Underfloor Heating (UFH) Trends and Methods
Underfloor heating (UFH) is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional radiators and air conditioning systems, providing a more efficient and cost-effective heating solution for both residential and commercial properties. The system involves the installation of pipes or heating mats beneath the floor, which then distribute heat evenly throughout the room, creating a comfortable and consistent temperature. In this article, we will explore the various industry trends in the UK, the different methods of installation for residential and commercial properties, and the different types of screed and flooring that can be used.
Industry Trends in the UK
According to a report by AMA Research, the UK underfloor heating market was worth £139m in 2020, with a growth rate of 8% in the previous year. The trend towards energy-efficient and eco-friendly heating systems is driving the demand for UFH, particularly in new-build homes and refurbishments. The UK government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions has also contributed to the rise in popularity of UFH, as it is considered a low-carbon heating system. In addition, technological advancements and innovations in UFH systems have improved their efficiency, making them more cost-effective for homeowners and businesses.
Installation Methods for Residential Properties
There are two main types of underfloor heating systems for residential properties: wet and dry. Wet UFH systems involve the installation of pipes, which are connected to a boiler or heat pump, and hot water is circulated through them to heat the floor. The dry UFH system, on the other hand, uses electric heating mats, which are installed under the floor and connected to the mains electricity supply. The type of system chosen will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the property, the budget, and the desired level of energy efficiency.
Wet UFH System
The installation of a wet UFH system involves the laying of pipes within a layer of screed, which is a mixture of sand, cement, and water. The screed is poured onto a layer of insulation, which helps to prevent heat loss and improve the efficiency of the system. Once the screed has dried, the floor covering can be laid on top. The choice of flooring will depend on the type of screed used, as some flooring materials require a specific type of screed.
Dry UFH System
The installation of a dry UFH system involves the laying of electric heating mats onto an insulation layer, which is then covered with a layer of levelling compound. The levelling compound creates a smooth surface for the flooring to be laid on top of. The choice of flooring is less restricted with a dry UFH system, as there is no requirement for a specific type of screed.
Installation Methods for Commercial Properties
In commercial properties, the installation of UFH systems is more complex and involves the use of specialist equipment and materials. There are two main types of screed used in commercial properties: traditional screed and liquid screed. Learn more about the different types of screed in one of our previous articles here.
Traditional Screed
Traditional screed is a mixture of sand, cement, and water, which is applied in a semi-dry state and then smoothed over the floor. The installation of a wet UFH system in a commercial property using traditional screed involves laying the pipes onto the insulation layer and then pouring the screed over the top. The screed is then smoothed out and left to dry before the floor covering is laid.
Learn more about the difference between screed and concrete.
Liquid Screed
Liquid screed is a more modern alternative to traditional screed and is made from a mixture of sand, cement, and water, with added additives to create a flowing consistency. The installation of a wet UFH system in a commercial property using liquid screed involves the pumping of the liquid screed onto the insulation layer, which creates a smooth and even surface for the UFH pipes to be laid onto.
