Underfloor heating and floor height – what do they mean? Electrical and water based systems require different build heights, but both require the same heat source and water to keep the floor warm. For electrical systems, the build height is often around 50mm, but for water based systems, it can be much higher. Luckily, vinyl flooring is a good conductor for underfloor heating. When you decide to build or renovate a home, underfloor heating from vloerverwarming is definitely worth considering.

Water based underfloor heating systems require greater build heights than electrical underfloor heating systems

The difference between electrical and water based underfloor heating systems lies in the construction height required. Water-based systems require greater build heights because they absorb heat through a tile adhesive or screed layer. Electric underfloor heating systems are easier to install, and their construction height is lower than those of water-based systems. However, electric underfloor heating systems need to be installed above a levelling compound layer, which can be more challenging to install.

The installation process is complex and expensive. Water-based systems can be installed in new buildings, but renovation work requires a more complicated installation process. The height requirement is often more than 50mm. Water-based systems are more expensive than electrical underfloor heating, as they require a greater amount of space between the finished floor and the sub-floor. Water-based systems can also raise floor heights by more than 15cm.

PEX tubing acts as the main arteries for underfloor heating

PEX is a type of pipe that is widely used in underfloor heating. It comes in several sizes, ranging from 1/2″ to 3/4″. Most PEX tubing is orange in color, and is sold in rolls of 300 to 1,000 feet. PEX is categorized into two categories: non-barrier and barrier. The latter is used when the system is installed in a commercial property.

The history of underfloor heating dates back to the Roman Empire, and its uses have only grown in popularity. During the 1930s, the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright began to incorporate hydronic radiant heat into his design. As the technology evolved, so did the materials used. PEX tubing, also known as cross-linked polyethylene, became an ideal choice for underfloor heating. This polymer is safe, reliable, and widely available. In Europe, PEX tubing is extensively used in underfloor heating systems, and it is quickly gaining popularity in North America.

Vinyl flooring performs well as a conductor for underfloor heating

The combination of a vinyl floor and underfloor heating is becoming increasingly popular in homes and offices, thanks to its many benefits. Apart from its wide range of applications, vinyl flooring is easy to install and offers high-quality material properties. Another plus of underfloor heating is its environmental and cost-effective nature. If you are planning to install underfloor heating, you need to pay special attention to the installation process.

Underfloor heating on vinyl flooring is safe, provided that the heat generated is not too high and not too fast. The classic hot water underfloor heating system generates heat by flowing warm water through pipes, ensuring that the floor slowly warms up. The water temperature inside the pipes stays constant between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius, so the flow temperature has no impact on the vinyl floor temperature. Furthermore, the water temperature can even be higher than the floor temperature!

Cost of materials for underfloor heating

Before you choose to install underfloor heating, consider what type of flooring you want in your home. Stone or ceramic tiles will give your home the best thermal conductivity. If you have young children or a modern feel, porcelain tile will be the perfect choice. If you prefer hardwood flooring, you should know that hardwood can warp when it is too hot. If you want to install underfloor heating, however, you should know that engineered wood can handle the heat.

Before you start looking for a flooring contractor, know the cost of materials and labor. The labor costs are often as much as 10 percent to 20 percent of the overall budget. DIY installation is an excellent option and can save hundreds of dollars. If you’re not confident about your DIY skills, seek advice from a professional. A professional will be able to determine the cost of materials and labor and give you an estimate.