Many homeowners assume that floor heating is only for new builds—that unless you’re pouring a brand-new concrete slab, you can’t install it. But the truth is, you absolutely can install floor heating in existing homes—you just need the right approach.
If you’re planning a renovation or looking for a better way to heat your home, you might be wondering:
✔ Can floor heating be added to my home without ripping up the entire floor?
✔ What options work best for renovations?
✔ Is it worth the investment, or are there better alternatives?
Let’s break it all down so you can choose the best option for your home.
Option 1: In-Screed Floor Heating – Best for Major Renovations
If you’re renovating and replacing your floors, an in-screed system is the best option. Instead of embedding heating pipes in a concrete slab (like in new builds), we lay them in a thin layer of screed (about 30–50mm thick) on top of your existing floor.
How It Works:
1️⃣ Your old flooring is removed (tiles, timber, carpet, etc.).
2️⃣ A screed layer is applied, with heating pipes embedded inside.
3️⃣ Your new flooring is installed on top.
✅ Best for: Homes undergoing a major renovation, especially if changing flooring.
✅ Works well with: Tiles, polished concrete, engineered timber.
✅ Pros:
✔ Highly efficient, long-lasting, and feels amazing.
✔ Works with both heat pumps and gas boilers.
✔ Delivers even, natural warmth across your home.
❌ Cons:
🚫 Adds height to your floor (30–50mm), which may affect door clearances.
🚫 Requires a new floor surface, so not ideal if keeping your current flooring.
Option 2: Low-Profile Floor Heating – For Homes Keeping Their Existing Floor
If you don’t want to rip up your existing floors, there are low-profile hydronic systems that can be installed directly on top of your current floor, without adding much height.
How It Works:
1️⃣ A thin insulation layer is installed over your existing floor.
2️⃣ Flexible heating pipes are placed inside low-profile panels.
3️⃣ A new floor surface (like tiles or engineered timber) is installed on top.
✅ Best for: Homes where removing existing floors isn’t an option.
✅ Works well with: Timber, laminate, engineered flooring.
✅ Pros:
✔ Doesn’t require removing your old floor.
✔ Adds only 15–25mm of height, minimizing disruption.
✔ Works well with heat pumps for lower running costs.
❌ Cons:
🚫 Not quite as thermally efficient as in-screed systems.
🚫 Limited flooring choices (works best with hard surfaces, not thick carpet).
Option 3: Hydronic Radiator Panels – Best Alternative to Floor Heating in Existing Homes
If your home has timber floors or you don’t want to modify your flooring, radiator panels can be a fantastic alternative to in-floor heating. These are wall-mounted panels filled with hot water, giving off gentle, radiant heat to warm the room.
How It Works:
1️⃣ A gas boiler or heat pump heats water.
2️⃣ Water circulates through radiators placed in key rooms.
3️⃣ Heat radiates into the room, providing consistent warmth.
✅ Best for: Homes with timber floors or heritage homes where floor modifications are difficult.
✅ Works well with: Any home layout, especially those with high ceilings.
✅ Pros:
✔ No changes to flooring required.
✔ Quick heat-up times and great warmth distribution.
✔ Energy-efficient, especially with a heat pump.
❌ Cons:
🚫 Takes up some wall space.
🚫 Doesn’t provide the same luxury underfoot as floor heating.
Which Option is Best for Your Home?
Choosing the right system depends on your renovation plans, budget, and existing floor type.
| Home Type | Best Floor Heating Option |
|---|---|
| Full home renovation with new floors | In-screed hydronic heating (most efficient & luxurious) |
| Keeping existing floors but want floor heating | Low-profile hydronic system (minimizes height increase) |
| Timber floors or minimal renovation | Radiator panels (great heating without modifying floors) |
If you’re renovating, in-screed floor heating is the best choice for long-term comfort, energy efficiency, and home value. But if you’re keeping your existing floors, you still have great options with low-profile heating or radiator panels.
Final Thoughts – Is Floor Heating Worth It in an Existing Home?
Absolutely—if it’s done the right way. Many homeowners assume they’ve missed the opportunity for floor heating just because they aren’t building from scratch. But with modern hydronic heating options, you can enjoy the same warm, efficient comfort even in an older home.
Why Homeowners Love Hydronic Heating in Renovations:
✔ No more cold floors in winter.
✔ Lower energy bills compared to ducted or reverse-cycle heating.
✔ Silent operation—no noisy fans or dust circulation.
✔ Increases home value & appeal.
If you’re planning a renovation and want to explore the best heating options for your home, talk to the experts at Euroheat Australia. We can help you find the perfect solution for your space—without major disruptions.
📞 Contact us today for a consultation and quote!
