Diamond Controls was appointed to design, supply, install and commission a bespoke roof and gutter trace heating system at Crown Street Library. The project called for a dependable, low-maintenance solution capable of protecting the building throughout harsh winter conditions.
By delivering a carefully tailored system aligned with the client’s operational and safety requirements, the project was completed successfully and met all performance expectations.
Project Brief
The primary objective was to prevent ice and snow build-up within roof gutters, allowing meltwater to drain freely during freezing weather. This was essential to reduce the risk of blockages, ice dams and associated safety hazards, while ensuring uninterrupted drainage throughout the winter months.
The client also required a system that would:
- Operate automatically with minimal manual input
- Optimise energy efficiency through intelligent control
- Comply fully with current safety standards
- Deliver long-term reliability, backed by comprehensive documentation and warranty support
To meet these requirements, a self-regulating trace heating solution from Chemelex Raychem was specified, paired with an intelligent environmental control panel to ensure responsive and efficient operation.
The Solution
Rather than heating the entire roof surface, Diamond Controls engineered a focused gutter trace heating system designed specifically to maintain clear drainage paths. This targeted approach provided an effective and economical solution without unnecessary energy consumption.
Heating cables were installed within the gutter runs, extending 300mm up each roof slope, with two additional runs positioned in the central gulley. This configuration ensured that meltwater generated from snow and ice was guided safely into the downpipes and away from the building
To preserve the roof structure, all heating cables were secured using aluminium hold-down clips bonded with specialist adhesive. This avoided any roof penetration while providing a robust and durable fixing method suitable for long-term exposure.
Power distribution, system control and monitoring were managed through a multi-circuit roof and gutter control panel incorporating both air temperature and moisture sensors. The intelligent control logic ensures the system only activates when freezing conditions and moisture are present, delivering protection exactly when required while minimising energy usage.
Products Overview:
Chemelex RAYCHEM IceStop self-regulating trace heating cable is used for roof and gutter de-icing and is compatible with all standard gutter and downpipe materials. The specified modified polyolefin outer jacket provides a cost-effective solution while meeting the environmental requirements of the site.
The cables were fixed in place using Chemelex GMK-RC roof clip bracket kits, specifically designed to securely attach IceStop heating cables to roofs and gutters for snow and ice-melting applications. The clips were bonded with Raychem GM-Seal-02 adhesive, ensuring a strong, secure attachment without the need for roof penetrations.
The RayClic-CE-02 single power connection from Raychem Chemelex is a simple, fast, and reliable connection device developed specifically for RAYCHEM XL-Trace LSZH, FS-A-2X, FS-B-2X, GM-2X, and HWAT self-regulating heating cables. The easy-to-install RayClic system significantly reduces installation time, helping to lower the overall installed cost of the heating cable system.
Servicing & Ongoing Maintenance
Diamond Controls provides ongoing support through its dedicated servicing and maintenance team, carrying out manufacturer-approved inspections to ensure continued system reliability.
Annual maintenance includes a full system condition audit and thermal imaging survey, allowing early identification of any factors that could impact performance and ensuring the system continues to operate as designed.
If you are experiencing ice or snow issues on your roof, or would like expert advice on trace heating solutions, please contact Diamond Controls at sales@diamondcontrols.co.uk
