A decoupling membrane plays a critical role in the installation and performance of electric underfloor heating systems. Here, Amber Underfloor Heating explains what to look for when choosing a product.
Often made of polyethylene or polypropylene and with a castellated design, a cable-carrying decoupling membrane is used in conjunction with underfloor heating cables between the subfloor and the floor covering.
Its primary function is to securely embed heating cables, whilst obtaining the same properties as a standard decoupling membrane, absorbing movements and stresses, preventing damage to the floor covering above.
So, choosing the right decoupling membrane is essential – and there’s a number of qualities to look for…
Versatility and adaptability
A high-quality cable-carrying decoupling membrane will be engineered to accept a heating cable at various different pre-determined spacings to cater for different wattages per m2.
This means it can adapt to a variety of project requirements, from scenarios where primary heating is preferred, but also with the adaptability to accommodate floor warming options too.
Versatility also extends to the membrane’s ability to perform across various materials. A cable-carrying decoupling membrane is suitable when the subfloor is made of concrete – where the decoupling/anti-fracture properties are required. It can also be used when the subfloor is made of other substrates for which the decoupling features are not necessarily required, but even cable spacings and speed of install are preferable.
Durability
Durability is key when selecting the ideal cable-carrying decoupling membrane.
It must withstand pressure and strain during foot traffic and pinpoint loads prior to the floor covering being installed.
The compression resistance of the membrane is a significant factor here, as a higher resistance to compression ensures that it remains stable, keeping the heating cables protected from all directions.
Crack-bridging ability
Whether using a standard decoupling membrane or a cable-carrying membrane, one of the primary reasons for using a decoupling membrane is to manage the stresses caused by movement.
A decoupling membrane’s crack-bridging ability refers to its capacity to absorb these stresses, preventing cracks and damage to the flooring above.
The EU standard is a minimum of 1.5mm, so while you don’t legally have to exceed this standard, it’s advisable to choose a decoupling membrane which has an even higher crack-bridging ability, especially when embedding heating cables into the surface of the membrane.
A decoupling membrane with superior crack-bridging capabilities will ensure a longer-lasting, more resilient flooring installation, providing added security against the development of cracks, damage or movement.
Curling and rollback resistance
One of the most common challenges with decoupling membrane installation is curling or rollback. This occurs when the membrane doesn’t lay flat, causing possible delays or imperfections during installation.
A well-engineered cable-carrying decoupling membrane should be designed to minimise these issues, so it lays flat and remains in place for quicker and easier installation.
A sturdy polyethylene decoupling membrane is recommended.
Vapour management
A good cable-carrying decoupling membrane should offer effective vapour management, allowing moisture to escape from the subfloor.
A decoupling membrane with effective vapour management will also speed up the drying process, facilitating faster project completion.
Once installed, a high-quality cable-carrying decoupling membrane will be maintenance-free. Its design should ensure that the heating system operates efficiently and consistently for the lifetime of the floor. A good decoupling membrane can make all the difference to an electric underfloor heating installation.
Here at Amber Underfloor Heating, our decoupling membranes have features and capabilities designed to improve the installation and performance of underfloor heating.
www.amberufh.co.uk
