How much does it cost to install roof heating cables?
How much does it cost to install roof heating cables?
$5 – $15 cost per linear foot installed
$500 to $2,000 average total cost installed
Cost of roof heating cables
Roof heating cable or heat tape costs $5 to $15 per linear foot installed, depending on the cable type and job complexity. The cost to run roof heating cables is $40 to $200 per month, depending on local electricity rates. Self-regulating cables cost more up front but save energy.
| Roof length | Average cost (16"-18" overhang) | Average cost (36"-42" overhang) |
|---|---|---|
| 100' | $500 – $1,500 | $550 – $1,600 |
| 150' | $750 – $2,300 | $800 – $2,350 |
| 200' | $1,000 – $3,000 | $1,100 – $3,100 |
Roof heat cable cost calculator
| National Average Cost | $1,100 |
| Minimum Cost | $400 |
| Maximum Cost | $3,100 |
| Average Range | $500 to $2,000 |
Roof heating cable installation costs
Roof heating cable prices are $0.70 to $4.50 per linear foot for materials alone, depending on the type. Self-regulating heat cable adjusts the heat output based on outdoor temperature. Manual heat cable, or constant wattage cable, releases the same amount of heat while plugged in, regardless of the weather.
| Tape type | Average cost* | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Self-regulating heat cable | $2.50 – $4.50 | Adjusts heat output based on outside temperature |
| Manual heat cable | $0.70 – $1.70 | Constant heat output while plugged in |
Roof heating cable is also called heat wire, de-icing cable, or roof ice cable. Heating cable is also called heat tape because their function and cost are similar. However, heat tape is flat instead of rounded. Some heat tapes and wires are suitable for warming pipes but not roofs or gutters.
The following factors affect the cost to install a roof heating cable:
Heating cable placement / pattern – Most heat cable is attached to the roof in a zig-zag pattern, which melts more snow but increases material costs.
Labor cost – Labor prices increase based on the roof size, accessibility, season, and local rates.
Roof type / overhang width – A roof with dormers, valleys, and longer eaves requires more heat cable and costs more than a simpler roof.
Accessibility / steep roof – A steep roof, no internal roof access, or multiple stories may increase labor costs.
Roof repair – After ice dam or snow damage, roof repair costs $800 to $2,500,depending on the extent of the damage.
Roof insulation – Attic insulation costs $1 to $4 per square foot installed and may decrease snow accumulation and energy costs.
Thermostat – An automatic cable control thermostat costs $40 to $120 and may be added to a manual roof heat cable to save electricity.
Heated gutters cost
Adding heat cable to existing gutters costs $2 to $15 per linear foot or $400 to $1,400 total installed. New gutters cost $4 to $8 per linear foot or $600 to $1,600 total installed. Heated gutters and downspouts provide roof drainage and help prevent ice dams.
| Project | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Retrofitting gutters | $400 – $1,400 |
| New gutter installation | $600 – $1,600 |
Cost to run roof heating cables
The cost to run roof heating cables is $40 to $200 per month, depending on local electricity rates. To save energy, choose self-regulating cables or turn heat cables on and off as needed.
In comparison, a snow rake costs $40 to $120 and physically remove snow without using electricity.
How much electricity does roof heat cable use?
A roof heat cable uses 5 to 8 watts per linear foot per hour in electricity. To save on energy costs, unplug manual heating cables during warm weather and install a snow and ice sensor to automatically turn the cables on and off during the winter.
Frequently asked questions
How much heat tape do I need for my roof?
To determine how much heat tape or cable you need for your roof:
Measure the roof edge in feet.
Measure the eave overhang in inches.
Multiply the roof length by the appropriate multiplier in the table below based on the eave overhang and roof type.
Add the gutter and downspout length if desired.
| Eave overhang | Standard roof | Metal roof (18” seam) | Metal roof (24” seam) |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | 2.0 | 2.5 | 2.0 |
| 12” | 2.8 | 2.8 | 2.4 |
| 24” | 3.8 | 3.6 | 2.4 |
| 36” | 4.8 | 4.3 | 3.6 |
Do heated gutters prevent ice dams?
Heated gutters prevent ice dams when plugged in and used properly. If the cable is unplugged before the ice melt fully drains or there are any blockages, the water could refreeze.
Getting quotes from roof heat cable installers
Before hiring a roofing contractor near you:
Read company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Look for companies with a state contractor license and certification from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
Select a licensed, insured, bonded company with 5+ years of experience.
Verify the company has experience with heat cable installation.
Get three or more quotes to compare.
Be careful with extremely low estimates as they could indicate poor quality.
Ask for written project estimates, contracts, and warranties before work begins.
Create a payment schedule instead of making a large upfront payment.
Questions to ask
How long have you been installing heating cables?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What certifications do you have? Are you an NRCA member?
Can I see references from your previous jobs?
Can you provide a detailed quote?
Are all labor and materials fees included in this estimate?
Does the estimate include removing any debris afterward?
How long will the project take?
Will you obtain all necessary permits for this project?
What is the payment schedule for this project?
What financing options do you offer?