Most customers presume that underfloor heating is only suitable for hard-wearing flooring such as tiles, laminate and vinyl – but carpet can also be used. It’s no surprise that the idea of carpet and underfloor heating is attractive to most, especially if you’re wanting a warm, cosy environment. While underfloor heating and carpet is achievable, there can be some things to consider. Below, we take you through some factors to think about before using carpet for your underfloor heating.
It’s important to make sure that your chosen carpet is acceptable for underfloor heating. For example, if the carpet is too thick, you won’t be able to feel the heat. It’s recommended that if the heat source is coming from a boiler, the tog should be no thicker than 2.5 (including the underlay) and 1.5 if running from a heat pump. Additionally, it could be beneficial to consider hessian backing rather than rubber carpet, as this type of carpet allows heat to travel through, allowing you to reap the benefits of under flooring heating.
As suggested above, an underlay is needed for carpet being installed over underfloor heating. The tog rating of the underlay is less important in contrast to the carpet, but it can prove the tipping point in whether your chosen carpet is appropriate. Some underlay suppliers will have information on tog rating, where you will see common figures such as 0.5-0.6. Additionally, it’s important to think about the underlay’s durability, insulation and noise reduction properties.
Heat requirements of different rooms will depend on a number of details including insulation, the use of the room etc. Making sure you know the tog of your carpet and underlay ensures that the underfloor heating is set at the correct temperature. It’s key to add that no underfloor heating should surpass 27 degrees, as most domestic rooms will not be in need of a heat output anywhere near this.
If you’d like some more information about carpets and underfloor heating, we’d be happy to help! We have over 15 years of experience working within the flooring industry and have helped many clients with the supply of their perfect carpet. If you’re around the Oxford area, come and visit our showroom where you can feel and see the products in person. Moreover, you can give us a call on 01865 311 807, or fill out our online enquiry form where a member of our team will be in touch shortly.
