(NC)-Renovations and home improvements are a growing trend
among Canadian homeowners. One project that may not be on the
top of your list, but is definitely worth considering is
installing hydronic (water) radiant floor heating.
Radiant floor heating is a method of heating your home by
applying heat underneath or within the floor. Comparable to
warming yourself in the sun, this type of heating warms objects
as opposed to raising the temperature of the air.
A typical radiant floor heating system consists of a series of
tubes set in a bed of lightweight concrete or other similar
material, then covered by any standard floor covering. Hot
water is circulated through the tubing, which warms the bedding
material and radiates heat up from the floor to warm the entire
house.
The cost of an installing a hydronic radiant floor heating
system will be depend on your specific heating and energy
efficiency requirements and in addition to the heating system,
a mechanical ventilation system is required in the house.
There are a lot of advantages to radiant floor heating besides
the warmth under your feet.
There are no heat registers in the floor or heaters in the wall
to restrict the placement of furniture and window coverings.
Since there is no airflow forcing the heat into the rooms,
there are no drafts or unpleasant air currents, and wall and
ceiling surfaces stay cleaner. Radiant floor heat is silent,
and there are no filters to clean.
Homeowners should consult with a qualified heating contractor
who will explain their options. To locate a qualified
contractor specializing in hydronic heating, log onto
www.hrac.ca
or call toll-free at 1-877-411-HRAC (4722).
