back to archiveCold Feet? Time for a warm floor….
Article by Pembroke Tile & Stone
The days are getting shorter and the weather is cooler. Soon it will be winter again and for Bermuda that can mean chilly, damp mornings. Imagine getting out of a cozy bed to get ready for work on another dark, cold morning and feeling warm floors underfoot.
Why not consider installing underfloor heating? It’s an energy-efficient way to keep warm throughout the cold months and the sensation of walking barefoot on a heated floor is so luxurious.
Types of Underfloor Heating
There are two types of underfloor heating: electric and hydronic. Electric heating is a dry system using thin wire attached to open-weave mesh mats. The mats are spread out on the floor, connected together and are then linked up to the thermostat and mains power supply.This system is suitable for renovations as they cause less disruption to the existing floor structure.
Hydronic, also known as a wet system, heats the floor using a flow of warm water in pipes. This system is better suited to new builds as pipes are laid onto a subfloor before the final surface is installed.
Tile & Stone
The best type of flooring to use with underfloor heating is tile and stone. Tile and stone have high thermal conducting properties, meaning that the heat from an underfloor heating pipe or wire transfers to the floor surface quickly. Tile and stone also retain heat well increasing efficiency and creating cosy and warm rooms.
Bathrooms
A space that was initially meant to be purely functional can become a place to relax and unwind with underfloor heating. Adding opulent accessories, such as a heated towel rails and soft area rugs, complement a luxurious bathroom design providing extra warmth and comfort, and creating a personal sanctuary that sets the tone for both the beginning and end of your day.
Benefits
Underfloor heating offers an efficient heating medium that’s out of sight and takes up no wall space. It works by effectively turning the entire floor area into a radiator via systems concealed within the floor structure. Temperature is controlled with a thermostat and you can pre-programme times for the heating to come on.
Underfloor heating is a more energy-efficient and cost effective way of gently heating a room. An underfloor system heats a larger surface area from the floor upwards at a lower temperature, resulting in a more consistent warmth. There are no cold spots or draughts.
Installing underfloor heating has grown in popularity over the years and real estate experts say it adds value to your home as a definite selling feature.
So if you’re planning a home renovation project or building a new home, consider installing underfloor heating. Your family will appreciate the warmth come wintertime.
For more information about the best tiles to install with underfloor heating, please visit the Pembroke Tile & Stone showroom on Serpentine Road. www.pts.bm
