If you’re looking to update your home, underfloor heating might be something that you’re considering. It’s a great system that can really make your home feel more cosy, but it’s not as simple as just installing underfloor heating; you have to make sure you’ve got a floor that works with an underfloor heating system and that looks nice.
With that in mind, plenty of people find themself wondering whether or not resin floors can be used with underfloor heating — and the answer is yes according to Trusty Tread.
What are resin floors?
Resin floors are made up of a coating that is poured over concrete or other flooring material. The resin itself consists of two parts, resin and a hardening agent. These two components form a tight bond, creating a strong material that is flexible and customisable.
What is underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating pretty much does what it says on the tin: it provides heat through the floor of your home. There are two types of underfloor heating systems, you can either have an electric system or a water based system. Electric systems use wires beneath the floor to provide warmth, and water based systems use pipes. The latter is generally considered to be more energy efficient.
Why choose underfloor heating?
Most houses have some form of heating already, so what’s the point in investing in new heating systems? What makes underfloor heating worthwhile? Here’s what you need to know.
Produces radiant heat
Underfloor heating works differently to your standard radiators. Radiators provide heat through convection, whereas underfloor heating works by using radiant heat and convection heat, providing a much more evenly distributed and consistent heat throughout the property.
Reduces risk of mould
Since the room is kept at a much more consistent temperature, and the whole room is kept at one temperature rather than just one side of the room, mould is much less likely. Underfloor heating can keep the pesky mould at bay by keeping the whole room well heated.
Space saving
Radiators are fine, we all just kind of accept their existence, but how much easier would it be to design your rooms without having to account for the radiator? With underfloor heating, you can free up space in your home.
Energy efficient
Underfloor heating has proven to be more energy efficient than central heating systems because it provides relief to the boiler. It is easier for the boiler to push the water through the pipes than it is into a radiator, and the underfloor heating generally works at a low temperature.
Will resin floors work with an underfloor heating system?
A resin floor will absolutely work with a floor heating system. It is a good conductor, meaning that it assists in the heat regulation that underfloor heating is known for, and its seamless nature means that it is incredibly comfortable to walk on. The flexible properties of epoxy floors mean that they are often considered to be more comfortable than other floors… add in underfloor heating at a comfortable temperature and you’ve got the perfect flooring solution!
Why choose resin floors to go with underfloor heating
Not only will resin floors work with your energy efficient underfloor heating, but they’ll help it and your house thrive.
Easy maintenance
Resin floors are incredibly easy to maintain. They’re seamless, so they do not gather dirt or debris like other flooring materials, meaning that they can be cleaned incredibly easily. Resistant to chemicals and heat, they’re durable and sturdy.
Epoxy floors are waterproof
One of the reasons that epoxy floors are considered a good choice for underfloor heating is that they are waterproof, which means that there is little risk in installing a water-based energy efficient underfloor heating system.
A resin floor is durable
Due to the chemical reaction that occurs when resin floors are being poured, the surface is incredibly durable. It is often used in industrial spaces where heavy machinery is carted around, and can hold up against heavy foot traffic, too.
Choice of colours and styles of epoxy floors
Unlike many flooring materials, resin flooring comes in a range of styles and colours. This means that not only can you have warmth coming from your floor, but it’ll look slick and stylish, too.
Are resin floors the best choice for an under floor heating system?
There are, of course, some other options if you’re not too keen on the idea of an epoxy floor.
Resin floors and laminate
Unlike wood which is an insulator, laminate will work well to improve heat distribution and will provide the appearance of wood; however, it is not particularly durable and can be damaged easily. It is also harder to maintain than resin flooring.
Resin floors and carpet
Carpeting works as an insulating material, and so when paired with underfloor heating it does not work very well. It tends to trap the heat rather than warm the house.
Resin floors and ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are certainly up there in the best choices when it comes to finding a flooring material to pair with underfloor heating. They provide great heat transference and are also incredibly comfortable to walk on. However, resin floors do last longer and are much more durable.
Resin floor and concrete floors
Concrete floors can conduct heat in a similar way to resin flooring, and they are also incredibly durable. However, while the heat distribution is the same, they do not cover the comfortable floor surface that resin floors have. Resin is known to provide comfort underfoot, whereas concrete is rather solid and unforgiving.