Where can Snow Melting Systems be Installed?
Snow melting systems are designed to be installed under concrete, asphalt, pavers, stone, and tile. They are perfect for high traffic areas such as driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, stairs, and ramps but can be used in many other applications.
Best Time for Installation
When installing a snow melting system under asphalt or concrete, it must be completed when the temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If concrete is poured below this temperature, the chemical reaction that strengthens the concrete slows down resulting in weaker concrete. If asphalt is installed below this temperature, it will harden faster giving the paving crews less time to work with the asphalt. As you can imagine, it is most practical to install one of these systems prior to the concrete, asphalt, or stone being laid down since it will save you time on demolition.
Snow Melting System Types
NeverFreeze® snow melting systems are available in mat form or loose cable. Although they both perform the same basic function, the main difference lies in their method of installation.
Snow Melting Mats
NeverFreeze® snow melting mats are available in 24- and 36-inch widths and can heat up to a 160 square foot area on a single mat. Using several mats allows you to expand the coverage area. If you simply want to clear a path for your tires to get in and out of your driveway, you can install thinner mats ranging from 14 to 18 inches wide.
The advantage that mats offer over loose cable is their ease of installation. Since the mats come with factory pre-spaced cables, it saves time on measuring and cuts down on the amount of securement points to the ground. The mats do also have a degree of flexibility to accommodate differently shaped rooms due to their cut and turn feature. The mats (not cables) can be cut and rotated to fit the area you wish to heat. Since the spacing of the cables are fixed on the mat, you cannot adjust their spacing. For this reason, mats with 4 and 5 inch spacing are available to provide options on the amount of heat distributed per square foot.
Snow Melting Cable
NeverFreeze® snow melting cable is usually preferable when heating large spaces with long runs. Due to the nature of loose cable, it offers a more flexible installation accommodating spaces of all shapes and sizes. There are also more options when it comes to spacing, which as previously mentioned will change the heat distribution density. We recommend installing our cable with either 3, 4, or 5 inch spacing to effectively melt the snow. Lastly, some homeowners opt for the cable because this system has a lower price point than that of the mats. NeverFreeze cables are optimized to deliver the same heat output while providing 30% more coverage than competing snow melting cables. Less cable translates to a lower project cost and fewer cable securement points resulting in an easier installation.
Conclusion
Snow melting systems can be installed under a variety of outdoor surfaces but are most commonly found under concrete or asphalt. They are great for areas that receive a heavy amount of foot traffic such as driveways and walkways. If installing a snow melting system under concrete or asphalt, make sure to do so when the temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow melting systems come in the form of mats or loose cable each offering their own distinct benefits. If you are considering cutting snow removal out of your life, give us a call at 800-308-8057 and speak to member of our U.S. based support team. You can also visit our Resources Center to read similar articles like “Save Money with Heating Cable for Gutters and Downspouts“.
Why ThermoSoft’s Snow Melting Mats are the Answer For You
Be proactive. Avoid slips, falls, back-breaking shoveling, and stop overpaying for expensive plowing service.
Benefits of NeverFreeze® Snow Melting Mats
- Perfect for stairways, walkways, driveways, parking lots and more.
- For usage in both commercial and residential environments.
- Fast plug and play set-up.
- Durable construction to withstand heavy traffic and extreme temperatures.
- Melt up to 2.5” of snow per hour.
ThemoSoft never compromises on your comfort or safety, so why would you?
Invest in your safety and your peace of mind by choosing the most advanced energy-efficient, safe, and reliable radiant heat products for snow melting and more. Contact our experts today to learn more!
Tell us about your project and let our experts help you. Our team of Radiant Experts is ready to help! We can help find the right radiant heat product for any project from indoors to the outdoors. Just tell us a little about yourself and your project to get started.
Contact an Expert 1-800-308-8057
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Start enjoying winter with NeverFreeze snow melting cable!
Easy installation for driveways, walkways, and patios for a hassle-free solution to your winter woes. Cables can be spaced from 3-5 inches apart for even heat distribution. Mix and match different lengths to fit your area!
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