voltage to low voltage (60 V or less) and monitors the power and output of the heating element under the roof to ensure safe, optimal performance, heating the roof evenly and helping to protect it from ice damage.
The roof heating system also includes the STEP Touch thermostat (activation device). This advanced thermostat is beautifully designed for simple two-control functionality and features a 3-digit, auto-dim LED display. The Touch sensor controls are maintenance free and the unit is perfectly suited to work seamlessly with all Warmzone radiant heat systems. The versatile unit works is capable of interfacing with smart home systems. All settings are stored in permanent memory for instant recovery in the event of a power failure, and no batteries are needed.
In the Denver area heavy snow and ice in roof gutters can also cause problems. Running self-regulating heat cable through the gutters and downspouts facilitates runoff and prevents heavy ice from accumulating in the gutters and reduces the formation of large icicles. Self-regulating heat cable can also be "zigzagged" along the roof eaves to help prevent ice dams from forming.
The RoofHeat self-regulating heat trace cable is energy efficient and very effective
for keeping roof gutters free of snow and ice. The cable is UL recognized under the Appliance Wire Classification
(file E 76498) and meets the requirements of the NEC (National Electric Code)
Section 426. The cable's durable outer construction is designed to withstand Colorado's harsh winter conditions.
The self-regulating heat trace cable also features an irradiated conductive core that increases the heat output
as the outside temperature falls and decreases the heat output as the temperature rises. This construction is what
makes the cable resilient, safe, and energy efficient.
Warmzone radiant heat experts have been around a long time, and we understand what it takes to design and install an effective roof heating system. Several roof heating options are available and each option can be easily customized to provide the ideal de-icing solution for virtually any type of roof and configuration. We’ll work closely with you to evaluate your project and find the best solution for your budget and roof de-icing needs. Call a radiant heating expert today at 888-488-9276 to learn more about your options. We’re happy to learn more about your project and offer recommendations, or answer any questions you may have.
888-488-9276
info@warmzone.com
