Underfloor heating manufacturer and specialist Polypipe offers straightforward technical guidance to follow when selecting a water-based system for any project at hand.
HEAT FROM BENEATH
Water-based underfloor heating systems provide an energy- efficient alternative to radiator-based heating with lower costs and a greater capacity to control the heat within rooms, no matter the size. However, in order for the end user to benefit from all of these advantages, it is essential to get the installation right.
There are three main types of water-based underfloor heating systems available to meet the technical requirements of any domestic project: an in-floor system, between-joist system and over-floor system.
IN-FLOOR SYSTEMS In-floor systems are ideal for completely new floors, such as a new-build or an extension, and can be installed within a solid or screeded floor surface. Polypipe offers three variations of the in-floor systems including a unique red floor panel system and established clip rail or staple systems which can be fitted directly onto insultation.
The red floor panel system forms a simple grid to ensure the fastest possible pipe laying and also provides a precise guide for the pipe, ensuring that the minimum pipe bending radius is achieved.
BETWEEN-JOIST SYSTEMS Underfloor heating has adapted and evolved to provide installers with solutions to fitting the system in tight spaces and on upper floors of houses. Between-joist systems, which avoid adding height to existing floor as it is fitted between existing joists, are ideal for renovations and extension projects.
There is a wide choice of between-joist systems available on the market, but the pre-configured modular heating panels are designed for quick and easy installation and can provide a good starting point for heating engineers.
The systems are positioned within the suspended floor void, and, with the government pushing for a Future Homes Standard, many between-joist systems are compatible with heat pumps or allow for the full system to run effectively at lower temperatures, for optimum energy efficiency.
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OVER-FLOOR SYSTEM If the project is based on existing solid or timber deck floors an over-floor system provides and easy to fit alternative. These lowprofile systems are often the go-to choice for whole house or single room projects.
The pipes are laid in pre-grooved panels sandwiched between the structural floor and the chosen floorcovering. Installation is simple without adding significant floor height gain or requiring the excavation of the existing floor. The over-floor systems are often fast response systems which provides the end user with a system that can be controlled quickly and effectively, without requiring time to warm a large area.
FLOORCOVERINGS ADVICE Underfloor heating will work efficiently with any floorcovering as long as it is well insulated underneath. Though harder surfaces offer better conductivity and therefore better heat output rates. Underfloor heating will turn stone, ceramic marble or flagstone floors into warm surfaces, but it is crucial that the final installation of the floor structure is stable and rigid.
Carpets remain the preferred way to cover floors but, with underfloor heating systems, it is important to avoid fitting carpets with felt or rubber crumb underlay. These materials can restrict the effectiveness of the system as they prevent heat transfer. Sponge or waffle pattern moulded based underlay will work best and homeowners should be advised that a TOG value of 0.5 is the maximum recommended.
Laminate flooring is the easiest to install over a heating system and is ideal for bathroom and kitchen spaces, while vinyl flooring – which is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and quality – is sensitive to long-term exposure to heat which puts temperature limits on a system. Most underfloor heating manufacturers, including Polypipe, can offer advice on best options before installation.
www.polypipe.com UNDERFLOOR HEATING | 23
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