Radiant Heat In The Bathroom

Hydronic radiant tubing has typically been installed in concrete slabs, but it can also be installed both above the subfloor in a l-1/2-in.-thick concrete or gypsum-based thin slab or stapled beneath the subfloor utilizing aluminum heat-transfer plates. Hydronic tubing can also be installed in the ceiling, beneath a walk-in shower, or even in a wall, turning any of these surfaces into a large low-level heat radiator.

Where a hydronic heat source isn't available, electric radiant heat can be a cost-effective alternative. Hydronic radiant-heat systems have a long cycling time: They heat up and cool down slowly, so usually the thermostat controlling them remains relatively constant. Electric radiant heat, on the other hand, has a quick response time. The heat can be turned on only when needed, like a light, and the room quickly warmed. After use, the system can be turned off again to conserve energy.

There are several different electrical radiant-heating methods. Perhaps the most versatile is a thin mat that is applied to the subfloor with thinset just before the tile is set. This system's main advantage is that it only raises the finish floor elevation about Vs in., making it a good choice for retrofits. Some types of hardwood flooring and carpeting can also be used with this product. Another system relies on cables that are set into either a 1/2-in.-thick mortar bed on top of a conventionally framed subfloor or into a regular concrete slab floor. A third type of system is a foil consisting of an electric heating element sandwiched between two layers of mylar. Sheets of this foil can be installed beneath the subfloor between the floor joists or between the ceiling joists and the finished ceiling.

A final type of radiant panel is comprised of a gypsum sheet embedded with electrical wiring. These Vi-in. panels can be installed and finished just like regular dry wall and turn the wall or ceiling into a radiant surface. This type of system has a slower cycling time than other types of electric radiant heat.

By: Mirna

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Mirna is co-owner of Bathroom Wall, an online resource that covers all aspects of bathroom designs and bathroom design ideas and bathroom furniture. Visitors to Bathroom Wall will be met with invaluable do it yourself guides and historic information with tips about the most cost effective ways of decorating a bathroom.Tubs and showers