Underfloor heating (UFH) is a revolutionary system that heats up the floor from underneath rather than heating the air. It makes the whole room cosy and comfortable and eliminates the need for radiators, freeing up wall space for furniture or other fixtures/fittings. There is also a minimal amount of maintenance required and it is more efficient than a boiler-based system.
This is a great option for new-build properties or refurbishment projects. Warm water is supplied from a central heating system or ground source heat pump to a series of pipes that are buried under the flooring. These are then connected to a manifold in the room, which regulates the temperature and is controlled via a thermostat. The pipes are typically laid continuously from one end of the room to the other, with insulation being placed under the floors to prevent them from causing cold spots within the rooms.
It is recommended to use a specialist UFH underfloor heating fitters screed for installation. This can be a semi-dry trowelling screed or a fast-flowing liquid screed that can be pumped over the piping to a prescribed depth. Both systems require a good quality pipe cutter that will cut cleanly and accurately through the pipes, as well as a tape measure to ensure the correct spacing between each run of piping. Lastly, it is important to have a pipe re-rounding tool available to ensure that the cuts made in the piping are perfectly spherical and will fit snugly when the system is turned on.
UFH can be fitted under almost any flooring type, including carpet, vinyl, tiling and hardwood/laminate. Whether it’s a retrofit project or a new build property, there are many registered installers across the UK who can help with underfloor heating planning and fitting. They will be able to advise on what system is best for your individual needs and budget and can help with the planning, supply and fitting of the underfloor heating system.
Both electric and wet UFH systems need to be fitted with insulation under the floors to prevent the heating pipes from radiating the heat downwards and escaping through the floor/subfloor/foundation and into the earth. A recommended insulation material is Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), which is lightweight and affordable.
Underfloor heating can be a cost-effective way to make your home more energy efficient as the system only operates at low temperatures when in use, which means you’ll save money on your energy bills. UFH is also an environmentally friendly choice and can help reduce carbon emissions in the home, especially if it’s replacing older boilers or heating systems.
Underfloor heating is a great option for those who want to get rid of the unsightly sight of radiators, or who want to open up their spaces and create a more contemporary look. As a result, it is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners. It will take a little longer than radiators to reach the desired temperature, but you can set timers and operate it through smart controls to maximise the benefits.