Bottom-line benefits
Offering even heat and better energy efficiency, underfloor heating is an increasingly popular choice for self-builds. Steve Harris of Wavin offers some advice on the practicalities
Why install underfloor heating rather than more conventional heating methods such as radiators What are the benefits
Compared to radiators, underfloor heating is a more subtle and less obtrusive solution when it comes to heating your home. More often than not, radiators are big and bulky and can therefore disrupt the overall look of any given room or space. Underfloor heating also offers improved
thermal comfort compared to conventional heating methods. Radiators, for example, use room air to transfer heat, resulting in uneven warmth and higher temperatures at ceiling height compared to floor level. With underfloor heating, the floor is gently heated by piped warm water and the heating energy is evenly emitted from the floor by natural radiation. Likewise, the process of heat radiation helps
to create a healthier living environment for occupants. The warm floor inhibits the growth of fungi and dust mites meaning less dusts circulates in the air, while maintaining an even distribution of heat.
Is it expensive
Although there is an increased up-front cost to underfloor heating, it can be a more cost- effective solution in some applications. As the temperature required is lower than that of conventional heating, you could see your energy bills decrease by up to 20 per cent. If your build requires low surface temperature radiators, which are considerably more expensive than standard radiators, underfloor heating would be a cheaper option.
What are the challenges of renovation projects for self-builders when it comes to installing underfloor heating
Ease of installation of underfloor heating will very much depend on what lies beneath your floorboards or carpet. For example, if your property has an old, joisted floor, installing an underfloor heating system between existing pan- els can be a challenge and it is likely that the new panels will need to be cut to size. Depending on when it was built, your property may also already feature a screed in which all pipework is buried, posing further challenges.
Is it often complicated and time-consuming to install underfloor heating in a renovation, i.e. do floor heights have to be increased
In most instances, the existing flooring will need
to be lifted to increase its insulation value and as such, it isn’t necessarily more complicated or time-consuming to install underfloor heating as part of a renovation. You can simplify the process by overlaying a system directly on top of the existing floor, however you may need to alter door heights and lift skirting boards to accommodate this. Safety is a key consideration here, especially if adjusting floor heights by stairs as this can change step heights and potentially cause a trip hazard for residents.
How can underfloor heating be installed more quickly
Underfloor heating can often be less labour intensive to fit and therefore quicker than conventional heating methods. Fitting an entire
underfloor heating installation, complete with pipework and manifold, could take up to one day. Boiler connections and electrical works are then required to complete the job. If you’re installing underfloor heating as part
of a floating floor where there is little height build up, the process can be very time-efficient. Panels can be laid directly on top of the existing floor and the conductor pipes and plates are simply ‘walked’ into pre-cut grooves.
Does it need to be done by a specialist installer
You do not need a wealth of plumbing or heating experience to lay and secure an underfloor heating system. However, you should ensure all electrical works and boiler
selfbuilder & homemaker
www.sbhonline.co.uk
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