What flooring works best with underfloor heating?
To learn more about underfloor heating, there are two types of underfloor heating systems: electrical and water.
An electrical underfloor heating system, known as in-floor heating, underfloor heating, or radiant-heat flooring, comprises various sheets, mats, or coils placed beneath the flooring, and it operates an electric resistance cable. In comparison, water underfloor heating systems are usually designed for an entire house. A boiler heats water and passes through pipes underneath the floors.
Having underfloor heating is a great way to keep your home warm. However, your flooring preference is essential to obtain the most out of your underfloor heating system. Some are greater than others, and some are less qualified. Therefore, there are factors that you have to consider when choosing a new floor, such as thickness and retention. However, the most crucial factor to consider is that they quickly transfer and give out more heat, which is more comfortable and efficient. The best flooring works for underfloor heating will have the highest thermal conductivity. High thermal conductivity will assist in quicker heat-up and reduced energy generated to keep a constant heat level, making your system more efficient throughout. There is a comprehensive option of flooring types applicable for use with underfloor heating. This article will share everything you need to learn about choosing the right floor for your underfloor heating system.
Tile flooring
Tile flooring is one of the best options for underfloor heating. Heat transfers faster to tiles, retaining the heat for the longest. You can use either water or electric UFH for tiles. And of course, tiles are stylish and easy to clean and maintain. Plus, tile is generally a cold floor so having underfloor heating is a big perk that you will enjoy as well as boost the resale value of your home!
Tile floors are efficient for even heat transfer and can be installed on any floor level. Stone and ceramic tiles are the best choices because they are the highest thermally conductive of all floor types. At the same time, porcelain and ceramic tiles are more practical than natural stone tiles and generate heat efficiently and adequately as natural stone tiles. The subfloor must be stable and even guarantee that your tile floor is settled perfectly. Make sure to hire professional floor installers such as our team here at Rachel's Floors so that any activity on the subfloor won’t cause your tiles to break.
Tile floorings have a variety of styles, patterns and colours to choose from, and you get to enjoy them for the most extended years because of their durability and long-lasting capability. Ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles are the preferred flooring materials in kitchens and bathrooms.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Vinyl flooring executes remarkably as a conductor for underfloor heating. Since most vinyl floors are thin, they can heat up and cool down faster. In addition, vinyl flooring is waterproof and moisture resistant. Like laminate flooring, it could only reach a maximum heat of 80°F to prevent damaging your floors. It is essential to ask your floor installers about the maximum floor temperature and install a temperature sensor to keep the temperature constant or no higher than recommended.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is more affordable and straightforward to upkeep than natural wood or stone floors. Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers with a core made up of fiberboard, and it can also resemble the appearance of stone or wood.
One edge of laminate is that it does not easily distort or buckle with temperature fluctuations. And one good thing about laminate flooring is its interlocks, positioned above the subfloor and holding enough space between the subfloor and laminate floor, which helps hinder deformation when the temperature changes. As a result, laminate flooring is best for both water and electric underfloor heating systems. However, ensure that the floors are not thicker than 18mm for adequate heat transfer and the heat does not exceed 80°F to prevent damaging your floors.
Carpet
Carpet Flooring may not be the top choice for underfloor heating, but it is still feasible. Carpet flooring may take longer to heat up because some materials are not designed to insulate, but they can retain the warm longer. A thinner carpet is a better option because it does not insulate too much or block most heat. Before choosing your carpet as your flooring for underfloor heating, always ask your floor installers about its tog rating, which tells how well the material insulates.
There are plenty of excellent options to pair with your radiant-heat flooring. Give us a call here at Rachel's Floors to book your free consultation. We're your local flooring store with the best customer service you can find. Try us and find out for yourself!
