Which Floor Materials Work Well with Underfloor Heating

1. Which Floor Materials Work Well with Underfloor Heating? Some floor metals are simply better than others when it comes to working with underfloor heating systems. Certain properties can make a floor covering good or bad for radiant heating systems, such as its thickness and the way it allows heat to pass through it and transfer up from below into your home. While carpets have a less thermal conductive rating than tiles, there’s more to consider than just this, including how materials work with your existing floor substrate and the way products can expand or contract over time. We explore this topic in more detail for anyone considering the type of floor to install above their underfloor heating system. The Basics Thicker floor coverings like solid hardwood and engineered wood can be poor thermal bridges. Mineral-based floor coverings, chiefly tile and stone, on the other hand, are excellent thermal conductors. Additionally, unlike wood, tile and stone do not expand or contract. Due to significant temperature variations and moisture in the room, solid hardwood floors can easily be damaged.

2. So, while wood flooring can still work with underfloor heating systems, there’s more thought that must go into this decision, and how you will lay down your material and maintain it over time. Today, porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone are considered the best flooring materials for radiant heating as they encompass the most beneficial characteristics when it comes to materials that work well with underfloor heating. Similarly, carpet is considered the worst choice for anyone installing a heating system underground. Natural Stone Flooring Any kind of natural stone or aggregate stone is a good choice for underfloor radiant heating systems. It has good thermal conductivity and doesn’t shrink or contract. The great thing about a stone too is how it will retain heat for long periods of time. But, the downside is that it will also take longer to heat up in the first place, compared to ceramic and porcelain tile. Porcelain or Ceramic Tile Porcelain and ceramic tile are perfect for use with radiant floor heating systems. Not only is tile thin but its mineral-based nature means that it conducts heat well. You’ll see these tiles used in more and more bathrooms and kitchens in coming years as the likely flooring choice for people who are installing new UFH systems. Laminate Flooring Laminate flooring’s thickness (or lack of it) is great for installing radiant heating, allowing the heat to penetrate the surface and spread into

3. your home. However, certain precautions must be taken to protect the flooring. Typically, the temperature of the heating system must be kept below a certain point so that the laminate does not become damaged. This is especially important if moisture is on the surface. Nevertheless, this is considered a great compromise for people who want natural wood but something that is more affordable. READ MORE UK Screeds Ltd 5 Thorpes Field Alvescot England Bampton Oxfordshire OX18 2QF 0800 197 8802 info@ukscreedsltd.co.uk https://www.ukscreedsltd.co.uk/