Our Guide to Heated Concrete Floors
Table of Contents
What are Heated Concrete Floors?
Heated concrete floors use radiant heating systems to warm a space. Radiant heating works by transferring heat directly through the floor surface. The heat then rises evenly, warming the entire room. Concrete floors are ideal for radiant heating. Concrete holds and spreads heat well, making the system efficient.
Benefits
- Quick heat-up times: Concrete provides fast heat-up times when paired with an underfloor heating system.
- Efficient heat retention: Concrete retains heat well due to its high thermal mass.
- Durability: Polished concrete flooring is wear-resistant, making it a long-lasting option.
- Ease of maintenance: Polished concrete floors are easy to clean, reducing upkeep time and effort.
Key Considerations for Heated Concrete Floors
- Ideal locations: Bathrooms, basements, entryways or mudrooms, and garages are popular places to install heated concrete floors.
- Factors affecting performance: Several factors affect how well heated concrete floors perform. For example, proper insulation is important to prevent heat loss, and the thickness of the concrete can impact how quickly the floor heats up.
- Choosing a finish: The finish for your concrete floor should effectively transfer heat without breaking down under regular heating and cooling. It must also withstand foot traffic, resist stains, and require little maintenance. Some options include polished concrete, textured overlays, epoxy coatings, and stained concrete.
Cost of Heated Concrete Floors
Installing heated concrete floors can vary in cost depending on the size of the area. Heated concrete floors provide long-term savings due to their energy efficiency. They use less energy compared to forced-air systems because the heat is distributed evenly and retained longer. The efficient heat transfer can result in lower utility bills over time, offsetting initial installation costs.
Perfect for New Build Projects or Remodels
Radiantly heated concrete flooring works for both new projects and renovations.
- New build projects: Polished concrete is often used in new builds. In-slab cables can be installed as the floor is laid, making it simple and efficient.
- Remodeling existing concrete floors: Radiant floor heating can be installed in concrete floors during a remodel by placing heating mats or cables over the subfloor. These are then embedded in a thin layer of concrete or a self-leveling compound and a polished concrete overlay.
In-Slab Heating Cable
In-slab electric radiant heating cables are designed to heat concrete floors by embedding heating elements directly into the slab.
How In-Slab Cables Heat Concrete Floors
- Installation: When installing a new concrete slab, the heating cables are laid out on the base layer before pouring the concrete and typically reinforced with wire mesh or rebar.
- Concrete Pour: Once the cables are in place, concrete is poured over them and allowed to cure.
- Heating Process: When the heating system is turned on, electricity flows through the heating cables, generating heat. The concrete slab absorbs this heat and radiates it upward into the space above.
- Thermal Mass: Concrete has a high thermal mass, meaning it retains heat well and releases it slowly, providing consistent warmth over time. This reduces temperature fluctuations and can help maintain energy efficiency.
- Temperature Control: In-slab heating cables can be controlled via a thermostat.
Note: Please refer to the manufacturer installation manuals for complete installation instructions.
Our Floor Heating Experts Are Here To Help
We know there’s a lot to consider when planning a project like heated concrete floors. That’s why our team of experts is more than happy to help answer any questions you have or recommend the best products for the job. Fill out this contact form or call us at 1-866-558-3369 today!