Can vinyl flooring be installed over radiant heat?

Yes, Urban Surfaces' vinyl flooring can be installed over a hydronic radiant heat system. Basically, a hydronic radiant heating system turns the floors into radiators. It warms living spaces. It does that without vents in the walls like conventional forced-air heating systems. In short, heated water is pumped from a boiler through a loop of flexible tubing embedded in the floor. Important: Before you install vinyl flooring over a hydronic radiant heat system, first you must:

• Ensure job site conditions are stable.
• Ensure subfloor suitability.
• Ensure flooring meets proper acclimation period.

Next, you should:

• Read the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Verify the heat system’s compatibility with a vinyl floor.
• Check the requirements for installation.

Ask the provider of the heat system about proper subfloors, installation methods, and guidelines for specific flooring types such as these:

Vinyl Flooring Guidelines:

• In-floor radiant components must be a minimum of ½ an inch (13mm) below the flooring within the substrate.
• Slab surface temperature must never exceed 85° F or 29° C.
• Heat system should be operational for at least two weeks before flooring installation to calibrate temperature settings.

Remember:

• Never lay vinyl floors over radiant heating mats.
• Lower temperature to 65° F or 18° C three days before installation.

After installing vinyl flooring, slowly adjust the temperature. Do this each day by increments of 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Rapid swings in temperatures might damage the flooring. Quick Tip: To avoid overheating, use an in-floor temperature sensor.