So, you've decided to build a new home from scratch. Instead of inheriting home components picked by a builder or previous homeowner, you'll be able to choose them to suit your family's needs. One of the most important decisions you'll make will be your heating system. There are lots of systems to choose from, and you'll want to pick one that suits your family's lifestyle. This guide will help you decide whether under floor heating should be on heating system shortlist.

Why Should You Consider Underfloor Heating?

Floor-based heating systems have many benefits. If you desire clean lines and more wall space, this could be the ideal system for you. There is little to no maintenance with this type of heating—once it's laid, you can relax and get on with living in your fab new home. If economic energy performance is high on your requirement list, this system provides efficient, evenly distributed heat. It operates at a lower temperature to radiators which can mean a reduction in heating bills if you install it correctly. If you have asthmatics in your home, you'll find this system reduces airborne dust, creating a cleaner environment for you and your family. 

How Important Is Insulation with Underfloor Heating?

Insulation is necessary regardless of the heating system you choose. If your home is poorly insulated, you won't reap the financial benefits that this type of system can give you. You may already be thinking about wall and roof insulation, but you also need to think about the base of your house—you want to be heating the rooms and not the earth below. If you opt for this type of heating, speak to your builder about insulating the base of your home so that the system works to its full potential, giving you maximum benefits.

What Flooring Works Best for Underfloor Heating?

Whether you choose a wet or dry underfloor heating system, you'll need to lay flooring with good heat transferability. You can use wood and carpeting with underfloor heating, but the best options are well-conducted materials like tiles, slate, terracotta or natural stone. You may have concerns about using hard materials that you feel will be cold underfoot, but under-tile heating will compensate for the natural coldness of the materials. An added benefit to hard flooring is the lack of trapped dust and the easier cleaning. This makes them the perfect solution for allergy sufferers and those on a busy schedule. Remember, you'll need to check the wattage of the system you install to ensure it's matched to your flooring choice.