Articles

Warmzone Roof De-icing Systems: Boosting Your Equity Above the Roofline

Invest in Your Home with Roof Heating and Gutter Trace Systems

Right now you probably have a good idea of the condition of your home, from top to bottom. If you’re coming up short above the roofline, the fix could be as simple as a Warmzone electric radiant heated roof or gutter system. During the winter months, ice and snow build up can have a devastating effect on your roof, causing gutters to sag and shingles to break free. The good news—an electric radiant snow melting system can eliminate this damage without emptying your wallet.

Just what can a good roof de-icing system do for you? A well-fitted, properly installed radiant heat snow melting system along your roof line will eliminate prolonged ice-damming during the winter months. Eliminating ice damming, in turn, can prevent unwanted seepage through roofing materials into roof decking. This can cause some serious damage to the roof before finding its way inside to damage ceilings, walls and floors, resulting in mold growth. A Warmzone roof de-icing system is the optimal solution for melting snow and ice from roof eaves, valleys, even entire roofs.

Low-voltage roof heating system being installed.

What’s in an electric radiant roof de-icing system? These radiant heat systems feature three main components:

  • Heating Element – The low-voltage roof heating systems feature a heating element, which is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage, and installed underneath the shingles. The roof gutter trace systems feature self-regulating heat cable that is placed in the gutters and downspouts to keep gutters free of snow and ice.
  • Power/Control Unit – The controller monitors power and output to ensure safe, accurate, optimal system performance. The power unit monitors the heating element under the roof to melt snow and ice, protecting your roof from ice damage.
  • An activation device (snow sensor) – Warmzone offers different types of sensors. The aerial sensor (which is typically used for roof heating systems) is a gutter-mounted snow switch. Like the aerial sensor, the pavement mounted sensor also detects precipitation and temperatures to signal the controller when conditions warrant. However, this sensor is installed in the pavement (and is used more for heated driveways and snow melting systems than roof de-icing. Both sensors provide fully automated snow melting for your roof de-icing system.

Warmzone roof heating solutions are customizable for just about any roof type and configuration. And Warmzone is the recognized industry leader for providing one of the largest selections of state-of-the-art radiant snow melting systems, including electric and hydronic options. Unlike other “one-solution-fits-all” providers, Warmzone bases a solution on your budget and specific needs to deliver the best performing roof de-icing, driveway heating, or floor heating system possible.

Determining the ideal heat cable, thermostat and sensor for your roof heating job depends in part on the size, type and construction of the roof, and also on the overall requirements of a particular installation. Warmzone is always available, with the experts and expertise necessary to assess your system and determine what you’ll need to optimize overall performance for your home. So, if you’re ready to pull the trigger on a roof de-icing system, give Warmzone a call at 888-488-9276 to discuss your options.

Articles

Record Breaking Snowstorm Blankets Newark

In 2016, Newark City, New Jersey broke the record for receiving the most snow from one multi-day snowstorm. As of January 24, the Weather Service lists Newark’s snowfall total at 28.1 inches, breaking all records set since 1931. As city snowplows struggled to keep the main thoroughfares open, homeowners struggled to keep in compliance with local snow removal laws by shoveling and salting sidewalks and driveways.

Manually shoveling snow

According to the Newark Municipal Code, owners, tenants, or occupants of homes in the city must remove snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to residential properties after snow ceases to fall or ice ceases to form. The code requires that a path three feet in width be cleared on sidewalks in front of homes. If ice cannot be removed from sidewalks, the code requires that sand or other substances be spread on the ice to make the surface safe for pedestrians.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Newark residents have been busy these past few winters. And weather experts continue to predict above average snowfall for upcoming winters.

But Newark residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having a few extra supplies on hand and a full refrigerator and cupboards, some New Jersey residents are turning to radiant heat to make the snow removal process a bit easier.

Warmzone snow melting systems are energy efficient and maintenance free. Not only do these systems eliminate the need for manual snow removal, but they have proven valuable to businesses by keeping entrances and parking areas clear of snow and ice for customers.

Electric snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The systems include an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When temperatures are below a set point – typically 39° Fahrenheit – it sends power to the embedded heat cable, warming the area and preventing snow accumulation.

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.

The proven ClearZone electric 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 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.

When you purchase a Warmzone snow melting system, you also receive free installation support services. We have an experienced staff dedicated especially for installation support 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 de-icing and floor heating systems. Call 888.488.9276 to learn more.

Radiant Heat News

Roof Deicing Protects Homes in New York, New York

Roof Deicing and Gutter Trace Systems Eliminate Dangerous Ice Hazards

We see this phenomenon in almost every neighborhood in New York, New York; dangerous icicles forming on the roofs of our homes and our neighbor’s homes. The need for a roof snow melting system always seemed like a good idea, but was perceived by many homeowners as an unattainable luxury. However, as consumers learn about the benefits and affordability of roof deicing systems, more and more homeowners in New York, are now finding heated roofs to be a necessity.

Skyscrapers in downtown Philadelphia

Safety for family and friends is always at the forefront of our minds. Ice dams and icicles that form in the winter months cause unnecessary hazards that most homeowners aren’t willing to put up with. Icicles can easily dislodge, fall, and injure a person standing below. Ice dams cause expensive damage to roofs, and possibly the interior of homes if leaking or structural damage occurs. Installing roof deicing heat cables is a simple and cost-effective way to prevent the winter hazards associated with living in New York.

Roof heat can easily be added to your roof eaves, thereby eliminating ice and snow in those areas. Heated roofs keep your home perimeter safe and reduce the risk of costly repairs that come with the destructive powers of winter.

Protecting your home, roof, and loved ones with a roof deicing system offers freeze protection throughout the harsh winter months. Many homeowners in New York, New York are praising the peace of mind that comes from the protection that roof snow melting systems provide. Warmzone offers roof heating systems and gutter trace heat cable for all types of applications and roofing surfaces, including new construction, remodeling, or existing roofs.

For more information, please call 888.488.9276.

Radiant Heat News

Roof Deicing – A Smart Investment for Homeowners in Syracuse, New York

Roof Deicing and Gutter Trace Systems Eliminate Dangerous Ice Hazards

It’s all too common in most Syracuse, New York neighborhoods; falling roof ice and dangerous ice buildup forming on roofs and ledges of homes and businesses. The need for a roof deicing system has long since been the coveted solution, but installing a gutter or roof deicing system was perceived by many consumers as a luxury for the wealthy. However, as home and business owners learn about the benefits and affordability of roof deicing systems, more and more residents in Syracuse are now finding heated roofs to be an affordable and necessary investment.

Safety for family and friends is always a concern, and safety for customers is at the forefront of the minds of business establishments. Ice dams and icicles that form in the winter months cause unnecessary hazards that most homeowners aren’t willing to put up with. Icicles can easily dislodge, and injure pedestrians below. Ice dams not only can cause expensive damage to roofs, but once a roof is damaged, the consequence can be expensive water damage to the interior of homes and businesses. Installing roof deicing heat cables is a simple and cost-effective way to prevent the winter hazards associated with living in Syracuse.

Roof heat can easily be added to your roof eaves, thereby eliminating ice and snow in those areas. Heated roofs keep your home perimeter safe and reduce the risk of costly repairs that come with the destructive powers of winter – not to mention reducing the chances of litigation due to personal injury.

Protecting your home, roof, pedestrians and loved ones with a roof deicing system offers safety and freeze prevention throughout the harsh winter months. Many homeowners in Syracuse, New York are praising the peace of mind that comes from the protection that roof snow melting systems provide. Warmzone offers roof heating systems and gutter heating cable for all types of applications and roofing surfaces, including new construction, remodeling, or existing roofs. For more information, call 888.488.9276 today.

Radiant Heat News

Roof Deicing Protects Homes in Buffalo, New York

Roof Deicing and Gutter Trace Systems Eliminate Dangerous Ice Hazards

Known for its beauty as well as its extreme winter weather, neighborhoods in Buffalo, New York are all too familiar with snow and dangerous icicles forming on the roofs of homes and businesses. Installing a roof snow melting system always seemed like the ideal solution, but perceived by many as an unattainable luxury, most resorted to manually removing heavy ice and snow from roofs and gutters. However, as consumers learn about the benefits and affordability of roof deicing systems, more and more homeowners in Buffalo, are now finding heated roofs to be the safest, most reliable solution to protect their buildings and ensure safety for pedestrians.

A mountain lodge in dire need of a roof deicing system

Safety for family and friends is always at the forefront of our minds. Ice dams and icicles that form in the winter months cause unnecessary hazards that most homeowners aren’t willing to put up with. Icicles can easily dislodge, fall, and injure a person standing below. Ice dams cause expensive damage to roofs, and possibly the interior of homes if leaking or structural damage occurs. Installing roof deicing heat cables is a simple and cost-effective way to prevent the winter hazards associated with living in Buffalo.

Roof heat can easily be added to your roof eaves, thereby eliminating ice and snow in those areas. Heated roofs keep your home perimeter safe and reduce the risk of costly repairs that come with the destructive powers of winter.

Protecting your home, roof, and loved ones with a roof deicing system offers freeze protection throughout the harsh winter months. Many homeowners in Buffalo, New York are praising the peace of mind that comes from the protection that roof snow melting systems provide. Warmzone offers roof heating systems and gutter trace heat cable for all types of applications and roofing surfaces, including new construction, remodeling, or existing roofs.

Articles

Sergeant Burr and the Snow Brigade

The Battle of Radiant Ridge. The Snow Brigade Takes on the Heated Driveway Fortress

A thick cloud of white specs began falling from the grey sky. “Alright, you snowflakes!” the gruff sergeant bellowed. “Listen up! We’ve got a job to do and we’re gonna do it!” Sergeant Burr studied the troops as they drifted down in the cold breeze.

“Our mission is to harass those two-legged monstrosities down there and bring their travel plans to a halt. Got that? We are to secure the driveway and keep them confined to their house. Make all exit points dangerous and impassible. We will impede all manner of travel, whether it’s by foot or vehicle. Do you understand?”

“Sir, yes sir!” the group yelled in unison.

“Alright then, when you land on that driveway tighten up your ranks and hold your ground. I’ll be taking the high ground by the wintergreen pansies to supervise the operation. I’ll be there with you guys, fighting alongside you.”

Sergeant Burr, snowflake leader.
Sergeant Burr, leader of the Snowflake Battalion.

 

“Um Sergeant Burr, sir?” one timid private stepped forward.

“What’s on your mind, son?”

“Uh, yes sir, I uh, I heard that some of these places are installing heated driveways that pretty much vaporize entire battalions of snowflakes like us. How do we know they don’t have any weapons of mass melting down there?”

“Because our intelligence reports didn’t say anything about radiant heat!” the sergeant yelled. “Look down there! That driveway and sidewalk look the same as all the others, right? Now, enough with those crazy thoughts.”

“Um, yes sir.”

“Alright! So stop worrying. We’re going to use the element of surprise and bury ‘em before they can yell ‘Grandma busted her hip’. Got that?”

“Yeh-yes sir,” the snowflake sheepishly resigned and slipped back into rank.

“Dude,” a soldier next to him nudged. “Ya just gotta think positive man. Like, picture in your mind that the driveway down there is totally chill, man. It’s just a frigid slab of cement waiting for us ice-cool dudes to drift on down and cover up. Positive thinking man; just use the power of positive thinking. Believe it will be ice cold and it will be ice cold.”

“Well okay, sure,” the wary private said with a raised eyebrow, while distancing himself from the soldier.

“The rest of you snowflakes,” Sergeant Burr continued, “stop worrying about the radiant heat bogeyman and focus on your assignments. The first wave is to cover the surface. Link up and provide a thin sheet of ice so the next waves can pile on top to pack you down and hide you. You’ll be the tip of the spear; the secret slick surface that will bring down any of those two-legged mammals who dare to step outside.”

“What about the four-legged ones?” a soldier asked.

“We don’t care about them. They don’t have as far to go when they drop. It’s those bipedal ones that are a lot more fun to watch when they go down,” the sergeant said with a devilish grin. “Now let’s go down there and have some fun.”

The group descended closer and closer to the ground. The brown lawns and leafless trees were beginning to be overcome by the white army. In fact, the entire landscape was sinking slowly under a blanket of snow, but the driveway remained defiant. It stood alone in the drowning neighborhood.

“Man, I don’t like the looks of this,” the timid private said to a fellow paratrooper.

“Yeah,” came the reply. “That doesn’t look right.”

“No talking in the ranks!” the sergeant howled. He raised his hand slowly and then threw it down to his side. “First wave, hit the ground! Go, go, go!”

The blanket of snowflakes fell onto the concrete, but shrieks and screams filled the air. The snowflakes were gone. They disappeared. One after another the snowflakes hit the pavement before letting out a yelp and trickling away. The snow was disarmed, turning into little droplets that drained down the driveway and into the gutter.

The young private was now nothing more than a small drop of water. He recognized the droplet next to him and gave him a shove. “Positive thinking, aye? Just think it will be ice cold and it will be ice cold, aye? Rrright. Positive thinking, my lily white icicle!”

“Yeah man. Like, total bummer,” came the sheepish reply.

But some of the first snowflakes to hit the driveway didn’t even make it to the water stage. Like the private said, the snowflakes were vaporized, where they drifted slowly back up to the sky.

“C’mon!” the stubborn sergeant hollered. “Waves two and three. Hit ‘em hard!”

But with each company of snowflakes the results were the same. The icy soldiers were nullified the second they hit the ground.

“Sarge!” a platoon leader yelled. “We can’t break through. It’s too hot down there. The driveway is fortified with radiant heat! We don’t stand a chance.”

The stubborn Sergeant only grew more desperate. “We . . . we gotta. Um,” he stammered and thought for a moment. Maybe it’s not a Warmzone heated driveway. Maybe we can overwhelm it.

“Everybody! he yelled. “We need a full frontal assault. We’ll overwhelm the driveway with sheer numbers!”

“But Sarge!”

“That’s an order,” the sergeant screamed. “Everyone to the driveway! It’s our only chance.” He called for reinforcements.

The sky grew white and thick sheets of snow descended. Snowflake after snowflake hit the ground, but no one could establish a foothold. It was impossible. Even when reinforcements that doubled the size of the assault force arrived, they could make no headway. Snow piled up on the ground next to the driveway, but the troops on the lawn could only watch in horror as their comrades fell to their doom.

Heated driveway and sidewalk
 The scene of the great snowflake massacre at Radiant Ridge; also referred to as Burr’s Last Stand.

“It’s a massacre,” one resigned.

Still the sergeant continued to bark his attack orders.

“That dude’s a lunatic,” a snowflake on the edge of the driveway remarked as he watched the sergeant scream his orders.

“He’s a cold-hearted dude,” a soldier observed.

“Yeah, got ice in his veins,” came a reply. 

“He’s got ice in his brain!” another injected, shaking his head. “There’s nothing you can do against a heated driveway. It’s hopeless!”

“For sure,” the soldiers agreed. “I reckon Sarge’s brain is melting. Poor guy has gone bananas.”

“Yeah, old ‘blood and guts’ is just ‘old drooling sludge,’.”

“Well, I’m just glad we landed here on the grass. Those heated driveways are murder on snow.”

The battle raged for over two hours, but when the final troops descended from the sky, the driveway and front sidewalk were completely dry. There was no trace of a battle. The army of snow successfully buried the surrounding yards, roads and roofs, but the pavement remained clear.

Sergeant Burr hugged his knees and rocked back and forth. His eyes stared blankly ahead as he repeated, “It’s a heated driveway. How could I know? It’s a heated driveway . . . ”

His soldiers tried to console him, but it was hopeless.

“C’mon Sarge,” the medics lifted him onto a stretcher. “It’s all over now.”

HOTNEWS

Add Luxurious Warmth to Your Home with an Energy Efficient ComfortTile Heated Floor

Combat Soggy-Sock Syndrome in Your Foyer this Winter

A ComfortTile radiant heated floor is a proven, energy-efficient way to stay one step ahead of winter. Most of us have battled soggy sock syndrome during the winter months (you know, the phenomenon that happens when you take your wet boots off at the door), but there’s a sure way to overcome this inconvenient winter mainstay. With a ComfortTile floor heating system warming up your entryway, your feet are more likely to stay dry and warm after you un-boot. These systems consist of thermostat-controlled heating cables under the surface of the floor to provide safe, evenly distributed heat. Because heat radiates up from the floor, radiant floor heat is a highly efficient means for combating cold winter temperatures.

ComfortTile floor heating mat and thermostat

ComfortTile electric radiant floor heating systems consist of thin heating cables that can be easily installed under virtually all types of floor surfaces to provide comfortable, even floor heat. A fully-programmable thermostat communicates with the heat cables to quickly and efficiently deliver heat to each zone or room as you see fit. There’s no wasted energy. Save money by heating only the
specific areas you need. Because there is no noisy blower and heating ducts or vents, ComfortTile radiant heated floors silently heats your home without stirring up dust and allergens. Radiant
heat is clean, quiet and used renewable energy.

ComfortTile floor heating mat and thermostat. ComfortTile is available in mats or on spools. The mats include a thin heating cable that’s pre-spaced on an adhesive-backed fiberglass mesh for easy installation. They are pre-terminated for use with 120 and 240 volts, heat an area two feet wide, and are available in a variety of lengths. For greater flexibility heating odd shaped rooms and areas, ComfortTile heat cable is available off spools. ComfortTile features a rapid response time and is suitable for heating tile, linoleum, wood, laminates and even carpeted flooring.

Having been in an environment that relies on radiant floor heat for providing warmth, I’ve seen and felt its effectiveness first hand. My young boy’s environmentally conscious school recently installed, radiant heated floors, and its effects are impressive. I’m particularly attuned to the performance of the heated floors because I work there in the evening. As fast as I can mop, these floors are drying directly behind me.

During winters, as snow accumulates, it’s not uncommon to see a dozen or so snow ensembles such as hats, gloves, coats and snow pants laid out on the school’s heated floor to dry. Despite the abundance of little wet feet, there’s little time for melted snow puddles to accumulate in this environment.

Imagine harnessing this same heating power in your home! Using ComfortTile to heat foyers and entryways is a great way to combat the tracking of ice and snow into your home. Radiant heat not only provides a little extra assurance beyond the welcome mat by providing comfortable warmth, but enhances safety by helping to eliminate slick wet spots that are typical during winters.

Warmzone is a trusted, leading provider of radiant heated floors for commercial and residential applications. To find out more about Warmzone products, design services and customer support, contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276 or visit www.warmzone.com.

Self-Regulating Heat Cable

Self-reg Cable for Roof Deicing and Pipe Trace Solutions

Self-regulating gutter trace heat cable is extremely effective and energy efficient thanks to its unique construction. The cable is comprised of a rugged, durable outer jacket surrounding an irradiated conductive core that increases the heat output as outside temperatures fall, and decreases output as temperatures rise. This construction also makes RoofHeat radiant heat cable incredibly resilient in the toughest conditions. The superior outer jacket allows provides greater flexibility and can be mounted to heat roof edged as well as in gutters and downspouts to facilitate runoff.

Self-regulating heat cableWarmzone roof deicing and gutter trace systems are fully automated and easy to customize. Warmzone roof heating experts will provide a comprehensive system design/layout as well as installation support and even free installation training if you choose. In addition to the self-regulating heat cable, Warmzone roof deicing systems include a snow/temperature sensor and thermostat or controller. Warmzone radiant heat professionals work closely with you to determine the best solution to meet your snow melting needs, power requirements and budget.

Heating your roof edges is a great way to protect your home from the water damage caused by ice dams. When warmer air escapes from your attic, it can melt the snow on your roof, causing it to run down towards the edges. However, the water refreezes when it reaches the eaves, and as this process is repeated over time, ice dams form, causing pools of water to backup behind the ice where
it can eventually damage your roofing and seep into your home, causing expensive water damage. Ice dams can also be responsible for causing structural decay and rot, or mold and mildew formation in the attic and on walls.

Heated roof edgeHeavy icicles can strain gutters and damage the support pins. No matter how you look at it, damage from roof ice and snow can be costly. A few well placed heat trace cables along your roof’s edge and in gutters and downspouts can serve as an excellent investment in your home. Contact a roof heating expert and learn more about the many roof deicing options that are available.

Self-regulating heat cable is also the ideal solution for pipe tracing and pipe freeze protection. Warmzone carries a variety of self-regulating heat cable for industrial, commercial and residential
heat trace applications. Warmzone designers are happy to talk with you to discuss the solutions that can best serve your needs. There’s no obligation, so call 888.488.9276 today.

Articles

ClearZone Heat Cable and Mats

It’s that time of year to dig out the coats, snow boots and Halloween costumes again. But there is still time for homeowners to decide how to spend this winter season. Will they choose to labor all season with a snow shovel to keep their walks and driveways clear, or are hoping to relax and let a heated driveway do all the work?

October is a prime month to help homeowners plan for winter. While a driveway heating system may seem like a luxury for many customers, Warmzone is making it easier than ever. Whether your customers want to heat an existing driveway or create a stylish new brick paver driveway, Warmzone offers the ideal snow melting cable – ClearZone heat cable – to keep driveways free of snow all winter long.

ClearZone snow melting heat cable in mat.

The ClearZone cables are ideal for melting snow in just about any outdoor area, including the growing trend for building outdoor living spaces for recreational and entertainment purposes. Several past articles have highlighted outdoor heating projects, such as parlors and patios, each of which utilize the CZ cables to ensure the ultimate in comfort, longevity and ease of use. An outdoor space is a great way to add value and comfort to homes, while still keeping within budget.

ClearZone heat cables are made specifically to withstand the harshest construction applications and extreme weather conditions. Durable ClearZone snow melting cables can be embedded in concrete and asphalt, as well as under brick pavers.

Many snowmelt systems are not capable of withstanding the harsh temperatures of new asphalt; and low-voltage systems do not pass the ASHRAE standard for snow melting systems. Warmzone offers one of the most comprehensive warranties on the market. Warmzone is a trusted manufacturer of radiant heat solutions and has a reputation for offering only the highest quality radiant heat products.

Installing a snow melting system eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and snow removal devices, and will increase the life span of your driveway and the value of the home. Whether you’re looking to install a heated driveway or create a new, warm outdoor space, Warmzone can help you plan a system that keeps within your customers’ budgets while providing a lifetime of benefits.

HOTNEWS

Don’t Get Spooked by Winter Weather

Meet Winter Head on with a Radiant Snow Melting System

You’ve no doubt heard about El Niño this year and the predictions of all the so called “weather experts”. Well, the truth is, we can never fully know what Mother Nature will bring us each year. Sure, we make the most educated guess possible, but it’s still just that – a guess.

So don’t let the doomsday sayers intimidate you into believing you’ll be lucky to escape winter alive this year. Halloween may be coming, but there’s no reason to be spooked by winter too. Certainly, it’s good to be prepared and keep some important items on hand for those times when you can’t make it to the store for a day or two, but chances are that winter will come and go, and spring will greet you with a smile – just like it did last year, and the year before.

But how you choose to deal with winter is up to you. For homeowners with steep driveways or business owners with outdoor steps, ramps and busy customer access points, installing a heated driveway or snow melting system is a pretty obvious solution. Radiant snow melting systems are fully automated and operate only when needed. That means that regardless what day or time the snow falls, the systems will respond to keep your driveway or walks clear of ice and snow during all of winter’s cold assaults.

Using salt to melt snow damages lawns and nearby shrubs.

Many consumers have opted to forego stocking up on salt and other snow melting chemicals prior to winter. Some have even been swayed not only by the convenience and effectiveness of radiant heat, but because of the added benefit to the environment. Salt and snow melting chemicals, while somewhat convenient in melting snow, are not so friendly on the surrounding landscape. The adverse environmental effects of salt and snowmelt chemicals leave scars year round. When spring arrives, the bordering grass and shrubs often reveal the ugly scars from the repeated use of snow melting chemicals during the winter.

But the greatest advantages of radiant snow melting systems are their convenience, clean, silent operation and round-the-clock reliability. And electric snow melting systems are maintenance free, saving your back from shoveling and your head from aching.

Heated driveway with brick pavers

Warmzone radiant snow melting systems are easy to customize and install. In addition to offering the industry’s most reputable heat cable and system components, Warmzone also includes professional system design and installation support services. When you work with Warmzone, you are partnering with experienced professionals who see your project through – from start to end. After all, radiant heat is a considerable investment in your home, so it makes sense to deal with the best, most trusted experts in the field.

Contact a radiant heat professional at Warmzone today (888.488.9276). Warmzone also offers free installation training. For more information about our training courses, call us at 801.948.7545.

Avoid These Common Installation Mistakes!

Important Do’s and Dont’s when Installing Radiant Heat

Record Resistance Values in Warranty Card – First and foremost, keep your warranty valid by following the installation instructions and using a megohmmeter to measure the cable readings before, during and after the installation process as outlined. (The megohmmeter is a special type of ohmmeter used to measure the electrical resistance of insulators.) Measuring the cable’s ohm reading during the installation process provides the required warranty information and can reveal if any cable has been damaged during the install.

 ► Upon receiving the heat cable, check the ohm value shown on the cable tag. Write this figure in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Measure the ohm reading of the cable and record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Lay the cable out and secure it so that it is ready to be embedded (under concrete, asphalt or pavers). Measure the cable’s ohm reading prior to being embedded. Record this value in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Apply the top layer and measure the ohm reading. Record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
Cable Installation Tips
 ► Always maintain proper cable spacing. (Cables should be spaced no less than 2 inches apart (center-to-center) and no more than 4 inches, center to center. Minimum spacing is 2 inches. Maximum cable spacing is 4 inches.)
 ► Never allow the cables to cross or touch each other.
 ► Never cut the heating cable.
 ► In concrete and asphalt applications, the installed heating cable should be 2 inches from the finished surface. (The heating cable should never be resting on the ground prior to the pour.)
 ► Never run heating cable through an expansion joint. (Make sure the joint is tooled or cut NO deeper than 1¼-inches. The cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint.)
 ► Do not flex or strain the cable splice by pulling on the cable. All of the cable must be embedded, including the entire splice and 6-inches of cold lead.
 ► Avoid kinking or bending the cable sharply (which causes the insulation to “bubble” and pull away from the cable).
 ► When installing heat cable in paver applications, make certain that there is ½-inch of compacted paver sand or stone dust on top of the heating cables or mats. (Cables must be completely encased with no air gaps.)

Radiant heat warranty card
      Warranty card for snow melting system.

Do not hesitate to take advantage of Warmzone’s personal installation support services. We have dedicated experts on hand to assist installers, so if you have any questions during the installation process, our electricians and designers are happy to assist you. Warmzone also offers free installation training, both in-house as well as training via web seminar. It is our goal to ensure that our customers are happy and that each system is installed correctly and performing as intended.

HOTNEWS

Warmzone Roof Deicing Systems

Low-Voltage, Self-Regulating System Helps to Prevent Damage

Another brutal winter is looming on the horizon. It seems that average snowfalls are increasing while winter temperatures are decreasing for much of the country, and climatologists are predicting heavier than normal snowfall and colder than average temperatures. . Fortunately, there are steps you can take now to deal with brutal winters – especially when it comes to protecting your roof and home from snow and ice damage.

The RoofHeat STEP system features a unique and highly effective low-voltage heating element that can be installed discreetly under shingle or even metal roofs to prevent ice dams from forming and facilitating runoff in roof valleys. The system utilizes a thin polymer heating element that can be nailed and stapled through, and cut on site, facilitating quick, easy installation. The flexible heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to ensure that the panel is protected against UV rays and other potential damages.

Low-voltage heating element

Installing the RoofHeat STEP roof deicing system along the edge of the roof can eliminate ice dams from forming. Ice dams are by far the biggest culprit when it comes to costly roof and water damage. Ice dams typically form when heat escapes the attic to warm the snow on the roof. There, it melts during the day and trickles down towards the roof edges. Because there is no attic along the roof edges, the roof is colder and the water refreezes near the edge of the roof. Each day more water runs down to this point and accumulates near the roof’s edge to form a considerable dam of ice. As water pools behind the dam, it can seep into small cracks and expand as it refreezes, causing damage to the roof and even finding its way into the home. This is where expensive water damage can take place – often beginning well before the homeowner is aware of any problem.

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 STEP Roof Deicing System

  • Panels can be nailed or stapled through (but do not penetrate the bus braids.
  • Low-voltage, self regulating system is extremely energy efficient.
  • Different panel widths are available to heat roof edges, valleys and gutters.
  • The system is fully automated and operates quietly.
  • Heating element comes in rolls that can be installed quickly and easily.
  • The heating element is installed discreetly under the shingles.
  • The versatile heating element can be installed under metal roofs.
  • Warmzone includes professional system design and installation support services. To view a system installation overview, visit the Installing Heated Roofs general overview web page.

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 tailored to your specific roof heating needs. Call for more information or send us your project details for a free quote.

El Niño Expected to Affect Winter Weather in Northern America

According to climatologists, a colossal weather event is brewing in the Pacific. Every few years, the Earth’s winds shift and the water in the Pacific Ocean gets warmer than usual. This effect, called an El Niño, not only affects winter in the U.S., but can also impact weather on a global scale. According to climatologists, conditions in the central and east-central equatorial Pacific ocean are showing the potential for a record-breaking El Niño weather event. While predicting the weather is still somewhat of a guessing game, scientists are confident that this El Niño is going to impact winter weather in the U.S. – to what extent, we can’t say for certain. But given the current conditions in the Pacific, meteorologists are warning U.S. residents of a potential record-breaking El Niño.

Heated driveway with brick pavers

Fox News reports that the current El Niño, nicknamed Bruce Lee, is already the second strongest on record for this time of year and could be one of the most potent weather changers of the past 65 years. The NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, stated in its latest forecast release that this year’s El Niño is “significant and strengthening.”

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac this year’s El Niño will deliver a wetter than normal winter to much of Northern America, as well as impact weather conditions on a global scale. The weather reference book predicts “super cold temperatures with heavier than normal snowfall” for much of the country.

With recent and projected winters of increasingly colder temperatures and heavier precipitation, consumers are searching for reliable, round-the-clock snow removal solutions. Automated heated driveways and snow melting systems have proven to be the answer for many businesses and homeowners.

ClearZone snow melting systems have long served as the best, most trusted method for keeping driveways, sidewalks, ramps and steps free from snow and ice buildup. The snow melting systems feature industry leading heat cable and state-of-the-art snow sensors and controllers combined with professional system design and installation support services.

By teaming with Warmzone, customers have the peace of mind knowing that they are dealing with experienced professionals who go the extra mile in terms of customer service. By providing a detailed AutoCAD of the snow melting system, installers know all the technical information such as power requirements, breaker sizes, etc., prior to any installation taking place. And Warmzone’s dedicated installation support experts are on hand to assist you during the installation process if you need. At Warmzone, we do much more than sell radiant heat systems. We understand that a snow melting system is only as good as its installation. While industry leading heat cable and components are important, they are of little benefit if not installed correctly.

That’s why Warmzone insists on providing unparalleled customer support and installation services. And in addition to receiving your system design and installation support, Warmzone also offers free installation training courses. Installers may call Warmzone and receive personal training online or visit Warmzone headquarters in Salt Lake City to attend training courses in person.

After the training, installers receive a certificate of completion from Warmzone, and future projects can then be referred to those trained installers with experience. This not only helps installers gain more business, but helps homeowners by referring construction professionals who have been trained and are experienced when it comes to installing radiant heat systems.

Given Warmzone’s unmatched customer services and top tier products, it’s no surprise why Warmzone is a favorite among professional builders. So if you’re looking to install a heated driveway – or floors, or roof deicing system – go with the experienced pros who will stand beside you throughout the design and installation process. Installing a radiant heat system is a smart investment in your home, so do it right and go with the friendly professionals you can trust – Warmzone.

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

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