Basements are notoriously chilly, often preventing homeowners from fully enjoying their entertainment spaces. This project solved that "cold-feet" problem by installing a high-efficiency electric floor heating system beneath the carpet, turning a standard basement theater into the ultimate cozy retreat. By combining comfort with smart insulation and expert installation techniques, we ensured this room provides warmth that matches its high-end visuals.
Project Details
- Location: Lake Zurich, IL
- Heated Space Type: Home Theater Room (Basement)
- Square Footage: 188 sq. ft. (Heated Area)
- Technical Specs: 240V System | 9.3 total Amps | 2,232 Watts
- Operating Cost: ~$0.33 per hour
- $2.64 per day (8 hours)
- $79.20 per month
- Products Used: Environ™ Flex Rolls, Cork Underlayment
- Floor Type: Carpet (Stretch-In) over Existing Concrete Slab
Silent, Invisible, and Ultra-Cozy Heat
This Lake Zurich homeowner wanted to maximize their basement’s potential but faced the common hurdle of a cold concrete subfloor. Traditional forced-air heating often leaves basement floors feeling like ice, especially in a theater setting where you want to kick off your shoes and relax.
The solution was a comprehensive floor warming system. To combat the heat loss associated with concrete slabs, Cork Insulating Underlayment was installed first. This ensures the heat travels upward into the room rather than being absorbed by the cold ground.
Installation Note: To achieve a professional, flush finish, the installation team carved small channels into the carpet padding to house the power supply cables. This simple step prevented any unsightly lumps in the carpet. Additionally, by keeping the heating elements exactly one foot away from the walls, the installers were able to use a power stretcher for the carpet without risking any damage to the system.
The result is a whisper-quiet, thermally consistent environment where the only thing you’ll feel is the warmth underfoot.
Video of carpet seaming and stretching
Featured Products
Environ™ Easy Mat & Flex Roll: Ultra-thin aluminum foil heating elements designed to provide even, gentle warmth under carpet and laminate.
SmartStat™ Programmable Thermostat: A user-friendly control that allows you to schedule the heat to be ready exactly when "showtime" starts.
Cork Underlayment: A natural, high-performance insulator that prevents heat loss into the concrete subfloor, increasing efficiency.
Circuit Check™: A specialized tool used during installation to ensure the heating system remains fully functional before the flooring is laid.
