Learn How to Pair Radiant Floor Heating with Laminate

Hello, thank you for joining us. My name is Lynn, I'm a customer service representative here at WarmlyYours, and I am joined by Greg. Today, we're going to be talking about pairing radiant floor heating with laminate flooring. The reason we do these sessions is to address any questions you may have. So, don't ever hesitate to ask a question if you think of it. I guarantee you that if you're thinking about it, someone else has the same question and is waiting for someone to ask it. You can use the "ask a question" button or the chat feature to submit your inquiries; either way is fine. We love answering questions, so feel free to jump in whenever you have one.

Starting out today, we'll be discussing our Environ floor heating system, which is specifically designed to go under laminate flooring. We'll also cover a project example to illustrate what goes into installing heating in a space, including the installation process. At the end, we'll discuss the project costs associated with the example we review, giving you an idea of what to expect financially for a project like this.

So, why should you consider heating laminate flooring? It offers more than just warm toes. When you add radiant floor heating under any flooring surface, you're essentially turning your flooring into a radiator that warms the entire room. This system places heat where you need it most, at the level of the room, unlike forced air systems where heat rises and may not be where you want it. In terms of comfort, radiant heating is definitely the way to go. It's also one of the fastest ways to install flooring and floor heating. If you're a novice who has installed laminate flooring once or perhaps never, but feel handy enough to give it a shot, adding floor heating is remarkably simple. Technical difficulties should not be a barrier for you at all, so if you're considering it, I highly encourage you to proceed.

When planning a project with laminate or floating floors, you'll want to use our Environ product. This heating system is specifically designed to go under a floating floor, making it one of the fastest floor heating systems to install on the market. As Greg mentioned, it's quite simple if you're relatively handy. You'll enjoy the benefits of radiating heat for a long time to come. The Environ system features a roll design, which we refer to as a flex roll. This means you can customize it to fit any shaped room, whether it's a perfect square or a room with lots of cuts and corners. The flex rolls can be cut and turned to fit your space, ensuring you achieve the coverage you're looking for.

In addition to flex rolls, we also offer easy mats, which are essentially the same product in a shorter roll. While you can cut and turn these as needed, they're designed for areas where you want localized heating or if you don't want to install floor heating throughout the entire room. A common application is in bathrooms, particularly in front of sinks or vanities, where this option works exceptionally well.

For installation, let’s take a look at the layers involved. Imagine a cross-section of a floor viewed from above, starting with your wood subfloor. This could also be a concrete subfloor, as long as the laminate you choose is compatible with that type of installation or suitable for below-grade installations. The layers include a cork underlayment, which we'll discuss further in terms of its importance for installation. The cork helps insulate and directs heat upward into the room while also protecting the Environ system and providing a place to connect the cold lead. On top of the cork, you'll lay down the Environ flex roll, followed by the laminate flooring.

When selecting laminate flooring to go over your radiant heating, it's crucial to choose a product with no or very minimal backing. Many laminates come with some form of backing, often foam or cork, so ensure that if it does have backing, it's minimal and that the assembled plank has an R-value of less than one. This is essential to avoid trapping heat. Additionally, we recommend checking the warranty of your flooring by consulting with the manufacturer to determine if their product is compatible with radiant floor heating. You should also inquire about the maximum temperature that the radiant heating can reach with their specific product.

To ensure compatibility, look for the installation PDF either from the carton of the flooring you're considering or online. This document typically contains warranty requirements, maximum temperature guidelines, and installation recommendations for radiant heating. Ultimately, this is what the manufacturer will reference if there is a warranty claim.

Regarding temperature limits for laminates, these can vary depending on the specific product. The thermostats we offer have a pre-programmed maximum of 82 degrees, which is compatible with nearly everything on the market. However, if your laminate has a significantly higher or lower limit, you can set a custom maximum temperature range on your thermostat. It's important to remember that while 82 degrees may seem warm, it will effectively heat the room and other objects over time, creating a comfortable environment.

Now, let’s discuss a project example that took place in Jefferson, New Jersey, where laminate flooring was installed over a wood subfloor in a second-floor bedroom. To obtain a SmartPlan for your project, simply send us a sketch of the room you want to heat, along with its dimensions. It doesn’t have to be an architectural drawing; we receive sketches on everything from napkins to pizza boxes. The important part is having the general shape and accurate dimensions. We will take this information and create a design using computer-aided design software, providing you with a detailed layout, material requirements, and electrical specifications.

In the project plan, you’ll see a triangle with two lines indicating the start point. The roll designated as number one is a continuous 30-foot roll, which can be cut without damaging the heating cable. You will cut the backing that holds the wire spacing in place and helps distribute heat, ensuring you follow the layout provided. The leads from the mat will connect to the thermostat, so be sure to indicate where you'd like the thermostat placed when you send in your plan.

In this project, the Environ flex roll covered a total area of 188 square feet, with one roll covering 105 square feet. This coverage ensures the room is adequately warmed, providing a comfortable temperature without needing to cover the entire space. The wattage for this project was approximately 1200 watts, drawing 11 amps, and it used a 15 amp, 120 volt non-GFCI breaker. The operating cost for this room was about four cents per hour, totaling around 32 cents for an eight-hour period, based on an average rate of eight cents per kilowatt-hour. If you provide us with your local kilowatt-hour usage before we prepare your quote, we can give you precise energy usage estimates tailored to your location.

Now, let's discuss testing your system. If you haven't done this before, it may sound daunting, but it's actually quite simple. You will need two devices to test the system. First, use a digital ohms meter to check the product right out of the box. It's important to choose an inexpensive digital multimeter, which can often be found for around $20. We can guide you through the testing process, which involves connecting probes to the cold lead and checking the specified numbers.

You will perform this test right after unpacking the product, after laying down the floor, and before connecting your thermostat. The second device you'll use during installation is a circuit check. This device sends low voltage through the system as you work. If it detects an interruption, it will alert you, allowing you to address the issue without damaging the roll. Accidental cuts to the cable do not mean you've ruined the roll; it simply requires a minor repair.

The circuit check is also useful if there is a delay in your installation, such as waiting for the flooring to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity. If another trade enters the space and inadvertently cuts a wire, the circuit check will alert you, allowing you to resolve the issue before proceeding.

Next, let’s move on to the installation process for the Environ flex rolls. Begin by clearing the subfloor of any debris and dust to ensure the cork underlayment can lay flat. Proper subfloor preparation is crucial for any flooring installation, whether or not radiant heating is involved. Follow any specific instructions from the flooring company regarding subfloor requirements, such as thickness and levelness.

Once the subfloor is prepared, dry fit the cork underlayment to ensure it covers the entire floor. The cork will float on the subfloor, so you don’t need to adhere it with thinset. Arrange the cork in a staggered, brick-like pattern to avoid aligning all seams, which helps prevent shifting over time. Secure the seams with tape, preferably duct tape for the best hold.

After laying the cork, you will begin installing the Environ system. Follow the SmartPlan closely, ensuring you start where indicated and cut and turn according to the layout. If necessary, use duct tape or masking tape to secure the Environ rolls to the cork. As you position the rolls, be mindful of the heating elements. Maintain the specified distance between the loops to ensure even heating throughout the room.

Next, install the floor sensor, which comes with the thermostat. Be sure to install it at least six to eight inches into an open loop, avoiding any crossing over the heating wires. The sensor wire should not run in the same conduit as the cold leads for the mat. While backup sensors are available for peace of mind, they are rarely needed. If you choose to install one, it can be connected to the thermostat later if the original sensor fails.

When placing the floor sensor, it doesn’t have to be in the center of the room; it can be along the edge as long as it’s positioned correctly. Avoid placing it under rugs or in direct sunlight, as these factors can affect temperature readings.

Finally, when you install the laminate flooring, the process is similar to a standard installation, with the added caution of being careful with your tools. Follow local electrical and building codes, and consider hiring a licensed electrician for the wiring to ensure safety and compliance. Cold leads can be run to a junction box if necessary, but this is typically only required for larger applications.

Our floor heating thermostats range from the nSpire Touch Wi-Fi thermostat, which features a touchscreen and app control, to the non-Wi-Fi version that retains the touchscreen functionality. We also offer the enhanced thermostat, which is fully programmable but requires a bit more effort to set up, and the nTrust, a simple on/off thermostat.

When considering the cost of an Environ system, the total MSRP for the example we discussed, which included two rolls, a thermostat, circuit check, and cork, was about $1,767. This is a reasonable investment for a heating system that provides comfort in spaces like bedrooms or rooms over unheated garages.

Are there any questions so far on anything we've covered? We did receive some customer questions previously. One question is whether a pre-attached underlayment can be used with the Environ system. Generally, you may be able to use it, but the entire laminate piece should have an R-value of less than one. If the R-value below the flooring is greater than that above it, you might be in the clear. It’s best to consult with us for specific guidance.

Another question pertains to which floor materials transfer heat more efficiently. The density of the flooring plays a significant role; denser materials like tile and stone transfer heat more effectively and retain warmth longer. However, laminates and vinyl can also work, albeit they may take longer to heat up compared to stone or tile.

A customer shared their experience with laminate shrinking after installation. The key issue is often improper acclimation of the flooring before installation. It's essential to allow the flooring to adjust to the room's humidity and temperature to prevent gaps or buckling.

For larger rooms, the SmartPlan will guide you on how to lay out the heating system effectively. If you have specific power requirements or need to add additional circuits, we can help design a plan that meets your needs.

Regarding operational costs, if you provide us with your local electric rates when submitting your SmartPlan, we can calculate your hourly costs. We also have an online operating cost calculator available on our website.

Lastly, a question about using the system solely for comfort while relying on a main heating system. It can be used as a primary heat source, but it depends on the heat loss of the room. We can assist you in calculating whether radiant heating will suffice for your space.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask. We appreciate your participation in this session and look forward to assisting you with your radiant heating needs. Thank you for joining us today, and we hope to see you again soon.