Heated flooring, also known as radiant heating, is a luxurious and energy-efficient option for keeping your home warm during the colder months. It works by using electric cables or hot water tubes that are installed beneath the floor surface to heat the room from the ground up. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about heated flooring.
Types of Heated Flooring
There are two main types of heated flooring: electric and hydronic. Electric radiant heating systems use a series of electric cables or mats that are installed beneath the flooring. These cables are then connected to a thermostat, which controls the temperature of the floor. Hydronic radiant heating systems, on the other hand, use a network of hot water tubes that are installed beneath the floor surface. These tubes are connected to a boiler or water heater, which heats the water and circulates it through the tubes.
Pros and Cons of Heated Flooring
Pros:
- Energy-efficient: Heated flooring is a highly efficient way to heat your home because it warms the room from the ground up, which means that you can turn down the thermostat and still feel warm and comfortable.
- Comfortable: Heated flooring provides a constant and even heat, which eliminates the cold spots and drafts that are common with traditional heating systems.
- Noise-free: Unlike traditional heating systems, heated flooring operates silently, so you won’t have to deal with the noise of a furnace or boiler.
- Space-saving: Since heated flooring is installed beneath the floor surface, it doesn’t take up any wall or floor space, which means that you have more room for furniture and other items.
- Allergy-friendly: Traditional heating systems can circulate dust and other allergens throughout your home, which can be harmful to those with allergies. Heated flooring doesn’t rely on air circulation, so it’s a great option for allergy sufferers.
Cons:
- Installation cost: The cost of installing heated flooring can be higher than that of traditional heating systems, especially if you’re retrofitting an existing home.
- Installation time: Installing heated flooring can be a time-consuming process, especially if you’re installing a hydronic system.
- Incompatible flooring: Some types of flooring are not suitable for heated flooring, such as hardwood floors that are less than ¾ inch thick. This can limit your options when it comes to choosing flooring for your home.
- Maintenance: While heated flooring requires little maintenance, if any of the components break or malfunction, it can be difficult and expensive to repair.
Suitable Flooring Options for Heated Flooring
When it comes to choosing flooring for your heated flooring system, there are a few options to consider. Here are some of the most suitable flooring options:
- Tile: Tile is one of the most popular choices for heated flooring because it conducts heat well and retains it for a long time. Plus, it’s easy to clean and is available in a wide range of styles and colors.
- Stone: Similar to tile, stone is a great option for heated flooring because it conducts heat well and retains it for a long time. It’s also durable and easy to maintain.
- Vinyl: Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for heated flooring because it’s affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Plus, it’s a great option for rooms that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
- Laminate: Laminate flooring is another affordable option for heated flooring, and it’s available in a wide range of styles and colors. However, it’s important to choose a laminate that is suitable for use with heated flooring, as some types can warp or buckle under the heat.