The Different Underfloor Heating Systems Explained In Depth

Underfloor heating is fast becoming the most popular form of household heating, particularly with new builds. But one needs to be careful when talking about underfloor heating because – while it all essentially does the same thing – there are many different types of underfloor heating. 

Probably the most popular, or most widely used, are underfloor water heating systems and electric underfloor heating systems. 

The most important distinction between electric and water – also called “wet” systems – is in the structure of the sub-floor. Wet systems are particularly suitable for new floor constructions where the make-up of the subfloor can provide space for the pipework and cement screed. For floors that are already in place, where total floor height can be an problem, an electric underfloor heating system would be the favoured alternative owing to the low profile (3mm) of the heating cable: these systems are the perfect option for renovation projects or wooden subfloors. 

In both cases in point, electric or water underfloor heating systems should produce sufficient energy to provide the principal heating needs for a new or well insulated building, exclusive of the need for additional radiator heating. Nevertheless, where the two systems vary is in the running costs: plainly put, for hot water systems, gas-heated boilers are more cost-effective to run per KW of heat output than using electricity per KW hour to run electric UFH. 

As well as these basic types of underfloor heating you can get variations on the wet heating – instead of the water being heated via the usual gas boiler (or electric) it can also be heated via; Ground source heat pumps or, via solar energy or even air source heat pumps. 

However – when all is said and done – we are talking electric or water underfloor heating, the choice is yours. Simply remember; for existing sub-floors, electric UFH will be the solitary realistic answer; for new sub-floors the lesser running cost benefits will constantly prevail over the higher installation costs when taken over the long-term.

20 Dec 2011
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Choosing the Best Carpet Underlay to Suit Your Desires

If you're planning to install carpeting in your home, one way you can make sure that any carpet you purchase lasts a long time is to get a carpet underlay. This type of under-carpet textile is a layer of material inserted between your floor and the carpet which acts to insulate and shield your carpet. One added advantage is that it serves as an added mass for additional cushioning; this way, any carpet you have feels plush and lush underfoot.

A carpet underlay also functions to absorb moisture, heat, and sound. It cushions the impact of many different feet that trod on the carpet each day , therefore helping preserve your carpet longer.

There are numerous types of materials that are used for carpet underlay, among which is waffle rubber and different carpet underlay froth. This type is the most common and comes in varying degrees of thickness and weight, depending on the kind of carpet you have. Most carpet salesmen suggest the heaviest one you'll find, although the thickest is not always always the very best. The most costly sort of waffle rubber underlay is flat rubber, which is sure to last as long as your carpet will. Even when your rug is due for replacement, your flat rubber underlay will still be untouched and in fine condition.

One other type of underlay, called bonded polyurethane chips underlay, is made out of recycled furniture. If you are an active environmentalist, this sort will surely catch your fancy. Nimbus underlay, on the other hand, is simple to clean and handle, while Cirrus underlay is a good heat and sound insulator. It works best for houses during cold weather conditions, and if keeping the noise down is a priority for the homeowner.

If you're all for comfy carpeting, Cumulus underlay can provide good cushioning, and if you've a often trodden-on carpet that sees a lot of foot traffic, a Silver Lining Underlay is the best material to get. For offices and other commercial conglomerates that need industrial strength carpeting, using Contract and Super Contract underlay will cut down on the carpeting budget.

Getting carpet underlay is a great way to insulate your carpets by effectively trapping the heat and keeping the cool it of your floors. This may save you a lot on your heat bills during the cold winter months. Sound-proofing your house is also one of many advantages that these under-carpet materials do. So if your downstairs neighbor throws plenty of noisy parties, or if you are a burgeoning rock musician who practices on your drums each night, a good carpet underlay will keep the neighbor’s noise out, and your noise in, giving you assurance every time.

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18 Oct 2011
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