By interiors expert Liz Dennys, October 2009
Under-floor heating has come on leaps and bounds – the technology is improving all the time and whilst it may have had a mixed reaction in the past, I do feel that it has overcome all initials problems of difficult installation and repairing if broken – particularly hellish if under a stone floor! and has now become the heating of choice in designer kitchens and bathrooms.
Heated floors act as efficient low-level radiators, radiating heat energy evenly into the room, gently warming the living space through a combination of radiant energy and heat conduction. In a modern, well insulated room, where heat loss factors have been taken into consideration, underfloor heating can act as the primary heat source: in the majority of cases eliminating the need for radiators.
One of the advantages is that it saves wall space, which in tight rooms is the difference of extra cupboards or furniture as opposed to having to have a radiator. There are 2 main systems electric or water heating, once this is decided then the next options available are: heating mats, heating cables, thermal heating boards and carbon film depending on floor type. In my experience, the plumber/electrician you use will have a preference on system and supplier. It is lovely to come down in the morning to a warm stone floor whilst making your cup of tea!
For more information visit www.mottraminteriors.co.uk.
