Driveway Heating for Luxury Apartments

The Goal

During the construction of the high-spec Westbrook House development in Ascot, Berkshire, property developer Millgate Homes needed a bespoke heated driveway snow melting system. The goal was to ensure safe, year-round access to the underground car park.

The driveway was steep and directly exposed to the elements. Because of this, snow and ice regularly created hazardous conditions. The developers wanted a fully automated system that would prevent ice build-up without salt or grit, which could damage the asphalt surface.

The project formed part of an exclusive luxury development next to Ascot Racecourse. It features 14 premium apartments and penthouses with private terraces, underground parking and elegant architectural details. The heated driveway added both safety and long-term value for residents.

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Our Solution

Through its subsidiary Heatmat, Heatcom Group supplied and oversaw the installation of a high-output 7 mm in-screed cable system to heat the ramp leading to the car park.

The team selected a loose cable configuration over heating mats. This allowed precise control of cable spacing and adaptable heat distribution across the sloped surface. The system delivered an impressive 270 W/m² output, ensuring efficient melting of snow and ice even under severe winter conditions.

To automate operation, installers fitted a ground-level sensor to monitor both temperature and moisture. The intelligent thermostat only activates when icy conditions are detected and switches off automatically once the surface is clear. As a result, the system delivers maximum energy efficiency and low running costs, projected at under £150 per year during a cold winter.

Because of the steep incline and powerful output, the meltwater stayed warm enough to keep drainage channels naturally ice-free. Therefore, no additional heating lines were needed.

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The Result

Once commissioned and calibrated to local conditions, the system delivered consistent, reliable performance. It keeps the entire driveway free of ice and snow without exception.

Residents now enjoy year-round safe access to the underground car park. In addition, Millgate Homes gained a sustainable, maintenance-free heating solution that enhances the property’s luxury standards and resale value.

Driveway-heating-for-luxury-apartments.pdf