How to insulate your underfloor heating system
A new underfloor heating system is a wise investment, but it can be made even wiser by the addition of a thin layer of insulation beneath the wires or pipes. Of course heat rises, that’s what makes floor heating so efficient, but a certain percentage will still work its way downward; proper use of insulation will prevent unnecessary heat loss.
Underfloor heating insulation is a thin layer of material such as cork or polystyrene foam. Sometimes a thin layer of felt with a backing of Mylar is used. What all these materials have in common is that they stop heat loss from the pipes or wires. The laws of physics state that heat will always disperse to colder areas. The sub-floor beneath your pipes or wires is cold, and some heat loss will occur there. The insulating layer will substantially slow that loss.
You want the vast majority of the heat you pay for to remain in the home, so you and your family can have cosy winter evenings. Underfloor heating insulation is rarely very expensive, even for an entire house, and will more than pay for itself in the first year in energy savings alone.
Also, with an insulating layer preventing heat loss through the sub-floor, the floor you wish to heat will reach the proper temperature much faster. The floor can switch itself off when the desired temperature is reached, saving you money.
When selecting an underfloor insulation, ask about the insulative properties of the material and how durable it is. Since underfloor heating systems typically last decades longer than more conventional heating systems, it’s critical that you protect your investment with something that will stand the test of time. Installation of the insulation is generally a snap, and you’ll soon be enjoying a warmer floor and home, with your new underfloor system.