Underfloor heating has become increasingly prevalent within the UK in recent years; now being installed in approximately 50% of new commercial builds and an increasing number of domestic projects. This is due to the growing recognition of the benefits associated with underfloor heating.
Underfloor heating is perhaps the most energy efficient heating method available. With a broader surface area than typical radiators, less energy is needed to emit the heat required to warm spaces. On average, underfloor heating will use between 15 and 40% less energy than radiators to heat the same space. Furthermore, whereas other heating systems cause higher temperatures at ceiling level, underfloor heating warms spaces from the bottom up, providing warmer temperatures to the feet and cooler temperatures to the head; this combination known to be more comfortable to humans.
Underfloor heating consists of water or electric pipes laid on top of insulation and subsequently embedded within screed. They are easy to install, with pipes simply laid out in a predesigned pattern along the floor and screed subsequently poured over to cover. A wide range of finishes can then be added to complete.
Layout design requires mechanical and electrical design expertise to ensure the greatest possible benefit from underfloor heating. Syntegra Consulting have a wealth of experience in designing underfloor heating systems and ensuring that this contributes towards meeting environmental building regulations such as BREEAM and the Code for Sustainable Homes. If you are considering installing underfloor heating, contact us at Syntegra and we would be happy to help with any questions you may have.
