Is timber flooring suitable for use over underfloor heating?
Yes. However this type of heating can be expected to subject the timber to a wider range of temperature and relative humilities throughout the year, which can result in relatively high level of movement in the flooring.
Therefore, as well as ensuring that the moisture content of the flooring is at an appropriate level at the time of installation, the selection of species should be limited to those classified as being of‘ small' movement e.g. iroko, teak, makore and opepe, and the width of the boards should preferably not exceed 75mm maximum. This width recommendation is made in order to minimise the initial impact of any gaps between boards which appear as a result of movement. If medium movement timbers such as oak or maple are to be used, the specification of a board width of less than 75mm is recommended, if wider boards are desired, then an engineered, composite timber flooring product should be considered.
Further information can be found in the publications listed below.
TRADA also provides a range of services for building designers, product manufacters and end users of timber flooring, including the design, specification or inspections of timber flooring, for more information please follow this link
Decorative Timber Flooring.
Outlines the types of decorative flooring available ie solid timber and multi-layer or engineered types. It discusses the timber properties required, suitable species and the all-important considerations of environmental conditions and moisture content. Finally, floor construction, laying and finishing seals are considered.
Sealing timber floors: A best practice guide
Deals with seal types and the selection, floor preparation, schedule specification and application of seals. Identifies common faults and their prevention. Covers polishing and maintenance and measures which can be adopted to avoid wear. Refurbishment and stripping of existing floors is also covered.
Seals for timber floors: A specification guide
Provides objective guidance on commercially available seals. Thirty products were subjected to a programme of laboratory tests, each dealing with a different performance criterion. A list of 'top ten' products for each of the tests allows users to select products that best meet the demands created by particular end-use environments. Describes the test methods used and explains how to use the guide through worked examples.
