Floor Coverings for Under Floor Heating

Popular myth has it that underfloor heating can only be used with tiled or solid floors (e.g. stone). This is incorrect. Across Europe and the UK many thousands of homes enjoy the comfort of under floor heating with wood and carpeted floors.

Tiles / Stone / Slate

Underfloor heating systems turn a cold tiled / stone / slate floor into a gently warmed surface, so no more cold feet.

We advise that a small expansion gap is left around the perimeter of the room, filled with a flexible sealant.

Wood Floors

Most wood floors suit underfloor heating but they need to be conditioned / acclimatised to the correct moisture content. If the timber is too dry, moisture will be absorbed and the timber will swell and warp: if the timber is too damp you will get shrinkage, leaving gaps between the boards.

Another factor to consider is thickness – you should aim for a finish that is less than 22mm thick. There is no need to cover the floor before hand with plywood because this acts as an insulating layer. Likewise fixing battens onto a heated floor leaving an air gap between the floor and the underside of the floor covering is inadvisable because air is an excellent insulator.

So the trick is to ensure your floor is conditioned properly, and fitted to suit underfloor heating.

Click here to see how.

Floor construction to suit under floor heating
Installation of under floor heating