Although Utah winters are beautiful, they can provide difficulties with heavy snowfall and fast changing temperatures that might cause ice dams and other expensive concerns. Setting heat cables on your roof and gutters will help you avoid these problems rather successfully. This article will bring you through the process using a step-by-step method fit for homeowners.
Assessing Your Needs and Gathering Materials
Check your particular needs before starting the installation. Along with the length of your gutters and downspouts, find the length of your roof edge where ice dams usually develop. This will ascertain your needed heat cable count. Then compile the required supplies: UL-listed heat cables, rated for outdoor use and self-regulating is advised, mounting clips or fasteners especially made for heat cables, a heavy-duty extension cord with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), and safety gear including gloves and eye protection. Furthermore needed will be a ladder, measuring tape, and pliers.
Safety First: Preparing for Installation
Working at heights and with electricity calls for first priority on safety. Make sure your ladder is steady and in good operating order before you begin. Learn the warnings and directions of the heat cable manufacturer. Choose a dry day for installation; avoid damp or frozen situations. Make sure the GFCI extension cord is hooked into a correctly grounded outlet. To guard oneself against possible risks, always don gloves and safety glasses.
Installing Heat Cables on the Roof Edge
Start by placing clips to the roof edge to fasten the heat cables. Placed at least three feet up the roof, the cables should be zigzag pattern over the area where ice dams usually develop. Make sure the cables won't come free in strong wind or snow and are tightly attached. For cable and clip spacing, follow manufacturer guidelines. Steer clear of cable overlapping since this can cause too much heat and create a fire hazard.
Installing Heat Cables in Gutters and Downspouts
Work on the gutters and downspouts once the cables are fastened to the roof edge. The heat cable should run the gutter's whole length first, then down the downspout. For effective installation, particularly with utah heat cable systems, fasteners or mounting clips will help you hold the cable within the gutter. To guarantee the downspout's cable reaches the bottom and avoids ice obstruction, think about using a weighted drop cable inside the downspout. Make sure the cables are free of any sharp edges that could compromise the insulation.
Conclusion
Check the heat cables and GFCI extension cord after installation to ensure they work. The cables should feel warm after a few minutes of running. Check heat cables for damage or disconnections sometimes in winter. Get rid of leaves and branches near the cables. Unplug heat cords before maintenance. Following these instructions can ensure a safer winter and protect your home from ice jams.
