Applying microcement over radiant floor heating
Nowadays, interior design is becoming increasingly popular, and one of the latest trends in this area is the use of microcement over radiant flooring. Microcement is a very versatile material that can be used to cover a wide variety of surfaces, from walls and floors to furniture and decorative objects. The fact that microcement is a very durable and easy to maintain material makes it an ideal choice for those looking for high quality and durable interior decoration.
A decorative coating that is increasingly being used in conjunction with radiant floors, as both materials complement each other perfectly. This type of flooring is becoming increasingly popular in homes and offices, as they provide a pleasant feeling of thermal comfort that extends throughout the entire home effectively and being a more economical option in the long run. Microcement is a material that is a good conductor of temperature, making it ideal for use on this type of floor. In fact, the application of microcement over radiant floor heating is one of the latest trends in the decorative scene.
Advantages of microcement over radiant floor
The microcement is already a decorative material that offers a great advantage when it comes to remodeling spaces. It possesses a multitude of properties that make it a versatile and beloved material by the professionals.
In the case of its action on underfloor heating, it was not going to be any different, being one of the few coverings that perfectly combines with this type of heating, compared to other materials, which, generally, are more delicate in these kinds of installations.
Next, we will mention some of its most outstanding qualities that make microcement the ideal coating to be used on underfloor heating.
Resistance and thermal conductivity
Microcement is a material that presents high conductivity and thermal insulation properties, making it an ideal material to be used on surfaces such as underfloor heating, as it will prevent the possible appearance of defects, cracks or fissures in the future, a quality that is not usually fulfilled in most decorative coatings.
Continuous covering
One of the most characteristic properties of microcement is its ability to create surfaces free of expansion joints. In this way, in the case of application on underfloor heating, the result is the same, creating elegant continuous floors without visual breaks, that give the room greater sophistication.
Low consumption
One of the most outstanding characteristics of microcement is that when installed on underfloor heating, it enhances better performance of them, achieving greater efficiency that translates into less energy required to reach the desired temperature. A good way to save money, especially in times like now, where the price of energy is through the roof.
Sensation of thermal comfort
The potential of underfloor heating lies in its uniform distribution, which helps to achieve more quickly that sensation that you are looking for thermal comfort, creating a perfect balance between the room temperature, as well as our own body temperature that we emit. All this carried out with great efficiency thanks to the thermal conductivity of microcement.
How to apply microcement on an underfloor heating: step
At MyRevest, we are highly skilled professionals working with microcement. Our knowledge extends from the manufacturing process to the application of the product. Thus, our professionals are experts in advising applicators when installing microcement in order to guarantee outstanding results.
In this case, we are going to delve into the execution process, step by step, of a microcement coating on a radiant floor, all with the aim of clarifying certain doubts and ensuring that the best way to obtain a satisfactory finish is firmly understood.
Heating the floor before applying the microcement
Before proceeding with the application of microcement on the radiant floor, we should perform a preliminary heating activation protocol. In this way, we prevent any potential cracks formed in the support from drastic temperature changes affecting the future surface.
- 4 weeks before proceeding with the placement of the cement mortar, the heating must be turned on.
- For 2 or 3 days, maintain the entrance water to the circuits at about 25º.
- Proceed to gradually increase the water temperature until finally reaching 45º, keeping it so for several days.
The heating should finally be turned off approximately 48 hours prior to the start of the microcement installation on the radiant floor, ensuring that the maximum temperature does not exceed 18ºC.
Application of microcement on the radiant floor
Between 3 or 4 weeks should be allowed for the cementitious mortar to enter an advanced stage of setting. The time may vary depending on the climate.
Subsequently, it will be checked that the mortar is almost completely dry, with a maximum moisture content of 5%. Once all these requirements have been met, it will be time to proceed with the application of microcement on the floor.
Turning on the radiant floor heating after the microcement installation
We have reached the final phase of the process where it will be checked whether the entire installation has indeed been carried out step by step correctly. If the execution process has been rigorously followed, as we have explained, the results should be successful. However, the installation has not yet finished, next we will show you the final steps to achieve a high quality microcement radiant floor.
- You should wait 48 hours once the microcement has been correctly applied to the radiant floor. Once this time has passed, the heating can be turned on again.
- The switch-on will be carried out gradually, proceeding to raise about 5º each day.
- The temperature will be changed in a staggered manner at the beginning and end of the heating usage.
- Check that the ambient humidity is not excessively low.
- Try to prevent the heat from accumulating in specific points due to the use of rugs or being in a confined space.
Microcement problems in radiant floor
As with all decorative materials, there are certain problems or drawbacks that can arise if the installation is not satisfactory or if the product is not of high performance. It is for this reason that we urge you to make a small increase in the investment, especially if it is something you intend to keep in the long term.
In the case of microcement radiant floors, we have already mentioned how essential it is to have experienced labor and to know the product in detail, as well as to acquire a material that remains in perfect condition over time. If this is not the case, the problems that we are going to discuss next on your radiant floors could occur, which would mean a much greater expense.
Slippage of the relaxation layer
The slippage of the relaxation layer is one of the most common problems that can arise with microcement in a radiant floor. This problem occurs when the layer of microcement slips over the thermal insulation layer. This can be caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials. It is important to repair the problem immediately, as this can cause irreversible damage to the radiant floor.
Water leaks
Another problem that may arise is a water leak. This problem occurs when the cement cracks and water seeps through it, affecting the radiant floor system and potentially causing significant damage.
Thickness of the microcement
Excessive thickness of the microcement can arise if the applicator has not made a uniform application of it, leading to a cement that becomes too thick and cannot be applied correctly. This interferes with the heating performance.
MyRevest the best option for radiant floor
As we have mentioned before, it is essential to bet on a high performance product and experts who know how to do their job skillfully.
At MyRevest we specialize in the manufacturing, design, and sale of microcement. We have experience that has made us real experts in the product and everything that surrounds it, allowing us to offer a quality material with demonstrable success guaranteed.
Would you like to know more about the application of microcement on radiant floors? In that case, contact our experts and they will be happy to solve any questions you may have.