Underfloor heating is having something of a resurgence. It removes the need for radiators and adds a more organic-feeling warmth to your home. But it's important to choose the right flooring material to make sure your underfloor heating works efficiently, and more importantly, is safe.
If you want underfloor heating underneath carpet, make sure the carpet is approved for use with underfloor heating. Check the TOG and underlay and ensure any fixatives you use on the carpet can withstand underfloor heat.
A laminate floor is great for water-based underfloor heating. However, be careful not to lay thick rugs or mats over the floor as this will stop the heat rising into your room.
Vinyl is also fine to use - but double-check the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure it is safe.
Wooden floors are slightly more tricky - engineered floorboards should get chance to get used to the room temperature before being laid, and you must follow the instructions. Floorboards can also be too thick to work - make sure they are around 25mm but no thicker.
Wooden flooring has a range of finishes so make sure your chosen finish is compatible with underfloor heating, and remember wooden floors will require higher-temperatures from your underfloor heating than concrete floors.
The latest flooring news, courtesy of Floors Online.
Date : 21/06/2011
Category: Flooring Industry News