Tag Archives: Snow melting systems

Radiant Snow Melting Systems (Part II)

Continued: Read Radiant Snow Melting Systems (Part I)

Heated Driveway, Calgary, Alberta Canada

When I’m outside, a lot of folks in my neighborhood stop and have conversations or ask questions about the heated driveway. I know that some think this would be extremely expensive to operate, but last month, even with all my Christmas lights on every night, I saw only a $150 increase in my electrical bill.

Dennis, a homeowner in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, appreciates the convenience and relatively low cost to install and maintain his heated driveway. “We only have two or three months of significant snow in Calgary,” says Dennis, “so it won’t break the bank – or my back (shoveling) – and delivery people don’t have to crawl up the slope in fear of slipping anymore!”

Snow melting system installed to heat outdoor area

When you consider the benefits of electric radiant heat under driveways, walkways and other common areas, whether you’re a business owner or a homeowner, it simply makes good “dollars and cents” to install a radiant heat snow melting solution. For just pennies on the dollar, you can anticipate and expect your driveways and sidewalks to be clear as the snow falls. How many of your neighbors can say that? And a clear driveway or walkway not only clears the path for foot traffic, it also minimizes possible consequences of improper or inadequate snow removal. One slip and fall not only compromises the safety and security of loved ones, employees and even customers. A heated driveway and/or sidewalk dramatically increases your liability as a home or business owner.

As they say, time is money, whether you’re on your way to work or waiting for your customers to arrive, so why wait for your snow removal service? You don’t have to play the same old game of beat the clock any longer–Warmzone electric radiant snow melting systems are designed to sense changes in moisture and temperature, changes that indicate impending snow. The system is alerted and the heating cable is activated before snow hits pavement, so your walkways, steps, sidewalks and driveways are safely cleared before your boots ever see the pavement. Considering the initial installation cost and overall operational costs (literally pennies on the dollar) of your electric radiant heated snow melting system over time, you’ll benefit far more in the long run from snow melting system that is faster, more dependable and even less damaging than the local crew you’ve been hiring and waiting on to clear your driveway or parking lot.

Heated ramp

What makes Warmzone radiant snow melting solutions so popular? Flexibility, for one. Warmzone’s ClearZone radiant heating cable is the strongest, most durable, effective heat cable on the market and can be purchased in pre-configured mats, or on the spool for more customized applications. It’s also safe and effective to use under just about any type of surface, including asphalt, concrete, tile, brick and more. Which is why you’ll find Warmzone snow melting solutions under a variety of surfaces including: city sidewalks, walkways and parking areas; outdoor steps and stairways; loading docks and platforms; even ramps and bridges.

Typically our competitors are a lot less flexible, offering “one-size-fits-all” snow melting systems, from products, to pricing to installation. Choosing Warmzone means you benefit from the largest selection of radiant heating systems. Warmzone is not limited by one manufacturer, system or solution. With a huge selection of products to choose from, plus the experts and the expertise to complete a project, we can design and execute the installation of the optimal radiant snow melting system for your situation. Warmzone’s professional designers will thoroughly evaluate your radiant heating system before you install it to create the optimal solution for you. You’ll know the electrical requirements, technical specifications and system performance expectations before one foot of heat cable is installed.

Our valuable service minimizes any “installation surprises” that you may otherwise encounter, which ultimately saves you time and money in the long run. So if you’re shopping around and evaluating your radiant heat options, make sure you compare product price, quality, experience and customer services. You’ll discover why Warmzone is the trusted radiant heat leader.

While it’s true that Warmzone radiant heated snow melting systems stand to save you a few bucks over traditional snow removal services, the real value comes with the benefits of having a fully-automated heated driveway that is dry and clear before you ever leave the house.

If you can conceive it, Warmzone can achieve it. Warmzone has the experts, and the expertise, to guide you through or execute almost any installation—regardless of the scope—while satisfying your requirements as well as your budget. We offer a comprehensive menu of residential and commercial radiant snow melting solutions, along with the engineering and design services to do the job, and do it well, from large commercial projects to small, custom jobs. Why not call us at 888-488-9276 for your next radiant heated snow melting project for a free consultation and the best solution to your snow removal needs.

                                Go back to Part I of Radiant Snow Melting Solutions

Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I)

Radiant Heated Driveways can be Installed in a Variety of Applications

Radiant heat snow melting systems can be designed, engineered and installed in any size, shape and type of driveway. From large parking lots to small driveways, steps or sidewalks, radiant snow melting systems can accommodate virtually all your snow melting needs. But the custom options don’t just stop there. You have a variety of options to choose from to fit your budget. You can heat your entire driveway area or just a strip down the middle, or perhaps just two 2-foot wide tire tracks. When you work with a trusted leader like Warmzone, your system will be designed and engineered so that it is the best customized radiant heat solution for your needs.

The ClearZone radiant heat system is one of the most proven snow melting systems on the market, which is why it’s not only a favorite among homeowners, but construction professionals as well. The heat cable can be installed in a variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, and under pavers.

Concrete Heated Driveways and Sidewalks – New Pour

Heated driveway in Denver

For years the ClearZone snow melting system has proven itself to be one of the most versatile and reliable radiant snow melting systems on the market. It is installed in numerous mediums, but concrete is the most common application for ClearZone heated driveways. The rugged heat cable is designed to withstand the stress of heavy concrete pours. During the installation, the ClearZone cable is laid out and then zip tied to the wire remesh. The concrete is then poured over the cable.

New Asphalt Construction Heated Driveways

Asphalt driveway with heated tire tracks

Hot asphalt can damage some lower quality heat cables, but ClearZone cable is designed to withstand both the extreme temperatures and stress (from the compression) of newly poured asphalt. The radiant heating cable is laid out on the base surface (usually compacted sand), and the asphalt is then hand shoveled on top of the cable and then compacted.

For asphalt applications, it is recommended (but not required) to install 1-inch rigid insulation underneath the base surface. The insulation can be installed underneath the base surface or it can be laid on top of the base surface and the snow melting cable can then be secured on top of the insulation.

Brick Paver Driveways – Installation

Large heated paver driveway

ClearZone radiant snow melting systems are the most effective systems for heating under pavers. Installing a radiant snow melting system under brick pavers is also one of the easiest radiant heat installation methods. The heating cable is laid out on the base surface and the pavers are installed as normal, directly over the cables. Because the ClearZone cable has been tested and approved for wet conditions, the cable can come in contact with moisture without its performance being affected.

Continued – Go to Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part II).

Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part II)

Repaving and Retrofitting Asphalt Driveway with Radiant Heat

Continued from Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I).

The ClearZone snow melting system is unique because it isn’t limited to new construction applications and can withstand the rigors of concrete pours and hot asphalt. If you have an existing asphalt driveway and intend to re-pave it, you can retrofit your driveway with a ClearZone snow melting system. The heat cable is secured to the existing asphalt with clips and nails and only needs to be embedded under just ½-inch of asphalt. The new asphalt is hand shoveled onto the cable and then compacted. ClearZone cable is simple to install and provides the best performance for heating asphalt driveways.

Fully Automated

The heat cable is wired to the master controller, which is usually mounted on a wall in the garage. An aerial or pavement mounted snow sensor is wired to the controller. When the sensor detects precipitation and the temperature is below a set point (usually 39°F.), it signals the controller, which then sends power to the heat cable to warm the driveway. While the system is fully automated, the controller also features manual override capability for times when you may need to melt a snow drift or ice that formed in a shady spot.

Heated concrete driveway for mountain lodge

In addition to the many different types of surfaces that the ClearZone snow melting system can be installed under, you have many custom configurations that you can choose from. Warmzone will work closely with you to keep within your budget while providing the optimum snow melting system for your needs. As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone will provide a detailed design of your snow melting system so that you know all the electrical and layout requirements prior to any installation. Warmzone also provides you with technical support during the installation.

Once installed, radiant snowmelt systems are virtually maintenance free, and in addition to helping preserve the quality of your concrete/asphalt driveway or sidewalks, it also eliminates the damage caused to surrounding grass and vegetation from salt and corrosive snow melting chemicals. With your radiant heat snow melting system, there’s no need to apply salt or harsh snow melting chemicals to your driveway. So enjoy those snowy mornings from the warmth of your living room and admire your clear driveway as you sip your hot coffee. The days of shoveling and salting are over.

When it comes to installing a snow melting system, it pays to work with the best. In addition to Warmzone’s competitive pricing, you’ll receive top-notch customer service. Call and talk to a radiant heat expert today (888.488.9276) to learn more about heated driveways and snow melting systems. You can also send Warmzone your project information and receive a free radiant heat quote. There’s no obligation.

Go back to Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I).

Winter in Philadelphia

Given Philadelphia’s typical winter weather, the city boasts an “army” of snow removal personnel and equipment. Commuters depend on this army to keep roads clear so they can travel to and from work, but homeowners also have the responsibility to do their share of snow removal.

The City Ordinances regarding snow removal in Philadelphia read:
(1) The owner, agent and tenants of any building or premises shall clear a path of not less than 36 inches in width on all sidewalks abutting the building or premises within 6 hours after the snow has ceased to fall. The path shall be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice. Where the width of any pavement measured from the property line to the curb is less than 3 feet, the path cleared may be only 12-inches in width. When the building in question is a multifamily dwelling the owner or his agent shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this Section. 160 Amended, Bill No. 100752 (approved January 5, 2011).

(2) Snow or ice removed from sidewalks, driveways, or other areas shall not be placed or piled in the street.

(3) Any person who violates this Section shall be subject to the provisions and penalties set forth in § 10-718 and § 10-719.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Philadelphia residents have been busy these past few winters. The recent record-setting winters have made it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

Snowstorm in downtown Philadelphia
A snowstorm descends on downtown Philadelphia.

During the blizzard of 2016, Philadelphia residents experienced the fourth largest snowstorm in the city’s history, receiving 22.4 inches of snow during a massive two-and-a-half-day storm. In fact, several parts of the country experienced record setting storms and snowfall for the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

But Philadelphia residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having some extra supplies and keeping the cupboards and refrigerator well stocked, some Pennsylvania residents are dumping the snow blower and shovels in favor of radiant heat.

Fully Automated Snow Melting Systems
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. Providing a safe environment not only enhances business, but reduces the chances of costly litigation as a result of personal injury.

In addition to the silent, maintenance-free operation of radiant heat, electric 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 the temperature is 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 ClearZone 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 snowmelt 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 snow melting systems include the heating cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These fully automated systems require no maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. In fact, much of the installation can be done by any ambitious homeowner, but wiring the system must be completed by a licensed electrician in order to keep the warranty valid.

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 proper materials, 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. A dedicated staff of experts is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions while installing the system, 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.

Consider the Unwanted Things, Like Snow

With a Heated Driveway, Unwanted Things Never have to be an Issue

Sure, there are plenty of things in life that are considered unwanted, such as warts, lima beans, mortgage payments, mosquitoes, and snow just to name a few. Snow definitely has some appeal to winter sport enthusiasts and Olympic skiers, but when it comes to accumulating snow on our driveways and walkways it quickly turns into an unwanted thing, joining the ranks of ingrown toenails and flea-infested dogs. It doesn’t have to be that way.

With a radiant heated driveway, snow is almost a non-issue for you. Going forward, if your home has a radiant heated driveway you will never dread winter again. You might even look forward to it after you’ve enjoyed the seasons leading up to it. Having a radiant heated driveway allows you to consider the possibility of enjoying a winter, a winter filled with buckets and buckets of fluffy white snow.

Heated driveways are not just for the rich and famous either. You can enjoy a heated driveway with minimal cash output if you do your homework, research the right snowmelt system for your driveway, and rely on professionals who know what they are doing. One of your best resources could be a Warmzone home heating expert who has the product knowledge and expertise to guide you through the initial unknown learning curve of installing a radiant heated driveway. Consider the possibilities.

New Yorkers Deal with Increasingly Harsh Winters

Coming off New York’s record setting winter storms of 2015-2016, New Yorkers are growing accustom to regular appearances of “monster snowstorms” and heavy snowfall. One such storm, the blizzard of January 22-23, 2016, produced over 27 inches of snow alone. Needless to say, city residents and building owners worked overtime to keep their driveways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice. And with New York City receiving over 50 inches of snow in each of the last three years, residents have learned to stock up on supplies and prepare for the rigors of snow removal.

But snow removal doesn’t have to be an endless cycle of grueling physical workouts with the snow shovel. Many home and business owners in New York City 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 New York City.

Apartment buildings in New York City after snowstorm
Brownstone apartment buildings in New York City after a significant snowstorm.

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.

The proven ClearZone electric snowmelt 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.

The morning after a massive winter storm in New York City.
New York City wakes up to a heavy blanket of snow and colossal snow drifts the morning of January 24, 2016.

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 de-icing and floor heating systems. Call 888.488.9276 to learn more.

Record Setting Storm Batters Baltimore

On January 22-23, Baltimore experienced the largest snowstorm on record. Snow totals reached 22-35 inches west, north, and northwest of the Beltway, and 18-24 inches inside the Beltway. Eleven eastern states declared a state of emergency in preparation of the impending blizzard, which affected approximately 103 million people and canceled more than 13,000 flights. Needless to say, the storm incapacitated much of the city, leaving commuters stranded and residents trapped. Even with Baltimore’s significant fleet of snowplows and snow removal vehicles, the city couldn’t keep up with massive storm.

Homeowners were essentially trapped in their neighborhoods and were hard pressed to comply with Baltimore County’s snow removal ordinances. According to Baltimore County Code of Ordinances “Roads, Bridges and Sidewalks, 18-3-107 Removal of Snow and Ice.”, sidewalks MUST be shoveled within 24 hours after a snow storm.

The morning after a massive winter storm.
The colossal storm of 2016 incapacitated several cities throughout the eastern United States.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Baltimore residents have been busy these past few winters. The recent record-setting winters have made it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

The storm of January of 2016 proved to be Baltimore’s fourth largest snowstorm in history, dumping 22.4 inches of snow on the city. And the storm left a wide path of icy destruction across several states. Much of the Eastern Seaboard experienced record breaking snowfall during the storm, as well as for the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

Even seasoned Baltimore residents are taking winter preparation a little more seriously after the trend of “monster” storms blanketing the area in recent years. In addition to having a few extra supplies on hand, some Maryland residents are turning to automated radiant heat systems to deal with the white deluge.

Warmzone radiant 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 safe and inviting 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 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 snowmelt 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 industry leading heat cable, activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These snowmelt 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 proper materials, load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and system performance expectations before any heat cable is installed.

Warmzone also includes valuable installation support services at no extra cost. The expert staff is available 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.

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.

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.

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.