Answer: For retrofits, electric radiant floor heating mats installed below the finished floor are a practical, retrofit-friendly choice that adds warmth without increasing floor height. These systems suit homeowners renovating bathrooms, kitchens, or living spaces where tile or stone flooring is already in place. The top five products below are selected for ease of installation, compatibility with common thermostats, and even heat distribution. See the quick reference table after the intro for a snapshot of core specs.
| Product | Approx. Area (sq ft) | Voltage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SunTouch 1200416U2ST | 4 x 16 | 120V | Tile or stone floors in retrofit projects |
| LuxHeat 40sqft Kit | 40 | 120V | Bathrooms and kitchens with tile or stone |
| LuxHeat 60sqft Kit | 60 | 120V | Medium rooms needing even heat distribution |
| LuxHeat 50 sqft Kit | 50 | 120V | Tile or laminate upgrades in compact spaces |
| SunTouch 1200512U2ST | 5.5 x 12 | 120V | Smaller retrofit areas with consistent heat |
Best for Targeted Tile Areas: SunTouch 4×16 Mat
The SunTouch 1200416U2ST is an indoor radiant heating mat designed for 120V systems with an open-weave mesh backing for even heat distribution. It supports retrofits by warming the finished floor from beneath without adding height, making it ideal for renovations in tile, ceramic, porcelain, or stone rooms. Best for smaller, clearly defined floor areas or zone heating in a larger room. Caution: verify subfloor space and access for wiring before installation.
Best Overall Value for Larger Rooms: LuxHeat 40sqft Kit
LuxHeat’s 40sqft kit includes a 120V heating cable, a Prova Flex-Heat uncoupling membrane, a UDG4 touchscreen programmable thermostat with GFCI, and a floor sensor. It supports a flexible 3-in-1 solution: heated floor, crack prevention, and waterproofing with a tile-ready underlayment. Best for bathrooms or kitchens where control over individual rooms is desirable. Choose this if you want a modern thermostat with advanced scheduling and weatherization features.
Best for Larger Areas: LuxHeat 60sqft Kit
LuxHeat’s 60sqft kit expands the heated area with a Prova Flex-Heat uncoupling membrane and an UWG5 LED touchscreen thermostat with WiFi and GFCI. It supports dual-sensing (air and floor) and app/voice control, offering precise comfort management across medium to large rooms. Best for full bathroom upgrades or living spaces where you want robust zoning. Limitation: the system requires proper embedding in self-leveling compounds or mortar for ideal performance.
Best for DIY-Friendly Install: LuxHeat 50 sqft Kit
LuxHeat’s 50 sqft kit uses a self-adhesive mat and includes a UWG4 thermostat with floor sensor and built-in GFCI. It is designed for straightforward installation under tile or laminate, with simple cutting and placement options. Best for smaller spaces like powder rooms or entryways where quick upgrades are desired. Caution: ensure proper embedding to avoid telegraphing or movement of the mat over time.
Best Retrofit Compatibility: SunTouch 1200512U2ST
This SunTouch 5.5’x12′ mat offers a larger linear footprint with a 0.5 Amp rating, designed for easy retrofit into narrow floor runs or elongated spaces. It remains compatible with SunTouch thermostats and delivers even heat distribution via an open-weave backing. Best for retrofit projects where a longer strip of heated flooring is needed. Limitation: ensure the corridor or room layout allows for practical heat coverage without overlapping heat zones.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing underfloor heating for retrofit projects:
- Heat coverage and layout: Measure the floor area and plan mats in logical zones to avoid gaps and ensure even warmth.
- Thermostat compatibility: Most kits include or specify a compatible smart or programmable thermostat; ensure your preferred control method is supported.
- Flooring type and underlayment: Tile and stone require self-leveling or uncoupling membranes to prevent cracking and improve heat transfer.
- Installation complexity: Self-adhesive mats simplify adhesion but may require careful cutting and routing around obstacles.
- Safety and certifications: Look for GFCI protection, waterproofing features, and UL/cUL listings for US installations.
- Maintenance and warranty: Check warranty length and whether components (thermostats, sensors) are covered for your locale.
FAQ
- Q: Are electric underfloor mats suitable for retrofit in existing homes? A: Yes, they’re designed to warm the finished floor from beneath without raising floor height, making them retrofit-friendly in many spaces.
- Q: Do I need special subfloor preparation before installation? A: Yes, follow the membrane or mortar guidelines to ensure even heat transfer and prevent damage to the flooring.
- Q: Can these systems be controlled by a smartphone? A: Many LuxHeat kits offer WiFi-enabled thermostats with app control, improving convenience and scheduling.
- Q: How many zones should I plan for in a retrofit? A: Plan per room or per major area; avoid overlapping heating zones to maintain even temperatures and reduce energy use.
- Q: What is the typical installation height impact? A: These systems are designed to add minimal height, especially when installed beneath the finished floor or in thin-layer applications.
- Q: Are there any caveats regarding tile or stone flooring? A: Ensure proper underlayment and embedding to prevent movement and to maintain durability under heavy ceramic or stone tiles.