Radiant heat flooring provides an extra level of warmth in the home. In addition, it has been shown to reduce the amount of heat loss in the home by as much as 25%. With radiant heat flooring, you can say good-bye to cold feet in the morning and hello to extra savings.

The Energy Savings of Radiant Heat Flooring

Radiant heat flooring is a more efficient means for heating the home. This is because it helps to maintain a constant room temperature while also balancing the distribution of heat in the room. This can be accomplished through either a hydronic radiant heat flooring system or an electric radiant heat flooring system.

Often the hyrdonic radiant heat flooring system is best when used for the entire house, whereas the electric radiant heat flooring system is best for a few rooms or a small house.

Hydronic Systems

A hydronic radiant heat flooring system is best installed by a professional. It involves attaching hot water tubes to the sub floor within the home. The tubes are then covered with a layer of thermal mass flooring. This thin flooring is capable of transferring heat to the room in the same way a radiator transfers heat.

The heat source for the water used in a hydronic radiant heat flooring system can be a geothermal heat pump, a water heater, a boiler, or even solar panels. The water passes through the heat source to be warmed and then passes through the tubes throughout the home. It then returns to the heat source again to be reheated and begins the process over again.

Electric Radiant Heat Flooring Systems

Any homeowner with a solid knowledge of electricity can install an electric radiant heat flooring system. First, an electric roll should be purchased and laid out on the sub floor in accordance with the manufacturer's directions. Next, a layer of thinset cement should be applied over the electric roll.

The new flooring, which can include carpet, vinyl, ceramic tile, or laminate, can than be placed over the electric roll. Then, the only thing left to do is to connect the electrical flooring to an electricity source and thermostat and enjoy the comforts of radiant heat flooring.