How much for a heat trace circuit on a NB roof edge?

Heat trace (roof de-icing) circuit installation in New Brunswick typically runs $300–$600 for the dedicated circuit alone, plus the cost of the heat trace cable system itself — bringing most complete installations to $800–$2,000+ depending on roof size and complexity.

Heat trace is genuinely one of the smarter investments a New Brunswick homeowner can make. Ice dams are a serious problem here — our freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snowfall create ideal conditions for ice buildup along eaves, which can force water under shingles and cause significant interior damage. A properly installed roof edge heat trace system prevents that cycle before it starts.

What the Electrical Work Involves

The electrical portion requires a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit run from your panel to a weatherproof outlet or direct connection point, typically in the attic or soffit area. Most heat trace systems are self-regulating and plug into a standard 120V outlet, but they need their own circuit — you don't want heat trace sharing a circuit with other loads. GFCI protection is required by the Canadian Electrical Code for outdoor and wet-location circuits like this, and TSANB will verify this during inspection. If your panel is already near capacity, the electrician may need to add a breaker or evaluate load, which can add cost.

Realistic Cost Breakdown for NB

The electrician's portion (dedicated circuit, GFCI outlet, permit) runs roughly $300–$600. The heat trace cable itself is typically sold by the foot — budget $3–$8 per linear foot for self-regulating cable, and most homes need 50–150 feet for eaves and valleys. A thermostat/controller (recommended for energy savings) adds another $100–$300. Total installed cost for a typical NB home: $1,000–$2,500.

TSANB Permit Requirement

A new dedicated circuit requires a TSANB permit — your electrician pulls it before work begins, and a TSANB inspector will verify the installation. This is non-negotiable and protects your home insurance coverage. Any electrical work done without a permit can void your policy, which matters a lot if you're making an ice dam insurance claim.

Timing Matters in NB

Ideally, get this installed in late summer or fall before the ice season hits. Emergency installs in January when ice dams are already forming are possible, but you'll pay premium rates and scheduling is tight. NB electricians get busy fast once the first major ice storm hits.

New Brunswick Electrical can match you with a local licensed electrician for a free estimate on your heat trace circuit — just reach out and we'll connect you with someone in your area.