Installing Radiant Heat in concrete slab and foundation

To heat the concrete floor, use the high thermal mass of the slab or concrete floor by storing the heat in the ground and having it act as a large heating panel to heat the interior space above. and provide a comfortable living environment for the occupants. Unlike conventional heating systems, which tend to be localized and cause hot spots, drafts and cold areas, all the warm floor space above the radiator is ideal for polished finishes such as concrete floors.

The concrete slab is heated by electrical elements or coatings. Hot-circulating water pipes (called hydronic systems) in the slab or concrete liner are heated.
Low house heating rates can also generate considerable savings for the homeowner if the energy source is electricity for either type of system. Ideally, the use of concrete floors for heating is better suited to the solid construction of buildings where the exterior and interior walls also have a high thermal mass (eg concrete panels, bricks or wall blocks). These materials, as well as concrete, act as a heat accumulator or a heat storage tank. The approach may be less satisfactory, lighter in clad brick buildings, provided adequate risk isolation is considered.

Heating and Radiant Concrete Floor Thanks to its efficiency, it is able to create comfortable living conditions at a lower air temperature than conventional heating systems. It is one of the simple forms of space heating, providing a uniform and discreet heat.