Ice damming

[djphilly]

I am having a serious ice damming problem. I have a flat roof (rubber coated), and everytime we get snow my ceiling leaks near the drain (located in one corner of the roof) when the snow begins to melt. This is because the drain pipe freezes up and no water can pass through. I live in philadelphia, and the temperature often fluctuates above and below the freezing point, so this process repeats itself.

I am having my roof resealed by a roofer, but not sure that will completely solve the problem, since water will still accumulate. Anyone have any suggestions? I heard about heating wires that you can put on the roof or in the drain pipe - anyone have experience with these?

djphilly

[mrcaptainbob]

Those heat tapes work really well. If you can access the outside of the pipe, wrap that around and cover with insulation. If not, drop an appropriate length down the inside of the pipe. Make sure the heat tape is well grounded and any extension cords used are rated outdoor.