How to get the best results with UFH floor coverings?
One of the most common questions that end-users ask when introducing underfloor heating into any project (retrofit or new build) is about floor coverings.
In this article, Carson Remmington, business development manager at Ambiente, explains more about specifying underfloor heating for different floor finishes and key considerations to achieve the perfect balance of style and performance.
Many myths and misconceptions exist about what floor covering is best for underfloor heating, and there are ongoing debates about fitting underfloor heating systems with different floor finishes — mainly what is most or least compatible. The short answer is that most floor finishes are compatible with underfloor heating. Yet, floor finish should be a key consideration at the earliest stages of system design alongside other vital parameters to maximise the potential output of a UFH system.
Considering floor finish during the design process will ensure that the UFH system and floor finish complement each other to maximise the system’s efficiency. This consideration becomes more important when the floor finish varies from room to room, e.g. carpet in the living room and solid wood in the kitchen.
Understanding the thermal resistance of a floor covering type will ensure that the underfloor heating system design includes the required spacing of the pipework and the rate that water will need to be pumped around the loops to meet the heat loss. While most underfloor heating systems can suit every finish, there are some key points regarding each floor covering to keep in mind.
CERAMICS AND STONE
When installed without underfloor heating, tiles and stone can get very cold, especially when only traditional convection heating systems (radiators) are in place. In comparison, underfoor heating beneath the whole floor will make this surface and the room comfortably warm.
Ceramics and natural stone are considered the best kind of floor covering with underfloor heating. The density of the materials and low thermal resistance allow the heat from the pipework to travel quickly through and heat the space above. All stone products can be fitted above underfloor heating, including slate and limestone.
WOODEN FLOORING
Take extra care when using wood flooring over underfloor heating because it is a natural product and can react to environmental changes in the property. Therefore, it is essential to check with the flooring manufacturer whether their products are subject to a temperature limit.
If this is the case, a floor probe will be required to limit the heating temperature to this level. Generally speaking, engineered wood floor is the most robust and least likely to react adversely to the heat. On the other hand, solid wood floors contain a higher natural product content and will be more sensitive to heat changes.
CARPETS
There is a common misconception that carpet is a poor fit with UFH. Carpet is one of the highest-resistance floor coverings, so the composition must be considered when planning the system. The Carpet Foundation carried out research with the Underfloor Heating Manufacturers Association and proved conclusively that carpet can be used over underfloor heating without impairing the system’s performance.
The thermal resistance should be kept below 2.5 togs when using carpet and underlay to ensure that the system operates efficiently. There are also underlays available for underfloor heating that can further enhance the system’s capabilities.
LAMINATES AND VINYL
Most laminate and vinyl flooring can be used with underfloor heating. The coverings are typically thin and high-density, so they have a relatively low thermal resistance. It is worth checking with the flooring manufacturer first to ensure that the specific flooring is suitable for underfloor heating.
RUGS
Generally, rugs aren’t recommended for use with underfloor heating, so it’s worth informing the end-user at the very beginning of a project. Not only do rugs act as an additional resistance for the heat to penetrate, but heat can also gather beneath the rug, causing potential temperature build-up to a level that could damage the floor covering beneath.
FLOOR SENSORS
Standard or programmable room UFH thermostats control the temperature of most underfloor heating systems. However, more advanced temperature sensing devices are available that provide a more personalised and proactive means of climate control.
One common device used is a floor probe. A floor probe can be installed as close to the floor surface as possible to get the most accurate floor surface temperature reading. floor probes are used frequently in wet areas or areas with high air change rates where a standard wall-mounted air sensor would struggle to get an accurate reading.
Floor probes are also used underneath sensitive floors where a maximum floor temperature is required, e.g. solid wood floors.
FINISH STRONG WITH AMBIENTE UNDERFLOOR HEATING
Thanks to the flexibility of underfloor heating, installers can work with the system supplier to design a solution with the perfect floor covering that delivers optimum style and performance.
Ambiente UFH supplies all the products your need for your projects, from underfloor heating manifolds to low-profile UFH systems.
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