How do I protect rain gutters from ice damage?

[bigtiller]

That's a whole different subject, of course.

That was my only concern.

 

[BlueKnife]

Something to consider regarding the use of heat tape.

That was my only concern.

I misunderstood. I thought the concern was about roof collapse.

 

[BlueKnife]

Regarding the use of heat tape. In most parts of the country, the most likely reason for loss of grid power and therefore shutdown of heat tape, is snow or ice storms.... Just something to consider.

 

[grsthegreat]

well, my house is on a whole house generator backup....

 

[BlueKnife]

well, my house is on a whole house generator backup....

Certainly worthwhile. Just wanted to throw out the idea for the OP to consider. If a person plans to rely on a generator for such things, they should definitely do a few practice runs ahead of time to make sure it all works. I live off grid and do construction for many people who are also off grid, so figuring out the most efficient ways to use (or not use) electricity is something I deal with a lot.

 

[Oaktree]

Regarding the use of heat tape. In most parts of the country, the most likely reason for loss of grid power and therefore shutdown of heat tape, is snow or ice storms.... Just something to consider.

Probably shouldn't be too much of a concern. When the power comes back on the heat tape will do its thing again. A few hours or even a couple days shouldn't hurt the gutters.

 

[grsthegreat]

I just ordered a set of heated steps pads , 10” x 30” plus a 3’ x 5’ heat mat for my front steps. Sick and tired of shoveling steps.

HeatTrak® Snow & Ice Melting Mats and Snow Removal Systems

HeatTrak® manufacturers heated snow & ice melting mats, perfect for snow removal on walkways, stairs & driveways. Heated mats connect together so you can customize your snow melting system. Industrial mats are larger, designed for high foot traffic zones & keep your facility safe from slip risks

heattrak.com

 

[plowhog]

how far does the metal on your roof extend past the eave and what is your roof pitch?

It extends about 3 feet past the exterior wall, 4 in 12 pitch. The building sales person talked me into that configuration to make it more fit in with a "high end residential rural area" and I agree. I regret that decision to this day, for this issue and more.

 

[plowhog]

I thought the concern was about roof collapse.

My building is properly engineered for snow load for the area. And after LAST year, I know I am safe. We have an unbelievable winter that will likely never recur in my lifetime.

 

[plowhog]

I do like this Raychem product as it increases output/heat as the temperature continues to drop further .....

Roof & Gutter De-Icing

nVent RAYCHEM roof and gutter de-icing systems are designed to keep your roof free of snow, icicles and ice dams by creating a continuous path for snow melt to drain. Our solutions are reliable and maintenance free, without compromising on aesthetics.

www.nvent.com