can you install hard wood flooring over radiant heat source?

1. 49

   sofa sitterposted 14 years ago

   can you install hard wood flooring over radiant heat source?
   
   or can engineered be  used, and if so would maple be a good choice?

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2. 60

   hikenjewposted 14 years ago

   Hello, True hard wood flooring would not be ideal. With most floor heating elements they require a mortar set be applied over them to both set the elements, and level the surface. Nailing through this would be not recommended. However, if you are using an engineered floor set( snap-together ) you can have the look of hardwood and warm feet. Take your time and double check your work. once the heating elements are installed, going back is hard work. Good luck!

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3. 58

   hometipsposted 14 years ago

   I won't recommend radiant heat over hardwood floors. This is not recommended by most home improvement experts considering the possible damage due to heat. You can read more about hardwood floors here: http://hubpages.com/hub/Hardwood-Floors … d-Flooring     and Radiant Floor Heating Here: http://hubpages.com/hub/Radiant_Floor_Heating

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4. 60

   frankpenneaposted 14 years ago

   NO it can be physically done but the heat source under the slab will over heat the wood and when the heat is off and the wood cools down,the expansion and contraction will cause the wood to buckle and crack and in some cases lift off the slab altogether

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5. 61

   ECDDanposted 14 years ago

   Sofa sitter, the answer you have been getting is accurate for most situations HOWEVER it completely depends on the system!
   We have utilized a low voltage system that is a conductive polymer. This is the BEST system and can be used in ANY circumstances unlike conventional hydronic or other electrical systems.

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6. 60

   bodycountposted 14 years ago

   Yes but depends on Flooring and System
   One example picture on my hub
   
   http://hubpages.com/hub/My-Hardwood-Flooring-stories
   
   TeakDreams

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