What pipes for the warm floor to choose – characteristics, rating in February 2025

A warm floor system’s pipe selection is essential to the long-term stability of your house and effective heating. Homeowners now have a range of options to choose from when it comes to choosing the best pipes thanks to developments in technology and materials. We’ll examine the traits and attributes of several pipe types for warm floor systems in this post, giving you the knowledge you need to choose wisely for your insulation and heating requirements.

One of the most important choices you’ll have to make regarding warm floor systems is what kind of pipe to use. Generally, there are two primary options to consider: polybutylene (PB) and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes. Before choosing, it is crucial to comprehend the advantages and factors to be taken into account for each type as they each have different qualities.

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are becoming more and more well-liked because of their adaptability, toughness, and simplicity of installation. These pipes are perfect for long-term use in warm floor systems because they are resistant to scale accumulation and corrosion. PEX pipes also have the ability to tolerate high pressures and temperatures, guaranteeing dependable performance even under extreme circumstances.

Conversely, for a long time, warm floor systems have traditionally used polybutylene (PB) pipes. PB pipes have their own advantages over PEX pipes, such as affordability and simplicity of installation, even though PEX pipes are currently more widely used. However, PB pipes may be more vulnerable to UV ray damage and certain chemical damage, so the environment in which they will be installed must be carefully considered.

As we examine each type of pipe’s features in more detail, we’ll also rank them according to how well they work and how appropriate they are for warm floor systems as of February 2024. Considerations for this rating include overall cost-effectiveness, compatibility with heating systems, simplicity of installation, and durability. You will be in a better position to make an informed choice that satisfies your insulation and heating needs if you are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of pipe and take our rating into account.

Pipe characteristics for water warm floor

Building a water-warm floor is a difficult and time-consuming procedure, particularly when employing a concrete screed and strengthening the framework. As a result, the pipes that are supposed to be inserted into the "pie" are substantial necessities.

Crucial! The use of PVC standard water pipes is prohibited.

Due to their inability to tolerate high loads resulting from elevated temperatures and pressure within the pipeline.

Durability and tightness are the primary requirements for the warm water floor pipeline highway in both private homes and apartments. It is imperative that the system does not occur when there is a significant temperature difference.

Because it is challenging to locate and remove the flaw when there is a screed present. It also needs to be able to resist mechanical loads and aggressive chemical compounds found in coolant. The contour’s elasticity is important because it should be easily pliable.

When selecting a serpentine for water-type warm floors, we must keep in mind its degree of thermal conductivity; the higher this coefficient, the more effectively the device operates. Furthermore, it is deemed acceptable for there to be an expansion of up to 0.25 mm/MK during heating.

Pipes are made in bays that have a specific meter. It’s important to keep in mind that loops should be complete and disconnected when acquiring.

Just so you know! A marking permitting the use of the pipeline for heating water floors must be present on the pipeline.

What pipes are suitable for warm floor?

Strength and cost are influenced by the features and characteristics of the materials used to create the contours. Every model has advantages and disadvantages.

Polymer

Polymer is a widely used material that is used to make a variety of water heating floor pipes. Because of its chemical neutrality, it can withstand temperatures as high as +95 degrees.

Just so you know! Pn 10 marking is applied to polymer pipes intended for submersion in water-heated floors. The maximum temperature for such a pipeline, if available, is 55 degrees.

Polymer pipes are available in various types:

1. From stitched polyethylene – a new type of polyethylene, in it the molecules are interconnected. As a result, the material is obtained with a stable structure, and with improved quality characteristics.

Think about its characteristics:

• not subject to corrosion and the action of chemicals;
• elastic – pipes from it are flexible, and are easily bend at any angle, without the use of special equipment;
• has increased resistance to sharp temperature changes;
• The products have a small coefficient of roughness inside – this reduces the hydraulic resistance.

Just so you know! Stitched polyethylene coils have structural memory, which allows them to return to their original shape when heated.

There are various ways to produce this pipeline, depending on the stitching technology used:

• PEX-A-peroxidal stitching, is heated by polyethylene under increased pressure in the presence of peroxides, the material obtained is durable and elastic, it is able to withstand heating up to 95 degrees;
• PEX-B-stitching is carried out according to silanical technology, it is exposed to chemicals, more often a sod, which gives resistance to oxidation, and makes it stiff;
• PEX-C-the finished product is irradiated by electrons, little is used in the Russian market;
• PEX-D is nitrogen, the production process of this type is complex, so it is not common.

The "warm floor" system can be utilized with any kind of PEX pipe. Nonetheless, because of their small bending angle and increased elasticity, PEX-B and PEX-C are more widely used. Furthermore, because PEX-A requires a higher degree of stitching, special tools are needed for laying. Furthermore, this model goes far beyond its counterparts.

1. Polyethylene with high thermal resistance PE-RT is a modified look, the main component is Octen. The difference between this material and PEX pipes – it is seamless, there is no need to sew it additionally, since the structure has a stable molecular grill.

Even when the coolant flows under it at high pressure, the co-R serpent device operates silently. able to endure extremely cold temperatures. Heat-resistant polyethylene has a calculated service life of several decades.

Although not for very long, such PE can withstand elevated pressure and temperatures. It also lacks structural memory and cannot tolerate substances that are aggressive.

But because of the availability of price indicators, the PE-RT is increasingly fitting into the "pie" of the heating water floor.

1. Polypropylene – have a lot of advantages and are designed for water pipelines and radiator heating. But you can’t use it in warm floors, since they have:

Furthermore, even though they are reinforced, they are prone to thermal expansion. This means that when the pipe is poured, internal pressure increases, which will reduce the pipe’s durability.

Thus, even though polypropylene pipes are inexpensive, it is not advised to use them in warm water floor designs. If you must install polypropylene materials, however, make sure you read this article on creating a stylish floor.

Metal

There are options for metal pipes:

• Copper – are not used often. Firstly, the cost of copper pipes for a warm floor is much higher than other models. And secondly, laying a copper pipeline is a rather complicated process, and without specialized equipment and strict adherence to technological rules can not do. That is, to make a water floor yourself from these pipes will not work.

It’s important to remember, though, that copper coils are ideal for creating a warm water floor in a "pie." Since the copper

• excellent heat conductor – will provide high heat transfer;
• durable and not subject to corrosion;
• Plastic – with proper observance of technology, the bending radius can be minimal;
• has high mechanical strength, and is not afraid of high temperatures.

Just so you know! A polymer film, which shields the product from the harsh chemicals in a concrete screed solution, is often applied by manufacturers.

• Hopper of stainless steel – in the market this species appeared recently, but has already established itself on the positive side. Since the pipes are made of stainless metal, they are not subject to corrosion. In addition, they are equipped with an additional protective polymer coating.

It is noteworthy that the pipeline has good flexibility and can hold the laid, which is crucial when laying a complicated scheme. Furthermore, the product’s flexibility completely eliminates the possibility of contour fracture.

It would be impossible to discuss the corrugated tube’s resistance to temperature, chemical, and mechanical exposure without mentioning it.

Pipes that are 30 or 50 meters long are made in bays. This isn’t always sufficient to create a sturdy loop. But because of how well these pipes are connected with fittings, the nodes can be positioned beneath the screed. This is the only kind of pipeline that permits concrete solution to be poured into its joints.

Since this model is rather expensive, corrugation installation is not common on heated floors.

Just so you know! It is strictly forbidden to install warm water floors using VGP steel pipes.

Metal -plastic

Pipeline made of plastic and metal that is joined together with a laser or ultrasonic. This kind is frequently utilized in floor heating design. One of the causes is plastic’s exceptional flexibility, which makes it simple to bend even in the absence of heat. He is resilient to temperature changes, long-lasting, and eco-friendly.

The product is available in boots up to 50 meters long, making it possible to lay complete loops in compact spaces. Boots are provided with a contour up to ninety meters for large areas.

A multi-layered plastic pipeline with a metal layer is made up of:

• the inner layer – stitched polyethylene;
• metallized – aluminum foil of different thicknesses;
• external – thin polymer coating to protect against mechanical damage.

Just so you know! Because the interior surface of a metallized structure lowers hydraulic resistance and does not contribute to deposits, corrosion cannot occur.

The range of connecting fittings available for metal-plastic pipes facilitates quick and easy installation. Additionally, the product will last longer than 50 years as long as installation and operation follow the guidelines.

When compared to a hose composed of stitched polyethylene, the high thermal conductivity of metal-plastic products offers an additional benefit of enabling rapid surface warming. The drawback is that there’s a chance of damaging the pipeline, and since the form cannot be changed, this portion of the product will have to be removed.

Choosing the right pipes for your underfloor heating system is crucial for its efficiency and longevity. As of February 2024, several types of pipes are commonly used, each with its own characteristics and benefits. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), PERT (polyethylene of raised temperature resistance), and PE-RT (polyethylene of raised temperature) pipes are among the popular choices, offering flexibility, durability, and resistance to high temperatures. PEX pipes are known for their ease of installation and cost-effectiveness, while PERT and PE-RT pipes provide enhanced thermal conductivity and resistance to oxygen diffusion. Additionally, considering factors such as pipe diameter, thickness, and compatibility with your heating system is essential for optimal performance. Consulting with a professional and considering your specific needs can help you make the best choice for your warm floor system.

How to calculate the length of the pipe for a warm floor?

Watch the installation video to learn how to calculate and determine the best pipeline materials to use.

The easiest way to determine the pipeline’s length is to use the average indicator, which is 1 m2 – 5 meters of circuit, and a 200 mm step.

The formula can be used in a more precise manner.

For L = s / n * 1.1,

L is the circuit’s length;

S is the room’s size;

N is a sequential step;

1.1: Product service for turning.

Each floor loop calculation must be completed independently, and all of the indicators must then be folded. Don’t forget to include the distance between the floor and the collector as well.

Just so you know! The room needs to be divided into multiple loops if the outcome is greater than the 120-meter maximum allowed length of the circuit.

An online calculator can help you with the calculation process when figuring out the pipeline’s length.

Selection of optimal diameter

You should disregard the material’s thermal conductivity and the loop’s length when determining the circuit’s diameter. The dimensions 16, 20, and 25 mm are frequently used in the construction of warm floors.

The following considerations need to be made when figuring out the product’s diameter:

• The smaller the diameter of the pipes, the more hydraulic power increases, and the heat exchange level decreases;
• The larger the section, the thicker the screed must be made, while the load on the ceiling increases and the ceiling height decreases.

Crucial! A mismatch between the length and the circuit diameter may result in more hydraulic resistance than the circulation pump is capable of handling.

It is advised to use pipes with a diameter of 16 mm when the pipeline is 70 meters long. A 20 mm section is appropriate with a loop size of 90 meters, and 26 mm at 120 meters.

The degree of heat transfer of the pipe material must be considered when selecting the product’s diameter. The best circuit to use when laying a copper or metal-plastic coil is one with a cross section of 14 or 16 mm. When employing 20 or 25 mm polymer pipes.

Which pipe is better to use for a warm floor?

When deciding on a pipe for a heating water floor, consider the properties of the material, the surrounding environment, and your financial situation. Copper is the best option if the means and ceiling design permit it.

Nevertheless, PEX or metal-plastic pipe is more frequently utilized when building water-warm floors. Comparing the two kinds reveals that they are nearly identical in the following ways:

• The connection of the elements is carried out without the use of the tool and does not require much experience in this work;
• The installation process is not long;
• The pipes bend well.

It is noteworthy that although metal composed of plastic has a higher heat conductivity and warms up more quickly than stitched polyethylene, it costs ten times as much.

Stitched polyethylene comes out on top when comparing the two species’ dependability because its joints are sealed with unique hermetic sleeves. The open connections between pipes and fittings in metal-plastic circuits can cause leaks when the floor is in use.

When it comes to metrics like strength, the leading polyethylene is in the lead. For instance, the circuit will not be impacted by the intermittent freezing and defrosting of the floor with PEX pipes, but the metal-plastic pipeline may damage it.

Just so you know! Heavy steel pipes cannot be used when building heated floors because they will increase the load on the floors.

Characteristics	Rating in February 2024
Material	Various materials available including PEX, PEX-AL-PEX, and PVC
Flexibility	Flexible pipes are easier to install, especially in tight spaces
Heat conduction	Efficient heat transfer is crucial for uniform heating
Durability	Long-lasting pipes reduce maintenance needs

Selecting the appropriate pipes for your warm floor system is essential to guaranteeing effective heating and long-term robustness. When making this choice in February 2024, a number of factors should be taken into account. The pipes’ material is one of the most important factors.

Warm floor systems come in a variety of materials, each with pros and cons of their own. For example, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes are widely used because of their corrosion resistance, longevity, and flexibility. Conversely, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are more reasonably priced than other materials, but they might not be as heat-resistant.

The diameter of the pipes is another crucial consideration. Larger diameter pipes can generally handle higher flow rates and provide better heat distribution, which results in more effective heating. The optimal pipe diameter for your warm floor will ultimately depend on the particular needs of your heating system as well as the design of your room.

It’s important to think about the installation procedure and compatibility with other heating system components in addition to material and diameter. Certain pipes might be easier to install with specific tools or methods, while others might work better with particular kinds of controls or heating systems.

It’s best to speak with a qualified installer or heating engineer when selecting pipes for your warm floor system. They can evaluate your unique requirements and suggest the best solutions. You can guarantee that your warm floor system will continue to provide dependable and effective heating for many years to come by giving careful consideration to elements like compatibility, diameter, and material.

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