Underfloor Heating
Underfloor Heating Installation in Chorley, Preston & Lancashire
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Underfloor Heating Installation in Chorley, Preston & Lancashire
Underfloor heating is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to heat your home. Instead of relying on traditional wall radiators, underfloor heating systems distribute warmth evenly across the entire floor surface, creating a consistent temperature throughout the room.
At Croston Plumbing & Heating, we install high-quality wet underfloor heating systems across Chorley, Preston, Leyland and surrounding Lancashire areas. With more than 20 years of experience in heating installations, our Gas Safe registered engineers design and install reliable heating systems tailored to your property.
Whether you’re building a new extension, renovating a bathroom, or upgrading your home’s heating system, underfloor heating offers a modern, energy-efficient solution.
What is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating (UFH) is a modern heating system that warms your home from the ground up. Instead of relying on traditional wall radiators, heat is distributed evenly across the floor surface, creating a comfortable and consistent temperature throughout the room.
Underfloor heating works by circulating warm water through pipes installed beneath the floor surface or by using electric heating mats. The heat gently rises through the floor, warming the entire space evenly.
At Croston Plumbing & Heating, we specialise in wet underfloor heating systems, which are the most energy-efficient option for heating larger areas of your home.
There are three main types of wet underfloor heating systems used in UK homes.
1. In-Screed Underfloor Heating Systems
In-screed systems are the most common type of underfloor heating used in new builds, extensions and full renovations.
The heating pipes are installed onto insulation boards and then covered with a layer of screed or concrete. This creates a strong thermal mass that holds heat efficiently and distributes warmth evenly across the floor.
Benefits of in-screed systems include:
• Excellent heat retention
• Highly energy efficient
• Ideal for large areas and open-plan spaces
• Perfect for new build properties and extensions
2. Overlay Underfloor Heating Systems (Retrofit)
Overlay systems also known as low profile systems are designed specifically for existing homes where floor height needs to be kept to a minimum.
These systems use specially designed low-profile boards that sit directly on top of the existing floor. The heating pipes are installed into these boards before the final floor covering is applied.
Overlay systems are commonly used in:
• Bathroom renovations
• Kitchen refurbishments
• Whole-house retrofit projects
• Homes where removing the floor is not practical
They are a great solution for homeowners across Chorley, Preston and Leyland looking to upgrade their heating without major structural work.
3. Between Joists Underfloor Heating Systems
Between-joists systems are installed between timber floor joists and are often used in upstairs floors or timber-framed homes.
The heating pipes sit between the joists beneath the floorboards, allowing the system to heat the room from below without significantly raising the floor level.
This type of installation is ideal for:
• Timber floor constructions
• First floor heating systems
• Renovation projects
• Properties where screed systems are not suitable
These wet underfloor heating systems can be connected to modern boilers or air source heat pumps, making them an efficient heating solution for both new builds and existing homes across Lancashire.
Electric Underfloor Heating
Electric underfloor heating uses heating cables or mats installed directly beneath the floor surface. Unlike wet systems, electric UFH doesn’t require pipework, a manifold, or connection to your boiler, making it a fast and cost-effective option for individual rooms.
These systems are typically installed in:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Conservatories
- Small renovation projects
Electric systems can usually be installed in a single day and are ideal for homeowners who want warm floors in one or two rooms without the commitment of a whole-home wet system. They respond quickly, typically warming up within 20-30 minutes, and are best managed with a programmable thermostat to keep running costs down.
Benefits of Underfloor Heating
More homeowners across Chorley, Preston and Leyland are choosing underfloor heating due to the comfort and efficiency it provides.
Even Heat Distribution
Underfloor heating warms the entire floor surface, eliminating cold spots and creating consistent warmth throughout the room.
Lower Energy Consumption
Because UFH operates at lower temperatures than traditional radiators, it can reduce energy usage and improve heating efficiency.
More Space and Better Design
Without radiators on the walls, you gain extra space and more flexibility when designing your room layout.
Silent Operation
Underfloor heating systems run quietly without the clicking and expansion noises often associated with radiator pipework.
Compatible with Modern Heating Systems
Underfloor heating works perfectly with modern condensing boilers and renewable heating systems such as air source heat pumps.
Our Underfloor Heating Installation Process
At Croston Plumbing & Heating we make the installation process simple and stress-free.
Step 1 – Free Survey
One of our heating engineers will visit your property to assess the floor construction, insulation levels and heating requirements.
Step 2 – System Design
We design a tailored underfloor heating layout to ensure even heat distribution and maximum efficiency.
Step 3 – Professional Installation
Our experienced engineers install the pipework, manifolds and controls to the highest standards.
Step 4 – Testing & Commissioning
The system is pressure tested, balanced and connected to your heating system.
Step 5 – System Handover
We show you how to control your thermostats and heating zones so you can easily manage your home’s temperature.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?
The cost of underfloor heating depends on several factors including the size of the room, floor preparation required and whether a wet or electric system is installed.
As a general guide:
Electric underfloor heating
Typical installation cost for a bathroom or small room starts from around £300 to £800.
Wet underfloor heating systems
Installation for larger areas such as ground floors or extensions typically starts from £2,500 to £8,000+ depending on system size.
Croston Plumbing & Heating also offers 0% finance options to help spread the cost of larger installations.
For an accurate quote tailored to your property, we recommend booking a free survey with our team.
Underfloor Heating for Bathrooms
Underfloor heating is particularly popular in bathroom renovations because it keeps tiled floors warm and eliminates the need for bulky radiators.
Benefits include:
Warm bathroom floors during winter
More wall space for bathroom furniture
Perfect for modern walk-in showers
Ideal for tiled and stone floors
Many of our bathroom installation projects include underfloor heating systems to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Why Choose Croston Plumbing & Heating?
Homeowners across Lancashire trust Croston Plumbing & Heating for their heating installations because we provide reliable, high-quality workmanship and honest advice.
✔ Gas Safe Registered engineers
✔ Worcester Bosch accredited installers
✔ Over 20 years industry experience
✔ Local family-run business based in Chorley
✔ Free surveys and quotations
✔ 0% finance available
✔ Fully insured and qualified engineers
We take pride in delivering heating systems that are efficient, reliable and built to last.
Get Your Free Underfloor Heating Estimate 👇
Tell us a few details about your project and our team will be in touch to discuss the best wet underfloor heating solution for your home or project in Chorley, Preston, Leyland and surrounding Lancashire areas.
No plans or dimensions yet? No problem. Send us your enquiry and we’ll still be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Underfloor Heating
Q: Is underfloor heating cheaper to run than radiators?
A: Underfloor heating can often be cheaper to run than traditional radiators because it operates at lower water temperatures while still heating the room evenly. Wet underfloor heating systems typically run at around 35-45°C, compared to radiators which often require 60-75°C, making the system more energy efficient.
Q: Can underfloor heating be installed in an existing house?
A: Yes, underfloor heating can be installed in existing homes as well as new builds. Modern low-profile retrofit systems allow pipes to be installed on top of existing floors with minimal increase in floor height, making them ideal for renovation projects.
Q: What flooring works best with underfloor heating?
A: Tiles, stone and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are the best flooring materials for underfloor heating because they conduct heat efficiently. However, laminate flooring and engineered wood can also work well when installed with the correct system.
Q: Can underfloor heating be used with carpet?
A: Yes, carpet can be used with underfloor heating, but with an important caveat. The combined tog rating of the carpet and underlay together must not exceed 1.5 tog. High tog carpets act as insulation and reduce heat output significantly, which increases running costs and reduces comfort. Tiles, LVT and engineered wood will always outperform carpet with UFH but if you want carpet, our team can advise on suitable products during your survey.
Q: How long does underfloor heating take to warm up?
A: Electric underfloor heating systems can warm up within 20-30 minutes, while wet underfloor heating systems usually take 30-60 minutes depending on the floor structure and insulation.
Q: Does underfloor heating replace radiators?
A: Underfloor heating can completely replace radiators in many homes, particularly in new builds and modern extensions. Some homeowners choose to combine underfloor heating downstairs with radiators upstairs for maximum efficiency.
Q: Is underfloor heating suitable for bathrooms?
A: Yes, underfloor heating is extremely popular in bathrooms because it keeps tiled floors warm and eliminates the need for bulky radiators. It is often installed during bathroom renovation projects.
Q: Can underfloor heating work with a combi boiler?
A: Yes, most modern combi boilers and system boilers are compatible with wet underfloor heating systems. Underfloor heating also works very efficiently with renewable heating systems such as air source heat pumps.
Q: Does underfloor heating add value to a house?
A: Underfloor heating can increase property appeal and value because it improves comfort, energy efficiency and interior design flexibility. Many buyers now expect modern heating systems in renovated homes.
Q: What are the disadvantages of underfloor heating?
A: Underfloor heating systems require professional installation and may have higher upfront costs compared to radiators. However, the long-term energy efficiency and improved comfort often outweigh the initial investment.
Q: How much does underfloor heating cost in the UK?
A: Electric underfloor heating typically costs £300-£800 to install in smaller rooms such as bathrooms. Wet underfloor heating systems for larger areas or ground floors can range from £2,500 to £8,000+ depending on the size of the property and system design.