The question of whether a wooden floor can be combined with underfloor heating is a frequently asked one. Fortunately, the answer is: absolutely yes! Wooden floors are perfectly compatible with all types of underfloor heating and cooling systems, both in new constructions and renovations. This combination offers numerous benefits in terms of comfort, sustainability, and energy efficiency.
The role of underfloor heating and heat pumps
In Belgium and the Netherlands, a staggering 90% of new buildings use underfloor heating and cooling systems, often linked to heat pumps. These systems provide heating in winter and passive cooling in summer. Passive cooling means the pipes under the floor can cool the space without condensation, which is beneficial as it prevents traditional issues like moisture buildup. This technology is popular due to its energy efficiency and the comfort it provides.
In warmer climates, such as Spain, passive cooling can be combined with active cooling, like traditional air conditioning. For active cooling, a separate condensation drain is installed to dispose of excess moisture, which is necessary for an effectively functioning air conditioning system.
Why choose a wooden floor?
A wooden floor is an excellent choice when it comes to sustainability. Wood is a natural product that absorbs and stores CO2 from the atmosphere. A cubic meter of wood can store about one ton of CO2, which remains stored as long as the wood does not decay or burn. This makes wooden floors much more environmentally friendly than alternatives like PVC or tiles, which have more energy-intensive production processes.
Besides being environmentally friendly, wood also offers the potential to last a lifetime. If, over time, you want a change, a wooden floor can be easily refinished with a new coat of lacquer or oil, giving it a fresh, new look without replacing the floor.
Lower Energy Costs
Wooden floors have insulating properties, meaning they quickly absorb and retain heat for longer periods. This results in lower heating costs, even in well-insulated homes. Because the floor remains comfortably warm, the thermostat needs to be activated less frequently, making the home more energy-efficient. This comfort goes hand in hand with underfloor heating, which distributes heat evenly throughout the space, ensuring no cold feet.
Oak Wood Floors and Thermal Resistance
At Di Legno, we exclusively use French oak wood, as it is an excellent choice for use with underfloor heating. Oak has a low thermal resistance (Rc value), usually less than 0.09 [m²K/W], allowing it to conduct heat efficiently. Additionally, oak offers numerous processing options, such as brushing, aging, and scraping, allowing you to fully personalize the floor according to your preferences. This versatility enables an oak floor to perfectly complement any interior style and offers a timeless look.
Points of attention
When installing a wooden floor, there are a few important factors to consider. In winter, indoor air can become drier due to the heating system. Low humidity can cause issues, such as cracks in the floor. It is, therefore, essential to maintain indoor humidity levels between 50 and 65% using a humidifier.
Furthermore, it’s important to follow a heating protocol when installing a new floor. This protocol helps detect any issues in the heating system and ensures that construction moisture is removed from the subfloor. Proper temperature control is crucial here; the surface temperature of the floor should not exceed 28°C.
Conclusion
An oak wood floor combined with underfloor heating provides a sustainable, comfortable, and energy-efficient solution for any interior. The natural look of oak, combined with modern heating systems, creates a warm and cozy atmosphere while keeping the ecological footprint minimal. For more information and advice on our floors and your underfloor heating, contact a Di Legno expert who can assist you in making the best choice.
Choose consciously and enjoy the benefits of an oak wood floor!
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