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Find Heating cable for roof installers in Kensington

Avatar for Homefix

Homefix

4.72(
384
)
Approved Pro

Homefix

4.72(
384
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
131 local quotes requested

Homefix has been serving Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Washington D.C. homeowners since 1990, offering a variety of services that improve the exterior appearance, value and energy efficiency of homes like yours. Our customers enjoy fast installation times, excellent customer service, and a variety of top of the line products that will reduce your home energy usage, improve insulation from outside temperature and noise, and instantly increase the appeal of your home. As a GAF Certified Master Elite roofing contractor, we can offer the best warranties in the roofing industry, as well as the added peace of mind of working with one of the top 3% of roofers in North America. Homefix is a leading team of home improvement professionals serving the Mid-Atlantic. We specialize in all types of windows, siding, roofing, doors, trim, shutters and gutters.

"This company is very shady and unethical. We selected them because of the price. It was substantially lower than other quotes received. The reason it was lower was because it wasn't accurate. With the dumpster in our yard, and the roofing materials delivered only then did they "discover" we also needed all new planking. We were prepared and budgeted for a $21,300 project. Suddenly we needed to come up with an additional $8,500 for the plywood. This was part of all the other roofer's quotes. When I voiced that I wanted to use another company they told me I signed a contract and they planned to enforce it. If I broke the contract I would have to give them 1/3. I had no choice but to cave. When I pressed on why this wasn't discovered until they started- they had no response. I was stuck and was forced to proceed (or walk away from $7,100). BEWARE!!! 6/25/2025"

Thomas F on June 2025

Homefix has been serving Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Washington D.C. homeowners since 1990, offering a variety of services that improve the exterior appearance, value and energy efficiency of homes like yours. Our customers enjoy fast installation times, excellent customer service, and a variety of top of the line products that will reduce your home energy usage, improve insulation from outside temperature and noise, and instantly increase the appeal of your home. As a GAF Certified Master Elite roofing contractor, we can offer the best warranties in the roofing industry, as well as the added peace of mind of working with one of the top 3% of roofers in North America. Homefix is a leading team of home improvement professionals serving the Mid-Atlantic. We specialize in all types of windows, siding, roofing, doors, trim, shutters and gutters.

"This company is very shady and unethical. We selected them because of the price. It was substantially lower than other quotes received. The reason it was lower was because it wasn't accurate. With the dumpster in our yard, and the roofing materials delivered only then did they "discover" we also needed all new planking. We were prepared and budgeted for a $21,300 project. Suddenly we needed to come up with an additional $8,500 for the plywood. This was part of all the other roofer's quotes. When I voiced that I wanted to use another company they told me I signed a contract and they planned to enforce it. If I broke the contract I would have to give them 1/3. I had no choice but to cave. When I pressed on why this wasn't discovered until they started- they had no response. I was stuck and was forced to proceed (or walk away from $7,100). BEWARE!!! 6/25/2025"

Thomas F on June 2025


Avatar for Presidential Exteriors LLC

Presidential Exteriors LLC

4.88(
144
)
Approved Pro

Presidential Exteriors LLC

4.88(
144
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers
128 local quotes requested

Licensed in MD, DC and VA, Presidential Exteriors is your one stop solution for any exterior remodeling needs. Our award winning products and experienced installers will ensure that your home is a Presidential Home. We look forward to showing you how our customer centric approach and commitment to communication guarantees satisfaction the first time, every time.

"Presidential Exteriors takes their lifetime warranties very seriously. Every time I've had an issue since they redid my roof, I've contacted them, and they've fixed the problem without charging. I appreciate them a lot. Good job, James, Hicks, and Glu!"

Russell W on September 2025

Licensed in MD, DC and VA, Presidential Exteriors is your one stop solution for any exterior remodeling needs. Our award winning products and experienced installers will ensure that your home is a Presidential Home. We look forward to showing you how our customer centric approach and commitment to communication guarantees satisfaction the first time, every time.

"Presidential Exteriors takes their lifetime warranties very seriously. Every time I've had an issue since they redid my roof, I've contacted them, and they've fixed the problem without charging. I appreciate them a lot. Good job, James, Hicks, and Glu!"

Russell W on September 2025


Avatar for W E Griffin Roofing

W E Griffin Roofing

4.97(
64
)
Approved Pro

W E Griffin Roofing

4.97(
64
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
94 years of experience

W. E. Griffin Roofing is Maryland’s premiere roofing company. Incorporated in 1931, we have been servicing the D.C. and Maryland areas as a family owned and operated company by putting our customers first. Our quality roofing services focus on our most important friends; home owners and home builders. We look forward to building a lasting friendship with you in order to service all of your roofing needs.

"new flat copper roof and flashing"

Sabrina Z on January 2021

W. E. Griffin Roofing is Maryland’s premiere roofing company. Incorporated in 1931, we have been servicing the D.C. and Maryland areas as a family owned and operated company by putting our customers first. Our quality roofing services focus on our most important friends; home owners and home builders. We look forward to building a lasting friendship with you in order to service all of your roofing needs.

"new flat copper roof and flashing"

Sabrina Z on January 2021


Avatar for Augustine Roofing LLC

Augustine Roofing LLC

4.94(
747
)
Approved Pro

Augustine Roofing LLC

4.94(
747
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
60 local quotes requested

WE NOW SERVICE MARYLAND FOR NEW ROOFS ONLY NO REPAIRS AT THIS TIME. Our experienced team, based out of Sterling, Va, has built a reputation for providing high-quality residential and commercial roofing services at affordable prices. Give us a call for a quick consultation. We'd be happy to schedule a free estimate and provide you with all of the material and warranty information you need to help you make your decision. Augustine is a veteran and offers military and senior citizen discounts. Class-A Contractors License # 2705 124869A. Additional contact name - Erin Howard.

"Overall, the workmanship was excellent, the price reasonable, and most importantly, Augustine continued to build a huge amount of trust with the customer through an honest and transparent process from beginning to end. Scheduling the initial estimate was easy and timely, good communication continued through the contract process, but we had to wait two months for word on work scheduling. Dakota Biller was a Godsend. He expertly talked through the full scope of options, pros, and cons. He listened to our unique needs, provided helpful guidance, and did not attempt to upsell. Installation was professional and cleanup was thorough. The final product looks magnificent! Price was the most reasonable of all highly ranked companies primarily due to Augustine’s willingness to only replace rotted fascia with new wood. Their 10-year warranty provided peace of mind. This was a RARE hassle-free project, and I cannot recommend Augustine Roofing enough."

David G on May 2025

WE NOW SERVICE MARYLAND FOR NEW ROOFS ONLY NO REPAIRS AT THIS TIME. Our experienced team, based out of Sterling, Va, has built a reputation for providing high-quality residential and commercial roofing services at affordable prices. Give us a call for a quick consultation. We'd be happy to schedule a free estimate and provide you with all of the material and warranty information you need to help you make your decision. Augustine is a veteran and offers military and senior citizen discounts. Class-A Contractors License # 2705 124869A. Additional contact name - Erin Howard.

"Overall, the workmanship was excellent, the price reasonable, and most importantly, Augustine continued to build a huge amount of trust with the customer through an honest and transparent process from beginning to end. Scheduling the initial estimate was easy and timely, good communication continued through the contract process, but we had to wait two months for word on work scheduling. Dakota Biller was a Godsend. He expertly talked through the full scope of options, pros, and cons. He listened to our unique needs, provided helpful guidance, and did not attempt to upsell. Installation was professional and cleanup was thorough. The final product looks magnificent! Price was the most reasonable of all highly ranked companies primarily due to Augustine’s willingness to only replace rotted fascia with new wood. Their 10-year warranty provided peace of mind. This was a RARE hassle-free project, and I cannot recommend Augustine Roofing enough."

David G on May 2025


Keith Roofing

4.87(
313
)
Approved Pro

Keith Roofing

4.87(
313
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers
32 local quotes requested

Keith Roofing has been serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers since 1960. We've built our reputation on providing a high-quality finished product that will last for years! Count on our team for honesty and integrity when it comes to serving the needs of home and business owners in the DC area. Because each roof provides different challenges, such as the pitch of the roof, type of shingles, the gutter system, and number of valleys, Keith Roofing offers thorough on-site inspections and true estimates of your roofing repair needs. WE are based in and only service Washington,DC- SO we specialize on working on these Beautiful Historic Homes we have here in the District.

"They couldn't have been more responsive or helpful. Customer satisfaction was clearly their top priority. It was literally some of the best customer service I have ever experienced! I could not recommend them more!"

Brent L on October 2020

Keith Roofing has been serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers since 1960. We've built our reputation on providing a high-quality finished product that will last for years! Count on our team for honesty and integrity when it comes to serving the needs of home and business owners in the DC area. Because each roof provides different challenges, such as the pitch of the roof, type of shingles, the gutter system, and number of valleys, Keith Roofing offers thorough on-site inspections and true estimates of your roofing repair needs. WE are based in and only service Washington,DC- SO we specialize on working on these Beautiful Historic Homes we have here in the District.

"They couldn't have been more responsive or helpful. Customer satisfaction was clearly their top priority. It was literally some of the best customer service I have ever experienced! I could not recommend them more!"

Brent L on October 2020


Avatar for Amazing Skylights Inc

Amazing Skylights Inc

4.88(
117
)
Approved Pro

Amazing Skylights Inc

4.88(
117
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
18 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


Avatar for Power Home Remodeling

Power Home Remodeling

4.77(
695
)
Approved Pro

Power Home Remodeling

4.77(
695
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
120 local quotes requested

As the nation’s largest full-service exterior home remodeler, we are backed by over 1,000+ Angi Super Service awards and more than one million happy customers. Why? Because we treat each job as an audition. An opportunity to prove ourselves to you. And the results speak for themselves. So make your home all it was meant to be with our unrivaled exterior services. Contact us today for a free, no obligation estimate on replacement windows, roofing, siding, doors, or attic insulation.

"We have gone with power many times and are always happy with their professionalism and the quality of the product. We like that they communicate well, have financing options, and they are always super personable people. Shout-out to Jonathan for the cool suspenders."

Scherlynn B on June 2025

As the nation’s largest full-service exterior home remodeler, we are backed by over 1,000+ Angi Super Service awards and more than one million happy customers. Why? Because we treat each job as an audition. An opportunity to prove ourselves to you. And the results speak for themselves. So make your home all it was meant to be with our unrivaled exterior services. Contact us today for a free, no obligation estimate on replacement windows, roofing, siding, doors, or attic insulation.

"We have gone with power many times and are always happy with their professionalism and the quality of the product. We like that they communicate well, have financing options, and they are always super personable people. Shout-out to Jonathan for the cool suspenders."

Scherlynn B on June 2025


Avatar for John Krause Construction

John Krause Construction

4.67(
127
)
Approved Pro

John Krause Construction

4.67(
127
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
108 local quotes requested
27 years of experience

John Krause Construction, Inc. is an unparalleled team of professionals dedicated to the mission of custom home design and building. Together the John Krause team creates a superlative custom home building and home improvement experience tailored to the needs, wants and dreams of each client. We are passionate about our client relationships and this is reflected in all that we do. From the in-house design process, interior and exterior customization and artisanal craftsmanship to the professional management and accurate fixed pricing, our aim is your total satisfaction with your new home, architectural restoration or home remodeling project. 

"I am writing to formally express my deep dissatisfaction with the recent retaining wall replacement project completed by John Krause Construction (JKC) at my property. After reading positive reviews and receiving an estimate that, although over my budget, seemed reasonable for the work involved, I made the decision to hire JKC. Unfortunately, this has proven to be a significant mistake, and I am left extremely disappointed with both the quality of work and the overall experience. Here are the main issues I encountered: 1. Unprofessional Behavior: The crew exhibited unacceptable behavior while working on my property. Not only did I witness them disposing of bodily fluids on-site, but they were also disrespectful and dismissive. when I raised concerns no response was received. I now smell urine when entering and exiting my garage. 2. Unresponsive Ownership: I have attempted to reach out to the owner multiple times to address these concerns and resolve the issues, but my messages have been met with silence. This lack of communication is incredibly frustrating and has only added to my disappointment. The owner refused to speak on the phone since the owner was made aware of the call being recorded. 3. Property Damage: During the construction process, my property was left damaged in multiple areas. This included e.g., landscaping destruction, equipment damage. Personal crew members vehicles being driven through my yard leaving deep tire marks damage. 4. Subpar Quality of Work: Despite the high cost of the project, the final result does not meet the standards outlined in the estimate or contract. No proper grading was completed. Every time it rains pools of water sits in front and behind the wall. The response received was. “we have passed all inspections.  There will be some water pooling while it is settling still. Plus the fact of the hard rain today, it will happen.” The wall has been completed for 2 months. Given the extensive problems, stress and anxiety I have faced. I do not recommend John Krause Construction."

B F on April 2025

John Krause Construction, Inc. is an unparalleled team of professionals dedicated to the mission of custom home design and building. Together the John Krause team creates a superlative custom home building and home improvement experience tailored to the needs, wants and dreams of each client. We are passionate about our client relationships and this is reflected in all that we do. From the in-house design process, interior and exterior customization and artisanal craftsmanship to the professional management and accurate fixed pricing, our aim is your total satisfaction with your new home, architectural restoration or home remodeling project. 

"I am writing to formally express my deep dissatisfaction with the recent retaining wall replacement project completed by John Krause Construction (JKC) at my property. After reading positive reviews and receiving an estimate that, although over my budget, seemed reasonable for the work involved, I made the decision to hire JKC. Unfortunately, this has proven to be a significant mistake, and I am left extremely disappointed with both the quality of work and the overall experience. Here are the main issues I encountered: 1. Unprofessional Behavior: The crew exhibited unacceptable behavior while working on my property. Not only did I witness them disposing of bodily fluids on-site, but they were also disrespectful and dismissive. when I raised concerns no response was received. I now smell urine when entering and exiting my garage. 2. Unresponsive Ownership: I have attempted to reach out to the owner multiple times to address these concerns and resolve the issues, but my messages have been met with silence. This lack of communication is incredibly frustrating and has only added to my disappointment. The owner refused to speak on the phone since the owner was made aware of the call being recorded. 3. Property Damage: During the construction process, my property was left damaged in multiple areas. This included e.g., landscaping destruction, equipment damage. Personal crew members vehicles being driven through my yard leaving deep tire marks damage. 4. Subpar Quality of Work: Despite the high cost of the project, the final result does not meet the standards outlined in the estimate or contract. No proper grading was completed. Every time it rains pools of water sits in front and behind the wall. The response received was. “we have passed all inspections.  There will be some water pooling while it is settling still. Plus the fact of the hard rain today, it will happen.” The wall has been completed for 2 months. Given the extensive problems, stress and anxiety I have faced. I do not recommend John Krause Construction."

B F on April 2025


Avatar for Exterior Medics

Exterior Medics

4.71(
446
)
Approved Pro

Exterior Medics

4.71(
446
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
206 local quotes requested

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


Avatar for Skyline Construction Group DMV, LLC

Skyline Construction Group DMV, LLC

4.73(
15
)
Approved Pro

Skyline Construction Group DMV, LLC

4.73(
15
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
18 local quotes requested

Expert's in Concrete & Roofing Services : At Skyline Construction Group, we specialize in high-quality concrete & roofing solutions. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we guarantee that we won’t leave until the job is done right. We take pride in delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service on every project. Our experienced team is here to help no matter the project or project size. Explore our full range of services and schedule your free estimate today by calling or clicking below! 240-388-1123

"I hired this company from a list provided by Angi. I was looking for someone to repair my concrete, painted driveway. They first wanted to replace the driveway, but their price for that was $49,000. The only alternative they offered was to patch over the cracks and spalling on the existing concrete, and then repaint. That price was $8900, so I went with that option, with the understanding that they couldn't guarantee how well the patching would hold through the winter. I hired them based on their 5-star rating on the Angi list. They did an OK job with the patching, but there are two big problems with their paint job: 1) they didn't wait long enough to allow the patching to dry, so after two weeks the paint buckled over the patching, and 2) they didn't use a separate primer, so the paint didn't adhere well and peeled up in several places. I've called them several times. They keep promising to come back and fix these areas as a "courtesy", but they never show up."

John D on October 2025

Expert's in Concrete & Roofing Services : At Skyline Construction Group, we specialize in high-quality concrete & roofing solutions. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we guarantee that we won’t leave until the job is done right. We take pride in delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service on every project. Our experienced team is here to help no matter the project or project size. Explore our full range of services and schedule your free estimate today by calling or clicking below! 240-388-1123

"I hired this company from a list provided by Angi. I was looking for someone to repair my concrete, painted driveway. They first wanted to replace the driveway, but their price for that was $49,000. The only alternative they offered was to patch over the cracks and spalling on the existing concrete, and then repaint. That price was $8900, so I went with that option, with the understanding that they couldn't guarantee how well the patching would hold through the winter. I hired them based on their 5-star rating on the Angi list. They did an OK job with the patching, but there are two big problems with their paint job: 1) they didn't wait long enough to allow the patching to dry, so after two weeks the paint buckled over the patching, and 2) they didn't use a separate primer, so the paint didn't adhere well and peeled up in several places. I've called them several times. They keep promising to come back and fix these areas as a "courtesy", but they never show up."

John D on October 2025

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FAQs for heating cable for roof installation projects in Kensington, MD

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Kensington, MD homeowners’ guide to heating cable for roof installations

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.