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Location: Birmingham, UK
Project/Case: LG Arena Roof Heating System
Year: 2012
The NEC Group, owners of the LG Arena in Birmingham, needed to suspend additional audio and visual equipment from the arena roof. However, the roof structure lacked sufficient spare load capacity to safely accommodate the extra weight.
To avoid the high cost and disruption of structural reinforcement, the challenge was to free up load capacity by reducing the roof’s exposure to heavy snow accumulation. A safe, automatic, and energy-efficient snow melting solution was required to prevent build-up and keep the roof clear year-round.
Through our subsidiary Heatmat, Heatcom Group designed and installed an advanced roof heating system covering over 2,000 m² of roof surface.
The system used 12 km of UV-stable ice and snow melting cables fixed with proprietary mounting strips and adhesives compatible with the existing roof materials. The cables were arranged in zones to provide consistent heat distribution and allow for easy maintenance access.
A fully automated control system was installed, integrating temperature and moisture sensors that activate heating only when snow or ice is detected — ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
By eliminating the potential for heavy snow build-up, the system effectively increased the roof’s safe load capacity, enabling the NEC Group to suspend new lighting and sound systems without needing structural reinforcement.
Despite the large roof area, the system’s operating cost remained below £1,000 per year, even in harsh winters.
The system performed exceptionally well during testing and throughout winter. According to the client:
“The system was used intensely between the 22nd and 23rd of March (2013) during which time a substantial amount of snow fell. The system completely clears the roof without exception, and all drainage areas are cleared well and there is no problem relating to water run-off.”
The installation ensured a safe, snow-free roof and delivered substantial cost savings compared to traditional roof reinforcement.
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