Hiring the right heat tape installer is essential for ensuring the long-term performance and safety of your roof during winter months. With so many companies out there, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re choosing an installer who knows their craft. Here are the top questions to ask before making your decision.

5 Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Hiring Them:

1. What type of heat tape/ heat cable do you install?

Heat cable comes in two main types: self-regulating and constant wattage. Self-regulating heat cable automatically adjusts its power output based on the temperature outside, making it energy-efficient and perfect for cold climates that experience temperatures below 20°F. Constant wattage cable, on the other hand, provides consistent heat but doesn't hold up in Utah's winters and can be a fire risk if it overheats, is overlapped, or is installed incorrectly. Be sure to ask which type your installer plans to use and whether it fits your climate needs​​.

Red Flags: Unfamiliarity about heat cable. Their heat cable that lacks basic product information. If product information is not readily available about the brand, wattage, power consumption, warranty, or other product info, then it's likely its not manufacturer well. Heat cable can take a lot of power to run and unknown product information will lead to tripping breakers.

2. What is your background with heat cable?

Not all roofers have expertise in heat cable installation. Installing heat tape requires knowledge of roof types, electrical systems, and how snow and ice behave on roofs. Ask your potential installer how many years they’ve been working with heat cable and whether they specialize in it or offer it as a side service.

Red Flags: Be cautious of companies that don’t have a strong background in this area. Improper installation often lead to increased expenses with cable replacement and roof and home repair. 

3. How will you protect my roof?

Certain installation methods, like using nails or screws to attach heat cable, can void your roof’s warranty. Professional installers should use non-penetrating clips or adhesive methods to secure the cable. Make sure your installer is aware of your roof’s warranty requirements and plans to follow guidelines that won’t compromise the integrity of your roof​​.

Red Flags: Anyone reaching for nails, screws, or staples.

4. What Kind of Warranties Come With ?

High quality heat cable generally comes with a 5-10 year warranty from the manufacturer. A good installer will back their workmanship for at least a year, an industry standard. Ask if the warranty is from the manufacturer, the installer, or both, and check how long it lasts. You want to be covered in case of malfunction or installation errors. Be cautious of companies offering short warranties, especially for constant wattage cables which often come with a limited lifespan​. Even some Self-Regulating cables are more cheaply made and only offer a 2-year warranty.

Red Flags: 0-2 year product warranties. Less than a year workmanship warranties. Cheaper self-regulating heat cables, and constant wattage cables degrade fast, leaving you with an icy roof.

5. Do You Perform Electrical Work, or Do I Need an Electrician?

Heat tape systems often require dedicated electrical work, including installing a GFCI or GFEP breaker for safety. Find out if your heat tape installer handles the electrical components or if you need to hire a separate electrician. For self-regulating systems, you might need new electrical circuits or controllers to ensure efficient operation​. New builds in Utah now days are designed with heat cable in mind, so you may not need to do additional electrical work.

Red Flags: Unclear electrical guidelines from the contractor. Anyone who plans on just running extension cords to power the system(extremely frowned upon practice).

We are a Winter Solutions Company.

We specialize in roof heat cables, snow retention, and ice dam removal, so we know the ins and outs of designing systems that last. Our experience allows us to troubleshoot unique challenges and deliver reliable results. Nordic Solutions installs high-quality self-regulating heat cable that’s designed to last, making it a great long-term investment for your home.

Ready to get started? Contact Nordic Solutions for a free quote and professional advice on keeping your roof snow and ice-free all winter long.