Roofs are dimensioned according to atmospheric, insulation, and cladding material loads. In particular, the effect of wind and snow loads on the structure varies depending on the form, slope, and whether the building is open or enclosed.
Snow loads vary depending on the elevation above sea level of the building location, the slope of the roof, and the number of building spans. In cases where regional precipitation rates exceed average values, snow accumulated on the roof—further affected by wind loads—exceeds the calculated snow load capacity and damages the roof. In cases of excessive load formation, roofs collapse.
Wind and snowfall also cause gutters to freeze and icicles to form. Snow accumulated in the gutters turns into ice under the effect of the wind. Icing causes downspouts to clog, especially at the elbow joints. Due to blocked downspouts, melting ice cannot be drained and starts leaking into the building interior through the facade and roof spaces.
In addition to causing financial damage to buildings, adverse conditions created by snow and ice accumulation on roofs and gutters can also endanger human life.
Advantages Provided by the System
- Provides reliable protection against damage caused by harsh weather conditions,
- Eliminates the risk of icicles and snow accumulation on roofs,
- Protects buildings and people,
- Eliminates the need for manual snow shoveling on roofs,
- The system requires no maintenance.
System Components and Working Principle
ELEKTRA roof and gutter snow and ice melting systems consist of VCDR constant-wattage heating cables producing 30W/m, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, thermostats, and system accessories.
Extremely easy to install, the system activates automatically via the ETO2-4550 thermostat, along with outdoor temperature and moisture sensors.
The system is installed by laying the cable inside gutters, downspouts, and across roof surfaces. It is fixed in place using the system’s mounting accessories.
Its UV-resistant modified PVC outer sheath protects the cable from the degrading effects of sunlight and guarantees a long lifespan under all weather conditions. The control unit for constant-wattage heating cables activates the system only when low temperatures and high moisture levels are detected, ensuring economical operation.
ELEKTRA VCDR Heating Cable Structure
- Multi-wire heating core
- XLPE insulation
- PET covered aluminum foil shield
- Hybrid copper/monofilament fiber braiding
- Heat and UV resistant PVC outer sheath