Warm Floor Store

Your Guide To In Screed Electric Underfloor Heating

19/08/2024
Underfloor Heating

Are you considering installing in-screed electric underfloor heating in your home or commercial space? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this efficient and modern heating solution. From its benefits to installation tips, you'll gain a clear understanding of why it’s a popular underfloor heating system choice.

What is In Screed Electric Underfloor Heating?

In screed underfloor heating is a type of electric underfloor heating system where electric heating cables are embedded within the screed layer of the floor. The screed, a mixture of sand, cement, and water, acts as a thermal mass that absorbs and radiates heat evenly across the floor surface. This heating method provides consistent warmth and can be used under various types of flooring, including tiles, stone, and even engineered wood.

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Benefits of In Screed Electric Underfloor Heating

Every type of electric underfloor heating and water underfloor heating system has pros and cons, depending on your project needs. Here are the key benefits of in-screed underfloor heating:

  1. Energy Efficiency

    In screed electric underfloor heating systems are known for their energy efficiency. The screed layer stores and distributes heat evenly, reducing energy consumption compared to traditional heating systems. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.

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  2. Comfort and Consistency

    With electric underfloor heating in screed, you’ll experience a comfortable and consistent temperature throughout your space. Unlike traditional radiators that create hot spots, underfloor heating ensures even heat distribution, eliminating cold patches on your floor.

    Read more: Is Underfloor Heating Worth It?

  3. Space Saving

    Installing in screed electric underfloor heating frees up wall and floor space that would otherwise be occupied by radiators. This allows for more flexibility in interior design and furniture placement.

  4. Great For New Construction and Renovation Projects

    In-screed underfloor heating is a great option for new construction or renovation projects, it can be installed during the building process, and embedded into the concrete slab. This type of underfloor heating is extremely efficient, it provides an even heat distribution and can be zoned to heat different areas of the home independently.

Installation of In Screed Electric Underfloor Heating: Step-by-Step Guide

When installing your in screed underfloor heating, you want to be sure that you are following the right installation process. This is a rough how-to guide, but if you have any doubt, check out the datasheet for your chosen system, and consult a professional.

  1. Preparation

    Start by preparing the subfloor to ensure it is clean, level, and free from debris. If there are any bumps or uneven areas, you will need to level them out using a floor levelling compound. Proper preparation is crucial for the efficient operation of your in screed electric underfloor heating system.

  2. Insulation

    Lay down a layer of insulation boards to prevent heat loss downward. This ensures that the heat generated by the electric cables is directed upwards into the room.

    Popular choices include:

  3. Laying the Heating Cables

    Carefully lay out the electric heating cables according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the cables are evenly spaced to ensure uniform heat distribution.

  4. Installing the Screed

    Many wonder, can you screed over electric underfloor heating? And put simply, yes, you can screed over electric underfloor heating. In fact, embedding the heating cables within the screed layer is a recommended installation method. This approach ensures efficient heat transfer and provides a durable, long-lasting heating solution.

    Once the cables are in place, you can pour the screed mixture over the heating cables, ensuring it covers them completely. Use a screed bar to level the surface and allow it to cure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

  5. Connecting the Thermostat

    Connect the heating system to a thermostat to control the temperature. The thermostat should be installed in a convenient location, such as a hallway or living room, where it can be easily accessed. Thermostats compatible with electric underfloor heating are available from brands such as Warmup, Schluter, Amber, Devi, Rise, Thermosphere, Harmoni, Mapei, and Heatmiser. Make sure to use the manufacturer's recommended thermostat for the heating cable you have installed.

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Which In Screed Underfloor Heating Cable Should I Buy?

We stock two reliable, high-quality in screed underfloor heating systems from top brands Warmup and Devi. In the table below we compare the two systems to help you make an informed decision.

DEVIbasic 20S (DSIG) In-Screed Heating Cable DEVIbasic Heating Cable Warmup DWS Loose Wire Underfloor Heating System Warmup Heating System

DSIG-20 single conductor heating cable is a 20watt linear metre cable used to install within sand and cement screed for providing underfloor heating in houses, flats, offices, public buildings, factories, schools, nursing homes, etc.

The cable is simply fixed to the floor using the devifast fixing strip, ensuring both even spacing and even heat across the floor.

The heating cable can be controlled by any Devi thermostats.

Warmup’s Loose Wire System doesn’t raise floor levels and is perfect for bringing radiant warmth to any room in your home renovation project.

If you’re looking for an underfloor heating solution for an irregularly shaped room or a room featuring many fixed objects, such as baths or cabinets, Warmup’s Loose Wire Underfloor Heating System is an ideal choice.

The electric heating wires are just 1.8mm thin, meaning they won’t impact floor heights and it is recommended for use with stone or tiled floor finishes.

The system is available as a kit – featuring all you need for a successful installation, including the heating wire, primer, tape and even a roller brush.

Key Benefits:
  • Cable Construction – Single Conductor
  • 3 metre Cold Tails
  • Thickness – 5.5mm
  • Fully Screened
  • 20 Year DEVI floor guard warranty
  • Choice of 15 sizes
Key Benefits:
  • Perfect for irregularly shaped rooms or rooms with fixed objects
  • No increase in floor heights
  • Available as a full installation kit
  • 1.8mm thin
  • SafetyNet™ installation guarantee.
  • Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Choice Of 4 Sizes

In screed electric underfloor heating is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, comfortable, and space-saving heating solution. By following the proper installation guidelines and understanding the benefits, you can enjoy a warm and cosy environment in your home or commercial space.

If you're ready to take the next step, explore our range of in-screed electric underfloor heating options available at Warm Floor Store and contact our experienced sales team on 0330 320 9900 if you have any questions or need assistance with your order.