Is Underfloor Heating Worth It in Winter?

Pros, Cons, Costs & When It Actually Makes Sense

Underfloor heating (UFH) feels like a luxury… but is it actually worth it?

Especially in winter, when every decision affects comfort, energy usage, and the monthly bills?

What Does Underfloor Heating Actually Cost?

Costs vary depending on the space, the system, and the flooring type, but here’s a helpful guide:

Wet (Water-Based) UFH

Best for whole-home or large rooms.

• Installation: Higher initial cost

• Running costs: Low

• Best for: Extensions, open-plan living, renovations

Electric UFH

Best for bathrooms or smaller rooms.

• Installation: Lower upfront cost

• Running costs: Higher

• Best for: Spot rooms, retrofits, quick installs

How Does UFH Feel Compared to Radiators?

UFH gives a consistent, even heat meaning no cold patches and no radiators blasting hot then going stone cold.

Homeowners usually describe it as:

• “Soft heat”

• “No nasty drafts”

• “Always warm underfoot”

• “House feels cosy without needing high temps”

It’s especially lovely in:

• Bathrooms

• Kitchens

• Extensions

• Conservatories

• Open-plan rooms

Is It Cheaper to Run Than Radiators?

Wet UFH is generally more efficient than radiators because it works at lower temperatures, because it heats the room evenly without the boiler working as hard.

Electric UFH is more expensive to run, which is why we recommend it for small spaces only.

Heat-Up Time: Radiators vs UFH

UFH does heat up more slowly, but…

• it keeps its warmth for longer

• it maintains a stable temperature

• you generally don’t need to “blast it” like radiators

Perfect for morning routines, families, and people who like the house to feel warm when they wake up.

Best Flooring for UFH

Not all flooring is equal so this matters!

Perfect choices:

• LVT

• Tiles

• Engineered wood

• Most laminates

Avoid if possible:

• Thick carpet

• Solid hardwood (can warp)

If you’re unsure, we can check the TOG rating for you.

When UFH Isn’t Worth It

UFH may not be the right choice if…

• Your insulation is very poor

• You have extremely thick flooring

• You only want quick “on/off” heat

• You’re renovating on a strict budget

• The room is rarely used

In these cases, upgraded radiators or smart heating may make more sense.

So… Is It Worth It?

YES!

Wet UFH is absolutely worth it in most homes. It’s efficient, cosy, and a life-long upgrade.

Electric UFH is worth it for smaller rooms where warm floors can add coziness (like bathrooms).

Considering UFH?

As a multi-trade business, we handle the full process:

• lifting existing floors

• insulation upgrades

• screeding

• UFH installation

• new LVT, tile, or engineered flooring

• plumbing & electrics

• finishing touches

A one stop team with no waiting for different trades.

If you want advice, prices, or help choosing the right system, just drop us a message anytime.