Is it possible to use a polystyrene system for a water heated floor in a frame house for a final coating of tiles?
Good afternoon! Tell me, please, is it possible to use a polystyrene system for a water heated floor in a frame house for a final coating of tiles?
Irina
Expert Answer
Irina, good afternoon!
The polystyrene system for a water floor heating is a real “layer cake”, which includes:
- polystyrene foam plates that prevent heat leakage into the ceiling;
- aluminum reflector panels laid in channels of heat-insulating plates;
- heating circuit in the form of cross-linked polyethylene pipes.
The advantage of floor heating of this type is that it does not need to be tied to the floor. The presence of aluminum slats allows you to get rid of the need for a concrete screed, which performs the function of a heat-distributing surface. Non-ferrous metal has good heat dissipation, so the heat is evenly distributed on the surface - under the feet there is no temperature difference between the individual sections. All this translates into a number of advantages: a reduced system height, the ability to install on weak floors and easy installation without "wet work".
As you can see, polystyrene floor heating is not only suitable for use in frame houses, but it is also the best option if we consider underfloor heating systems.
As for the possibility of arranging a finishing coating of ceramic tiles, for this the “cake” of floor heating is covered with gypsum-fiber or cement-bonded particle boards, on top of which, in fact, tiles are laid. In the end, I would like to give a little advice. Despite the fact that the technology provides for one hundred percent “dry” installation, in some cases a self-leveling mixture for bulk floors should be poured over the circuit. So, if the polystyrene heating system is operated in a damp room, a sealed polymer screed will increase the service life of the aluminum reflector and the heat-insulating substrate. This method will be useful and, if necessary, level the floor. Since ceramic tile will be the final coating, inexpensive mixtures can be used - this will save a little.
