Low Profile Underfloor Heating Systems

1. Thin Self-Leveling Screed Systems
- These systems involve applying a thin layer of self-leveling screed (usually around 15-30mm thick) directly over the heating elements, such as PEX tubing or electric heating cables.
- The screed helps to evenly distribute the heat and acts as a thermal mass, providing more consistent heating.
- This system is often used with water-based underfloor heating but can also work with electric systems.

2. Low-Profile Electric Underfloor Heating Mats
- Some electric underfloor heating mats are designed to be very thin and can be installed directly under various floor coverings, including tiles, laminate, and engineered wood.
- These mats have minimal impact on floor height while still providing efficient heating.

3. Grooved Insulation Panels
- Insulation panels with grooves or channels are designed to accommodate heating pipes or cables.
- The insulation helps reflect heat upwards and reduces heat loss to the subfloor.
- These panels are usually laid down directly on the subfloor, and the grooves house the heating elements.

4. Overlay Systems
- Overlay systems involve placing pre-fabricated panels on top of the existing subfloor.
- These panels incorporate the heating elements and sometimes include additional insulation.
- The panels can be made from various materials, such as plywood, gypsum, or cement board.

5. Low-Profile Retrofit Systems
- Retrofit underfloor heating systems are specifically designed to be added to existing floors without significantly raising the floor height.
- These systems often use innovative materials and installation techniques to keep the profile low while still providing effective heating.

Low Profile Underfloor System
The Hercuglas low profile underfloor system is a lightweight, heavy-duty floor heating system that requires no screed and due to its thin depth of only 10mm is recommended for renovations where ceiling heights are fixed. It is designed to be used with Hercuglas 10mm PEX pipe, which is inserted into the insulation boards. The PEX pipe is at the heart of our system due to its strong, flexible and kink-resistant nature and also comes with our best warranties and guarantees.
Advantages
- System height from 3.2 to 5 cm including the final floor. The system is designed around special gypsum fiberboards which are produced under pressure from special gypsum which is reinforced with cellulose fibers and specially processed with hydrophobic additives for moisture resistance.
- Ideal system for insulating building floors from air carried sounds.
- Ability to lay any type of final floor.
- Ideal system for old and new residences.
- Flexible PEX MD 10mm pipe with high thermal conductivity for energy saving.
- Immediate heating distribution and elimination of inertia phenomenon. Due to its small mass and its high thermal conductivity as a system (pipe and board), it heats the room instantly. It distributes heat 8% quicker than the typical heating radiators.
- Compared to the typical under-floor heating systems it saves up to 20% energy and 50% compared to heating radiators. The new system achieves almost the same heat output per square meter compared to a typical under-floor heating system and, at the same time, contains 60% less water in its hydraulic network.
- Low weight. The total weight of this system is 20kg/m² without the final floor, instead of 90 kg/m².
- Certified system output with standard thermal conductivity coefficient which does not depends on other factors (e.g. thermal concrete).
- Drying procedure not needed.
- Low thermal expansion.
- Smaller cabinets and manifolds.
- Can be combined with all heat sources
5 STEPS TO INSTALLING HERCUGLAS RENEWABLES HEATING SYSTEM
- Assess the heating needs of the building, taking into account factors like square footage, insulation, and local climate.
- Decide on the type of heating system you want to install, including underfloor infrared radiant heating.
- Design the layout of the underfloor heating system, including the placement of pipes and radiant panels.
- Determine the location for cylinders and tanks, considering factors like accessibility and available space.
- Procure all the necessary components, including underfloor heating panels, pipes, controls (thermostats, timers, etc.), cylinders, and tanks.
- Ensure that you have the appropriate tools for installation, such as pipe cutters, wrenches, and electrical tools.
- Prepare the subfloor for the underfloor heating system. This may involve cleaning the surface and ensuring it's level and free from debris.
- Install the underfloor heating panels or mats according to the manufacturer's instructions. These will house the heating pipes.
- Lay out and secure the heating pipes within the underfloor panels. Connect the pipes to the appropriate manifolds.
- Install the cylinders and tanks in their designated locations, connecting them to the heating system as needed.
- Install the heating system controls, including thermostats, timers, and any smart home integration if applicable.
- Connect the heating system to the electrical supply, ensuring proper wiring and safety measures.
- Connect the heating system to the plumbing system, ensuring proper water flow and connections to the cylinders and tanks.
- Fill the heating system with water and perform a pressure test to check for leaks in the pipes and connections.
- Test the heating system to ensure that it's functioning as intended. Check the underfloor heating, cylinders, tanks, and controls.
- Fine-tune the system settings to achieve the desired temperature and efficiency.
- Educate the building occupants about how to use the heating system effectively.