BANARTAUnderfloor heating, also called radiant floor heating, places a heating system beneath the finished floor. Two common approaches use warm-water pipes or electric heating cables and mats. The choice affects the required floor build-up, controls and installation method.
Two common types of underfloor heating
Hydronic or water-based systems
A hydronic system circulates warm water through pipes beneath the floor. The pipe layout, water temperature and controls are selected as part of the heating design. Panels can provide insulation and help position the pipes, but the panel profile must match the specified pipe and installation method.
Electric systems
An electric system uses heating cables or mats beneath a compatible floor finish. Check the heating manufacturer’s instructions for the supporting substrate, insulation, adhesive or covering layer and controls. A panel designed to hold water pipes should not automatically be treated as a suitable base for electric heating.
Where insulation panels fit
Insulation is one part of the floor assembly. When selecting it, confirm the available floor height, substrate condition, expected loads and the requirements of the chosen heating system. Do not select a board solely because its thickness fits the space.
For water-based installations, compare grooved XPS floor heating panels and EPS floor heating panels. Review the groove or stud pattern, pipe fit, facing and proposed covering layer for each model.
What to prepare before requesting panels
- The room or project type and whether it is a new build or renovation.
- The heating system type and, for hydronic systems, the specified pipe dimensions and layout.
- The existing substrate, available build-up height and intended floor finish.
- The required panel dimensions, quantity and delivery destination.
Check the required installation accessories alongside the panel specification. Confirm system compatibility and the installation design before placing an order.
Does underfloor heating guarantee lower running costs?
No single saving applies to every installation. Assess the complete heating design, building insulation, controls and local energy costs rather than relying on a general marketing percentage.