Radiant floor heating can be used with almost all types of flooring, even carpet. Research by the Carpet Foundation has shown that any carpet can be used over underfloor heating without impairing the performance of the system, providing that the carpet and underlay have a thermal resistance of less than 2.5 tog. New indications show that for the majority of carpet styles the thermal resistance will be less than 1 tog.
Over the past few years, as these flooring materials have become more fashionable, there has been an increase in the number of homes using underfloor heating. Heat-up time depends on the thickness of the tiles. Thick flagstones will take longer to reach optimum temperature, but once this is reached there’s no difference in heat quality between thick or thinner floor surfaces.
Radiant floor heating is suitable for use with many types of timber flooring, but most installers stipulate that the timber be specifically recommended for underfloor heating use. The flooring sh
ould have a top temperature restriction (usually 27C) and an expansion gap needs to be left around the edges (this is easily hidden by a skirting board or trim).
Most reputable manufacturers offer timber suitable for underfloor heating, but always liaise with the flooring supplier and heating installer before making your purchase. Many suppliers will recommend a specific brand of electric floor heating and it’s a good idea to listen to their advice.
Underfloor heating can be used with high-quality vinyls and laminates, such as those from Amtico, Polyflor and Karndean International. Not all laminates or vinyls are compatible with radiant floor heating, so it’s a good idea to check with the flooring manufacturer or the heating installer before committing. Many suppliers have developed their own underfloor heating systems, or have one or two that they recommend.
