Floor coverings and radiant heat
Ceramic tile is usually the floor covering of choice for radiant heating, but almost any material can be used, depending on how the system is installed.
Solid wood flooring can be used, but many manufacturers recommend using laminated wood products instead. This reduces the possibility of warping and cracking from the drying effects of the heat.
Carpeting can be used, but keep in mind that it will slow the flow of heat into the room. Use a thin carpet with a little padding as possible.
The benefits
Homeowners with radiant floor systems claim it's the most comfortable heating option. Heat is produced evenly across the entire room, eliminating hot and cold spots common with forced-air systems.
Radiant heat also warms from the bottom up - when your feet are warm, the rest of your body feels warm too.
Radiant systems are also very quiet, with no noisy blower fans or clunky radiators, and they don't circulate dust and allergens like forced-air systems. During the winter, the humidity remains at a more comfortable level.
And best of all, radiant heating systems are energy-efficient - you can set the thermostat of a radiant floor heater six to eight degrees lower than usual and have the same level of comfort. Energy savings of 15 to 20 percent are common.
The drawbacks
Because radiant heating systems are self-contained, a completely separate central air conditioning system must be installed, including ductwork.
Price is also a factor - the cost of a whole-house installation can be 40 to 50 percent more than a conventional heating system.
For those reasons, most Midwestern homeowners use radiant floor heating to supplement their standard furnace. It's great for warming cold bathroom floors, or heating a new addition without expanding the existing furnace and ductwork. |
