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When designing or renovating a home, choosing the right type of flooring is an important decision that impacts both aesthetics and functionality. An increasing number of homeowners are also opting to install radiant floor heating systems under their wood, tile or vinyl floors to provide supplemental warmth. Heated floors have a number of benefits including improved energy efficiency, even heat distribution and added comfort.
Types of Heated Floor Systems
There are a few main types of radiant floor heating systems to consider for use under wood, tile and vinyl floor options.
Electric Radiant Heat Systems: These systems use electric heating cables or mats that are laid out on the subfloor and then covered by the flooring material. They provide clean, even heat and are relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice. The mats come in different sizes and watt densities to work with any floor plan.
Hydronic Radiant Heat: Hydronic systems pump heated water from a boiler through tubing installed underneath the floor. They tend to be the most efficient radiant heat option but also the most complex and expensive to install. Hydronic systems require additional mechanical equipment including a water heater or boiler.
Heated Wood Floor Options
Wood floors can accentuate a home with natural warmth and rich textures. Pairing wood flooring with an efficient radiant heating system creates a comfortably heated living space.
A few things to note with wood flooring over radiant heat:
- Not all wood floors are suitable for radiant heating so check manufacturer guidelines. Solid hardwoods work well while engineered floors with too many laminations may warp or weaken over time.
- The subfloor should be flat and stable to minimize expansion and contraction of the wood from heating and cooling cycles.
- Use exterior-grade plywood over a radiant floor system to better handle heating. Avoid softwoods like pine.
- Attach the flooring properly to allow for expansion. Check radiant heat system specifications for recommended installation methods based on the flooring.
Heated Tile Floor Options
Tile also goes well with radiant floor heat—the dense material readily absorbs and conducts the warmth from electric or hydronic heating systems installed beneath it. Common types of tiles used with heated floors include porcelain, ceramic and natural stone like slate, granite and travertine.
Benefits of tile over heated floors:
- Efficient heat transfer and conductivity
- Long-lasting, easy-to-clean surface for high-traffic areas
- Moisture resistant
- Many style and material options available including stone, ceramic, quartz and porcelain
Heated Vinyl Floor Options
Luxury vinyl and rigid core vinyl plank floors are also suitable for pairing with concealed radiant heat systems. Benefits include:
Vinyl radiant heating considerations:
- Cheaper to install and maintain than wood or tile
- Vinyl expands and contracts so check system requirements and leave proper expansion space
- 100% waterproof, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms
- Easy underfloor access as vinyl floors can be cut without damage for subfloor repairs
Best Layouts for Radiant Floor Heating
Proper layout of radiant floor heating components is vital to maximizing heat efficiency and comfort. Systems are typically arranged in zones to allow different temperatures in living areas versus bedrooms or bathrooms.
Additional guidelines:
- Centralize hydronic manifolds and water lines for the least temperature variance
- Locate thermostat sensors in representative rooms without cold drafts or direct heat sources. Multiple sensors may be required depending on the floorplan.
- Install larger heating cables or PEX tubing lines under cold surfaces like exterior walls or large windows
When properly installed, radiant floor heating systems deliver luxurious warmth and comfort under various floor coverings. Consider the pros, cons and layout requirements before selecting the best heated floor option for your home.