A complete home renovation often means debris, noise, and weeks of annoying construction work. That’s why, when the idea of installing underfloor heating comes up, the first question is always the same: Am I going to have to rip out the entire old floor?
The short answer is no. Today, low-profile solutions designed specifically to install underfloor heating directly over existing flooring exist, reducing construction time and costs.
The Height Challenge in Renovations
In new construction, traditional underfloor heating uses 1.2 to 2-inch insulation panels covered by a thick layer of screed. This adds up to 3 to 4 inches in total height.
In a renovation, adding 4 inches to the floor is unfeasible: it would require trimming every door, adjusting outlet heights, and even modifying stairs or patio access.
The Solution: Low-Profile Systems
To solve this issue, ultra-low-profile panels combined with high-strength self-leveling compounds are used. These systems allow you to install the loop directly over the current floor while losing minimal height.
Among these solutions, Polytherm’s Cross S-17 system stands out, specifically designed for retrofit and renovation projects where every millimeter counts.
Advantages of the Cross S-17 System in Renovations
- Minimal thickness (only 0.67 in / 17 mm): The base panel and fluid screed take up minimal space, reducing necessary adjustments to doors and woodwork.
- No demolition required: Installs directly over old tile, terrazzo, or subfloor (provided it is clean and level), avoiding debris.
- Faster thermal response: With less screed mass above the pipe, thermal inertia is lower. The floor heats up and cools down much faster than a traditional system.
- Year-round comfort: Fully compatible with winter heating and summer radiant cooling when paired with a heat pump.
Steps for Installation Over an Old Floor
- Surface preparation: Verify that the old floor is solid and flat. Apply a primer to ensure proper adhesion.
- Cross S-17 panel placement: Install the panels and perimeter expansion strip.
- Pipe layout: Fasten high-resistance polyethylene pipes into the panel channels.
- Pouring self-leveling compound: Cover the installation with a specialized fluid screed until reaching the required level.
- Final floor covering installation: Once the screed dries, lay the new finish directly on top (tile, hardwood, or laminate).
Installing underfloor heating during a renovation no longer requires major demolition or losing ceiling height. Choosing advanced low-profile technical solutions like Polytherm’s Cross S-17 allows you to enjoy maximum thermal comfort with a fast, clean, and efficient project.
Discover all technical specifications for the Polytherm Cross S-17 Base Element.