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Installing Floor Tiles On Radiant Underfloor Heating

Radiant floor heating has now been in our homes for a few years and has made a big impact on the sales of ceramic tiles. Some people go for underfloor heating in the form of pipe work laid under the concrete or screed with hot water running through it. This method is favoured by some people that are building a new house or having a major renovation project, specially for DIY enthusiasts. Another type of heating that is often used and preferred is the electric cable.

Electric floor heating can be incorporated under floor tiles (ceramic, porcelain, natural stone), wood, carpet, mirror. Heated mirrors are now also available. Although custom floor heating mats are easy to install, on completion, will need to be inspected by a qualified electrician. If you need to install underfloor heating onto a screeded floor prior to tiling, you have to do the following.

First, lay on the cable, following the manufacture's advice and test for faults. Make sure the cable is secured onto the floor before next step. Then apply a latex based levelling compound up to the cable height. Before fully cured apply another coat of levelling compound. This layer protects the cable during tile installation (lifting and re-laying). It also allows the carrying out of safer repairs to the tiling if ever needed.

After having done the previous steps, retest the cable for faults. Tile floor as per usual making sure to use the appropriate fixing material according to tile and substrate. On completion of the tiling allow a minimum of 2 weeks before using the heating making sure you follow the adhesive manufacture's instructions for the gradual increasing of the temperature on a daily basis until the material has finally cured.

So now you can fully enjoy your warm floor with total confidence and satisfaction.