Tag Archives: Heated driveway

HOTNEWS

Heated Driveway

What are my Options for Installing an Automated Driveway Heating System?

For years, I tossed around the idea of installing a radiant heated driveway. I’d been needing to repave my old asphalt driveway, so I figured I’d look into my heated driveway options when I upgraded my driveway – some time down the road.

I had heard a lot about radiant heated driveways, especially from one of my neighbors, who’d installed his three years earlier. I knew that radiant heat systems were supposed to be super-efficient, as well as environmentally friendly and fully automated. (My neighbor also pointed out that the systems are maintenance free and easy to customize.)

While I gained a basic understanding of driveway heating systems, I was still a little fuzzy when it came to the whole “customizable” thing. What did that mean? Why would I need to have customized system? As I became more attracted to the idea of having a heated driveway, I still didn’t really understand what all the custom options were, and which ones would be best for my driveway.

Heated driveway with heated tire track configuration.

Apparently, no two driveway heating systems are exactly alike. In addition to the custom layout, the watts per square foot can also vary, depending on the customer and the location of the install. Warmzone designs systems according to ASHRAE standards, so each system is tailored to handle the typical winter demands associated with its location.

What are the Options?

After years of procrastinating, I finally decided to repave my old asphalt driveway. I reached out to Warmzone and told them all about my project. My driveway isn’t particularly large, but it’s on an incline, so I wanted to make sure the snow melting system covered the length of the driveway. However, I also have a parking apron, and I wanted some of that area cleared as well.

Warmzone gave me several options that would meet my snow melting needs, but I also had to consider keeping within a somewhat limited budget. This is where all the custom options came to light. Warmzone ended up designing a system that accomplished all my snow melting objectives, and stayed within my budget. (I simply laid out the heating mats over the area I wanted to heat, and then secured the mats to the existing asphalt. Next, I had a new layer of asphalt installed over the existing driveway.)

Rather than heating my entire driveway, or a strip in the middle of the driveway, I opted to install heated tire tracks. Two 24-inch wide heated tracks ran the length of my driveway, and I also had heated tire tracks installed where the other car would be parked.

Heated driveway options

Having a variety of custom options was a great benefit, and allowed me to get precisely what I wanted. Some of the more popular custom layout options

Heat entire areas – For some homeowners, heating the entire driveway is the ideal solution. Heating cable or mats can be installed to keep driveways, sidewalks, steps, ramps and other outdoor areas completely free of snow and ice. The systems can be easily customized for a wide variety of applications.

Heat only the trafficked areas – Some homeowners opt to only heat the trafficked areas. For example, instead of heating an entire driveway, simply heat an 8-foot strip in the middle of the driveway, or a 2-foot wide strip in the middle of the sidewalk. This can be a money saver for customers by installing radiant heat only to areas that are accessed the most.

Heat only small, select areas – Radiant heat can be easily applied to heat small, specific areas. One of the most popular options consists of heating two 24-inch wide tire tracks. (This is the option that worked best for me.)

The top radiant heat providers will work closely with you to show you how to best meet your specific snow melting needs while keeping within your budget.

Small, custom sized radiant heated snowmelt systems can be installed in disability ramps, stairways, small patios, walkways, dog kennels, and more. The applications are limited only by your imagination. Customers also have the option of installing an electric or hydronic radiant heat system. 

There are virtually unlimited layout options, and a good company, like Warmzone, can design the ideal system for your needs. This is especially important for those who need to keep within a budget.

Automated snow melting systems are energy efficient, maintenance free, and operate silently. To learn more about these clean, renewable energy systems, call a friendly Warmzone representative today, at 888-488-9276.

Warmzone is one of the largest providers of floor heating, snow melting, and roof de-icing systems, as well as luxury home heating amenities. For more information about Warmzone radiant heat systems or luxury amenities, contact a friendly Warmzone representative today, at 888-488-9276.

HOTNEWS

My Summer Projects

Installing a Heated Driveway – Now This is Something I can get Excited About!

Every summer I make a list of all the things that I need (and want) to accomplish – in addition to my list of routine maintenance and other work-related chores. Of course, my sweet wife also cheerfully contributes, so I have a lengthy “honey-do” list as well. Sometimes I think that summer isn’t long enough for me to accomplish all that’s needed, especially when I throw in all the “fun” things that I want to do.

That’s right, I have a pretty hefty list of recreational activities on the docket. You know what they say about “all work and no play”. B-O-R-I-N-G. Ideally, I’d like to plan things out so that I get a day of fun for every day that I spend doing chores. Every afternoon that I spend replacing or repairing sprinklers should be compensated with an afternoon at the lake. Makes sense to me. I guess you could say that I’m committed to an equal opportunity summer.

The dry, warm weather of summer also lends itself to construction activities. If you’re a homeowner, I’m sure you’ve discovered the never-ending list of maintenance and small construction upgrade projects too. (It’s in the top drawer in the kitchen cubby, underneath the mortgage payment notices and insurance forms.)

Unfortunately, most home upgrade or maintenance projects are mundane tasks that I just don’t get too excited about. Sure, I’d rather be kayaking or vacationing in Italy, but nope, I’m a responsible homeowner. I also understand the importance of keeping the illusion alive that my wife married a responsible man.

Vernazza Italy
As far as summer activities go, I’m not sure how to top a trip to Italy’s Cinque Terre (Vernazza shown).

This year I may have a job that I’m a little more excited about. It’s a substantial home improvement project, but that only enhances the excitement for me. I’m happy to say that my wife and I have decided to install a heated driveway.

I’ve endured many years of shoveling our walks and driveway – at all sorts of hours. I’ve been out there clearing the snow at 5 o’clock in the morning as well as 9 o’clock at night. I’ve paid my shoveling dues. If there were such a thing, I know I’d qualify for the prestigious 1,000-hour gold shovel award. The problem is, sometimes after I shovel and salt, I still manage to miss that one tiny spot that my wife’s foot always finds. Let me tell ya, high heels and ice make for a disastrous combination.

Fortunately, the insurance covered most of the medical costs. Too bad it didn’t address any compensation for the emotional trauma and mental stress. Yes, I was traumatized and stressed from my wife’s verbal reprimands. I tried to not take it personal. Instead, I chalked it up to the colorful ramblings of someone in extreme pain. You can hardly even notice her limp nowadays.

Heated paver driveway
A radiant heated driveway after a snowstorm.

Over the years, my aging back has slowly been urging me to look into getting one of those fancy radiant heated driveways. I guess what pushed me over the edge was when my wife went down. Now, being the responsible husband that I am, I’m taking action. An automated heated driveway would not only keep the entire driveway clear of snow and ice 24/7, it also dries the surface after a storm, so there’s no chance the melted snow will refreeze. Regardless of the storm, or the time of day, our driveway will be clear and safe. I’m such a responsible husband.

Unlike most of my other summer chores, I’m not waiting until fall to start this project. Installing the heated driveway now is a smart move. I don’t have to worry about the frantic seasonal push to complete the work before winter hits. The heated driveway will be ready well before the first snow falls. Man, I’m such a responsible husband.

Fortunately, dealing with Warmzone makes the process of installing a heated driveway easy. Their customer support is absolutely top notch. I knew nothing about radiant heat, but they walked me through the various options and answered all of my questions. They have a team of experienced designers who are creating my custom system, and they even provide free installation training for the installers and electrician. Yep, this project is one that I’m actually excited about this year. My wife and I are going to enjoy this for years to come.

All of Warmzone’s great customer service makes it easier for me to take care of the other summer tasks on hand. But I may not tell my wife how easy Warmzone is making this process. After all, I’m pretty sure our fence will last another year. Heck, most of the chores on the list can wait another year. But I do need to mow the lawn. Yeah, I’m sure a responsible husband.

Lawn mower
Just one of the many summer chores . . .

Read Part II of this series: Upgrading My Driveway.

Warmzone is one of the largest providers of floor heating, snow melting, and roof de-icing systems, as well as luxury home heating amenities. For more information about Warmzone radiant heat systems or luxury amenities, contact a friendly Warmzone representative today, at 888-488-9276.

HOTNEWS

The Surprising Benefits of a Radiant Heated Driveway

Radiant heated driveways offer a range of benefits for home and business owners. Certainly, the most obvious is the elimination of manual snow removal. Instead of donning the coat and gloves to attack a snow-packed driveway first thing in the morning, homeowners can relax with a steaming cup of coffee in the warmth of their home. For business owners nothing beats the feeling of arriving at the facility and seeing the sidewalks, ramps, and/or parking areas completely clear of snow and ice. When you install a radiant snow melting system there’s no need to hire a plowing service or ask employees to come in early to shovel and salt the sidewalks.

Automated snow melting systems operate only when needed. The systems utilize an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When moisture is detected and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (usually set at 39°F), the sensor signals the controller and power is then sent to the embedded heat cables, warming the driveway as the first snowflakes fall.

Heated driveway with cut out

A radiant heated driveway with cutout showing the embedded heating cables.

The convenience of automated heated driveways can’t be beat, but in addition to not having to shovel, plow, or salt your driveway during the winter, the systems also provide a tremendous safety feature. While heated driveways operate only when snowstorms hit, the systems include an “after run” function that allows the system to remain on for a short period after the storm. This dries the surface to eliminate any melted snow from turning into thin sheets of dangerous “black” ice.

An Added Benefit

Perhaps a surprising benefit of radiant heat is that a snow melting system can extend the life of your driveway. Concrete driveway surfaces tend to last longer when they’re not exposed to sub-zero temperatures. In cold weather climates with ample snowfall, many concrete driveways fall victim to spalling. Concrete is naturally porous, so water from melted snow can seep into every tiny crevice, and refreeze.  The damage can occur when the ice expands. As this process repeats, it is known as spalling, and it can slowly deteriorate the finished driveway surface. Over time, the spalling can eventually lead to cracking in the cement.

While seal coating your driveway is one method for helping to extend your pavement’s life span, for those living in cold climates with abundant snowfall, adding an embedded radiant heat system is also a smart move. You’ll enjoy the convenience and enhanced safety provided by radiant heat, and perhaps you’ll even add a few years to the life of your driveway.

Installing a radiant snow melting system can also boost the equity of your home. It’s not only a labor-saving, safety-enhancing, driveway-protecting tool, it’s also a smart investment. Many upscale homes nowadays feature interior radiant heat (heated floors) as well as a heated driveway. Adding radiant heat to your home will likely increase the resale value of your property.

Take time today to learn more about the benefits of radiant heat. The systems can be easily customized to meet your specific performance needs, as well as your budget. Instead of heating your entire driveway you can install two heated tire tracks (24-inches wide), or if you’re on a tight budget, you can simply heat the area that’s on an incline, or other troublesome spots. The choice is yours and the options are unlimited.

Warmzone includes free installation training as well as technical support and complete system design and layout services. We’re available to your electrician and installers throughout the installation process. Warmzone takes pride in leading the way when it comes to customer service.

Start the year off by learning a little more about radiant heat. Call a friendly Warmzone representative today to discuss your project and the many options that are available. In addition to offering industry-leading snow melting systems, Warmzone also carries the largest selection of radiant floor heating (and roof de-icing) solutions on the market. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Call 888.488.9276 today.

HOTNEWS

Heating a Driveway with Limited Power

Zoning Your Driveway Heating System

Radiant heat is one of the most efficient ways to keep any driveway or walkway free of hazardous snow and ice. When considering installing a heated driveway, many wonder if they have enough power to run the radiant heat system. For most situations in homes or businesses, the answer is yes, as most have more than enough amperage to operate an average sized radiant heating system. However, in the cases where amperage may be lower, or the driveway larger, Warmzone has options to ensure that a radiant heat snow melting system can still be installed, and effectively provide the snow melting performance you expect, safely and efficiently.

Heated driveway installation
Zoning is often used to heat large areas that typically require more power.

The first step when purchasing a snow melting system is deciding the area needs to be heated. At Warmzone, professional design services are included top help you. Warmzone representatives can even assist you in determining the square footage of the area you want heated. By using a special software program, they can view your property and help you determine an estimate of the square footage of your driveway. After determining your snow melting needs and available budget, Warmzone designers will design the system that best meets your needs. Each snow melting system is designed according to ASHRAE standards, taking into account the average winter weather conditions in your area. Your system layout will not only include the ideal layout of the system components, but also include all the electrical information necessary for your electrician, such as proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, as well as the power requirements of the system.

If you want to get an idea of available amperage in your home, power can be checked by accessing your home’s main breakers. In most homes, there is either a 100 amp, or 200 amp breaker panel. When considering a snow melting system, there are few basic guidelines that homeowners should consider when checking the power in their home. One 30-amp breaker typically supplies enough power to heat a 170-square-foot area. That means to heat a driveway that is 350 square-feet, two 30-amp (or one 60-amp) breakers will be needed. If you have questions, it is always best to have a qualified electrician come out and asses the power at your home.

If the power requirements at your home or business are insufficient, you may still be able to enjoy the benefits of a snow melting system when working with Warmzone. The heated driveway can be designed to use a technique called “zoning”. The principle behind zoning is simple: the area to be heated is divided into zones, and power is sent to each zone separately. For example, if you only had two 30-amp breakers available but wanted to heat your driveway, front sidewalk and parking apron, the snow melting system could be divided into 3 zones. Power would be used to heat each zone separately, thereby optimizing the available power. Warmzone now offers a new sequencer that allows the system to “bounce” power from zone to zone, allowing a large area to be heated almost simultaneously. While this technique requires slightly more time to heat the entire area, it also ensures that snow is melted from the driveway, sidewalk and apron.

Old zoning systems relied on zones being heated separately in their entirety. Separate sensors were installed in each zone to enhance the efficiency of the system, and each zone was prioritized. After zone 1 was cleared, zone 2 would then heat, and then zone 3 would heat, and so on. However, the new sequencer eliminates the need of melting snow from one zone before moving on to melt snow from the next zone. “Pulsing” the power from one zone to another makes the system much more efficient – and gives homeowners with minimal power the opportunity to heat larger areas.

Snow melting system divided into zones for power usage
When faced with a limited power supply, snow melting systems can be installed to heat by zones, shown in this illustration.

Snow melting systems from Warmzone are designed for optimum efficiency and cost-effective operation. Installing a radiant snow melting system is a great investment in your home, and systems typically clear the area during a storm at a cost less than hiring a snow removal service to clear your driveways and walkways. An automated snow melting system can help to ensure safe access to your home or business for years to come.

Zoning is a great way to make your dreams for a safe, efficient snow melting a reality – even when dealing with low amperage. Warmzone’s design professionals will help create the ideal system to operate within the power requirements of your home or business. If you have questions and would like to discuss the options that are available, contact Warmzone today at 888.488.9276.

HOTNEWS

Radiant Heated Driveway Systems

The weather is warming up and so is the construction season. Perhaps now is the time to install a heated driveway or roof deicing system so you’re prepared for next winter.

Radiant heated driveways provide fully automated, maintenance free snow removal for your driveway and/or sidewalks. The systems are reliable and easy to customize to best suit your exact layout and snow melting needs.

Heated driveway in concrete

How Heated Driveways Work

Heated driveways rely on a network of heat cables embedded in the driveway medium. The cable can be installed to heat concrete, asphalt or paver driveways. (Hydronic systems utilize Pex tubing, whereby specially treated hot water is circulated.) A snow sensor can be installed in the surface of the driveway or mounted near the roof. It must remain exposed to the elements. The sensor detects temperature as well as precipitation, so when weather conditions dictate, the sensor will signal the system controller and then power is sent to the heating cable, warming the driveway.

Installing a Heated Driveway

Heated driveway systems are not difficult to install. Warmzone provides complete system design and layout services to facilitate quick, proper installation. This document also includes all the information necessary for the electrician, such as proper materials, load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, etc.

The heat cable is laid out according to the design provided. For concrete heated driveways, lay out the cable and then use zip ties to secure it to the re-mesh. (The cable should remain within 2 inches of the surface.) Concrete is then poured over the secured cable. The contactor panel (or controller) is typically mounted on a wall in the garage. Warmzone offers contactor panels with or without GFCI protection.

Electric heated driveways feature fast response times. The driveway is quickly heated after the sensor detects the first snowflake, preventing any snow buildup. Another advantage of electric driveway heating systems is that they are maintenance free and very reliable. Unlike hydronic systems that require a special mechanical room for the boiler, manifold and pumps, electric systems only require a small space on the wall of the garage for the controller or contactor panel.

Heated paver sidewalk

Radiant heat systems are also remarkably efficient. There’s virtually no heat loss, as 99 percent of the energy goes directly to melting the snow. The efficiency of radiant heat also makes it a popular choice for heating homes.

And the systems are fully automated. The snow sensor, also referred to as an activation device, detects the weather conditions (both temperature and precipitation). Once snow starts to fall the sensor signals the contactor panel and power is sent to the embedded heat cable. The driveway is warmed and snow is prevented from accumulating.

In addition to the beneficial features of a radiant heated driveway, Warmzone also includes complete customer support with each system. In addition to the professional system design, Warmzone also offers free installation training. This is a valuable service that helps to ensure the proper installation of the system. Free installation support is also provided. If your installer encounters any issues during the installation, he/she can call Warmzone to receive support. We are committed to providing the best products and best support services in the industry.

For more information about our radiant heat systems, call 888.488.9276 today.

HOTNEWS

October HotNews – What Makes Warmzone Snow Melting Systems Better than Others?

A Look Behind the Making of a Great Snow Melting System

Radiant heat snow melting systems are easy to customize and can be installed in just about any time of medium and application. Snowmelt systems are versatile and can be custom designed to heat driveways, loading docks, ramps, bridges, steps and more.

But did you know that Warmzone custom designs your snow melting system according to a wide range of variables, including the specific weather trends in your region? That’s right; the design process goes way beyond the basics of square footage, available power and budget.

Your heated driveway is carefully tailored to provide the best and most cost-effective snow melting results according to the typical weather conditions in your area. Some of the factors considered when designing a system include the average winter temperature, average annual snowfall, project application, layout demands, and the medium used (i.e., concrete, asphalt, pavers). Just like the snowflakes they melt, each heated driveway system is unique. Despite having the same general layout, a snow melting system at the top of a ski resort is going to differ from a heated driveway down in the city.

Heated paver walkways at outdoor mall

After the snow melting components have been selected and the system has been carefully designed, the next step is to make that design come to life with a proper installation. NOTE: It’s important to understand that no matter how brilliant the system design may be, the performance of the system hinges on the correct execution of every aspect of the installation.

Knowing that the proper installation of these systems is so important, Warmzone provides free installation training and installation support services. We stand by our customers throughout the installation process to help ensure that the system is properly installed.

Prior to the installation training, it’s helpful for installers to take advantage of the information available on our website. In addition to a wealth of online product documentation and illustrations, Warmzone hosts a vast resource of instructional videos. This valuable resource can help installers gain a better understanding of the systems, how they are installed, and how they function.

Next, the installer should sign up for training. Warmzone’s free installation training courses can be scheduled through our website. Installers can sign up for a time that is convenient for them and then receive personal instructions via WebEx. Installers are also welcome to attend free training courses at our Salt Lake City facility. The course takes less than an hour and the attendee can ask as many questions as he/she sees fit.

When laying out the heat cable for the system, it is vital to maintain proper spacing so that the cables never touch or cross over each other. Typical spacing for a heated driveway is either 4 or 3 inches (37 or 50 watts per square foot). For concrete pours the cable should be secured to the remesh using zip ties. Mesh-Up plastic supports should be placed under the remesh to keep the cable elevated in the cement slab. Ideally, the heat cable should be about 2 inches from the surface of the driveway or area to be heated. The cable’s power lead is then run to the control panel. (The splice must remain embedded in the concrete.) Because electric snow melting systems feature no moving parts, they require no maintenance.

Snow sensors for automated snow melting system
An aerial-mount and a ground-mount snow sensor activation device.

When snow is detected the sensor signals the controller which then sends power to the heating cable, warming the driveway surface. After the storm, the “afterrun” function keeps the system running for a short period to dry the surface so that no ice forms.

Radiant snow melting systems have proven to reliably and efficiently provide snow melting around the clock. Owners can rest easy, knowing that the snow melting system is keeping the driveway and/or walks free of snow and Ice.

For more information about Warmzone snow melting, roof deicing or floor heating systems, contact a radiant heat expert today at 888.488.9276.

Radiant Heat News

Does a Heated Driveway Work Through the Night?

Snow Sensors Automatically Detect Conditions

Driveway heating is designed to make your life easier. Many people wonder how much work a heated driveway requires once it is installed. Having to babysit the system would be considered a huge deterrent to purchasing a heated driveway, thus great effort has gone into streamlining the systems so they are fully automated and maintenance free. The automatic snow sensor that comes with every heated driveway is designed to set-up initially and then only touch it when small adjustments are needed throughout the season. The snow sensor does all the work of detecting snow and when to turn the heated driveway system on and off.

Going on vacation or even going to bed at night are usually the best times for snow to have time to accumulate. Winter storms don’t usually come at the most convenient times so planning around them is tough to do. With an automated snow melting system you really can leave it alone and let the heated driveway do all the heavy lifting. The driveway heating cables work when needed to keep the surface of your drive warm enough that snow and ice can’t stick for very long. You can enjoy a long, peaceful night of sleep as well as the knowledge that your driveway will be clear in the morning, no matter how deep the neighbor’s is.

Radiant Heat News

Radiant Heat is the Heartbeat of a Heated Driveways

The Inner Workings of Driveway Heating

Anything worth anything has a heartbeat or at least something equivalent that breathes life and value into it. A heated driveway operates almost as seamlessly as our breathing. Radiant heat cables are at the center of that heating phenomenon and act like the all-important heartbeat, keeping your driveway clear of unwanted snow every time it snows. In fact your own heartbeat can stay calm all winter long, thanks to the technology of radiant heat cables. They do all the work, so you don’t have too.

Asphalt driveway with heated tire tracks

Electric radiant heated driveways are fully automated snow melting systems. ClearZone radiant heat cables are extremely durable and versatile. The heat cable can be safely installed in new concrete, under pavers, and even in hot asphalt applications. And the radiant systems can be easily customized to match your specific snow removal requirements.

The heat cables lay seamlessly beneath the surface just as your heart beats just beneath your chest, keeping the whole system running properly. Activated by a high-tech snow sensor that detects precipitation and temperatures, the sensor activates the driveway heating system only when needed. In addition to the system’s automated capabilities, it also features manual operation mode, should you choose.

We are hardly aware of the all-important work our own hearts do, but without them we wouldn’t be walking around. Radiant heat is just as important to your heated driveway and works to make your life better, just below the surface.

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

The Polar Vortex of 2014 Wreaks Havoc; Surge of Interest in Radiant Heat

Now is the Ideal Time to Install Radiant Heat

Deadly cold temperatures and heavy snow crippled much of the country during the winter of 2014, due in large part to a weather phenomenon known as the polar vortex. These freezing cyclones are typically restricted to the earth’s geographical poles, but in 2014, the arctic storms plunged so far south that it affected most of the states in the U.S., including Florida.

If you were one of many who got caught in the infamous storms of 2014, you no doubt spent much time and money shoveling snow and buying 50-pound bags of salt in an effort to cope with the brutal conditions. But with record low temperatures, it was almost impossible to keep walks and driveways clear of ice and snow – unless you had a radiant heated driveway system installed.

Treacherous snowy driveway in need of radiant heat

Recent winters seem to be dumping record snowfalls and unusually cold temperatures, and homeowners in the Northeast who are seeing nothing but white from November through March are now thinking seriously about radiant heat. Homeowners are reconsidering clearing their walks and driveway of snow during sub-zero degree temperatures. This is especially true in light of the recent life-threatening temperatures and wind chill. In the Chicago area (temporarily renamed by locals as “Chiberia”), four people died over one weekend while shoveling snow, and 37 people in Ohio were rushed to the emergency room because of cold weather related problems.

Naturally, homeowners aren’t too thrilled about the prospects of risking life and limb shoveling and salting snow every year. Fortunately, there is some good news. Radiant heat is an affordable option for those who are looking to ditch their shovels. And for all of you who are considering installing a radiant snow melting system, you’ll be glad to know that early spring is the ideal time to save on a heated driveway system from Warmzone.

And you simply won’t find a more professional, helpful staff than those at Warmzone. Unlike many radiant heat providers, Warmzone custom designs each system and includes personal installation support for your installer. Warmzone can even recommend experienced installers in your area.

With record snow falls occurring across the country, installing an efficient, fully automated heated driveway just makes sense. Forget about the cost for hiring a snow removal service, buying salt, or devoting your own time and labor. The next time Mother Nature throws an icy temper tantrum in your neck of the woods, you can enjoy the beauty of the white countryside as well as a clear, ice-free driveway. Just how much will this cost, you ask? The answer may surprise you.

– Now is the Time to Install (Continued below)

– Radiant Heat Conquers the Polar Vortex (Part II)

Don’t let the initial cost of installing a snow melting system intimidate you. Warmzone has a variety of radiant heat solutions and can custom design your system so that it meets your heating needs AND your budget. For manual snow removal, consider the cost of running and maintaining your snow blower, purchasing salt, or paying a snow removal service. For climates particularly accustomed to lots of snow, a heated driveway installation could likely pay for itself in no time.

Heated driveway on incline with heated tire tracks

At this point, it’s predictable that most of us are ready to put down the shovel and gear up for warm weather, lawn care and similar home improvement projects. Early spring is the best time to install radiant heat in your driveway, walkway or even on your roof. The demand is typically lower, so you may be able to get discounts that you normally wouldn’t during peak season. Be savvy and take advantage of the off season to beat the rush and get the best prices for a radiant heated driveway this spring.

Still not convinced on the benefits of radiant heat? Read what some Warmzone customers are saying. Join the legions of happy Warmzone customers like this one (below), who is enjoying the benefits of a heated driveway from the comfort of his own living room:

The first show fall this winter was the test and the driveway has been ice/snow free all winter! The option to manually turn on the heat system has not been needed since the sensor works so well. My wife and I are very pleased with the results and feel much safer walking outside during the winter now!

–Dan, heated driveway owner

One of the greatest benefits of radiant heated driveways is that they are automated and maintenance free. Think of it as the “set it and forget it” phenomenon. Because heated driveways are fully-automated systems, there’s no guess work in when to turn them on, off or how long it will take to remove the snow. With the help of outdoor sensors, your radiant heated driveway system is automatically programmed to sense the changes in precipitation and temperature that indicate snow fall, then turn off when a snow event is over. You get dry, clear pavement efficiently and affordably, without lifting a shovel.

Here’s another construction professional and first-time installer who said this about his experience working with Warmzone:

Thanks for supplying my customer with exactly what they needed. Living in multiple locations, the automated concrete heating system you provided was the perfect match for my customers in Idaho. Being new to this type of installation, I expected things to be a little more complicated. A few phone calls after receiving the product within days made the job simple to install. I would have to say that customer service with your company was by far second to none. I look forward to doing business with you in the future and referring you on to other homeowners with snow melting needs.

–Cody, Independent Contractor

Cody brings up another good point, and that is the wide selection of radiant heat installation options and the unmatched customer support you have with Warmzone. When you do business with Warmzone you’ll have live phone support from professionals with years of experience in radiant heat installations. They are willing to partner with you every step of the way to find you the best possible system for your performance expectations and budgetary concerns. They can even help you find an experienced installer in your area.

Trade in your shovel and salt for an easier snow removal solution. Now is the best time to pick up the phone and call Warmzone (888.488.9276) to discuss your plans for stress free winters with a radiant heated driveway.