Helpful Roof Information
Most weather related issues for a home begin – or end – with the roof. So, it’s no exaggeration to state that the single most important physical characteristic of a house may be its roof. Trouble areas or a poor quality roof can result in expensive water damage within the house so it’s vital to catch these problems before any damage can be done. As homeowners it’s important for us to inspect and maintain the quality of the roof and consistently ensure the integrity of the roof.
Some important factors to keep in mind are:
- Multiple-layer roofs (shingles laid over shingles) will have a shorter lifespan.
- An unventilated or poorly ventilated attic reduces roof lifespan.
- Tree branches rubbing on a roof or the accumulation of leaf debris on a roof can shorten the life of roof shingles.
- Severe weather such as hot summers and harsh winters can affect your roof. Weather fronts that introduce dramatic temperature swings within a 24-hour period can also shorten lifespan because of the rapid expansion and contraction of the roof materials.
What’s the Best Way to Heat My Roof?
Warmzone offers several options when it comes to heating your roof. And each system can be customized to further meet your specific needs.
One of the most popular systems for heating roof edges is the RoofHeat STEP system. This system features thin, low-voltage heating element that is installed directly under the roof shingle. (The system is also safe to install under metal roofs.)
The semi-conductive polyethylene heating element comes in 12-inch wide rolls and can even be nailed or stapled through and cut on site. Other widths are available for heating gutters and downspouts. The heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage.
Heating Gutters and Downspouts
The ideal solution for heating gutters and downspouts is self-regulating heat cable. The heat cable is effective for heating roof edges, gutters and drainpipes to help prevent costly ice and water damage, frost erosion and dangerous falling ice.
The self-regulating roof and gutter heating cable is extremely effective and energy efficient. The UL listed cable meets the requirements of the NEC (National Electric Code) Section 426. The durable cable 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 proven construction makes it tough, safe, and extremely energy efficient.
Most residential automated self-regulating heat trace systems consist of the heating element and a thermostat or snow sensor (activation device). (Larger systems may require another contactor, depending upon the power requirements. Heat trace systems rely on the thermostat to activate and keep the gutters and downspouts clear of ice.
Warmzone roof heating systems are fully automated and maintenance free. Warmzone roof deicing systems have been installed in Denver and most other cold regions around the country and are still the most effective and discreet for roof deicing and gutter trace applications.
Roof heating systems can be customized to accommodate just about any roof type and configuration. Warmzone self-reg roof and gutter heating cable may also be combined with other recommended roof heating systems, such as the RoofHeat STEP deicing system to create an optimal solution for you. We’ll work with you to create a customized system to best accommodate your specific snow melting needs as well as your budget. For more information, call 888.488.9276 today.