QuickNet-90 RAYCHEM heating mat under floorboards - guide

The QuickNet-90 heating mat by RAYCHEM is an innovative solution that provides efficient underfloor heating in homes and apartments. Thanks to its durability and simple installation, this system is an ideal solution for those looking for modern methods of heating interiors. In this article you will learn why the QuickNet-90 heating mat is better than other solutions, how to properly install it, which floor panels to choose, and what to pay attention to in order to take full advantage of the potential of electric floor heating.

Why is the heating mat a better solution under floor panels than heating foil?

Among the advantages of heating film is cited their mechanical strength. However, it is laid directly under the floor panels, which are not rigidly fixed to the subfloor. This means that the individual layers naturally move relative to each other during use. Despite the greatest strength, this leads to rapid wear of such a solution and damage to the joints. The floor must be removed in order to replace the heating film with a new one. Heating films therefore have shorter warranty periods.

The situation is different in the case of the heating mat.The heating mat is not installed directly under the panels, but is poured in the self-levelling screed.This means that such an installation does not wear out mechanically at all. For this reason, the service life of the mat is much higher, which is also reflected in the warranty given for each of these solutions. Enclosing the heating mat in the screed still has the advantage that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the floor, which increases comfort.

1. Floor panels need a very even surface so that they don't crack at the joints so you need to make a self-leveling screed anyway.
2. Floor panels are a "floating floor" just as well as the heating film spread underneath them, as a result of which all these elements move, so there is a greater risk of broken joints or sparks.
3. This is not mentioned! Heating film does not have a screen to protect against punctures, power leaks and electrocution! Read the article on this topic.
4. The heating mat permanently placed in the concrete screed is resistant to mechanical damage. It is a solution for years, the floor can be changed or repaired during this time.
5. Heating foils have a much shorter warranty period and only cover replacement with a new product as long as the warranty is recognized.
6. The high quality of the heating mat under QuickNet-90 RAYCHEM floor panels, is confirmed by the warranty, which also includes repair in the floor and bringing it to its original condition.
7. Heating film uses less electricity and is energy efficient - not true. Heating foil and heating mat with the same nominal power consumes the same amount of energy.

Heating power of heating mat floor panels

It would seem that the more power, the better. But not in the case of electric floor heating under floor panels. This is because such an approach can lead to serious problems with the functioning of the installation. Why?

Underfloor heating is all about distributing heat evenly across the floor. For this reason, it is undesirable to obtain high temperatures. The maximum temperature of the floor itself must not exceed 27°C, otherwise walking on it will not be comfortable.

To achieve such a temperature range, a safe 90 W/m² is completely sufficient. In certain situations, it is even advisable to use heating mats with even lower wattage.

Why choose the QuickNet-90 heating mat?

QuickNet-90 heating mat is an extremely thin heating system (only 3 mm thick), which can be installed under various types of floors. Unlike electric heating films, the mats are embedded in a self-leveling screed with a minimum thickness of 15 mm, which guarantees durability and resistance to mechanical damage. The system offers:

• Total Care Guarantee: RAYCHEM ensures that the heating system in the floor is repaired and the floor is brought up to code.
• Ease of floor upgrade: Replacing floor panels does not damage the heating system, making mats a more versatile solution than heating films.
• Even heating: With even temperature distribution, the room heats up quickly and comfortably.

Proper installation of the heating mat under the floor panels.

Proper installation is crucial to the durability and effectiveness of the system. Here are the steps to follow:

• Substrate preparation: The substrate must be dry, level and clean. Any unevenness must be removed to avoid installation problems.
• Laying the heating mat: The mat is laid out according to the manufacturer's instructions. The heating cables must be evenly distributed.
• Sinking the mat into the screed: The QuickNet-90 heating mat should be sunk into the self-leveling screed with a minimum thickness of 15 mm. Such installation ensures protection of the system and even heat distribution.
• Thermostat settings: To protect floor panels and save energy, it is recommended to set the maximum floor temperature at 27°C.
• Power connection: The system requires a 230-volt power supply. The electrical installation should be done by a qualified electrician.

1. Floor panels.
2. Underlay for floor panels.
3. Self-leveling screed with a minimum thickness of 15 mm.
4. Heating mat under the RAYCHEM QuickNet-90 floor panels.
5. Priming agent.
6. Concrete substrate / OSB board.

Which floor panels to choose under electric floor heating?

Not all floor panels are suitable for use with a heating mat. Choosing the right panels is key to the efficiency of heating and the durability of the floor. The most important features of floor panels:

• Thickness of the panels: The optimal thickness is 8-10 mm. Panels that are too thin can be less durable, and thicker panels increase thermal resistance and reduce heating efficiency.
• Thermal resistance coefficient (R): The value of the coefficient should not exceed 0.15 m²K/W. The lower the thermal resistance, the better the thermal conductivity.
• Type of panels:
  • Laminate panels: Popular and durable, but make sure they are compatible with underfloor heating.
  • Vinyl panels (LVT): With their low thermal resistance and high moisture resistance, they are an ideal choice.
  • Wood panels: Thin planks of low-density wood are recommended, but may be less effective than vinyl or laminate.
• Panel certification: Check whether the panels are certified for compatibility with underfloor heating. The manufacturer should make it clear whether the product is suitable for such use.

Underlay for floor panels

Underlay for floor panels plays an important role in an underfloor heating system. It should be:

• Specially designed for underfloor heating: Avoid standard foam underlays that insulate heat.
• Thin and low thermal resistance: Dedicated underlays minimize heat loss and increase system efficiency.

Benefits of QuickNet-90 heating mat and matching panels

• Convenience of use: the QuickNet-90 heating mat combined with properly selected floor panels provides fast and even heating. A warm floor is a comfort every day, especially in winter.
• Energy efficiency: Thanks to the low thermal resistance of the panels and the use of dedicated underlay, the system uses less energy, which translates into lower bills.
• Aesthetics and durability: Modern laminate, vinyl or wood panels combined with a heating mat create not only a functional, but also an aesthetic floor surface.

Summary

QuickNet-90 heating mat by RAYCHEM is a reliable and durable solution for electric floor heating under floor panels. Proper installation, thermostat settings and selection of the right floor panels will allow you to enjoy thermal comfort for many years. This system will work well in living rooms, bedrooms, as well as kitchens or bathrooms, offering even heating and easy floor upgrades.

Opt for QuickNet-90 heating mat and experience the comfort of modern underfloor heating today!