30 May, 2026

How does underfloor heating work?

L'Entrepôt de la Réno Published on May 30, 2026

5 min read

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When it’s -25 °C outside in the middle of a Quebec January, having warm feet inside your home is far from a luxury. Radiant floor heating, also called underfloor heating, is gaining popularity in Quebec for a good reason: it offers thermal comfort that electric baseboards struggle to match. But how exactly does it work? And is it right for you? This article explains everything you need to know.

Key Points to Remember

A radiant floor distributes heat from the floor upwards, unlike baseboards that heat the air higher up.
There are two types: electric (heating cables) and hydronic (hot water pipes).
The system works by thermal inertia: stable, even heat without drafts.
Electric floors are the best choice for renovations.
A programmable thermostat is essential to control energy consumption.

How Does Radiant Floor Heating Work, Exactly?

A radiant floor heating system is a heating system installed directly under the floor surface. Heating elements, either electric cables or hot water pipes, are laid beneath the floor covering. The heat rises from the floor to the ceiling, which warm the feet first, then the rest of the body. This is the opposite of electric baseboards, which heat the air by convection and create temperature differences in the room.

The operation relies on thermal inertia: the slab or cement screed covering the cables stores heat and slowly redistributes it throughout the room. The temperature remains stable over time, without spikes or drops, and without air circulation noise.

What Are the Two Types of Radiant Floor Heating?

Radiant floors are divided into two categories: electric and hydronic. The electric system consists of heating cables laid under the floor covering, connected to the existing electrical system. The hydronic system circulates hot water through pipes embedded in the slab, supplied by a boiler or heat pump.

Type	How It Works	Common Uses
Electric	Cables under the floor covering	Renovations, small areas, bathrooms
Hydronic	Hot water pipes in the slab	New construction, large areas

The hydronic system operates at low temperature: water in the pipes is heated between 30 and 45 °C, which keeps the floor surface around 28 °C maximum, according to the parameters set by the Hydronic Heating System Installation Code (CSA B214) — ensuring comfort without overheating.

Which Floor Coverings Work with Radiant Floor Heating?

Not all floor coverings respond the same way to the diffuse heat of a radiant floor. Ceramic tile and natural stone are the best choices: they conduct heat well and release it efficiently. Vinyl (SPC) also performs very well.

Solid hardwood flooring and carpet are not recommended. They slow heat diffusion and can warp with temperature changes. Some engineered or laminated hardwood floors are approved for use with radiant heating, but check the manufacturer’s specifications before combining the two products.

When to Consider Radiant Floor Heating?

The basement is often where the effect is most noticeable. Concrete slabs are naturally cold, and radiant floor heating transforms an uninviting space into a year-round living area. The entryway and foyer are also popular choices: a warm floor that helps dry boots and coats is a very practical advantage in a Quebec home.

The bathroom remains the most classic application. Small area, quick installation, immediate comfort. It’s an element that can easily add value to your property when reselling.

What to plan before getting started

What to Plan Before Getting Started

Some elements should be checked before purchase. Insulation under the system is non-negotiable: without it, heat dissipates downward instead of upward. Floor covering compatibility must also be confirmed before ordering anything.

A programmable thermostat is highly recommended: it regulates consumption and adapts heating periods to your habits. In renovations, adding cables can slightly raise the floor level, so check if doors will need adjustment before starting work.

What to Do Now

Identify the targeted room: basement, bathroom, entryway, or the whole house? The type of project directly determines the system to choose.
Calculate the area to cover to specify the required power and simplify product selection.
Choose your floor covering at the same time as the heating system, as some materials must be confirmed before purchase.
Consult a store advisor to avoid the most common installation mistakes.

Last Thing to Know Before Buying

A well-installed radiant floor lasts for decades with very little maintenance. Electric systems require almost none once installed. Hydronic systems need occasional checks of the water circuit.

If you have questions about your project, our team is here to help you choose the right system for your home and budget.

Contact us for personalized advice on your project.

Is electric radiant floor heating suitable for all rooms?

Yes, it can be installed in almost any room: bathroom, kitchen, basement, entryway. It is especially easy to install in renovations under tile or vinyl. Just check the compatibility of the chosen floor covering before purchase. Ideal for small to medium-sized areas.

How long does it take for radiant floor heating to warm a room?

Radiant floor heating warms up more slowly than a radiator. Expect 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the system and slab thickness. A programmable thermostat allows you to anticipate heating periods and avoid waiting for the room to reach a comfortable temperature.

Does radiant floor heating consume a lot of electricity?

No, not necessarily. Operating at low temperature, it is generally more energy-efficient than baseboards for equivalent comfort. Consumption mainly depends on the area, insulation, and thermostat settings. A programmable thermostat significantly reduces the energy bill.

Can radiant floor heating fully replace the main heating system?

In a well-insulated house, yes. In an older or poorly insulated building, it will rather be an excellent supplementary heating source. The answer depends on the covered area, insulation level, and winter temperatures in your region. An advisor can help you assess your situation.