Heated Driveway News

Prudent Thinking, Prudent Spending

How many of us plow out of the other side of winter saying to ourselves, “I think I’ll move to Florida?” After the back breaking, agonizing work of shoveling snow and clearing driveways and countless sidewalks, the Sunshine State with its charming flower, the Orange Blossom, seems like a blissful way to survive next year’s snowy months. Sadly, most of us don’t have the luxury of picking up our lives and shifting to greener, sunnier pastures where orange blossoms, well, blossom. Winter is almost behind us this year and the memory of that hard work is still fresh in our minds. Right now is the most prudent time to start thinking about installing a heated driveway snow melting system.

As the final signs of winter move behind us for another year, many products go on sale in the hope of clearing shelves for brighter, cheerier summer products. Snow shovels and sleds are the clearance “item of the week” for many hardware stores as they hope to make room for plastic swimming pools and sand toys. The same can be said for radiant heated driveways. Installing a heated driveway during the off season can always save you money. It’s like rushing out to buy Christmas lights for your house, the day AFTER Christmas. There is always a good deal to be found.

What type of driveway heating is right for you? The answer is, “it depends.” The bottom line is that installing radiant heated driveways is easier than ever and very affordable, making it a prudent way to spend in this tight economy. Heated driveways can be installed in new construction or under existing driveways and sidewalks, so maybe you won’t have to move to Florida after all. Consider the following:

There are two types of radiant heat for your driveway, electronic and hydronic. Both systems require heating elements be installed beneath the surface of your driveway. Electric driveway heating systems utilize durable long-line heating cables while hydronic systems generate heated water which is pumped through plastic tubing. Electric driveway heating systems are generally cheaper and easier to install than hydronic systems. Electric heating is ideal for home use, while hydronic is better suited for larger heating projects in excess of 4000 square feet.

Heated driveway systems are highly customizable and can be installed in any phase and configuration of home construction. It doesn’t matter if you plan on concrete, asphalt, or brick, a heated driveway system uses radiant heat to warm the surface you choose. As a plus, if you live in an existing dwelling where the driveways and sidewalks are already in place, radiant heated driveways can easily be installed. Using concrete saw-cut technology, appropriately measured grooves are cut into the concrete (or asphalt). Once the grooves have been cut, radiant heating cable is laid into the grooves, sealed using an epoxy topcoat and driveway heating becomes a reality. Weather is rarely a factor for installation, so there are few limitations on the timing of placing a driveway snow melting system. A side note to be aware of is that it is recommended that all electrical connections to the master control box be handled by a qualified electrician.

The cost to install a heated driveway is minimal compared to the long term benefits. Electric snow melting systems have three basic components: the heating element, the controller, and the snow sensor. Thanks to DMC-100 master control unit, which was recently developed for use by Warmzone, the snowmelt system features fully automated operation and manual override capability, as well as energy-efficient driveway heating. An outdoor snow sensor is connected to the master control unit and is programmed to automatically activate the radiant driveway heating cable when the sensor plate detects precipitation and temperatures are below 38 degrees Fahrenheit. With this smart technology you never have to worry about running the system needlessly, thereby eliminating energy waste and saving you from high operational costs.

A home that boasts the convenience of a heated driveway system has added property value. While the initial monetary outlay exists to install a snow melting system, installing radiant driveway heat ends up being a smart investment in the long run as you reap the property value benefits and the added convenience of never buying and replacing snow shovels, blowers, ice melt, ice picks, salt and other harsh chemicals.

(Continued. See Part II )

Choosing Eco-friendly Snow and Ice Removal

Now that Earth Day has come and gone, many of us are resolved to find new, meaningful ways to contribute to our environment, including driveway heating . Not only do radiant heated driveways take the shovel, and the responsibility of snow removal out of your hands; they are darn good for the environment.

Electric heated driveways are unobtrusive snow removal systems and virtually maintenance free. Embedded within concrete, asphalt, or placed beneath paver stones, radiant heated cables comprising these systems are activated by a snow sensor when conditions warrant, providing a clean, silent, efficient, eco-friendly alternative to traditional snow and ice removal methods.

Unlike driveway heating, using harsh snowmelt chemicals can really take a toll on your driveway and the surrounding landscape, killing grass and other foliage. Salt and chemicals also tend to find their way into unsuspecting dog paws, and greedily gnaw through our leather boots and shoes. With the spring thaw, most of these chemicals also make their way into our groundwater system, contaminating our drinking supply.

Snow blowers are just as destructive. They scrape asphalt, tear up yards and spew smoke from incredibly loud gasoline-powered engines. Unlike eco-friendly electric heated driveways, which draw on a renewable energy source, these fossil fuel burning machines emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere as you work. They also make enough noise to wake the dead, as I’ve discovered with my neighbor, who is both a proud snow blower owner and early riser!

While more traditional methods of snow removal can damage your driveway, your yard, and the environment, installing an electric heated driveway will boost your property value without destroying your investment. Yet the biggest incentive (for me, at least) is the time and effort I’ll save with a fully automated snow removal system. I’d rather start my day relaxing with a nice cup of joe, watching the snow fall while my neighbors are outside pushing snow around!

When it comes down to choosing the right snow removal solution, you might not associate environmentalism with a radiant heated driveway. But considering just how *cost and energy efficient heated driveways are, living a greener life has never been easier.

*The cost for a 500-square-foot heated driveway to operate continuously for 5 hours is approximately $7.50.

Clearing Your Driveway in Your Sleep

Remember when you used to have to get a shovel and go outside and shovel snow and ice? Remember when you used to have to run taxi service for your neighbor when he was stuck in the driveway? Why not say “goodbye” to those days and start enjoying the benefits of an automated driveway snow melting system?

Electric heated driveways have been around for a while now. What you may not have known is how easy they are to install and maintain. These snow melting systems are about as convenient as one could ever hope. A snow sensor monitors weather conditions and activates the system only when needed. How much easier could it be to watch the snow instantly melt as hits lands on the driveway? (Was it Sylvester the cat who used to say “simultaneously even?” I’m getting fuzzy on my cartoon characters nowadays. Saturdays just haven’t been the same for many years now. I digress.)

Heated driveway systems consist of heat cable installed underneath the finish surface. The automated sensor signals the snowmelt system's control unit, which then activates the system. The heat cable generates heat that radiates throughout the driveway surface (concrete, asphalt, tile or brick pavers, etc.), so the driveway is warm when the first snowflake hits; thus, melting the snow even while you sleep. It doesn't get much better than this! I like the idea of my driveway being cleared while I sleep – or perhaps I just like the idea of me being asleep. Regardless, driveway snow melting systems is an idea whose time has definitely come.

Radiant Snow Melting Systems Keep Snow at Bay

Radiant snow melting systems are a muscle-saving way to put the NO in snow. It happens every time the snow flies at many homes across the country; a small curse is heard pointed in the direction of the gloomy skies each time a snow flake lands its mark on an unheated driveway. Homeowners watch in dismay as the skies open up and dump white, harmless looking bits of snow crystals on their sidewalks and driveways. Shovels and snow blowers are taxed and so are backs, necks, and arms. Sure, it can be beautiful, but many people just want a way to say “no thanks” to snowy days and back-breaking efforts to clear their property.

Heated driveways are in vogue now and with great reason. Installing a driveway snow melting system saves time and money for every homeowner smart enough to add it to their property. Home values increase, winter blues decrease, and screaming body parts silence in homes that offer the perk of an automated radiant snow melting system.

Smart and savvy builders and home buyers are including snow melting systems in many large scale new construction projects as well as single dwellings. A heated driveway can be installed after construction as well, so the ease and affordable comfort is not merely limited to new construction.

If you live in an unforgiving climate where Mother Nature rules with white, then perhaps a snow melting system might help make the winters a bit more bearable and allow you to finally put the NO in snow!

Radiant Heated Driveways - The Driveway of the Future

When shopping for a home, how many of us have thought of looking for a house with a radiant heated driveway installed? Okay, it might not be the first thing you think of when organizing your criteria for a new home, but maybe it should make the list somewhere. Heated driveways are a convenience that won’t go unnoticed for sure. Imagine getting up in the morning and seeing all the new fallen snow and then seeing your driveway totally clear of snow and ice.

Radiant driveway snow melting systems generally use a form of electric radiant heat. They utilize an electric heat cable that is laid in the asphalt or concrete, under the finish surface. Sensors installed near the surface detect when the snowmelt system is needed and current is applied to the heat cable to warm the driveway and melt the snow. How much easier could it get than that? It’s a modern convenience that is a sign of the times. And because these systems run on electricity, they are environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for corrosive salt and harmful snowmelt chemicals, which can damage nearby plants and grass.

Heated driveways will only get more popular as more people become aware of their affordability and reliable performance. No more concerns about whether snow and ice will prevent you from getting up your driveway when you get home. Just don’t forget you loaned your snow blower to your neighbor. He’s probably not going to remind you, especially after he notices your snow-free, heated driveway.

Keeping Your Driveway Clear of Snow and Ice

I just ventured in from the frozen outdoors. The roads are packed with ice and the trees are laden with frost. My driveway has a rather steep incline, but good traction usually does the trick and allows me to pull up to my home. However, However, ascending my driveway's slope during winter time can often be an adventure. Truth is, my driveway is an ideal candidate for an electric heated driveway snow melting system.

Driveway snowmelt systems are the ticket during winter in any areas that regularly see the icy stuff. Every time you drive over snow you pack it further into dense, slippery ice. How nice would it be to not have that concern? With a radiant heated driveway snowmelt system there is one less thing to have to worry about when you are getting ready to head out in the morning (or pull up to your house in the evening). When morning hits, you get up and look out to discover that it snowed again. Then you look at the driveway and it is as clean as if it were July. You get in your car and drive off. Driveway snow melting has provided us with an easy life. It really wasn’t that long ago when you would have had to break out the snow shovel to clear the way.

A heated driveway system is a big asset in many areas and it isn’t that difficult to install. It will pay for itself in time savings over and over, as well as increase the value of your home. It can even be installed over existing asphalt driveways. Danfoss GX heat cable comes pre-spaced in mats that can be conveniently rolled out over the surface of the driveway. Hot asphalt can be applied directly over the top and vwalah, your icy worries are a thing of the past. Take a look into the many forms of electric radiant heat. You will find systems for virtually every application, both interior and exterior, that can make your life much easier and more comfortable.

In an Economic Downturn Purchases Have to Count

Economic downturns such as the one we find ourselves elbow deep in, dictate wiser, well-researched and more cost-effective purchases. The weak dollar and tighter credit allowances no longer allow the penny-pinching consumer the luxury of frivolous spending sprees. Each purchase needs to count and provide an investment for the future.

An inexpensive investment and smart way to add value to your home is by installing a heated driveway. Once installed, an automated snow melting system offers low operation costs in the long run, helping you lower your bottom line on home expenses. A heated driveway with an area of 300 square feet operates for under 50-cents per continuous hour of operation. The snow melting system generally only takes a few hours to clear your driveway when a storm hits, and automatically shuts off when it is no longer needed.

Driveway heating is an investment that has proven results. Not only does it allow you some free time with your family, it is a proven way to protect the life of your driveway by protecting it from harsh chemicals and salt used in traditional snow removal. One of the best features is the rugged, technologically advanced snow sensor, which triggers the radiant heating system only when needed, making driveway heating a fully automated process, so you can stay inside where it’s warm and count the dollars you are saving as you watch the snow fall. Or instead of shoveling for hours after a Nor’ Easter or powerful lake effect storm you can spend time relaxing inside with your family.

The peace of mind that comes with making a smart purchase is invaluable right now. We are all looking for ways to ride out this stormy economic climate, still enjoy some creature comforts, and invest in wise products, such as a heated driveway, that will enable our future to look bright.

Spoil Yourself with a Heated Driveway

Now would be the best time of year to show off for your neighbors. While they are fighting that hard packed snow and ice, you are driving in and out of your “snow-free driveway” with ease because you installed a heated driveway system. Driveway snow melting isn’t all that new, but these driveway heating systems have never been so easy or convenient to install. A heated driveway efficiently utilizes radiant heat, the same type of systems that can be installed to heat floors.

A radiant heated driveway is usually best achieved by installing the industry-leading Danfoss GX cable and embedding a small amount of asphalt or concrete over the top. An automated sensor maintains a clear driveway by turning on only when it senses temperatures and precipitation conditions when snow could be present. It will be hard to not chuckle a little when you pull in your clean driveway and your neighbors are out shoveling snow. Try not to let them that smirk on your face. In harsh winter-weather climates, these radiant snowmelt systems have evolved from luxury to near-necessity. Radiant snow melting technology is a modern convenience that is very handy this time of year.

Driveway heating is an extension of electric radiant heating, which is becoming more and more common in homes as people learn about the advantages. The more you have experienced these systems, the more likely you are to have it in your next home.

Late For Work; Don’t Worry About Shoveling Your Driveway

There will never be an easy way to explain to the “boss” why you are late once again. Spilled oatmeal on the carpet, miss-matched socks, alarm clock malfunctioned, iron went caput, car wouldn’t start, shoveled a foot of snow off your driveway. All these countless excuses may still need to be repeated, save one. You can eliminate snow shoveling from your “shucks, sorry I’m late again BECAUSE” routine. Installing a heated driveway is now easier than ever. It’s also a cost-effective, proven home re-sell enhancing feature. Equipping a home with a technologically sound and savvy snow melting system has become a popular and affordable way to beat the snow. Look around at your neighbors’ homes. Chances are if they are lucky enough to have a heated driveway, they are never late for work, indoor soccer practice, or the ballet because of snow shoveling. Their driveways remain clear and clean of sticking snow all winter.

Driveway heating has come a long way. It’s no longer something seen in the affluent neighborhoods or touted by Tom and Katie as they yammer on about their ski chalet in Colorado. Heated driveways are now something your sister’s best friend just installed, your son’s basketball coach, your co-workers, next door neighbor or even your kid brother who you were sure was never going to own a home let alone increase its value with something as smart as a snow melting system. Get out of hot water with your boss. Pull out of your driveway on-time and relaxed as you calmly wave at your less fortunate neighbors sweating and shoveling out from last night’s doozie of a snow storm. Install a snow melting system right now and start enjoying the benefits of a stress-free heated driveway. 

Save Yourself Time Through Automated Snow Removal

One of the more unpleasant things about living in colder climates is going out in the morning and finding your car iced over. It doesn’t need to be that way. Snow melt systems are available utilizing electric radiant heat. Everyone on the street will envy the guy with the heated driveway.         

Snow melting systems have sensors that detect when it is needed. Once they switch on it doesn’t take long for the snow to disappear. Sure, a garage is nice but it's even nicer with a radiant heated driveway. Heated driveways utilize durable electric cable embedded in the concrete. Danfoss GX cable is the recommended heat cable, and one of the longest lasting, most reliable heat cable available. In addition to its affordability, it carries an industry-leading manufacturer warranty. Snow and ice melting has never been easier.

The heat from an electric radiant heated driveway up will also help to keep your vehicle from getting that difficult to remove crunchy ice build up. Not only will you not have to shovel snow and ice but you save time and reduce the chance of damaging your driveway or car by chiseling that ice off.

There probably isn’t much excuse these days when building a new home in snowy areas to not install a heated driveway. It's easy and affordable to install, not to mention it will increase the value of your property. Believe me, installing a radiant heated driveway is a decision you won't regret. What a convenience to walk out and jump in your car and take off. Be careful though, the street won’t have one.