Articles

Heavy Snow Storms Challenge Boston City Snow Removal Services

Snow removal in Boston is serious business. During Boston’s record setting winter of 2014-2015, when the city received 108.6 inches of snow, residents worked overtime to keep their driveways and sidewalks clear of the white stuff. Boston city personnel and snowplows were pushed to their limits during some of the more significant storms. And while Boston city can prepare their trucks and employees for Mother Nature’s next onslaught, is there anything homeowners can do to get a leg up on the harsh New England winters?

The answer is “yes”. Many home and business owners in the Boston area are turning to radiant heat. In addition to eliminating the need for manual snow removal, automated snow melting systems enhance safety for pedestrians entering and exiting businesses in the Boston area.

Parked cars in Boston covered with snow after heavy snow storm.
Boston city workers and snow plows had their hands full after record breaking snowfall.

Warmzone snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The system includes an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When temperatures are below a set point – typically 39 degrees Fahrenheit – it signals the controller which sends power to the heat cable.

As an industry leader, Warmzone snow melting systems feature trusted heat cable that is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats that can be rolled out for easy installation. The electric radiant heating mats are laid out and secured, and then the medium (concrete, pavers, or asphalt) is applied directly over the cable. (To view snow melting system installation tips, visit the Installing Snow Melting Systems web page.)

The proven ClearZone snow melting system is commonly installed in both commercial and residential applications. From large heated driveways and parking areas to custom sized walkways, ramps and loading docks, ClearZone electric snowmelt systems are versatile and can be easily customized.

Warmzone’s fully automated system includes the embedded heat cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These electric systems are also maintenance free and relatively easy to install.

In addition to providing the highest quality radiant heating products, Warmzone also offers unmatched customer services. Each system is professionally designed, so you’ll know the exact layout and materials, proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and system performance expectations before one foot of heat cable is installed.

Warmzone also includes free installation support services. Our expert staff is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions during the installation, he/she can speak with one of our installation experts to resolve any issues. Free installation training is also available. When it comes to customer service, you’ll find that Warmzone is second to none.

Contact Warmzone today and learn more about the radiant heating options that are available. In addition to offering heated driveways and snow melting systems. Warmzone also offers premier roof deicing and floor heating systems. Call 888.488.9276 to learn more.

HOTNEWS

Warmzone Roof Deicing Panels

Prevent Ice Dams from Forming

As we look forward to a warm summer, many residents in the north east are still reeling from the costly effects of record snowfall. Ice dams continue to be winter’s biggest culprit when it comes to roof damage.

Warm air slowly escapes from the home and into the attic where it warms the roof, causing snow to melt. As the runoff trickles down the roof, it reaches the eaves. Because the eaves extend out over the edges of the house, there is no warm air from the attic below. In the evening, the runoff will reach the cold eaves and refreeze. There, the ice continues to build up as more snow melts. The wall of ice causes water to build up behind it, refreezing every time the temperature dips below 32°Fahrenheit.

When the water pools up behind these ice dams, it can seep into tiny cracks in the roofing material where it refreezes and expands. This repeated process can eventually compromise the structure. Water can slowly work its way into the attic and then drip through the ceiling or down walls. Oftentimes the homeowner is not aware of any problem until significant water damage has occurred.

Heat roof edges with aluminum heated panels

Warmzone offers an ideal way to protect homes and businesses from water damage. RoofHeat panels feature attractive aluminum panels with self-regulating heat cable. The panels are installed long the roof edge between the waterproof membrane and the shingle. The roof heating panels are supplied in 4-foot lengths and can be cut to length on site. Self-regulating heat cable is channeled through the panel, creating an effective roof deicing system that efficiently warms the roof edges help prevent ice dams from forming. The aluminum panels can also be installed in roof valleys to facilitate runoff.

Features of the RoofHeat Panels Include:

  • Panels are made of aluminum
  • Deicing cables are inserted into the cable channel
  • Systems feature self-regulating heat cable
  • Shingles are installed on top of the panel, only the cable channel is visible
  • Panels can be painted to match the shingle color
  • Panels are 4-feet long and 6-inches wide with a cable channel
  • Panels that feature a slanted cable channel mount along the roof edge
  • Panels that feature a flat cable channel mount above the roof edge and along the inside of the valleys

Contact a Warmzone representative at 888.488.9276 for more information on our industry leading roof deicing solutions. There are many options available, and Warmzone will design a roof heating system that is unique to your specific roof heating needs. Call for more information or send us your project details for a free quote.

Pipe Trace Systems

Solutions for Industrial, Commercial and Residential Applications
As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone has earned its reputation as a trusted industry leader. Having designed systems that have been installed in large refineries, commercial facilities and custom residential applications, Warmzone’s expertise is a valuable asset to businesses or homeowners seeking a reliable pipe trace solution.

Image showing industrial pipes and valve with heat trace cable

Warmzone pipe trace systems can be installed for pipe freeze prevention as well as process temperature maintenance installations. The self-regulating heat cable is UL listed and approved for hazardous and non-hazardous applications. It can be used for plastic or metal pipe freeze protection and flow maintenance of pipes, tanks, valves.

The self-regulating characteristics of the heat cable means that it automatically varies its power output in response to pipe temperature changes. When the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases. This ensures energy-efficient operation. The cable will also not overheat or burnout – even when touching or overlapping.

Additionally, because of the self-regulating properties, a thermostat may not be necessary in some applications. With the optional outer jacket, the heating cable is resistant to watery and inorganic chemicals and protected against abrasion and impact damage. RHSR is suitable for use in explosion-hazardous areas up to a maximally admissible work-place temperature of +149° F (65° C).

Pipe trace system installed on industrial piping

Features Include:
Energy Efficient Operation – The self-regulating cable automatically varies its power output in response to pipe temperature changes. When the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases, ensuring energy-efficient operation. And the cable will not overheat or burnout – even when touching or overlapping.

Lower Cost – Less installation cost than steam tracing; less maintenance expense and less downtime.

Safe / Durable – Does not overheat or burn out, even when touching or overlapping.

Versatile – Suitable for use in non-hazardous, hazardous and corrosive environments.

Easy Installation – The cable can be cut to any length required on site (up to max circuit length) so there’s no wasted cable. And the termination, power connection, splice, tee, and end seal kit reduces installation time and requires no special skills or tools.

Heat Cable Options Include:
Tinned copper braid provides additional mechanical protection and a positive ground path

Flame retardant thermoplastic outer jacket protects against certain inorganic chemical solutions. It also protects against abrasion and impact damage.

The high-temperature Fluoropolymer outer jacket is used when there may be exposure to organic or corrosive solutions, or vapors may be present.

RHSR is UL listed, self-regulating parallel heating cable designed for a variety of industrial applications and environments, including hazardous and nonhazardous. It can be used for plastic or metal pipe freeze protection and flow maintenance of pipes, tanks, valves.

For more information about Warmzone’s products and services, call 888.488.9276. 

HOTNEWS

Pipe Trace Systems

Solutions for Industrial, Commercial and Residential Applications

As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone has earned its reputation as a trusted industry leader. Having designed systems that have been installed in large refineries, commercial facilities and custom residential applications, Warmzone’s expertise is a valuable asset to businesses or homeowners seeking a reliable pipe trace solution.

Heat cable on pipes for pipe tracing system

Warmzone pipe trace systems can be installed for pipe freeze prevention as well as process temperature maintenance installations. The self-regulating heat cable is UL listed and approved for hazardous and non-hazardous applications. It can be used for plastic or metal pipe freeze protection and flow maintenance of pipes, tanks, valves.

The self-regulating characteristics of the heat cable means that it automatically varies its power output in response to pipe temperature changes. When the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases. This ensures energy-efficient operation. The cable will also not overheat or burnout – even when touching or overlapping.

Additionally, because of the self-regulating properties, a thermostat may not be necessary in some applications. With the optional outer jacket, the heating cable is resistant to watery and inorganic chemicals and protected against abrasion and impact damage. RHSR is suitable for use in explosion-hazardous areas up to a maximally admissible work-place temperature of +149° F (65° C).

Features Include:

Energy Efficient Operation – The self-regulating cable automatically varies its power output in response to pipe temperature changes. When the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases, ensuring energy-efficient operation. And the cable will not overheat or burnout – even when touching or overlapping.

Lower Cost – Less installation cost than steam tracing; less maintenance expense and less downtime.

Pipe trace heating cable installed

Safe / Durable – Does not overheat or burn out, even when touching or overlapping.

Versatile – Suitable for use in non-hazardous, hazardous and corrosive environments.

Easy Installation – The cable can be cut to any length required on site (up to max circuit length) so there’s no wasted cable. And the termination, power connection, splice, tee, and end seal kit reduces installation time and requires no special skills or tools.

Heat Cable Options Include:

Tinned copper braid provides additional mechanical protection and a positive ground path

Flame retardant thermoplastic outer jacket protects against certain inorganic chemical solutions. It also protects against abrasion and impact damage.

The high-temperature Fluoropolymer outer jacket is used when there may be exposure to organic or corrosive solutions, or vapors may be present.

RHSR is UL listed, self-regulating parallel heating cable designed for a variety of industrial applications and environments, including hazardous and nonhazardous. It can be used for plastic or metal pipe freeze protection and flow maintenance of pipes, tanks, valves.

For more information about Warmzone’s products and services, call888.488.9276. 

Warmzone Roof Deicing Panels

Prevent Ice Dams from Forming

As we look forward to a warm summer, many residents in the north east are still reeling from the costly effects of record snowfall. Ice dams continue to be winter’s biggest culprit when it comes to roof damage.

Warm air slowly escapes from the home and into the attic where it warms the roof, causing snow to melt. As the runoff trickles down the roof, it reaches the eaves. Because the eaves extend out over the edges of the house, there is no warm air from the attic below. In the evening, the runoff will reach the cold eaves and refreeze. There, the ice continues to build up as more snow melts. The wall of ice causes water to build up behind it, refreezing every time the temperature dips below 32°Fahrenheit.

When the water pools up behind these ice dams, it can seep into tiny cracks in the roofing material where it refreezes and expands. This repeated process can eventually compromise the structure. Water can slowly work its way into the attic and then drip through the ceiling or down walls. Oftentimes the homeowner is not aware of any problem until significant water damage has occurred.

Warmzone offers an ideal way to protect homes and businesses from water damage. RoofHeat panels feature attractive aluminum panels with self-regulating heat cable. The panels are installed long the roof edge between the waterproof membrane and the shingle. The roof heating panels are supplied in 4-foot lengths and can be cut to length on site. Self-regulating heat cable is channeled through the panel, creating an effective roof deicing system that efficiently warms the roof edges help prevent ice dams from forming. The aluminum panels can also be installed in roof valleys to facilitate runoff.

Roof heating panel and heat cable

Features of the RoofHeat Panels Include:

  • Panels are made of aluminum
  • Deicing cables are inserted into the cable channel
  • Systems feature self-regulating heat cable
  • Shingles are installed on top of the panel, only the cable channel is visible
  • Panels can be painted to match the shingle color
  • Panels are 4-feet long and 6-inches wide with a cable channel
  • Panels that feature a slanted cable channel mount along the roof edge
  • Panels that feature a flat cable channel mount above the roof edge and along the inside
    of the valleys

Contact a Warmzone representative at 888.488.9276 for more information on our industry leading roof deicing solutions. There are many options available, and Warmzone will design a roof heating system that is unique to your specific roof heating needs. Call for more information or send us your project details for a free quote.

HOTNEWS

Brutal Winters Predicted

Scientists Predict Extreme Winters to Continue for the Next 30 Years

Climatologist John Casey, a former space shuttle engineer and NASA consultant, believes that we’re in for decades of unusually cold winters with greater snowfall. And Casey isn’t alone in his claims. Noted Russian astrophysicist Habibullo I. Abdussamatov has even gone so far as to argue that a new mini-ice age has just begun.

While Casey isn’t proclaiming the dawning of a new ice age, he does say that the facts indicate we are entering a new cold era. In a recent interview with Newsmax, Casey declared, “All you have to do is trust natural cycles and follow the facts, and that leads you to the inevitable conclusion that the sun controls the climate, and that a new cold era has begun.”

Radiant heated driveway in Colorado.

According to weather experts, a decline in solar activity has kick-started a major alteration in global climate that is projected to last at least 30 years. The prospect of frigid winters with record snowfall for the next several decades is not a pleasant one, but there are steps one can take to ease the pain of the upcoming “mega winters”.

Installing an automated snow melting system can ease the burden considerably, and even save you money in the long run. Warmzone offers affordable snow and ice melting options designed to keep your driveway, sidewalks, steps, and roofs clear of ice and snow – eliminating the need for manual snow removal. Every snowmelt system utilizes industry leading ClearZone heat cable that is easy to install and can be used in almost every type of snow melting application. Available on spools or in mats with tape backing for easy roll-out installation. (There is no mesh backing to impede concrete pours, making Warmzone solutions the optimum choice when it comes to installing radiant heat in concrete projects.) Self-regulating heat cable and RoofHeat STEP systems are used for roof deicing.

Why Invest in a Warmzone Snow Melting System? 

Fully Automated: You’ll get a fully automated snow removal solution that can sense and respond to snow before it can accumulate. ClearZone systems are activated by aerial- or pavement-mounted snow sensors that signal a small wall-mounted control unit to activate the system when needed. Each system also features a manual on/off switch to deal with snowdrifts or ice that has formed in shade.

Fast Response Time: Warmzone’s electric snow melting systems feature rapid response times, heating your driveway quickly and efficiently.

Enhances Safety: Radiant heat systems offer instant, consistent protection from slips and falls caused by icy steps, walkways and driveways.

Easy to Customize: Warmzone snow melting systems are easy to customize, so you can install a system that meets your specific snowmelt needs as well as your budget. Check out some of the snow melting options.

Energy Efficient: Minimal operation times and low operating costs will save you money and time over the life of your system.

Maintenance Free: These systems are virtually maintenance free, and backed by one of the best warranties in the business, for years of confident operation.

These are just some of the benefits you can expect from a radiant heated driveway. But what really makes Warmzone a great choice for radiant heat is the level of customer service you can expect. Contacting them gives you immediate access to radiant heat professionals with deep industry knowledge, knowledge they are eager to pass on to you at no cost.

When dealing with Warmzone, you’ll benefit from free installation support and in-house engineering and design services. You can get a schematic of your entire design system, plus a solid understanding of system requirements. Warmzone also offers free installation training and an abundance of information online. For a complete radiant heat solution, there’s no better partner than Warmzone. To find out more about Warmzone’s industry leading products and service, call 888.488.9276 today.

The Advantages of Warmzone Snow Melting Mats

The Tape Backing of ClearZone Mats Facilitates Proper Concrete Pours
Radiant heated driveways offer many benefits; however, a snow melting system is the sum of its parts and only as good as its design and installation. While there are many products available, Warmzone systems have proven to be the clear favorites among professional installers. These tried and tested solutions are carefully considered by Warmzone “resident” professionals with deep industry knowledge and experience. What does this mean for you? When dealing with Warmzone, you have a wide selection of affordable products that outperform the competition in all phases of installation and performance.

Consider a recent conversation between a Warmzone professional and an experienced installer. The installer preferred to avoid using electric snow melting mats based on an experience with a competitor’s heating mats years earlier. During the concrete installation, he noticed a significant issue. The mesh backing on the competitor’s mats impeded the concrete pour, which dramatically affected the quality of the concrete installation. When the concrete cannot flow through the mats, small air pockets can result, resulting in a weakened driveway that is susceptible to cracking and collapsing.

ClearZone snow melting heat cable in mat.

For the installer’s next radiant heat install, he opted for heat cable off the spool to ensure a proper concrete pour. As effective as the cable can be, cable off the spool requires more installation time, as the cable must be secured to the remesh with zip ties every 6 to 12 inches.

Shortly after that installation, the installer made a business-boosting discovery. After expressing his concerns with Warmzone, the installer learned that Warmzone snow melting mats offer significant advantages over similar products. Because of the unique construction of Warmzone snow melting mats, concrete maintains its integrity by enjoying an unimpeded pour. Not only is Warmzone heat cable the premier heating cable on the market, but the mats have become the solution of choice for concrete installers.

When it comes to performance and durability, the spacing between the runs of cable, tape and mesh backing truly matter. Warmzone’s ClearZone radiant snow melting mats utilize tape (without a mesh backing) to properly maintain their overall integrity during installation. Because ClearZone mats don’t include a mesh backing, concrete can flow through the mats during a fresh concrete pour, ensuring a strong driveway that will not buckle or cave over time, while enjoying superior performance characteristics.

The ClearZone snowmelt system is an industry leader, and the premier snow and ice melting solution for both commercial and residential applications. ClearZone electric snow melting cable is extremely durable and versatile, and can be used for a variety of residential and commercial applications, from fresh concrete pours, to installation under hot asphalt and stone pavers. On the spool, ClearZone cable allows for greater flexibility in terms of custom layouts, including hard-to-reach, intricate configurations for steps and sidewalks.

Whether you’re embarking on a radiant heat project yourself, or you’ve enlisted the assistance of a contractor yourself, you’d be wise to enlist the help of Warmzone. Warmzone provides professional system design/layout, so you know all the power requirements and technical specs before a foot of cable is installed. You’ll also have access to free installation support from an experienced pro. For more information about Warmzone’s products and services, call 888.488.9276. 

Articles

Chicago Snow Storm Breaks Record set in 1936

Protecting Roofs and Pedestrians

Chicago winters continue to set new records, both in terms of low temperatures and snowfall. The last two winters have been particularly harsh, as Chicago residents have experienced record low temperatures and record setting levels of snowfall. In February of 2015 Chicago’s O’Hare airport registered a brutal 8 degrees below zero as 20 miles-per-hour wind gusts pushed wind chill temperatures to 30 below, breaking a record set in 1936.

Coupled with record breaking snowfall, snow and ice quickly accumulates on Chicago’s residential and commercial rooftops, posing potential hazards to pedestrians below. Building owners in the “Windy City” are legally responsible not only for keeping their sidewalks clear of snow, but preventing snow and ice from falling from rooftops.

Panorama of Chicago during winter
The beautiful city of Chicago during winter time.

While some business rely on roof snow and ice dam removal services in the Chicago area, many homeowners and businesses are turning to reliable radiant heat. These automated systems remain “on standby” 24/7, so when a storm does hit, the system activates to prevent any snow and ice from accumulating.

While the safety of pedestrians is paramount for businesses in the city, ice dams pose the greatest threat to homeowners. As heat rises from the home, it can escape into the attic and warm the roof, causing water to trickle down to the roof’s edge. But the roof eaves are colder, and the water refreezes. As this process is repeated, water can build up behind the ice where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Warmzone roof de-icing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. The roof heating systems are easy to customize and install. Once installed, the roof de-icing and gutter trace systems operate only when conditions warrant, keeping heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and preventing ice dams from forming along roof edges.

In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof de-icing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout the Chicago area. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

Many home and business owners in Chicago are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof de-icing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options – with no obligation or sales pressure. Or visit Warmzone online. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available. Visit warmzone.com and learn more about radiant heating systems and why some systems (and services) are better than others when it comes to heating specific projects.

Articles

Roof Snow and Ice in Boston, Massachusetts

Residents in Boston are proud to live in one of the country’s great historical cities, but given its location, Boston is also home to some of the country’s harshest winter weather. As such, Bostonians are typically well prepared for the annual New England snowstorms. Yet, in recent years, even the most seasoned Boston residents have been caught off guard.

Snow accumulating on streets and roofs in Boston during blizzard
Snow accumulating on streets and roofs in Beacon Hill, Boston during a blizzard in 2016.

The record breaking snowfall during the winter of 2014-2015 pushed Boston’s snow removal services to the limit and frustrated drivers during a series of heavy storms. With snow totals of 108.6 inches, last year’s snowfall proved to be the most since record books started in 1872.

And with heavy snowfall comes additional hazards for residents. Many homeowners felt compelled to manually remove snow from their roofs while building owners in the city worked overtime to ensure that snow and ice buildup on their roofs didn’t break free and threaten pedestrians below. Although efforts were made to enhance the safety of Boston residents, some found themselves to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

In Cambridge, five individuals walking on a path between the Simoni Ice Skating Arena and sports playing fields were suddenly overwhelmed by snow that fell from the roof of the ice rink. One man was buried, but was eventually dug out from the snow without serious injury. This incident brings to light the unseen hazards of snowfall in large cities.

State law mandates that property owners not only clear their sidewalks for pedestrians, but also take reasonable steps to prevent snow and ice from falling onto pedestrians from roofs and other elevated structures. The ideal solution has proven to be the installation of an automated radiant roof de-icing system.

Roof heating systems are also beneficial for Boston homeowners. Easy to customize and install, roof de-icing and gutter trace systems can keep heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and prevent ice dams from forming along roof edges.

The repair costs from ice dams can be significant. As heat rises and warms the roof, water runs down to the roof’s edge. But the roof is colder at the overhang, and the water refreezes. As this process is repeated, ice and water can build up behind the dam where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Warmzone roof de-icing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof de-icing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout New England. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

Many home and business owners in Boston are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof de-icing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more – with no obligation or sales pressure – at 888.488.9276. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available. Visit warmzone.com and learn more about radiant heating systems and why some systems (and services) are better than others when it comes to heating specific projects.

HOTNEWS

The Future of Roof Deicing

Clear Roof Valleys and Edges faster with a RoofHeat STEP Roof Deicing System

After record snowfalls this year, a spring assessment of your roof may lead you to consider a radiant roof heating solution, particularly for your roof valleys and edges. Heating these trouble spots is a great way to prevent damage as a result of ice dams and seepage. With a razor thin element, superior heating capability and inherent flexibility, a low-voltage RoofHeat STEP roof deicing system is the ideal option for heating roof valleys and edges.

Warmzone roof deicing systems can eliminate costly ice dams, the number one source of roof damage. Because the eaves and roof edges do not have any heat warming the roof from below, they’re much colder and prone to ice buildup from snow melting higher on the roof. As snow up higher on the roof melts, the water freezes when it reaches the colder eaves, creating an ice dam that forces water to back up behind it. With nowhere to go, the water seeps through roof decking and refreezes again at night, expanding small cracks where the water eventually works its way down onto ceilings and walls, resulting in costly water damage and mold.

An Industry Leading Solution

The RoofHeat STEP roof deicing system is fast becoming the roof heating system of choice among professional roofers. Unlike other radiant heating options, the heating element used for this system is not a cable, but rather a thin polymer that can be nailed, stapled and cut on site, so it’s easy to work with and install. The self-regulating semi-conductive polymer heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage, and can be mounted under the shingles for discreet heating of roof valleys and edges.

Low-voltage roof deicing system being installed

Installing a roof deicing solution now can preserve and protect a new roof installation from snow and ice buildup for years to come. Besides saving you big bucks in the “improve, repair and replace” department, a RoofHeat STEP roof deicing system can save you the time and effort of having to manually remove snow and ice.

These fully automated systems feature an activation device/snow sensor that detects precipitation and temperature. When conditions warrant, the sensor signals the controller when then sends power to the heating element to heat your roof.

A RoofHeat STEP roof deicing system can keep roof valleys and edges clear and dry before, during and after a major snow event. The system also consists of a transformer that steps down high voltage to low voltage while controlling a specific section of the roof deicing system. During system operation, the transformers monitor power and output to the heating element to ensure safe, accurate and efficient performance.

To find out more about this industry-leading roof deicing system, call 888.488.9276 and speak to a Warmzone professional today.

Premier RoofHeat Gutter Trace Systems

Warmzone Self-regulating Heat Cable is the Ideal Solution for Heating Gutters and Downspouts
Finally spring has arrived, along with the drip, drip, drip of melting snow from the roof tops onto the pavement below. As meteorologists predict several more years of extreme winter weather, now may be the time to add a RoofHeat radiant gutter trace system to your list of home improvement projects this spring.

Heavy snow and ice can damage roof gutters and downspouts, and ice dams often result in costly roof and water damage. Keeping gutters and downspouts clear of ice helps to facilitate runoff which dramatically reduces the risks to your home.

Self-regulating heat cable construction

When gutters and downspouts are blocked, and there is nowhere for the precipitation above to go, melted snow can pool up on your roof or run over the ice and drips down onto the ground. As this ice builds up along your roof edges during winter months, it can melt and refreeze several times, leading to roof damage and water seepage inside your home. Now for some good news—a Warmzone gutter melt system is a truly efficient, affordable home improvement project that can keep your gutters and downspouts free and clear from ice and snow buildup every winter.

The backbone of the system is Warmzone’s durable self-regulating roof deicing cable, one of the most recommended roof heating solutions available for roofs, gutters and drain pipes. (See what separates Warmzone’s self-regulating heat cable from the competition. Self-regulating RoofHeat cable is constructed to be safe, durable and extremely efficient. This energy-wise cable has an irradiated conductive core that increases the heat output as the outside temperature falls, and decreases heat output as the temperature rises. With a rugged, durable outer construction, the heat cable can withstand harsh conditions for continuous use during the winter months.

Roof in need of a roof deicing and gutter melt system.RoofHeat deicing cable is part of a fully-automated gutter trace and roof deicing system designed to keep roof gutters and trouble spots clear of snow and ice buildup. A self-regulating heat cable system is controlled by automatic sensors capable of detecting when snow is on the way. Once detected, the sensor signals the control unit, activating the snowmelt system only when necessary to keep gutters and downspouts clear of ice and snow. The system is fully automated so there’s no switches to flip the system on or off, and operates only when you need it.

These systems are customizable and can accommodate virtually any size, type and construction of your roof. And self-regulating roof deicing cable can also be combined with other recommended Warmzone systems such as the RoofHeat STEP deicing system to create an optimal solution for you. For more information on installing a RoofHeat radiant gutter trace and deicing system to protect your roof next winter, call a Warmzone pro at 888.488.9276.

HOTNEWS

Electric vs. Hydronic Snowmelt Systems

Which Radiant Heat System is Best for You?

Old man winter is providing plenty of incentive for many of us to purchase a hydronic or electric radiant snow melting system, and Warmzone can help you settle on which system to choose for melting snow and ice from your driveway. The good news—both hydronic and electric snowmelt systems are effective, efficient, and surprisingly affordable solutions to keeping exterior porches, walkways and driveways clear and dry.

Hydronic systems heat a mixture of hot water and propylene glycol (anti-freeze), then circulate it through a network of polymer Pex tubing installed in asphalt, concrete, or just about any other medium. The water is circulated from a centrally located water heater or boiler through the Pex tubing to warm your sidewalk or driveway. These systems feature condensing boilers that can be powered by any energy source, including natural gas, wood, oil or even solar panels, making operation extremely affordable.

Paver heated sidewalk

Electric radiant snowmelt systems can also be installed in a variety of mediums including hot asphalt, mortar beds, under pavers, and concrete etc. Prior to a concrete pour, heat cable is laid down and secured to the remesh with wire ties. The system’s activation device (in-pavement or aerial-mount snow sensor), communicates with a compact master control unit to send power to the embedded heat cable which quickly and evenly distributes heat to prevent ice and snow build up.

Both snow melting systems feature energy efficient, advanced technology backed by impressive warranties. Generally, hydronic is the best pick for larger-scale, commercial snow melting applications because of the potential for lower operating costs; whereas electric radiant heat systems are often the more preferred solution for residential or home improvement projects. Hydronic snow melting systems require a larger investment upfront. They rely on a high-efficiency heater or boiler to function properly, and they cannot be retrofitted in existing driveways, so in addition to the system, you’re looking at the cost of a driveway tear out and pour. The systems also need their own dedicated mechanical room.

Electric radiant snow melting systems feature rapid response times and are extremely efficient. They rely on a sensor and a small control unit to operate, so the initial cost up front is decidedly smaller. If you want to save a few bucks on installation, Warmzone’s ClearZone electric radiant heat cable comes on a spool or in pre-configured mats that can be laid out for quick, easy installation. And, ClearZone electric radiant heat cable installation is very easy to customize, so you can configure your system to ideally suit your budget and snow melting needs. You can heat the entire driveway or a strip up the middle or just two 24-inch tire tracks. Electric systems grant you lots of custom options.

Probably the biggest incentive for choosing electric radiant snow melting systems is their efficiency in removing ice and snow. Designed to produce 30-50 watts per square foot, ClearZone radiant heat cable has the quickest response time (time to heat the driveway upon system startup) of any snow melting system on the market). Hydronic systems rely on hot water. More time is required to heat the water before it is subsequently pumped through the system, so the response time is considerably less.

If you’ve had it “up to here” with snow this winter, it’s not too late to purchase and install a snow melting system. For more information on hydronic and electric radiant snow melting systems, contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276.

FoilHeat Floor Heating Mats

Your Perfect Solution for Heating Carpet, Laminate and Other Flooring
A FoilHeat radiant heat mat is an excellent way to warm up frosty laminate and even carpeted floors when the weather outside is frightful. If your floors rest on concrete, life at home can be especially chilling during the winter months. As you would expect, cranking up the thermostat to remedy the situation generates even more heat, all of which eventually rises, rather than solving your initial dilemma—cold floors. Made from durable heat-conducting aluminum materials, a FoilHeat radiant heating mat distributes heat quickly and evenly, so it’s not prone to “hot-spots” or localized heating you might expect from forced air, baseboard or other heating systems, making it a great alternative for home heating.

FoilHeat is a unique, ultra-thin electric radiant floor heating mat specifically designed for use under laminate, carpet, engineered wood, glued hardwood and other floating floors. This paper-thin grounded flat aluminum sheet can be layered between the installation pad and the floor with virtually no buildup, to deliver uniform heat throughout your home. And don’t let its “thin” skin fool you—FoilHeat maintains a durable yet flexible construction suitable for do-it-yourselfers and professional installers alike. It’s made with fluoropolymer insulated heating cables sandwiched between two layers of specially reinforced aluminum foil to form a strong, yet thin and flexible laminate mat that’s perfect for prolonged use.

If you’re intent on installing FoilHeat radiant heat mats in your home, no worries. Each mat is available in a range of nominal outputs and predetermined lengths for easy installation, regardless of the size and shape of your home’s interior flooring, or your heating requirements. Their thin construction can be safely and easily cut and shaped to meet the specific requirements of your project, so they’re a breeze to install, and ideal for efficiently heating any size or shape room, from basements and bedrooms to bathrooms and kitchens.

FoilHeat radiant floor heating system

 FoilHeat installed on slab to heat basement floor.

As with every Warmzone radiant heat system, FoilHeat mats are prefabricated and tested in a carefully controlled factory environment to ensure you receive a reliable product that’s designed to deliver consistent performance, year after year. Each UL-approved FoilHeat mat is watertight, completely grounded and safe enough to install under regularly steam-cleaned carpets or floors, and includes a 15-year warranty and manufacturer installation guarantee to boot.

While living over a concrete slab is wonderfully cool during the summer, in winter, it can be the polar opposite. If you’ve already worn out your slippers this season trying to keep warm, give Warmzone a call at 888.488.9276 to discover how a FoilHeat radiant floor heating system can help. Our consultants are the most knowledgeable and helpful radiant heat experts you could hope to talk with. Learn more about your floor heating options today.

Articles

Winter Weather Blamed for Toppling Bricks in Philadelphia

In January of 2015, bricks from a downtown Philadelphia building tumbled onto a neighboring roof and into the Lululemon Athletica clothing store, injuring three women. According to Philadelphia inspectors, the repeating process of water freezing and thawing likely weakened the structure, causing its collapse.

The “freeze-thaw” process is also what leads to ice dams, the culprit behind costly roof and water damage in homes and businesses throughout the country.

Skyscrapers in downtown Philadelphia
Skyscrapers in downtown Philadelphia.

While falling snow and ice presents a significant safety threat to pedestrians in cities like Philadelphia, ice dams pose the greatest threat to homeowners. As heat rises from the home, it can escape into the attic and warm the roof, causing water to trickle down near the roof’s edge. But the roof eaves are colder, causing the water to refreeze. As this process is repeated, water can build up behind the ice where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Warmzone roof de-icing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. The roof heating systems are easy to customize and install. Once installed the roof de-icing and gutter heating systems operate only when conditions warrant, keeping heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and preventing ice dams from forming along roof edges.

In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof de-icing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for each roof.

Philadelphia during a snowstorm
Downtown Philadelphia during a winter snowstorm.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout the Philadelphia area. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and the customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

To learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options, call 888.488.9276. Many home and business owners in Philadelphia are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof de-icing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more – with no obligation or sales pressure. Or visit Warmzone online. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available. Visit warmzone.com and learn more about radiant heating systems and why some systems (and services) are better than others when it comes to heating specific projects.

Radiant Heat News

All-Purpose Outdoor Heating Blankets

Rely on Heating Blankets for All Your Outdoor Needs

They say few things in life are certain. Most days you wake up and have a plan for how you think your day will go and pretty soon (as soon as you walk out the door usually) life hits you smack in the face and rearranges your day entirely. What you expected to happen doesn’t happen at all. So it’s hard to rely on anything for sure. The good thing about an all-purpose heating blanket is that in all ways you can always count on them. All your outdoor projects are made better because of the reliability of an easy-to-use outdoor heating blanket.

PowerBlanket outdoor heating blankets are versatile and durable insulated mats that thaw the ground, heat barrels, buckets of liquid, car batteries and engines, cure concrete, and even provide warmth for pets. PowerBlankets, as well as Warmtrax portable heating mats, are often used as portable snow melting solutions. Both types of heating mats are built for rugged outdoor use and are simple to use.

In many ways it is the ideal outdoor heating tool because it wears so many different hats. And each new hat an outdoor heating blanket wears it does well at the task at hand. Relying on a heating mat is one certain thing in your day. As long as you provide your weatherproof heating blanket with the proper electricity (120 volts), you are assured that your outdoor heating in all ways is heated always. Our all-purpose heating blanket is portable as well, so you can roll it up, smash it into a back seat and move it to the location you desire heat to happen. Simple as that, all ways, always.

Premier Radiant Heat Solutions