Installing underfloor heating in your home can be a great way to increase comfort and reduce your heating bills. With some planning and preparation, it is possible for a motivated DIYer to install underfloor heating without hiring a professional. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk through all the key steps involved in a DIY underfloor heating installation.
Choose the Right Type of Underfloor Heating
The first step is deciding which type of underfloor heating system to install. There are two main options:
Electric Underfloor Heating
- Uses electric heating cables or mats
- Relatively affordable and easy to install
- Can be installed over nearly any subfloor
- Ideal for smaller projects like a single room or bathroom remodel
Hydronic Underfloor Heating
- Uses hot water flowing through tubing or PEX pipes
- Provides more even heat distribution
- Compatible with many heating systems like boilers and heat pumps
- Better for whole-house installation or larger projects
For a first-time DIY project, I would recommend electric underfloor heat. The mats are easy to work with and the installation process is straightforward. Hydronic systems require more specialized tools and skills.
Plan the Layout
Once you choose a system, the next step is planning the layout:
- Measure the room and create a scale drawing showing all fixed objects like walls, doors, and cabinets
- Mark the locations of things like toilets and vanities to avoid later
- Sketch out the heating cable or mat layout following manufacturer spacing guidelines
- Order all required materials and supplies for the project
Take time on this step - a good layout will make installation much easier and help avoid issues.
Prep the Subfloor
Before installing heating elements, you need to ensure the subfloor is ready:
- Remove any existing flooring like carpet, tile, or laminate
- Inspect the subfloor and make any repairs needed to uneven or damaged areas
- Clean thoroughly to remove debris that could potentially damage heating cables
- For electric systems, apply primer if needed to create a smooth surface
Proper subfloor prep is crucial for even heat distribution and preventing damage to heating elements.
Install the Underfloor Heating System
Now comes the key step - installing the underfloor heating system:
For Electric Systems:
- Roll out heating mats according to your layout
- Use damage-resistant tape to hold mats in place during installation
- Connect lead wires to the thermostat, testing operation before proceeding
- Carefully lay out any loose heating cables needed for irregular areas
- Inspect all connections thoroughly before covering
For Hydronic Systems:
- Secure tubing using staples, clips, or fastening tape per layout
- Run supply and return manifolds accessible for bleeding air later
- Pressure test system for leaks before covering tubing
- Insulate tubing well to maximize heat efficiency into the floor
Follow all manufacturer instructions closely during this process. Any mistakes could lead to problems down the line.
Add Floor Coverings
Once the heating system is installed, you can add the final floor coverings:
- For tile, use a crack isolation membrane prior to setting tile
- For other surfaces, install following standard practices but avoid penetrating heating elements
- Avoid routing flooring over areas with loose cables vs. mats
- If needed, install boards or panels to spread weight before carpeting
The flooring choice does not affect operation, but be mindful of clearance requirements and fastener locations.
Complete the Installation
The last steps involve finishing up:
- For electric systems, connect the thermostat and test operation
- For hydronic systems, bleed air, pressurize, and check for leaks
- Program the thermostat with proper floor temp limits
- Cover with caution for first week or so to allow any adhesives to fully cure
Following the manufacturer's break-in schedule will help maximize the life of the heating system.
With good planning and care, installing underfloor heating is a very viable DIY project. Pay close attention to layout, take time preparing the subfloor, and follow all instructions when installing the heating elements and coverings. While challenging, with patience it is possible to have warm floors without hiring a professional!