Ready to give your home a cozy winter touch? Learn more about the pros and cons of installing hardwood floors vs. in-floor heating from Arden Tile, Vernon’s leading flooring experts.
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October 08, 2023 – 8:00 AM
As winter approaches, many homeowners in the Okanagan begin to consider renovations to make their home more comfortable during the colder months. Two popular options to consider are in-floor heating and hardwood flooring. Both offer a warm and cozy feel to your home, but they differ in terms of cost, maintenance, and practicality.
In-Floor Heating
In-floor heating, also known as radiant heating, is a popular option for homeowners who are looking for a clean and quiet way to heat their homes. The system is installed under the floor, and it works by using a series of hot water pipes or electric cables to warm up the surface of the floor. In-floor heating provides even and consistent heat throughout the room, and it can be controlled independently from your main heating system.
Pros:
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Provides even, consistent heat throughout the room -
Clean and quiet -
Can be controlled independently from your main heating system
Cons:
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Expensive to install -
Limited to certain types of flooring -
Difficult to repair or replace if damaged
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a classic option that never goes out of style. It is warm, inviting, and easy to maintain. Hardwood floors can be installed in any room of the house, and they come in a variety of colours and finishes to match your interior design style.
Pros:
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Adds warmth appeal and character to your home -
Easy to maintain -
Can be sanded and refinished if damaged
Cons:
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Not as efficient at retaining heat as in-floor heating -
Can be noisy -
Prone to water damage
Can I install in-floor heating under hardwood floors?
Yes. Electric underfloor heating systems are a fantastic way to keep your home warm and comfortable, and they work especially well when paired with hardwood floors. With their ability to conduct and retain heat, hardwood floors allow the warming effects of the underfloor heating system to radiate throughout the entire room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. In addition, the unique properties of wood mean that it heats up quickly while also resisting the loss of heat, making it an excellent choice for maximizing the energy efficiency of your heating system. Whether you’re looking to update your home’s heating system or simply want to enhance the beauty of your floors, the combination of hardwood and electric underfloor heating is a winning choice.
Which option is right for you?
When deciding between in-floor heating and hardwood floors, there are several factors to consider.
Budget: In-floor heating is generally more expensive to install, but more cost-effective in the long run due to the energy efficiency. Hardwood floors are a more affordable option.
Practicality: In-floor heating is best suited for spaces where you spend a lot of time, such as the living room, kitchen, or bathroom. Hardwood floors can be installed in any room, but may not be the best choice for areas prone to moisture such as the bathroom.
Maintenance: Hardwood floors are easy to clean and can be sanded and refinished if they are damaged. In-floor heating requires little maintenance but can be difficult to repair if damaged.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose in-floor heating or hardwood floors, both options provide warmth and comfort during the cold winter months. Consider your budget, practicality, and maintenance needs before making a decision. With the right choice, you’ll be able to cozy up with your loved ones and enjoy your beautiful home.
All in all, both in-floor heating and hardwood floors offer benefits as well as drawbacks. It all comes down to what you are willing to spend, the practicality of the flooring, and how much maintenance you are willing to perform. Either way, both options promise to bring a warm and cozy touch to your home that you can enjoy during the chillier seasons. Consider the flooring options we’ve provided and take the time to find what works best for you. In the end, you will find the perfect solution for your home’s heating and flooring this winter.
Arden Tile – Your Flooring Specialists
Call Arden Tile in Vernon to discuss options for your new floors. They offer an extensive selection of tile, hardwood and vinyl flooring, mosaics, and stone in their showroom.