DIY Network

Radiant Heat Installation Find out how to install radiant heat under your flooring. From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-307

Host Ed Del Grande explains how to install a radiant heat system under a tile floor.

advertisement

Materials:

PEX cutter and crimper
screw gun
1" drywall screws
construction adhesive
rubber mallet
chalk line
circular saw
PEX track
3/8" PEX piping and fittings
1" drywall screws
construction adhesive

Take measurements of your bathroom in order to know how many panels you'll need. Check with the manufacturer for layout instructions and the number of panels for your particular space.

There are three basic choices for heat panels. One choice is a loop back return bend (figure A); another is a long straight track, and the third option is a combination of the two (figure B). With this type of panel, you can mix and match to get the shape you need.

Figure A

Figure B

1. Cut all of the panels to size (figure C), and then lay them out as you want them before gluing any of the panels down.

2. Cut several 12 inch pieces of the PEX pipe, and then lay out the panels (figure D). Sart at the longest wall.

Figure C

Figure D

3. Insert a piece of the PEX into the track to ensure that the panels are aligned. Use a rubber mallet to help secure the PEX into the track.

4. Continue fitting the panels and securing them with the PEX. Mark the panels that need to be cut, and then use a circular saw to make the cuts.

Safety Note: Wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting the panels.

5. When making a filler piece, make them as big as possible.

6. Continue around the room, fitting the panels into place.

Note: Use tile setters between each panel to create an 1/8 inch gap to allow for expansion.

7. Glue each panel down (figure E) starting in the corner of the room. Apply the adhesive to the back of each panel in the center and along all four edges. Be sure to apply an even bead of adhesive on the tiles.

8. Place the panel into position, and then place a tile spacer in between the panels (figure F).

Figure E

Figure F

Figure G

9. Screw the panel into place.

10. Remove the next panel, and then apply the adhesive. Insert the spacers and reinsert the short piece of PEX into the track to further ensure alignment.

11. When the tile is positioned, screw it down (figure G). Use at least 10 screws on a full panel.

12. Once all of the tiles are in place, allow the adhesive to dry.

Page  1 | 2