pexing garage apron & sidewalk

[artieb]

Hi, we're getting ready to pour an apron on a garage and we learned through the harsh winter that having some form of heat would be in our benefit. Is there a rough rule of thumb of spacing pex? We're looking not to super heat it. I can supply information that would help, thanks, Artie

 

[Stuart in MN]

I've had a little (very little) experience with snow melt systems, it's the sort of thing that needs to be properly designed to work. It will depend on your area, the size of the walks, and other factors.

If you're serious about doing it you may also want to consider electric heat tracing, there are pros and cons for both systems. Tyco Thermal has some information on their website about their electric systems, including a calculator to compare electric and hydronic. It's expensive either way. Go here: http://www.pentairthermal.com/application/surface-snow-melting/commercial-and-housing-facilities/ and click on the Related Design Tools button at the bottom of the page.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... If ya go hydronic, it'll have to be an Antifreezed loop, or it'll freeze up,....