Utah is no stranger to freezing temperatures and snow. In some parts of the state, it’s possible to see snowfall seven months out of the year. In fact, the Salt Lake City area alone sees a yearly average of 54 inches of snow. That’s almost double the national average! With all of this snow falling and melting and then refreezing and falling again, you need to do more than shovel your sidewalk and driveway. You also need to make sure you have measures in place to protect your roof and gutter system. That’s why we’re here to explain to you how Utah ice melt systems work, and why you should consider getting one.
Protect Your Home from Ice Dams
The primary purpose of a Utah ice melt system is to prevent ice dams from forming. Ice dams are created when the warm air inside a home melts a layer of snow or ice resting on the roof. When the ice melts, it turns to water and begins to run down the roof and onto the rain gutter system. Because the water has escaped the warmth of the roof, it immediately refreezes on the gutter creating a large blockage of ice in the process. This blockage is referred to as an ice dam.
Because the water can’t get to the gutter through the ice dam, it has no choice but to seep back into the roof itself. When this happens, costly water damage can occur in the form of leaks and eventually rotting wood. Not only that, but ice dams have the potential to grow large enough to rip the gutter right off your roof with their immense weight.
2 Types of Utah Ice Melt Systems
Some roofs are more susceptible to the formation of ice dams than others. The same goes for different climates and weather conditions. This is why we offer two different types of ice melt systems. In both cases, the ice melt systems provide a warm path for melted ice to run safely down your roof and into your rain gutter system. From there it is channeled away from your home without risk of damage.
Heat Trace Cables
For most Northern Utah climates heat trace cables do the job of preventing ice dams nicely. Heat trace cables are safe and easy to customize for any roof. They also come in different voltages. By not overdoing it on the voltage or the cable placement, we can save you money on your electricity bill when running the ice melt system along your roof, rain gutter, and downspout.
Heated Roof Panels
Heated roof panels are a better solution for high-altitude areas where there’s more snowfall. They are also good for a more refined look than what the heat trace cables can provide alone. You may decide to go with heat trace cables or heated roof panels. Either way, you’ll want an experienced installer to make sure the job gets done right.
Call a Pro
To know which ice melt system works best for you, we can take a look at your property and give you a free assessment. Right now is a wonderful time to start preparing for the winter. We can also take a look at your siding and rain gutters. Our experienced staff is always here to answer any questions you might have. Please give us a call at (801) 676-1048 or fill out our secure online contact form and get your free estimate today!