Home renovations are the perfect time to modernise, improve energy efficiency, and increase comfort—and one of the most popular upgrades in recent years is underfloor heating (UFH). But is it really worth the investment, particularly in a city like London where property types, space constraints and insulation standards vary widely? In this article, we’ll explore the costs, benefits, challenges, and real-world considerations of installing underfloor heating as part of a home renovation. Whether you’re updating a Victorian terrace, converting a basement, or remodelling a flat, this guide will help you decide whether UFH is the right choice for your home.
What Is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating is a system that warms your home by radiating heat from beneath the floor surface, rather than relying on radiators attached to walls. There are two main types: Electric (Dry) UFH uses heating mats or cables laid under the floor. Quicker and easier to install, especially in smaller areas like bathrooms. Water-based (Wet) UFH circulates warm water through pipes connected to a boiler or heat pump. Ideal for larger or whole-house installations. Each system type comes with its own cost and installation requirements, which are key factors to consider during a renovation.
Why Consider UFH During a Renovation?
The best time to install UFH is during a renovation. Here’s why: Easier floor access—floors are being lifted or relaid anyway. Freedom to reconfigure—you can redesign the heating layout without retrofitting challenges. Add value—energy-efficient systems can appeal to future buyers. Integrated design—no radiators mean more usable wall space and cleaner interior design. In London’s competitive property market, features like UFH can make your home stand out—particularly in high-end renovations.
Pros of Underfloor Heating in Renovated Homes
1. Comfort and Even Heat Distribution
Underfloor heating provides consistent warmth across the entire room. Say goodbye to cold feet or chilly corners—heat rises evenly from the floor upwards. This is particularly appreciated in bathrooms, kitchens and open-plan living areas.
2. Improved Energy Efficiency
UFH systems operate at lower temperatures than traditional radiators (around 27–45°C vs 60–75°C), yet still deliver a comfortable environment. This means they can be more efficient, particularly when paired with good insulation or modern heat pumps.
3. Better Aesthetics
Removing radiators frees up wall space for storage, furniture, or cleaner interior design—ideal for London homes where space is at a premium.
4. Zoned Heating Control
UFH systems often allow for individual room controls, giving you better flexibility and control over your heating bills.
5. Silent Operation
No noisy pipes, clanking radiators, or gurgling airlocks—just silent, ambient warmth.
Costs Involved in UFH Installation
Installation Costs
Electric UFH is typically cheaper to install but more expensive to run. Expect to pay £60–£100 per m² for materials and installation. Wet UFH is more expensive up front due to pipework, manifolds and connections: £100–£150 per m², depending on floor structure and system complexity. If you’re already laying a new floor during renovation, the additional cost is lower than installing UFH separately later on.
Running Costs
Electric UFH: Higher running costs due to electricity prices, but ideal for small areas. Wet UFH: Lower running costs, especially with condensing boilers or heat pumps. Long-term savings depend on your energy source, insulation levels, and how well the system is controlled.
Considerations Based on Property Type
Victorian and Edwardian Homes
Many London homes are period properties with suspended timber floors. Wet UFH can be installed by fitting pipework between joists, but floor insulation must be upgraded to prevent heat loss. Electric systems are often easier in upstairs bathrooms or small extensions.
Modern Flats and Apartments
Many newer builds already have concrete subfloors, making UFH (especially electric) a straightforward addition. Be mindful of floor height build-up, especially where door thresholds or existing fixtures are fixed.
Basement Conversions
UFH is excellent for basements, as it helps reduce damp and creates a cosy, dry space. Insulation is critical—always include a thermal break between the slab and the heating system.
Loft Conversions
Electric systems are lightweight and ideal for converted lofts where water pipework might be hard to route.
Challenges and Drawbacks
1. Floor Height Build-Up
UFH adds height to your floor (especially wet systems). In older London homes with low ceilings or tricky thresholds, this may require door and skirting adjustments.
2. Installation Disruption
Although renovation is the best time to install UFH, it still requires planning. For wet systems, you may need to adjust plumbing layouts and allow drying time for screeds or levelling compounds.
3. Initial Cost
The up-front investment can be substantial, especially for larger spaces. However, this is offset over time by lower energy bills and added property value.
4. Response Time
UFH systems are slower to heat up than radiators, so they work best when left on a timer or thermostat schedule rather than used sporadically.
Is UFH Suitable for All Floor Types?
Some floors work better with UFH than others. During renovation, flooring choice matters: Best options include tile & stone (high thermal conductivity, quick to heat), engineered wood (more stable than solid wood under heat), and vinyl & laminate (compatible with UFH if manufacturer-approved). Avoid or use with caution: thick carpets (high tog values restrict heat flow), and solid wood (prone to warping if exposed to high or fluctuating temperatures). Always consult flooring manufacturers to confirm UFH compatibility.
Planning and Installation Tips
Work with Specialists
Always use qualified heating engineers with UFH experience. In London, this is especially important due to varied property types and building regs.
Prioritise Insulation
Without good insulation (especially under the UFH system), you’ll lose much of the heat into the subfloor. This is critical in older homes and basement spaces.
Use Smart Controls
Smart thermostats with zoning control allow you to fine-tune the heating in different rooms and avoid energy waste.
Future-Proof Your Home
Even if you’re not using a heat pump now, a water-based UFH system installed during renovation makes your home ready for low-carbon upgrades in future.
Is Underfloor Heating Worth It? A Summary
Yes—if you’re already renovating, underfloor heating is absolutely worth considering, especially for high-use rooms like kitchens and bathrooms. It offers long-term comfort, improved efficiency, and a more streamlined look for modern living. When it’s most worth it: You’re replacing floors anyway, you want to remove radiators and free up wall space, you’re planning to stay in the home long-term, you have good insulation (or plan to upgrade it), you want to add value to a high-end property. When it may not be worth it: You’re on a tight renovation budget, the area is very small and won’t justify the cost, you have no insulation or can’t afford to improve it, or you need fast, reactive heating instead of steady warmth.
Final Thoughts
Underfloor heating is a future-proof investment for many London homeowners—especially when planned as part of a renovation. With careful consideration of your property type, energy source, insulation, and usage habits, UFH can offer an efficient, luxurious and modern heating solution that adds real value to your home. If you’re unsure whether your home is suitable, consult with a qualified UFH installer or heating engineer during the planning stages. A tailored approach will ensure you get all the benefits without costly surprises.