Which Type of Flooring is Best for Underfloor Heating?

When choosing flooring for underfloor heating, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance and comfort. First, the material’s thermal conductivity is crucial; flooring that efficiently conducts heat will ensure your space warms up quickly and evenly. Engineered wood and laminate flooring are excellent options due to their good heat conduction properties. Durability is another essential factor, as the flooring must withstand the repeated heating and cooling cycles without warping or damage. Additionally, consider the flooring’s thickness; thinner materials generally conduct heat more effectively than thicker ones. Comfort underfoot is also important, especially in areas where you’ll be standing frequently. Lastly, make sure the flooring is compatible with the specific type of underfloor heating system you plan to install, whether it’s electric or water-based. By carefully considering these aspects, you can select flooring that not only complements your home’s aesthetic but also maximises the efficiency and comfort of your underfloor heating system.

What is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating involves the installation of heated pipes or wires directly beneath your flooring (within your subfloor), allowing heat to radiate upwards and warm-up your home efficiently. This method dates back to Roman times, where they used pillars to create spaces under their floors and moved hot air through these passages to heat the stone floors in their villas.

Today, modern technology has refined this ancient concept into an efficient and cost-effective method of home heating without the need for large gaps beneath the floors. There are two main types of underfloor heating systems: electric and water-based (also known as wet systems).

Electric Underfloor Heating

This system uses thin heating wires placed under the floor surface. When switched on, these wires heat up, radiating warmth upwards through your flooring. Electric underfloor heating is ideal for smaller areas and individual rooms. However, it can be more expensive to operate compared to water-based systems.

Water-Based (Wet) Underfloor Heating

This system comprises pipes filled with warm water, powered by a boiler or heat pump. The pipes are embedded within the subfloor, making it a great option for whole-house heating or new builds. Water-based underfloor heating is generally more cost-effective to run than electric systems and is best suited for larger areas and rooms.

Both systems offer the benefit of even, comfortable heat distribution, enhancing the cosiness and efficiency of your home.

Our Recommendation on The Type of Flooring for Underfloor Heating

Engineered Wood Flooring for Underfloor Heating
Engineered wood stands out due to its layered construction, which provides stability and minimises the risk of warping or shrinking with temperature fluctuations. This type of flooring combines the aesthetic appeal of natural wood with efficient heat conduction. Durability is another critical factor; the flooring must withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles without damage. The thickness of the flooring also matters, thinner materials generally conduct heat more effectively than thicker ones, enhancing the efficiency of your heating system. Comfort underfoot is essential, particularly in areas where you spend a lot of time standing, as underfloor heating can make hard surfaces feel warmer and more inviting. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure the flooring is compatible with your specific underfloor heating system, whether electric or water-based, to guarantee seamless integration and functionality.

Recommended Products:
• Natural Brushed Oiled Oak Engineered Wood Flooring
• Invisible Finish Oak Engineered Wood Flooring
• Natural Brushed Oak Herringbone Engineered Wood Flooring
• Golden Wheat Oak Herringbone Engineered Wood Flooring

Laminate Flooring for Underfloor Heating
Laminate flooring is an excellent choice for underfloor heating due to its durability, affordability, and thermal efficiency. Its construction, featuring a wear-resistant surface, high-density fiberboard core, and stabilising backing layer, allows it to handle the thermal expansion and contraction associated with underfloor systems. Laminate efficiently transfers heat, providing consistent warmth and comfort underfoot, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms. Easy to install with click-lock systems, it offers cost savings and a wide range of styles that mimic natural materials. Additionally, laminate is low maintenance, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping, ensuring a stylish, comfortable, and energy-efficient home.

Recommended Products:
• Bergen Herringbone AC5 Laminate Flooring
• Malmo Herringbone AC5 Laminate Flooring
• Natural Rustic Oak 4V Laminate Flooring
• Ice White Oak 4V Laminate Flooring
• Lumber Oak 4V Groove Laminate Flooring

If you’re looking for more information on the best types of flooring for your kitchen or would like a free consultation please contact us today:

https://www.flooringsurgeons.co.uk/contact-us/

Halesowen
214A Dudley Road. Halesowen, Birmingham, B63 3NJ
0121 274 8575
Monday – Friday: 9AM – 6PM | Weekends: 10AM – 4PM

Wolverhampton
317 Penn Rd, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV4 5QF
01902 836666
Monday – Friday: 9AM – 6PM | Sat: 10AM – 4PM | Sun: Closed

info@flooringsurgeons.co.uk
fitting@flooringsurgeons.co.uk
customerservices@flooringsurgeons.co.uk