How to Melt Ice on Slate

Inspect the Attic and Seal Any Leaks

• 1

  Seal gaps around metal chimneys with caulking that's heat-resistant to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Block gaps between joists and brick chimneys with sheet metal and caulk the seams.

• 2

  Find and seal gaps along wall-ceiling intersections. If the top plates or electrical boxes are not flush against drywall, caulk the gaps. For larger gaps, lay polyethylene under ceiling insulation.

• 3

  Use caulking and weatherstripping to seal gaps where partition walls meet exterior walls. Keep the attic at the lowest possible temperature by leaving ventilation space under the roof sheathing.

Hang Deicing Socks

• 4

  Make deicing socks using pantyhose or purchase them at a hardware store. Fill them with deicing material and tie the ends closed. You'll need enough deicing socks to hang one every 1.5 feet across the width of the eave.

• 5

  Figure the necessary number of socks by measuring the length of the eave in feet and dividing by 1.5. The socks will create runoff channels for the melting snow, preventing additional buildup of ice. Over time, the channels of running water will erode the rest of the ice.

• 6

  Set up a system of ropes across the roof to attach deicing socks and pull them into position. If you have recessed lighting in the ceiling of your home, you may be unable to prevent warming of the attic or the formation of ice dams. If you'll leave your deicing socks in place all winter, you'll need to properly secure it.

• 7

  Estimate the distance to traverse the entire roof, up one side and down the other. You'll need an additional 16 feet to secure each rope to a hook placed under the eave. Record the length and cut one piece of cord equal to it. Attach a heavy nut to one end of the cord.

• 8

  Have a friend stand on the other side of the house. Holding one end tightly, throw the other end of the cord (with the nut attached) over the roof. It will be the other person's job to retrieve the cord on the other side and help you pull the cord back and forth between you to determine the exact length your ropes need to be.

• 9

  Cut one piece of rope for each deicing sock. You can send rope back and forth over the roof in bundles of three.

• 10

  Attach the first bundle to the end of the cord on your side of the house. Have the other person pull the cord with the first bundle up and over the roof and untie the bundle.

• 11

  Leave two ropes in place and have the other person attach another bundle to the third rope. Now pull that bundle toward you. Repeat this process until the sufficient number of ropes crosses the roof.

• 12

  Tie the socks to each rope and have the other person help you move them into the correct position.

• 13

  Secure the ropes to hooks under the eaves.