Works with Most Floor Coverings
WBI panels can be used with most floor coverings as long as consideration is given to the R-Value of the floor covering, the required heat output of the system involved and the installation requirements of specific floor covering types.
Radiant Panels & Design Considerations for Floor Coverings
It must be noted that the type and thickness of the floor coverings are one of the most important parameters in the design of radiant heating systems. The insulation rating, R-value, of a covering has a direct impact on heat transfer from the radiant heating panel to the room. A chart of floor covering R-values is included in our installation manual and reproduced below.
The higher the R-value of a floor assembly component, the higher the supply water temperature required to overcome the heat transfer resistance. Particular attention needs to be placed upon carpet and carpet pads as the combined R values can significantly reduce the output of the radiant floor. Always use a low R-value rubber slab carpet pad as a starting point when looking a carpet over Ecowarm RadiantBoard and Thermalboard.
Installation Specifics for Each Floor Covering
Please refer to the flooring types identified in the left column for flooring assembly details, or download our Installation Manual.
