As the colder months approach, you might be considering underfloor heating to improve the warmth in your building this Autumn/Winter. But which flooring is the most compatible with underfloor heating and are there any materials you should rule out straight away?
Electrical heating vs Water Heating
Electric cables used in electric underfloor heating systems heat up when they are linked to the mains electricity supply. In new buildings, a screed surface is frequently used, while electric mats or tiles are usually put in older buildings. Since an electric system is simpler to construct than a barrier pipe, it is typically used for existing structures.
A water heating system sometimes referred to as a wet or gas underfloor heating system circulates hot water through specialised polyethene barrier piping that has individual circuits for the various zones in the property. Then, a manifold with controlling valves and a thermostat is connected to the zones. This means that various areas of the property can be heated to defined temperatures at various times and locations.
Are Any Floors Not Compatible with Underfloor Heating?
There a no floors that are forbidden to be used alongside underfloor heating, however, you have to be extremely careful if wooden floors are your floor of choice. Due to wood shrinking and expanding when sudden temperature changes arise, you have to be wary.
Should you choose wooden flooring you must always check with the manufacturer before installing heating beneath it. A solid hardwood floor is the one you have to be most cautious about. If you really desire wooden floors, engineered timber is your best bet.
Always remember that no matter what material you choose, the temperature of your heating system must never exceed 27 degrees.
Which Floors Are the Best for Underfloor Heating?
Although pretty much any floor can be used with underfloor heating, some do conduct the heat better than others. Tile and stone are known to be the best choice when pairing with underfloor heating because they have high thermal conductivity. This means that the temperatures from below transfer to the surface quickly.
Tiles and stone are usually known as cold flooring which is why paring them with underfloor heating gives you the best of both worlds. Cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, they are super stylish and come in a wide variety of designs and colours.
If you’re after the most affordable option, then tiles are much more reasonable than stone. Not forgetting there are still just as effective at conducting heat as stone.
Are you going to consider heating your floors this winter? Do you need a new floor that will pair perfectly with your new system? Contact our expert team today and get the ball rolling.
