As the UK housebuilding sector adapts to evolving regulations, energy-efficient, low-carbon heating systems are becoming a non-negotiable part of future developments. With updated Building Regulations already in force, now is the time for housebuilders to invest in technologies that meet today’s compliance demands while supporting long-term sustainability. Gerry Shephard, Business Development Manager at Ambiente, explains why underfloor heating is central to that strategy. 

Gerry Shephard, Business Development Manager at Ambiente

A system built for tomorrow’s standards 

Regulatory change is accelerating as the UK moves towards its legally binding Net Zero target by 2050. One key update came in June 2022 with revisions to Part L, which introduced a maximum flow temperature of 55°C for heating systems in new-build homes and qualifying refurbishments. 

Underfloor heating (UFH) is inherently well-suited to these requirements. Thanks to its large surface area, it operates efficiently at much lower temperatures, typically between 35°C and 45°C. This makes it an ideal pairing for low-carbon heating sources while delivering potential energy savings of up to 40% compared with conventional radiator systems. 

Beyond performance, UFH enhances thermal comfort. It heats from the floor upwards using radiant energy, creating fewer draughts and maintaining a consistent, comfortable environment, unlike convection-based systems, which cycle warm air toward the ceiling. 

Low-carbon technology pairings 

In new homes, air source heat pumps (ASHP) are quickly becoming the standard choice for low-temperature heat sources. However, in many instances, particularly in mixed-tenure or phased developments, a boiler may still be specified in the short term. UFH provides the flexibility to accommodate both, while allowing for future heat source upgrades without major system overhauls. 

When specified correctly, UFH systems can be designed with adaptable pipe spacing and flexible manifolds. This gives developers the option to integrate alternative heat sources down the line. Radiators, on the other hand, are far less adaptable—when paired with lower-temperature systems like ASHP, they often need to be upsized significantly, leading to additional costs and waste. 

The main tip for success is to ensure the chosen underfloor heating system supplier can support the project with CAD drawings, including pipework layouts and heat loss and output calculations. This critical stage will ensure the system is correctly designed. A specialist supplier will also have the expertise to accommodate any specific parameters set by the heat pump manufacturer, further ensuring the system can deliver maximum overall efficiency. 

Precision and comfort combined 

When specifying heating systems for new-build developments, it’s no longer enough to focus solely on average room temperatures or single thermostat readings. Instead, spatial air temperature, the measure of temperature consistency across a room, provides a more accurate indication of how a space will feel to its occupants in real life, rather than just the calculations. For housebuilders and developers, spatial air temperature is an important consideration to achieve the ideal balance of thermal comfort and energy efficiency. 

Recent research from Energy House 2.0 has reinforced the importance of this principle. In rigorous tests at both -5°C and +5°C, UFH demonstrated the smallest temperature variation, just 0.8°C and 0.7°C respectively, when operated using a SAP-compliant heating pattern. In comparison, other heating technologies showed up to 4°C fluctuations, while traditional radiators displayed minimum spatial differences of 2.2°C. 

This high level of performance makes hydronic UFH a standout solution, particularly when paired with low-carbon heat sources such as air source heat pumps (ASHP). The stable, consistent heat output achieved through UFH maximises the coefficient of performance (COP) of ASHPs, supporting compliance with updated Building Regulations and helping to meet the low-temperature demands of the Future Homes Standard. For developers looking to deliver homes that are compliant but also comfortable, efficient and future-ready, UFH offers clear, evidence-backed advantages. 

Added value 

When it comes to creating healthy, future-ready homes, radiant heating stands apart, especially in the form of hydronic UFH. Unlike traditional systems, it delivers consistent warmth across every surface, eliminating cold spots and helping maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. 

Because warmer air retains more moisture, homes heated this way are less prone to condensation and the mould growth it can trigger. With no reliance on forced convection, underfloor heating also reduces the circulation of dust and allergens, supporting better air quality throughout the property. 

As housebuilders continue to respond to consumer demand for sustainable, future-ready homes, UFH can be relied upon to deliver the ideal combination of comfort, compliance and performance. From helping meet regulatory targets to future-proofing developments for next-generation technologies, underfloor heating is more than just a desirable feature; it’s an essential heating system solution for low-carbon dwellings. 

For further details about Ambiente underfloor heating systems click here.

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This feature looks at the advantages of underfloor heating, its growing popularity in sustainable new build projects, and how Next Level is pioneering the latest heating technologies to meet today’s requirements for greener, smarter buildings.

With the construction industry turning toward greener methods, energy-saving technologies have become an increasingly popular element in the design and specification of new homes. One such innovation is underfloor heating (UFH).

The sustainability benefits of underfloor heating

The environmental impact of underfloor heating extends beyond its ability to distribute heat effectively. Here’s why more and more developers are choosing it to help them meet stricter and stricter energy codes:

Energy efficiency

Underfloor heating usually runs at a lower temperature than standard radiators. That means it can be heated by more energy-efficient heat sources, like heat pumps or condensing boilers, which are far more efficient than typical systems. Hydronic underfloor heating can decrease energy use by up to 30%! The outcome is fewer carbon emissions and cheaper utilities for homeowners. In short, uniform heat circulation also eliminates cold spots and warms up the entire room, so you can stay warm without warming the room or setting the heat at a much higher level. This minimises energy wastage and improves a building’s overall efficiency.

Lower carbon footprint

Underfloor heating’s increasing popularity is mainly due to one of the largest drivers of home building: sustainability. Its efficient operation helps to reduce buildings’ carbon emissions. When using low-carbon heat sources such as heat pumps or solar thermal systems, UFH can help lower a property’s carbon footprint, ensuring it is an important technology in reaching netzero energy performance.

Longer system lifespan

Underfloor heating is long-lasting and low-maintenance. Correctly installed, UFH lasts for years and years, reducing the environmental cost of the manufacture, installation and disposal of heating systems. And as there are no moving parts, UFH systems are less likely to go wrong than other heating systems.

Why developers should choose underfloor heating

Underfloor heating has become an increasingly appealing system for developers, as there is a growing need for energy-efficient homes and ones built largely around sustainable principles. Here’s why:

Cost-effective for new builds

Underfloor heating delivers cost savings when incorporated at a new build stage versus installing traditional radiator heating at a later date. By incorporating it into the floor design, developers can dispense with the extra expense of space and materials usually consumed by radiators and their pipework. When installed early in the build process, the system cost can be easier to bundle into a mortgage, while long-term energy savings provide overall market value.

Space-saving design

Developers who wish to maximise the available space in their properties have so much to gain from using underfloor heating systems. Developers can cover more wall space, as they don’t need to incorporate clunky radiators or other methods of providing warm air into the room. This is especially useful in small houses or apartments where every single square metre makes a difference. It can also be installed on a range of flooring types, including tiles and wood, so there are no aesthetic compromises to make for the sake of practicality.

Enhancing property appeal

As more house buyers become more environmentally and budget-conscious, properties with energy-efficient heating systems like underfloor systems are bound to garner more attention. On a purely aesthetic basis, the lack of radiators would also be a feature in more modern houses. More and more buyers are focused on sustainable homes, so underfloor heating in new builds adds an instant value to your property that can be enjoyed long-term.

Next Level: Innovation in underfloor heating solutions

Next Level specialises in underfloor heating and floor screeding in Scotland. Whether you need an underfloor heating installation in a big city like Edinburgh or in a smaller area, Next Level can fully help you transform your heating and comfort to a new level with a series of ultra-efficient, ecological and fast-to-fit products.

Here’s how Next Level stands out inthe underfloor heating sector: Advanced heat distribution technology

Advanced materials and design concepts are incorporated to guarantee effective heat transfer over every square metre. Proprietary hydronic systems are equipped with sleeved hose technology for even heat around each room and supercharged response times for less energy consumption and more comfort.

Eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions

Sustainability is prioritised, with all structures built to be as energy efficient as possible. The solutions work with renewables and are perfect for developers wanting to cut carbon and comply with environmental legislation.

Seamless integration with modern building practices

Next Level hydronic underfloor heating systems have been made to work with contemporary building techniques. Their systems can be used in new construction and remodelled spaces, making them versatile in any situation. A fast and easy installation – and turnaround times – prevents construction schedules from breaking.

The future of sustainable heating

When you work in a sector that now has an environmental conscience, underfloor heating provides a solution that is both cost-effective and meets green obligations. With underfloor heating, housebuilders have an offer that adds a protected living space with a 365-day comfortable room temperature, adding value in an environmentally friendly way.

For housebuilders considering specifying underfloor heating in their next development, Next Level has the experience and solutions to provide a comfortable, energy-efficient future for newly built developments.

For more information on Next Level, visit www.rdr.link/dbe020

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Leading the way in low-temperature heating innovation, Ambiente has launched its latest high-performance underfloor heating system, JoFloor® 28, which strikes the ideal balance of optimal heat distribution and ease of installation within suspended timber floors.

Setting a new standard in both structural integrity and thermal efficiency, the JoFloor® 28 structural underfloor heating system has been designed to address the unique challenges presented when fitting underfloor heating in suspended timber floors.

This solution incorporates Alu-Foil within both the base and top panels, which enhances thermal conductivity, boasts an impressive heat output of 74 Watts of output per m² and increases response time. Importantly, the Alu-Foil ensures even heat distribution across the entire floor surface, ensuring every corner of the space benefits from consistent warmth.

Designed with ease of installation and structural integrity in mind, the JoFloor® 28 system’s foundation is a 22 mm tongue-and-groove P5 flooring-grade chipboard base panel, grooved to receive the AmbiFlex P12 pipe and finished with Alu-Foil. Staggered pipe routes ensure the boards are less likely to weaken or warp over time, maintaining the floor’s structural and thermal performance.

The underside of the 6mm JoFloor® 28 cover panels features a bonded Alu-Foil layer, while the reverse top layer of the panel is printed with a striking orange design. The boldly printed surface outlines the piping network to provide guidance on safe screw points for fixing the board down to the base. Once in situ, the JoFloor® 28 system is ‘floor finish ready’ to accommodate carpet, wood and vinyls, further easing installation.

If laying tiles Ambiente recommends the JoFloor 28 tile board – a high-output board with an Alu-Foil layer.

For further details about JoFloor® 28 and to explore Ambiente’s complete range of underfloor heating systems, product training, system design and technical support, visit ambienteufh.co.uk.

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Underfloor heating systems are an ideal solution to help housebuilders and developers to meet low carbon heating requirements. Here, James griffiths Head of projects at gF building Flow Solutions (formerly uponor), outlines the issues to consider to ensure the right specification.

Over the last decade, the energy efficiency requirements for new homes have tightened significantly in an effort to cut the UK’s carbon emissions. The current version of Part L of the Building Regulations in England and Wales, introduced in June 2022, includes a substantially higher standard for new homes and requires a maximum heating flow temperature of 55ºC. Similarly in Scotland, the compliance guidance for Section 6 of the Building Standards states a maximum temperature of 50ºC. These standards are set to be tightened further with the introduction of the Future Homes Standard. Based on current proposals, this will eliminate the use of gas boilers in favour of low carbon heat sources, such as heat pumps and solar thermal systems.

Due to the lower flow temperatures at which heat pumps operate, it is essential to ensure that the system is designed correctly and that it meets the heating requirements of the property. This includes ensuring that the chosen heat emitters are sized correctly. When using traditional radiators, the sizes may need to increase significantly to accommodate the lower temperature. This is often not ideal as it limits the useable space within a room and is undesirable from an aesthetic perspective.

In contrast, the far larger surface area of hydronic UFH systems makes it ideal for lower flow temperatures. The delivery of heat over the entire floor area also lowers the amount of energy required to heat the space. When specifying a UFH system, there are key factors that must be considered to ensure the chosen option is efficient, effective and fit for purpose.

Hydronic or electric UFH
There are broadly two types of underfloor heating. Hydronic, which is a direct alternative to traditional radiators with hot water circulated through pipes, and electric UFH, which operates using heating cables or mats. On the face of it, electric might seem like an ideal solution given the push towards the electrification of heating. Especially if solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and storage batteries are fitted, providing low cost, renewable energy. Electric UFH is also generally lower cost and simpler to install. However, it is not suitable for all applications as it is less energy efficient, especially for large areas. Also, using electric UFH across sizeable areas within a property will place a high demand on the electrical system, which may not have the capacity. As such, electric UFH is generally most suited to smaller areas, such as bathrooms.

Thermal mass
Underfloor heating is most effective when there is sufficient thermal mass in the floor to absorb, store and release heat. Most often this mass is provided by the screed in which the pipes are laid. A sufficient level of thermal mass will help to minimise the energy required to achieve and maintain the target room temperature. An example of an effective floor construction for UF would be 65mm of screed laid over 65mm of floor insulation to minimise heat loss, ideally on a concrete subfloor. A very lowprofile system maximises the thickness of insulation that can be installed. For example, the Uponor Minitec underfloor system increases the floor height by just 15mm but still offers significant thermal mass as a screed-based product.

Tailored to the heat source
While there is a 50ºC or 55ºC maximum flow temperature set by the regulations, heat pumps and other low carbon sources may operate at an even lower temperature. If this is significantly below the permitted maximum, for example 40ºC, it may be that the UFH installation needs to be configured differently to achieve the required performance effectively. Leading UFH manufacturers will have the knowledge to provide support with this and can often recommend design solutions. This may be reducing the pipe pitches – the distance between the heating pipes – to deliver a higher output and make the system more reactive than it would have been with a standard layout.

Flooring materials
A further important factor to consider is the floor covering. There are a wide range of materials that work well with UFH, including tile, stone, vinyl and laminate flooring. Wooden flooring can be used, but a maximum thickness of 25mm is recommended to enable effective heat transfer. Similarly carpet, which is a popular choice, can be used with UFH but the product specification must be evaluated carefully. This is because if the carpet and underlay provide too much insulation, it will prevent the UFH from transferring the heat efficiently into the room. It is recommended that the combined insulation of the carpet and underlay is no more than 1.5 Tog.

Calculating this is not always simple so the best approach may be to choose from the products that the flooring manufacturers have classified as ‘suitable for underfloor heating’. Underfloor heating systems provide an ideal solution to ensure the required heating performance is achieved with low carbon and renewable heating sources, which are set to become mandatory in the coming years. Seeking technical support from leading manufacturers can help streamline and optimise the design and installation, especially where non-standard solutions are required.

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Darren Trivett, CEO of the Ridgespear Group, discusses some of the key considerations to specifying heat pumps and underfloor heating systems.

Concerns about the Government’s timescale for adopting a Net Zero future for domestic heating and motoring have some striking similarities, as well as major differences.  The roll out of heat pump technology does not, for instance, depend on dramatically increasing the extraction of metals such as lithium from across the planet to manufacture batteries, though there is a geographical dimension to both ambitions across the UK.

As many drivers of electric cars have discovered when heading off for business or vacations, the number of charging points per vehicle is falling, leading to long queues in areas like the west country, while many millions will struggle to install a charger outside their home.

The challenge for heat pumps, in terms of infrastructure, is that in many parts of the country the National Grid cannot provide sufficient power and permission for connection is not always forthcoming and as the difference in the overall energy performance of our homes is highlighted by an EPC rating, neither a ground or air source heat pump will be suitable for every property, so an honest evaluation is therefore required from both installers and politicians.

Likewise, customers need to be conscious of the fact many manufacturers seek to highlight the peak performance of their ranges over the average output, which can fall off dramatically in near-to-zero temperatures.

The adoption by the industry of clear performance labelling makes it easier for to be sure what flow temperature will be delivered by different models of air and ground source heat pumps, but running costs and occupant comfort are still dependent on the quality of design for both the product and the building specific solution.

Fabric heat losses and load must be accurately assessed and the emitters – preferably underfloor heating systems – must be correctly sized and installed.

Incredibly, a recent Grand Designs episode showed Kevin McCloud watching a self-builder at the iconic Graven Hill site, tying heating pipework to the reinforcement for their ground floor concrete slab, where it was later punctured with a jack hammer.  Even an over-deep screed can cause long warm-up delays and poor overall performance: hence the pipe’s distance from the surface and the planned type of floorcovering, must be carefully considered.

Although underfloor heating pipework clipped to rigid insulation a ‘wet’ screeded system remains very popular, particularly for domestic ground floor layouts, dry systems featuring very accurately produced floor panels, including those able to take the place of conventional particleboard decks, are increasingly being utilized for upper levels, in both new build and retrofit situations.  These should also avoid the common problem of ‘thermal striping’ where pipe runs are spaced too far apart, leading to poor heat distribution and comfort levels.

The top performing panels have precision routed channel profiles and special foil diffuser layers to optimize the heat output from pipe runs, while the latest generation even include a routed overlay board whose top surface indicates where it is safe to position fixings.

Other types of UFH system and ancillary products have been developed specifically to suit situations where there’s a desire to minimize overall floor buildeight – perhaps where door heights and skirting boards cannot be changed – or where it is intended to install ceramic tiling as the floor finish.

Crucially then, specifying the correct type of emitter throughout a property can not only offer good levels of comfort, but also achieve this at lower flow temperatures which also enable heat pumps to operate at high efficiency levels.  In fact, heat pumps generally give optimum performance when allowed to run for longer periods: which can also cut wear on the compressor, while reducing the spikes in power demand which concern electricity providers and the Grid.

While a well installed heat pump should always result in lower carbon emissions than a gas boiler meeting the same design loads, longevity is also very important to the whole-life equation and this product life can be enhanced by good installer training, ensuring that the system is properly commissioned (preferably by the manufacturer’s own engineers) and carrying out the required maintenance.

The past winter, where cold but calm weather compounded the impact of European-wide gas shortages, emphasised the fragility of our energy security and therefore the need to increase efficiencies.  Customers, from individual homeowners to housebuilders and social housing providers should seek to engage with manufacturers and installers who have the experience and integrity to offer appropriate, whole-house solutions featuring high performance heat pumps, emitters and controls.

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