Underfloor heating (UFH) is an efficient system that can provide luxurious, comforting warmth in almost any property type, but for the very best results it’s important to consider everything that may affect the heat outputs when designing the system.
Areas that installers should consider include the building’s heat losses, floor areas and, importantly, the floor coverings that the building occupants are planning to use, as these can all have an impact.
Harder floor coverings such as wood, concrete or tiles are more thermally conductive than carpets, for example, making them better at transferring the heat from the UFH to the room above, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t pair carpets with UFH successfully – you just need to make sure you fit the right UFH system in that area.
Here, we offer some recommendations for the best UFH systems to install based on your chosen final floor covering.
Tiles, marble and stone
Tiled floors enhance the performance of UFH systems as they are a very efficient conductor of heat, providing cozy warmth for the occupants. Their thermal stability, easy cleaning, and aesthetic versatility make them a preferred choice for many homeowners, ensuring comfort and style in any space. Compatible systems for use with tile, marble and stone floors include:
- TileFix® – direct application recommended using a suitable tile adhesive
- ThermoDEK™ – can be applied directly onto the UFH
- OneBoard® – 400mm joists require a layer of 6mm ply to be fixed mechanically before the final floor covering is laid. 600mm joists require 9mm ply.
Solid timber floors
Solid wood floors are often paired with UFH due to their excellent heat conductivity and durability. Like tiles, they transfer warmth efficiently and have a natural aesthetic that complements modern heating systems. Compatible systems include:
- ThermoDEK™ – can be fixed or floated directly on top
- OneBoard® – 400mm joists require a layer of 6mm ply mechanically fixed before final floor covering. 600mm joists require 9mm ply
- AluPlate™ fit-from-above – Suitable for 400mm and 600mm joist centres.
Engineered flooring and laminate
Laminate floors are a popular choice for UFH due to their excellent heat conductivity and durability. Their layered construction allows even heat distribution, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency, making them an ideal combination for warm and cost-effective living spaces. Systems that are compatible with engineered flooring and laminate include:
- ThermoDEK™, UltraSlim™ and SlimFix® – Flooring above 6mm in depth can be fixed or floated directly to the board. If below 6mm, a 6mm ply or DriDEK™ is required
- OneBoard® – 400mm joists require a layer of 6mm ply to be mechanically fixed before the final floor covering is laid. 600mm joists require a layer of 9mm ply.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT)
LVT floors are a favourite for use with UFH thanks to their exceptional heat conductivity and durability. Their thin profile ensures an efficient heat transfer that helps keep energy bills down. Compatible systems include:
- SlimFix®, ThermoDEK™ and UltraSlim™ – requires a 6mm ply or DriDEK™ fixed directly to board
- TileFix® – a self-levelling compound must be laid before the final floor covering
- OneBoard® – 400mm joists require a layer of 6mm ply to be mechanically fixed before the final floor covering is laid. 600mm joists require a layer of 9mm ply.
Carpet
Carpet has insulating properties that helps retain UFH warmth within a room, providing a luxurious and energy-efficient solution for a toasty, inviting home environment. We would always recommend that the carpet used, including underlay, has a maximum tog rating of 2.5 to ensure the most efficient heat transfers. Compatible systems include:
- ThermoDEK™, UltraSlim™ and SlimFix® – requires 6mm ply or DriDEK™
- OneBoard® – 400mm joists require a layer of 6mm ply to be mechanically fixed before the final floor covering. 600mm joists require a 9mm layer of ply to be laid.
Resin & Polished concrete
Polished concrete floors excel as a cover for UFH systems thanks to its superior heat conductivity that ensures an even distribution of warmth. Polished floors radiate a modern, sleek aesthetic while optimising energy efficiency and comfort. Compatible systems include:
- ThermoDEK™ and TileFix® – can be laid directly on to the board.
Whatever your preferred UFH and floor covering pairing, we would always recommend that you contact your preferred manufacturer for advice on your specific project before proceeding with the installation if you have any questions.
Continal has been one of the UK’s leading design and supply specialists for energy-efficient warm-water UFH for 25 years. The company’s full range of UFH systems for solid floors, overfloor applications and joist floors, as well as a full portfolio of controls and accessories, can be found at www.continal.co.uk
