Best Coverings for Radiant Heated Floors

Best Coverings for Radiant Heated Floors

To best transfer heat from the concrete to your home, you will need to choose options that do not insulate the cement from the inside, all the insulation should be between the outside and the house, not the house and you. Dense options are usually best as they facilitate radiant heat transfer. 


However, I recommend choosing floor coverings from a realistic lifestyle view, as some coverings are too much work or worry, and others are down to earth and low cost. 

Tile & Stone

Advantages:Tile and stone have a high thermal conductivity, meaning that the heat from an underfloor heating pipe or wire transfers to the floor surface quickly. Tile and stone also retain heat well making the system efficient.

Disadvantages: Cost, slipperiness and hardness. In one house I owned the kids were 100% guaranteed to slip and fall should any liquid spill on the tiles, or when I mopped the floor.

Polished, Painted or Epoxied Cement  

Advantages: Keeping it simple, easy to clean and maintain. The heat transfers well and is stored well in the concrete.

Disadvantages: Not plush or fancy, but you can always add rugs. 


Vinyl

Advantages: Keeping it simple, easy to clean and maintain. The heat transfers well and is stored well in the concrete.

Disadvantages: Unless the vinyl is thick, there is no padding between you and the cement, vinyl does wear down and will need replacement. 


Fake Wood

Vinyl plank floors and radiant heating systems work exceptionally well together. There's no risk of damage, nor will you risk voiding your warranty. All you need to do is ensure that your heating system, on average, won't exceed 80-85°F, as this is usually the safe temperature limit for vinyl plank flooring.

Real Wood/Hardwood 

Advantages: Natural Beauty and amazing underfoot texture. Often has some give and resilience for softer landings.

Disadvantages: Need to watch moisture content to prevent gaps or cracks from forming in the wood (moisture too low). If the moisture level is too high you can have warping or cupping. 

For more information This is a great article: https://radiantprofessionalsalliance.org/hidden/hardwood-floors-and-radiant/


Carpet


Advantages: It’s soft, and always warm(er) to the touch then uncarpeted floors. 

Disadvantages: Need to choose a carpet (and any underlayment) with low thermal resistance, or it will keep the heat in the concrete from you feet, and room.

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