What are heated driveways? The obvious answer is, “a driveway that heats up,” but what actually heats up the driveway? The best heating systems for driveways are radiant heating systems, similar to indoor underfloor heating systems. There are mainly two methods for heating, electric and hydronic. Electrical systems use a line voltage cord, while hydronic systems generate hot water and then pump it through PEX plastic pipes. The heating elements are built into the surface and use resistive heating to heat the surrounding area. Most systems incorporate an automatic sensor that detects inclement weather to activate the system. Electrical systems tend to be more efficient, require less maintenance, and heat surfaces faster. Hydronic systems are typically a bit more expensive to purchase and install, but may be lower in performance depending on local fuel rates. Both systems have their advantages, however electric systems are gaining a lot of interest due to their price, ease of installation and threatening future fuel cost.
Why install a driveway heating system? Some of the obvious benefits are of course not having to shovel your driveway again, avoiding injuries from slippery surfaces, and having the confidence that your driveway will be clear when you need to use it. Other notable benefits include; adding value to your home, preserving the life of your driveway, and preventing damage to the surrounding landscape from harmful salts and chemicals.
Where and when can a system be installed? Driveway heating systems can be installed almost anywhere, in almost any medium (including concrete, asphalt, under pavers, etc.), and almost any time of year (depending on the medium). The most popular and ideal time to install a system is during new construction. However, weather permitting, there are no limitations on installing a de-icing system.
How do the systems work? Snow melt systems are made up of three main elements: the heating element, the controller, and the activation device. The heating element can be an electrical resistance wire or a PEX hot water pipe. These heating elements can be installed in almost any medium. The easiest application for installation is under brick or stone pavers and into new concrete. Asphalt can also be used, but installation methods require more care and labor to avoid harmful contact with the cable due to asphalt’s temperature and abrasive nature during the paving process. These systems are controlled by a wall mounted control box for electrical systems or a small mechanical room to house a boiler, pump, manifold, etc. for hydronic systems. Both types of systems use manual and/or automatic activation devices. Automatic sensors available include air-mounted or pavement-mounted snow breakers. These sensors activate the system when moisture is present and the temperature is below approximately 38 degrees. Most systems also include a manual timer to preheat an area before a major storm to slow snow and ice buildup.
Who installs them and who sells them? Electric de-icing systems are fairly easy to install, and any experienced do-it-yourselfer, contractor, or electrician would be a candidate for installing a system. There are several providers of driveway heating systems, however Warmzone, Inc., is a dedicated source to match your project with the best value solution. Warmzone, Inc. is the non-biased advocate for consumers and contractors. They will point out the obvious benefits and challenges of any project and sell you a system that makes sense. Warmzone has experience in residential and commercial projects. Although they don’t install these systems, Warmzone has a growing network of contacts across the country who are ready and willing to help wherever possible. Visit them online at www.warmzone.com, or call them toll free at 1-888-488-WARM.
