Are you considering underfloor heating for tiles in your new home or remodel project? Let’s cut to the chase – terracotta is a fantastic choice for tile that works with radiant floor heat!
The value of the North American underfloor heating industry is expected to grow at 4.9% annually due to the increased demand for efficient heating systems, especially in areas experiencing changing climatic conditions. Moreover, underfloor heating (UFH) is deemed energy efficient, making it a popular choice among those seeking an environmentally friendly and comfortable option.
The good news is that UFH is an installation that professional plumbers or heating engineers can do. One of the best floor materials for underfloor heating is terracotta tiles, which efficiently transfer heat from the UFH to the floor’s surface. They are durable, transfer heat efficiently, and offer consistent warmth.
Radiant Floor Heat and Terracotta Tiles Are Highly Compatible
One of the major advantages of using tiles in UFH is their excellent ability to conduct heat, that is, they quickly absorb warmth and distribute it across the entire floor surface. For example, terracotta tiles are made from natural clay material and have good thermal conductivity, meaning they efficiently transfer heat from the underfloor heating systems to the tile’s surface. Their porous nature further boosts heat transfer properties.
Furthermore, they have a natural ability to retain heat, meaning that even after the UFH system has been switched off, the tiles continue to radiate warmth, offering long-lasting comfort. Terracotta tiles possess a high thermal mass, absorbing and slowly storing heat. This helps regulate indoor temperatures by soaking up heat during the day and releasing it progressively at night. Its porous nature allows airflow to cool the air as it passes over the surface.
Terracotta tiles made from natural clay have the ability to retain and disperse water, contributing to natural cooling. Studies indicate that terracotta enables ‘evaporative cooling,’ lowering indoor temperatures by up to 50°F in arid and semi-arid regions. So, terracotta tiles provide cooling benefits during the warmer months or summer thanks to their thermal properties. Plus, they are a low-maintenance flooring choice!
Plus, terracotta tiles offer a classic and natural aesthetic that complements interior design styles. They come in different color variations and textures, making it possible to personalize floor surfaces, giving a space a unique, warm, and natural look. Terracotta is also a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand the wear and tear of daily activities.
However, it is vital to choose the right tile for your UFH. Remember, thicker tiles may take longer to heat, but happily, they can also retain hot temperatures longer. Another vital factor to consider when underfloor heating tiles is the natural expansion and contraction of tiles. In this regard, make sure that expansion joints are installed to accommodate the process. Fortunately, terracotta tiles don’t expand and contract!
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The Plumber’s Role With Underfloor Heating for Tiles
Experts at Anytime Plumbing, Inc. say installing an underfloor heating system involves several steps and processes. One major task is removing any existing flooring and preparing the subfloor. It is critical that the subfloor is level and free of debris because jagged floors may lead to irregular heat distribution. To illustrate, high places may not receive adequate heat, while low spots may receive excessive heat. This situation can create discomfort and even potential damage to the flooring.
Another important consideration with underfloor heating for tiles is proper pipe installation. Debris on the subfloor can hamper the proper installation of the heating pipes, which can cause rutted spacing and uneven heating. Furthermore, damage to the pipes during installation can occur. Therefore, a level subfloor ensures that the heating pipes are of a consistent depth, enabling even heat transfer across the entire floor area.
Hiring a qualified plumber is highly recommended to make sure that the heating system is installed correctly. While some processes can be DIY projects, it’s strongly advised to contract the services of a qualified plumber or heating engineer to do the job.
To illustrate, a skilled plumber can design and install the underfloor heating for tiles system. Their responsibilities also include ensuring proper pipe layout, insulation, and flow rates. The contracted plumber will also verify if the chosen terracotta floor tiles are compatible with the heating system. Prior to tiling, the heating system must be tested to ensure that there is no leak. Once the system is tested and vetted, flooring installation can commence.
Note that there are two types of underfloor heating systems. The wet system uses water heated by a boiler, while electric systems rely on wires to generate heat. Depending on the chosen system, it will ultimately be connected to either the boiler or heat pump after installing the flooring.
Terracotta tiles are some of the best materials for radiant heating systems. By working closely with a competent tile installer, plumber, or heating engineer, it is possible to create a cozy and stylish space.
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