Best Insulation For Radiant Floor Heating

Slabs that include embedded hydronic tubing for radiant heat always need a continuous layer of horizontal insulation under the entire slab.

Best insulation for radiant floor heating. The best way to control heat loss from radiant floor heating systems is to install thermal insulation below the electric heating cables or the hydronic heating pipes. Different insulation types help to minimize heat loss from convection air circulation conduction direct contact or radiation energy waves modes of. The compacted aggregate base is first followed by a 6 mil polyethylene vapor barrier then insulation then rebar or wire mesh or both. Need insulation for under concrete slabs slabs with radiant heat.

The best bang buck is usually a combination of rigid foam trapped to the foundation with a fiber insulated studwall. Radiant heat insulation is installed to prevent heat loss from a pex radiant floor heating system most commonly pex embedded in concrete slab or stapled underneath the plywood subfloor. Prodex exhibits less than 9 compression in thickness when subjected to loads associated with standard concrete floor systems. A continuous layer of horizontal insulation reduces heat loss in the winter and it reduces condensation of humid air on the slab during the summer.

Mainly heated slabs radiate outward rather than downward so insulation on the edges of the slab is most important. When installing your in floor heating you may want to install a layer of radiant floor insulation. This slab insulation is 0 2 inch 5mm closed cell polyethylene foam covered on one side with reinforced foil facing. Insulationstop is the best source for top quality products at the best price.

Adding radiant floor heating insulation is the most cost effective approach long term. This way most of the heat is then directed towards the room greatly increasing energy efficiency. An inch or so of foam under the bottom plate of the studwall as a thermal capillary break is recommended it s not structural it s just holding up the insulation wallboard. The reflectix concrete slab insulation is an innovative easy to handle product that increases the energy efficiency of radiant floor and snow melt systems under concrete.

The foil within the product acts to spread out the heat signature of the heating coils. Use radiant floor insulation. This insulation is placed below the hot water tubing or electric.