How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?

Underfloor heating full cost guide

Experience warm, cosy floors and increased comfort. Underfloor heating not only cuts energy bills but can also boost your property’s value. Discover the true cost of underfloor heating installation, and price per square metre, to make a confident decision about this upgrade.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

1. Underfloor heating average cost
2. Professional underfloor heating installation costs
3. Electric vs. hydronic underfloor heating costs
4. How to retrofit underfloor heating
5. Beware of these hidden underfloor heating costs
6. Long-term underfloor heating cost benefits
7. Find underfloor heating professionals near you on MyBuilder
8. FAQ: Common questions about underfloor heating costs

Underfloor heating average cost

Underfloor heating is increasingly popular for its energy savings and improved home comfort. But how much does underfloor heating cost per square metre?

On average, electric underfloor heating can range from £50 to £85 per m², while water-based systems can cost between £120 and £185 per m².

Here’s a quick look at the average underfloor heating costs:

Underfloor Heating System	Average Price per m²
Electric in New Build	£50 to £75
Electric in Renovation	£60 to £85
Water-based in New Build	£120 to £135
Water-based in Renovation	£135 to £185

Note: Renovating your property? Visit our price guide for all house renovation costs. Or, get in touch with a professional on MyBuilder. Post your job for free, and underfloor heating engineers near you can get back in touch.

Plus, everyone on our directory undergoes ID verification, and skills checks where relevant, so you can skip the hassle of searching yourself and enjoy more peace of mind.

Professional underfloor heating installation costs

Once you know you want underfloor heating, the next step is to hire the right professional.

Professional underfloor heating installation costs typically include:

• Materials: heating mats or pipes, insulation boards, and controls such as thermostats
• Labour: skilled installation, system testing, and commissioning to ensure safety and efficiency
• Additional work: floor preparation, possible removal of existing flooring, and making adjustments to accommodate the system

These elements combined determine the total cost per square metre, which usually ranges from £40 to £140 depending on the system type and project complexity.

To get the best price for your underfloor heating project, you can talk to multiple professionals near you and compare their services. Just post your job on MyBuilder today and connect with heating engineers near you. It’s the easy and quick way to get in touch with them.

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Electric vs. hydronic underfloor heating costs

When you are considering underfloor heating for the first time, it's key to understand the differences between electric and hydronic systems:

Electric underfloor heating uses electric mats or wires to generate heat. It’s typically cheaper and faster to install, ideal for smaller rooms or renovations, but can have higher running costs due to electricity prices.

Hydronic systems circulate warm water through pipes beneath the floor, often powered by gas boilers. While installation costs are higher, they offer lower long-term energy bills and are more cost-effective for larger spaces.

For example, installing a hydronic system for a 100m² area might cost around £5,000 plus VAT. Electric systems suit smaller areas better, whereas hydronic systems deliver savings in larger installations.

How to retrofit underfloor heating

Retrofitting underfloor heating is possible but more complex and costly than new builds, as it requires removing existing flooring and adjusting floor levels.

The cost of retrofitting underfloor heating can vary greatly depending on factors such as the system type, the condition of the existing floor and the extent of preparatory work required. Removing existing flooring can vary in cost depending on the material.

Here are some average costs:

Flooring Type	Average Removal Cost
Carpet	£1 – £4 per m²
Laminate	£5 – £10 per m²
Vinyl	£5 – £12 per m²
Ceramic Tiles	£13 per m²
Wood Flooring	£2 per m²

Note: Costs vary based on room size, labour rates, and regional differences. Consult a local professional.

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Beware of these hidden underfloor heating costs

When you are planning underfloor heating, there are some additional costs that could come up during the process.

Here’s some hidden costs you should be aware of:

Insulation: Essential for efficiency, costs range from £60 to £115 per m² depending on floor type.

Flooring: Materials like tile or stone conduct heat well, with installation costs between £35 and £100 per m².

Thermostat installation: Costs typically fall between £100 and £200 for quality controls.

Maintenance: Annual servicing costs range from £100 to £200 to keep the system efficient.

Running costs: Electric systems can cost around £5.42 per month per m², higher than water-based systems.

Considering the complexity and precision required for underfloor heating installation, it's important that you hire a recommended professional to make sure the job is done right.

Post your job on MyBuilder today to connect with a verified heating engineer near you.

Long-term underfloor heating cost benefits

Underfloor heating is an increasingly popular modern heating solution that offers numerous benefits beyond warmth and comfort. Take a look at the long term benefits:

• Provides efficient, even heat distribution at lower temperatures, reducing energy consumption.
• Frees up wall space by eliminating bulky radiators, enhancing room aesthetics and layout options.
• Increases property resale value with its appeal as a modern, energy-efficient upgrade.
• Safer for homes with children and pets due to lower surface temperatures and no exposed hot elements.

These advantages make underfloor heating a smart investment for both comfort and long-term cost savings.

Find underfloor heating professionals near you on MyBuilder

MyBuilder is the quick and easy way to find underfloor heating companies near you. Just post your job today, whether you need some simple advice, or are ready to get your underfloor heating project started, and professionals will get back in touch. You can also browse our directory of verified professionals near you, read customer reviews and check images of their previous work!

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FAQ: Common questions about underfloor heating costs

How does energy consumption impact the running costs of underfloor heating?

Underfloor heating is designed to be more energy-efficient than traditional radiators as it operates at lower temperatures- usually between 27 to 32°C for floors- - and provides consistent and uniform heating. This efficiency can lead to reduced energy consumption, potentially lowering the running costs.

What are the potential challenges of installing underfloor heating?

Underfloor heating systems come with several challenges. The initial installation cost can be high, especially for retrofits requiring floor adjustments. Installation time is longer than traditional systems, potentially delaying projects.

Does underfloor heating work with heat pumps?

Yes! Water-based systems pair well with air source or ground source heat pumps, improving efficiency and reducing energy costs. For all air source heat pump installation costs, visit our informative price guide.

Can I leave my underfloor heating on all the time?

For best efficiency, it’s recommended to set a consistent low temperature rather than turning it on and off frequently. Water-based systems work best when kept at a steady heat.

Does underfloor heating reduce humidity?

Yes, underfloor heating helps to prevent dampness and condensation, making it a great choice for bathrooms and kitchens. If you’re considering renovating your bathroom, visit our price guide for all new bathroom costs.