Driveways, paths and ramps
Snow-melting mats can be incorporated into suitable concrete, paving or asphalt constructions to help reduce snow and ice build-up when correctly designed and controlled.
ELECTRIC FROST-PROTECTION SOLUTIONS
Frost Protection for Driveways and Pipes
Protect vulnerable outdoor surfaces and pipework with a system designed for the exact application.
Start with the area at risk, then choose between surface snow-melting systems and pipe trace-heating solutions.
CHOOSE THE APPLICATION
What Needs Protecting?
Driveways and pipework use different cables, controls, installation methods and design calculations.
Driveway Frost Protection
Pipes and valves
Trace-heating cable helps protect suitable pipework from freezing. Cable type, length, pipe material, insulation and ambient conditions all affect the design.
PLAN BEFORE BUYING
Four Details Determine the System
Frost protection should be selected as an engineered system rather than by cable length alone.
Application
Define the surface, pipework or component that needs protection.
Construction
Confirm the surface build-up or the pipe material, diameter and insulation.
Conditions
Consider the design temperature, exposure and expected weather conditions.
Controls and supply
Plan sensing, control, electrical load and protective devices before installation.
TWO DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS
Choose the Area You Need to Protect
Outdoor surfaces and vulnerable pipes use different heating products, controls and installation methods.
Driveways and external surfaces
Purpose-designed heating beneath a compatible surface can help prevent snow and ice accumulating.
Pipes, valves and water systems
Trace heating is fitted to suitable pipework and insulation to protect vulnerable sections during cold weather.
TECHNICAL CHECK
Use a Complete, Compatible Design
The heating cable, controls, sensors, insulation and electrical supply must work together.
Automatic control
Correct sensing and control can operate the system when relevant frost or moisture conditions occur, rather than relying on manual switching.
Installation environment
Use only products approved for the intended location and covering material, and protect every cable from damage during construction.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frost-Protection Questions
Useful distinctions before choosing a product.
Can the same cable protect a driveway and a pipe?
No. Select a system designed and approved for the specific application and installation environment.
Does frost protection run continuously?
Operation depends on the chosen control strategy. Suitable sensors and controls can limit operation to the relevant conditions.
Can I size the system from area or pipe length alone?
No. The construction, heat loss, exposure, electrical load and control requirements also need to be considered.