considering subfloor heating | **Material** | **Ability to Melt Snow with Subroad Heating** | **Initial Cost Amortized (per sq ft)** | **Annual Maintenance Cost (per sq ft)** | |---------------------|----------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | **Clay** | Moderate – Good thermal conductivity but may require enhanced stabilization for durability. | $2–$5 (depending on stabilization method) | $0.50–$1.00 (repairs due to erosion, cracking) | | **Biomaterials** | Moderate – Materials like hempcrete have decent thermal retention but can degrade faster. | $5–$10 (depends on material source) | $0.75–$1.50 (degradation/weathering) | | **Natural Materials** (e.g., gravel, soil-stabilized roads) | Poor – Less consistent thermal performance, may require additional heating elements. | $1–$3 | $0.25–$0.75 (dust control, erosion repair) | | **Concrete** | Excellent – High thermal conductivity and durability make it ideal for snow melting. | $5–$15 | $0.50–$1.00 (crack sealing, patching) | | **Asphalt** | Good – Retains heat well but can degrade under frequent freeze-thaw cycles. | $3–$7 | $1.00–$1.50 (sealcoating, pothole repair) |