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Roof De-icing: Self-Regulating Cable Installation Tips

Warmzone® roof de-icing systems are energy-efficient, effective, and easy to customize for single-family residential or commercial roofs. Install in roof valleys, along eaves, at trouble spots, or across an entire roof. FREE installation training is available through Warmzone University. For project help, call 888-488-9276.


Heavy roof snow and ice formation

Self-regulating roof de-icing cable

Self-regulating roof heat cable is the optimum solution for heating gutters and drainpipes. It can also be run along the roof edge to help eliminate ice dams—the leading cause of roof damage and interior water intrusion. Install only in accordance with local/national codes and the manufacturer's instructions. Self-regulating cable to avoid possible mechanical damage from ladders, shovels, etc. This page complements—but does not replace—the official installation manual.

Affordable and widely recommended, self-regulating roof heat cable installs in gutters, downspouts, and eaves to help eliminate ice dams and dangerous icicles. All Warmzone heat trace cable withstands harsh weather, while the self-regulating conductive core increases output as temperatures fall and decreases as they rise—making the heat trace efficient and safe.

This construction also lets roof trace integrate with Warmzone's roof-heating panels—powder-coated aluminum profiles with pre-engineered channels that transfer heat efficiently along the roof edge. Panels come in multiple sizes and colors for both shingle and standing-seam roofs.

Pre-installation notes for roof heat cable

  1. Avoid in-line and tee splices when possible.
  2. In downspouts, cable may be double-traced (~20 ft of cable per 10 ft of downspout) and should extend below the frost line if tied into a drainage system.
  3. Do not place field-assembled end terminations where they could become immersed in water; avoid the lowest point of downspouts.
  4. Do not exceed the maximum circuit length specified by the manufacturer for the chosen over-current protection device.
  1. For roof drains, trace a five-pointed star pattern ~18 in. out from the center, enter the drain about 2 ft, then return to the roof.
  2. For roof edge leading into a heated gutter, install a loop of heating cable to a typical depth of ~2 ft; trace entire overflow drains.
  3. If the cable's outer jacket is compromised, seal it with heat-shrink as soon as possible.
  4. Clear sharp stones, nails or debris that could damage cable insulation and ensure performance.
Roof heating panels with self-regulating heat cable

Roof-heating panels with self-regulating cable

Warmzone's aluminum roof-heating panels use precision channels to hold the cable and spread heat efficiently along the eaves, helping prevent ice dams and icicles. Panels are available in several sizes and colors; suitable for shingle or standing-seam roofs. (See the Roof Heating Panels page for details.)

Roof De-icing Literature and Links

Need design help? For a custom layout using roof heat cable or a full panel solution, request a quote or purchase now, or call 888-488-9276. This heat trace information is provided as guidance; always follow the product documentation and applicable codes.