Not a fan of a wood stove or radiators on the walls of your new home? Then floor heating might be the most suitable - and most elegant - solution for you. But can you combine underfloor heating with just any tile? And what about a wooden floor? Impermo answers all your questions regarding underfloor heating.

First things first

Underfloor heating is not only space-saving but also very energy-efficient (up to 20% less energy consumption) and allergic-friendly, because it reduces the amount of dust in the house. However, it is essential to be careful when choosing your underfloor heating, because not every floor can just be placed on top of any system.

First of all, the floor on the heating elements must have a limited insulating effect. In the case of traditional stoves or central heating, you choose a good insulating floor, and in the case of underfloor heating, you do the exact opposite. Ideally, you choose a floor with low heat resistance: the heat should be able to pass naturally through the floor and warm the space. This resistance is expressed in R-value and should be less than 0,1m²K/W. If the heat resistance is too high, this is only a solution if your floor shouldn't let through heat or cold and act as insulation.

Can you do it with your dream floor?

Most floors are suitable for underfloor heating, although there are often some conditions or additional installation requirements. For instance, things can never go wrong with natural stone. They absorb the heat very well and guide it to the adjacent space. In the case of a lighter natural stone, however, it is recommended to provide additional protection against rust formation using a reinforcement net covered with plastic. 

Ceramic tiles and ceramic parquet lend themselves perfectly to floor heating thanks to their low heat resistance. When you place your tiles, take into account the expansion joints, especially in the case of non-continuous joints. What if you go for a Roman pattern? Then you should be extra attentive to prevent cracks or loose tiles.

Which floors are harder? 

A lot of people mistakenly think that a parquet floor can't be reconciled with underfloor heating. This is not true. It is true that wood lives and that some types of wood are less or not suitable.

Floor heating & parquet*: tips

1. Go for state-of-the-art floor heating that can be installed deep enough.
2. Make sure gradual heating is possible. Wood is not resistant to sudden temperature changes.
3. Don't finish the wood with a layer of varnish. It will start peeling if you do.
4. Avoid too many carpets or floor coverings. The R-value of wood is already quite high, which is why other upholstery is definitely not recommended.
5. Choose an oak parquet. Es, beech, maple or ruby are not recommended for being too susceptible to moisture, drought and heat.

* These tips also apply to laminate floors (for which a special subfloor always comes recommended).

SUPER TIP FROM IMPERMO

Get advice from experts on the subject before, during and after the installation of your underfloor heating and floor. In the Impermo showrooms, our trained showroom advisors will be happy to help you choose the perfect floor for your underfloor heating!