As Colorado residents, we understand that the climate of this state is unique. Many people joke about needing heating in the morning and air conditioning in the afternoon on the same day. Heating systems have to be reliable, comfortable, and energy efficient. A system that is easy to maintain is always beneficial. It is important to know what options exist to ensure comfort throughout these temperamental changes in weather so your home can be fully customized to your specifications and meet your expectations. One of the options is radiant floor heating.

What Is Radiant Floor Heating?

Radiant floor heating systems have been in use since ancient Rome. Fires would heat the air under marble floor tiles, warming them up, and the heat would radiate up into the room above. Modern systems work much the same way, but have advanced technology to ensure they are safer and energy efficient.

There are a number of modern insulation options that can help ensure the efficiency of what is currently available. Different types of insulations are recommended for each type of system. To ensure proper insulation is installed, information about the radiant floor systems commonly in use should be compared.

Key Benefits of Radiant Floor Heating

Electric systems are easier to install than other systems. They are ideal for single-room applications or retrofitting during renovations. Thin wires or electric mats are placed directly under the floor covering, which limits what materials can be used for the flooring. The safest and most efficient materials for use with an electric system are either tile or laminate.

Hydronic systems use a central boiler to heat water and circulate it through small pipes installed in the floors. There are multiple ways to install the fixtures, so this type of system can be added to existing buildings as well as new constructions. The way this type of system operates means it can be used with more types of floor covers. Tile, laminate, decorative concrete, and hardwood are popular options when choosing a hydronic system.

Pros of Radiant Heating

With a focus on green energy in order to keep Colorado’s natural beauty intact, many people integrate green sources of electricity into their radiant heating systems. Both electric and hydronic systems are compatible with solar systems. A number of incentives are available for people who choose to integrate solar into their custom homes. They are also more energy efficient than many other types of heating systems.

It is much easier to keep a consistent temperature throughout the home. Unlike forced air systems, which have temperature fluctuations, and ventilation systems that create hot and cold spots, the heat radiates evenly throughout the rooms where it is installed. There is no sudden chill immediately after the heater brings a room to temperature and shuts off, as there is with forced air.

Radiant heating systems are invisible. There is no need for vent covers or pipes that may need to be covered. Everything is hidden neatly beneath the floor covering to ensure a clean aesthetic. There is no need to place furniture or décor in a way that ensures vents are open and air can circulate neatly throughout a room.

The underfloor installation also ensures that the heating system sounds quiet. There is no change in ambient noise level when the system turns on or shuts off to provide a consistent temperature. This is useful for people who prefer consistent volumes, sleep lightly, or are easily disturbed.

Because there is no forced air, the heating elements do not blow around dust and allergens. There is no need to replace air filters every month, and the ductwork will not need to be cleaned.

Cons of Radiant Heating

Flooring must be reinstalled on existing construction. Because these systems are hidden underneath the floor covering, the floors where the systems are being installed must be removed and put back into place. This is why it is recommended that radiant heating systems be installed at the time of original construction when possible.

Once the system is installed, the floor will be raised by about an inch. This is especially relevant when it comes to renovations, as steps may need to be taken to ensure a safe transition from one room to the next.

Radiant heating systems do not work well in rooms with carpet. Much like wearing a heavy coat in winter, the carpet acts as an insulator, trapping the heat in the floor rather than allowing it to radiate into the room.

The initial cost of installation is more than that of a standard forced air system. This can be intimidating to a number of people. However, according to Forbes, having a radiant heating system is more energy-efficient and cost-efficient over time.

Why Choose Easton Homes for Radiant Floor Heating

Of course, all the information you need cannot be found in a short article. Our experts here at Easton Homes have experience helping homeowners through the decision-making process by ensuring everything you need to know is at your fingertips. Everything you need to know, from the best type of insulation to use in your custom design to maintenance of a radiant floor heating system, is available to you.

We look forward to using our knowledge of sustainable practices and customization techniques to help integrate the most modern and efficient heating systems into your home – whether in the form of a new construction or remodel. We understand and utilize the best practices for the protection of both the natural environment and the comfortable environment of your home. Contact us today to find out how we can use our experience to help create the best living experience available.