SmartPlan™ Snow Melting Installation Plans

Yes, but it requires removing and replacing the surface. Snow melting systems must be embedded within the concrete, asphalt, or paver base, so retrofitting involves:

Retrofit Installation Process:

1. Remove existing surface – Saw-cut and excavate the area to be heated
2. Prepare base – Ensure proper compaction and drainage
3. Install heating system – Lay mats or cables according to SmartPlan™
4. Pour new surface – Concrete, asphalt, or paver installation
5. Electrical connection – Licensed electrician completes hookup

Cost-Effective Retrofit Scenarios:

• Resurfacing projects – If you're already replacing a deteriorated driveway
• Partial coverage – Heat only tire lanes or high-traffic walkways to reduce cost
• Phased installation – Start with critical areas (steps, ADA ramps) and expand later

Alternative: Surface-Mount Systems

For areas where excavation isn't feasible, we offer surface-mount heating mats for:

• Wooden decks and stairs
• Roof valleys and gutters
• Temporary or seasonal installations

Your SmartPlan™ will evaluate your existing surface and recommend the most practical installation approach based on your goals and budget.

Snow melting system installation requires concrete/masonry work and electrical expertise, so most projects involve professional contractors. However, the level of professional help needed depends on your project scope:

You'll Need a Licensed Electrician For:

• Running power from your electrical panel to the snow melting control panel
• Installing circuit breakers, contactors, and GFCI protection
• Connecting sensors and control systems
• Ensuring compliance with local electrical codes

You May Need a Concrete Contractor For:

• New concrete or asphalt pours (embedding heating elements)
• Ensuring proper drainage and slope
• Meeting expansion joint and reinforcement requirements

DIY-Friendly Aspects:

Experienced DIYers can handle laying out and securing the heating mats or cables before the pour, following the SmartPlan™ installation guide. However, the electrical hookup must be completed by a licensed electrician.

Your SmartPlan™ includes detailed instructions for both the installation crew and electrician, making it easy to coordinate between trades.

No, professional drawings are not required. We can work with:

• Hand-drawn sketches – A simple drawing with overall dimensions, showing drains, curbs, stairs, or landscaping features
• Photos of site plans – Snap a picture of any existing plans or blueprints you have
• Digital designs – Use our online quote builder to design coverage zones and compare mats vs. cables
• Rough measurements – Even basic dimensions help us create an accurate plan

As long as we can see your space layout and understand the dimensions, we can design a snow melting system that keeps it clear. Our engineers are experienced at working with all types of documentation, from napkin sketches to CAD files.

Getting your free SmartPlan™ is quick and easy. You have two convenient options:

Option 1: Upload Your Sketch (Most Popular)

1. Prepare your layout – Sketch your driveway, walkway, ramp, or loading dock with dimensions
2. Include key details – Mark drains, curbs, stairs, landscaping, or obstacles
3. Take a photo – Use your phone to capture the sketch or existing plans
4. Upload at warmlyyours.com/quote – Fill out the simple form and attach your image

Option 2: Use Our Online Quote Builder

1. Visit our quote builder
2. Design your coverage zones digitally using our interactive tool
3. Compare mats vs. cables and see instant material estimates
4. Submit directly for engineering review and detailed SmartPlan™

What Happens Next:

• Within 1 business day: Our engineering team reviews your project
• You receive: Complete SmartPlan™ PDF with installation layout, electrical diagram, and itemized quote
• Dedicated representative assigned: Your personal contact for questions, revisions, and ordering
• Free revisions: Adjust coverage or specifications as your project evolves

No obligation, no pressure—just expert guidance to help you make an informed decision about your snow melting project.

Typical turnaround is 1 business day. Once you submit your project sketch or use our online quote builder, our engineering team reviews your layout, maps heating zones, determines spacing, and plans power requirements.

For urgent projects or when weather is approaching, we can often expedite the process. Your dedicated representative will coordinate with our engineers to prioritize your SmartPlan™ if you have time-sensitive construction deadlines.

You'll receive your complete package via email as a single PDF containing your installation plan, electrical specs, and pricing breakdown—everything you need to mobilize your crew immediately.

Operating costs depend on several factors, but snow melting systems are designed to run only when needed, making them more economical than many homeowners expect:

Key Cost Factors:

• System size – Larger heated areas use more power
• Climate zone – Snowfall frequency and duration in your region
• Coverage type – Tire lanes vs. full-surface heating
• Control method – Automatic sensors vs. manual operation
• Local electricity rates – Typically $0.10-$0.20 per kWh

Typical Operating Costs:

For a standard 400 sq. ft. driveway with automatic snow sensors:

• Per snowfall event: $5-$15 (depending on duration and intensity)
• Seasonal average: $150-$400 for areas with moderate snowfall
• Heavy snow regions: $400-$800 per season

Automatic snow sensors ensure the system only runs when precipitation is detected and temperatures are below freezing, minimizing unnecessary operation. Many customers find the cost comparable to or less than seasonal snow removal services, with the added benefits of safety, convenience, and property protection.