All posts by Jordan Ricks

Articles

Baltimore Roofs get Tested During Record Snowstorm

January’s record-breaking snowstorms proved to be a serious test for residential and commercial roofs in the Baltimore area during the winter of 2015-2016. Some homeowners struggled to manually remove snow from their roofs during the infamous blizzard of January 22-23. Snowfall from the multi-day storm ranged from a whopping 22 to 25 inches across Baltimore county.

While most homes and commercial structures were more than capable of handling the heavy stress loads of the recent storms, the subsequent ice dams and potential for snow and ice to break free from roofs and fall on those below proved to be the most significant threats.

Inner Harbor waterfront view of Baltimore
The view of Baltimore from the Inner Harbor waterfront.

Baltimore businesses and building owners are tasked with keeping their roofs in safe condition to prevent snow and ice from falling and injuring pedestrians on the sidewalks below. And though homeowners are less worried about law suits as a result of ice falling from their roofs, they are faced with the potentially costly threat of water damage as a result of ice dams.

As heat rises from the home, it can escape into the attic and warm the roof, causing water to trickle down near the roof’s edge. But since the roof eaves are colder, the water refreezes. As this process is repeated, water can build up behind the ice where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Warmzone roof deicing systems and self-regulating heat trace cable for gutter heating systems offer ideal roof heating solutions for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. The roof heating systems are easy to customize and install. Once installed the roof deicing and gutter trace systems operate only when conditions warrant, keeping heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and preventing ice dams from forming along roof edges.

In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof deicing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout the Baltimore area. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

Many home and business owners in Baltimore are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof deicing system. To learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options, or to speak with a radiant heat expert, with no obligation or sales pressure, call 888.488.9276. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available. Visit warmzone.com and learn more about radiant heating systems and why some systems (and services) are better than others when it comes to heating specific projects.

Articles

Watch Out for Falling Ice in New York

Roof Deicing Systems Solve the “Falling Ice” Problem

Residents in New York City enjoy a number of perks and conveniences of life in the big city, but the splendor of living among the towering buildings and concrete canyons also comes with its share of challenges. New Yorkers are survivors, and every day during their brisk walks along the streets they’re constantly on guard as they maneuver through a sea of other hurried pedestrians, bicycles, taxis, delivery trucks and so on. The fast pace is all part of life in the Big Apple.

As if these daily obstacles and dangers weren’t enough, there are other hidden dangers that descend upon the city during the snow-filled winter months. As New Yorkers navigate the icy sidewalks and slush-filled streets, a more significant safety threat looms high above, well out of sight and out of mind of most pedestrians.

Removing the snow and icicles from a commercial roof.
Professional roof snow and ice removal team cutting through ice to remove the heavy and dangerous load from the roof.

After heavy snow storms, when temperatures climb back up above freezing, roofs begin to warm and slabs of snow and ice can break away and tumble onto unsuspecting pedestrians below. While most building owners take precautions to avoid this from happening, every year in the Big Apple there are reports of pedestrians being struck by snow or ice that has fallen from roofs or other structures. Streets had to be closed around New York’s new 1 World Trade Center recently when sheets of ice broke free from the 1,776-foot structure and slammed into the ground at 100-mph.

According to New York state laws, pedestrians who are injured from falling ice may seek compensation from building owners or those responsible for falling objects. The ruling of Davis v. Niagara Falls Tower Co. 171 N.Y. 336 (1901), states:

[A building owner]  . . .  must, at his peril, keep the ice or the snow that collects upon his roof within his own limits, and is responsible for all damages if the shape of his roof is such as to throw them upon his neighbor’s land, in the same manner as he would be if he threw them there himself.’

So, the responsibilities of building owners are clear. State law imposes a specific duty upon New York City building owners to ensure that pedestrians are not injured from snow or ice accumulations that fall from their buildings; whereas they must take reasonable steps to prevent ice from falling to the street. These steps typically range from snow guards to automated roof deicing systems.

In addition to commercial buildings installing snow guards or roof heating systems, it’s also beneficial for New York homeowners to protect their roofs and gutters with a radiant roof heating system. While they don’t face the same level of potential liability as building owners in crowded cities, installing a gutter trace system and/or a roof heating system in valleys and along roof edges can ultimately save money in the long run. These affordable roof deicing systems can be customized to meet homeowners’ specific snow melting needs as well as their budget. Heat trace cable can be installed in “trouble spots” on the roof or just in gutters and along the roof’s edge to eliminate ice dams – the principle culprit responsible for costly roof and water damage.

Warmzone roof deicing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and icicles from forming on roofs. In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof deicing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners in New York. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

To learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options, call 888.488.9276. Many home and business owners in New York are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof deicing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more – with no obligation or sales pressure. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available, so visit warmzone.com and learn more about radiant heating systems and why some systems (and services) are better than others when it comes to heating specific projects.

Articles

Winter in Philadelphia

Given Philadelphia’s typical winter weather, the city boasts an “army” of snow removal personnel and equipment. Commuters depend on this army to keep roads clear so they can travel to and from work, but homeowners also have the responsibility to do their share of snow removal.

The City Ordinances regarding snow removal in Philadelphia read:
(1) The owner, agent and tenants of any building or premises shall clear a path of not less than 36 inches in width on all sidewalks abutting the building or premises within 6 hours after the snow has ceased to fall. The path shall be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice. Where the width of any pavement measured from the property line to the curb is less than 3 feet, the path cleared may be only 12-inches in width. When the building in question is a multifamily dwelling the owner or his agent shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this Section. 160 Amended, Bill No. 100752 (approved January 5, 2011).

(2) Snow or ice removed from sidewalks, driveways, or other areas shall not be placed or piled in the street.

(3) Any person who violates this Section shall be subject to the provisions and penalties set forth in § 10-718 and § 10-719.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Philadelphia residents have been busy these past few winters. The recent record-setting winters have made it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

Snowstorm in downtown Philadelphia
A snowstorm descends on downtown Philadelphia.

During the blizzard of 2016, Philadelphia residents experienced the fourth largest snowstorm in the city’s history, receiving 22.4 inches of snow during a massive two-and-a-half-day storm. In fact, several parts of the country experienced record setting storms and snowfall for the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

But Philadelphia residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having some extra supplies and keeping the cupboards and refrigerator well stocked, some Pennsylvania residents are dumping the snow blower and shovels in favor of radiant heat.

Fully Automated Snow Melting Systems
Warmzone snow melting systems are energy efficient and maintenance free. Not only do these systems eliminate the need for manual snow removal, but they have proven valuable to businesses by keeping entrances and parking areas clear of snow and ice for customers. Providing a safe environment not only enhances business, but reduces the chances of costly litigation as a result of personal injury.

In addition to the silent, maintenance-free operation of radiant heat, electric snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The system includes an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When the temperature is below a set point – typically 39° Fahrenheit – it sends power to the embedded heat cable, warming the area and preventing snow accumulation.

As an industry leader, Warmzone snow melting systems feature trusted ClearZone heat cable that is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats that can be rolled out for easy installation. The electric radiant heating mats are laid out and secured, and then the medium (concrete, pavers, or asphalt) is applied directly over the cable.

The proven ClearZone electric snowmelt system is commonly installed in both commercial and residential applications. From large heated driveways and parking areas to custom sized walkways, ramps and loading docks, ClearZone systems are versatile and can be easily customized.

Warmzone snow melting systems include the heating cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These fully automated systems require no maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. In fact, much of the installation can be done by any ambitious homeowner, but wiring the system must be completed by a licensed electrician in order to keep the warranty valid.

In addition to providing the highest quality radiant heating products, Warmzone also offers unmatched customer services. Each system is professionally designed, so you’ll know the exact layout and proper materials, load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and system performance expectations before one foot of heat cable is installed.

Warmzone also includes free installation support services. A dedicated staff of experts is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions while installing the system, he/she can speak with one of our installation experts to resolve any issues. Free installation training is also available. When it comes to customer service, you’ll find that Warmzone is second to none.

Contact Warmzone today and learn more about the radiant heating options that are available. In addition to offering heated driveways and snow melting systems, Warmzone also offers premier roof deicing and floor heating systems. Call 888.488.9276 to learn more.

Articles

Keeping Roofs Clear of Ice in Newark, New Jersey

With record setting snowstorms blanketing Newark, New Jersey during the winter of 2015-2016, rooftops of commercial facilities as well as residential neighborhoods across the city were sorely tested. And as temperatures warmed after the storms, falling snow and ice posed significant dangers to pedestrians throughout the city.

With building owners in Newark responsible for the safety of their roofs and the safety of pedestrians below, roof snow guards, radiant roof heating systems, and snow removal services are all employed across the city during the winter. The most effective system – by far – has proven to be radiant heat, which is why more and more commercial building owners are turning to the automated roof heating systems. Homeowners in the Newark area are also installing radiant roof deicing systems. While homeowners are less worried about law suits as a result of ice and snow falling from their roofs, they are faced with the potentially costly threat of ice dams.

As heat rises from the home, it can escape into the attic and warm the roof, causing water to trickle down near the roof’s edge. But since the roof eaves are colder, the water refreezes. As this process is repeated, water can build up behind the ice where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Heavy snow accumulation on roof

Warmzone roof deicing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. The roof heating systems are easy to customize and install. Once installed the roof deicing and gutter trace systems operate only when conditions warrant, keeping heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and preventing ice dams from forming along roof edges.

In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof deicing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout the Newark area. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

To learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options, call 888.488.9276. Many home and business owners in Newark are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof deicing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more – with no obligation or sales pressure. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available, so visit warmzone.com and learn more about the radiant heating options available to you.