Concrete Slab Radiant Floor Heating Layout

Copper within con crete is highly susceptible to corrosion and a lifespan of 50 years for a radiant floor was considered exceptional.

Concrete slab radiant floor heating layout.

Many radiant floors most using copper tubing buried within concrete slabs were installed and used success fully in the 1960 s and 70 s. The system works via pex pipe a small pump a water heater and a thermostat. From a radiant heating perspective it doesn t matter if the slab is actually at grade or is poured several feet below grade as part of a full foundation. The workers in the photograph at page top where our concrete slab.

But they all suffered from one primary problem longevity. This size is adequate for all small to medium size jobs both in residential and commercial projects. 1 2 oxygen barrier pex is the most popular size used for radiant floor heating in both thick and thin slabs. Check out our video how to install radiant floor heat tubing in a slab on grade and read this page for a full description.

Slab insulation methods calculating heat loss tubing options system options and much more all written in easy to understand language for the homeowner with pictures and diagrams. 5 8 barrier pex can be used for larger projects where high btu load is present due to lack of proper insulation larger than normal slab thickness or special project considerations. While it was done as a new house was being built in my last house i poured a concrete floor on top of a wood framed floor system and could have put radiant heat in that as well. If you are new to radiant heat our design and construction manual is a must read this manual provides a wealth of general information about radiant heat.