Underfloor heating has become one of the most sought-after features in modern home design. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, installing an underfloor heating system offers unmatched comfort, efficiency, and design freedom. In this guide, we’ll explore the key advantages, installation methods, and cost-benefit comparisons.

What Is Underfloor Heating and How Does It Work?

Underfloor heating is a radiant heating system that warms your home from the floor up. It typically falls into two main categories: hydronic (water-based) underfloor heating and electric underfloor heating. While electric systems are common in smaller areas like bathrooms, hydronic systems are more energy-efficient and better suited for larger spaces or whole-house applications.

In a hydronic system, a network of pipes run beneath the floor. Warm water circulates through these pipes, gently heating the surface above. This radiant heat rises evenly throughout the room, eliminating the cold spots and air drafts associated with traditional heating methods.

Benefits of Hydronic Underfloor Heating

Even Heat Distribution

Hydronic underfloor heating provides consistent warmth across the entire floor. Long gone are the days of huddling near a radiator or worrying about uneven temperature zones.

Energy Efficiency

Hydronic systems operate at lower temperatures (typically 30°C to 50°C) compared to radiators (60°C to 80°C), making them ideal for pairing with heat pumps, natural Gas boilers, or combined with solar power, and other renewable energy sources. This results in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills over time.

Healthier Indoor Air Quality

Traditional forced-air systems can circulate dust, allergens, and bacteria. Since hydronic floor heating doesn’t rely on air movement, it creates a cleaner, healthier living environment—especially beneficial for asthma or allergy sufferers.

Increased Home Value

As more homeowners seek sustainable and efficient solutions, properties with underfloor heating are viewed as premium. Investing in radiant heat can boost your home’s resale appeal.

No Visual Intrusions

Because it’s installed beneath the floor, underfloor heating eliminates the need for visible units like radiators or vents, giving you more design freedom and uncluttered wall space.

Best Flooring for Underfloor Heating

When choosing flooring materials, thermal conductivity is key. The better the material conducts heat, the more efficient your system will be. Here are some of the best options:

• Polished concrete – excellent for thermal mass and heat retention
• Tiles and stone – ideal for even heat transfer
• Engineered timber – compatible with most systems
• Vinyl and laminate – suitable with specific insulation measures

Avoid solid hardwood or thick carpets as they may insulate the heat too much, reducing system performance.

How to Install Hydronic Underfloor Heating

Step 1: Design and Planning

A detailed heat loss analysis and zoning plan ensures the system will efficiently meet the needs of each room.

Step 2: Laying the Insulation

(Optional*) High-quality insulation is installed beneath the pipework to ensure that heat is directed upward into the home rather than lost downward into the slab.

Step 3: Pipe Installation

Durable PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping is laid in precise loops across the floor base, secured to reinforcement mesh or insulation boards.

Step 4: Pouring the Screed

A screed layer is poured over the pipes to encase and protect them while helping to evenly distribute heat across the flooring surface.

Step 5: Heat Source Connection

The system is connected to most commonly a boiler or a heat pump which heats and circulates water through the underfloor loops.

Step 6: Zoning and Controls

Smart thermostats allow you to control individual room temperatures, schedule heating periods, and optimize energy usage throughout the home.

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

For most homeowners, hydronic underfloor heating is the preferred long-term solution, especially when building from scratch or undergoing a major renovation.

Cost of Hydronic Underfloor Heating in Australia

The cost can vary depending on the size of the area, the insulation used, and the complexity of the installation.

Although the upfront cost is higher than conventional heating methods, the long-term savings on energy bills and the comfort delivered often outweigh the investment.

Underfloor Heating and Sustainable Building Practices

As sustainability becomes central to modern construction, hydronic underfloor heating is a natural fit. It works beautifully with:

• Natural Gas Boilers
• Ground source heat pumps combined with solar power
• Energy-efficient building envelopes

These integrations can push your home toward net-zero emissions and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Common Myths About Underfloor Heating

“It only works with tiles.” – False. Many modern systems are compatible with engineered wood, laminate, and even certain types of carpet.

“It takes forever to heat up.” – Not necessarily. While hydronic systems do have a slower warm-up time than electric systems, they retain heat far longer, making them more efficient for continuous use.

“It raises my floor too much.” – Advances in low-profile systems and insulation mean you can keep floor height increases minimal.

Choosing the Right Installer and Supplier

A successful underfloor heating project begins with choosing an experienced supplier. Look for companies that:

• Offer free design consultations
• Provide full installation support
• Use locally certified materials
• Has qualified plumbers
• Specialise in eco-friendly systems

Final Thoughts

Hydronic underfloor heating represents the future of home comfort—quiet, efficient, and virtually invisible. While the upfront costs can be higher than conventional systems, the long-term benefits in comfort, air quality, and energy savings make it a smart investment for Australian homeowners.

Whether you’re heating a single room or an entire home, integrating underfloor heating can elevate your lifestyle while supporting your sustainability goals.

Need Help with Underfloor Heating in Australia?

Contact Eco Building Supplies for expert guidance, competitive pricing, and high-performance underfloor heating solutions designed for Australian homes.