taxur_pic

Electric Underfloor Heating Vs. Water-based Underfloor Heating Systems

When it comes to choosing the best underfloor heating system for engineered wood flooring, there are two main options – electric and water-based. Electric UFH systems require wiring beneath the flooring, while water-based UFH uses pipes with hot water running through them. Both systems provide efficient heat distribution and comfort but they have their own unique pros and cons.

Electric UFH is a cost effective option as it requires less installation time and can be powered by a low voltage circuit. However, electric UFH tends to be less powerful than water-based systems and can struggle to meet high heat requirements in large spaces.

Pros and Cons of Using Engineered Wood Flooring for Underfloor Heating

Engineered wood flooring is an ideal choice when considering underfloor heating, as it offers many advantages. It has superior thermal conductivity compared to solid wood flooring, meaning heat will be more evenly distributed across the room. Additionally, engineered wood floors are usually thinner than solid wood which helps to reduce the amount of heat loss that can occur. On the downside, it is important to make sure that engineered wood flooring is properly acclimatised before installation over a UFH system, as too much moisture can cause warping or cracking. Furthermore, careful consideration should be given to insulation in order to prevent unnecessary energy wastage from occurring.

What Needs To Be Considered When Using Engineered Wood Flooring Over Underfloor Heating?

When installing underfloor heating with engineered wood flooring, several factors must be taken into account. Thermal conductivity of the floor should be considered, as well as its thickness and the limits of heat transfer. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the moisture content and humidity of the engineered wood remain within a safe range for use with UFH systems. The temperature limitation of wooden flooring should also be factored in when deciding on an appropriate system. Lastly, it is essential to consider the importance of insulation in order to protect both your UFH system and your floors from damage.

 

Acclimatisation of Engineered Wood Floor

Before installing an engineered wood floor, it is important to allow the flooring to acclimatise. This process helps the wooden planks adjust to the humidity and temperature of the room, reducing movement once laid and helping prevent damage. The timber should be left in its packaging for a minimum of 48 hours at normal room temperature, allowing it to adapt before being installed. It is also essential that any existing heating system or air conditioning is turned off during this period as sudden changes in temperatures can cause swelling or shrinkage of the planks which could lead to warping.

Thermal Conductivity of Engineered Wood Flooring

The thermal conductivity of engineered wood flooring is an important factor when installing underfloor heating. Poor thermal conductivity can lead to inadequate heat distribution and inefficient use of energy, resulting in increased running costs. It’s essential that the wooden floor you choose has a high level of thermal conductivity to ensure the best results from your UFH system. When choosing an engineered wood floor for UFH installation, make sure it has a higher than average rating for thermal conductivity. This will help to maximise the efficiency of your system and minimise energy consumption over time.

Floor Thickness

When installing underfloor heating with engineered wood flooring, the thickness of the floor is an important factor to consider. Too thick a floor can reduce heat transfer and limit the efficiency of your system, while too thin a floor can cause it to overheat. The optimal floor thickness for underfloor heating is usually between 18mm-22mm. Kiln dried timber is recommended as this will provide better insulation and help to prevent warping or shrinking when heated.

Limits of Heat Transfer

There are limits to the amount of heat that can be transferred. This is due to a combination of factors, such as the thermal conductivity of engineered wood floors, the thickness of the floor and its moisture content. As wooden flooring can expand or contract in response to changes in temperature and humidity, it’s important to consider these limits when planning your UFH system. The temperature limitation for engineered oak flooring should not exceed 27°C while maximum temperatures for wooden flooring generally range between 24-27°C. Insulation is also essential in order to ensure an even spread of heat throughout the room.

Need help? Talk to Our Experts

We Are Also Available to Offer Heat Pumps Related Advice

To find out more about our services, get free quotations, or arrange an appointment, call this number 0204 586 6171.

Our Guarantee

  • Over Six Years Experience
  • Unrivaled Experience
  • An Exceptional Service
  • Unbeatable Value For Money
  • Industry-approved Scaffolders
  • A Full Range of Heat Pumps Services
  • Professional, Reliable and Diligent
  • 100% Safety and Satisfaction

Moisture Content of Wood Floors

It is important to be aware of the moisture content in the wooden flooring. The moisture content should be no higher than 12% when using engineered wood floors with underfloor heating. If the moisture content is too high, this could lead to warping and cracking in the wood, which can be detrimental to the performance of your underfloor heating system. A reputable flooring supplier should be able to provide you with detailed information on the appropriate moisture content for your specific type of engineered wood flooring.

Humidity On Engineered Wood Floor

Humidity levels can have a significant impact on the installation of underfloor heating for engineered wood flooring. When humidity levels are too high, it can cause the wood to expand, leading to buckling and gaps in the floor coverings. The ideal humidity range is between 30-60%, and when this is not maintained it can cause damage to both the wooden flooring and the UFH system. In order to avoid these issues, homeowners should invest in an effective dehumidifier or humidifier system, as well as a thermostat with accurate humidity readings. This will help ensure that your UFH system and engineered wood floors are properly protected from moisture-related damage.

The Temperature Limitation Of Wooden Flooring

The temperature limitation of engineered wood flooring is important to consider. It is important to remember that laminate and engineered wooden floors are not as resistant to heat as other materials such as tiles or vinyl, and so must be heated within a lower temperature range. This is typically between 18-27°C, with some manufacturers suggesting a maximum of 27°C. Going above this could cause warping, buckling or cracking of the floor due to thermal expansion. When installing UFH on an engineered wood floor it is therefore essential to ensure that the system does not exceed these limits for optimum performance and longevity.

 

The Importance of Insulation For Engineered Wood Underfloor Heating

Insulation is essential for underfloor heating systems installed with engineered wood flooring. The type of insulation used needs to be suitable for suspended timber floors, timber flooring, engineered wooden floorboards and parquet flooring as well as other types of wooden floors. Proper insulation helps reduce heat loss and improves the efficiency of your UFH system. It also prevents moisture from rising up into the room and protects the wooden floors from damage caused by temperature fluctuations. To ensure that your UFH installation works correctly it’s important to choose an appropriate underlay with good thermal properties so that heat is evenly distributed throughout the room.

Choosing an Underlay for Your Engineered Wood Underfloor Heating

When choosing an underlay for engineered wood underfloor heating, it is important to consider the temperature and moisture of the floor construction. Pipe temperature controlled systems should be used with a floor temperature sensor to monitor the heat transfer in order to maintain an even temperature across the floor. An expansion gap between the edge of the engineered wood flooring and walls should also be left, as this allows for any movement caused by changing temperatures. The correct underlay will help ensure maximum efficiency from your UFH system.

Maximum Temperatures For Engineered Wood Underfloor Heating

When using underfloor heating with engineered wood floors, it is important to pay attention to the temperature. The maximum surface temperature of the floor should not exceed 27°C, while the boiler temperature should be kept below 45°C. This will help ensure that your engineered flooring is not damaged by the heat and that you get the best results from your underfloor heating system. It is also important to use an appropriate insulation board or other material beneath the floor to prevent any heat loss and protect your engineered wood flooring.

Using a Thermostat with Engineered Wood Underfloor Heating

Using a thermostat to control the temperature of your engineered wood floor is essential. Without one, you risk overheating the floor, which can lead to buckling and damage to the boards. With a thermostat, you can maintain a consistent temperature across suspended floors or on top of concrete screeds without worrying about exceeding safe temperatures for your flooring. The thermostat also allows you to adjust the pipe temperature, allowing for more accurate heat transfer in rooms where humidity levels may vary. Make sure that skirting boards are fitted around the edges of your room before using an underfloor heating system with engineered wood flooring.

Costs of Heating Engineered Wood Floors

Underfloor heating for engineered wood flooring can be expensive, as the installation of a hot water system requires specialist knowledge and skill. The cost of installing an underfloor heating system with an engineered wood floor will depend on the type of UFH system used, including air gaps and pumps/pump racks. Sub-floor preparation is also essential when laying down any kind of underfloor heating, so additional costs may be incurred here. Ultimately, it’s important to factor in all these associated costs when considering using underfloor heating with your engineered wood flooring.

Why Choose Mittens Underfloor Heating London for Engineered Wood Underfloor Heating Systems?

Mittens Underfloor Heating London provides engineered wood underfloor heating systems with many benefits. With a maximum temperature of 30°C, it helps prevent excess moisture in the boards and prevents hot spots. It also has narrow boards, which means less maintenance instructions are needed and the top layer of the floor is suitable for all surface finishes. Building regulations state that any flooring used must be completely dry before it can become fully operational. The heat water system provided by Mittens Underfloor Heating London ensures that this requirement is met and allows the room to heat up faster than with thermostats alone. As such, Mittens Underfloor Heating London provides one of the best solutions for engineered wood underfloor heating available.

Latest Blog

Need help with Underfloor Heating?

Get in touch with us through the form on this website or give us a call today and we will talk you through what you need. We will tailor heat pump quotes to your exact requirements and ensure that all regulations are met throughout the process.