When the chilling winter sets in, it becomes difficult to walk barefoot on the floor. Therefore, installing the underfloor heating system is the best option. However, laminate flooring is often the first choice when installing a heating system below the floor. The pairing of this type of flooring with floor heating makes walking comfortable during winter. Homeowners need to know all details about the selection of laminate flooring and the installation of the underfloor heating system.
Factors to be considered while choosing laminate flooring
Different varieties of laminate flooring are available for homeowners. But not all laminate floors are compatible with underfloor heating. Only some laminate floors are specifically labelled as suitable for underfloor heating systems. So, buyers need to check the following aspects while choosing the laminate floors.
- Thermal resistance value: When the thermal resistance (R value) of laminate flooring is lower, it signifies the capacity for faster heat transfer. It is suggested that the total thermal resistance of the laminate flooring and the subfloor should not be more than 0.15 m²K/W to get the best function from an underlying heating system.
- Quality of the laminate flooring:: Ideally, the best quality laminate floors with a dense HDF core should be chosen for flooring. These laminate floors are more stable during temperature changes, not contracting or expanding much with the decrease or increase in temperature. However, too-thick laminate flooring can make the heat transfer much slower than required.
- Manufacturer’s guidelines:: All manufacturers of laminate floors mention in their warranty documents whether their laminate floors are compatible with underfloor heating. Hence, buyers should read the warranty terms carefully before selecting laminate flooring.
Preparation of the subfloor with the right materials
The subfloor acts as a bridge between the laminate flooring and the underfloor heating system. Hence, the material used for the subfloor should be chosen carefully. Usually, polyethylene foam, fibreglass or rubber can be used for laying the subfloor. The following qualities of the subfloor are important for the successful functioning of the heating system installed below it –
- Conductivity: The material used as a subfloor should be a good conductor of heat. Its thermal resistance needs to be low enough to provide sufficient heating of the laminate flooring above it. The subfloor should be prepared specifically to be compatible with the heating system installed below it.
- Damp-proof: The material used as a subfloor is usually provided with a layer of damp-proof membrane (DPM). Thus, dampness of the ground will not interfere with the functioning of the underfloor heating system. The laminate boards used for flooring will also be saved from the damage caused by dampness.
- Acoustic reduction: This property of the subfloor is essential for homes in multi-storey buildings to prevent disturbance to people living on the floors below. But it does not compromise with the heat conductivity of the material.
Different types of underfloor heating systems
Usually, two varieties of underfloor heating systems are used in all residential buildings. Both these systems are compatible with laminate flooring if installed correctly.
Electric underfloor heating:
It is a dry system where electric heating cables are carefully installed below the subfloor. It is ideal for small apartments, as it is much easier to install and maintain. Only, it is costlier, as the monthly electric bills will go higher. This system is also preferred while renovating old buildings, as the entire flooring does not need to be changed for its installation. As electricity heats up the floor quickly, it is preferred during the chilly winter.
Water-based underfloor heating:
It is a wet system where hot water is passed through a network of pipes placed below the subfloor. Water is heated in a central boiler or heater and then passed into these pipes. It is suitable for large and new buildings where the flooring is done after setting up the heating system. It is an energy-efficient system and the heat is equally distributed throughout the floor.
Key steps needed to install a heating system below the laminate flooring
First of all, a homeowner needs to choose the right kind of materials for the laminate flooring and the subfloor. Then, the type of underfloor heating system should be chosen. The installation of the heating system should be done by following the steps mentioned below.
- Get the laminate floor boards accustomed: The laminate boards should be kept in the room for at least 48 hours to get the laminate floor adjusted to the room temperature. So, laminate boards should adapt to the room temperature and humidity level to avoid warping.
- Clean and prepare the subfloor: It is essential to thoroughly clean the subfloor to eliminate all dust particles and debris. Then it should be properly levelled, as an uneven surface can cause damage to the heating system and laminate flooring. The subfloor should also be dried to avoid damage to laminate boards. A moisture barrier can be placed if required.
- Install the chosen heating system: It is best to get the heating system installed by an expert professional. The heating cables or pipes should be laid by strictly following the instructions of the manufacturer of the heating system. There should be enough space between the cables or pipes. Overlapping of electric cables should be avoided to prevent the danger of a short circuit.
- Place the underlay and laminate boards: The underlay should be 3mm–6mm thick to allow efficient heat transfer from the heating system to the laminate flooring. A thicker underlay can resist the heat flow. Laminate flooring is also termed a floating floor, as no nails, screws or glue is used to install it. A gap of around 15 mm is left along the perimeter of the room to allow natural expansion of the board when heated.
Wrapping Up
When laminate flooring is paired with an underfloor heating system, the winter days become more enjoyable for residents. This combination offers comfort, warmth and a cosy environment in rooms even during the coldest time of the year.