Fixington

Underfloor Heating Installation

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Underfloor heating installation is the process of fitting a heating system beneath your floor surface, providing a warm and even heat source throughout your home. Unlike traditional radiators, underfloor heating gently warms up from the ground upwards, creating a comfortable environment with less visible equipment.

This job is typically needed when building a new home, refurbishing an existing one, or upgrading an old heating system. It’s particularly popular in rooms where you want cosy warmth underfoot, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or conservatories. It can also improve energy efficiency by operating at lower temperatures compared to radiators.

🔧 What the job involves

Underfloor heating systems come in two main types:

  • Electric systems: consist of mats or cables that heat up when powered.
  • Wet systems: use warm water circulated through pipes laid under the floor.

Installing underfloor heating usually requires the removal or adjustment of the existing floor covering. The tradesperson will lay insulation boards to prevent heat loss, fix the heating elements or pipes, test the system, then cover it with screed (a type of floor levelling compound) and the final floor finish (tiles, wood, laminate, etc.).

The heating engineer ensures the system connects correctly to your boiler or electrical supply, complies with UK Building Regulations, and is safe for everyday use. Proper planning and professional installation are essential for efficiency and longevity.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a reputable heating engineer or installer to discuss your needs and arrange a site survey.
  2. Survey and quote: The engineer visits your property, inspects the rooms, considers floor type, insulation, and system choice, and provides a detailed quote.
  3. Booking the installation: Agree on a start date and confirm any preparations needed (e.g., clearing the room).
  4. Day of installation: The team arrives, removes existing floor coverings if necessary, installs insulation and heating elements, connects plumbing or electricity, tests the system, and applies screed or suitable floor finish.
  5. Curing and drying: Screed or adhesive needs time to dry fully before using the heating. This may take days to weeks depending on the material.
  6. System commissioning: The installer shows you how to use and programme the system.
  7. Documentation and certification: You receive warranties, user manuals, and any certificates confirming compliance with regulations (e.g. Building Regulations Part L).

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Heating engineer installation, including preparation and finishing work.
  • Materials and parts: Heating mats or pipework, insulation boards, screed, control units (thermostats, wiring).
  • Disposal: Removing and disposing of old flooring or materials.
  • Certification: Costs for Building Regulations compliance certificates or Part P notification if applicable.
  • Additional costs: Floor lifting, modification of existing plumbing or electrical systems, specialist floor finishes, aftercare services.

Example itemisation for a single room (approx. 15 m²):

  • Materials: £600–£1,000
  • Labour: £800–£1,200
  • Screeding and floor finishes: £300–£500
  • Certification: £100–£200
  • Disposal: £100

📊 What affects the price

  • Room size and number of rooms to be heated.
  • Type of system: electric tends to be cheaper and simpler; wet systems are more complex but often more efficient long-term.
  • Floor construction: solid concrete floors are easier, suspended timber floors often require more work.
  • Access and existing floor removal: difficult access or multiple layers add time and cost.
  • Building Regulations requirements: tighter regulations on energy efficiency might require upgrades.
  • Existing boiler compatibility: older boilers may need upgrading or controls modification.
  • Timing: rush jobs or installations during busy periods may cost more.
  • Need for additional work: like rewiring, plumbing changes, or floor re-levelling.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Electric system installation on one floor: 1–2 days.
  • Wet system installation (including pipework and screed): 3–5 days.
  • Curing/drying time for screed: 1–3 weeks depending on thickness and ventilation.
  • Complex or multiple room installations: can extend timeframes to over a week or more.

A straightforward electric mat installation on a tiled floor in one room might be done within 24 hours, while a full wet system across a ground floor requires careful scheduling and drying time.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While small electric underfloor heating kits are available for DIY enthusiasts, professional installation is strongly recommended due to:

  • Health and safety risks in handling electrical and plumbing work.
  • The need to comply with UK Building Regulations, including Part P for electrical work.
  • Ensuring correct insulation, controls, and waterproofing to avoid future damage.
  • Complex systems (wet underfloor heating) require specialist skills and pressure-testing.

If you decide to DIY, follow installation instructions precisely and obtain professional certification where necessary.

💰 Typical UK price range

For a typical underfloor heating installation in the UK:

  • Electric system: £50 to £80 per m²
  • Wet system: £70 to £130 per m²

For example, a 15 m² bathroom with electric heating might cost around £750 to £1,200 all in. Larger or more complex wet systems could rise to £2,000 or more.

All prices usually include VAT at 20%, but confirm with your installer before booking.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Clear the room completely before the installation day.
  • Discuss floor finish compatibility with your installer (some floor types work better than others).
  • If screed is involved, plan for drying time and avoid using the room until it’s ready.
  • Keep all paperwork, warranties, and certificates safe for future reference or home sales.
  • Ask about aftercare and maintenance schedules to keep your system running efficiently.
  • Always hire a Gas Safe-registered engineer for boiler-related work and a qualified electrician for electrical connections.
  • Check whether your installation requires notification to your local Building Control department or Part P certification.

Underfloor heating can add comfort and value to your home, but it needs proper planning and professional expertise to deliver the best results.