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.