How much electricity does a roof heating cable use?

A typical heat cable uses 5 watts per foot, regardless of the outside temperature. So, if your cable is 100 feet long, it uses 500 watts per hour. Expect to pay an additional $40 to $200 or more per month on your electricity bill. Be sure to turn manual cables off in the summer when you don't need them.

How do you install heat tape on a roof?

To install heat tape on your roof, place it along the lower edge in a precise zig-zag pattern to maximize coverage and heat distribution. Professional installers secure the tape with specialized clips that attach firmly to your shingles. This method ensures even heat distribution to effectively melt ice and snow while maintaining your roof's integrity during severe winter conditions.

Should I choose heated gutters or roof heating cables?

Choosing between heated gutters and roof heating cables usually comes down to budget, appearance, and performance. Heated gutters cost less to install and blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior, making them a discreet, lower-cost option for preventing ice dams. Roof heating cables deliver more customizable and powerful heat along roof edges to handle heavy snow and ice, but they require more material and labor, increasing your upfront investment. Evaluate your roof design, winter weather demands, and energy budget to select the system that works best for your property.

Do roof heating cables prevent ice dams?

Roof heating cables prevent ice dams by melting snow and stopping ice buildup at the roof edge. Ice damming occurs when melting snow refreezes on a cold roof—often right above the gutter line—and blocks water from draining, which can force moisture under shingles into your home. Heating cables maintain a warm channel that clears ice dams as soon as they form and protects your roof from water damage and structural issues.

How long do roof heating cables last?

Roof heating cables last between two and ten years before replacement is needed, wearing out faster than your roof itself. Their lifespan depends on climate severity, cable type, and exposure to physical damage. Consistent inspections and preventative maintenance—such as clearing debris, tightening clips, and checking electrical connections—can extend their service life and ensure reliable snow and ice protection each winter.

How do I safely remove snow from my roof?

To safely remove snow from your roof, start with a specially designed roof rake, standing firmly on the ground and pulling snow downhill rather than climbing onto the roof. You can also apply calcium chloride ice melt to break up stubborn ice or gently use a secured rope from a safe vantage point. Keep in mind that large snow slabs can weigh hundreds of pounds and pose a serious fall risk. If conditions are hazardous or you lack the right equipment, hire a professional to protect your safety and your roof’s integrity.

Top-Rated Heating Cable for Roof Installations Experts in Dale City, VA

Exterior Medics

7540 Accotink Park Rd

4.59(

495

)

•Approved Pro

Exterior Medics

7540 Accotink Park Rd

4.59(

495

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

1628 local quotes requested

18 years of experience

Exterior Medics is a premier home remodeling company, specializing in exterior replacement and repairs for both commercial and residential properties. When it comes to service and execution, we are unmatched. We've earned the Angie's List Super Service Award for 8 consecutive years, and are among just 2% of contractors nationwide to earn the GAF Master Elite status. Our team handles every project with utmost care and a laser-focused attention to detail. We consider every home we touch to be a reflection of our high standards, and treat every homeowner like a beloved member of our own family. Bonded and well insured. Licensed in both Maryland and Virginia.

"Spent ~$50,000 on a new roof with them. Thought everything went well. Years later discovered that they had not sealed the cricket on the chimney well enough. Discovered water coming in and eventually rotting the wallboard, studs, etc. Had to replace entire wall. Called them about the issue, they sent a rep. He said it was the chimney's fault, it was leaking. Not so, opened the wall and ceiling and had another roofer come spray water on the chimney, nothing, no leak. Then sprayed water on the cricket, water came in. Exterior Medics would not admit any fault. Had it repaired, no leak, no problem since then. Had recommended to a friend, never gain, he also had a bad experience. DO NOT USE IF YOU WANT QUALITY WORK AND A COMPANY HAT STANDS BEHIND THEIR WORK."

Peter K on January 2025

Exterior Medics is a premier home remodeling company, specializing in exterior replacement and repairs for both commercial and residential properties. When it comes to service and execution, we are unmatched. We've earned the Angie's List Super Service Award for 8 consecutive years, and are among just 2% of contractors nationwide to earn the GAF Master Elite status. Our team handles every project with utmost care and a laser-focused attention to detail. We consider every home we touch to be a reflection of our high standards, and treat every homeowner like a beloved member of our own family. Bonded and well insured. Licensed in both Maryland and Virginia.

"Spent ~$50,000 on a new roof with them. Thought everything went well. Years later discovered that they had not sealed the cricket on the chimney well enough. Discovered water coming in and eventually rotting the wallboard, studs, etc. Had to replace entire wall. Called them about the issue, they sent a rep. He said it was the chimney's fault, it was leaking. Not so, opened the wall and ceiling and had another roofer come spray water on the chimney, nothing, no leak. Then sprayed water on the cricket, water came in. Exterior Medics would not admit any fault. Had it repaired, no leak, no problem since then. Had recommended to a friend, never gain, he also had a bad experience. DO NOT USE IF YOU WANT QUALITY WORK AND A COMPANY HAT STANDS BEHIND THEIR WORK."

Peter K on January 2025

Long Home Products

650 Corporate Dr.

3.67(

3

)

•Approved Pro

Long Home Products

650 Corporate Dr.

3.67(

3

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

2283 local quotes requested

80 years of experience

With over 70 years of experience in home improvement, Long Home Products is the industry-leading company you can trust to give you peace of mind. We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We are experts in all aspects of roofing, bathroom, window and door projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

"I had my roof replaced by Long Home and it was a great experience. From start to finish, the customer service, communication, quality of materials, and speed of install was exceptional."

Dana P on January 2025

With over 70 years of experience in home improvement, Long Home Products is the industry-leading company you can trust to give you peace of mind. We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We are experts in all aspects of roofing, bathroom, window and door projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

"I had my roof replaced by Long Home and it was a great experience. From start to finish, the customer service, communication, quality of materials, and speed of install was exceptional."

Dana P on January 2025

Vanguard Roofing

3050 S Seminole Trl

4.84(

31

)

•Approved Pro

Vanguard Roofing

3050 S Seminole Trl

4.84(

31

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

482 local quotes requested

We are specialists in roofing replacement and gutter installations. Our installers are certified, highly-trained, and known for top-quality work. To experience our excellent customer service, call now to set up your estimate at (434) 484-2372.

"Vanguard Roofing was our 2nd choice, so there was no work done. The issue was on our end, not Vanguards, as to why we chose someone else. I would have no problem recommending them to others, which I already have done. They were very helpful in understanding and explaining how a high wind-resistance roof is installed. The only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is because Vanguard did not install the roof."

Larry P on May 2023

We are specialists in roofing replacement and gutter installations. Our installers are certified, highly-trained, and known for top-quality work. To experience our excellent customer service, call now to set up your estimate at (434) 484-2372.

"Vanguard Roofing was our 2nd choice, so there was no work done. The issue was on our end, not Vanguards, as to why we chose someone else. I would have no problem recommending them to others, which I already have done. They were very helpful in understanding and explaining how a high wind-resistance roof is installed. The only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is because Vanguard did not install the roof."

Larry P on May 2023

The Home Doctor

6066 Leesburg Pike

4.58(

139

)

•Approved Pro

The Home Doctor

6066 Leesburg Pike

4.58(

139

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

1729 local quotes requested

12 years of experience

At The Home Doctor, we go beyond exterior improvements – we protect the health of your home. As a locally owned and operated business, our mission is simple: to provide you, our valued homeowner, with superior products and personalized service. Big Savings: Limited Time Only – 50% OFF Installation TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Offer valid on complete replacement projects of 10+ windows, entire roofs, or all sides of siding. Gutter, door, and attic insulation projects qualify with a minimum job cost of $7,500. Discount applies to 50% off installation costs only, which typically account for 20-30% of the total job cost, resulting in a 10-15% overall project discount. Valid for new contracts only, cannot be combined with other offers. Valid on initial visit only, and has no cash value. Residential projects only; exclusions apply. Deferred payments only valid with this promotion. The Home Doctor reserves the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time.

"We were looking to increase our attic insulation and met The Home Doctor Company at the Capital Remodel and Garden Show in February 2025 as well as some other companies. We consulted with several companies and decided to go with The Hone Doctor for our attic insulation. The company rep, Chris Lear, was very good explaining what they would do and why our attic needed R-38 insulation. I knew we needed more but did not realize our attic was only R-13. I have worked with numerous contractors before on projects and felt this was a really good company plus they have great reviews. The installation of the attic insulation went very well. They do install siding as well but decided to put this project off for now. Would highly recommend this company."

Beverly B on March 2025

At The Home Doctor, we go beyond exterior improvements – we protect the health of your home. As a locally owned and operated business, our mission is simple: to provide you, our valued homeowner, with superior products and personalized service. Big Savings: Limited Time Only – 50% OFF Installation TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Offer valid on complete replacement projects of 10+ windows, entire roofs, or all sides of siding. Gutter, door, and attic insulation projects qualify with a minimum job cost of $7,500. Discount applies to 50% off installation costs only, which typically account for 20-30% of the total job cost, resulting in a 10-15% overall project discount. Valid for new contracts only, cannot be combined with other offers. Valid on initial visit only, and has no cash value. Residential projects only; exclusions apply. Deferred payments only valid with this promotion. The Home Doctor reserves the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time.

"We were looking to increase our attic insulation and met The Home Doctor Company at the Capital Remodel and Garden Show in February 2025 as well as some other companies. We consulted with several companies and decided to go with The Hone Doctor for our attic insulation. The company rep, Chris Lear, was very good explaining what they would do and why our attic needed R-38 insulation. I knew we needed more but did not realize our attic was only R-13. I have worked with numerous contractors before on projects and felt this was a really good company plus they have great reviews. The installation of the attic insulation went very well. They do install siding as well but decided to put this project off for now. Would highly recommend this company."

Beverly B on March 2025

Keraman Construction Company

3920 Silk Tree Court

5.00(

4

)

•Approved Pro

Keraman Construction Company

3920 Silk Tree Court

5.00(

4

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

269 local quotes requested

At Keraman Company, we stand as a beacon of excellence in the roofing industry, dedicated to providing unparalleled services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our valued clients. With a legacy of craftsmanship and a commitment to innovation, we have become a trusted name for all things roofing. At the core of our mission is a dedication to delivering roofing solutions that not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations. We strive to safeguard homes and businesses with top-quality roofing services, ensuring durability, reliability, and peace of mind. Our team is comprised of seasoned professionals, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project. From skilled craftsmen to certified inspectors, we have the skills and experience necessary to tackle roofing challenges of any scale.

"I was very satisfied with the quality and workmanship. Also there were no issues with the insurance company. There was very little wait time between the claim and the repairs being performed"

Donald A on October 2024

At Keraman Company, we stand as a beacon of excellence in the roofing industry, dedicated to providing unparalleled services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our valued clients. With a legacy of craftsmanship and a commitment to innovation, we have become a trusted name for all things roofing. At the core of our mission is a dedication to delivering roofing solutions that not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations. We strive to safeguard homes and businesses with top-quality roofing services, ensuring durability, reliability, and peace of mind. Our team is comprised of seasoned professionals, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project. From skilled craftsmen to certified inspectors, we have the skills and experience necessary to tackle roofing challenges of any scale.

"I was very satisfied with the quality and workmanship. Also there were no issues with the insurance company. There was very little wait time between the claim and the repairs being performed"

Donald A on October 2024

Pond Roofing Co Inc

2985 Prosperity Ave

4.87(

769

)

•Approved Pro

Pond Roofing Co Inc

2985 Prosperity Ave

4.87(

769

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

684 local quotes requested

2018-2024 Super Service Award Winner in Roofing, Siding, Gutters, and Skylights! Pond Roofing Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Northern Virginia residents for almost 60 years. We have been consistently named one of the top companies in the Washington, D.C. area. Our mission is to provide outstanding customer service and focus on client satisfaction. Let us help you with your exterior needs.

"As we have come to expect, Pond did a great job, from our initial inquiry, to the timely estimate and ending with the professional installation and clean up. Pond has done many projects for us over the years. It’s nice to know Pond is the only contractor we will ever need for roofing and more."

David M on June 2025

2018-2024 Super Service Award Winner in Roofing, Siding, Gutters, and Skylights! Pond Roofing Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Northern Virginia residents for almost 60 years. We have been consistently named one of the top companies in the Washington, D.C. area. Our mission is to provide outstanding customer service and focus on client satisfaction. Let us help you with your exterior needs.

"As we have come to expect, Pond did a great job, from our initial inquiry, to the timely estimate and ending with the professional installation and clean up. Pond has done many projects for us over the years. It’s nice to know Pond is the only contractor we will ever need for roofing and more."

David M on June 2025

R M Banning Roofing

7635-B Fullerton Rd

4.78(

253

)

•Approved Pro

R M Banning Roofing

7635-B Fullerton Rd

4.78(

253

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers

820 local quotes requested

2024 Super Service Award Winner in Roofing, Siding and Windows! R.M. Banning is a family owned business serving Northern Virginia for over 40 years. For over four decades R.M. Banning has earned the trust of thousands of customers through our new Roof, Siding and Windows. Top quality products and master applicators are the key to our success. Chances are if you live in Northern Virginia the R.M. Banning crews have worked for one or more of your neighbors. Consult with one of our estimators today and find out which products and colors will freshen your home and give it that new look. Take a look at the new Limited Lifetime warranties on siding and roofing products that are changing the home improvement industry.

"Workers were on time, as was the person who did our estimate. They all worked hard, and did a great job. Very satisfied."

Cynthia R on September 2025

2024 Super Service Award Winner in Roofing, Siding and Windows! R.M. Banning is a family owned business serving Northern Virginia for over 40 years. For over four decades R.M. Banning has earned the trust of thousands of customers through our new Roof, Siding and Windows. Top quality products and master applicators are the key to our success. Chances are if you live in Northern Virginia the R.M. Banning crews have worked for one or more of your neighbors. Consult with one of our estimators today and find out which products and colors will freshen your home and give it that new look. Take a look at the new Limited Lifetime warranties on siding and roofing products that are changing the home improvement industry.

"Workers were on time, as was the person who did our estimate. They all worked hard, and did a great job. Very satisfied."

Cynthia R on September 2025

Amazing Skylights Inc

9104 Manassas Drive, Suite N,

4.79(

123

)

•Approved Pro

Amazing Skylights Inc

9104 Manassas Drive, Suite N,

4.79(

123

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

239 local quotes requested

WHEN IT COMES TO ROOFING, WE HAVE YOU COVERED! OVER 28 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE! We are an award-winning top roofing installer, specializing in full replacement of Asphalt Shingle, Flat Roof, and Standing Seam Metal Roof Systems. With expert installation and high quality materials, we offier Lifetime-limited Warranties AND one of our superivors will be on site for your project from start to finish! We are also a premier dealer and installer for Solatube International, maker of the world-famous Solatube miracle skylight and Solarstar solar-powered attic fan. Solatubes are an affordable way to bring natural light into dark areas of your home - bathrooms, hallways, closets, kitchens – any areas that needs more light. Solatubes cost much less than conventional skylights, save on electric bills, are guaranteed not to leak, come with a 10-year warranty and are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit on parts and labor. Solatube's widely popular Solarstar attic fan literally pays for itself. It costs nothing to operate, installs in one hour, is guaranteed for 10 years and is also eligible for a 30 % federal tax credit. Save money and go Green with our wonderful products and services. We provide exceptional service to our clients and offer them with the best daylighting system in the world, America's number one selling solar attic fan and more. For additional information and to set up estimates and installations give us a call. We specialize in Solatube sales and installation, expert roofing repairs and replacements, and installing exceptional new gutters and gutter guards. Seeing is believing so please visit our beautiful new showroom, where we have a dozen exciting Solatube models on display. Contact us TODAY for your FREE estimate!!

"Fast on site response, expert recommendations, perfectly performed work. HIGHLY Recommended!!!"

Frederick M G on April 2023

WHEN IT COMES TO ROOFING, WE HAVE YOU COVERED! OVER 28 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE! We are an award-winning top roofing installer, specializing in full replacement of Asphalt Shingle, Flat Roof, and Standing Seam Metal Roof Systems. With expert installation and high quality materials, we offier Lifetime-limited Warranties AND one of our superivors will be on site for your project from start to finish! We are also a premier dealer and installer for Solatube International, maker of the world-famous Solatube miracle skylight and Solarstar solar-powered attic fan. Solatubes are an affordable way to bring natural light into dark areas of your home - bathrooms, hallways, closets, kitchens – any areas that needs more light. Solatubes cost much less than conventional skylights, save on electric bills, are guaranteed not to leak, come with a 10-year warranty and are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit on parts and labor. Solatube's widely popular Solarstar attic fan literally pays for itself. It costs nothing to operate, installs in one hour, is guaranteed for 10 years and is also eligible for a 30 % federal tax credit. Save money and go Green with our wonderful products and services. We provide exceptional service to our clients and offer them with the best daylighting system in the world, America's number one selling solar attic fan and more. For additional information and to set up estimates and installations give us a call. We specialize in Solatube sales and installation, expert roofing repairs and replacements, and installing exceptional new gutters and gutter guards. Seeing is believing so please visit our beautiful new showroom, where we have a dozen exciting Solatube models on display. Contact us TODAY for your FREE estimate!!

"Fast on site response, expert recommendations, perfectly performed work. HIGHLY Recommended!!!"

Frederick M G on April 2023

Home Genius Exteriors

8201 Corporate Dr.

4.87(

282

)

•Approved Pro

Home Genius Exteriors

8201 Corporate Dr.

4.87(

282

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

4510 local quotes requested

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Maryland and Washington DC by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Home Genius Came by to install a roof on my home! The project was completed in a timely fashion and the crew worked very hard and was professional throughout the process! And the job was done well and to my standards. The sales rep Ty Pearmon was very professional, knowledgeable and explained all of the products and process regarding my roof. And the project manager Angel Martinez was very attentive to my every question and concern, and even explained the process of the roof with photos and expertise. Thank you to home Genius for their hard work and professionalism. I would recommend them to all family and friends!"

Alfreda E on September 2025

Elevate your home with Home Genius Exteriors, setting the standard in Maryland and Washington DC by offering full-service solutions for roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and insulation. We support our veterans and communities by supporting local and national charitable organizations through our Home Genius Cares initiative. With an Owens Corning® Platinum Preferred designation, we also offer flexible payment options, industry leading warranties and a wide range of premium products tailored for your home. It’s time for a different experience, entrust your next home project to a genius and schedule your free inspection today!

"Home Genius Came by to install a roof on my home! The project was completed in a timely fashion and the crew worked very hard and was professional throughout the process! And the job was done well and to my standards. The sales rep Ty Pearmon was very professional, knowledgeable and explained all of the products and process regarding my roof. And the project manager Angel Martinez was very attentive to my every question and concern, and even explained the process of the roof with photos and expertise. Thank you to home Genius for their hard work and professionalism. I would recommend them to all family and friends!"

Alfreda E on September 2025

Premier Group Roofing Contractors

2825 Washington Blvd

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor

•Approved Pro

Premier Group Roofing Contractors

2825 Washington Blvd

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor

•Approved Pro

1150 local quotes requested

Premier Group, established in 2009, is a women-owned small business specializing in comprehensive residential, industrial, and commercial roofing services. Beyond roofing, we provide expert solutions in siding installation, masonry work, architectural drawings, and other property enhancements. We take pride in being a trusted partner for property managers, business owners, and homeowners, offering NDL warranties and flexible financing options to meet diverse needs. In cases of property damage, Premier Group stands out as a specialist in claims and loss recovery. Our team evaluates and documents damages, negotiates with insurance companies, and maximizes policyholder benefits while minimizing risk. As members of prestigious organizations like the NRCA, CRCA, BBB, and ABC, we collaborate with experienced lawyers, inspectors, engineers, and builders to deliver unmatched results. From insurance restoration to emergency repairs and property transformations, no project is too big or small for Premier Group.

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Exterior Medics

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Long Home Products

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Vanguard Roofing

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The Dale City, VA homeowners’ guide to heating cable for roof installations

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