Freeze-Free Living: High-Performance Roof & Gutter Deicing in Lake Bluff, IL

This showcase details the installation of a high-performance Ice Shield Self-Regulating Roof and Gutter Deicing System for a homeowner in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Faced with the annual challenge of ice dams and damaging gutter freeze-up, the homeowner sought a reliable, energy-efficient solution to protect their asphalt shingle roof and foundation. The WarmlyYours system, totaling 350 linear feet, was installed to automatically melt snow and ice, ensuring proper drainage and providing year-round protection and peace of mind.

Project Details

Location: Lake Bluff, IL
Heated Space Type: Roof & Gutters (Asphalt Shingle)
Cable Length: 350 Linear Feet
Watts, Volts, Amps: 1,750 W, 120V, 14 A
Operating Cost Per Hour: $0.21 (Based on $0.12/kWh average residential rate for Illinois)
- Per Day (8 hours run-time): $1.68
- Per Month (Average Winter): $50.40
Products Used: Ice Shield Self-Regulating Heating Cable, AIR-STAT Waterproof Outdoor Thermostat, Small Relay Panel (RLY-4PL-CC)

Roof & Gutter Deicing System

Ice dams are a significant and costly problem for homeowners in cold-weather regions like Lake Bluff, IL, leading to water damage in walls, attics, and foundations.¹ The challenge for this homeowner was to find a robust and discreet solution that could actively prevent ice buildup without requiring manual intervention. They chose the WarmlyYours Ice Shield Self-Regulating Roof and Gutter Deicing System for its superior reliability and energy efficiency.

The installation involved laying 350 linear feet of Ice Shield Self-Regulating Heating Cable along the eaves and inside the gutters. This specific cable technology is highly advantageous because it senses the ambient temperature and adjusts its heat output accordingly, preventing energy waste when the temperature rises.² The system was paired with the AIR-STAT Waterproof Outdoor Thermostat, which automatically activates the system only when moisture (snow/ice) is present and the temperature is near freezing, maximizing efficiency. The cable was secured using aluminum roof clips and double-sided tape pads to maintain the roof’s integrity. This comprehensive solution now guarantees a clear path for meltwater, protecting the home from damaging ice and snow buildup throughout the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to run a roof and gutter deicing system in Lake Bluff, IL?

Based on the 1,750 W system used for this Lake Bluff project and local electricity rates of about $0.12/kWh, the operating cost is approximately $0.21 per hour. For homeowners in Illinois, this amounts to a minimal daily cost of about $1.68 during a storm, offering powerful ice protection for a very low operational price.

2. What is a "Self-Regulating" heating cable and why is it used for roof deicing?

Self-regulating heating cable, like the Ice Shield used here, automatically adjusts its power output in response to temperature changes. It generates more heat in colder spots (where ice forms) and less heat in warmer areas. This makes it highly energy efficient and ensures consistent, effective melt paths along the gutters and eaves, which is critical for preventing ice dams.

3. Can this electric radiant heating system be used on any type of roofing material?

Yes, the Ice Shield cable is designed to be highly versatile. While this specific project was on an asphalt shingle roof, the system can be safely and effectively installed on most common roofing materials, including wood shakes, metal, and rubber roofs. It is a reliable form of electric radiant heating for exterior surfaces.

4. Is electric roof and gutter deicing a reliable way to prevent ice dams?

Absolutely. When installed correctly with an automatic controller like the AIR-STAT, electric roof and gutter deicing is the most effective and reliable way to prevent ice dams. It creates a controlled path for snowmelt to drain safely off the roof, preventing the pooling and refreezing that causes costly damage, making it an excellent energy efficient heating solution for cold climates.