Under Floor Heating Insulation
by diysuper on Jan.26, 2011, under DIY Tips, Heating, Home Improvements, Underfloor Heating
If you are thinking of purchasing an underfloor heating system, insulation is important and should be considered an integral part of the system. If the underfloor heating system is to be laid on a sub-floor that does not have insulation beneath it then it should be installed directly beneath the underfloor heating system.
Advantages of Insulation
Underfloor heating Insulation will improve heat up times and minimise the cost of running the system. Companies offer a variety of underfloor heating insulation options and you should choose one that is appropriate for the type of floor that is being installed. Insulation boards come in a range of prices and each had its own advantages and disadvantages. Some can only be installed under tiled floors whilst others are suitable for a range of floors.
Insulation Primers
Some companies also offer primers, which can improve the efficiency of the underfloor heating system by reducing heat loss. The primer is simply applied, using a roller or paintbrush. However, it is not intended to be an alternative to thermal insulation boards, but is designed for use in situations where the increase in floor height associated with thermal backing boards would cause problems.
Fitting Insulation
Insulation boards can be applied to concrete floors using a flexible concrete adhesive. The boards should then be sealed, using an appropriate sealant. For wooden floors, the boards are applied using an adhesive and then screwed down. In wet areas, such as bathrooms, it is recommended that the fixing hole is primed with a silicone sealant before the boards are screwed down.