Successfully applying microcement over underfloor heating

More and more people are choosing to install underfloor heating instead of traditional radiators for two main reasons: it provides better thermal comfort and is more economical in the long term. However, the installation of underfloor heating is not compatible with all materials. For example, extreme care must be taken with many types of wood flooring.

Microcement is one of the most suitable building materials for underfloor heating for many reasons. Mainly because it is a continuous coating, does not crack and above all has a good thermal conductivity thanks to its excellent heat resistance. However, for the optimum combination of this decorative covering and underfloor heating, a number of steps need to be rigorously carried out.

How to apply microcement on underfloor heating: step by step

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Our technical team has been advising and resolving doubts to professionals on the application of microcement for almost two decades. One of the most recurrent is precisely about the possibility of installing a radiant microcement floor.

Below, we explain the step-by-step instructions to ensure that the application of microcement on underfloor heating is a complete success. Take note of our advice.

Heating the floor before applying the microcement

Before applying the microcement on the underfloor heating, a heating protocol must be carried out. This will prevent cracks caused by temperature changes in the screed from damaging the microcement.

Turn on the heating at least 4 weeks before laying the microcement.

Hold the inlet water to the circuits at 25ºC for a period of 2 or 3 days.

Gradually increase the temperature of the water until it reaches 45ºC. Keep it this way for several days.

Turn off the heating 48 hours before starting to install the microcement on the underfloor heating. It is very important that the maximum temperature of the floor does not exceed 18ºC.

Application of microcement on underfloor heating

Microcement floors should be laid on cementitious mortars that have reached an advanced setting stage. It takes three to four weeks to reach this optimum stage, a period that can vary depending on the weather. It is essential to check that the mortar is practically dry (maximum 5% humidity).

Switch on the underfloor heating after the installation of microcement

Once the microcement has been correctly applied on the underfloor heating, it is necessary to wait at least 48 hours before turning on the heating again. The following aspects must be taken into account:

The heating should be switched on gradually. The temperature should be raised by 5ºC every day.

Change the temperature in stages at the beginning and end of the use of underfloor heating.

Ensure that the relative humidity of the air in the room is not too low.

Avoid heat build-up due to the use of carpets and rugs, or because there is too little space between the furniture and the underfloor heating.

Advantages of microcement underfloor heating

These are just some of the many benefits of using microcement over underfloor heating:

1. Low consumption

One of the main advantages of microcement over underfloor heating is that it is a low consumption and very efficient system. In other words, the amount of energy needed to reach an optimum temperature is considerably reduced compared to other alternatives. In this way, you will save energy and money during the coldest months of the year.

2. Feeling of thermal comfort

Underfloor heating, thanks to its uniform distribution, helps to achieve that feeling of thermal comfort more quickly, of balance between the temperature of the room and the body temperature of the people in it. A harmony that is enhanced thanks to the microcement floor and its high thermal conductivity.

3. Resistance and thermal conductivity

The outstanding resistance of microcement to heat and its thermal conductivity make this covering one of the most suitable for the installation of underfloor heating.

4. Non-cracking

Closely related to the previous point, if the microcement is applied correctly by the professional, the microcement floor will not crack. This is an aspect to be taken into account as not all floorings are capable of resisting the heat radiated by a radiant floor and end up cracking and cracking. This will not happen if microcement is used over underfloor heating.

5. Continuous tiling

Last but not least, microcement is the continuous cladding par excellence. In this way, the underfloor heating is covered without any visual breaks and therefore offers a pleasant feeling of continuity.

Problems with microcement in underfloor heating

Like any worthy system, there are also a number of disadvantages that should be taken into account to avoid problems with microcement in underfloor heating.

Choosing poor quality microcement

Although microcement is a continuous coating that is highly resistant to heat and should not crack, it is important not to skimp on its quality. The higher the quality, the greater the resistance and therefore the less likely it is that microcement problems will appear in underfloor heating.

Complex installation

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The process of applying microcement to the floor does not change in the case of underfloor heating. However, not following the ignition protocol to the letter would be a problem. That is why it is so important to complete the steps

Microcementos Topciment, the best option for underfloor heating

The high performance of our coatings has led us to become leaders in the manufacture of microcement in Spain. Microcements with unbeatable technical characteristics and perfect for underfloor heating.

If after reading this article you still have doubts about the installation of underfloor heating or want to know what type of microcement is the most suitable, please contact us We look forward to helping you.