Heated Driveways are one of the most desirable cold-weather upgrades for Ontario homeowners—but what's the real price tag? Whether you're tired of shoveling, paying for snow removal, or planning a full driveway renovation, this 2025 guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to pay for a heated driveway installation.
From electric and hydronic system pricing to real-world installation data, add-ons, and smart ways to save—here's everything you need to know before choosing the right system for your home. (Hint: hydronic systems deliver the best long-term value in Ontario.)
Heated Driveway System Options & Costs
There are two types of radiant snow-melting systems used in residential driveways: electric and hydronic. Each comes with its own price point, efficiency, and best-use case.
Electric Heated Driveways
Electric systems use resistance heating cables or pre-formed mats. They're best suited for compact areas under 600 sq. ft. such as walkways, apron zones, or tire-track sections. Because of Ontario's high hydro rates and limited household electrical capacity, electric systems are rarely practical for full-size driveways.
Precision Landscaping primarily recommends glycol-based hydronic systems for full-driveway heating due to their efficiency, longevity, and lower energy costs.
Hydronic Heated Driveways
Hydronic systems use heated glycol circulated through tubing beneath the surface. Best suited for full-size driveways, curved layouts, or high-snowfall regions.
Heated Driveway System Comparison
| System Type | Avg. Cost per Sq. Ft. | 600 Sq. Ft. Driveway | Power Source | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | $28 | ≈ $16,800 | 200 A panel (often requires upgrade) | Small zones under 600 sq. ft |
| Hydronic (Glycol) | $40 | ≈ $22,800 | Natural gas boiler or heat pump | Full driveways & estate-size layouts |
Want help deciding between the two? Check out our full breakdown: Electric vs Hydronic Heated Driveway Comparison
Installation Pricing: What's Included
A full heated driveway installation from Precision Landscaping includes more than just the radiant system. Our all-in pricing ensures long-term performance, safety, and minimal heat loss.
What's Included:
- Full driveway demolition (if applicable)
- Excavation & drainage prep
- Insulation and radiant system install
- Boiler (hydronic) or electrical hookup (electric)
- Paving: Interlock, concrete, or stone
- Sensor & control system installation
- Warranty-backed craftsmanship
These are not "just add heating cables" projects. Our systems are designed and installed for long-term value and performance under Ontario winters.
Heated Driveway Cost by Size (2025 Averages)
| Driveway Size (sq. ft.) | Electric Cost Range | Hydronic Cost Range | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300 | $8,400 - $12,000 | $12,000 - $18,000 | Small urban driveways, apron zones |
| 400 | $11,200 - $16,000 | $16,000 - $24,000 | Mid-sized residential |
| 500 | $14,000 - $20,000 | $20,000 - $30,000 | Average Ontario driveway |
| 600 | $16,800 - $24,000 | $22,800 - $36,000 | Two-car driveway |
| 800 | $22,400 - $32,000 | $35,000-$48,000 | Estate-style driveways |
| 1,000 | $28,000 - $40,000 | $40,000 - $60,000 | Premium installs |
Note: Premium finishes like natural stone, architectural concrete, or decorative interlock can add $10-$20/sq. ft to either system. Complex shapes or curved layouts may also raise material and labour costs.
Example for High-End Projects:
A 1,000 sq. ft heated driveway with a curved layout and natural stone finish in Nobleton could cost $55-$60/sq. ft for hydronic installation. Total installation would fall in the $55,000-$60,000 range—an appropriate estimate for premium materials and more complex excavation or grading.
Add-On Costs to Expect
Heated driveways can be part of a larger snow-melting strategy. Below are common add-ons that homeowners bundle with their systems.
| Add-On Feature | Typical Cost Range | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Heated Walkways (100 sq. ft.) | $2,500 - $4,375 | Clear high-traffic paths |
| Heated Garage Apron | $3,000 - $5,500 | Entry/exit zones, steep slopes |
| Heated Steps (3-5 risers) | $2,000 - $3,000 | Safety for entryways |
| Smart Control Systems | $500 - $1,500 | Energy savings, automation |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,200 - $3,500 | Required for many electric systems |
| Snow Sensor Upgrades | $300 - $900 | More efficient system activation |
Planning your full snow-melt layout upfront allows you to maximize efficiency and reduce cost per square foot.
Operating Efficiency Insight
Real-world data from GTA Heat shows that in Ontario, hydronic systems typically cost less than one-quarter as much to operate as electric snow-melt cables on a comparable surface. Electric systems can reach up to 464 °F and often strain household power capacity, while hydronic tubing runs steadily and efficiently on natural gas or heat-pump energy.
How to Save on Heated Driveway Costs
Heated driveways are a premium upgrade—but smart planning can make them much more affordable. Here's how Ontario homeowners keep costs down without sacrificing performance or durability:
Install During a Driveway Replacement
The most cost-effective time to install a heated driveway is when you're already repaving. You'll save on demo, excavation, and labour by combining both projects.
Heat Only the Essentials
You don't need to heat the full surface to get full benefit. Many clients heat just the tire tracks, steep slopes, or garage apron—reducing costs while still eliminating the need to shovel.
Use Smart Controls
Programmable thermostats and automatic snow sensors help limit runtime to only when it's actually snowing or freezing. This reduces your energy bill without compromising safety.
Choose Electric for Smaller Areas
Electric systems are simpler to install and better suited to smaller driveways or urban properties. If your layout is under 600 sq. ft., this can offer major savings.
Bundle with Landscaping Upgrades
Planning other outdoor upgrades? Heating can be seamlessly integrated into new interlock, walkways, or front entrances—lowering per-project costs and streamlining the build.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Here's when a heated driveway makes the most financial sense:
- You already plan to replace or repave your driveway
- You pay for professional snow clearing
- You want to prevent long-term surface damage from salt or plowing
- You're dealing with steep grades, curves, or shaded areas
- You want long-term curb appeal and safety during icy months
Remember, heated driveways don't just save time—they protect your investment in your home. To learn more read through our other Blog: Are Heated Driveways Worth It?
Precision Landscaping: Ontario's Heated Driveway Experts
At Precision Landscaping, we specialize in custom driveway heating systems designed to withstand the harshest Ontario winters. Whether you want to heat your full interlock surface or just the high-traffic zones, we build it to perform for decades.
- Serving Toronto, Vaughan, Mississauga, Oakville, and beyond
- Trusted for interlock, concrete, and natural stone installations
- Electric and hydronic systems available
- Fully licensed and insured with system warranties
- Installed in partnership with GTA Heat, Ontario's leading hydronic snow-melt specialists.
Invest in Comfort and Safety—Book Your Free Heated Driveway Estimate
If you're ready to upgrade your property with a Heated Driveway, our team is here to help. Precision Landscaping provides clear, itemized quotes tailored to your layout, surface material, and heating preferences. From small apron zones to full luxury driveways, we'll walk you through your best options—no pressure, no guesswork.
Contact us todayto book your free consultation and start planning a safer, snow-free winter.
