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Launstein
Hardwood Flooring Co. is currently running many different tests on how
wood floors react to direct heat from radiant floor systems. As members
of the Radiant Panel Association, we feel it is our responsibility to
publicize our findings to the public. Furthermore, we want the public
to understand how wood floors are compatible with radiant floor systems.
These
facts are a result of our own testing and not necessarily the opinions
of other companies. Understanding the difference between quartersawn and
plainsawn flooring can help with your decision of what flooring to purchase.
Quartersawn wood flooring is always more stable under conditions of extreme
moisture or heat,
and is always a good choice over radiant heat, especially when going with
flooring wider than 4 inches.
Plainsawn wood will move more than quartersawn especially when it is over
4 inches wide.
Red Oak Plainsawn 4" width over radiant heat |
Quatersawn Hickory 4"-7" random width over radiant heat
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Both
floors were tested at a surface temperature of 80-85 degrees with no visible
problems. We do not recommend going any higher than 85 degrees on your
floor surface. The 3/8" solid wood floors averaged 5-7 degrees warmer
than the 3/4" wood floors, with the water temperature at 115 degrees.
We do recommend a humidity level of at least 40% in the colder months
when the floors are constantly kept at 85 degrees.
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Launstein Floors of Mason, Michigan