A Clear Path Home: Safe, Snow-Free Stairs in Evanston, IL

Evanston, IL
Front porch and steps with snow melting
Size: 86 sq.ft. Voltage: 240V Wattage: 4000 W Amps: 16 A Flooring: Concrete (new) Cost/hr *: $0.64

Facing harsh Illinois winters, the owner of this Evanston home wanted a permanent solution to the constant, back-breaking chore of shoveling and de-icing their front porch and steps. JD Wieland Incorporated installed a WarmlyYours electric snow melting system directly into the new concrete pour. This automated system provides reliable safety and convenience, eliminating ice and snow buildup and adding significant value and peace of mind.


Project Details

  • Location: Evanston, Illinois
  • Heated Space Type: Front Porch and Stairs
  • Square Footage: 86 sq. ft.
  • Watts, Volts, Amps: 4001W, 240V, 16.67A
  • Operating Cost Per Hour: $0.68 per hour of operation
    • Cost per 4-Hour Snow Event: ~$2.72
    • Cost per Month (Example): ~$27.20 (based on 10 snow days/month, 4 hours of use per day)
  • Products Used:
    • Snow Melt Cable
    • Value Snow and Ice Melt Control
    • Small Relay Panel
    • Outdoor Junction Box
    • Snow Melt Plaque


The Story: A Permanent Solution to Icy Steps

For homeowners in the Chicagoland area, winter means a constant battle against snow and ice, especially on critical surfaces like front steps and walkways. The daily risk of slips and falls, combined with the hassle of shoveling in the cold, led this Evanston resident to seek a modern, automated solution for their new front porch. The goal was simple: create a safe, clear, and welcoming entrance to their home, regardless of the weather.

Working with the skilled team at JD Wieland Incorporated, a WarmlyYours snow melting system was chosen for its reliability and efficiency. During the construction of the new concrete front stoop and steps, 86 square feet were covered with our durable Snow Melt Cable. The cable was laid at a precise 3.0-inch spacing to ensure consistent and powerful heating performance, capable of melting snow and preventing ice from ever forming.

The system is fully automated thanks to the Value Snow and Ice Melt Control, which uses sensors to detect both low temperatures and the presence of moisture. It activates only when needed, ensuring maximum efficiency. Now, the homeowner enjoys the ultimate winter convenience. There's no more waking up early to shovel, no more corrosive salts damaging the new concrete, and most importantly, no more worrying about the safety of family and visitors. This radiant heating solution provides effortless safety and enhances the home’s curb appeal all winter long.


Featured Products

  • Snow Melt Cable (WHCA-240-0342) This high-performance cable is designed specifically for installation in concrete, asphalt, or mortar under pavers. Its durability and powerful output make it the perfect solution for keeping walkways, stairs, and driveways safe and clear.
  • Value Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCV-DUAL) The intelligent heart of the system, this control automatically activates the heating cables when it detects both cold temperatures and moisture. This ensures the system only runs when necessary, saving energy while providing 24/7 protection.
  • Relay Panel, Junction Box, & Plaque These essential accessories ensure a safe, code-compliant, and professional installation. The relay panel manages the system's power, while the weatherproof junction box protects electrical connections and the NEC-required plaque notifies others that the area is heated.

* This powerful 86 sq. ft. snow melting system costs just about $0.64 per hour to operate while active. That means clearing the porch and stairs during a 4-hour snowstorm costs less than $3.00, providing priceless safety and convenience for a minimal expense.

Project Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions


The operating cost depends on local electricity rates and system size. For this 86 sq. ft. porch and stair project in Illinois, the cost is approximately $0.68 per hour of active operation. It only runs when conditions are snowy or icy, making it an affordable and energy-efficient safety solution.
While it's most common to install snow melting cables during a new concrete pour, retrofitting is possible. Grooves can be cut into existing concrete or asphalt for the cable, which are then sealed. Alternatively, the system can be installed in a new 1.5" - 2" layer of concrete poured over the existing surface.
The system uses an advanced controller connected to sensors that detect both temperature and moisture. The system will only activate when the temperature is below a set point (typically 38°F) and moisture is detected. Once the surface is clear and dry, it automatically shuts off to conserve energy.
Yes, in many ways. An electric snow melting system is an automated, proactive solution that prevents ice from forming in the first place. It operates cleanly without the need for manual labor and avoids the use of corrosive salts and chemicals, which can damage concrete, masonry, and surrounding landscaping over time.

Quotes

These quotes are linked to this showcase and include the products used in this project or recommended for a similar-sized project.

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