Heated floors are a welcome addition to most homes during
the colder months. Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an
existing one, your feet will appreciate the soothing warmth provided by
energy-efficient under-floor heating. Costs associated with the installation of
these floor systems will vary greatly depending on certain circumstances,
including removing or replacing existing flooring in your home; access to crawl
spaces, basements and floor joists; and the type of heated floor system you
choose.
What Are Heated Floors?
A heated floor, also known as radiant heating or under-floor
heating, is an under-the-floor heating system designed to conduct heat to the
floor’s surface and throughout the entire home. When combined with an existing
heating system, heated floors provide additional warmth to keep you comfortable
throughout even the coldest winter months.
How Does It Work?
Essentially, there are two types of radiant heating floor
systems commonly used in residential buildings: electric and hydronic. Both
system types are buried underneath the finished floor. While most electric
systems are easier and cost less to install, they are more expensive to
operate. Hydronic systems are the opposite. Because they require heated water
from a boiler or water heater, they are more expensive to install. They require
less energy to operate, however, which increases their efficiency compared to
electric systems.
What Are the Benefits of Radiant Heating?
Radiant heated floors offer more benefits than just keeping
your tootsies warm. The heat generated from a radiant floor rises up gently to
warm up your home without stirring up dirt, dust and allergens, which could be
harmful to your health. The additional heat also reduces the need to keep a
furnace or HVAC system on throughout the day, which can reduce your energy
costs.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Heated Flooring?
In most cases, unless you are building a new house, you have
to remove the existing flooring to install the heaters. That drives up
installation costs. It is possible to install specially designed pads between
floor joists below your floor. However, this method requires access to the
underside of your floors via a crawl space or basement areas.
What Kind of Flooring Is Best for Radiant Heat?
Most types of residential flooring are suitable for radiant
heating systems. However, because of their conducting properties, stone,
ceramic tile and concrete are capable of withstanding higher temperatures. They
retain the heat more efficiently, as well. Wood flooring carries the risk of
expansion, which could lead to cracks or increased gaps between the floor
boards.
Installing a heated floor in your existing home is no small
undertaking. To achieve maximum efficiency and operation, the installation of
the heating system should be left to the professionals. Dunwoody and
surrounding residents of the greater Atlanta metro area seeking additional
expert advice, service and installation should contact Reliable Heating and
Air. Reliable Heating and Air has proudly served these areas for over 35 years,
providing excellence and first-class service at affordable prices to its
neighbors in the Atlanta area.