There’s a lot to love about underfloor heating. It’s discreet, energy-efficient and leaves walls free of radiators. Choosing the right system isn’t just about efficiency or cost – it’s about compatibility with the floor structure, programme constraints and overall buildup.
Let’s start with the basics: Why floor type matters!
Underfloor heating isn’t just one system—it’s a category. Within it, different types of installations are better suited to various kinds of floor constructions. The way the floor is built – whether it’s a thick concrete screed, a timber suspended floor, or something in between – will determine things like how the pipes or cables are installed, how well the system performs and how much you’ll need to raise the floor (if at all).
1. Screed Systems – The classic choice for new builds.
Screed systems are probably your go-to option if you’re working on a new build or extension with a concrete floor. Screed systems involve laying the heating pipes for wet systems or electric cables on top of insulation and pouring a screed layer.
Why people love it: Screed acts as a thermal store, holding heat well and distributing evenly across the space.
Things to consider: You’ll need enough floor depth to accommodate the insulation, pipework and screed – typically 65mm or more. It also takes a while to dry, so plan accordingly if you work to a tight schedule. Coordinating with screed installers is key, especially with underfloor heating zones, manifold positions and expansion joints. At UFHN, we offer a comprehensive package with two high-performing screed options, which means you can benefit from a hassle-free installation using us as your key point of contact.
2. Floating Floor System – Great for timber or lightweight builds.
Do you have a timber floor or work in a space where weight is a concern? Floating floor systems might be your best option. These use pre-routed insulation panels that the pipework sits in, with the floor covering floating above.
Why it works: No screed means no wet trades, so it’s cleaner and faster to install – perfect for upper floors or retrofits.
Watch out for: Ensure a capping layer is installed underneath the final floor finish. We recommend applying a cementitious board above the chosen underfloor heating system. Our team of experts can give recommendations on a project-by-project basis.
3. Low profile systems – the retrofit hero.
Low-profile underfloor heating systems are a game changer when floor height is tight—think older properties, renovations, or rooms where you really don’t want to deal with shaving off doors or raising skirting boards. They usually involve super slim boards, or overlay systems (our systems are 15-18mm) that can be laid directly over existing floors.
Why do we love it? It causes minimal disruption and doesn’t require digging up floors. It’s one of the easiest ways to bring underfloor heating to an older home. Just remember that because there’s less thermal mass, they heat up quickly but can lose heat just as fast. Also worth considering in new builds with good insulation.
4. Suspended floor systems – perfect for upstairs and period homes.
If your project has timber joists and floorboards, suspended floor systems are what you’re after. These systems run pipework between the joists, often using aluminium heat emission plates to help distribute the heat.
The upside: It’s one of the few systems that works well in older buildings or upstairs rooms with traditional timber floors.
The catch: It takes a bit more effort to install, especially if you’re working around existing floorboards, which require more cutting and routing, but it’s well worth it if done right. Make sure you insulate between the joists to avoid heat loss downwards.
Final thoughts
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to underfloor heating, but that’s actually a good thing. With the right system matched to your floor type, you’ll get better comfort, better energy efficiency, and a smoother installation process.
Specifying the right underfloor heating system isn’t just about heat output or running costs—it’s about install, programme timing, floor build-up constraints, and compatibility with floor finishes and M&E systems. As an underfloor heating specialist, we can take the stress out of your underfloor heating project, from initial consultation and design to supply, installation, and commissioning. Please take a look at our range of floor constructions and get in touch to start your next underfloor heating project.