In many places, winter is entwined with snowfall. The entire season is full of bright frozen crystals, which fall and cover the outside world in white. While this can be a thrilling sight, the layer of snow may not be as cherished when it’s on your driveway. Shoveling snow on your driveway all winter long can be a major inconvenience.
A heated driveway is a perfect way to overcome these troubles and get your driving and walking surface snow and ice-free. Here are five significant benefits of a heated driveway.
1. Increased home value
Snow and ice are usually a big concern for homeowners for several months of the year. Heavy snowfall can wreak havoc on your roof, causing serious damage to your home. Most homebuyers are allured to any feature that makes their lives easier. Therefore, installing a heated melting system on your driveway is a great way to increase your home’s value and get the best price for your property. If you are considering installing a radiant snow melting system, contact Heavenly Heat for tailored advice.
2. It’s safer to walk on
Failure to remove accumulated snow and ice from your driveway can result in serious or fatal injuries to passersby. Shoveling itself can also be dangerous due to slips and falls. You don’t want anyone to get hurt on your property, but it’s also a legal responsibility if you fail to properly clear out your sidewalks. Heated driveways prevent snow and ice accumulation, making them much safer to walk on. You don’t have to worry about passersby slipping or falling, which may also prevent you from legal liability.
3. Saves time and energy
Although it’s absolutely necessary, shoveling snow can be tiresome and time-consuming. Depending on the snowfall, digging out snow can take hours, and you might be required to return soon as it continues to get frosty. Shoveling snow can also put you at risk of cold exposure, fatigue, or muscular strains. A heated driveway eliminates the need to shovel snow manually during frigid mornings, saving you time and energy.
4. Long-term cost savings
Most concrete driveways are prone to spalling in cold weather climates with too much snowfall. Concrete is naturally porous and can allow water from melted snow to seep into any tiny crevice and refreeze. Over time, the spalling may lead to cracking in the cement.
A snow-melting system can extend the lifespan of your driveway, as driveway surfaces tend to last longer when they aren’t exposed to sub-zero temperatures. This can save you the trouble of getting your driveway repaved or re-stoned every 5-10 years. It can also have long-term cost-saving potential, especially if you have a huge driveway that requires frequent snow-removal services.
5. Lower environmental damage
De-icing thoroughly sometimes involves the use of chemicals such as ethylene chloride (ETC), which prevents ice formation. However, these chemicals may pollute your yard or the wider surrounding. For instance, deicing salts may harm aquatic species and kill plants through dehydration or burning. A heated driveway eliminates the use of such chemicals, as the heat radiation will do its work naturally.
Endnote
A heated driveway way can be a great way to add curb appeal, improve safety and, most importantly, increase convenience to your home. Consider installing a heated system to keep your driveway clean and free from snow and ice thro
