EXPERT VIEW USING UNDERFLOOR HEATING

Underfloor heating has many advantages: it negates the need for radiators, which makes planning a layout easier; it keeps a more constant temperature because it distributes heat better; and the heat within a space is maintained more easily. However, it isn’t instantly reactive – it will take time to increase or decrease the temperature in a room.

Stone works really well with underfloor heating as it retains warmth, making for a comfortable feel underfoot, and is particularly successful in bathrooms and kitchens. All flooring has a heat tolerance: with laminate, engineered and solid wood floors make sure you check the tolerance of the product, as well as what size expansion joints are required to allow for movement. If the heating temperature is set higher than the tolerance of the floor, it will cause the timber to pop or warp, which could mean it has to be replaced.

We prefer water-based systems as they work best for heating the whole house or a large proportion of a house. Electric systems are good if you want a separate system within a bathroom or if you don’t have enough space to house the heating manifolds.

When thinking about the overall look of an underfloor-heated room, it may be worth considering adding a distinct design feature, such as a traditional cast-iron radiator, which can look very attractive.