Stay Warm This Winter: A Complete Guide to Underfloor Heating and Flooring Compatibility

Melbourne winters can be cold, especially in older homes that weren’t designed with modern heating systems in mind. One of the most effective and comfortable solutions is underfloor heating, which not only improves warmth but also increases energy efficiency and frees up wall space by eliminating bulky heaters.

But before you install underfloor heating, it’s important to understand your options — and how it affects your flooring choices. At Elite Wooden Floors (EWF), we regularly help customers choose the right flooring systems compatible with both hydronic and electric underfloor heating.

🔥 What Is Underfloor Heating?

Underfloor heating is a system installed beneath your flooring that radiates heat upward, warming the room from the ground up. It creates even, consistent warmth and eliminates cold spots. There are two main types: hydronic and electric.

🆚 Hydronic vs Electric Underfloor Heating: Which Should You Choose?

🔵 Hydronic Underfloor Heating

How it works: Warm water flows through pipes beneath the floor, heated by a gas boiler or heat pump.

Best for:
✔️ New builds or full renovations, where there is access to the subfloor and slab structure.
✔️ Large areas or whole-home heating.

Pros:

• Lower running costs over time.

• Works very well with engineered timber and tile flooring.

• Comfortable and consistent radiant heat.

• Can integrate with solar hot water systems.

Cons:

• Higher upfront installation cost.

• Requires plumbing and coordination during construction.

• Not practical for light or partial renovations.

💡 EWF Tip:
If you are building a new home or doing a full renovation, hydronic heating is the ideal solution. It’s energy-efficient and provides long-term comfort when properly installed.

🔴 Electric Underfloor Heating

How it works: Thin electric heating cables or mats are installed beneath the flooring surface.

Best for:
✔️ Renovations and retrofitting in existing homes, especially for rooms like bathrooms or kitchens.

Pros:

• Lower initial installation cost.

• Easier and faster to install — no plumbing required.

• Heats up quickly and is easy to control.

Cons:

• Higher operating costs over time (electricity use).

• Many flooring manufacturers require:

  • 🔸 A gradual warm-up phase – increasing no more than 1°C per day during startup.

  • 🔸 Maximum surface temperature of 26–27°C to maintain warranty.

• Not ideal for heating large open spaces.

💡 EWF Tip:
Electric systems are perfect for renovated bathrooms, bedrooms, or living areas where quick installation is needed without disrupting the subfloor.

✅ Choosing the Right Flooring for Underfloor Heating

Not all flooring is compatible with underfloor heating — and using the wrong product or installation method could void your warranty. Here’s a breakdown of suitable options:

1. Engineered Oak Flooring

• Approved for glue-down installation over hydronic heating by many manufacturers.

• Only a few manufacturers allow glue-down installation over electric heating due to rapid heat changes.

• Can be floated with electric heating if a heat-rated underlay is used.

• Always follow surface temperature and expansion gap requirements.

2. Hybrid Flooring (e.g., EWF Style / 7.5mm Hybrid)

• Highly stable and moisture-resistant.

• Many ranges are approved for floating installation over both hydronic and electric heating.

• Use only underlays rated for underfloor systems.

• Check each brand’s spec sheet before installation.

3. Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP)

• Compatible with both hydronic and electric heating systems.

• Efficient heat transfer due to thin profile.

• Glue-down or floating installation allowed (check manufacturer guidelines).

4. Carpet Flooring

• Suitable for both types of underfloor heating.

• Low-pile carpets work best for heat flow.

• Ensure both the carpet and underlay are rated for use with underfloor heating.

🔨 Installation Methods: Floating vs Glue-Down

Both floating and glue-down methods can be used with underfloor heating — but each has unique requirements.

Floating Floor Installation:

• The floor "floats" above the subfloor using an underlay.

• Easier to install and replace.

• Requires an underlay compatible with heating systems.

• Common with hybrid and vinyl products.

Glue-Down Installation:

• Flooring is fixed directly to the subfloor with adhesive.

• Provides better thermal conductivity and a more solid feel.

• Often required for engineered timber over hydronic heating.

• Must use heat-rated, flexible adhesives.

🤝 EWF + Coldbuster: Helping You Find the Right Heating Solution

At Elite Wooden Floors, we don’t just sell flooring — we help you create comfortable, well-designed living spaces. That’s why we’ve partnered with Coldbuster, a leading electric underfloor heating provider in Australia.

We can:

• Help you estimate the cost of installing electric underfloor heating in your home.

• Recommend the right flooring system for your project — whether it's new construction or renovation.

• Ensure your installation complies with manufacturer guidelines, protecting your warranty.

📞 Let’s Build a Better Home — Together

Whether you’re planning a new build or upgrading an older home, underfloor heating paired with the right flooring can transform your living space. If you have any questions, contact our expert team or visit our showroom at 706 Burke Road, Camberwell.

We’re here to help you stay warm, stay stylish, and stay confident in your investment.

Elite Wooden Floors – Warmth. Style. Peace of Mind.