June 11th, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
Installing a heated driveway when you build or re-pour a driveway is a great way to increase the value of your home, and make it more sellable. Even if you don’t want to activate the heated driveway, installing the components when you pour can still add value and allow a future owner to finish the project with minimal expense. Start by installing the bare necessities. A popular option we have with our driveway heating systems is to “rough-in” the basic components for the heated driveway. Roughing-in a snow melting system consists of installing only the materials needed at the time of pouring a new concrete driveway.
Components Needed for Rough-in:
1) Driveway Rough-in Kit - The “rough-in” kit contains a backplate, cold lead, and splices. The backplate is installed between studs on a wall and the control unit for the driveway heating system is mounted to the backplate. The cold lead is a non-hot wire that is used to run power from the control unit to the low-voltage heating cable. Splices are used to connect the cold lead to the cable.
2) Driveway Heating Element - A low-voltage cable is the electric heating element used for all driveway snow melting applications. The cable is secured to the remesh, spaced at 6 inches and raised with the remesh (using MeshUps, dobies or chairs) to be within 2 inches of the surface. The concrete is then poured over the cable. Preparing a driveway heating system
The materials for your “heat ready driveway” can be purchased for only a couple of dollars - or less - per square foot. You can then purchase the remainder of your snowmelt system at a later time. Even if you never activate your heated driveway, “roughing-in” a driveway heating system will increase the resale value of your home.
June 6th, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
Of the many outdoor heating systems available, heated driveways are quickly becoming the most popular. The best heated driveway systems are radiant heating systems, similar to indoor floor heating systems.
There are primarily two methods for such outdoor heating systems: electric and hydronic. Electric systems use a line-voltage cable, while hydronic systems generate hot water, then pump it through plastic PEX tubing. The heating elements are embedded in the surface and use resistant heating to heat the surrounding area. Most heated driveway systems incorporate an automatic sensor that detects inclement weather to activate the system.
Electric systems tend to be more efficient, require less maintenance, and heat surfaces quicker. Hydronic systems are usually slightly more expensive to purchase and install, but the operational costs can be lower depending on the local fuel rates. Both outdoor heating systems have their advantages, however, the electric systems are gaining a lot of interest due to their price, ease of installation, and threatening future of the cost of fuel.
Some of the obvious benefits to outdoor heating systems are, of course, not having to shovel your driveway again, avoiding injury due to slippery surfaces, and having the confidence that your driveway will be cleared when you need to use it.
Heated Driveway Tip: Other notable benefits include adding value to your home, preserving the life of your driveway, and avoiding damage to bordering landscape with harmful salts and chemicals.
May 30th, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
If you live in a climate that produces harsh winter conditions then you’re probably familiar with shoveling snow. But what if there was a product available that made it possible for you to never shovel snow again? If you’re interested in just such an option, we’ve got a product for you, and I’m sure your back would thank you.
Heated driveway systems in concrete, asphalt, and under pavers was thought to be a luxury that most people couldn’t afford. Now, heating driveways, walkways or even parking areas is becoming common for many residences and businesses. If you live in a cold region that requires snow removal you should consider an automated snow melting system before you begin construction to assure yourself the best design and performance. Adding a heated driveway to your home or business will add safety and value to your property. So, save yourself a lot of time, and trips to the chiropractor by checking out the outdoor heating systems available at warmzone.com.
May 23rd, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
Although it may be spring, it’s the perfect time to plan and install your heated driveway. If you live in a climate that produces harsh winter conditions then you’re probably familiar with shoveling snow. But what if there was a product available that made it possible for you to never shovel snow again? If you’re interested in just such an option, there is a great product you should know about.
Heated driveway systems installed in concrete, asphalt, and under pavers was thought to be a luxury that most people couldn’t afford. Now, heating driveways, walkways or even parking areas is becoming common for many residences and businesses. If you live in a cold region that requires snow removal you should consider an automated snow melting system before you begin construction to assure yourself the best design and performance. Adding a heated driveway to your home or business will add safety and value to your property. So, save yourself a lot of time, and trips to the chiropractor by checking out the heated driveways available at warmzone.com.
May 16th, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
Outdoor heated driveway systems in concrete, asphalt and under pavers was thought to be a luxury most people couldn’t afford. Now, heating driveways, walkways or even parking areas is becoming common for many residences and businesses. If you live in a cold region that requires snow removal you should consider a automated snow melting system before you begin construction to assure yourself the best design and performance. Adding a heated driveway to your home or business will add safety and value to your property.
Not only can roof deicing and snow melting products protect your home and family, but they can also save you time and money as well. New technology makes it easy to switch these outdoor heating systems on and off according to the weather. This new technology makes these types of heating systems cost effective, and can also save you a few visits to the chiropractor’s office this winter.
May 9th, 2008 by Stacey Barrus
Even if you don’t get a lot of snow in your area, just ice, you still have a lot of preparation to do for wintry weather: covering the AC units, buying ice-melt, or buying a new ice scrapers for car windshields. However, with the new outdoor heating system available that can automatically melt snow and ice from sidewalks and driveways, you won’t be as busy with winter preparations and will have a lot more family time.
Outdoor snow melting systems in concrete, asphalt and under pavers was thought to be a luxury most people couldn’t afford. Now, heating driveways, walkways or even parking areas is becoming common for many residences and businesses. If you live in a cold region that requires snow removal you should consider a automated snow melting system before you begin construction to assure yourself the best design and performance.
Not only is an outdoor heating system convenient, but it’s inexpensive as well. By the time I account for the ice melt I won’t buy, the time I won’t spend, and the money saved on trips to the chiropractor after shoveling snow, I should have the outdoor heating system paid off in a winter or two.
Heated Driveway Tip: Adding a heated driveway to your home or business will add safety and value to your property.