Find the Perfect Flooring for Your Underfloor Heating System

The worst part of those brisk, and cold winter nights is your feet hitting you freezing floors. On go the layers of socks and slippers, trying to beat the cold biting at your toes. However, thanks to the surge in popularity, underfloor heating's has fast become a staple in modern (and even older!) homes. 

Imagine dancing barefoot in your kitchen or padding around your home with no socks. The warmth - the freedom! With underfloor heating you can say goodbye to chilly toes, and hello to comfort. But what flooring is the best for your new underflooring heating system?

At Newland Floors and Doors, we are experts in flooring so we have made this super simple guide so you can pick the best flooring that will keep your home warm and toasty. 

How Does Your New Underfloor Heating System Work?

Underfloor heating works by radiating heat evenly across the floor, providing a consistent and comfortable temperature without the need for bulky radiators. There are two main types of systems: electric and water-based. 

Selecting the right flooring is crucial for maximising the effectiveness of your underfloor heating. Different materials have varying thermal properties, affecting heat distribution and overall comfort. Let’s take a look at some of the best flooring options that work harmoniously with underfloor heating systems.

Your Flooring Options and Their Pros and Cons

Tile Flooring

When you think of tile floors you can often associate them with cold feet but tile flooring is actually one of the best choices for your underfloor heating due to its excellent thermal conductivity. It quickly absorbs and transfers heat so your home can warm up quickly and efficiently.

Tiles are incredibly durable, making them perfect for high traffic areas in your home such as your kitchen and bathroom. 

Pros:

• Fast and efficient heat transfer.
• Wide range of styles and finishes available.
• Resistant to moisture and stains, making them easy to clean.

Cons:

• Can feel cold when the heating is off.
• Requires proper installation to avoid cracks or damage.

Natural Stone Flooring

Did you know that natural stone flooring, such as granite or marble, is an excellent conductor of heat? This means your floors can retain their warmth for longer periods of time, even after you have turned the heating off! 

And, as an added bonus, it has a luxurious aesthetic, making it the most popular choice for high-end homes. 

Pros:

• Excellent heat retention, keeping floors warm for longer.
• Adds value to your home with its timeless, elegant look.
• Extremely durable and long-lasting.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other flooring options.
• Requires sealing to prevent stains and damage from moisture.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is the best flooring if you are sticking to a budget but also works well with underfloor heating. It also has the look of wood or stone at a much lower cost, saving you money without the cutting on style.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to install.
• Good heat conductivity when paired with the right underlay.
• Available in a wide variety of styles.

Cons:

• Not as durable as tile or stone.
• Can warp or crack if exposed to excessive heat or moisture.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring is a better option than solid wood for your underfloor heating. This is because it is less likely to expand or contract with temperature changes. Giving you the warmth and beauty of wood without the issues that can come with solid hardwood flooring and underfloor heating. 

Pros:

• More resistant to temperature changes than solid wood.
• Retains the natural aesthetic of wood flooring.
• Provides a warm, inviting feel underfoot.

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than laminate or tile.
• Requires careful installation to prevent gaps or warping.

Your Frequently Asked Questions

Is underfloor heating worth it?

If you are looking for energy efficient and space saving solutions, then yes underfloor heating would be worth it for your home. Traditional radiators can leave certain areas of your home cooler, yet underfloor heating distributes warmth evenly across the floor to create a cosy home for you.

Is underfloor heating expensive?

Initially, the cost of installation of your underfloor heating will vary depending on the size and the type of system you choose (electric or water-based). But the savings you will have long term on your energy bills (especially with the cost of living crisis!) and add value to your home. 

Can you have a wooden floor with underfloor heating?

Technically, yes you can have wooden flooring with underfloor heating, but it must be the right type of wood. If not, you risk warping or cracking because of the rapid temperature changes. That is why, at Newland Floors and Doors, we recommend our Engineered Wood Flooring range if you want underfloor heating and solid wooden flooring. 

Choosing the right flooring for your underfloor heating system is key for keeping both your toes and pockets warm and comfortable. At Newland Floors and Doors, we offer a wide range of flooring options that will suit your budget and aesthetic. Shop our site today and find the perfect floors for your new underfloor heating system.