Underfloor Heating: Pros, Cons & Costs

Introduction to Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating, an unseen luxury, is a hidden gem in the realm of home comfort. Imagine stepping onto a cosy, warm floor on chilly mornings; isn't that a dream? In this article, we will uncover the magic beneath your feet - underfloor heating.

Explore as we delve into the nitty-gritty of this state-of-the-art heating system, shedding light on its benefits, installation process, and maintenance tips. If you're a homeowner pondering whether to take the plunge, this article is designed for you.

What is Underfloor Heating?

The way underfloor heating works is actually pretty simple. It consists of a network of low-temperature pipes, cables, or mats laid underneath the floor. Hot water or electricity is then used to heat the pipes or cables, which in turn radiates warmth into the room.

The two main types of underfloor heating are wet systems and electric systems. Wet Underfloor Heating involves running hot water through plastic pipes installed underneath the floor. Electric Underfloor Heating (also called 'dry' underfloor heating) involves running electrical cables beneath your flooring using electric heat mats to warm up the room.

8 Benefits of Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating offers many advantages compared to traditional heating systems:

  1. Uniform Heat Distribution: Underfloor heating provides even warmth across the room, eliminating cold spots and creating a comfortable environment.
  2. Energy Efficiency: It operates at lower temperatures compared to traditional radiators and consumes less energy, leading to reduced heating bills.
  3. Aesthetically Pleasing: Since the heating system is hidden under the floor, it doesn't interfere with your home decor or take up wall space like conventional radiators.
  4. Improved Air Quality: Underfloor heating reduces the circulation of dust and allergens in the air, which is beneficial for people with allergies.
  5. Easy Maintenance: Once installed, underfloor heating systems require little upkeep, providing hassle-free warmth for many years.
  6. Flexibility: Suitable for almost any type of flooring including wooden, tile, stone, and carpet.
  7. Silent Operation: Underfloor heating systems operate quietly, providing a peaceful living environment.
  8. Increases Property Value: A modern heating system like this can increase the appeal and value of a property, making it a good long-term investment.

Why Consider Underfloor Heating?

Choosing underfloor heating is more than just a trend, it's a strategic decision that enhances the comfort and value of your home. It's about making a conscious choice towards a more efficient, healthier, and aesthetically pleasing heating solution.

Whether you're building a new home or renovating, underfloor heating systems offer a versatile and enticing feature that aligns with modern living standards.

underfloor heating mat

The Installation Process of Underfloor Heating

Now that we've explored the myriad benefits of underfloor heating, let's turn our attention to the installation process. Understanding this procedure is crucial, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or hiring professionals.

Basic Steps in Installing Underfloor Heating

The installation process of underfloor heating can vary depending on the type of system (wet or electric), but the basic steps are often similar:

  1. Preparation: The first step is preparing the floor. This includes cleaning the subfloor, ensuring it is level, and making sure any necessary insulation is in place.
  2. Layout Planning: Next, a layout or plan of the heating system is drawn up, considering factors like the size and shape of the room, the location of fixtures and furniture, and the type of flooring to be used.
  3. Installing the Heating System: Now, the underfloor heating system can be put in place. This could involve laying heating cables or mats, or installing pipes for a wet system. The system should be arranged according to the layout plan.
  4. Connection and Testing: After the heating system is installed, it's connected to the power supply or boiler, and then tested to ensure it's working properly.
  5. Installing the Floor Covering: Once the system is tested and working, the final step is to install the floor covering. This could be tiles, wood, carpet or other types of flooring.

Remember, while these steps provide a general guide, it's always recommended to hire professionals for the installation. This ensures the system is installed safely and correctly, providing optimum performance.

Types of Underfloor Heating Systems

There are some differences when it comes to installing wet vs electrical underfloor heating. Generally speaking, wet systems will require more prep work and take longer to install compared to electric systems. On the other hand, wet systems often come with better insulation and energy efficiency than electrical systems.

Cost Implications of Underfloor Heating

Let's now delve into one of the most pressing questions when considering an underfloor heating system - the cost. We will break down the cost implications of installing and running an underfloor heating system, looking at both up-front and ongoing costs. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment involved in choosing underfloor heating for your home.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Underfloor Heating

The cost of underfloor heating can be influenced by several factors:

  1. Type of System: Wet underfloor heating systems usually involve higher installation costs compared to electric systems due to more complex installation requirements. On the other hand, they tend to have lower running costs due to better energy efficiency.
  2. Size of the Area: The larger the area to be heated, the more materials and work will be required, increasing the overall cost.
  3. Flooring Type: Different flooring materials may require different installation methods or heating systems, which could affect costs.
  4. Installation Complexity: The complexity of the installation can impact the cost. For instance, it may be more expensive if there are many rooms, obstructions, or if the floor needs a significant amount of preparation.
  5. Professional Installation: Hiring professionals for the installation will add to the cost but will also ensure the system is installed correctly and safely.
  6. Quality of Materials: Higher quality materials, while more expensive upfront, may offer better performance and longevity, potentially saving money in the long run.
  7. Insulation: Good insulation can reduce the running cost of the system, but may involve an additional upfront cost.
  8. New vs Renovated: The age of your property may also affect the cost of installation. It is often less expensive to install in a newly built house, compared to a renovation project.

Total Costs

On average, underfloor heating will cost:

  • Electrical Underfloor Heating: Between £50 and £90 per m2.
  • Wet Underfloor Heating: Between £125 and £200 per m2.

So for a room that is 10m2, you should expect to pay around £750 for an electrical underfloor heating system, or £1,500 for a wet underfloor heating system.

Running Costs

When considering running costs for underfloor heating, look at both energy efficiency and usage. Generally speaking, wet systems tend to have better energy efficiency, while electric systems can require more electricity due to their mode of operation.

The running cost of the system will also be influenced by factors like insulation, thermostat settings, and zoning (the ability to control temperatures in different zones). Good insulation can help reduce running costs significantly.

Labour Costs

When you install underfloor heating, it's likely all of your floors will need to be lifted and then placed back down once the mats or pipes are in place.

If you opt to hire professional installers, labour costs typically range from £15-20 per m2 or between £200-300 for a day's work, depending on the complexity of the job. This can add up significantly for larger rooms, so it's essential you factor in these extra costs when budgeting for your new system.

Running Costs

A 10m2 room would cost between £40 and £50 a month to run for 4 hours each day, and you should consider carefully how it will impact your energy bills. They aren't cheap but they do provide unparalleled comfort. It's also important to note that the monthly running costs of underfloor heating systems can be offset by their value as a long-term investment in your property.

Making the Decision: Is Underfloor Heating Worth It?

Deciding whether to take the plunge and install underfloor heating in your home is a big decision. It's important to understand that while underfloor heating can be expensive upfront, it can also provide significant benefits in terms of comfort and property value.

Seeking Professional Help

With so many factors at play when it comes to underfloor heating, it's always best to seek at least 3 quotes from professionals to get a better idea of the total cost of installation. This will allow you to compare quotes and make an informed decision about the best option for your home. Here are a few tips when looking for a tradesman to handle installation:

  • Ask for references and check their reviews.
  • Make sure they are fully insured and qualified to carry out the job.
  • Ensure all items are included in the quote, such as labour, materials, equipment hire, etc.
  • Inquire about any guarantees or warranties that come with the work.
  • Clarify who is responsible for any additional costs, such as those associated with a change of plans or unforeseen complications.

Making the decision to install underfloor heating in your home is about more than just cost - it's an investment that will bring you comfort and increase the value of your property for years to come. However, it is essential to weigh up all factors and ensure you're getting the most out of your investment. With a little research and the right professionals, you can ensure your underfloor heating system is up to scratch and running smoothly for years to come.

Where to Buy Underfloor Heating

We stock a huge range of underfloor heating mats and accessories. Our products are sourced from trusted brands such as Warmup and Sunstone and come with a range of warranties. Shop our full range of underfloor heating products right here.