How To Fit Flooring Over Underfloor Heating

1. Ensure the Heating System is Properly Installed

Before laying flooring, make sure:

✅ The carbon film is flat with no overlaps or folds.

✅ Electrical connections are insulated and secure.

✅ The floor sensor and thermostat are installed and tested. 

An electrician needs to check the floor sensors and thermostats have been set up accurately and the system should be tested before you fit a laminate, engineered wood floor carpet etc. Otherwise, if something is not correct you will have to lift your floor and start again. A full fitting and installation service is available.

2. Add a Protective Layer (If Required)

• For Floating Floors (Laminate, Engineered Wood, Vinyl, SPC, LVT):

  • Lay a thin protective underlay (PE film ~0.2mm thick) over the heating film. This prevents moisture or mechanical damage.
  • Avoid thick underlays that may block heat transfer.

• For Carpet or Tiles:

  • You’ll need a rigid board layer (e.g., 6mm plywood or cement board) before installing carpet or tiles.
  • For tiles, use Tile effect flooring, special heating mats or self-leveling screed instead of direct carbon film underfloor heating. 
  • Bath-rooms require underfloor heating suitable for use in wet areas.

3. Install the Flooring

• Laminate & Engineered Wood:

  • Use a floating floor method (click-lock or tongue & groove). 
  • Leave an expansion gap around the edges.

• Vinyl, SPC, or LVT Flooring:

  • Check that your vinyl/SPC is compatible with underfloor heating. We can advise.
  • Use a floating method or manufacturer-approved adhesives if needed.

• Carpet or Tiles:

  • For carpets, place a firm underlay (plywood/XPS boards) before installing the carpet.
  • For tiles, either use a recommended tile effect floor for use with the carbon film or our Ecoflex underfloor heating. Then tile on top.

4. Final Checks

✅ Ensure the floor is flat and stable.
✅ Power on the system to check for even heating.
✅ Set the thermostat to a safe temperature. Your fitter should be aware of the recommended temperature for the floor you are useing. If in doubt contact the manufacturer.For most floors, wood or vinyl, the maximum temperature of 27°C is recommended.

If you are unsure what flooring is suitable for use with the underfloor heating we can certainly advice you. Please fill in the quick quote form and we wil get back to you ASAP.