When applying flooring with underfloor heating, the choice of suitable wood and the thickness of the screed above the serpentine pipes are crucial. Iroko, Teak, Merbau, Afrormosia, and Doussie are appropriate wood species, while Oak is moderately suitable. Hardwoods like Wenge and Sucupira carry risks; if used, they should be finished with oil and applied in a floating system.
Using laminate flooring is more effective in underfloor heating systems compared to solid wood flooring. Since solid wood flooring consists of a single layer, it is more prone to movement when directly in contact with heat. Thus, using laminate flooring is a better option. However, even when using laminate flooring, there are important considerations:
1. The chosen wood species must be suitable for underfloor heating systems.
2. The substructure of the laminate flooring must be appropriate.
3. The surface where the flooring will be installed must also be suitable.
In underfloor heating systems, the materials beneath the screed must maintain specific distances from the screed. The screed should be poured to an average thickness of about 5 cm (minimum 3.5-4 cm) over the tangent section of the serpentine pipes. The dosage should be around 300 or higher and must not fall below 250. The upper surface should be finished with a steel trowel. The screed begins to set 21 days after pouring, and the drying time for a screed of approximately 4-5 cm thickness is 30-45 days, depending on the season.
Before flooring installation, the serpentine system should be tested with pressurized water and heated for 2-3 days without exceeding a temperature of 50-55 degrees. The system should be turned off 48 hours prior to installation to allow the screed to cool. In systems that are operated before the curing period is over, a condition known as "screed burning," which is caused by low dosage, may occur, leading to a sandy surface. Flooring should not be installed on surfaces that have experienced sandiness. After the application, the temperature needs to be gradually increased. The temperature felt on the flooring should be around 28 degrees.
Underfloor heating users bear significant responsibility. For both human health and the longevity of wooden materials, the system should never operate above 55°C.
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