Best Tips for a Successful Underfloor Heating Installation

Underfloor heating has become an efficient and modern alternative to traditional heating systems as it offers many benefits in terms of thermal comfort and energy efficiency. If you’re considering this for your home, find out more about underfloor heating: how it works, and which floor covering materials are compatible with such a heating system. 

What is underfloor heating and how does it work? 

Underfloor heating is an innovative method of providing thermal comfort inside homes. This system is based on the principle of using convection and radiant heat to warm up a room. As a result, it eliminates the need for radiators or other visible heating sources. This concept has long been used in some regions but has recently become popular due to its energy efficiency, besides the increased comfort. The underfloor heating involves placing thin pipes or cables under the floor. Later, the heating can be achieved with water, hot air, or by using electricity. The system is connected to a central heating plant or heat pump and is controlled by a thermostat. When the thermostat is functioning, the heat is discharged into the floor and is delivered upwards into the room. Because the heat is evenly distributed across the floor, a constant temperature is achieved throughout the room and the feeling of a cold floor is eliminated.

Tips for the correct installation of a floor heating system 

 Should you want to have such a system in your home, here are our recommendations: 

1. Consult an underfloor heating expert 

First, you need to consult an expert. Here's how a professional can help: 

• Calculate your heating needs properly – an expert will assess the size and specification of your home and calculate the necessary materials to ensure optimum thermal comfort, as well as the cost of the work;

• Choosing the right system - there are different types of underfloor heating systems, and to choose the right one for your needs, you may need professional advice;

• Assistance with the installation process – ideally, the installation and coordination of the whole process is carried out by qualified professionals;

• Maintenance advice - an expert can offer advice on the correct way to maintain your underfloor heating system to extend its life and efficiency. 

2. Choose quality materials 

In addition to the materials needed for the heating system, it is essential to go for the right materials for the floor covering. Here are some good options: 

Marble 

Marble is a stone popular for its high thermal conductivity, and as such it gets heated and cools down fast. Such a feature is a benefit for a project that needs fast temperature regulation. Marble tiles for interiors are durable and hard-wearing. Besides, by being elegant, durable, and available in many colors and textures, marble adds aesthetic value to your home. 

Granite 

Another natural material that is perfect for tiling heated floors, granite has lower thermal conductivity. As a result, granite’s heating and cooling will be slower compared to marble. This is a benefit, should you need a constant temperature in your home. At the same time, granite can be more affordable and is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. 

Travertine 

Travertine is a natural material durable against temperature variations, and therefore suitable for underfloor heating systems subjected to many heating and cooling cycles. This reduces the risk of surface cracks or material deterioration in time. Besides, travertine has quite low maintenance costs, when properly sealed, to prevent moisture and dirt penetration. With proper maintenance, travertine will preserve the initial aspect in time. Travertine has a natural beauty and elegant look, with many color shades and unique textures. So, if you use this material for cladding a heated floor, you'll enjoy a surface with a sophisticated and warm look. 

3. Make sure you have a proper underlay preparation 

To ensure efficient and long-lasting operation of your underfloor heating system, underlay preparation is essential. First, you should remove all the dust and dirt from the surface. Then, properly level the underlay, using a screed to avoid subsequent warping or floor cracking. It is recommended to install a layer of thermal insulation under the underlay to prevent heat loss in the opposite direction. It is also ideal to apply a layer of waterproofing, for protecting the heating system against moisture penetration. For a newly built home, or one that has been exposed to extreme temperatures, it is important to allow your underlay to stabilize at room temperature for at least a few days before installing the underfloor heating system. The underlay should be prepared according to the type of flooring material you will be using. Make sure the substrate is suitable for marble, granite, travertine, or your preferred material, and always communicate with the installation experts, to make sure the underfloor heating system is laid out properly. 

4. Work with experts in underfloor heating installation 

The process of installing an underfloor heating system involves several important steps. As soon as the surface has been properly prepared, pipes or cables are laid properly and evenly, and then the thermal agent is filled into the system or activated, depending on the type of system chosen. The floor covering is fitted over the pipes and secured tightly so that there are no gaps or cracks that could damage the system. Finally, tests are carried out to check that the installation is working properly and that everything is in optimum parameters. It is recommended to avoid installing a floor heating system by yourself unless you have experience and qualifications in this domain. A professional installer will carry out all the steps correctly and ensure that the system works efficiently and smoothly in the long run. 

Underfloor heating offers thermal comfort and energy efficiency, but the success of this modern heating system requires careful planning and good collaboration with specialists in the field. Keep in mind all the info available here, and if you're looking for the perfect natural materials for cladding heated floors, discover the wide range of marble, granite, and travertine available on the website.