Hydronic Heating Floor Coverings

For hydronic underfloor radiant heating systems the systematic design process can be described as a 12 step program beginning with the heat loss and ending with the head loss.

Hydronic heating floor coverings.

Radiant heat systems are compatible with any type of floor. Porcelain ceramic and natural stone are the best flooring materials for radiant heating as they encompass all four factors. It works well under cold floor coverings such as marble stone slate polished concrete and all varieties of tiles. Mineral based floor coverings chiefly tile and stone are excellent thermal conductors.

Separated radiant heat zones are controlled by one. Here are the top 4 flooring options for use over radiant heat. Hydronic radiant floor heating systems use a boiler to heat up hot water and a pump to circulate the hot water in plastic pipes installed in a concrete slab. Hydronic floor heating is a great option for large open entertaining areas.

What is hydronic radiant floor heating. Step 1 heat loss q btu hr. Tile and stone do not expand or contract. Hardwoods are also effective.

But beware even if you can easily access all necessary pipework your existing floor coverings may not be the most suitable for underfloor hydronic heating. Some homeowners feel that the water makes the heat feel warmer than if it is conveyed through a dry medium. Floor types and hydronic heating. Additionally carpets vinyl laminates etc.

Step 4 floor coverings. Solid hardwood can easily be damaged by heat and moisture. Generally speaking exposed surfaces such as ceramic tile or finished concrete are the most effective flooring as they are the most conductive. Hydronic radiant floors these systems are by far the most popular and economic among radiant heating systems.

It may also be used under carpet and timber floors although we recommend inquiring with the carpet and timber manufacturers before the installation. Porcelain and ceramic tile are great conductors of heat so your home will get the full benefit of the radiant heating system. This topic is part of our p rofessional development curriculum. The pipes embedded in the floor carry heated water that conducts warmth to the surface of the floor where it broadcasts energy to the room.

Assessing suitability of floor coverings. Tubing is laid under the floor in a specified pattern through which hot water is pumped. The original and largely abandoned in the west method was used most notably in turkish baths and consisted of a raised floor to allow hot air underneath keeping the floor nice and warm. Can be used with good results.