Installing a Floor over Underfloor Heating
Installing a Floor over Underfloor Heating in a Devon Barn Conversion
Flooring Matters completed a project at a stunning barn conversion in Cheriton Fitzpaine, near Exeter in Devon. The homeowners chose a wet underfloor heating system as their primary heat source. For the flooring, they opted for Quickstep Imperio engineered wood, laid throughout the open-plan kitchen and living space.
Preparing the Subfloor Properly is Essential
Before installing the floor, we carried out extensive subfloor preparation. The underfloor heating system was already in place, and an anhydrite self-leveling screed had been pumped in to cover the pipework. As this type of screed cures, it produces a chalky top layer called laitance. Although this crust appears hard, it’s weak and unsuitable for bonding flooring.
To create a solid base, we removed the laitance using our diamond grinding machine. The attached dust extraction unit allowed us to complete the work with minimal mess and disruption.
Installing a Floor over Underfloor Heating: Why Expertise Matters
When installing a wooden floor over underfloor heating, following best practices is vital to avoid future issues:
- The engineered wood must acclimatise for at least 24 hours before opening the packs.
- The heating system should be fully commissioned and running before installation. It then needs to be turned off 48 hours beforehand and only gradually brought back up to temperature afterwards.
- An expansion gap around the entire perimeter allows the wood to expand and contract naturally.
- A strong bond to the subfloor is crucial. We applied Mapei Turbo polyurethane primer followed by Mapei Ultrabond 2K, a two-part epoxy PU adhesive, for a full bond.
Engineered Floor fitting in Devon
Quickstep Imperio engineered wood was used in the open plan living space to this beautifully converted barn. It was then all given a final finishing coat of oil to bring back the natural warmth of the wood whilst also adding extra protection.
Wooden Herringbone Floor fitting a speciality
We also installed an attractive herringbone oak floor to their studio. An unfinished oak flooring was used, and after it was laid we sanded it back and finished it with multiple layers of hard wax protective oil.
