Floor heating milling is a method of installing thermal heating beneath the floor covering without removing or raising the existing floor. This technique combines precision workmanship with minimal surface damage and allows for a quick startup of the heating system. In this article, we explain what floor heating milling is, how the technique works, which tools are used, and the advantages and disadvantages of the method. We also discuss when it is worth considering milling as a heating solution for your space.
What Is Milling
Milling is the process of creating linear grooves in the flooring material using a milling machine or a specialized diamond tool. In the context of floor heating systems, milling is used to form channels or data conduits and to secure pipes or cables without fully removing the floor covering. This technology allows for minimizing the floor height increase, preserving the integrity of the subfloor, and reducing installation time. Milling is also often used for precise placement of heating circuits, which improves heating efficiency and reduces heat loss.
Technology
Milling for floor heating involves several key steps. First, the room is carefully measured, and channels are planned for optimal heat distribution. Next, grooves are carefully cut or milled into the flooring, after which the heating elements, such as pipes or cables, are laid into the channels. The channels are then filled with a special filler or placed under a screed layer to prevent movement and ensure strength. Once the installation is complete, the floor covering can be restored or maintained with minimal height differences, allowing the heating system to start quickly. It is important to use high-precision tools and quality control to prevent damage to the subfloor and ensure even heat distribution across the surface.
Tools
High-hardness, temperature-stable milling tools are used to create grooves with minimal gaps and deviations. Accurate tools are crucial for uniform grooves and high-quality installation of the thermal circuit. Drill bits and hand templates are used for pre-marking the layout, ensuring mistakes are avoided during installation and reducing work time. Measuring equipment checks depth and surface level, ensuring a stable thermal regime and extending the system’s lifespan. Insulation and filler materials are used to restore the surface after the coolant is installed. The choice of materials directly affects the durability and quality of the final flooring.
Advantages of the Method
Let’s look at the main benefits.
Height Preservation
Milling preserves the existing floor level, reducing the cost of disassembling or moving lighting fixtures or furniture and also minimizing the risk of damage to the concrete floor beneath the heating system.
- Thanks to precise grooves for the coolant, the floor height changes very little after installation, which is especially important in apartments and offices with limited space.
Maintaining floor height contributes to a quick system startup and minimal disruption to the space layout.
Efficiency
Milling technology reduces installation time compared to traditional methods, allowing the heating system to start quickly.
- Because large-scale disassembly is avoided and channels can be installed quickly, the number of work phases can be reduced.
A faster system startup increases comfort for residents or users and reduces downtime during construction.
Limitations
Let’s look at the main disadvantages.
Types of Flooring
Milling is not always suitable for all flooring materials; some types of stone or very hard composite materials may require specialized equipment.
- When working with sensitive surfaces, careful selection of tools and operating modes is necessary to prevent cracks or damage.
Before starting, it is worth performing a detailed analysis of the materials and possible limitations.
Cost
Costs may be higher than with traditional solutions due to the use of specialized equipment and the need for high precision.
- Initial costs include the purchase of tools, materials, and the time skilled professionals spend on precise measurements.
Long-term savings often justify the investment, but it is advisable to estimate the budget at the start of the project.
Bricknest is a provider of modern solutions in floor heating and building technologies.
