Why heated driveway is a growing trend in Canada

Interlocked Heated Driveway: The Latest Tech in Snow Melting

You won’t surprise anyone if you tell them about the interlocking driveway. But what about making it a bit more modern? A heated driveway isn’t something excessive. It is an absolute must-have, especially in such harsh weather conditions as in Canada. Despite the global warming problem that is reshaping winters all around the world, the Canadian climate remains quite humid and cold. The weather can drop below zero extremely fast, causing frost on the roads, which subsequently increases the risk of getting traumas.

Start From Scratch. What is Interlocking?

But first things first, let’s define interlocking pavers. These concrete or natural stone pieces form a “stone puzzle” that holds together thanks to mortar or polymeric sand. It sounds easy and not serious, yet interlocking is the most durable home renovation decision out there. It is perfect for areas with high foot or car traffic.

Interlocking pavers for heated driveways

Are there any more interlocking pavers benefits?

Of course, there are! And quite a lot, actually:

  • Thoughtful investment – with little to no maintenance and effortless repair, interlocking is a home reno project that will pay off in no time;
  • Increased curb appeal – interlocking is definitely something that catches the eye. With increased attractiveness, you can also increase your property resale value;
  • Design flexibility – anything you can imagine can be interlocked. From simple stamped concrete patterns like herringbone to intricate mosaic patterns picturing battle scenes. The possibilities are truly endless. It’s like Lego, but for construction workers;
  • Affordable home renovation – numerous materials and designs suit different budgets. EcoPro Home increases the quality and durability of our projects, not their price tag;
  •  Eco-friendly improvement – water quickly infiltrates the gaps between interlocking pavers. This is the best option for groundwater refill, which helps greenery grow and preserves the local environment. Even if this is a heated driveway, EcoPro landscaping experts will install a proper drainage system to meet ecological needs.

As you can see, interlocking pavers are one of the best materials for interlocking driveways in Vaughan or anywhere in Canada. They can be used along with electrical mats to create heated driveways, while on their own, they form a solid place to park your car. They will withstand daily shovelling and even salt and chemicals, but do you really want to waste your time on snow removal?

Heated Driveway Types

As with any other home improvement, numerous heated driveway variants appeared. And we aren’t talking about driveway design trends. It’s about heating systems inside. So, the most popular heated driveway types are:

Electrical Heated Driveway

The name speaks for itself. The default option. Just like a warm floor, but outside and for your car. Our team uses metal coils and panels to install an electrically heated driveway. We connect them to the nearest electrical panel or breaker, and voila! You can go even further and connect an electrical driveway to your smart house system to start melting snow without getting out of your bed. However, electrical systems do use a lot of power and require some time to heat and run. It is cheaper to install than other options and can be placed under any covering material.

We use warm floor, why not make heated driveway?

Glycol Heated Driveway

We require more time and effort to install a glycol-heated driveway. And even space since Glycol needs to be heated somehow. For that, our experts install propane or natural gas boilers in the garage or basement. Instead of heating electrical mats, we install a closed system of PVC tubes containing liquid Glycol. Unlike an electrically heated driveway, Glycol one heats up fast, uses less energy and can keep your driveway warm from the first snowflake to the heaviest storm. Its setup is definitely more expensive, but it will save you much more in the long run.

Glycol heated driveway

Final Thoughts

A heated driveway is an option for those who appreciate their time. It has numerous benefits, such as interlocking pavers, from completely eliminating the possibility of slipping in winter to making your home look richer and prettier in other seasons. Regardless of the driveway type you choose, the EcoPro Home team is always here to help. We provide free consultations and transparent estimates to help you choose the best option. We hope to see you among our happy clients soon!

Explore heated driveway benefits

Heated Driveway FAQ

  • Why install heated driveway?

    A heated driveway is a modern technology that melts snow for you. No more tiring shovelling or wasting money on salts and chemicals. Just contact us, choose the heating system, and enjoy your winter. 

  • Does heated driveway completely melts snow?

    Yes, of course! It may take some time for a system to heat up, especially if it's below zero outside. Yet, it will eliminate all snow and ice faster than you can with a shovel. You can definitely forget about slipping, too!

  • How do I choose between electrical and glycol heated driveways?

    The decision on a heated driveway type depends on several factors: 

    1. How big is your driveway? For bigger areas, you can choose glycol. It is more expensive, yet it heats up faster and wastes less energy. 
    2. Consider your design preferences. It's not always about how it looks but how it works. Choose materials with high thermal conductivity to get the most out of your electrical heated driveway.
    3. Don't forget about your budget. Glycol-heated driveways are more expensive to set up, but they are cheaper to use, while electrical heated driveways work vice versa.

    Our team helps you choose the best option for you — no pressure or foisting. Contact us, name your preferences, and get a free estimate.

Best low-maintenance plants in Canada guide by Eco Pro

How To Choose Low-Maintenance Plants in Canada

Who doesn’t enjoy the mesmerizing view of greenery and doesn’t love inhaling the delightful fragrance of flowers while having fun in the pool or relaxing on the yard sunbeds?

Despite all the comforts modern technologies are giving us, we are all still linked to our ancient ancestors, who lived close to nature. We love to observe butterflies dancing on the soft petals and hear the cheerful buzz of bees, don’t we?

The main reason numerous homeowners hesitate on the way to a flourishing yard is a lack of gardening knowledge. The excess of water, for example, is blocking oxygen supply and killing plants. A number of unexpected issues may arise when a novice takes the gardening business into his or her own hands.

But there is a solution. Plenty of homeowners favour perennials for easy handling. Low-maintenance plants Canada will bloom every year, making your outdoor space bright and welcoming.

Perennials add colour and some magical appeal to your exterior. Moreover, a well-planned garden helps you use your outdoor space wisely. Just wait and see how the evolution of your yard unfolds before your eyes.

Low-maintenance Plants in Canada

The perennials are easy-to-grow plants, but you have to know that some so-called perennial plants are actually short livers that self-sow. Each offspring shows the same beautiful appearance, and the homeowner confuses the new plant with its parent plant. Such perennials can look tired after a few years.

Let’s run through the top popular solutions for your garden.

Hostas

Prepare well-drained soil and shade areas for Hostas, which can boast eye-catching and large leaves. This perennial is a great addition to green hues in your exterior, as its leaves vary in colour.

With Hostas, you can avoid division, but the procedure benefits the plant’s health. The choice is rich and diverse, as there are over 70 species and a number of hybrids of this plant.

Peonies

These 2 to 4-foot-tall guys grow well in full sun, and they prefer generous moisture. Peonies bring luxury and a touch of sweetness.

These showy beauties won’t fade from your garden after a year or two. 

Actually, peonies bloom up to 40–50 years, but on average, they live about 10–15 years, which is also great for a plant.

Despite its vivid pink colour, Peony is a low-maintenance plant in Canada too

In addition, there is a Peony Society in Canada, and the Chinese know the plant as “the King of Flowers.” Well, calling peony popular is an understatement now. It is adored around the world. Will you go for soft hues, like white and blush, or more saturated shades, like pink and red?

Hellebores

For their rose-like blossoms, Hellebores are also known as Winter roses. You can see the first flowers in late winter. These plants favour shades and a great deal of water. Hellebores tolerate drought, though not for a very long time.

Evergreen foliage of Winter roses will stay in your garden for up to 10 years.

Echinacea

Echinacea, aka Coneflower, will please your eyes with its bloom through the whole summer and early fall. This plant handles drought, but water it properly for the first few months.

Advice: it is better to blend different hues to get a really colourful collage.

Echinacea is a cold-hardy plant. The flowers are not as harmless as they may seem, at least for your dog; don’t let your pet chew them, as they are not safe for digestion. The lifespan of a Coneflower is about 2–5 years.

Sedum

Sedum, or Stonecrop, feels great under the full sun. Going for a vacation? Just water these perennials generously, and you will see the same blooming beauty after your arrival back home. This succulent differs in type and lifespan.

Asters

With Asters, you get bright and vibrant colours. These flowers look like daisies and are connected to purity, love, and magic. The cultivation is rather easy: they stand drought and love moist or semi-moist soil. This plant will decorate your garden for up to 5 years.

Asters are great low maintenance plants in Canada

Heuchera

Heuchera, or Coral Bells, was used by Native Americans as a medical plant. These flowers feel great whether they are in the sun or shade. Coral bells definitely capture attention with their versatile leaf hues.

Daylilies

Try to take your eyes off Daylilies, as this fountain of colours looks absolutely stunning. Daylilies don’t need much; just water them generously. The total blooming time lasts up to 40 days.

Are you cooking? Take a glimpse into your garden – some species of Daylilies have edible flowers and could be added to a salad.

There is a mind-blowing growth rate of species, from 5 around 15 years ago to more than 150 nowadays. So, the choice of the best type is a real challenge for a modern gardener.

Bobo Hydrangea

Bobo Hydrangea looks whimsical and charming at the same time. This elegant beauty blankets the yard with soft white and lovely pink hues. The plant likes sunbathing and drinks whatever amount of soil water it gets.

Bobo is a reliable garden dweller, and you can expect it to bloom with whatever summer weather has thrown at this plant.

Keep in mind that some plants bloom in the early summer or late spring, and some show a splash of colours in the late summer or early fall. We can smartly neighbour them, so the whole picture looks elegant and balanced as soon as the blooming season starts.

The Best Areas to Plant Low-Maintenance Plants Canada

So, after admiring the plants’ flowers, you have chosen the perennials that match the image of an ideal garden in your head. Where to plant these green guys?

A swimming pool. Following the successful pool interlocking by our company, many homeowners are interested in decorating the bordering area with perennials. A flower parade that can be created along the periphery of the pool, gives this area a charming facelift.

Eco Pro performs the best swimming pool interlocking and decks

An interlocking driveway and interlocking walkway Aurora and across Canada. The lines of perennials will harmonize with the overall look of your exterior design, and flower beds can match the colour of your walkway pavers. You can always rely on our taste to design the family-friendly area in your yard.

An interlocked patio. We plant perennials on the patio’s borders. This green solution creates a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere.

As a result of the renovation, you get a vibrant oasis that lures you and your family to hang out outside during your leisure hours. It’s never too late to try something new, like adding stone groupings, fountains fitted with light, or wildlife-friendly ponds.

Summary

Your garden may become an ideal setting to write numerous stories about happy gatherings with your loved ones.

Our team of highly qualified experts at Eco Pro Home Services is ready to spark your imagination and make the most of whatever outside space you have. Low-maintenance plants in Canada can bring as many colours to your garden as you want.

There is value in being different; the refreshed exterior can be as unique as you want.

To be constantly charmed by the wonders of your gardens and chill out in a flower-filled paradise, it’s essential to keep your perennials watered and healthy. After a while, a homeowner gets an additional bonus; a friendly environment will welcome the pollinators.

Growing plants is a step toward preserving the ecosystem and expanding biodiversity in your living area.

We manage every project with great care, and it is of vital importance for us to understand the client’s needs and fulfill them. Our team delivers the expected results, making sure that your yard gets the finest solutions possible.

We are making optimal use of outdoor spaces where beauty meets functionality.

Low-Maintenance Plants Canada FAQ

  • Do you have professional equipment?

    We have all the necessary machinery.

  • Will you take my project if it’s not big?

    No matter how small or big, we can handle any project. Our work is aimed at the client's satisfaction with the final result.

  • Is your team experienced in doing pool landscaping?

    We have over 7 years of experience in landscape and garden design in Toronto and GTA.

  • Do you have a license?

    Yes, we are licensed and insured.

  • Do you offer any guarantees on your work?

    We offer a 5-year guarantee on our paver installation.

  • Can I get a free estimate?

    Yes, you can contact us, and we will answer all your questions.

  • Can I have a look at how your team works?

    Yes, we can arrange for you to visit a job site and watch the work in action. Take a look at our previous projects in our Gallery.

Top 2024 Design Trends for Driveway Interlocking

Top 2024 Design Trends for Driveway Interlocking

Did you know that 85% of your property’s appearance depends on how your driveway looks? Keeping up with the latest design trends for driveway interlocking, you can transform the look and feel of your home outdoors. 

From modern geometric patterns to timeless cobblestone layouts, staying current with these trends can elevate your property’s aesthetics and value. Whether you prefer a sleek contemporary style or a rustic charm, incorporating these design trends can make a striking difference in your driveway’s appearance.

2024 Driveway Interlocking Design Trends Overview

Innovative approaches to driveway design are reshaping the landscape in 2024. Homeowners are increasingly opting for modern patterns that offer a unique touch to their exteriors. From geometric shapes to intricate mosaics, driveways are becoming artistic focal points.

With sustainability at the forefront, experts are recommending eco-friendly materials for driveway interlocking. Permeable pavers, made from recycled materials, allow water to seep through, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental consciousness in design projects.

Rising trends

In 2024, the driveway design industry is witnessing a surge in demand for innovative concepts. One notable trend is the use of smart technology in driveway interlocking. Automated gates, motion-sensor lighting, and heated driveways are among the projects that are revolutionizing the way we interact with our outdoor spaces.

Minimalism is making a comeback in driveway design. Clean lines, neutral colours, and understated elegance define the trends of the year. This simplistic approach creates a sense of sophistication while maintaining a timeless appeal that complements various architectural styles.

Choosing Right Materials

To achieve a blend of aesthetics and functionality, it’s important to choose materials that not only look visually appealing but also serve their practical purpose. 

  • Concrete and grass — integrating grass or gravel within concrete pavers creates a seamless blend of natural elements with modern design. This combination softens the look of the driveway while adding a touch of greenery
  • Brick and cobblestone — pairing brick borders with cobblestone inserts offers a classic yet sophisticated appearance. The contrast between the two materials adds elegance and charm to the driveway
  • Stone and interlocking pavers — mixing natural stone with interlocking pavers provides a luxurious and upscale look. This combination adds texture and visual interest, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the driveway

If you lean towards a more rustic charm, cobblestone or brick pavers could be the perfect choice to infuse character into your driveway.

Popular material combinations

Combining different materials for driveway interlocking can create a unique and eye-catching design. Careful consideration should be given to how these materials complement each other in terms of colour, texture, and pattern. 

For instance, blending concrete pavers with natural stone accents can add visual interest and depth to your driveway. Similarly, incorporating contrasting materials like porcelain tiles with gravel inserts can result in a contemporary and innovative look that sets your driveway apart.

Impact on Driveway Appearance

The materials used in driveway interlocking play a significant role in determining the overall appearance of the space. Opting for high-quality, well-maintained materials can elevate the curb appeal of your property and make a lasting impression on visitors. 

Choosing materials that require minimal upkeep can save you time and effort in the long run while keeping your driveway looking pristine.

Climate Adaptability

Designing driveways that are resistant to a variety of weather conditions is the only way to survive winter. Heat, snow, ice, and water runoff can affect the longevity of a driveway. Choosing materials such as interlocking pavers helps to combat these problems.

Pros of using interlocking pavers:

  • Can withstand extreme temperatures
  • Resistant to cracking and shifting
  • Long service life
  • Do not require frequent repairs

Of course, there’s a negative side, such as the higher initial cost compared to traditional materials, but who cares when we talk about reliability?

Material selection

Selecting versatile materials is key for a durable driveway. Materials like concrete pavers offer durability and sustainability. They provide excellent traction, even in icy conditions, ensuring safety.

Style adaptation

Adapting driveway designs to different climates doesn’t mean compromising on style. Integrating drainage systems prevents water accumulation, enhancing ground balance. Incorporating sunlight exposure considerations ensures the driveway’s aesthetic appeal remains intact.

Cost-Effective Options

Homeowners seeking cost-effective ways to enhance their driveways can explore various options for interlocking designs. Opting for minimal-maintenance materials like concrete pavers or permeable interlocking concrete pavers can be a smart choice. These solutions offer durability and aesthetic appeal while being relatively affordable.

Investing in DIY interlocking kits is another advantageous approach for those looking to save on labour costs. These kits come with all the necessary materials and instructions for homeowners to install the interlocking design themselves, significantly cutting down on installation expenses.

Optimization Tips for Driveway Interlocking Design

To optimize costs without compromising quality, it’s crucial to plan the driveway layout efficiently. By incorporating simple yet elegant patterns using standard-sized pavers, homeowners can achieve a stylish look without overspending on custom designs.

Choosing locally sourced materials can also contribute to cost-effectiveness by reducing transportation expenses. Scheduling the construction during off-peak seasons when contractors may offer discounts can further help in saving money without compromising on the overall design quality.

Creative Solutions

For those looking to follow the latest design trends for driveway interlocking while staying within budget constraints, exploring alternative materials such as recycled pavers or natural stone can be a creative way to achieve a unique look at a lower cost. 

Mixing different types of pavers or incorporating green elements like grass or gravel into the design can add visual interest without breaking the bank.

Bold Lines and Patterns

Geometric patterns are key elements in modern driveway design trends. By incorporating geometric shapes like squares, rectangles, or triangles, a driveway can achieve a sleek and contemporary look. These decorative borders add a touch of sophistication to the overall design.

Visual impact

Integrating bold lines and patterns into design trends for driveway interlocking can create a visually striking effect. The use of herringbone or chevron layouts can add depth and dimension to the driveway surface. These accents boost the aesthetics and provide a sense of rhythm and movement.

Transformative features

If you choose bold patterns, a simple driveway can be turned into a site feature. These intricate patterns serve as functional walkways and help the overall appeal of the outdoor space. Incorporating stone borders and contrasting colours can highlight the character of the driveway and make it a focal point.

Pros: 

  • Increases visual appeal
  • Adds sophistication and elegance
  • Creates a memorable driveway experience.

Cons:

  • Requires professional installation
  • Maintenance can be more intensive compared to simpler designs
  • High cost of materials and labour

It looks like patterns for a driveway are hard to choose as they can transform the quality of your life. However, this approach requires significant cost and professionalism in implementation.

Mixed Materials Use

Combining different textures and colours in design trends for driveway interlocking creates visually striking designs. By mixing materials like concrete, stone, and brick, homeowners can achieve a unique and eye-catching aesthetic.

Achieving a visually appealing driveway through mixed materials involves selecting complementary textures and colours. Pairing rough stone with smooth concrete can create a dynamic look that enhances a property’s overall curb appeal. This approach allows for creative expression and personalization in driveway design.

  • Durability — combining different materials in driveway interlocking can enhance the overall strength and longevity of the surface. For example, using concrete as a base with interlocking pavers on top can create a durable and resilient driveway that withstands heavy traffic
  • Versatility — mixing materials offers a wide range of design possibilities, allowing homeowners to customize their driveways to suit their preferences. Whether aiming for a modern, rustic, or traditional look, the flexibility of mixed materials enables endless design options
  • Enhanced aesthetics — the visual appeal of driveways will be more interesting. The contrast between different textures and colours adds depth and character to the overall design, making the driveway a focal point of the property.

Eco-Friendly Pavers

When it comes to driveway interlocking, incorporating eco-friendly pavers is a sustainable choice. By opting for materials like permeable pavers or natural stone, you can reduce environmental impact. These concrete pavers are designed to allow water to seep through, minimizing runoff and helping recharge groundwater.

Environmental benefits

Using eco-friendly pavers in driveway landscaping offers various benefits. They help in reducing heat island effects by absorbing less heat compared to traditional concrete surfaces. permeable pavers aid in stormwater management by allowing rainwater to infiltrate the ground, preventing erosion and flooding.

Greener outdoor spaces

Beautiful driveway pavers made from sustainable materials contribute to creating greener outdoor spaces. The use of interlocking pavers promotes biodiversity by allowing water and nutrients to reach plant roots. This fosters healthier vegetation growth and supports a thriving ecosystem within your property.

Colour and Aesthetics

Choosing the right colours is crucial in driveway interlocking, as they significantly impact the aesthetic appeal and overall beauty of the space. The colours selected can enhance the exterior design and create a visually appealing entrance to your property.

Creating a cohesive palette

Creating a cohesive colour palette for driveway interlocking involves selecting shades that blend with the surrounding environment. By considering the existing landscape design and incorporating colours that blend well with nature, you can achieve a seamless integration of your driveway into the outdoor spaces.

Mood and atmosphere impact

The distinct aesthetics of the driveway, influenced by colour choices, play a key role in setting the mood and atmosphere of the outdoor area. Lighter colours can create a sense of openness and brightness, while darker tones add depth and intimacy to the space. Safety is also a critical factor, with lighter colours enhancing visibility during nighttime.

Conclusion

For those seeking good renovation services for their outdoor areas, such as backyard or front yard enhancements, Eco Pro Home Services stands out as a reputable option. Their expertise in creating stunning outdoor landscapes can help you in selecting design trends for driveway interlocking of your driveway into a visually striking feature that complements your home’s overall design. Use all the knowledge you’ve gained to make your driveway welcoming and stylish.