All posts by Proline Editor

The Simple Things in Life

ProLine Makes Radiant Heat Installations Easy

“Don’t forget to enjoy the simple things in life.” Like many other kids, that was one piece of advice handed down to me by parents and teachers alike. Certainly, it’s good advice for all of us, but sometimes we lose sight of the simple things because we’re so busy trying to survive our complicated lives. Sure, I’ll stop to enjoy the sunset – right after I take care of this invoice, and then call to confirm the Johnson’s hot-mix asphalt delivery. Oh, and after I email this quote to the Coopers.

Like most other gold nuggets of wisdom passed down to me, “enjoy the simple things” was placed prominently on my shelf, so to speak, but over time it slowly got pushed aside. I was too busy to notice when it fell down between the wall and the bookcase. Life as a general contractor can be too busy to notice the simple things; or so I thought.

Few things are simple in the construction business. But when you find something simple that works, well, then that’s something worth hanging on to. Which is why I hang on to my relationship with ProLine.

You wouldn’t think that adding radiant heat installations to your service offerings would be a simple way to boost your bottom line, but ProLine made it easy for me. You see, unlike other wholesale providers of radiant heated driveways, roof de-icing, pipe tracing, and floor heating systems, ProLine includes unparalleled support services. These services make all the difference in the world because they simplify things for me.

Sure, the pricing alone made it enticing for me to consider radiant installations. But seeing how ProLine takes care of so much of the legwork on each project, I felt like I couldn’t go wrong in giving it a try. When I had the opportunity to install a heated ramp for a large commercial parking structure, I jumped at the chance. I called ProLine.

Snow melting system installed in ramp to parking structure.

Keep in mind that ProLine is a wholesale provider. They provide products to your local electrical wholesaler. When you go to your electrical wholesaler and purchase ProLine radiant heat products, you also get the industry-leading customer support services as well. This used to be unheard of for wholesale providers! ProLine’s support services include free installation training, installation support, and complete system design and layout. This is good news for me and my customers. I don’t get bogged down with a lot of details. I let the radiant heat experts do what they do best, and they let me focus on what I do best.

ProLine’s system design team is as good as they come. Every system is carefully thought out, and custom designed to meet the specific demands (and budget) of the customer, and every detail of the system is covered in the AutoCAD. In addition to the precise layout of the heating elements and components, other info includes the electrical demands, performance needs, and budget. Your electrician will know everything he needs to properly install the system, including the proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and so on.

The detailed layout then serves as a road map for the installation team. But before any installation takes place, free installation training is provided. The training is offered via video conference, and is usually completed in less than an hour. The instructor goes over every aspect of the installation, and installers can stop and ask questions at any time.

Despite the free training, sometimes questions can arise during an installation. If that’s the case, no problem. ProLine has a staff of installation experts who are always available and happy to assist. Your electrician or installer can call to clarify or address any issue at hand.

To be honest, I really don’t do much, or worry much about installing radiant heat nowadays. I trust ProLine. Sure, I was a little nervous during my first couple of installs, but now I feel confident in offering all types of radiant heat solutions. And having the radiant heat arrow in my quiver of offerings has helped my business. Where others say “no”, I can say “yes”.

I am grateful there are companies like ProLine that not only provide quality products at affordable prices, but back those products with absolute top-notch services. I appreciate ProLine for making it easy for me to grow my business. I now have a renewed appreciation for the simple things in life.

Hey, did you see that sunset last night? Spectacular!

For more details about radiant floor heating systems from ProLine, or snow melting systems, call a friendly ProLine representative today, at 866-676-9276.

Heat Trace Solutions

De-icing Systems you can Trust

I do a lot of construction-related work in a mountain resort town, known worldwide for its miles of pristine ski runs featuring the “best snow on earth”. It’s a great place for winter sports enthusiasts and vacationers, but as residents know all too well, this “best snow on earth” can also take a toll on roofs and other structures.

While I won’t complain about having a steady workload, it still bothers me to see homeowners spending money on repairs that could have been avoided. Afterall, I’m a homeowner too.

The most common problem associated with winter roof damage is that caused by ice dams. Many water-damage issues that I’ve seen could have been avoided, simply by preventing ice dams from forming.

One key contributor to ice dams is a poorly insulated attic. Ice dams typically form because warm air in the attic heats the roof, and the melted snow trickles down the roof before it refreezes along the roof eaves. (Since there is no warm air reaching the eaves, the roof edges are colder.) The runoff then freezes as it crosses over the cold surface, creating a small ridge of ice. Over time, more and more runoff reaches the ridge of ice, where it also refreezes. Eventually, a large ridge forms, and subsequent runoff from the melted snow pools up behind the ridge. Here is where the problems can occur.

Icicles over a home's entryway
A home in need of a de-icing system.

Obviously, pools of water on a roof are not good. When water and gravity join forces, they combine to produce a pretty potent one-two punch. Water can find the tiniest cracks and imperfections on a roof. After seeping into these areas, it refreezes at night, where it expands, exacerbating those small faults and cracks.

Most roofs are durable, and designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, but the reality is that no roof is intended to endure prolonged periods under a pool of standing water. If this “freeze-thaw” process goes unnoticed over the years, roof damage is most likely inevitable. Water will eventually hitch a ride with gravity and find its way into the home.

In one case, water seeped into a house for years, but was not noticed because it trickled down behind a wall located in a remote part of the home. Additionally, because the wall was mostly obscured, the damage remained unnoticed. Only after the water stain expanded considerably was it also discovered that small patches of mold had formed. The cost of the repair work was substantial.

Now, I’m not trying to scare people into installing a roof de-icing system, but when I can, I like to encourage homeowners to take precautions in order to avoid potential problems like water damage. Preventive maintenance allows us to keep one step ahead of the disaster train. Instead of trying to tackle one home repair after another, I prefer to head them off at the pass by administering a little preventive medicine.

All homeowners should inspect their attic to make sure that it is properly insulated. The less warmth that enters the attic, the less likely it is that the bottom layer of snow on the roof melts. Less runoff from snow higher up on the roof means there’s less chance of ice dams from forming. Remind your clients to inspect their attics and make sure that the insulation is abundant, and well applied.

Roof with heated valley and edges
A roof with a de-icing system installed to heat valleys and edges.


For consumers who have small “problem areas” that are susceptible to ice dams, there is no denying the effectiveness of a roof de-icing system. Systems such as the low-voltage RoofHeat STEP system can be installed under shingles to keep entire roof eaves, valleys, and problem areas completely free of snow and ice during the winter months. (This system can also be safely installed under metal roofs.) However, the most affordable “dam buster” is self-regulating heat trace cable.

ProLine’s self-regulating heat cable can be installed along roof eaves and edges in a serpentine pattern to prevent ice dams and facilitate runoff. The heat trace cable doesn’t melt ALL the snow from the roof eaves, but it effectively eliminates the formation of large ice dams by providing channels that allow the melted snow to find its way to the gutter and downspouts. The durable heat trace cable is versatile can also be installed in roof gutters and downspouts.

The flexible cable’s outer jacket features UV-stabilized thermoplastic elastomer that protects the irradiated conductive core. The self-regulating property allows the conductive core to increase heat output as the temperature falls and decrease output when the temperature rises. This ensures energy-efficient operation, and prevents it from overheating, even if the cables touch.

Because of the affordability and effectiveness of this de-icing system, many consumers opt to install the heat cable on all the roof eaves of their home or business. ProLine system designers create a detailed layout of the system for the installers, which includes all the electrical information necessary for the electrician.

Despite being a wholesale provider of snow melting and de-icing systems, ProLine includes industry-leading support services for the end user. Contractors and building professionals work with ProLine because they know they will receive the services and support necessary to ensure their customers’ satisfaction. Free installation training is provided, as well as technical support, and professional system design and layout. Every system is custom designed to best meet the needs of each customer.

ProLine is the provider of choice for a growing number of contractors. To learn more about ProLine roof de-icing and heat trace systems, contact a friendly professional today, at 866-676-9276.

Radiant Floor Heating

ProLine Offers Industry-Leading Thermostats

Homeowners have many options when it comes to home heating systems. For years, the standard has been the typical forced-air systems, with furnaces, blowers, and ductwork. But times are changing, and homeowners are not only looking for optimum comfort, but top-notch efficiency. In terms of efficiency and unparalleled comfort, one heating technology rises far above any other. That technology is radiant heat.

Offering radiant floor heating installation for your customers can be a boon to your business. ProLine makes this easy. We offer a wide variety of electric floor heating systems, as well as hydronic systems. (Hydronic floor heating systems use specially treated water that is heated by a boiler and circulated through special PEX tubing that is embedded in the floor.)

ProLine radiant floor heating systems range from thin heat cable and mats to near-paper-thin heating panels, low-voltage systems, and more. If your customers are looking to install radiant heat under hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, or any other type of flooring, ProLine can match your customers with the ideal system that meets their heating needs and fits their budget.

Heated hardwood floor

ProLine Offers a Variety of Floor Heating Systems Including:

ProLine TileHeat: As the most popular floor heating option, this versatile system features thin heat cable (available in mats and spools) is effective for heating a wide variety of floors.

FilmHeat: This remarkable heating element is thinner than a credit card, and is regarded by flooring professionals at the best option for heating laminate and floating floors. A variation of FilmHeat can also be used to heat existing floors. The thin heating panels are stapled up between the floor joists, allowing homeowners to heat their floors without having to undergo any major remodeling.

Slab Heating: ProLine offers a rugged heat cable that is designed to withstand the stress of concrete pours. The heat cable is recommended for heating floors with concrete slabs, and is a common choice for those looking to heat basements.

Low-voltage FloorHeat: This system features thin, low-voltage polymer panels. The heating element is ideal for installation under hardwood floors.

FoilHeat: The FoilHeat floor heating system features thin heat cable that is sandwiched between two layers of specially reinforced aluminum. The FoilHeat system is designed for heating laminate and engineered wood floors, but can also be used under carpet.

Prodeso: The flexible underlayment membrane provides an innovative uncoupling and waterproofing system for heating floors and other surfaces without movement or expansion joints in the screed.

ProLine floor heating systems are among the best on the market. One reason why these systems are so efficient, and easy to use, is because of the advanced thermostats. The latest floor heating system thermostat added to ProLine’s offerings is the LED WiFi Touch thermostat.

This beautifully designed touch-screen thermostat provides easy, intuitive control. Users can also adjust and monitor their floor heating system remotely by accessing it locally through Bluetooth® or virtually anywhere else when connected to the Cloud service through WiFi. Users can also control the thermostat through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant-enabled devices. The LED WiFi thermostats also have an easy-to-follow installation wizard that guides you through the setup process.

The LED WiFi floor heating thermostat
The LED WiFi Touch thermostat for radiant floor heating systems.

The advanced thermostat transmits encrypted data securely via TLS 1.3. This is the latest encryption technology, which allows faster and more secure connections. When connected via WiFi, take advantage of the secure and comprehensive WPA3 protocol.

A variety of other thermostat options are also available to your customers. ProLine floor heating system controllers range from programmable “TOUCH” thermostats to simple control devices for those on a budget.

ProLine’s radiant heat solutions are backed by industry-leading customer support services. Each system is customized by expert system designers. ProLine’s design team members know the products and are committed to create the system that best meets the customer’s specific demands and expectations. Detailed system layouts that include all technical information needed for installation are provided to the installer / electrician. The information includes materials, system performance expectations, number of breakers, breaker sizes, and proper load calculations. This layout serves as the road map for installers which allows them to quickly and efficiently install the ProLine system.

Free installation training is also provided by ProLine. The training is available via video conference with an instructor who covers all aspects of your system’s installation. Installers interact with the instructor, and can stop to ask questions at any time. Installers also have access to ProLine’s dedicated support professionals. Radiant heat experts are available to answer questions and resolve any issues that may arise during the installation process. An online library of photos and illustrations, product documentation, and instructional videos is also available on ProLine’s website.

Contact a professional at ProLine today for more information on our many custom radiant heat solutions, at 866-676-9276.

The Ultimate Partner

ProLine Offers Wholesale Pricing and Unmatched Customer Services

Running a profitable business is about providing valuable services (and products) that help customers find convenient, helpful ways to improve their life or business. One way for construction professionals to do this is to ensure the upcoming winter season doesn’t catch them off guard. For business owners, winter snow and ice can lead to hazardous conditions that create liability issues and slow the flow of customers. With ProLine wholesale radiant heating products, winter can remain productive and profitable for everyone.

ProLine can help you offer residential and commercial customers innovative solutions to keep their businesses safe and clear this winter. The demand for radiant heat installation increases as the temperature decreases, making it the perfect choice for construction professionals to add to their repertoire.

A good place to start is with radiant heated driveways. Heating driveways is a popular choice for homeowners, and eases the pain and hassle of manual snow removal. ProLine’s versatile electric radiant heat cable can be used under almost any medium, including asphalt, concrete, and pavers. Electric radiant heating cable is rugged and reliable, delivering years of peak performance. The cable is available in individual lengths, as well as pre-spaced in mats that can be rolled out for easy installation.

Cambridge paver heated driveway.
A radiant snow melting system installed for a long heated paver driveway.

Snow melting systems can be customized for virtually any application. Radiant heat is ideal for installation in residential driveways or large commercial applications. Radiant heat can be installed to heat driveways, ramps, parking areas, sidewalks, and even steps. Heated steps are particularly important to keep clear of snow and ice during the winter months. Needless to say, providing safe access to one’s business or home is vital. Keeping steps, walkways, and parking areas clear with Proline radiant heat cable is the surest way to keep customers and employees safe throughout the winter season.

Radiant heating systems can be easily customized to meet one’s budget and snow melting needs. If heating an entire area doesn’t meet your customers’ needs, ProLine’s customer service experts can design a custom solution that best suits their needs. For driveways, check out these great options:

Heat a center strip: Customers who may not want to heat an entire area can simply heat the center strip.  Instead of heating the entire surface area, some homeowners opt to heat an 8-10 feet wide strip. This option is perfect for specific areas that see higher amounts of traffic and makes sense for a lot of homeowners.

Heat two tire tracks: Customers often use theProLine heating mats to heat two 24-inch-wide tire tracks. The heating cable is pre-spaced in the mats, which are conveniently laid out, making installation quick and easy. Heating only two tire tracks also requires less power than a system heating the entire driveway, making this an excellent solution for homeowners on a tight budget.  

Specific areas: Use ProLine’s state-of-the-art mats or cable to heat troublesome areas anywhere around a business or a home. Heat cable can be installed in just about any area. Heating steps, heavily shaded areas, or driveway inclines can be the ideal solution for many.

Heated paver steps
A heated walkway and steps leading to the front door of a residence.

Roof de-icing is another solution to help customers prevent any costly repairs associated with water damage from a leaking roof. ProLine can help prevent heavy ice and snow from destroying roofs and causing property damage. Snow and ice buildup can create ice dams along roof edges. Ice dams prevent roof drainage and cause seepage that can lead to mold and mildew inside. One solution is to install heating cable.

Self-regulating heat cable features an irradiated conductive core with a rugged outer jacket to protect it from water and alkaline damage. The self-regulating heat cable is easily placed along roof edges, eaves, or trouble spots to provide channels for the runoff, and prevent ice dams from forming.

Freezing temperatures can also lead to broken pipes and expensive water damage that can take months to repair. Using pipe trace cable from ProLine can prevent these hazards. Pipe trace cable is the most effective option for any outdoor pipes. Commercial and industrial customers benefit from installing heat trace cable.

While ProLine’s variety of products ensures peak performance, what really sets ProLine apart is its comprehensive customer support services. ProLine is unlike other wholesalers on the market. These services allow contractors to focus on their business. No more worrying about hunting down products you need or wondering if they will get delivered on time. ProLine has resources and vast warehouse facilities that manufacture and house their products. We know that your time is especially valuable in the winter season and work hard to ensure our supply meets demand without frustrating delays.

ProLine’s comprehensive customer service starts with system design professionals. They know the products inside and out and work hard to meet every customer’s needs and expectations. Once the design professional has all the information, they can start on a custom-designed system. Every system comes with a detailed layout of the system, as well as all technical information needed for installation. The information includes materials, system performance expectations, number of breakers, breaker sizes, and proper load calculations. This layout allows installers to quickly and efficiently install any system.

Installation training is also free with ProLine. The training is provided via video conference with an instructor who will cover all aspects of installation and spend time with you to answer any questions. After installation training, installers have access to ProLine’s dedicated support professionals. They are available to help answer questions or help resolve any problems that may arise during the process of installation. An online library of photos and illustrations, product documentation, and instructional videos is also available anytime. No matter what your needs are, ProLine is there from start to finish. That why ProLine is a favorite among building professionals.

If you have questions, call and speak to a professional at ProLine today at 866-676-9276.