Underfloor heating has many benefits but a common question that comes up is whether you can still use a rug. The simple answer is yes. However, there are a few things to consider before going out and buying that perfect rug:
Tog Rating:
Your rug’s tog rating should ideally be between 1 and 2, and should not exceed 2.5. The lower the tog rating, the better. Ideally, underfloor heating rugs should be no thicker than 25mm.
Your rug should have low thermal resistance, allowing the heat to easily radiate into the rug and therefore radiate more easily into the room.
Rug Material:
We recommend going for rugs made from natural fibres, such as wool or cotton with a hessian back, as they tend to be better conductors of heat and allow for efficient heat transfer from the underfloor heating system to the room. Synthetic rugs, like polyester or nylon, may act as insulators and hinder heat distribution.
Rug Thickness:
Thinner rugs are generally more suitable for use with underfloor heating systems. Thicker rugs can act as a barrier, reducing heat transfer and potentially affecting the overall efficiency of the underfloor heating.
Heat Output:
It's essential to consider the heat output of your underfloor heating system. Higher heat output systems, such as water-based underfloor heating, can better accommodate rugs without compromising their efficiency.
Safety Considerations:
Always ensure that the rug you choose is fire-retardant and meets the necessary safety standards. Avoid placing rugs over floor heating vents or covering the entire floor surface, as this can lead to overheating or damage to the flooring material.
Floor Damage:
Before deciding on buying your new rug, check the maximum temperature restriction of your flooring. If the maximum temperature is exceeded then this can cause serious problems. For example, on wooden floor, a rug can trap the heat coming from your underfloor heating system thus pushing the temperature beyond your floors maximum temperature in that area. These hot spots can cause the floor to warp and twist. We always recommend speaking to your rug supplier before deciding on what rug you are using. A little tip from us, a good rug supplier should be asking you what underfloor heating system you have and what floor finish you have.
Best practices for choosing your rug:
Choose the Right Rug Size: Opt for rugs that allow a sufficient gap around the edges to promote heat circulation. This will prevent the rug from acting as a barrier to heat transfer.
Test the Heat Output: Before placing a rug over underfloor heating, it's advisable to run the system for a few days to ensure the heat output is suitable. Measure the surface temperature of the floor and consult with the professional installer if you have any concerns.
Use Rug Underlays: Consider using rug underlays or thermal underlays specifically designed for underfloor heating. These products can enhance heat transfer and provide extra insulation
We hope this guide helped, but if you have any more questions please contact our friendly team today.
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