For as long as metal roof systems have been installed, problematic ice accumulations (often called ‘ice dams’) have proven to be a challenge. Ice dams normally form along the eaves of a heated structure and are the result of irregular heat patterns on the roof. Click here to learn all about ice dams from The Ice Dam Company, a national leader in the field of ice dam removal and prevention.

There are a few options in terms of managing ice dams on metal roofs. Architectural solutions are a great option if you have the budget. Enhanced insulation and ventilation as well as sealing up air leaks that add heat to the roof system is smart work but often cost upwards of $10,000, even for modest projects. Another solution to ice dams on metal roofs is heat tape, otherwise known as heat cable or deicing cable. If done correctly, ice dams on metal roofs can be managed affordably but options are limited in terms of the products and approaches available.

Heat cable manufacturers have mostly disregarded the technical challenges installers face while trying to use heat cable to manage ice dams on metal roof systems, which is why Radiant Solutions Company has focused so intensely on the topic. We have created the most innovative line of installation accessories in the world that are dedicated to solving the problem of ice dams on metal roof systems. Following is a detailed look into all of the common metal roof styles used in North America along with specific recommendations about how to install self-regulating heat cable systems on each. Note that we are not providing information on using constant wattage heat cable (the cheap stuff available at local home improvement stores) because those cables are not safe for use on metal surfaces, or rubber, synthetic shakes, wood shakes, slate or flat roofs of any material. EasyHeat and FrostKing are the most popular brands of constant wattage heat cable and neither is approved for use on electrically ungrounded metal including metal roofs, gutters and roof valley flashings.