Heated Driveways - What, When, Where, Why, and How

What are Heated Driveways?

The obvious answer is "a driveway that is heated." But what actually heats the driveway? The best heated driveway systems are electric radiant heating systems, which are similar to indoor floor heating systems. There are primarily two methods for heating driveways (and floors): electric and hydronic. Electric snowmelt systems use heat cable, while hydronic systems generate hot water, then pump it through plastic PEX tubing. The heating elements are embedded under the surface and use radiant heating to heat the surrounding area.

Most heated driveway systems incorporate an automatic sensor that detects inclement weather to activate the system. Electric radiant heated driveway 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 systems have their advantages; however, the electric systems are gaining popularity due to their price, ease of installation, and the uncertain future of fossil fuel costs.

Why Install a Driveway Heating System?

Some of the obvious benefits of a radiant driveway heating system 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, regardless of the weather conditions. Other notable benefits include adding value to your home, preserving the life of your driveway, and avoiding damage to the bordering landscape from harmful salts and chemicals.

Where and when can you Install a Radiant Heated Snowmelt System?

A radiant heated driveway or snowmelt system can be installed in almost any medium (including concrete, asphalt, under pavers, etc.), in just about location, and nearly at anytime of the year (depending on the medium). The most popular and ideal time to install a snowmelt system is during new construction. However, with weather permitting, there are no limitations as to when a snowmelt system can be installed. In addition to the many custom options available, you can also install a radiant snow melting system in an existing driveway. Asphalt driveways are particularly easy to retrofit with a radiant heat system.

How do Heated Driveways Work?

Automated driveway snow melting systems are composed of three main items: the heating element, the controller, and the activation device. The heating element can be either an electric resistance cable or PEX hot water tubing (for hydronic systems). These heating elements can be installed in almost any medium. The simplest application for installation is under brick or stone pavers and in new pour concrete. Asphalt can also be used, but the installation methods call for more care and labor to avoid injurious contact to the cable because of the asphalt's temperature and abrasive nature during the paving process. Warmzone ClearZone heat cable is the premier snow melting cable, and the only heat cable capable of withstanding the extreme temperatures of fresh asphalt installation.

Heated driveway systems are controlled by either a wall-mounted control box for electric 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. Available automatic sensors include aerial-mounted or pavement-mounted snow switches. These sensors activate the system when there is moisture present and the temperature is below a set point (usually 39 degrees). Most systems also include a manual timer to preheat an area before a large storm to curb snow and ice accumulation.

Who Installs Radiant Heated Driveways?

Electric snowmelt systems are fairly easy to install, and any experienced "do-it-yourselfer", contractor, or electrician would be a candidate for installing a system. Warmzone provides a list of authorized installers, allowing you to find a qualified professional in your area. Search for a radiant heat installer. 

Who Sells Heated Driveways and Snow Melting Products?

Eliminate manual snow removal by installing a radiant heated driveway.

There are several vendors of driveway heating systems; however, Warmzone differentiates itself by offering a variety of radiant heat solutions through several different manufactures. Because Warmzone is not limited to offering one brand or type of driveway heating solution, you can be assured of receiving unbiased information and a system that is truly best for your particular situation. As an established, dedicated source for matching your project to the best valued solution, Warmzone is the number one consumer and contractor advocate without bias towards any one system. As the trusted resource for radiant heat solutions, Warmzone will point out the obvious benefits and challenges for your project and recommend a system that makes sense. Warmzone has extensive experience with both residential heated driveway and roof deicing systems as well as large commercial projects. 

For more information on snow melting systems and driveway heating, an excellent series of radiant heat articles covering heated driveway installation can be found in the Warmzone Pressroom or on www.drivewayheating.com.