UNDERFLOOR HEATING


which is pumped through plastic pipes laid beneath the floor. This type of heating helps to reduce water- heating costs as it uses water at a lower temperature than that of radiators.


Where can underfloor heating be used?


Once restricted to bathrooms and conservatories, underfloor heating has fast emerged as more of a whole- house solution; so installers shouldn’t be afraid to advise customers on using it in different areas of the home. For example, a hallway or a lounge with underfloor heating can create a warm and welcoming entrance to a home. In fact, underfloor heating can be used to heat the entire home, or to simply provide warmth in small areas, such as bathrooms or utility rooms.


When used under a tiled floor, the installer needs to think carefully about the insulation and type of tile that will be laid over the top of it. Natural stone, ceramic and porcelain tiles are all ideal options for use with underfloor heating, due to their high thermal mass and strong conductivity, which allows heat from the heating pipes or electric heating elements to easily transfer to the floor’s surface. However, consideration needs to be given to the thickness of the tile or stone used, as this will affect the length of time it takes for the floor to reach optimum temperature.


What are the design benefits of


Typically, underfloor heating is more than enough as a standalone form of heating; however, it’s important to remember that its capabilities will often be dictated by other factors, such as the house insulation levels. This could mean additional heating may be necessary and something for installers and their clients to bear in mind.


What are the different types of


underfloor heating? It’s important to note that there are two types of underfloor heating systems, electric and hydronic:


Electric system - An electric system (such as the Warmup Promat exclusive to Topps Tiles) runs on a dry structure which uses electric elements and a series of cables strategically laid out underneath the tiles. These are connected together and linked up to the thermostat and mains power supply to provide heat.


Hydronic system – This method of underfloor heating uses warm water from the central heating system


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underfloor heating? Both Electric and Hydronic underfloor heating brings greater design freedom in all areas of the home, as it removes the need for unsightly radiators and pipes. This means walls are left clutter-free eliminating restrictions when it comes to room design, an important consideration for increasingly style-conscious homeowners. While traditional heating methods, such as radiators, generate heat which is above head level creating the sensation of a ‘stuffy’ atmosphere, underfloor heating systems offer a way to heat a room, from the ground up, so very little heat is wasted. As such, it’s a great alternative to traditional heating methods as it gives householders more usable floor space.


It’s no surprise that wet rooms are surging in popularity. A wet room is the perfect way for homeowners to create a stylish aesthetic in the home and a great way for installers to capitalise on underfloor heating. Most homes can incorporate a wet room, either in a main bathroom by taking out the bath or converting a smaller bathroom. A spacious and contemporary addition that is also likely to add value to a property. And of-course underfloor heating is most compatible with tiles, so this is the perfect way to create a warm and welcoming environment as well as making a style statement.


Underfloor heating is hugely popular with consumers, so installers and tilers should make sure they aren’t missing out when it comes to offering it. At a time when home improvement is on the up and more homeowners are opting to stay in their homes for longer, all avenues for profit such as this should be explored.


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