Not knowing the proper
procedures for installing hardwood floors over
in floor radiant heating systems can
spell disaster for any new hardwood floor.
Radiant heat under hardwood flooring is done
through installation of tubing in concrete or
below plywood subfloors.
It's important to note any radiant heating
system should be turned on prior to
any
hardwood installation... over a period of 5-6
days or longer to insure there will not be any
complications. New concrete slabs may require
longer periods of time. Reasons for activating
the heating system before any hardwood
installation are to dry out any excessive
moisture in the subfloor itself. Skipping this
important step will allow moisture in the
subfloor to enter the hardwood flooring itself
resulting in numerous undesired effects.
When using the radiant
heating system at the onset of winter or
cooler months, it is strongly suggested to
turn up the heat gradually. Not doing so will
cause the floors to cup or crown or show other
undesired characteristics. As in mother
nature...don't shock the environment...do so
gradually over a period of time.
Some hardwood species are not suggested for
radiant heat floors. Quarter sawn or rift sawn
hardwood is preferred over plain sawn material
due to it's dimensional stability. In
addition, strip flooring(2 1/4" in width)
would be a better choice because narrow boards
expand and contract less than that of wider
boards. Furthermore strip floors have more
seams to receive the seasonal movement and
will be less noticeable.
Hardwood Flooring
Warranties & Radiant Heat
Just because Joe the
builder down the street has installed some
radiant in floor heat and plans to use
hardwood flooring, don't be led to think it's
as simple as that. The majority of prefinished
floor manufacturers are reluctant to warrant
their products over radiant heat because they
have no control over how the system is
operated or what type is being used. This not
only includes solid hardwoods but engineered
as well. The installation preference with
radiant heat and manufacturers seems to be
with floating floor systems. Reasons being the
floor itself is not in direct contact with the
sub floor. If in doubt always refer to the
specifications from the manufacturer |
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