Underfloor heating systems have become all the rage among homeowners in the 2020s, and we are always asked if luxury vinyl flooring can withstand the changes in heat in order to place over it. The good news is that vinyl tiles and boards are compatible with underfloor heating - and Galloway Flooring has installed within many modern and renovated homes that desire such a feature.
The only real precaution with such an installation is to ensure that your underfloor heating system has been installed properly - being level and smooth for the vinyl installation.
That is not to say that there are no further considerations when installing vinyl flooring on top of your system. You will need to ensure that your heating system has an automatic cut-off so that temperatures do not exceed 27oC. Should it reach a level of 32oC, it can seriously discolour your vinyl flooring.
Notable Precautions
You will have to switch off your underfloor heating system for 48 hours prior to and proceeding the installation of your vinyl flooring. Vinyl flooring needs the correct temperature of your floor to install and the right amount of time to settle before the system is turned back on.
Following the vinyl installation, your underfloor heating temperature will need to be raised gradually in increments of 5oC each day until you reach the desired level. One of the big no-no's is installing heating systems over an existing floor covering. Make sure that any existing flooring is fully removed and your subfloor prepared in line with manufacturer's specifications.
Thermal Resistance
The thermal resistance of your vinyl flooring will effect the temperature output of your underfloor heating system. For optimal performance, you should purchase a vinyl floor product that that has a thermal resistance below 0.10m2 K/W.
If your vinyl does not match that specification, the temperature of the underfloor heating would need to be set much higher to ensure transmission of heat. It is much better to have a vinyl flooring brand that meets the expected heating levels than have to compensate.
What About Cooling?
If you go the other way and opt for an underfloor cooling system, vinyl flooring is perfect for that too!
The main consideration for placing vinyl over these systems is that the cooling water supply temperature should not go below 18oC, as it will begin to produce condensation which could damage your floor covering. Also, room thermostats must not be set at temperatures more than 5oC below the room temperature.
Most vinyl flooring brands available at Galloway Flooring Denton are suiatble for use on underfloor heating systems, providing that they are professionally installed.
If you are looking for that perfect combination of warmth and comfort in your flooring choice, visit us in our Galloway Flooring store to discover the advantages of luxury flooring tiles and boards that slot in nicely with your home aesthetic.
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