When it comes to combining luxurious style with practicality, Karndean flooring is a top choice for many homeowners. But if you’re planning on installing underfloor heating in your home, you might be wondering whether Karndean luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is suitable. The good news is that Karndean flooring is compatible with underfloor heating, but there are some key factors to keep in mind to ensure a smooth installation and long-lasting performance.
Why Karndean and Underfloor Heating Are a Great Match
Karndean LVT flooring is designed to replicate the look of natural materials like wood and stone, while offering enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Its multi-layered construction makes it highly resilient, and crucially, it’s suitable for use with underfloor heating systems, provided certain guidelines are followed.
Unlike some types of flooring that may warp or become damaged due to fluctuating temperatures, Karndean flooring is designed to withstand moderate heat. This makes it an excellent pairing with underfloor heating, offering the warmth and comfort you desire without compromising the aesthetic appeal of your floors.
What to Consider When Installing Karndean with Underfloor Heating
- Ensure the Correct Temperature Settings
While Karndean flooring is compatible with underfloor heating, it’s important to manage the temperature carefully. The surface temperature of the floor should never exceed 27°C (80°F). Exceeding this limit can cause damage to the flooring, affecting its appearance and longevity. Most modern underfloor heating systems allow you to set a maximum temperature, so make sure this feature is utilized.
Before laying the flooring, it’s also recommended to run the heating system for a few days to ensure it’s working correctly and to get a feel for the temperature levels.
- Allow for Proper Heat Distribution
One of the key benefits of underfloor heating is the even distribution of warmth throughout a room. However, to ensure this works effectively with Karndean LVT flooring, it’s important that the heating system is installed correctly. The heat must be distributed evenly across the entire floor surface.
A poorly installed system could result in hot spots, which may lead to uneven heating and potential damage to the flooring. Always consult with a professional installer who has experience with both underfloor heating and LVT flooring to ensure a smooth installation process.
- Choosing the Right Underlay
When laying Karndean flooring over underfloor heating, the choice of underlay is critical. Not all underlays are suitable for use with heating systems, so you’ll need to opt for a product that allows heat to pass through efficiently. Underlays that are specifically designed for use with underfloor heating ensure that heat is not trapped beneath the floor, which could otherwise lead to inefficient heating and increased energy costs.
Karndean offers underlays suitable for use with their LVT flooring and heating systems, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
- Acclimatise the Flooring
Before installation, it’s essential to allow your Karndean LVT flooring to acclimatise to the room where it will be laid. Store the flooring in the room for at least 24 hours with the underfloor heating switched off. This helps the material adjust to the ambient temperature and prevents any expansion or contraction once the heating system is turned on.
- Use the Right Adhesive
The adhesive used to bond Karndean LVT flooring to the subfloor is another crucial factor in ensuring compatibility with underfloor heating. The adhesive must be heat-resistant to cope with the rising temperatures from the heating system. Karndean recommends specific adhesives that are compatible with their flooring and underfloor heating, so make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Start the Heating System Gradually
After the installation is complete, it’s important to turn the underfloor heating system on gradually. Start with a low temperature and slowly increase it over a few days. This helps the flooring adjust to the change in temperature without causing any stress to the material. Rapid changes in temperature can lead to expansion or contraction, so patience during this step is key.
The Benefits of Combining Karndean with Underfloor Heating
Opting for underfloor heating beneath your Karndean flooring brings numerous benefits. It frees up wall space as radiators are no longer needed, and it creates a more even, comfortable warmth throughout the room. In addition, Karndean flooring’s low thermal resistance allows heat to transfer efficiently, making it an energy-efficient choice.
You’ll also benefit from the stylish, easy-to-maintain surface that Karndean flooring is known for, ensuring your home remains both beautiful and cosy.
Yes, Karndean flooring can absolutely be used with underfloor heating, making it a great choice for homeowners who want the best of both style and warmth. By following the right installation steps and ensuring proper temperature control, you can enjoy the comfort of heated floors without worrying about damaging your LVT flooring.
Whether you’re renovating a single room or planning a large-scale project, Karndean’s compatibility with underfloor heating means you can enjoy luxurious, comfortable floors that stand the test of time.