Ultimate Ice Protection for a Historic Roof in Concord, MA

This project addressed a significant challenge for an older home in Concord, MA: preventing costly damage from snow and ice buildup. Annually, ice dams and heavy snow put historic roofs at risk, leading to leaks, rotting, and structural complications. WarmlyYours supplied a complete Ice Shield Roof and Gutter Deicing System featuring self-regulating heating cable and advanced controls, providing a permanent and reliable solution to keep the roof and gutters clear all winter long.

Project Details

Location: Concord, Massachusetts
Heated Space Type: Slate Shingle Roof & Gutters
Total Linear Feet of Cable: 2000 ft.
Watts, Volts, Amps:
- Wattage: Not specified (Self-regulating cable power output varies)
- Volts: 240 V
- Amps: 42 A (Maximum Draw)
Products Used: Ice Shield Self-Regulating Heating Cable, Advanced Snow Melt Control, Copper Roof Clips, Relay Panel.

Permanent Winter Protection in Concord, MA

In the harsh Massachusetts winters, ice and snow repeatedly damaged the roof of this old Concord home, leading to expensive repairs and potential interior issues. The homeowner needed a permanent, robust solution that wouldn't compromise the structure, especially with the unique challenges presented by the existing slate shingles.

WarmlyYours provided a comprehensive system utilizing the Ice Shield Self-Regulating Heating Cable. This cable is ideal because it automatically adjusts its heat output based on the surrounding temperature, making it highly efficient. The installation, demonstrated by expert Rob Robillard, involved running the cables in a saw-tooth pattern over the roof eaves and into the gutters to ensure proper drainage. The cables were secured using both copper and aluminum fasteners, utilizing adhesive pads or nails under the shingles for optimum security.

The advanced system is powered by the SCA-DUAL Snow and Ice Melt Control and utilizes an Aerial-Mounted Sensor that detects falling/blowing snow below 38 F. This automated approach ensures the system only operates when necessary, providing maximum ice dam prevention with optimized energy use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to run a roof and gutter deicing system in Massachusetts?

The cost to run an electric roof deicing system like this one in Concord, MA, depends entirely on run time. Based on the system 10.08 kW maximum draw and $0.28kWh electricity rates, the maximum cost is about $2.82 per hour. However, the system is highly efficient and only runs when the sensors detect necessary conditions (snow/ice below 38 F), drastically minimizing total seasonal operating costs.

Does roof and gutter deicing prevent ice dam damage?

Yes, roof and gutter deicing is the most effective permanent solution to prevent ice dam damage. By actively heating the roof eaves and gutters, the system ensures that meltwater has a clear, warm path to drain off the roof, preventing ice from building up and backing under the shingles, which causes leaks and structural damage.

What type of roof works best with a WarmlyYours deicing system?

The Ice Shield system is versatile and works well with a wide range of roofing materials, including the slate shingles used on this project. Installation requires specific fasteners (like the copper clips used here) adapted to the roof type to secure the heating cables without compromising the roof's integrity.

Is electric roof deicing energy efficient?

Yes, electric roof deicing is designed to be energy efficient. WarmlyYours uses self-regulating heating cable that adjusts its heat output automatically. Combined with an advanced aerial-mounted sensor and control unit, the system only activates when winter weather conditions pose a threat, ensuring minimal energy consumption while providing maximum protection.