Radiant Floors

Efficient, clean radiant floors can save money

Radiant heating systems can make your home more comfortable, clean, and quiet and often lower your energy costs, too. Electric and hydronic systems are available today that can meet any owner's home improvement goals. The question is, which system is best for your home?

Radiant heating is available in either hydronic or electric systems. The hydronic systems are best suited for new construction or major remodeling projects because they entail incorporating some type of water heating system to drive the water through tubing embedding in the subfloor. Though an efficient system for heating your home, it is fairly costly. Electric systems may be as simple as installing a low-voltage, insulated mat under a new carpet and pad or under a new tile floor in a bathroom.

Most radiant heating projects are beyond the skills of all but the most experienced do-it-yourselfers, so finding a qualified contractor could be challenging. However. someone experienced with evaluating such systems could save you considerable time and expense by helping you select the best configuration for your home.

Before starting, obtain copies of your contractor's licensing and insurance. Check references and read the contract carefully. Take the time to do a little extra research to make sure that what you are getting is actually what you need. You'll find the time well spent in the long run.