Keep your toes toasty

Underfloor heating has only relatively recently become popular in the UK, although very common in Northern Europe. Previously the preserve of the rich and famous, it is now fairly common to find it installed in homes across the country.

There are two main ways of installing underfloor heating. One is a system of pipes running under the floor which then are filled with hot water, much like a typical radiator. This is cheaper to run but the obvious problem with this of course is the risk of a water leak. The other form of underfloor heating is a network of electrical wires which are laid beneath the floor tiles, and which work off a thermostat to click on and off as the temperature reaches the desired level. Both work very well and it is a real treat to come down to the kitchen or into the bathroom on a chilly morning to find the floor toasty hot.

Underfloor heating is not cheap to install although running costs should not be much more than an electric lightbulb. Enquire at a DIY store such as Homebase or B&Q for details as many offer underfloor heating as part of their bathroom and kitchen fitting deals.