Imagine that you're coming home from a long day at work, and the first thing you have to do is shovel the driveway. With a heated driveway, that wouldn't be a problem. In fact, you could probably spend that time relaxing in the warm comfort of your home and enjoying the company of your family instead of staying out in the cold cleaning your driveway from snow.
A heated driveway is more than just a convenience — it's an investment in your home and your family's safety. In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of a heated driveway and how it can make your life easier.
Introduction to Heated Driveways
A heated driveway is a great way to make your home more comfortable and efficient in the winter. It can help keep your driveway and sidewalks clear of snow and ice, making it easier to get around.
Plus, a heated driveway can help to reduce the amount of time you spend shoveling snow. It can also protect your driveway from erosion.
Benefits of a Heated Driveway
You might be wondering what benefits you could possibly get from a heated driveway.
Here are just a few:
- No more shoveling or scraping snow and ice off your driveway in the winter.
- Your driveway will be warm and toasty, so you can walk on it without worrying about slipping.
- It can help melt snow and ice on your driveway, so you won't have to worry about dangerous ice patches.
- It extends the lifetime of your driveway. When water freezes on a driveway, it can cause significant cracks. A heated one melts snow and ice before it can cause any damage.
- You avoid using salt or ice melt chemicals that can cause erosion on the driveway’s surface. Pets and nearby plants can also be harmed by those salts and chemicals.
All of these benefits can make your life a lot easier, especially during the winter. A heated driveway is a great investment for any homeowner.
Types of Heated Driveways
There are two main types of heated driveways: electric and hydronic.
One of the most common types of heated driveways is electric. This type uses electrical cables that power resistors that snake throughout your driveway and heat it. The cables are connected to a thermostat that controls when the driveway is heated and when it is not in use.
This type is typically the least expensive to install, however, it does require specific safety regulations for installation due to electricity being involved. Electrical systems usually require periodic checks because they occasionally need to be rewired with new wires or repaired due to wear and tear over time.
Hydronic heating is another popular option when installing a heated driveway. This type uses hot water running through plastic tubing located beneath your existing pavement or permeable pavers that are best for heated driveways because if the water is left on the surface it can freeze.
With a hydronic system, you may also be able to access energy savings by using natural gas, solar energy, or a heat pump instead of direct electricity as your heat source. This type is usually harder and more expensive to install than electric-heated driveways but they can save you money in the long run by using a cheaper source of energy than electricity.
Cost Considerations of Heated Driveways
You may be wondering about the cost of a heated driveway. It’s not a cheap investment to make, but there are measures you can take to lower the cost. First, you could go for a partial installation and use it only in areas that tend to ice over most often, or areas that you mostly want ice and snow free, like near the entrance or garage door.
Another thing that can help keep costs down is to have your contractor install heated floor mats instead of heating cables if you opt for an electric driveway system. Installing mats requires less time and labor, which can result in savings on your part. If you do decide to install heated floor mats, just make sure that they are compatible with your existing driveway material.
And finally, while you can opt for a DIY installation, it’s best to leave it up to professional contractors who understand the intricacies and safety implications of using heating wires. They will also know how best to set up climate controls and other details so you don’t have to worry about a thing — and that means peace of mind!
Installation Tips and Best Practices
Now that you know all the amazing benefits of having a heated driveway, let's go over some tips and best practices for installation.
First and foremost, it's important to have a professional install your heated driveway. Not only do they have the expertise and experience to make sure it’s installed correctly, but they'll also be able to provide advice on any additional materials or products that you might need. They can also help you decide which type of system is right for your driveway.
Speaking of driveway systems, the two most popular are electric systems, which are known for their quietness and ease of installation, and hydronic systems, which can use natural gas, propane, or any other form of energy to heat the driveway. Whichever type you choose will depend on your budget and what services are available in your area.
Once your heated driveway is installed, it’s important to make sure that its wires or piping aren't disturbed during any subsequent landscaping you do in the area. Additionally, always ensure that any parts like thermostats or power sources are kept out of reach of children or pets to help prevent accidents.
Maintenance and Repairs of Heated Driveways
The maintenance and repairs for heated driveways are fairly simple, which makes them an attractive option for homeowners. The most important thing to keep an eye on is the power source, as any fluctuation in power can have a direct impact on the effectiveness of your system. It's also a good idea to check the wires and connections regularly, to ensure that all connections are tight and secure.
Another aspect to consider is snow and ice build-up. While heated driveways can effectively melt snow and ice as they are being formed, they cannot protect your driveway from ice that has already accumulated. If you find yourself dealing with heavy snowfalls or frequent icy patches it’s important to break these up regularly with a shovel or rake so your system can do its job more effectively.
With the help of some basic repairs, regular maintenance, and regular cleaning, your heated driveway should be able to last you many years!
Conclusion
A heated driveway is a great investment for homeowners. Not only does it keep your driveway and sidewalks clear of snow and ice, but it can also help to reduce the amount of salt used on your driveway.