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home > underfloor heating > underfloor heating construction
There are a wide range of construction techniques available for underfloor heating, which means we can design a system to suit all types of construction; for example structural slab, in-screed, joisted floor, beam and block etc.
There are so many options for floor constructions, which you can choose, that we have only shown the most popular examples here - we can help you with this.
Whatever your project, whether a new build or renovation, residential or commercial, we can design an underfloor heating system to suit your needs.
To optimise your underfloor heating systems for cost and efficiency, the pipework must be incorporated into a thermal mass. In most modern builds, the thermal mass is usually a screed or concrete.
Solid Floors
Solid floors are ideal for underfloor heating systems. They provide a thermal mass, which distributes heat evenly and efficiently through each area. A good analogy is rechargeable battery; which releases energy as required but can be topped up at any stage. Solid floors also provide good protection to the underfloor heating pipe, which gives you peace of mind.
A screeded floor is a sand/cement mix compacted around underfloor heating pipework. First, thermal insulation is laid on top of the structural element - concrete slab, beam and block, pre-cast concrete plank etc. The pipework is attached to this with fixing rails and staples. Next, screed is laid over the pipes and insulation, forming the thermal mass.
Screeded floor construction is also suited for use on upper floors. Careful consideration should be given to the correct sound insulation required - we can help you with this.
Click to view Screeded Floor Construction pdf
A structural slab is a concrete mix poured over underfloor heating pipework, which has been fixed to structural builders mesh over flooring grade thermal insulation. First, insulation is laid on top of pre-prepared ground and Damp Proof Membrane, followed by the mesh. Next, underfloor heating pipework is attached to the mesh using ties and the slab is poured.
Lightweight floor constructions are ideal where weight and/or floor depth is a major consideration.
Click to view Structural Slab Construction pdf
Lightweight Floors
Lightweight floor constructions are ideal where weight and/or floor depth is a major consideration. These provide a fast heat response in situations such as joisted floors in a new build or refurbishment.
A pugg floor is a sand/cement mix surrounding the underfloor heating pipework, which is sandwiched between two wooden layers. This sits on top of the structural elements - timber joist or I Beam. Thermal insulation is generally fitted between the structural elements, directly under the deck.
This system can be used in conjunction with any type of floor joists
- we can help you with this.
A plywood or board deck is fixed to the floor and battens are laid along the line of the support joists, creating space for the pipework and sand/cement mix. This is then sandwiched in place using a suitable floor boarding. Where floor depth is critical, the system can be countersunk between the structural elements.
Click to view Pugg Floor Construction pdf
A dry/plated floor construction is underfloor heating pipework laid in profiled aluminium plates sitting in grooved thermal insulation boards. These are overlaid onto a supporting deck and is compatible with most structural elements.
Click to view Dry/Plated Floor pdf
REMEMBER:
These are examples; there are many floor construction options-we can help you with this.