Heating Your Wood Flooring
When the topic of floor heat is mentioned, most people would immediately think of heated tile. The concept of heating wood floors is somewhat newer and therefore less understood. Today more and more home owners are choosing to warm the wood flooring in their kitchens, living rooms, and foyers with electric floor heating systems such as WarmStep®. As we talk to customers, we receive a wide variety of questions but have noticed some common themes. We wanted to take this opportunity to address the TOP 5 QUESTIONS we receive about our WarmStep in-floor heating system.
What Flooring Materials is WarmStep Compatible With?
WarmStep is an extremely versatile system that can be used with a wide variety of flooring materials. Although the system was designed primarily for heating wood flooring, it can also be used to warm laminate, and rigid vinyl (SPC and WPC) flooring coverings. As for subfloors, it can be installed on top of plywood, OSB, cement, and concrete.
What Installation Methods is WarmStep Compatible With?
Flooring can be glued, nailed, or even floated with the WarmStep system. Notably, it is the only product of its kind approved by the National Wood Flooring Association for direct installation with hardwood and engineered wood floors. This means that you do not need to embed the system in a mortar or self-leveler. This makes for a much quicker installation and cuts down on materials.
Are There Any Safeguards in Place to Protect My Wood Flooring?
Absolutely! The WarmStep system was designed specifically for safely heating wood flooring. Distributing a gentle and even heat output of 6 Watts per ft2, the system protects your wood flooring from fast temperature fluctuations. Also, the mats heating cables act as a thermal fuse which safely power down the system in the event of overheating.
WarmStep mats are always paired with a floor heating thermostat that communicates with an in-floor temperature sensor for precise control. The thermostat allows users to set a maximum temperature limit for added protection. They also include a wood floor heating setting to maintain an optimum range.
As with any wood flooring installation, we recommend installing an in-floor datalogger (available through ThermoSoft) that records the relative humidity and temperature of the flooring environment. This alerts homeowners to issues in real time so corrective actions can be taken immediately.
What Happens if the Heating Cable Were to Become Damaged?
First, we must point out that this situation is extremely rare. However, we do have safeguards in place to help you through any issues that may arise. Prior to installation, each mat’s resistance must be verified and recorded. Perform a second test prior to installing your flooring to verify there has been no change in the resistance readings.
In addition, we highly recommend using an InstAlarm Pro (also available through ThermoSoft) during installation. If any changes in resistance occur, the alarm will sound alerting you to a potential issue.
Field repair options are also available through ThermoSoft. Once you have received the materials needed to perform the repair, a member of our technical support team will guide you through the restoration.
How do you Connect the Mats Together?
There is no need to hook the mats together. We carry mats of varying sizes ranging from 1.5-3 feet wide and 3-24 feet in length. Each mat is connected directly to your floor heating thermostat. Each thermostat can supply up to 15 amps. If you are heating a large room requiring a combination of mats exceeding 15 amps we have options available to expand your capacity.
Any More Questions?
We realize this can be a lot to take in if you are new to floor heating. Thankfully our floor heating specialists are here to help. Speak to a knowledgeable member of our U.S. based support team and start planning your install today! Be sure to check out our Resources Center for helpful articles like “The Future of Floor Heating is Here” to learn more about the WarmStep floor heating system.
Why ThermoSoft’s Floor Heating Systems are the Answer For You
With these benefits in mind, where can you add comfort and value at the same time?
Look no further than ThermoSoft floor heating systems! We have the fastest warm-up time in the industry, and installation is simple and DIY-friendly.
Benefits of ThermoSoft Floor Heating
- Available for All Types of Flooring: Tile, Laminate, Solid and Engineered Wood, Vinyl, Cement Slab, and Carpet
- Exceptional Comfort: Warms rooms and not ceilings, Uniform, ideal heat pattern, Say goodbye to drafty rooms, Invisible and silent, Individual room control
- Cleaner, Healthier, Maintenance-Free: No dirty vents or ducts, No more drying out your air
- Energy-Saving: 100% Efficiency, More comfort, less energy, Use less energy by needing less heat
- Easy to Install: Designed with installation in mind, Tools already in your toolbox, Simple hookup, We’re here to support you
ThemoSoft never compromises on your comfort or safety, so why would you?
Start enjoying each space more than ever with ThermoSoft floor heating systems. Visit us online or contact Thermosoft today.
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Don’t Trust Just Any Floor Heating Systems – Insist on ThermoSoft Products
ThermoSoft offers the best-performing and most reliable radiant electric heat solutions on the market. Our systems are safe and can be installed quickly during a room remodel or a new home build.
ThermoSoft products are made in America and are backed by our best-in-class customer service. We design and manufacture our systems here in Vernon Hills, Illinois with the highest quality control. We have an in-house team of qualified professionals to offer guidance and advice every step of the process – from selection to installation and beyond for years to come.
Certified, Tested & Approved
ThermoTile floor heating mats for tile and stone will take your bathroom to the next level! Add floor heat to enhance your space and make your bathroom feel like a luxurious spa.
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