Accumulating snow acts as an insulator between the outside cold and a building roof. Normal heat loss and solar rays warm the roof causing the snow to melt. When the snowmelt runs down the roof and reaches the overhang, it begins to freeze, especially if the gutters and downspouts are blocked. This often causes ice dams to be formed at the roof’s edge, in valleys and near dormers, which prevents melt water from flowing off the roof. Instead, the water flow backs up underneath the roofing materials and freezes. When the ice melts, it leaks through the roof, causing roof and interior damage. Building owners should ensure that gutters and downspouts are cleaned regularly and that ice and snow do not block the drainage downspouts at ground level. Consider installing roof & gutter cables and heat tapes to prevent water damage caused by snow and ice buildup in metal or plastic/vinyl gutters and downspouts. They work in conjunction with natural sunlight and a building’s own heat dissipation. When natural thawing occurs, the cables create a channel that allows water to flow off the roof and through gutters and downspouts. They are easy to install for years of trouble-free operation.