In the snowy landscapes of Colorado, where heavy snowfalls are common during winter, many homeowners are turning to hydronic heated driveways as a solution for keeping their driveways clear and safe. One of the key questions they face is whether these
systems can be retrofitted under existing driveways. The answer is yes, and Colorado Heated Driveways, a leading provider in Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, Parker, and Denver, offers expert retrofitting services that incorporate advanced hydronic heating
technology into existing driveways.
Understanding Hydronic Heated Driveways
Before delving into the retrofitting process, it’s essential to understand what a hydronic heated driveway entails. Unlike electric systems that use electric cables, a hydronic system circulates a mixture of water and antifreeze (glycol) through pipes laid beneath
the driveway’s surface. This mixture is heated in a boiler and then pumped through the pipes, effectively melting any snow or ice on the surface of the driveway.
The system consists of three main components:
1. **Boiler**: Heats the water-glycol mixture.
2. **Piping**: A network of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes that are durable and
designed to withstand harsh conditions.
3. **Pump**: Circulates the heated mixture throughout the system.
Retrofitting Process
Retrofitting a hydronic heating system into an existing driveway can be complex, but it is entirely feasible with proper planning and execution. Here’s how Colorado Heated Driveways approaches the retrofitting process:
1. **Initial Assessment**: The first step involves assessing the current condition of the
driveway and the underlying base. This assessment helps determine the feasibility of installing the hydronic system without compromising the integrity of the existing driveway.
2. **Design and Planning**: If retrofitting is viable, the next step is to design the layout of the piping system. This design process considers optimal pipe placement for efficient heat distribution and the architectural specifics of the driveway to ensure even melting.
3. **Excavation and Pipe Installation**: The retrofitting process requires precise excavation to install the pipes. Trenches are carefully dug in the existing driveway where the pipes will be laid. The depth and width of these trenches are critical to ensure that the pipes are well-protected and function effectively.
4. **Connecting to the Boiler**: Once the pipes are laid and securely in place, they are connected to the boiler. The location of the boiler is strategically chosen based on ease of access and operational efficiency.
5. **System Testing and Driveway Restoration**: After the pipes are connected, the system is filled with the glycol-water mixture and tested to ensure it operates correctly. Following successful testing, the trenches are filled, and the driveway surface is restored, which might involve repaving or resealing, depending on the driveway material.
6. **Final Inspection and Adjustments**: The last step is a thorough inspection to ensure everything is functioning as it should. Adjustments are made, if necessary, to optimize the system’s performance.
Benefits of Retrofitting
Choosing to retrofit a hydronic heated driveway system offers several advantages:
**Cost-Effectiveness**: Retrofitting is generally less expensive than installing a new heated driveway from scratch, especially if the existing driveway is in good condition.
**Increased Property Value**: Adding a hydronic heated driveway system can increase the property’s value, making it more attractive to potential buyers, especially in regions prone to heavy snowfall.
**Environmental and Safety Benefits**: Hydronic systems are efficient and use less energy compared to traditional snow removal methods. They also reduce the need for chemical deicers, which can be harmful to the environment.
Why Choose Colorado Heated Driveways?
Colorado Heated Driveways has extensive experience in both installing new hydronic heating systems and retrofitting them into existing driveways. Their expertise ensures that every retrofit project is handled with precision, from the initial assessment to the
final testing. Their commitment to using high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology makes them a trusted leader in the region.
Conclusion
Retrofitting a hydronic heated driveway system is a viable and beneficial option for many homeowners in Colorado. With the right expertise from Colorado Heated Driveways, you can transform your existing driveway into a reliable, efficient snow melting system that provides safety and convenience during the snowy months.