Using Timber Flooring with Underfloor Heating
Contrary to common misconceptions, timber flooring can be used with underfloor heating. However, it’s important to note that wood is a natural insulator, so it won’t distribute heat as effectively as materials like tiles or stone. Maple and beech are the only types of wood that are not suitable for use with underfloor heating.
Types of Timber Flooring:
- Solid Hardwood Boards: These may expand slightly in summer and contract in winter due to changes in moisture levels.
- Engineered Laminate Boards: These are more stable than solid wood, featuring cross-bonded ply layers with a thick timber top layer. They are typically supplied at a moisture content of 8-10%, making them suitable for underfloor heating.
Key Recommendations:
- Always confirm with your flooring supplier that the timber is suitable for use with underfloor heating.
- Ensure the timber has a moisture content of 8-10% before installation.
- For timber laid over screed, the screed’s moisture content should not exceed 2%.
- Allow for perimeter expansion gaps as specified by the manufacturer.
- Follow the manufacturer’s technical data and installation instructions carefully.
Performance and Safety Considerations:
- The thickness of the timber flooring will affect the system’s heat output and response time.
- Most wood floors should not exceed a surface temperature of 27°C. UFH systems include floor probes to monitor and control temperatures in areas with timber flooring, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Additional Tips:
- Ensure site conditions are suitable for acclimatizing and laying the timber flooring.
- Avoid using maple and beech, as they are not compatible with underfloor heating.
Underfloor Heating Energy Efficiency
Radiator systems are the modern-day counterpart to traditional fireplaces. They rely on your boiler or heat pump to deliver hot water at temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Celsius, enabling them to radiate heat into the room.
In contrast, water-based underfloor heating operates differently. Imagine a massive radiator seamlessly spread across your entire floor. This system covers the full floor area, allowing it to efficiently distribute heat using much lower water temperatures, typically between 35 and 45 degrees Celsius. This makes underfloor heating a top choice for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Underfloor Heating
Cut down on heating costs, manage your comfort, and future-proof your home.