With any underfloor heating project, even with meticulous planning, it can be surprisingly easy to make mistakes during the installation phase. Paying attention to accurate measurements and following the correct steps during installation is crucial to avoiding costly errors that may arise later in the project. Follow along for our 5 most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1 – Supplying inaccurate Floor Plans and Drawings
When embarking on an underfloor heating project, comprehensive architectural floor plans aren’t always a necessity. However, precision in the provided measurements is crucial. Without these accurate measurements, the exact design and subsequent installation can’t be executed correctly. Mistakes in these measurements can result in incorrect material quantities and compromised system plans, potentially leading to cold spots within the heated area. Rectifying these issues later on can be both time-consuming and costly. To avoid such complications, it’s vital to double-check the accuracy of all drawings before submission.
2 – Overlooking the Damp-Proof Membrane
During underfloor heating installation, a common oversight is neglecting the importance of a damp-proof membrane (DPM). If the DPM is not installed between the insulation and the underfloor heating, it sets off an unfortunate sequence of events involving the screed and insulation. Specifically, the screed reacts with the aluminium foil on top of the insulation, causing corrosion. This reaction results in gas bubbles that manifest as air pockets within the screed. Instead of effectively conducting heat, the screed transforms into an insulator. This significantly reduces the efficiency of the underfloor heating system, as the heat gets trapped within the screed rather than warming the room above. It’s important to note that the Snug Castellation Mat system integrates the DPM directly into the mat, eliminating the need for a separate damp-proof membrane.
3 – Deviating from the Supplied Design Plan
Ensuring an efficient and effective underfloor heating system involves sticking to the unique design plans. These plans are meticulously calculated to ensure the most efficient system for that project. When these plans aren’t followed precisely, various issues can arise. There’s a risk of loss of project materials prematurely, resulting in added expenses during the later stages of the installation. This not only increases costs but can also lead to project delays and complications. At Snug, our expert Water team calculates individual flow rates and materials required to precise specifications for each project, guaranteeing the most even distribution of heat.
4 – Skipping the Pressure Test
In the rush to complete projects, installers sometimes overlook the essential pressure test. Failing to conduct this test can lead to significant consequences. It’s crucial to conduct the pressure test with water, not air, as air is compressible and makes it challenging to identify leaks. We strongly recommend a pressure test at 6 bar before laying the screed and 3 bar thereafter until the system is ready for commissioning. This step helps identify and address any installation-related leaks and prevents future screed cracking.
5 – Incorrect Temperature Sensor Usage
A common but often overlooked error in underfloor heating projects involves using the wrong temperature sensor on the thermostat. This is particularly critical in bathroom installations, where the thermostat is often located outside the bathroom. To ensure precise temperature control, it’s essential to use a floor probe sensor that is installed into the floor and detects the bathroom floor’s temperature. Relying on the thermostat’s air sensor, which measures the temperature outside the room, can lead to inconsistent heating. Using a floor probe sensor ensures that the warmth is regulated where it’s needed most, creating a comfortable and cosy bathroom environment.
Installing underfloor heating requires attention to detail at every stage. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can guarantee that the system operates efficiently and provides the most even distribution of heat. If you have any further inquiries or need expert guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team on 01772 761 333 or via email at sales@firsttrace.co.uk.
