FLOORING OPTIONS

STEP Warmfloor is approved for use under most floor coverings, including natural stone, ceramic and porcelain tiles, hardwood, and laminates, resilient and carpet. The flexible polymer heating element is so thin that it will not affect your floor buildup, weight loads, or flooring choices.

Need to add a link: For more information on installing STEP Warmfloor under any type of flooring, please see our Flooring Guide.

Heated Floors under Hardwood, Engineered Wood and Laminate

Step Warmfloor is an excellent choice for the underfloor heating of engineered or hardwood floors. For a wood floor, it is very important to have a low and stable temperature underneath the entire floor surface. Because STEP Warmfloor is self-regulating, the material acts like a sensor over the entire floor area and therefore, cannot overheat. For heated floors under hardwood, it is essential that the temperature stays below 86°F or the wood may be damaged.

Radiant heat should not be turned on or off abruptly, as this will subject the wood fibers to stress fractures, gaps, and twisting. With STEP Warmfloor you can attain an ideal, consistent temperature with a STEP thermostat or controller.

To install STEP Warmfloor under wood, simply cut the element to the appropriate length and make the electrical connections. Secure the elements to the sub-floor (with approved tape, staples, or pegs) and cover according to trade practices.

Heating under Tile and Stone

Step Warmfloor heating systems can be installed directly in the mortar underneath tile and stone. Simply roll out the element strips, cut them to the desired length on the job site, secure elements to the sub-floor with staples or approved tape, and apply tiles or stone over the elements.

In wet areas, the heating elements must be properly installed under a waterproof membrane to avoid risks of sneak current and/or short circuit. Although STEP Warmfloor is a low-voltage (24-Volt) system and cannot harm you, it is unpleasant to feel a tingling sensation underfoot.

Heating under Carpet

Step Warmfloor heating elements can be installed directly underneath carpet with a carpet cushion placed above the heating elements. Simply roll out the elements, cut them to desired length at the work site and apply.