In recent years, hydronic radiant floor heating has
become increasingly common throughout the U.S.
It's widely viewed as one of the most comfortable
forms of heating in kitchens and baths, especially
where tile floors are
involved. As the technology
has grown
more popular, radiant heating is being used more and
more in other rooms of the house as well.
Radiant floor heating does have its limitations, however.
Let's say a heated floor gets covered with a heavy
carpet and pad: It's like throwing a blanket over a radiator;
the floor can't release heat into the room fast
enough. Full-thickness solid wood flooring can also act
as an insulator. The same is true where much