The growing popularity of underfloor heating in residential and commercial buildings is unlikely to diminish any time soon.
Choosing the right underfloor heating system for the budget, location and environment is key to maximising its benefits. How it is installed must also be carefully considered for the underfloor heating system to perform to the highest standards.
Types of underfloor heating systems
There are two main types of underfloor heating systems: wet and dry.
Wet underfloor heating systems are connected to a boiler or renewable alternative such as an air source heat pump. Water is channelled through pipework under the floor to be heated by the central heating system.
Dry underfloor heating systems are powered by electricity. They consist of heating cables, ribbons and films. There are loose wire systems which are ideal for non-standard shaped rooms, and mat systems for laminated floors.
Screed can be used for both wet and dry underfloor heating systems to encase the heating elements and transfer the heat to the room. The screed also provides a smooth, level surface onto which flooring such as tiles, vinyl or laminate can be laid.
Types of screed used for UFH systems
When choosing screed for UFH systems, the decision usually comes down to dry sand and cement screed or liquid/self-levelling screed.
Traditional sand and cement screed is suitable for smaller projects, but is less thermally efficient than liquid screed, and requires a thicker application which increases costs and impacts response times and the efficiency of the heat distribution.
Liquid screed is widely considered the best option for underfloor heating systems, primarily due to its exceptional thermal conductivity. Liquid screed is poured onto the area and left to spread and self-level, making it ideal for larger spaces.
Do you need screed on top of underfloor heating?
Many contractors would advise that yes, you do need screed on top of underfloor heating because it enhances the performance of the underfloor heating system.
It is certainly advisable to put screed over wet underfloor heating systems because it absorbs the heat from the pipes and distributes the heat evenly across the room.
Screed is also widely used for dry underfloor heating systems, although thin electric underfloor heating mats may benefit more from a flexible self-levelling compound.
Key benefits of screed for UFH
Thermal efficiency – when liquid screed is poured onto an underfloor heating system it naturally envelopes the pipes. This prevents cavities from developing which would allow heat to escape.
Quicker response times – liquid screed can be laid as thinly as 25mm, with a typical total thickness of 40-50mm for UFH which distributes the heat quickly when the system is switched on.
Energy and cost savings – by enhancing the efficiency of the underfloor heating system, the screed helps to reduce energy consumption and costs.
Minimal shrinkage – liquid screed has impressively low shrinkage rates of under 0.05% and is less prone to cracking.
Speedy installation – liquid screed installers can cover up to 1000m² a day which minimises labour costs and time on site.
Clockwork UFH for screed underfloor heating systems
Clockwork UFH supplies and installs screed for underfloor heating systems. We collaborate with our sister company Clockwork Screed to provide a full service package of design and planning, laying insulation, installing the underfloor heating system and covering it with screed.
For more information contact us on 0161 546 6945.
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.
