The UK’s retrofit market is growing at an impressive pace. Driven by the UK’s Net Zero targets, rising energy costs and funding schemes encouraging homeowners to improve energy efficiency, more people than ever are upgrading their existing homes rather than starting from scratch.
One of the most effective ways to boost the comfort and efficiency of the heating when renovating a building is through underfloor heating – which is where low-profile systems truly shine.
For many years, underfloor heating was associated mainly with new-build properties, where it could be easily integrated during the early stages of construction. But, with the innovative low-profile systems now available, homeowners and installers can enjoy all the benefits of warm floors and efficient heat distribution without the upheaval or expense of major structural changes.
In this blog, we’re taking a look at everything you need to know about low-profile underfloor heating systems, including their benefits and what types of projects they are suited for.
What are low profile underfloor heating systems?
Low-profile underfloor heating systems are typically well-suited for retrofit and renovation projects.
Unlike traditional underfloor heating, which often requires the existing floor to be excavated or a deep screed layer to be laid, low-profile systems are installed directly over the existing subfloor.
These systems use a slimline design with a build-up height of as little as 16mm, depending on the product, allowing installers to fit underfloor heating with minimal impact on floor height.
Despite their reduced thickness, low-profile systems deliver the same reliable and even heat distribution expected from a typical underfloor heating installation.
The result is a high-performance system that brings modern comfort to older or existing buildings, with far less disruption and quicker turnaround times.
Here at Amber, we provide LowPro+ grooved overlay panels in 16mm and 20mm packs which are ideal for low-profile underfloor heating systems.
What are the key benefits of a low-profile underfloor heating system?
- Minimal floor height build-up
One of the biggest concerns in retrofit projects is floor height. Raising the floor level can interfere with doors, skirting boards and ceiling heights – especially in properties with fixed features like built-in furniture, such as kitchen islands or cabinets, or traditional detailing like panelling.
Low-profile underfloor heating is designed to overcome this problem. With extremely slim panels or boards, these systems add minimal height, ensuring the new floor easily integrates with the rest of the home.
This makes them an excellent choice for rooms where maintaining existing levels is essential, such as hallways, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Quick and easy installation
Some underfloor heating systems can be time-consuming to install, especially when installation involves removing the existing floor, pouring new screed and waiting for it to dry before the final flooring can be laid.
In contrast, low-profile systems are engineered for speed and simplicity.
Typically, they can be installed directly on top of the existing subfloor with little preparation required. Many systems use lightweight overlay boards which feature pre-formed grooves for securing the pipes into place.
Installers can apply adhesive to the new or existing subfloor and simply lay the boards on top. Once installed, the flooring can often be laid on top, significantly reducing project timelines.
For installers, this means more efficient workflows and less downtime. For homeowners, it means less disruption throughout their retrofit project and faster access to a comfortable, energy-efficient living space.
- Ideal for renovation projects
As they can be laid on top of existing floors, low-profile systems are especially well-suited to refurbishment projects where maintaining the integrity of the building is important. Whether updating a Victorian terrace or a contemporary apartment, low-profile systems allow homeowners to add warmth and efficiency without altering the property’s structure.
And, with energy efficiency becoming a key focus for the UK’s housing stock, these systems play an important role in helping homeowners retrofit their homes to reduce their energy consumption and reduce reliance on traditional boiler and radiator systems.
Where can low-profile underfloor heating systems be used?
One of the best things about low-profile underfloor heating is its versatility! It can be installed in most rooms of a building, making it an excellent option for both renovations and new-builds.
In retrofit projects, the most common places to install low-profile systems include:
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a common renovation project for many homeowners. Low-profile systems are perfect for retrofitting in bathrooms, where space is often limited and height build-up needs to be minimal. Plus, a warm floor can transform a bathroom into an inviting, cosy space – especially on chilly winter mornings.
Kitchens
Another popular renovation project, kitchens typically feature fixed furniture like cabinets and islands, meaning as little disruption as possible during building works is desirable.
Low-profile underfloor heating can be easy to install in kitchens, requiring minimal additional building work. Plus, underfloor heating creates a minimal, clean and uncluttered look while providing consistent warmth across the room.
Extensions
Whether it’s extending the kitchen, adding a utility room or building a conservatory, extensions are a popular choice for homeowners looking to enhance their home.
Low-profile systems integrate easily with existing structures and heating systems, making them ideal when connecting new spaces to older parts of the home.
And, because they require minimal build-up, they can be installed even where ceiling heights are restricted or where thresholds to external doors must be maintained, providing year-round warmth and comfort.
Low-profile underfloor heating from Amber
Low-profile underfloor heating has transformed how retrofit projects are approached, making it easier than ever to bring efficient, comfortable underfloor heating to existing homes.
At Amber Underfloor Heating, we supply a complete range of wet and electric underfloor heating systems – including low-profile solutions – designed to suit every type of renovation and retrofit project.
Whether you’re upgrading a single room or modernising an entire property, our team can help you find the most effective system for the space.
To learn more about our range of products or to discuss your project requirements, get in touch with our technical team.
