Most floors are compatible with underfloor heating including laminate, timber and vinyl. Timber floors can be installed with both Hydronic (water through pipes) or electric underfloor heating. Let’s take a look at some things to keep in mind when it comes to timber underfloor heating.

To get the most out of underfloor heating, you need a floor surface with low thermal resistance, which allows the heat to pass through. You can check with the floor supplier that the overall thermal resistance does not exceed 0.15m² K/W. The higher the thermal resistance, the longer it will take for your floor to warm up and the less efficient your underfloor heating will be.

To ensure the best efficiency for your timber underfloor heating we recommend placing an insulating layer below the underfloor heating. This is so that the heat is reflected away from the insulating layer and is conducted through the floor.

Underfloor heating under timber floors is a great way of heating your home, however, there are a few restrictions to keep in mind. With timber floors, the relative humidity of the timber mustn't be reduced to the point of shrinking or warping of the timber. There are heat restrictions noted by your timber floor manufacturer. With smart thermostats, you can set limits to your floor heating so that it does not exceed that temperature.

Note: Always check with floor suppliers on the compatibility of their timber floors and underfloor heating, and recommended temperatures.

For more information or to find out what underflooring heating is best for you click here.