Are you planning to install heated floors in your home or office? If so, you may be wondering what type of flooring is suitable for use with this system. Choosing the right flooring is essential to ensure that the heat generated by the system is distributed evenly and efficiently throughout the room. Here are five key points to consider when looking for flooring for heated floors:
1. Compatibility: Not all types of flooring are suitable for use with heated floors. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a flooring material that is compatible with the system you are using.
2. Conductivity: The flooring material's thermal conductivity determines how efficiently it transfers heat from the floor to the room. Materials with high thermal conductivity, such as ceramic or stone tiles, are ideal for use with heated floors.
3. Durability: Heated floors can increase the temperature of the flooring material, which can cause some materials to expand and contract. Therefore, it is essential to choose a durable flooring material that can withstand these temperature changes.
4. Installation: The installation process of the flooring material should be considered, as some materials require more installation time and cost than others.
5. Aesthetics: Finally, the flooring material's aesthetics should be taken into account, as it is an essential aspect of the room's overall design.
In summary, when looking for flooring for heated floors, ensure that it is compatible with the system, has high thermal conductivity, is durable, easy to install, and aesthetically pleasing. By considering these factors, you can choose the right flooring material that will work efficiently and effectively with your heated floor system.
10 Best Flooring For Heated Floors
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1. Schluter Ditra Heat Kit: 26.7 Sf, 120v With Touchscreen Thermostat, Heating Cable, Ditra Heat Sheets, And 2 Floor Sensors.
The Schluter DITRA HEAT DHEKRT12040 is a complete floor heating system that includes everything needed to create a warm and inviting space. This kit is designed to cover 27 square feet of flooring space and is powered by a 120V electrical connection. It features a Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat that allows users to control the temperature of their floor heating system with ease.
The kit includes a Heating cable that is designed to be installed directly under the floor covering. This cable is designed to provide even and consistent heating throughout the covered area. The Schluter DITRA HEAT DHEKRT12040 also includes 5 Ditra Heat sheets, each measuring 8.4 square feet. These sheets are designed to provide a stable and secure substrate for the heating cable and are easy to install.
In addition to the heating cable and Ditra Heat sheets, the Schluter DITRA HEAT DHEKRT12040 also includes 2 Floor sensors. These sensors are designed to monitor the temperature of the floor and provide feedback to the Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat, allowing for precise temperature control.
The Schluter DITRA HEAT DHEKRT12040 is designed for use in a variety of applications, including bathrooms, kitchens, and other living spaces where a warm and inviting floor is desired. The kit is easy to install and can be used with a variety of floor coverings, including tile, stone, and hardwood.
Overall, the Schluter DITRA HEAT DHEKRT12040 is a high-quality floor heating system that provides reliable and consistent heating in any room. With its easy installation and precise temperature control, this kit is the perfect addition to any home or commercial space looking to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
2. Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit – 145 Sq. Ft. With Wifi Thermostat, Membrane, Cable, Tools, And Additive.
The Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is a comprehensive solution for interior floor warming applications. With a coverage of 145 square feet, it includes a range of components designed to ensure a safe, reliable and efficient installation.
At the heart of the system is the DHEHK240145 DITRA HEAT CABLE, which has been specially designed to integrate with the Ditra-heat uncoupling membrane. This cable can be installed without returning to the thermostat and produces virtually zero electromagnetic fields, ensuring a comfortable and safe heating experience.
To control the heating system, the kit includes a WiFi Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat. This thermostat has six programming periods per day and a set-up wizard, making it easy to set up and use. The Wi-Fi functionality allows the Ditra-Heat floor warming system to be controlled from a mobile app or online, providing convenience and flexibility for users.
The kit also includes 176.5 square feet of Ditra Heat Membrane, which is a polypropylene membrane with a cutback stud structure and an anchoring fleece laminated to the underside. This membrane is designed to secure the DITRA-HEAT-E-HK electric floor heating cables and provide uncoupling, waterproofing, vapor management and support to ensure a long lasting installation.
To enhance the efficiency of the heating system, the kit includes a Thermal Pack that eliminates cold spots between wire. This means that thermal heat diffusion is increased by 20% while reducing energy costs by 15% since heat is transferred faster and more uniformly. Six bags of Thermal Pack are included in the kit, and it must be used with grey color modified mortars (thinset).
Safety is a top priority with the Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit. It includes either Nuheat MatSense Pro OR SunTouch Loudmouth monitor electric fault indicator, which sounds an alarm if the heating wire is cut or damaged, identifying a problem with the installation before the heat wire is tiled over. The kit also includes a Suntouch plastic 3/8" x 1/2" U-notch cable trowel that is designed specifically for heat cables installation and eliminates the risk of damaging the heating cable while applying mortar.
Overall, the Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is a complete solution for interior floor warming applications. With a focus on safety, efficiency and ease of use, it provides users with a comfortable and reliable heating experience.
3. Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit – 225 Sq. Ft. With Wifi Thermostat, Heat Membrane, Cable, Tools, And Additive.
The Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is an all-in-one solution for interior floor warming applications. The kit includes 225 square feet of Ditra-heat uncoupling membrane, 240v 225 sq ft DHEHK240225 DITRA HEAT CABLE, a WiFi touchscreen programmable thermostat, heat enhancing additive, and safe installation tools.
The DHEHK240225 DITRA HEAT CABLE is specially designed for integration with the Ditra-heat uncoupling membrane. The cables can be installed without returning to the thermostat and produce virtually zero electromagnetic fields. This ensures a safe and efficient installation process for the user.
The WiFi touchscreen programmable thermostat, DHERT104/BW, is designed to control radiant floor heating cables. It has six programming periods per day, a set-up wizard, and an energy log. The Wi-Fi functionality allows the Ditra-Heat floor warming system to be controlled from a mobile app or online. It also has a built-in 5 mA ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and works with 120-Volt and 240-Volt cables.
The Ditra-heat uncoupling membrane is a polypropylene membrane with a cutback stud structure and an anchoring fleece laminated to the underside. It is designed to secure the DITRA-HEAT-E-HK electric floor heating cables and provide uncoupling, waterproofing, vapor management, and support to ensure a long-lasting installation.
The thermal pack included in the kit eliminates cold spots between wire, meaning that thermal heat diffusion is increased by 20%. This results in reduced energy costs by 15% since heat is transferred faster and more uniformly. Eight bags of thermal pack are included in the kit, and they must be used with grey color modified mortars (thinset).
Safety is a top priority in the installation process, and the kit includes either the Nuheat MatSense Pro or SunTouch Loudmouth monitor electric fault indicator. This device sounds an alarm if the heating wire is cut or damaged, identifying a problem with the installation before the heat wire is tiled over. The Suntouch plastic 3/8" x 1/2" U-notch cable trowel is designed specifically for heat cables installation and eliminates the risk of damaging the heating cable while applying mortar.
Overall, the Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is a comprehensive solution for interior floor warming applications. It includes everything needed for a safe and efficient installation process, and the added features such as the WiFi thermostat and thermal pack enhance the performance of the system while reducing energy costs.
4. Electric Radiant Floor Heating Kit With Touch Screen Thermostat For 240v Under Tile, Stone, And Laminate – Includes Self-Adhesive Heat Mat And Cable Monitor.
LuxHeat introduces its 200 Sqft Mat Kit (240v), an electric radiant floor heating system that provides luxury and comfort to homes. The kit includes a self-adhesive heating mat, touch screen programmable thermostat with GFCI and cable monitor, and is suitable for installation under tile, stone and laminate surfaces.
The LuxHeat 200 Sqft Mat Kit is designed for effortless installation, with a 3" pre-spaced electric floor heating mat that can be easily cut and turned, flipped or rotated to provide warmth where needed. The mat also features self-adhesive mesh on one side and double-sided tape on the other, ensuring a flat and secure installation even when flipped. However, it is important to note that the red heater wire should not be cut or shortened and must be embedded in a self-levelling underlayment, thinset or mortar.
With over 50 years of experience in the floor heating industry, LuxHeat ensures quality and expertise in its products and services. The LuxHeat team offers a wide range of heating products backed by unparalleled customer service. The LuxHeat 25-year limited warranty provides peace of mind and assurance of performance for many years to come.
The OJ Microline UDG4-4999 touch screen programmable thermostat is included in the LuxHeat 200 Sqft Mat Kit. It offers a sleek, modern design with intuitive control, making it easy to install and use. The 240-volt, 15-amp thermostat includes an integrated Class A GFCI (ground fault protection) and features dual sensing(AF), power logging, child lock, self-learning, and more. The 7-day program schedule provides maximum comfort while reducing operating costs. The thermostat also comes with a 3-year factory warranty and is cULus approved for USA & Canada.
The LuxHeat 200 Sqft Mat Kit provides ample coverage, with a mat size of 200 Sqft (20" wide x 122.0ft long). The voltage is 240, with amps of 10.0 and watts of 2400 @ 12w/sqft. The LuxHeat Dual wire technology with aluminum shield reduces electromagnetic fields (EMF) to ultra-low levels. All LuxHeat Cables are UL certified and listed as safe for wet locations. The heating wires are 1/8" in diameter, ensuring minimal effect on finished floor level.
Overall, the LuxHeat 200 Sqft Mat Kit is an easy-to-install electric floor heating system that provides luxury and comfort to homes. With its quality and experience in the floor heating industry, LuxHeat ensures customer satisfaction and peace of mind with its 25-year limited warranty.
5. Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit – 64 Sq. Ft. – Includes Thermostat, Membrane, Cable, Tools, And Additive.
The Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is a comprehensive solution for interior floor warming applications. This kit includes a DHEHK12064 Ditra Heat Cable, specially designed for integration with the Ditra-heat uncoupling membrane. The cables can be installed without returning to the thermostat and produce virtually zero electromagnetic fields.
The Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat, DHERT102/BW, is designed to control radiant floor heating cables. With six programming periods per day, a set-up wizard, and an energy log, it offers the flexibility and convenience needed to manage indoor heating effectively. It has a built-in 5 mA ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and works with 120-Volt and 240-Volt cables.
The kit also includes a 92.4 sq ft Ditra Heat Membrane, which is made of polypropylene with a cutback stud structure and an anchoring fleece laminated to the underside. The membrane is designed to secure the DITRA-HEAT-E-HK electric floor heating cables and provide uncoupling, waterproofing, vapor management, and support to ensure a long-lasting installation.
To enhance thermal heat diffusion, the kit includes three bags of Thermal Pack. This additive eliminates cold spots between wires, increasing thermal heat diffusion by 20%, while reducing energy costs by 15%. It must be used with grey color modified mortars (thinset).
To ensure safety during installation, the kit includes either Nuheat MatSense Pro or SunTouch Loudmouth monitor electric fault indicator. These devices sound an alarm if the heating wire is cut or damaged, identifying a problem with the installation before the heat wire is tiled over. The SunTouch plastic 3/8" x 1/2" U-notch cable trowel is designed specifically for heat cable installation and eliminates the risk of damaging the heating cable while applying mortar.
In conclusion, the Schluter Ditra Signature Floor Heating Kit is a complete solution for indoor floor warming applications. With its advanced technology and comprehensive safety features, it is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve indoor heating efficiency and comfort.
Best Flooring For Heated Floors FAQs
Are there any specific installation requirements for flooring used with heated floors?
Yes, there are specific installation requirements for flooring used with heated floors. When installing flooring over a radiant heating system, it is important to choose a flooring material that can withstand the heat without warping or cracking. Some flooring materials, such as hardwood and carpet, are not recommended for use with radiant heating systems. Instead, materials like ceramic tile, porcelain tile, and luxury vinyl tile are better options.
In addition, it is important to ensure that the subfloor is properly prepared before installing the flooring. This includes installing a suitable underlayment and ensuring that the subfloor is level and free of any debris or imperfections. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully to ensure that the flooring is installed correctly and will not be damaged by the heat. Finally, it is recommended to have the radiant heating system installed and tested by a professional before installing the flooring to ensure that it is working properly.
Can all types of flooring be used with heated floors?
Not all types of flooring can be used with heated floors. The flooring material must have the ability to conduct heat efficiently without being damaged. Some flooring types that are compatible with heated floors include ceramic tiles, natural stone, and engineered wood. Porcelain tiles are also an excellent option as they are denser and more durable than ceramic tiles. However, it's important to note that some types of natural stone like marble and limestone are more prone to cracking when exposed to extreme temperatures. Laminate, carpet and vinyl are not recommended for use with heated floors. Carpet and vinyl can melt under high temperatures, while laminate can warp due to the expansion and contraction caused by the heat. It is always recommended to consult with a professional flooring installer to determine the best flooring option for your heated floors.
How do different types of flooring affect the efficiency and performance of a radiant heating system?
The type of flooring used in a building can have a significant impact on the efficiency and performance of a radiant heating system. Hardwood flooring, for example, has a low thermal conductivity which means it takes longer to heat up and cool down. This can result in slower response times and higher energy consumption. On the other hand, tile and concrete flooring have high thermal conductivity, which means they can heat up and cool down quickly, resulting in faster response times and lower energy consumption.
Carpet and other soft flooring materials can also affect the performance of a radiant heating system. They act as insulators, reducing the amount of heat transferred from the pipes to the room. As a result, more energy is required to maintain the desired temperature. In contrast, thinner, low-pile carpets or rugs can still allow heat to transfer while providing some insulation.
Ultimately, it is important to choose flooring materials that are compatible with radiant heating systems to ensure the highest level of efficiency and performance.
How does the thickness of flooring affect the effectiveness of a radiant heating system?
The thickness of flooring can significantly impact the efficiency of a radiant heating system. Thicker flooring materials, such as hardwood or tile, create a barrier that inhibits the transfer of heat from the radiant heating system to the room. This means that the system will have to work harder and consume more energy to achieve the desired temperature, resulting in increased energy costs.
On the other hand, thinner flooring materials like carpet or laminate allow for better heat transfer, making the system more efficient and cost-effective. Therefore, it is essential to consider the thickness of flooring when installing a radiant heating system to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, it is important to consult with a professional installer to determine the appropriate thickness of the flooring material for your specific heating system and room layout.
What are the best types of flooring for use with radiant heating systems?
The best types of flooring for use with radiant heating systems are those that conduct heat efficiently and evenly. These include tile, stone, and concrete, which are all excellent choices for use with radiant heat. These materials have a high thermal mass, which means they can absorb and retain heat well, which makes them ideal for use in conjunction with radiant heating systems.
Another good option is engineered hardwood flooring, which can withstand temperature changes and humidity levels that are common with radiant heating systems. Cork and bamboo floors also work well with radiant heating, as they are natural materials that conduct heat well and provide a comfortable surface to walk on.
Carpet is not recommended for use with radiant heating systems, as it can act as an insulator and prevent heat from reaching the room. However, if you prefer a softer flooring option, low-pile carpeting made from natural fibers can be used with radiant heating systems.