The bathroom is a place where we relax and take care of ourselves. To feel completely comfortable, it’s important that the space is well-heated. Underfloor heating is an ideal solution, as it ensures even heat distribution and creates a cozy atmosphere. However, some people may be unsure if this option is right for them.
What Do We Need to Know About Underfloor Heating?
When planning a bathroom renovation, one of the key questions to address is what type of heating will work best. While a towel warmer is a common choice, underfloor heating is also worth considering.
Underfloor Heating: Basic Information
In terms of temperature, the bathroom should ideally be about 4 degrees warmer than other rooms in the house. Underfloor heating can help achieve this, and it is an economical solution. It’s important to note that the floor temperature should not exceed 34 degrees Celsius, as this is optimal for walking barefoot and for quick towel drying. Depending on your needs, underfloor heating can serve as the main heat source or as a supplement to a radiator. Moreover, it can be installed using different technologies, with options for either water or electric heating. How do these differ, and which option is more popular?
Underfloor Heating: Water vs. Electric
Regardless of the option chosen, all components of the system are hidden beneath the floor. For water underfloor heating, pipes made of polypropylene, cross-linked polyethylene, or polybutylene are installed. These are fixed to the floor at regular intervals and laid in a spiral pattern, typically spaced 5-10 cm apart in bathrooms. An undeniable advantage of this system is its low installation and operating costs. The heating works in conjunction with the boiler, allowing for even temperature distribution and warmth in the room.
Electric heating, on the other hand, uses heating cables, foils, or mats. A significant benefit of this system is its flexibility; it can be installed in areas where water installation is not feasible, such as in completed homes. Electric underfloor heating is also easy to implement during bathroom renovations. Since the system is located directly beneath the floor, it heats up quickly after being switched on. Additionally, operational costs can be lower if electric heating is only activated when the room is in use. Therefore, advantages include flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and a low failure rate.
Plan Your Decor Before Installing Underfloor Heating
Before deciding on underfloor heating, consider your decor and the placement of fixtures like the shower, bathtub, sink, and toilet. The heating system should not be placed under any equipment to prevent installation issues. Underfloor heating usually requires intervention in the floor, making it most suitable for homes still under construction. Electric heating is often a better option, as it requires fewer changes to existing installations.
Advantages of Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating offers numerous advantages in the bathroom. First, it provides ease of use, among other benefits. While the installation cost may be higher than that of a radiator, running costs are typically lower. Warm air naturally rises, so while a radiator may leave the floor cold, underfloor heating ensures that warmth is felt directly on the floor.
Another benefit is the ability to precisely control the temperature. Heat does not escape from the ceiling, allowing you to enjoy your chosen temperature. If used as the primary heat source, underfloor heating can save valuable space, which is particularly noticeable in smaller bathrooms.
After a bath or shower, the bathroom can become damp, with steam accumulating on surfaces. Underfloor heating accelerates drying, helping to reduce excess moisture. Additionally, the entire installation is hidden beneath the floor, preserving the aesthetics of your decor.
Disadvantages of Underfloor Heating
While many people embrace underfloor heating, some remain skeptical. Often, this skepticism arises from myths surrounding the technology or from improper installation. The higher initial investment cost is another consideration. Furthermore, if any malfunction occurs (which is rare in well-executed installations), accessing pipes and cables can be difficult, requiring intervention in the flooring.
What Flooring Is Suitable for Underfloor Heating?
A common question regarding underfloor heating is whether it can be used with any type of flooring. Ceramic tiles are the most frequently used material in bathrooms and are an excellent choice, as they conduct heat well and will not be damaged by the heat from the system. Other suitable materials include porcelain, terracotta, marble, and granite. The chosen material should be resistant to temperature fluctuations and humidity, with a good expansion coefficient. If the installation occurs under wood, it should be compatible, such as exotic hardwoods, oak, or acacia.
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