While traditional heating methods are commonly used to heat homes, one alternative that’s becoming more popular is underfloor heating. This type of heating is more eco-friendly and can help cut down on energy consumption.
Unlike traditional heating systems, underfloor heating doesn’t require regular maintenance. It provides a more even temperature and doesn’t dry the air, so you’ll feel warm under your feet. Although the cost of installation might not be much lower than a traditional radiator, this product is much more desirable.
That said, when it comes to heating your home, it’s still tricky trying to choose the best underfloor heating system. Do you go for that fancy new underfloor heating system, or stick with the old-fashioned radiator? What about the cost of the project and the quality and working of construction materials? How do you factor these into your final decision?
Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. We’ll compare all the different types of heating systems for you and the cost of installation of each of them. We’ll also talk about the benefits of this type of heating and how it can help you keep warm this winter.
What Is The Cost Of Underfloor Heating?
The entire cost of installing an underfloor heating system is dependent on multiple factors. The main ones include the dimensions of your room, the type of heating system, and the groundwork involved. The framework of an underfloor heating system depends on the floor’s size and the heating system’s complexity.
To install any type of heating system, first, the floor must be removed to lay and secure the system. Afterwards, fit the sensors/controls, and then switch on the power source. If the underfloor heating doesn’t feel sufficient, consider using an insulator to retain the heat and warm up the room quicker.
Before we begin discussing the prices, it’s important to first understand the different variations of underfloor heating systems and how each of them differs in functionality. We will analyze the price estimate for different sizes of rooms, the different heating options, and their respective installation costs.
Electric Underfloor Heating (Dry Systems)
These systems remove the hassle of installation services and can be fitted all by yourself. Besides being easier to install, they are cheaper than wet heating alternatives.
However, note that the maintenance spend might be much higher than expected. Also, if you have already built the flooring of your new house, retrofitting the electric system is highly recommended. In that situation, the high price is justifiable.
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Water Underfloor Heating (Wet System)
This unique system is well suited for newly built homes as they are significantly more elaborate. They have access to your boiler system, so their running cost is quite low compared to the electric one.
In light of this, we have compiled the estimated cost and the required time for both water underfloor heating and electric underfloor heating in this table:
| PROJECT | APPROXIMATE PRICE OF ELECTRIC UNDERFLOORHEATING | ESTIMATED COST OF WET UNDERFLOORHEATING | LABOUR PRICE | REQUIRED DURATION |
| Approximate price per square metre | £50 – £75 | £80 – £150 | £200 – £300 daily | 1 – 5 days |
| Approximate price for a small-sized bathroom (5 square metres) | £250 – £375 | £400 – £750 | £200 – £300 daily | 1 – 2 days |
| Approximate supply price for a mid-sized bathroom (10 square metres) | £500 – £750 | £800 – £1,500 | £200 – £300 daily | 2 – 3 days |
| Estimated supply price for a mid-sized kitchen (10 square metres) | £500 – £750 | £800 – £1,500 | £200 – £300 daily | 3 – 5 days |
| Estimated supply cost for a big kitchen (20 square metres) | £1,000 – £1,500 | £1,600 – £3,000 | £200 – £300 daily | 3 – 5 days |
Evidently, water underfloor heating systems are more expensive with lengthier installation durations. This brings about higher labour costs.
Cost Per Square Metre
The average cost per square metre of an electric underfloor heating system is around £50 – £75. On the other hand, the cost of water underfloor heating lies somewhere between £80 and £150, slightly higher than the previous one.
Small Bathroom Costs
For smaller bathrooms of about 5m², the electric underfloor heating system can bring your expenses somewhere between £250 – £375. On the other hand, the costs for the wet heating system can be raised from the minimum of £400 to about £750.
Medium Bathroom and Kitchen Costs
For mid-sized bathrooms and kitchens around 10m², electric underfloor heating services often set their prices at a minimum of £500 and a maximum of £750. Wet underfloor heating, however, is priced at £1,500 for the same bathroom and kitchen size,
Large-sized Kitchen Costs
For larger-sized kitchens and bathrooms of 20m², the expenses for electric underfloor heating are anywhere between £1,000 and £1,500, whereas the rates of wet underfloor heating are in the range of £1,600 and £3,000.
Labour Costs
The labour costs for electric or water underfloor heating systems are somewhat similar and often range from £200 to £300 per installation day, which extends according to the labour expertise. The installation service cost is also influenced by how far the floor is from the required piping framework and boiler.
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Factors That Impact The Price Of Installing Underfloor Heating:
Underfloor heating systems aren’t necessarily the cheapest solution for your heating needs, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth it. In fact, there are many benefits to installing underfloor heating. Among others, it’s a low-energy system, it maintains a constant temperature, you don’t have to change your decor or flooring, and it can be installed almost anywhere. Underfloor heating systems are established and reliable pieces of technology. Although they may come at a cost, compared with other systems, like central heating boilers, their efficiency more than makes up for this.
To understand the pricing better, you should be aware of the different elements that influence installation expenses. We have listed the following elements for you to evaluate to make a wise decision in investing your hard-earned money.
Choice of System
One of the main factors that can alter the total installation price is the kind of underfloor heating system you are opting for. The two types, wet and dry heating systems, vary in rates due to differences in framework and labour time. Of course, each underfloor heating system is different. Some have more heat capacity to provide for multiple rooms at once, and some have smaller capacities that only allow them to heat up one room at a time.
As mentioned before, water-free systems, like electric heating, are significantly cheaper than their wet counterparts. This is largely because they are easier to install and are well suited for multi-story houses or buildings. On the other hand, the cost of a wet heating system is raised due to the intricate installation of pipes and constant maintenance required. As opposed to wet underfloor heating, electric heating isn’t as efficient at heating the entire space. It also demands high amounts of energy to work.
Room Size
The cost of underfloor heating systems varies, depending on the dimensions of the room and the type of heating system you settle on. The cost covers the heaters, thermostats, accessories, and installation time, which can be anywhere from one day to five days. You’ll need to follow through on the installation cost by the size of the room you intend to heat up. For instance, if you anticipate fitting it in an essentially bigger space, then a proficient and costly wet underfloor system might be adequate to guarantee efficient heat distribution across the room.
New Build vs Retrofitting
The cost can be influenced by the type of space/floor you choose for installation. For example, it can be installed in two ways: retrofitted into the existing floor or fitted into a newly built one. Thus, if you attempt to fit underfloor heating into a newly constructed floor, the prices go down as you subtract the fees for retrofitting. But, if you intend to heat an existing floor, you’ll have to pay additional costs for labour and time consumed to lay the piping or wiring into the floor.
Heating Engineer or Electrician
Appropriate electrical work is needed to install underfloor heating systems. The installer has to be a fully qualified electrician to safely and effectively install wiring for power. Sometimes, a local plumber is required to monitor the wet heating system. It’s important that your plumber and electrician can answer all your questions about running underfloor heating systems. Likewise, both electrician and plumber will charge labour fees, adding to your installation expenses.
Running Costs
Startup costs are separate from the running costs for underfloor systems. The expenses don’t magically stop after fitting the heating but rather add to your monthly bills. Likewise, if you plan on installing additional features like a separate thermostat, screening, or insulation, you’ll have to spend a few extra pounds for that.
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How To Reduce Costs On Underfloor Heating?
If you are looking forward to installing underfloor heating into your home, there are several things you can do to reduce your overall heating bill.
Choose A Wet System
As mentioned above, a wet system is much cheaper in the long run than an electric system. A wet heating installation can heat up the floor at 50°C by connecting with the existing boilers. This significantly decreases the energy expenditure, saving 25% of monthly electricity cost compared to a radiator.
DIY Electronic Kits
To reduce some labour expenses, you can simply do whichever part of the installation process you can by yourself. That said, it would still be a very good idea to finalize the planning and groundwork with a professional who would check everything beforehand.
Plan Ahead
Planning underfloor heating options before building a new property is the best cost-effective strategy for the long term. Tearing down an already laid floor will incur additional labour costs and waste time. Moreover, a poorly installed heating system can result in customers paying more bills down the road.
Separate Thermostat for Each Room
For many reasons, investing in a separate thermostat for each room is a viable and cost-reducing option. For example, a separate thermostat will reduce the energy consumption of rooms that are not in use. It will also enable you to heat multiple rooms at different temperatures.
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What Is The Best Underfloor Heating System?
Pros of Wet Systems
- More efficient system than dry heating
- Saves 25% of monthly heating expenses
- A better substitute for radiators
- Best suited for larger areas/rooms
- Cheap running cost as it relies on the boiler system
- Maintains the aesthetic appeal of your home
- Attractive to potential buyers
Cons of Wet Systems
- Pricier to install than dry heating systems
- Difficult to retrofit after floor construction
Pros of Electric Systems
- Relatively more affordable than wet heating systems to install
- Can easily retrofit into the floor
- Better fit onto small rooms as heat doesn’t have to travel far
Cons of Electric Systems
- Heats the floor alone as opposed to the entire room, unlike wet systems
- Running costs are way higher than a wet system
- Not great for wooden floors as a result of the frequent switch ingredient
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Installation Process Of Underfloor Heating:
There are slight differences between the installation process and the use of dry and wet systems:
Dry Systems
Small bathrooms and kitchens often have electric underfloor heating. It is inexpensive to install and also easy to maintain. This system works with several wires that run under the floor, warming up the floor surface but not the room in an even and efficient manner. The wiring network can be installed as a flexible system, cable system, and heating mats. Flexible wiring is used for tighter or smaller spaces, cable wiring for larger rooms, and heating mats for the most effortless installation.
It is necessary to apply insulation under the heating wires and cables before installing an electric heating system, making the heating system more efficient. You can optimize the heat levels by using a separate thermostat, control panel, and sensor.
Wet Systems
Water underfloor heating provides the highest level of comfort and efficiency. This technique has been around for decades, but it has increased in popularity as people look for various ways to lower their energy consumption and money spent on their utility bills.
The system involves installing heating pipes under the floorboards of a building. These pipes are connected to the boiler, which heats up water to generate steam. The heat from this steam travels through the pipes and warms the floorboards. Since water pipes are thicker and wider than wire, they require more space beneath the floor for proper installation. An individual thermostat will be needed to optimize and regulate the temperature as well.
The system works the same with any boiler or heat source, e.g., vented, wood, condensing. Boilers or alternative heat sources such as solar heaters or heat pumps are also tested for efficiency enhancement. On the same note, wet systems are not intended for DIY installation since they require intricate plumbing connections and intensive testing, which should be left to professionals.
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How To Find A Professional For Underfloor Heating Installation?
Whether you want to tackle the heating project on your own or not, seeking suggestions from people you know is a good starting point. Plenty of people have already done this, and they’re more than happy to share their good and bad experiences.
That said, when it comes to hiring someone to install underfloor heating, there can still be a lot of confusion on which contractor to trust. With Household Quotes, you needn’t worry much about having to sift through several contractors. You can simply rest assured that our range of professionals is legitimate and trustworthy.
How To Ensure The Professional Is Right For You?
Professional builders and architects understand the value of underfloor heating and its incredible benefits for homes and businesses. A professional electrician needs to be qualified for the job as they are hired to ensure that electrical work is carried out in accordance with building regulations and industry standards.
Plus, your installation technician should be familiar with both the wet and dry installation methods, so you know you’re in good hands. You can install dry underfloor heating on your own, but a registered professional can be of great use to you by properly securing connections and making circuit alterations when and where necessary.
Additionally, there are laws that ensure the insurance of all trustworthy contractors. However, it’s not a bad idea to ask or check in with your contractor. If they’re reluctant to mention their insurance upfront, take it as a sign, move on and look for another reputable contractor.
Moreover, you can check out the reviews and references of the respective contractor to get an accurate picture of their work performance.
Lastly, always be sure to get written quotes. You don’t want to end up dealing with someone who gives you a verbal quote and then raises the price when the work starts. You’ll know exactly what you’re getting into, and there won’t be any unpleasant surprises later on.
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Final Checklist:
You can make your home warmer and more comfortable by installing underfloor heating, but it’s not always obvious how to do so. If You’ve decided on the type of underfloor heating, here are the last few steps you have to take to ensure your project goes smoothly:
- What kind of heating do you want? The type of flooring, the size of the space, and your budget will determine your final choice.
- Do you want to retrofit or a new build? The decision will depend on the current condition of the existing space, your home’s future needs, and your budget.
- In the case of a dry system, are you willing to do some work yourself and avoid paying for demolition and construction fees?
- The decision to choose a contractor should not be taken lightly. Also, ensure the terms are in written format, so there’s no room for misunderstanding or price hikes once the work starts.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Underfloor Heating Services:
Does underfloor heating require planning permission?
No. Planning permissions are not usually required for the installation of a heating system or in the replacement of a boiler. However, suppose you are planning to build an extension of your property or have a listed or historic property. In that case, you will have to consult a local planning authority or architect to check your permissions.
Which kind of underfloor heating is the cheapest?
The cheapest startup heating plan is electric heating, but wet heating will be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. The running cost of electric heating is much higher owing to the additional expense of adding insulation board, screed, and heating controls.
All in all, whether it is electric or wet underfloor heating, the overall expenditure will depend on the floor size, the structure of your floor, and whether it is to be retrofitted or installed in a new room.
How does underfloor heating compare with radiators in terms of operating costs?
If you are running a wet heating system, the operating costs are somewhat similar or even lower than radiators. The running cost is low since underfloor heating systems take much less time to heat up than traditional radiators. Radiators require an optimum temperature of around 70°C – 90°C, while a wet underfloor heating system can perform the same function at about 50°C.
Are older homes capable of having underfloor heating?
In older homes, both electric and wet underfloor heating systems can be retrofitted. But, wet heating will likely be more expensive since the piping work will be complicated and time-consuming. Furthermore, if you want to install a building with no insulation and single glazing, a central heating system or radiators in combination with underfloor heating is preferable.
What are the best places to install underfloor heating in your home?
Underfloor heating is commonly installed in bathrooms and kitchens, but you can also in bedrooms, hallways, and the basement if you want to change the radiators. If you wish to warm up a larger space, a wet system will suffice in diffusing heat across the whole area. Electric systems only heat up the floors. Therefore, they are better suited for smaller-sized rooms and spaces.
Are wooden floors compatible with underfloor heating?
Yes! they are. However, it is recommended to use laminated or engineered wood floors instead of solid wood. The frequent temperature change can eventually shrink and warp the solid wood flooring.
Are concrete floors compatible with underfloor heating?
Yes. Concrete floors can receive and retain heat for extended periods. They are ideal for both wet and dry heating systems but should not be exposed to underfloor heating without screed.
Are carpets a good fit for underfloor heating?
Both dry and wet systems perform just fine with the carpet but take a long time for heat to get through and spread across. Nevertheless, it is possible to heat carpets to a maximum temperature of 27°C, giving you a sense of warmth and softness beneath your feet.
How long does it take underfloor heating systems to get warm?
This largely depends on the type of floor and the efficiency of the underfloor heating system. Floors made out of stone, for example, can take about two to three hours to get fully heated after being cold for a while. Under that specific circumstance, it is better to turn on the heating before everyone else gets back home.
Is it possible to install underfloor heating by yourself?
If you want to save the additional cost of hiring a professional electrician, you can install the underfloor heating on your own. For electric systems, you can use a heat mat. Depending on the space size, it will cost you around £20 to £50.
Conversely, DIY wet floor system kits come in a package of approximately £500+, including the pump, thermostat, screed, and pipework enough to heat a 20m² area. If you decide to do all the installation work yourself, you can stay within a budget of £1000.
All things considered, you should still consult an electrician or plumber to analyse and plan the ground to ensure safe and effective heating performance.
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Conclusion: Where Can I Get Underfloor Heating Services In The UK For Cheap?
Whether you’re remodelling your home or building a new one, underfloor heating should be one of your top priorities. Central heating is the norm, but it’s not always the most efficient or affordable way to heat a home.
A well-insulated house with an underfloor heating system will keep your house warm during the cold winter. Plus, you can save even more money on your energy bills by linking your underfloor heating system to a renewable energy source like solar panels or a wind turbine. Therefore, Underfloor heating is a worthwhile investment for any household.
To choose the best underfloor heating system, there are many factors to consider, including the cost of the project and the quality and working of construction materials. Installing underfloor heating
