When the Johnson family reached out to us in early November, they were dealing with a problem that many Chicago homeowners know all too well: year after year of ice dam damage to their beautiful 1890s Victorian in Lincoln Park.
The Challenge: Protecting a Historic Home
The Johnsons' three-story Victorian presented unique challenges. The home's original architectural details—including ornate trim and decorative gutters—needed to be preserved while still providing effective ice dam prevention.
We've spent over $25,000 in the past five years fixing water damage from ice dams. We love our home's character, but we were desperate for a solution that wouldn't compromise its historic look.
— Sarah Johnson, Homeowner
After a thorough inspection, our team developed a custom installation plan that would integrate the Heater Cap system while maintaining the home's aesthetic integrity.
The Solution: Custom Heater Cap Installation
Our three-day installation process began on November 15th. The team worked carefully around the home's original copper downspouts and decorative brackets, installing 187 linear feet of self-regulating heat cable integrated with our micro-mesh gutter guards.
- Day 1: Gutter assessment, cleaning, and preparation of mounting surfaces
- Day 2: Heat cable installation and electrical connection setup
- Day 3: Gutter guard integration, testing, and final inspection
The self-regulating technology in Heater Cap adjusts its heat output automatically. When temperatures drop below 38°F, the system activates. As it warms up, power consumption decreases—saving the Johnsons an estimated 40% on heating costs compared to traditional heat tape.
The Results: Tested by Chicago's First Major Storm
Less than two weeks after installation, Chicago received its first significant snowfall of the season—8 inches over two days, followed by a rapid freeze. The perfect recipe for ice dam formation.
But this time, the Johnsons' gutters kept flowing. While neighbors were climbing ladders to chip away ice, their Heater Cap system was quietly doing its job. Water flowed freely through the gutters and downspouts, directing it safely away from the foundation.
I couldn't believe it. For the first time in eight years, we had zero icicles hanging from our gutters. The system just works.
— Mike Johnson, Homeowner
Project Details
- Location: Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL
- Home Style: 1890s Victorian, 3 stories
- Linear Feet: 187 ft of gutter protection
- Installation Time: 3 days
- System: Turtle Shell Heater Cap with micro-mesh guards
Like all our installations, the Johnsons' system is covered by our Double Lifetime Warranty—protecting both materials and workmanship for as long as they own their home.
Is Your Chicago Home Ready for Winter?
If you're tired of dealing with ice dams, icicles, and water damage every winter, it might be time to consider a heated gutter solution. Our team serves the entire Chicagoland area, and we specialize in both modern and historic homes.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate. We'll assess your home's specific needs and provide a custom solution designed for Chicago's harsh winters.