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Among all existing floor coverings, laminate stands out advantageously.
It is quite elastic, plastic and wear-resistant, and in appearance it practically does not differ from natural wood.
Combining an impressive list of functional advantages and affordable cost, this coating is ideal for all types of premises, including frame houses.
And in order for warmth and comfort to reign in the frame house even in the most frosty winter, it is important to choose the optimally suitable system and mount it correctly. And how the installation is carried out, and will be discussed in this article.
Laminate itself belongs to the warm types of flooring, however, this is not enough for the cold season.
Therefore, to ensure the most comfortable level of temperature in the room, it is advisable to install a warm floor under the laminate.
This option has its undeniable advantages over traditional radiator heating due to the uniform distribution of warm air and the creation of a comfortable microclimate.
There are two types of floor heating - water and electric. Having carefully familiarized yourself with their inherent features, you can easily choose the appropriate option in each individual case. The quality of the laminate itself also plays an important role here. Therefore, before starting installation, you should figure out whether all types of this flooring are compatible with underfloor heating systems, and what to look for when choosing them.
Choosing a high-quality and reliable laminate, first of all, you should focus on indicators of its strength. A suitable option would be a laminate belonging to the wear resistance class 31 or 32, in which the thickness of the panels reaches 8-10 mm.
Important: you need to carefully study the labeling of the coating. If there are labels “Underfloor heating” or “Warm Wasser” on it, then such a laminate is suitable for laying on a warm floor. And the presence on the marking of the chemical formula of water (H2O) indicates that such a laminate is exclusively for water-heated floor systems.
An important factor is the type of fastening of the laminate. For the arrangement of underfloor heating, it is advisable to choose options equipped with Click type connections. And Lock connections in this case are absolutely not suitable.
Kinds
Both heating systems are suitable for arranging a warm laminate floor - water and electric. Of course, subject to the selection of high quality materials and competent performance of all stages of work.
It is also important to take into account all the nuances inherent in both systems. In water systems, heating is carried out using a heat carrier that circulates through pipes. And for electric, laying of heating elements that radiate heat is required.
The first option is mounted following the example of a water floor, and the second is more easy to install.
Pie
An electric type warm floor device involves laying several layers in a certain sequence:
- foil isol substrate (shiny surface up);
- temperature sensor;
- heating cables or film heater;
- waterproofing made of dense polyethylene;
- laminate and plinth.
materials
For proper installation of an electric underfloor heating, you will need:
- film heater or heating cables;
- thermostat - the simplest electromechanical or programmable digital;
- temperature sensor placed directly under the heating elements;
- foil backing;
- polyethylene.
Installation
Installation of a warm floor under a cable laminate and type differs from each other. Let's consider both options.
In the first case, a reliable single-core or two-core cable is used, which should be laid from the point of connection to the mains.
Installation work consists of several stages:
- At the very beginning, the surface of the subfloor is ideally leveled.
- A heat-insulating film and a special metal mesh are laid on it.
- A heating cable is carefully attached to the grid, the ends of which are brought out for connection to the electrical network.
- Screed is in progress.
- Laminate flooring is being installed.
The process of installing an electric underfloor heating from an infrared film is much simpler and faster. To do this, you must perform the necessary calculations and, in accordance with them, purchase a finished infrared film:
- First of all, a heat-reflecting substrate made of foil material is laid on the subfloor.
- A film warm floor is laid on top of it.
- The underlay for the laminate is placed and the laminate itself is installed.
Another system of warm electric floors involves the use of special ones. The basis in this case is prepared in the same way., as for the infrared film heater:
- A cable mat is rolled out from the wall with a thermostat.
- The mat is checked using a special tester.
- The temperature sensor is installed.
- The mat is fixed to the floor.
- A test run is in progress.
- If everything is in order, you can start laying the laminate.
The most reasonable option for arranging a warm floor, followed by laying a laminate, is an electric, in particular infrared film floor heating. Due to the fact that the principle of its operation lies in radiation in the infrared range, as a result, the surfaces of surrounding objects are heated, and not air convection upwards. Therefore, the infrared floor has proven itself as a heating base for laminate flooring.
Laminate is a moisture-resistant, mechanical damage-resistant material with a reasonable price / quality ratio. Laminate flooring consists of 90% shredded wood bonded with various adhesives.
Laying an electric underfloor heating under a laminate is doubtful for many. After all, wood is characterized by the ability to dry out at high temperatures, crack when it drops, and formaldehyde, which is part of the laminate board as a binder, begins to release intensively.
Film infrared underfloor heating under the laminate - advantages
- uniform thermal radiation - makes it possible to heat the laminate over the entire surface;
- economical energy consumption. Allows you to save up to 30% of funds compared to other floor heating systems;
- there is no risk of damage to the integrity of the laminated coating, because there is no need to heat the system to high temperatures. Thanks to the use of infrared radiation, in the first place, objects in the room are heated, and not the air;
- no need to perform "wet" work. Laying laminate does not require pouring the screed;
- the ability to use any type of substrate;
- availability. In large trade pavilions there are demonstration models where you can visually (visually and tactilely) evaluate the operation of the system (available in large cities of Moscow, St. Petersburg, etc.) or order it in an online store based on technical specifications and owner reviews.
Laminate for underfloor heating film - which one is better to choose
Despite the fact that manufacturers and craftsmen recommend laying a film underfloor heating under a laminate, you should not discount the features of the laminate itself.
In particular, when choosing a laminate for infrared floor heating, you need to pay attention to several factors:
- laminate marking. Most manufacturers quickly reacted to changing market trends and included in their range a laminate designed specifically for installation on underfloor heating. Whether it is possible to use a laminate for a warm floor will be indicated on the package (corresponding icon on the label). Moreover, some manufacturers indicate the maximum heating temperature;
Note. The maximum temperature to which a laminate floor can be heated is 27°C.
- structure (density) of the laminate. The ability of the lamellas to conduct heat depends on how “loose” the floor structure is. The denser the laminate, the higher its thermal resistance index. In practice, this means that the underfloor heating system will heat the lamellas, and not the surfaces of surrounding objects;
- laminate thickness. Ceteris paribus, the thicker the lamella, the slower it will transmit heat;
- formaldehyde content. This component is part of the MDF, which serves as the basis for the laminate board. At a temperature of 20-26 ° C, the release of formaldehyde occurs in the normal mode. Those. according to this indicator, most of the sexes belong to class E1. However, when the lamellas are heated, the release of formaldehyde is activated, so you need to pay attention to this indicator. It should also be taken into account that intensive release of formaldehyde begins when heated above 27 °C;
- laminate cost. Many reviews contain complaints not about the operation of the underfloor heating system, but about the need to lay the laminate again due to attempts to save on material;
- substrate. Laminate installation technology involves the use of a substrate. The installation of the substrate will allow leveling the pressure on the interlock of the strips from moving along the lamellas. In view of the fact that the substrate does not lay under the floor film, but on it, the choice of the film must also be approached responsibly.
What substrate can be used for laying on a warm film floor
- technical traffic jam;
- liquid composite system;
- extruded polystyrene foam;
- polystyrene backing;
- reflective material.
Note. It is unacceptable to use foil material as a substrate (aluminum foil, pnofol).
Do-it-yourself installation of an infrared film underfloor heating under a laminate
Laying technology involves the implementation of several successive steps.
Note. For autonomous heating (the main source of heating), it is necessary to install a film floor on 70% of the area of \u200b\u200bthe room. With an additional - by 40%. At the same time, it is taken into account that the film does not fit under furniture, heavy and low objects in order to exclude its overheating.
Note. When laying the infrared underfloor heating system over a basement, ground or garage, a waterproofing film should be laid on the prepared base.
Note. The sensor wire can be laid on top of the insulation, or you can cut holes in its thickness and place the sensor wire in the corrugation. So, if necessary, you can repair the wire or sensor.
Note. The number of thermostats depends on the power of the system. If the system is being installed on a large area, it is reasonable to use several thermostats.
Installation of infrared film underfloor heating under laminate - video
In order for the process of starting the infrared floor heating system to run smoothly, it is recommended to gradually increase the floor temperature (by 3-4 ° C per day) to the set value.
Rules for installing underfloor heating under laminate
Laminate is considered a fairly popular coating that is used for residential premises. This is due to the fact that it is characterized by low cost, practicality and high aesthetic qualities. But can it be used for underfloor heating? After all, this material is made of wood. High temperature can not only destroy it, but also cause the release of substances harmful to the body.
The main components of laminate flooring
The installation of the laminate takes place according to a ready-made heating design. Before this, the base is covered with a thin substrate 2-3 mm thick to soundproof the floor covering. In order not to reduce the quality of heating, use perforated material.
In this case, thermal energy will be able to penetrate through the holes in the substrate. When laying infrared film, polyethylene is additionally used to heat the floor covering. It is laid directly on the finished base under the decorative cladding.
After that, the entire laminate is laid alternately. The connection of individual elements is carried out using Click or Lock locks.
Video: Do-it-yourself installation of a film underfloor heating under a laminate
How to lay a film underfloor heating under a laminate
Every diligent owner strives to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in his home. A well-organized room heating system will make this task much easier, so before the onset of cold weather, you should take care of warming all surfaces in the house, including the floor. Film underfloor heating under the laminate will be the ideal solution to create the optimal microclimate in the apartment without spending a lot of time and effort.
In this material with a photo, we will talk about the methods, varieties and rules of laying that must be observed if you decide to arrange underfloor heating under the laminate.
Ways of laying film underfloor heating
As a rule, when laying a warm floor with power supply, three methods of their location are used:
If the floor screed is in perfect condition, you can install a warm floor under a laminate or linoleum directly on it, which will significantly save time for additional work. When laying a cable electric floor in the kitchen, bathroom or loggia, the heating elements are hidden in the thickness of the screed, having previously laid a thermally insulating layer.
In the case of laying underfloor heating in two-story houses, where floor insulation on the ground floor is completed, additional screed and thermal insulation are not required. Ceramic tiles laid on top and a thick layer of glue will serve as protection for the warm floor. True, you should first check the instructions for it.
Varieties and advantages of film infrared floors
Infrared film underfloor heating is becoming more and more popular among buyers, since their radiation is not detrimental to delicate wood coverings such as laminate, parquet or parquet board.
There are the following types of film infrared floor:
The latter is quite often used not only for floor insulation, but also for walls. It is easy and convenient to work with such material, since it is elastic and has small dimensions (585x545 mm). See also: "Infrared film for underfloor heating - the principle of operation and installation scheme".
Let's name a number of undoubted advantages of an infrared film floor:
- speed and convenience of laying - it will take about 2 hours before laying the warm floor under the laminate is completed;
- the height of the room will not decrease due to an increase in the level of the floor, because the thickness of the film is only 3 mm;
- film underfloor heating has a high level of reliability;
- no need for additional work on pouring the screed, since the film infrared heat-insulated floor can be laid directly under the laminate, linoleum or carpet (read: “How to lay the infrared heat-insulated floor under linoleum“);
- does not dry the air in the room, so the humidity of the air from heating does not change;
- has an anti-allergic effect on the human body;
- economically consumes electricity - 20% less than other types of underfloor heating;
- can be dismantled and moved to a new place of residence;
- has the effect of air ionization.
What you need when installing film underfloor heating
The complete set of the infrared floor assumes the presence of a thermal film rolled into a roll, insulating material, contact clamps and wiring for them. Additionally, you need to purchase a temperature sensor and a thermostat.
A number of additional materials will serve to increase the life of the floor and improve its thermal qualities.
Requirements for the basis for a warm film floor under a laminate
Before laying a warm floor under a laminate, it is necessary to carefully prepare the base for it. If laying on an old floor is planned, it is important to make sure that it is suitable for further use, does not contain depressions or irregularities, and is able to withstand the load after laying the finishing floor.
The base should be cleaned, check for level differences - their value should not exceed a film thickness of 3 mm. Irregularities found must be eliminated, and then thoroughly dry the surface. After that, the laying of the film underfloor heating under the laminate can be performed.
When placing the film on the floor surface, it is worth remembering that heating the space under the furniture is impractical and harmful to the furniture. However, if a rearrangement of furniture is planned in the near future, it is possible to cover the entire space of the room with a warm floor.
When planning the laying of a warm floor, you need to calculate the power consumption required for a specific area of \u200b\u200bthe room. These values increase in direct proportion. You can get the necessary advice to calculate the optimal power and operating efficiency of a warm floor when buying a film floor.
Laying insulation materials
The next important step in the process of laying underfloor heating under laminate flooring is laying insulating materials to prevent the underfloor heating from coming into contact with moisture.
After that, thermal insulation can be laid to increase the efficiency of the underfloor heating and reduce heat loss from heat flows directed downward.
Any rolled material laid with the metallized side up, the seams of which should be glued with adhesive tape, will do.
Before laying a warm floor under the laminate, it is best to use foamed insulation materials, no thinner than 3 mm thick.
Both reflective and non-reflective insulating materials are equally well suited as insulation under a laminate, as long as the thickness standards are met. The lavsan reflective film shows itself well, but the foil material is not entirely suitable for the infrared film floor, so it is undesirable to lay it.
Metallized adhesive tape will optimally cope with the task of sealing the seams between the insulation sheets.
Choosing a place and preparing for the installation of a thermostat
A thermostat is used to control the temperature of the underfloor heating.
The main functions of the thermostat are:
- setting the desired temperature level;
- setting of heating periods;
- turning on and off the underfloor heating within the established programs in automatic mode.
Before laying a warm floor under the laminate, you need to decide on the location of the thermostat, since it affects the layout of the film and the wiring. As a rule, it is located 20 cm from the floor level.
Method of laying heating elements
To know how to install a warm floor under a laminate, you should refer to the developed scheme when placing the film.
Infrared film floor heating may not cover the entire area of the room, which depends on its purpose and intensity of use (read: “How to lay infrared floor heating under a laminate - installation instructions“).
The film can be laid:
- On half of the total area of the room, if other sources of heating are provided, and the warm floor serves as additional support. At the same time, a power of 90-150 W / m 2 is sufficient.
- On 70-80% of the total area, if it is the only heating device. The power of the floor in this case increases to 150 W / m 2.
The distance from the edge of the film to walls or furniture should be at least 20 cm, and to heaters - at least 1 meter. This is done to avoid overheating the floor and its failure.
In order to most conveniently and effectively place the film on the floor surface, it can be cut at light marks. In this case, the maximum length of the strip cannot exceed 8 m.
Please note that overlapping film sections is strictly prohibited.
If the film is single-sided, it is placed with the reinforced side down, and if it is double-sided, the side does not matter. The film installation direction should be towards the thermostat to minimize wiring costs. You need to lay the film with copper contacts down, to which clamps are subsequently attached to connect the wiring. See also: "How to make underfloor heating under the laminate - step by step guide".
Slice isolation
Sections containing exposed copper areas need additional insulation. Often, bituminous insulation is used for these purposes. To glue the bare areas on both sides, it is necessary to cut off large pieces of the film.
Then holes are cut in the film, where the glued copper sections are pressed in and the sections are closed with adhesive tape. It is possible to start insulating the points of connection of contacts with clamps and wiring only after they have been installed. To attach the clip, it must be placed between the film and the copper strip, and then pressed with pliers.
Laying and checking the wiring
Wire connection
Laying the wiring of the underfloor heating film must be carried out from the center to the skirting boards on the walls in order to avoid excessive pressure of the floor covering. The wires are laid under the film, in which holes are pre-cut for them. After fixing the incision site, they are fastened with adhesive tape. The layout of the wiring must be done so that it does not protrude beyond the thermal insulating substrate.
Connecting the cable to the terminals is carried out in parallel. The ends of the wires are stripped, pushed through a notch in the film and inserted into the attachment points of the clamp, after which they are pressed with pliers. The junction is isolated and fixed to the film with adhesive tape. In order not to mix up the wiring lines, you can choose a cable of two colors.
Thermostat connection
After laying the thermal film, it is necessary to attach a temperature sensor to it. It is usually located in the area of the second section. Under its wiring and the sensor itself, cuts are made in the film. In addition, it is worth making sure that the film makes a smooth turn at the place where the cable passes under the temperature sensor. This will prevent the cable from breaking.
Once the sensor is installed, you can proceed with the installation of the thermostat. It is preferable when it is connected permanently, however, it is also possible to connect it through a socket.
Connect the thermostat to the film infrared heat-insulated floor in the same way as other types of underfloor heating. Two wires each, suitable for the temperature sensor and the underfloor heating, are connected in pairs on both sides of the thermostat. The two remaining free connectors are used to connect power cables. Grounding is connected using a terminal.
System check
Before laying laminate flooring, make sure that the underfloor heating is functioning properly. If there is no overheating of individual elements or sparking, then the thermal film is of high quality.
As soon as it is established that there are no malfunctions, it is necessary to cover the heating elements with a layer of protective polyethylene, no thicker than 80 microns, designed to prevent moisture from entering the thermal film. In addition, such a layer will increase the service life of the warm floor. Lay a plastic film overlap over the entire surface of the warm floor.
Laminate installation
For laying on underfloor heating, a laminate with a special marking should be used, and during installation it will be useful to be careful not to damage the thermal film. See also: "Which laminate is better for underfloor heating - choose the best material".
Assembling a laminate can be quite simple. Each of the panels is equipped with a locking mechanism, so it is enough to place them at an angle and connect, then lower the panel until it clicks. If there are small gaps, you can tap the panels with a rubber mallet. First, the panels are fastened together by narrow edges, and then the strips are connected to each other.
When laying laminate flooring, it is important to leave gaps against the walls to allow expansion of the coating with temperature changes. Upon completion of this process, skirting boards are installed around the perimeter of the room, in which the underfloor heating wiring is hidden.
The heating film must be given time to warm up to room temperature, after which it can be turned on.
It is desirable to carry out work on laying a film underfloor heating at a relative humidity of not more than 60% and positive temperature.
It is imperative to make sure that the contacts and cut points of the thermal film are insulated before connecting it to the power supply. In no case should the heating film be connected to the network if it is in a rolled state.
If the graphite coating on the thermal film is damaged, the hole must be insulated on both sides.
It is forbidden to install a film underfloor heating under a laminate on a damp surface. If water gets on the warm floor due to flooding, it must be immediately disconnected from the network, and then left to dry completely in natural conditions.
Do not step in shoes on the laid thermal film.
The temperature sensor must be installed freely so that it can be easily replaced in the event of a malfunction.
Laminate floors are becoming more and more popular. This is due to their affordable price, relatively simple and quick installation, aesthetic appearance, good performance, durability. But they also have a significant drawback. Although the material is decorated to look like natural wood, it is by no means as warm as real wood. If you lay it on a concrete floor without adequate insulation, it will quickly transfer the cold of such a base. The best solution to this problem is to lay an infrared warm floor under the laminate.
Infrared underfloor heating under laminate
The installation process of this type of underfloor heating, although it has a number of significant subtleties, is still not excessively laborious, and is quite feasible for independent implementation.
The heat-conducting qualities of the laminate just require the installation of a heating system under it. But why exactly the infrared floor becomes the optimal solution, because there are water circuits and electrical circuits and the use of heating cables or heating mats? Let's figure it out...
- A water floor under a laminate will be appropriate only with an autonomous heating system, when it will be possible to independently fine-tune the temperature of the coolant. The fact is that the laminate is quite "capricious" in the sense of thermal drops - they can cause its deformation, the appearance of cracks, squeaks, etc. In addition, the installation of a water floor is a mandatory screed over it, and this will significantly raise the surface level, which is far from always possible.
- A resistive electric floor (cable or heating mats) is also undesirable for laminate. Partly, for the same reason - the need for a screed over the installed floor, and partly due to the rather uneven heating of the surface.
All these shortcomings are deprived of a film infrared floor. Its thickness is less than 1 mm, it does not need screeds with their labor intensity, and its installation practically does not thicken the overall coating. Heating occurs due to infrared radiation with a wavelength of 5 to 20 microns, invisible to the eye, but effectively heating all objects in its path - a direct analogy with sunlight.
What other advantages are inherent in this type of underfloor heating:
- The most comfortable temperature distribution in the room is created by heating the surface of objects.
- This principle of heat transfer is the most efficient and economical - the cost of electricity consumption is lower by about 30% compared to resistive electric heaters.
- The film itself is heated to low temperatures - about 30 - 40ºС, which does not adversely affect the integrity of the laminate surface.
- The high density of radiating strips provides excellent uniformity of heating over the area.
- Heating starts almost instantly.
- The system is easy to mount, dismantle and reinstall. Its service life is calculated in decades - it is extremely reliable.
- Such a heating system absolutely does not dry the air, and, according to many medical experts, it has an anti-allergic effect due to air ionization and the removal of unpleasant odors.
The only significant drawback of the infrared floor is considered to be a rather high price when buying it, but it will definitely be justified in just a couple of years of operation.
How the film infrared floor works
The main element of the system of warm infrared floor are film heaters. Between two sheets of transparent polyester film, parallel, often spaced, strips of carbon paste are hermetically sealed, which, when voltage is applied to it, becomes an IR energy emitter. Each of these strips "relies" on both sides on a copper conductor-bus with silver-plated contacts for connection to the power supply. Parallel connection of both radiating strips and the film elements themselves ensures high reliability of the system - even if any element fails, the overall performance of the infrared floor will not be affected.
Heating infrared films have a standard width of 50 cm or 1 m. They are sold in different lengths - the choice is made based on the size of the room. It is provided for cutting the films along the length - every 25.7 cm there is a line of a possible cut - both are necessarily indicated by an advising symbol. Cutting films in other places is not allowed.
The specific power of film heaters is 150, 220 or, much less often, 440 W / m². It is important to know this in the general calculation of a warm floor in order to provide for the total load on the power grid. For heating under laminate, heaters with a power of 150 W / m² are usually used - this gives a maximum heating of up to 40-45º, and higher temperatures for laminate are not recommended.
The set of underfloor heating also includes a temperature sensor with a cable - for monitoring temperature parameters, a set of wires for switching, clip-on terminals for connecting a film element, insulating materials. For each room you will need to purchase thermostat unit, which will be placed on the wall in a convenient place for the owner. Power is supplied to it, and the wiring that supplies voltage directly to the heating elements leaves from here.
Installation of a warm infrared floor under the laminate
Drawing up an installation diagram
Before undertaking the installation process itself, it is necessary to carefully calculate and plan the entire structural diagram of the future system.
- Should immediately be considered location control element, thermostat - it is to him that all the wires will converge. The cable part can be hidden in a strobe in the wall, enclosing it in a corrugated pipe, or let it run over the surface, covering it with a plastic box.
- You will need to draw a graphic diagram of the location of heating film elements on the floor, taking into account all the required nuances:
- The cutting of the film can only be carried out along the cut lines provided by the manufacturer and marked.
- To minimize the number of contact connections, it is recommended to lay out the film along the room.
- The distance from the walls, stationary heating devices must be at least 25 ÷ 30 cm.
- It is not planned to place elements under pieces of furniture - this will cause them to overheat, waste energy and, in the worst case, burn out.
- The distance between adjacent parallel film elements is 5 cm. Their overlaps, intersections, etc. are not allowed.
- Covering with film elements up to 40 ÷ 60% of the floor area is considered normal.
- On the graphic diagram, the wiring diagram is necessarily drawn. There can be two approaches here. Cables can be connected on one side of the film elements:
Sometimes, in order to exclude the intersection of the "phase" and "neutral" wires, they will be connected from opposite sides films . This will require special care during installation - in order to accidentally prevent a short circuit by mistake:
- The location of the temperature sensor is provided - it should be located in the middle of the film element, preferably in the coldest part of the room, but in such a way that its regular cable is enough to connect to the thermostat unit.
If the circuit is ready, carefully thought out and tested, you can proceed to installation.
Foundation preparation
In this publication, attention is focused on the installation of infrared film underfloor heating, so we will proceed from the fact that the concrete base itself is already pre-prepared for the future laying of the laminate. It was given the required evenness, horizontality, the necessary repairs of “weak” places were carried out, treatment was carried out with impregnating reinforcing and dedusting formulations.
- Work begins with a thorough cleaning of the base - all possible debris is removed, the surface is thoroughly vacuumed.
- In order not to waste electricity when heating a concrete screed, flooring is required thermal reflective foil material. Its minimum thickness is 2 ÷ 3 mm.
- The flooring of the thermal reflector is always made with the foil part outward. The strips are attached to the base of the floor with double-sided adhesive tape, stacked end-to-end and interconnected with a special adhesive tape.
- The thickness of the material will make it possible to cut recesses for wires, terminals, and a temperature sensor in it - so that after installing the underfloor heating they do not rise above the general level of the film coating and thus do not interfere with the normal laying of the laminate.
Installation of film infrared elements After complete switching of all cables and a thorough check of its correctness, a test run can be carried out. If everything is functioning correctly, move on to laminate flooring.
Between the film underfloor heating and the laminate, a layer of waterproofing material is necessarily stretched - an ordinary dense polyethylene film or a standard substrate for a laminate that can come with it. The film sheets are overlapped, with an overlap of 15 ÷ 20 cm, glued together with adhesive tape. Such a measure will protect the operation of the floor in case of unforeseen circumstances - for example, an abundant spill of water on the surface of the laminate.
Laminate installation is carried out in accordance with the technology established for a particular model. These issues are discussed in detail in the relevant sections of the site.
After the installation of the laminated coating is completed, you can turn on the heating system, set the optimum temperature - about 25 ÷ 28ºС, and enjoy the comfort of the warm floor.
Video - Installation of infrared floor heating under the laminate
Video - How to make an infrared floor under a laminate in 1 hour
The heated electric floor creates a unique comfortable atmosphere in any room of your home. It can be used in various types of rooms, such as bathrooms or children's rooms. In addition, the heated electric floor can be covered with any type of floor finish, for example, laminate, which is extremely popular in our country.
A warm floor under a laminate is very suitable, for example, for a children's room. Your child will be able to play on the floor all year round without the need for additional mats or mats.
The heated floor under the laminate, mounted in the bedroom, will allow you to start your day with the most pleasant sensations, meeting the morning with a feeling of gentle warmth under your bare feet.
You can easily install a heated floor under a laminate with your own hands, without involving master builders. Consider the algorithm for its installation.
Necessary tools and materials:
For installation we need:
In the box you will find an instruction manual, a roll of heated electric floor, electrical connection cables, and a bitumen insulation kit to protect the terminals.
You also need to purchase an additional thermostat
Thermostat - photo
Heat reflective film for heated floors. It can be distinguished by its characteristic foil layer.
heat-reflecting film for a heated floor - photo
Also stock up on a polyethylene-based film or laminate underlay that is compatible with heated floors, tape, a mounting knife, pliers, and a screwdriver.
We carry out preparatory work
We calculate the surface area of the floor, the part on which we will lay the heating film. Do not place the film under low-standing stationary pieces of furniture.
You can draw up a drawing of your future warm floor on graph paper.
Get ahead of where the thermostat of your warm floor will be located.
Laying heat reflective material
To increase the level of thermal insulation of your premises, we place heat-reflecting material on the floor.
We fix the heat-reflecting material with a stapler or metallized tape.
In any case, the strips of heat-reflecting material must also be fastened together with adhesive tape.
This is how the floor surface looks like, covered with heat-reflecting material, fastened with adhesive tape.
Laying electric underfloor heating
We spread the thermal film according to the developed laying scheme. Please note that the copper strip on the thermal film must be at the bottom.
If necessary, cut off pieces of thermal film in the places indicated by the manufacturer.
We place the cut sheets according to the developed layout scheme.
Photo - placement of underfloor heating elements
We connect the insulation
Now the sheets of thermal film laid out on the floor must be connected to electrical cables and the electrical contacts should be insulated.
The insulation of the contacts of the heated electric underfloor heating is a special bituminous sticker, divided into two parts.
We isolate with a bitumen sticker the places where you cut the copper bus.
Contact isolation - photo
Please note that the applied insulation must, along the entire length of the cut, cover the copper surface and the contacts leading to the dark material elements on the heated - electric floor.
We place the contacts in the places where you want to connect the power wires in the future.
We arrange the contact so that one of its sides is inside the heating film layer. The second side of the contact should be located on top of the copper foil strip.
Using pliers, we tightly clamp the contact, ensuring its secure fixation.
We fix the layers of the heated electric floor between each other with tape, we also attach the strips to the heat-reflecting material. We exclude the possibility of shifting layers.
We put the stripped end of the electrical cable into the corresponding contact hole.
We fix the wires in the contact hole with the help of pliers.
We fix all the places where the wiring is connected to the heated electric floor using bitumen stickers.
Connecting the temperature controller
With the help of a thermostat, we can significantly save the energy consumed by your underfloor heating by turning it on only at the time and at the temperature you need.
Your heated electric floor usually comes with a temperature sensor. Install it under the film on the black heating element.
Fix the sensor on the film with a bitumen insulating sticker.
To ensure that the temperature sensor does not disturb the surface of the final floor covering, make a cutout under it in a layer of heat-reflecting material.
Also, in order to ensure the evenness of the laminate, we make cutouts in the layer of heat-reflecting material, under the contacts and wires.
Cutouts in the insulating layer can also be made for bundles of wires.
The wires placed in the recesses must be fixed with adhesive tape.
We install the mounting panel of the temperature controller on the wall in the chosen place.
According to the connection diagram indicated on the thermostat, we fix the connecting wires.
We connect the wires - photo
For high power underfloor heating systems, it is recommended that the thermostat be connected to the wiring via a separate circuit breaker.
Functional check and testing of the heated floor system.
We turn on the thermostat of the heated floor system.
We check the heating of each strip of the laid warm electric floor.
We carefully check the joints. They must not spark or become excessively hot.
We deploy polyethylene film on the floor surface. You can replace it with any laminate underlay that is approved for use with heated floors.
Proceed with laying the final floor covering - for example, a laminate board.
When assembling laminate boards, be very careful not to damage the installed heated electric floor.
Video - warm electric floor under the laminate
Now many people choose laminate flooring as it is quite beautiful, durable and easy to install. But this coating has several drawbacks, one of which is that it is very cold. That is why the perfect solution to this problem is to install an infrared floor heating under the laminate.
What is an infrared floor?
Infrared floor heating, in fact, is a method of surface heating, which is carried out by raising the temperature of the heating elements with electricity. The infrared heater has special conductive strips that allow the passage of electricity and heat the surface. Electricity is supplied through the wiring and evenly heats the floor. It is this system that makes complete tightness of the infrared floor and its resistance to high humidity.
This design has a thermostat. With it, you can independently change the temperature in the room and in its individual zones. Infrared warm floor is completely harmless to human health. It emits only negatively charged ions, thereby even having a positive effect.
Another feature of this floor is that it warms the entire room. This is due to the fact that a heat-reflecting lining is installed under it, which gradually heats the objects located on top. In this way, this device will heat the floor, not the ceiling of the neighbors if it is installed in the apartment. The infrared floor does not warm the air, so warming up is gradual and correct.
This design is perfect as a base for laying laminate, precisely because it provides a uniform heating of the surface, which is gentle for this coating. In addition, such a system of underfloor heating is economical, allowing you to reduce the cost of electricity for such heating by 20%.
Laminate is an excellent flooring for underfloor heating because it is quite thin and uniform. Thus, the heat is correctly distributed over the entire area of the room. The warm floor does not concentrate the radiation inside the laminate, but passes it through. Underfloor heating under the laminate allows you to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room and makes moving around the house barefoot more enjoyable. Such a heating system provides owners the ability to independently control the comfortable temperature regime in any room. In addition, laminate is perfect for such a heat source, so the infrared floor heating system is indispensable in modern conditions.
Basically, these floors work from film heaters. They are transparent polyester sheets, between which there are parallel strips of carbon paste. When exposed to voltage, it emits infrared energy. The average width of such films is either 50 cm or 100 cm. The length may depend on the size of the room, the film can be easily cut along the cutting line. In other parts, trimming of coatings is prohibited.
Under the laminate, floors are most often used, the heating power of which is 150 W per square meter. Thus, the heating will not exceed 40 degrees, this level will be acceptable for the laminate. The warm floor of the infrared type has a special sensor with a cable connected to it, which allows you to control the temperature regime.
Types, their advantages and disadvantages
Now manufacturers present two main systems of infrared floors. Distinguish:
- film;
- rod.
The first option is a model of thin film rolls with heating elements in the form of strips. The second option is a set of carbon rods that are connected to each other with wires. The first type is very popular because it has a number of advantages, it is easy to mount. In this case, you do not have to carry out any additional or preparatory work. Anyone can cope with this task, even if they do not have the appropriate skills or experience in this field. Such a heating system can be installed on any floor, regardless of its texture, and you can not use a screed.
Another important advantage of infrared flooring is that it allows you to control the temperature in the room creating a feeling of comfort. In addition, temperature changes can occur quite quickly.
If you suddenly decide to turn on and heat the floor, then it will warm up in a matter of minutes, and the temperature in the room will rise noticeably. This is a clear advantage of infrared underfloor heating in comparison with other coatings.
An important advantage of this type of underfloor heating is that it does not harm the finishing floor coverings. That is why this type of heating system is most often used in combination with a laminate. A big plus is the very principle of operation of the heating system. It does not warm the air and does not allow it to rise up. The system evenly distributes warm currents, and thus, the air temperature below will be much higher than at the top.
Infrared radiation is a completely safe and even useful phenomenon. It does not affect the level of humidity in the air, does not dry it out and makes being indoors more comfortable. In addition, many experts point out that infrared floors have a therapeutic effect and can prevent a number of diseases. Thus, they do not harm at all, but, on the contrary, contribute to improving the conditions in the room.
The film infrared floor will allow you to optimally warm the room. This is one of the most economical heating methods. Such a heater significantly reduces energy consumption. In addition, it allows you to provide a comfortable level of heating for the legs. Even if any part of the system fails, you do not have to change the entire system. You can only replace a certain area and enjoy the warm floor.
Manufacturers guarantee a long service life of such heaters even if they work smoothly. These heating systems do not require special care, they are distinguished by their versatility, simplicity and functionality. That is why they are so widespread and are very popular among buyers. But such a heating system also has several disadvantages. The first of them is the high cost of the heating system.
Such a warm floor will not be affordable for everyone, especially if you purchase only high-quality proven heating models. Besides, with improper installation or some mechanical influences, such floors can be easily damaged and partially disable the system, and some heating elements will have to be replaced.
Also, many manufacturers warn: there is a possibility of fire underfloor heating film. That is why it is very important to take into account the operating requirements that manufacturers impose and carefully study all the instructions. Another disadvantage is that not everyone can correctly connect the necessary contacts, especially for models of the second type.
Some, especially very thin models, also require a flat surface for laying the floor, so you have to further level it and smooth out any defects. Another disadvantage is that energy savings can only be achieved if the floor warms the room up to at least 21 degrees. In addition, this additional heating can not replace the main one in any way.
Some call other shortcomings of the infrared floor. So, buyers complain that its installation and installation is not as easy as manufacturers say. Calculating the size of the film and correctly spreading it on the floor surface is quite easy, but connecting all the contacts is a very time-consuming and complicated process that only an electrician can handle.
Another disadvantage is the clear requirement for a perfectly even and smooth surface. This is because the film is in some cases very thin, so there is a possibility of contact withdrawal or damage.
If the film is deformed, the heating system will fail.
Also, many manufacturers claim that infrared floors do not dry the air. This statement is true only if they are used separately from the general heating system, but together both systems dry the air and lower the humidity level in the room. Although manufacturers often mention such benefits as air ionization and health benefits, this radiation can still lead to allergic reactions. Thus, the system is not hypoallergenic and may cause some problems.
During installation, it is important to pay attention to the air and floor temperature sensors: they must not be covered. Failure to comply with this requirement can lead to unpleasant consequences - the system will fail and will not work correctly.
How to choose?
When choosing warm infrared floors for laminate, make sure that the floor surface is perfectly flat, otherwise the system will not work. Preference should be given to the film infrared floor. This is due to the fact that the rod system creates certain difficulties during installation and requires a screed. It is not very well suited for laminate, but is acceptable.
Before choosing, you must and all measurements in the room and calculate how many rolls of film you need to buy. An infrared electric floor can be installed in any room, including on the balcony, the choice will depend only on the available area.
At the same time, it is important not only to choose the right floor system itself, since in some cases it is identical, but also a laminate for a film-type underfloor heating. You can buy a stable vinyl laminate. It is important to pay attention to the label.
The packaging should indicate that such a coating is suitable for installation on underfloor heating. A pack of laminate flooring must be marked accordingly, and some manufacturers even indicate the permissible heating temperature (the limit is 27 degrees). It is also important to consider the density of the laminate and its structure. It is better to give preference to models that have a looser structure, as they conduct heat better and warm the room well. A denser laminate, on the contrary, warms up for a very long time and practically does not give off heat.
When choosing, it is important to pay attention to the composition of the lamellae. So, if they are made using formaldehyde, which is typical for MDF models that are part of the laminate, then when heated, this component can release harmful substances. If such a laminate is heated to no more than 25 degrees, then the level of emissions is normal, but at higher temperatures their level increases. That is why it is better to give preference to class E1 laminate. It can be heated up to 27 degrees without fear that harmful substances will be released.
Also pay attention to the price of coverage. Many people seek to save on this material by purchasing cheaper lamellas, but in the case of underfloor heating, this is not right.
Cheap low-quality lamellas deteriorate quickly, and therefore the coating has to be re-laid. Thus, saving on it, you will later spend even more.
Pay more attention to the substrate. Its choice is extremely important when installing a warm floor. It can equalize the pressure on the locks connecting the slats and reduce the load on them when walking. The substrate must be laid on the underfloor heating film. It also allows you to provide heating uniformity. The film should also be chosen very responsibly and carefully. Only a certain underlay can be placed on the film floor. So, technical cork, extruded polystyrene foam, materials with reflective surfaces, liquid composite systems are perfect for this.
In no case do not purchase a foil substrate, since it is unacceptable for laminate and underfloor heating. It enhances the heating, increasing the allowable temperature level.
How to install with your own hands?
When installing an infrared floor with your own hands, you need to acquire some tools and follow a number of requirements. So, you will need:
- substrate with heat-reflecting functions;
- infrared film;
- temperature sensors;
- temperature controllers;
- wiring;
- fasteners - clamps for installing infrared cloths;
- insulators;
- polyethylene film that protects against moisture;
- insulating tape;
- knife, scissors;
- ruler;
- roulette;
- pencil.
In order to properly lay the laminate and make a warm floor, it is important to follow the technology and check all the components.
This heating system must be removed from other heat sources such as radiators, stoves, fireplaces and others. It is better if the distance is about half a meter. When installing, you should also take into account the location of the furniture in the room. It is better if the warm film is located only in those areas where furniture will not stand, it is important to calculate this in advance.
During installation, it is necessary to provide the ability to control the functioning of the underfloor heating, additional access to the system to troubleshoot problems when they occur. Laying the laminate is very important in this regard. It should provide the necessary ventilation for underfloor heating and the level of thermal conductivity. It is also necessary to take care about a perfectly even base of the floor and get rid of all bumps and cracks. In addition, you need to install sockets to connect the underfloor heating to the power supply.
After that, preparation and isolation can be carried out. Initially, you should clean the floor and remove all dirt and debris, even small specks can damage the film surface. To do this, it is better to use a vacuum cleaner. After that, you need to take measurements: room area excluding floor areas where furniture will be located. Be sure to calculate the material correctly.
In no case should the infrared film floor be spread overlay. It is better to leave a small distance with a lack of length or width of such floors than to impose one film on another. After that, you need to mount a special substrate that reflects heat. The underlay spreads over the entire floor area. It is much easier to shorten or cut.
Then it is necessary to glue all the joints of this protective substrate from the outside, cut the infrared film correctly, based on the measurements made. Moreover, it can be cut only in areas specially designated by the manufacturer. As a rule, they are marked with white frames. The film can be laid on the floor in the room around the entire perimeter if there is no large furniture standing directly on the floor.
If there is one, then it is better to bypass it. Then you need to insulate the tires. Copper busbars must be glued with electrical adhesive tape, while twisting along the cut. Try to carry out complete insulation without the possibility of air entry. After that, you need to process the ground bus. This is the element that is located in the center of each heating sheet.
It must be bent on both sides without deforming the remaining sections. To insulate the film in other areas, electrical adhesive tape must be used. It must be applied in such a way that the bend is on the wrong side. After that, you can isolate the film with tape. It is glued in half the width and folded over a cut of the infrared cloth. After insulating and laying, you can proceed to connecting thermostats and soldering all the wires.
So, it is better to align the film at the place of laying and fix the edge of the substrate with the side that will be opposite from the temperature regulator. Then it is necessary to solder the wires connecting different parts of the film infrared floor. Having unfolded the film in the part where the temperature controller is installed, it must be folded inside out. You can temporarily fix it in this position with adhesive tape.
Then, using a heated soldering iron or a clerical knife, you need to get rid of the insulation layer. You can also mark points to melt the insulation, and then clean the cuts with a knife. Thereafter it is important to make complete isolation. This can be done with electrical adhesive tape.
After that, proceed to the installation of the floor temperature sensor. This device must be installed under the film in special recesses. Thermal sensors are installed in the warmest place of the infrared floor, which is the central part of the film. In this way, overheating of the entire floor can be avoided. The temperature sensor has a wire to the thermostat. There it must be fixed with a special adhesive tape. Then you should strip the wires and connect them. After that, you need to connect the grounding tires, and it is important to strip them, cut and connect with a cable.
Outgoing wires should be placed in a corrugated pipe.
Then you need to fix the film. This can be done by securing it to the substrate using mounting tape. So you can make a flat surface and avoid overlapping different areas on top of each other. Next, you can proceed to testing the film infrared floor heating and laying the laminate. A polyethylene film is laid on top of the floors. It allows you to protect the infrared floor from moisture.
Laying the film should be overlapped on the walls, and The thickness of the polyethylene film must be at least 160 µm. Only then can you move on to laying the laminate, correctly fixing all the interlocks and providing the necessary ventilation during installation.
With self-assembly, you should also follow some rules. The temperature controller is best placed about 20 cm above the floor in an accessible area. Also keep in mind that when laying all the extreme film elements must have gaps near the walls. It is important not to press them tightly and retreat about 30 cm from each wall.
When decorating the interior in a room where such underfloor heating under a laminate is installed, in no case should carpets or other warm floor coverings be used. Thus, warm air will linger on the surface of the laminate and spoil its structure. The room will not be warm enough, but the coating will overheat.
In addition, if you lay a carpet where the temperature controller is installed, the power relay will constantly turn off, and all heating of the room as a whole will be completely ineffective.
