I have just installed
under tile heating in our new bathroom. People always seem shocked we have done it as we are on a budget but it's actually really cost effective and fantastic for keeping tootsies warm.
I spoke to the people at Hot Floors to get the techy lowdown on under tile heating...
What is under tile heating?
Under tile heating is a popular, energy efficient form of heating in modern homes, either as a replacement or in combination with, traditional radiator systems.
Heating elements beneath the floor radiate heat to the whole of the floor surface, so heat is distributed evenly across the floor space. This is done by either:
- carrying hot water
- electric heating cables
- electric heating mats
Photo: Under tile heating mat
Under tile heating can be installed, inexpensively, beneath all types of floor e.g. Tile, wood, vinyl and carpet, without increasing the overall floor height by more than ½", or so. Underfloor heating is economical to run - in fact the nature of the heating means that the overall air temperature can actually be 2°C lower than with radiator systems and is virtually maintenance-free.
Under tile heating systems
An under tile heating system - whether it is a "wet" or "dry" electric system - involves the installation of heating elements between a solid floor and the tiles laid onto that floor. Most floors on which tiles are laid are either timber, or concrete, and heating elements are typically incorporated into the adhesive used to cement tiles to these surfaces.
Electrical heating mats, for example, are suitable for installation beneath tiles, although the floor surface should be painted with thermal primer - to promote lateral heat transfer and eliminate cold spots - before applying tile adhesive and tiles.
Do bear in mind, however, that there are different types of heating mats, in terms of the spacing of individual heating elements, and the heat energy output per unit area. Some lower output systems, from 60W/m2 to 100W/m2, are either designed for use beneath wooden, or laminate, floors - where safety is paramount - or in highly insulated homes. Typically, an output of 125W/m2 is required for tile warming, whilst 150W/m2 is required for a complete heating solution.
Photo: Under tile heating wire
Under tile heating is of particular benefit in bathrooms, shower rooms and wet rooms, where the shock of cold tiles on bare feet can be unpleasant, especially during the winter months. Heat from the floor radiates upwards into the room itself, so occupants can also enjoy comfortable and even heating on their way to and from a bath or shower. Under tile heating also allows wet floors, and surfaces, to dry more quickly.
Under tile heating can be used, exclusively, as floor central heating in a small bathroom, or combined with heated tower rails in a larger room.