The Pros and Cons of Slab Heating

More and more house owners have started to take slab heating technology seriously and have started using it in their homes.  In this particular system, the tubes that circulate hot water or electrical heating elements are installed in the concrete slab when it's poured; while turning the thermal mass of the concrete into a discreet radiator of warm, even heat. 

There are plenty of benefits of using a slab heating system. However, it also has its share of disadvantages as well. Here are a few pros and cons of using the slab heating systems for your house. Take a look -  

Advantages:

• Uniform comfort –

Conventional heaters are restricted to a particular area, while the under-flooring heating radiates heat from the floor to the roof. There is a uniform temperature throughout the living space, making it extremely comfortable for inhabitants especially during the winter season. Slab heating is, therefore, a great choice for the new homes as well as the old ones. 

• Save on energy –

Underfloor heating is a very convenient option if you wish to save on some extra cash. With the ever-growing prices of energy, slab heating is a welcome relief. It is an effective system that doesn’t only help you with a warm, comfortable living space, but also saves you a lot of energy. 

• Stylish and saves on space –

Large heaters in a room can be a distraction; in fact, they ruin the aesthetic appeal of the house. Slab heating, on the other hand, is convenient since the under-floor heating remains hidden. This also saves on a lot of space. 

• Clean air –

In the slab heating system, the air floor is continuous and even throughout the room. Therefore, the air is always clean and fresh.

Disadvantages:

• Restricted to certain flooring type—

Under floor heating is restricted to a particular flooring type. They are especially effective in marbles and tiles. While many people have tried installing the under-floor heating system on a wooden or a laminated flooring, its effectiveness, however, has been compromised to a great level. Thus, this limitation restricts its growth in homes beside marbles and tiles. 

• Floor height –

Before installing a slab heating system, one must make sure that the floor is of a certain height. If you have already planned to install the system in a new build and have followed the pre-requisites, there will not be a problem. But, if you are planning to install a slab heating system in an old house that does not have the required height, there may be an issue. 

• Main heating source –

No heating system can deliver cent percent if it is not supported by an efficient insulation system. Make sure that there is no heat loss. The better the insulation, the better is the heating system. 

• Costs –

The slab heating system may not be affordable to all. While the floor heating systems are gaining popularity day by day, the conventional heaters, still continue to have an edge over the under-floor heating systems because of their affordability. These under-floor heating systems are especially installed in posh areas. The clientele base remains restricted to the upper class or the upper middle-class people. They have still not been able to reach the common men. 

These are a few pros and cons that you must keep in mind before installing the floor heating systems. The process of installation of the slab system involves a lot of minds. The process will be a success if only all the people who are involved, from the concrete contractor, general contractor to the owner work in close proximity with one another. It must be a team effort so that the best can be delivered. The owner here plays the most important role as others will be brought into action only through his guidance.  The flooring heating system is the most recommended system, especially in homes with kids and elderly.