Underfloor Heating Installation with Local Experts
If you're considering underfloor heating for your home or business in London, Essex, or Hertfordshire, you probably have questions. How is underfloor heating installed? What's involved in the process? And perhaps most importantly, how much does underfloor heating cost? Let's talk through these questions together.
The Basics of Underfloor Heating Installation
You might think that underfloor heating installation is as simple as adding a layer under your floor finish, and you're partly right. Typically, the system is installed on top of a suitable sublayer—whether it's insulation, between joists, or directly on a structural surface—followed by your chosen floor finish, such as tiles, engineered wood, or something else. But there’s a bit more to it than that.
– 01
We start by looking at your home. Every property is different, and we need to understand yours to design the right system. We'll look at things like your insulation, your current heating setup, and the way you use your space.
– 02
Based on what we learn, we'll design a system specifically for you. This isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. We use careful calculations to make sure your system will provide the right amount of heat for each room.
– 03
When it comes to installation, we’ll need the floor prepared beforehand, which is usually handled by your renovation contractor. We have specific requirements for floor preparation to ensure everything is ready for the underfloor heating system, and we’ll provide guidance on what’s needed to get it just right.
– 04
We'll then lay the heating elements. For water-based systems, this means laying pipes in a specific pattern. For electric systems, we'll lay heating mats or cables.
– 05
Once everything's in place, we connect the system to your heat source and controls. Then we test everything thoroughly to make sure it's working as it should.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?
This is often one of the first questions people ask us, and it's an important one. The truth is, the underfloor heating cost per sq m can vary. It depends on factors like:
The size of the area you're heating
Whether you choose a water-based or electric system
The type of flooring you have or want
The current state of your insulation
We know that's not a straightforward answer, but we believe in being honest. What we can promise is this: we’ll give you a clear, detailed quote before we start any work. We'll explain what each cost is for, so you understand exactly what you're paying for.
A Closer Look At Underfloor Heating Installation Costs
While we can't give an exact figure without assessing your specific situation, we can provide some ballpark figures to give you an idea of underfloor heating installation costs:
Why Professional
Installation Matters
You might be wondering if you could save money by installing underfloor heating yourself. While it's tempting, professional installation is crucial for a few reasons:
Safety
Proper installation ensures your system is safe to use. This is especially important for electric systems.
Warranty
Many manufacturers' warranties are only valid if the system is professionally installed.
Efficiency
A well-installed system will heat your home or business more effectively and use less energy.
Longevity
When installed correctly, your underfloor heating should last for decades with minimal maintenance.
What to Expect During Installation
We won't sugarcoat it - installing underfloor heating does cause some disruption. You'll need to clear the rooms where we're working, and you might need to make alternative arrangements for a few days.
But we promise to keep the disruption to a minimum. We'll give you a clear timeline before we start, so you know what to expect. And we'll clean up thoroughly at the end of each day.
After the Installation
Once your system is installed, we'll show you how to use it. We'll explain how to set your thermostat, how to program different temperatures for different times of day, and how to use any smart features your system might have.
We'll also give you advice on how to get the most out of your new heating. For example, did you know that underfloor heating works best with a consistent temperature, rather than being turned on and off?
Is Underfloor Heating Right for You?
Underfloor heating can be a great choice for many homes, but it's not right for everyone.
It works well if
You're building a new home or doing major renovations
You want to free up wall space currently taken by radiators
You're looking for an energy-efficient heating solution
You like the idea of warm floors underfoot
On the other hand, it might not be the best choice if:
You have very thick carpet throughout your space
You're not planning to stay in your current home for long
Your budget is very tight
Types of Underfloor Heating Systems
When it comes to underfloor heating installation, there are two main types of systems to choose from:
Water-based (or "wet") systems
These use warm water pumped through a network of pipes beneath your floor. They're typically more expensive to install but can be more cost-effective to run, especially in larger areas.
Electric systems
These use a network of wires beneath the floor to generate heat. They're usually cheaper and easier to install, making them a good choice for smaller areas or renovation projects.
The choice between these two often comes down to factors like your existing heating system, the size of the area you want to heat, and your budget for both installation and running costs. At Thermaze, we offer a range of systems to suit different homes and needs. Let's take a closer look at some of our most popular options:
Tacker System
The Reliable Classic
This is one of our most requested systems, and for good reason. It's ideal for new builds with solid floors.
It's a great value, cost-effective method of installing underfloor heating within a screeded floor.
Key features
Designed for new-build solid floors
Heat output up to 100W/m2
Flexible pipe layout
Quick and efficient installation
Low Profile System (Castellated)
The Renovation Hero
This system is primarily designed for refurbishment projects where floor build-up is at a premium.
The system incorporates a 12mm underfloor heating pipe within a plastic castellated panel, which is then covered with 20mm of reinforced levelling compound.
Key features
Low-profile system for retrofit projects
Heat output of up to 120W/m2
Exceptionally quick response time
Floor finishes can be laid directly on top
Low Profile System (EPS)
The Space Saver
Another option in our low-profile range, perfect for retrofit projects with limited space for floor build-up. This system is a more budget-friendly solution and is best suited for engineered wood flooring.
This system uses aluminium foil for efficient heat distribution, offering maximum heat output with a quicker response than traditional screed systems. If you’re looking for flexibility in floor finishes, our castellated system may be a better option, as it can accommodate additional layers without restricting heat output.
Key features
Budget-friendly low-profile system for retrofit projects
Heat output of up to 80W/m²
Includes an insulation layer
Suitable for engineered wood flooring; some floor finishes may require an additional layer
Low Profile System (EPS)
The Space Saver
Another option in our low-profile range, perfect for retrofit projects with limited space for floor build-up. This system is a more budget-friendly solution and is best suited for engineered wood flooring.
This system uses aluminium foil for efficient heat distribution, offering maximum heat output with a quicker response than traditional screed systems. If you’re looking for flexibility in floor finishes, our castellated system may be a better option, as it can accommodate additional layers without restricting heat output.
Key features
Budget-friendly low-profile system for retrofit projects
Heat output of up to 80W/m²
Includes an insulation layer
Choosing the right system for your space depends on various factors, including your floor type, the age of your property, and your specific heating needs. That's why we always start with a thorough assessment of your space before recommending a solution.
Remember, every home is unique, and what works brilliantly for your neighbour might not be the best fit for you. We're here to help you figure out these choices and find the perfect system to keep your home or business warm and inviting.
Want to chat about which system might be right? Give us a ring. We promise we won't baffle you with jargon - just honest, straightforward advice to help you make the best choice for your space.
Maximising the Benefits of Your Underfloor Heating
Once your underfloor heating is installed, there are several ways to ensure you're getting the most out of it
Use a smart thermostat
This can help you control your heating more efficiently, potentially saving you money on energy bills.
Consider your flooring choices
Some materials, like tile or stone, conduct heat better than others.
Keep it consistent
Underfloor heating works best when maintained at a steady temperature, rather than being turned on and off frequently.
Regular maintenance
While underfloor heating systems are generally low maintenance, an annual check can help ensure everything's working efficiently.
Customer Testimonials
Ready for Warm, Efficient Underfloor Heating?
We'd love to hear about your heating needs. Whether you're considering underfloor heating for a new build, thinking about retrofitting an existing property, or simply have questions, we're here to help.
Our team is ready to offer advice tailored to your specific situation. No obligation, just friendly, expert guidance.
Get in Touch
Fill in our quick contact form, and we'll get back to you within one working day. Let's talk about keeping your space comfortable and warm.