heated driveways

The Basic idea is to install an enclosed, Glycol filled system. Creating loops of approx. 250-300ft.
as seen below. each loop will cover approx. 200 - 300 sqft.

The enclosed system will include:

1- heat source (hot water heater ie. electric, oil, wood)
2- circulating pump.
3- expansion tank
4- 2 or more Manifolds (to join all loops inlets and outlets)
5- Electrician (to install power) Plumber (to install heating system)
6- Miscellaneous items (plastic zip ties, fittings, pipe, etc...)

Hose must be secured to wire mesh, on close proximity. On the middle right of the picture, you can see where most of the loops converge into one area. At this point the hoses enter a pvc pipe and have been fed into the shed on far right. This is where the electric heating system and controls have been installed

Prepare all zones, and keep at equal lengths Fasten pipe to wire mesh with plastic zip ties. In our example we have already poured the exposed aggregate, and we've installed 3 loops which also include the front doorstep. Making a schematic drawing or some pictures that best represent the configuration of zones and location of pipes. This should then be filed away for future consideration or repair work that may be required. Also you will want to label your zones, some areas may require more heat then others.

Be careful when placing not to disturb pipes. Never drive anything other then a wheelbarrow over the pipes. Take great care not to tip up on a pipe. A small piece of plywood is a great help. Contrary to popular belief, we recommend not pulling the wire mesh up, as it is best to keep it at the bottom, This will help prevent damage when saw cutting expansion joints. Another option would be to use a double jointer, and cut joints in the fresh concrete. In this example we saw cut for a better finish.

Take care with finish and grades. Remember, This is a ice melt system. So it will be melting the snow, and the water must have a place to exit. Also making sure not to leave any low areas. In our example, there is plenty of slope. Be sure to preplan your grades prier to excavation.

Stamping is a nice option with exposed. Its not unlikely anyone spending the extra for ice melt, wants a nice job, be creative!

The Finished Job looks great, and with winter not far off, just in time! Now its a matter of getting used to using your system as efficiently as possible. Because it doesn't snow every day. the system can lay dormant. the use of glycol (anti freeze) is required. The overall cost of the system will depend on how elaborate of a heat source. and controls such as a snow sensor. This device can predict snow hours before based on humidity and temperature. Keep in mind controls can be as easy as a switch on the wall, turning on the circulating pump. I've seen other systems set up so the person could call if he wasn't home and turn it on through the alarm or internet. I guess the sky's the limit, Hope this gives you a ruff idea of what's involved, remember keep it simple ..........!

special thanks to Wolf Melzer