Gutter Heating Systems: A Permanent Fix for Janesville’s Ice Buildup

In Janesville, we are no strangers to the "Ice Dam." You’ve seen them: those massive, glittering icicles hanging from the eaves that look like they belong in a movie but actually signal a major problem for your home. When snow melts on your roof and refreezes in your gutters, it creates a block of ice that can tear gutters off their hangers, rot your fascia boards, and even cause water to back up under your shingles and into your living room.

At DMR Exteriors, we know that manual ice removal—climbing a ladder in sub-zero temps with a mallet—is both dangerous and ineffective. That’s why we recommend a proactive solution: Professional Gutter Heating Systems.

How Gutter Heating Systems Work

A gutter heating system isn't meant to melt all the snow on your roof. Instead, it’s designed to create a clear "drainage path" so that meltwater can flow freely through your gutters and downspouts rather than freezing in place.

Self-Regulating Heat Cables

We primarily use self-regulating cables. These "smart" cables are the gold standard because they adjust their heat output based on the outside temperature. When it’s freezing, they draw more power to keep the path clear; as it warms up, they power down to save energy.

• Zig-Zag Pattern: For maximum effectiveness, we install the cables in a zig-zag pattern along the roof's edge (the "eaves") and run them directly inside the gutter troughs and downspouts.

Gutter Heat Panels

For a more sleek, aesthetic look, heat panels can be installed. These are aluminum plates that cover the cable, distributing the heat more evenly across the gutter and protecting the cable from debris and UV damage.

Installation Tips for Wisconsin Homeowners

If you are considering a heating system to protect your gutters and roofing, keep these professional tips in mind:

• Clean Before You Install: Never install heat cables in gutters filled with leaves. Debris can act as an insulator or, worse, a fire hazard. Always pair your heating system with a gutter cleaning or protection system.
• Don't Forget the Downspouts: A common DIY mistake is only heating the gutters. If the water freezes in the downspout, the gutter will still overflow. The cable must run all the way through the downspout and out the bottom.
• Dedicated Power: High-quality systems should be plugged into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet. For the best results, have an electrician install a dedicated circuit to avoid tripping breakers during heavy winter storms.
• Timing is Everything: The best time to install these systems is in the fall or during a roof replacement. Trying to install them once an ice dam has already formed is significantly more difficult and expensive.

Why Janesville Trusts DMR Exteriors

At DMR Exteriors, we don't believe in "one-size-fits-all" fixes. We evaluate your roof's pitch, your home’s insulation, and your current gutter health to design a system that actually works. We take pride in helping our neighbors avoid the costly water damage that follows a rough Wisconsin winter.

Don't spend another winter worrying about falling ice or leaking ceilings. Protect your home with a professional gutter heating system.

Ready to melt your worries away?