RADIANT FLOORING
Radiant flooring, also known as underfloor heating, is a method of heating a building by using heat emanating from the floor. In a radiant floor heating system, hot water or electric coils are installed beneath the floor, which then warms up the floor and radiates heat upward into the room. The heat is transferred to the objects in the room, including furniture, walls, and people, creating a comfortable, even warmth.
Radiant flooring can be installed in a variety of flooring materials, including tile, hardwood, and concrete. It is often considered a more comfortable and energy-efficient heating option compared to traditional forced-air heating systems. Additionally, radiant flooring can be installed as either a primary or secondary heating source, depending on the specific heating needs of the building.
What do people love about radiant heating?
- Radiant, sometimes called under-floor, heating is a way to heat a building by circulating warm water through a network of piping, typically embedded in concrete.
- The warm surfaces radiate to the objects and people in the space, creating a comfortable environment.
- You don’t need to step out of the shower on to a freezing tile or sit in a different part of the office to avoid a forced-air draft anymore!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Heat emission from the human body occurs mainly via four mechanisms: radiation, evaporation, conduction and convection. Humans feel most comfortable when they can regulate at least 50% of their heat emission via radiation.
As an example, you feel warm when you stand in direct sunlight, even on a cold day. While the air temperature may be cold, the warm radiation from the sun feels nice. With radiant heating, the entire floor of your home can be a warm heat source, radiating heat to warm your skin. As an added bonus, all of the objects on the floor warm up, so no more ice cold chairs.
FAQ
- What layers are required for a heated floor?
- Basement Installation:
- Insulation (flat board with wire mesh or puck board can be used); final height of your space determines which type of insulation is used) with 4″ concrete overpour
- Main Floor/2nd Floor Installation
- Staple up from the joist space below the floor/in the ceiling (below the heated floor) with reflective plates with 1″ thinset overpour
- How should the site be prepped?
- Basement Installation
- 1-2″ clear stone sub-base is ideal; stone should be flat and level prior to laying any insulation.
- Main Floor/2nd Floor Installation
- Staple up (requires reflective plates) or staple down (requires a 1″ thinset overpour)
For more information on designing, building and installing a radiant floor or snow melting system, give us a call or email: 416-668-4607 or info@davesducts.com
SNOW & ICE MELTING
Snow and ice melting is a process of removing snow and ice from outdoor surfaces, such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots, using a heating system installed beneath the surface. The heating system is designed to melt the snow and ice, preventing it from accumulating on the surface and creating a hazard.
There are two main types of snow and ice melting systems: electric and hydronic. Electric systems use heating cables or mats installed beneath the surface to generate heat and melt the snow and ice. Hydronic systems use hot water or a mixture of water and antifreeze circulated through pipes installed beneath the surface to generate heat and melt the snow and ice.
Snow and ice melting systems are often used in areas with heavy snowfall or where ice accumulation poses a safety hazard. They are commonly used in commercial properties, such as shopping centers and hospitals, as well as residential properties. Snow and ice melting systems can help reduce the cost and labor associated with snow removal while improving safety and accessibility during winter weather conditions.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
- In a SIM system, a warm water/glycol solution is circulated through a network of pipes embedded in an outdoor surface, in order to melt the snow and ice above.
- System controls continually monitor data provided by outdoor sensors and ready the system to begin melting.
- WiFi connected controls calculate the most efficient use of energy by anticipating forecasted storms. After the surface is clear it automatically shuts off.
- DAVESDUCTS has the engineering expertise to help you design a system with output capacity geared to the specific conditions in your geographic area.
FAQ
- Where do I start if I want to install a snow melting system?
- Typically, you would hire a landscaper or if you do not have one we can refer to you some landscapers we’ve worked with in the past.
- How should a driveway be prepped?
- Driveway should be flat and level before any insulation is installed.
- What layers are there in a heated driveway?
- Typically, you would have the following:
– 2″ sub-base of 3/4″ clear stone or 5/8″ clear stone (prepared by your landscaper/excavator); compacted to ensure it is level and flat
– 2″ layer of flat-board insulation (includes wire mesh and 3/4 pex); for walkways were heights are an issue – you would forgo insulation and have 1/2″ pex placed on top of the existing steps and then a 1″ overpour of thinset to bind a paver stone.
– 4″ of HPB (high performance bedding) that is tightly compacted
– 3-4″ paver stone as your final finish - Where can the boiler be installed?
– Ideally in a conditioned space so that condensate does not freeze. It can be installed in a garage but proper protection for the appliance is required (ie. a bollard); space heater to condition the garage or heat trace for the condensate line can also be used.
For more information on designing, building and installing a radiant floor or snow melting system, give us a call or email: 416-668-4607 or info@davesducts.com
