Hardwood floors are warm, beautiful, and long-lasting. Underfloor heating, also known as radiant heat, adds another level of cozy to any room—especially in places like Portland, ME, where winters can be cold and damp. But what happens when you combine the two?
Is pairing hardwood floors with underfloor heating a smart move or just asking for trouble?
Let’s break it all down and clear up the confusion with the help of pros in hardwood flooring services in Portland ME.
First Off: What Is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating systems warm your home from the ground up. Instead of relying on vents or radiators, these systems use electrical wires or water-filled tubes installed beneath your floor to give off a gentle, even heat.
This type of heating feels great—especially on chilly mornings. But when it comes to wood floors, you have to be a little careful.
Can Hardwood Floors Handle the Heat?
Yes—but only if it’s done right.
Wood is a natural material. That means it expands when it gets warm and shrinks when it gets cold or dry. If the temperature under your floor changes too much or too fast, it can lead to problems like:
Cupping – edges curling up
Cracking or gaps between boards
Buckling or lifting of the floor
So, can you install radiant heat under hardwood? Absolutely. But it takes planning, the right materials, and the help of skilled hardwood flooring contractors to make it work.
What Kind of Hardwood Works Best?
Not all wood is created equal when it comes to radiant heat. Here’s what the pros recommend:
✅ Engineered Hardwood
This is the #1 choice for underfloor heating. Engineered wood is made from several layers of wood pressed together, which makes it more stable and less likely to warp or crack from heat changes.
❌ Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood looks amazing but isn’t always a great match for radiant heat. Because it’s one single piece of wood, it’s more sensitive to moisture and temperature changes.
If you’re set on solid wood, talk to a hardwood flooring expert first. Some types of wood—like oak or walnut—can handle it better than others.
Other Things to Consider
Here are some important things to keep in mind when planning to pair hardwood floors with radiant heat:
1. Moisture Levels Matter
Before installation, both the wood and subfloor need to be at the proper moisture level. A professional will check this using special tools to prevent problems down the road.
2. Heat Must Rise Gradually
Avoid blasting the heat too high, too fast. Flooring pros will set your system to increase temperature slowly—usually by no more than 5°F per day.
3. Floating Floors Are Better
Engineered hardwood often comes in a "floating" style, which means it isn't nailed or glued down. This allows for a little natural movement as the wood expands or shrinks.
4. Install a Proper Underlayment
You’ll need an underlayment that allows heat to pass through efficiently while also protecting the wood from excess moisture.
Why Choose Pros for the Job?
Installing radiant heating under hardwood flooring isn’t a basic DIY project. If it’s done incorrectly, you could end up with cracked boards, expensive repairs, or worse—having to replace the whole floor.
That’s why it’s smart to work with a company that specializes in hardwood flooring services in Portland ME, like D&T Hardwood Floors. They’ll help you:
Choose the right type of wood
Prepare the subfloor properly
Install the system safely and correctly
Make sure everything meets warranty requirements
Final Thoughts: Smart and Stylish—When Done Right
Combining hardwood floors with radiant heat is totally possible—and can be a great idea for comfort and energy savings. But it has to be done with care.
With the help of professional hardwood flooring services in Portland ME, you can enjoy warm, beautiful floors all year long—without the risks.
Thinking about adding underfloor heating to your hardwood flooring? Reach out to D&T Hardwood Floors to get honest advice and top-quality craftsmanship. They’ll make sure your home stays both stylish and snug.
