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Underfloor heating pipes in screed

Underfloor heating pipes in screed maximise the performance of underfloor heating systems.

Clockwork UFH are experts in the installation of underfloor heating pipes in screed. Here, we explain how screed underfloor heating improves system performance.

Benefits of underfloor heating pipes in screed

  • Superior energy efficiency

Screed underfloor heating systems provide the best possible output of heat thanks to the thermal conductivity properties of the screed composition

  • Consistent heat distribution

Cementitious liquid screed, as supplied through Clockwork Underfloor Heating, can be laid very thinly, allowing for an even distribution of heat throughout a room

  • Responsive heat distribution

Cementitious screed facilitates a faster heat transfer so the room heats more quickly than traditional radiators. Its thermal mass also retains the heat for longer, once the system has been switched off

  • No voids/gaps around the pipework

Liquid screed self-compacts so covers all pipework without producing voids or gaps from which heat could escape down to the subfloor.

Key considerations of underfloor heating pipes in screed

Key considerations of underfloor heating pipes in screed are:

Installation – liquid screed must be mixed and installed to manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid cracks or poor heat output.

Drying times – while liquid screed can allow light footfall within 24 to 48 hours of installation, at least 7 days must pass before switching on the underfloor heating system, and even then only at 5°C above room temperature. The system can accelerate the drying process by gradually building the heat by 5°C per day.

Depth requirements – all pipework must be fully covered by the screed. It is therefore recommended that the screed is applied at a depth of 40-50mm, including the diameter of the pipes which is usually around 16-20mm.

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Installing UFH systems underneath screed

Installing UFH systems underneath screed begins with laying adequate insulation. At Clockwork Underfloor Heating we work to a four stage process:

  1. Planning and design based on the needs of the client and the property. We use CAD (Computer Aided Design) to design the best underfloor heating system for the space
  2. Lay insulation to prevent loss of heat down into the subfloor, keeping it in the room where it is needed instead
  3. Install the underfloor heating pipework, using the best quality components. The pipes are laid on the floor in a uniformly spaced loop configuration to ensure an even distribution of heat. The pipes are then secured to the insulation layer with clips to prevent floating during screeding
  4. Apply liquid screed to produce a robust, smooth and level surface on top of the underfloor heating system, ready for a final floor finish.

We collaborate with our sister company Clockwork Screed to provide our clients with a seamless service, with one point of contact for the entire installation.

Common underfloor heating installation mistakes

Common underfloor heating installation mistakes include:

  • Running the heating system too soon, making the screed crack
  • Spacing the pipework unevenly which leads to cold spots
  • Not using enough screed which causes voids

Not pressure testing the underfloor heating system before laying the screed to ensure there are no leaks.

Clockwork UFH: Professional solutions for underfloor heating pipes in screed

Clockwork UFH is a reputable team of underfloor heating experts. Get in touch to discuss your project.

Plan, Insulate, Heat and Screed
Our 4 Step Process

1

Planning & design

2

Lay insulation

3

Install underfloor heating

4

Pour liquid floor screed

PROJECT FOCUS

High end Residential, Manchester

We planned and installed an underfloor heating system into a contemporary home in Manchester. Not only that, we finished the installation with a smooth, even and high quality liquid floor screed.

Our team worked with the end user’s architect, ensuring the home benefitted with a visually striking but also inherently comfortable and environmentally conscious heating solution.

The client now enjoys an enhanced living experience, reduced energy bills, and an aesthetically uncompromised living space that flows through the whole house.

See What Our
Customers Say

“From our initial consultations to the flawless installation, Clockwork’s team demonstrated not just technical prowess, but a nuanced understanding of architectural essentials.

Their underfloor heating system effortlessly merged into our designs, preserving every ounce of spatial aesthetics while embedding an unperceivable, yet palpably comforting warmth throughout the residence.

In Clockwork, I found more than a solution provider; I discovered collaborators who understand, respect, and enhance the architectural journey. Their integrative approach, precision, and unyielding commitment to quality have made them my go-to partners for all underfloor heating needs.”

D. Smith
Architect, Cheshire

Why work with us
For your Underfloor Heating Project?

Expertise in underfloor heating: Specialists in underfloor heating installation for residential and commercial needs.

Unique advantages: Providing distinct benefits over traditional heating methods to both homeowners and businesses.

One-stop solution: Offering a comprehensive four-step process (Plan, Insulate, Heat, & Screed) for a streamlined underfloor heating solution.

Collaborative approach: In partnership with our sister company, Clockwork Screed, ensuring a unified solution for insulation, underfloor heating, and screeding.

Simplified project management: Eliminating the complexity of dealing with multiple suppliers, facilitating a smoother and hassle-free project execution for architects, contractors, and homeowners.