Did you know that starting this year, installing a new gas boiler during major renovations in Flanders is definitively a thing of the past? This acceleration in the energy transition raises questions among many homeowners…

Did you know that, starting this year, installing a new gas boiler during major renovations in Flanders will definitively be a thing of the past? This acceleration in the energy transition raises questions among many homeowners about the future of their living comfort and the dreaded electricity bill. Perhaps you are worried about whether your PVC flooring is compatible with electrical systems, or you are dreading a complex technical installation that you would rather leave to professionals. It is perfectly understandable that you seek certainty before making the switch to a gas-free home.

In this complete guide for 2026, you will learn how to install infrared underfloor heating step-by-step for an energy-efficient home with optimal living comfort. We show you that installing infrared underfloor heating is a strategic choice that ensures a healthier indoor climate without bothersome dust circulation. Thanks to the favorable shift in energy tariffs and the rise of smart control, a warm floor is now more accessible than ever. We walk you through the entire process, from the necessary insulation layers to integration with your smart home system, so that you enjoy a low-maintenance solution that lasts for generations.

What is infrared underfloor heating and why should you install it?

Infrared underfloor heating is an innovative technology in which wafer-thin carbon mats are placed directly beneath the floor finish. Unlike traditional water-based systems, which often react slowly and require a thick layer of screed, this system works with direct electric radiant heat. What exactly is infrared underfloor heating? It is a technique that converts energy directly into long-wave infrared radiation, comparable to the healthy warmth of the sun. Installing infrared underfloor heating is therefore a smart move for those looking for a fast response time and minimal build-up height. This is a huge asset, especially in renovation projects, as the mats are often only a few millimeters thick and you hardly need to raise the existing floor.

Radiant heat versus air heating

Most traditional heating systems work on the basis of convection. They heat the air, which then circulates through the room. Infrared works differently. It directly heats the objects, the floor, and the people in the room. Because the air itself is not the carrier of the heat, a very even temperature distribution is created without the familiar cold spots near the windows. A major advantage for your health is that there is hardly any airflow. As a result, dust and pollen do not swirl through the room, which is a relief for people with allergies or asthma.

The benefits of a maintenance-free system

If you choose this system, you choose ultimate convenience. There are no pumps that can seize up, no filters to replace, and no mandatory annual inspections by a technician. The carbon foil has no moving parts and is therefore virtually impervious to wear and tear. Installing infrared underfloor heating means investing in a solution that lasts for decades without extra worries or maintenance costs. It is a reliable way to make your home future-proof.

The link between comfort and energy efficiency is essential in a modern home. Thanks to instant operation, you do not need to turn on the heating hours in advance. This saves energy, especially when you combine the system with a smart thermostat that only heats when truly necessary. As part of the energy transition in Belgium, an electric infrared system offers a CO2-free path to a warm home. When you combine this with your own solar panels, you create a sustainable cycle in which you directly convert your own green electricity into delightful warmth at your feet.

Preparation and supplies for a successful installation

Good preparation is the foundation of any sustainable home heating solution. Before you actually start installing infrared underfloor heating, it is essential to thoroughly inspect the condition of the current subfloor. It must be completely flat, dry, and stable. Unevenness greater than 2 millimeters can eventually damage the wafer-thin heating foil due to point loading. Ensure you have all necessary materials neatly at hand. This includes the infrared foil itself, pressure-resistant insulation boards, vapor barrier foil, and the specific tape to hold everything in place. Do not forget that the thermostat and the associated floor sensor form the brain of your new system. They monitor safety and ensure that the floor never reaches an excessively high temperature, while simultaneously keeping your energy consumption as low as possible.

Which floors are suitable for infrared foil?

Infrared foil is ideally designed for so-called 'dry' flooring systems that are installed floating. This makes the system perfect for laminate, wood parquet floors, or floating PVC. However, it is crucial that you never glue the floor finish to the foil or the subfloor. Glue can hinder the natural shrinkage and expansion of the materials during temperature changes, which does not benefit the lifespan of your floor. When choosing your floor, also pay attention to the thermal resistance, the R-value. For a comfortable and efficient result, the total R-value of the entire floor structure must not exceed 0.15 m²K/W. The lower this value, the faster the radiant heat fills your living room or bathroom.

Creating a custom layout plan

A well-thought-out installation plan prevents unforeseen problems during installation. Accurately draw out the room and determine exactly where the foil strips will be placed. Take the arrangement of your furniture into account. It is important to keep areas clear under cabinets with a flat bottom that rest directly on the floor. Heat cannot escape here, which can lead to unwanted heat buildup. Furniture with legs of at least 5 centimeters poses no problem for airflow. During the planning phase, also calculate the total power per square meter to check if your electrical circuit can handle the load. Plan the wiring route smartly along the edges of the room so that you can later conceal it invisibly behind the skirting boards. For a professional installation plan that is precisely tailored to your unique living situation, you can always ask our specialists for advice without obligation.

During the preparation phase, also bear in mind that the specific reflective insulation boards play a crucial role in efficiency. These boards ensure that heat is directed upwards instead of disappearing into the concrete floor. According to technical guidelines, you must always install this insulation with the reflective side facing down for the best effect. By taking these details seriously, you lay the foundation for a system that functions trouble-free and extremely comfortably for years to come.

Step-by-step plan: installing infrared underfloor heating in 7 steps

Now that the preparations have been made and your installation plan is ready, it is time for execution. The process of installing infrared underfloor heating is straightforward, provided you work accurately and systematically. In seven clear steps, you can transform any room into an oasis of comfort. We start with the basics: the floor must be completely swept clean and dust-free before the first insulation board touches the ground. After all, every grain of sand can create a point load on the foil, which we absolutely want to avoid for the optimal lifespan of the system.

The crucial role of insulation

The first three steps of the process revolve around creating a solid and heat-efficient base. Once the floor is clean, lay out the pressure-resistant insulation boards over the entire surface. An essential detail that is often overlooked is the orientation of the reflective layer. Always place the insulation with the reflective side facing down. This ensures that infrared radiation is effectively directed upwards instead of heat unnecessarily disappearing into the cold concrete floor. Next, use high-quality aluminum tape to carefully seal all seams between the boards. This creates a necessary moisture barrier and prevents the boards from shifting when you roll out the heating foil in the next step.

Electrical connections and sensors

Steps four and five cover the technical aspects, where precision is paramount. The carbon mats are connected in parallel to the thermostat. This means that each strip receives its own direct connection, which increases the reliability of the entire system. The floor sensor is your most important tool for safe and energy-efficient operation. Position this sensor exactly in the middle between two heating strips. Never place the sensor directly on a heated area, as this will give the thermostat a distorted reading of the actual floor temperature. For a professional and perfectly flat result, grooving the subfloor is necessary. By cutting out small grooves for the wiring, connectors, and sensor, you prevent irregularities from becoming visible in your final floor finish.

Before taking the final two steps, a thorough test run is essential. Check all electrical connections and measure the resistance of the foil to ensure the system functions perfectly. Only when the test has been successfully completed should you cover the entire system with a protective vapor barrier foil. The final step is laying the definitive floor finish, such as your new laminate or PVC. Installing infrared underfloor heating requires some patience regarding the technical details, but the result is an invisible and low-maintenance source of comforting warmth that directly contributes to a healthy indoor climate.

Safety, thermostat and connection to your energy grid

Safety is absolutely paramount when you decide to install infrared underfloor heating. Although physically laying the foil and insulation boards is a rewarding job for the handy do-it-yourselfer, at Warmteshop we always advise having the final connection to the meter box carried out by a certified technician. Since April 1, 2026, the AREI regulations in Belgium have been specifically adapted to better accommodate modern electrical installations with solar panels and home batteries. A professional inspection not only guarantees that everything is connected according to the latest standards but is also essential for the validity of your fire insurance. This creates a reliable system that you can enjoy worry-free for years to come.

Smart control for every room

The thermostat is the brain behind your home comfort. With a smart infrared thermostat, you get the maximum return on your investment. Unlike traditional systems that often heat the entire house at once, infrared is perfectly suited for zone control. This allows you to heat only the rooms where you are actually present. You can easily adjust the temperature via an intuitive app on your smartphone, whether you are on your way home or want to preheat the bathroom from your bed. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption and ensures that you always step into a comfortable environment without the meter running unnecessarily.

The combination with renewable energy

An infrared floor is the ideal partner for a home with solar panels. At a time when installing new gas boilers during major renovations is prohibited, electric heating the path to a gas-free future. Your floor effectively acts as a thermal battery. By heating the floor a few extra degrees during the day, when your solar panels generate the most electricity, you store that free energy in the thermal mass of your home. The pleasant radiant heat is then slowly released throughout the evening, meaning you need to draw less power from the grid during peak times.

With the current average electricity price of approximately 16.23 euro cents per kWh in August 2026, smart control is becoming increasingly lucrative. Dynamic energy contracts make it possible to provide extra floor heating at times when the supply of wind and solar power is high and market prices are low. This makes infrared not only a healthy and stylish choice, but also a financially smart move for the long term. Would you like to know how to optimally integrate this system into your specific living situation? You can request a customized quote for your sustainable installation.

Comfort and sustainability: the result of a good installation

When the last skirting board is installed and the system switches on for the first time, you immediately experience why installing infrared underfloor heating is worth the investment. It is a luxury that goes beyond just a pleasant temperature. The absence of unsightly radiators gives you unprecedented aesthetic freedom in your interior. You can place furniture wherever you want, without having to consider heat sources that spoil the look of the room. This invisible heating creates a sleek and modern look that fits perfectly with the homes of 2026. Your home feels more spacious and peaceful, while warmth is present all around you without you seeing where it is coming from.

In addition to the visual aspect, the impact on your physical well-being is significant. Because there is no forced air circulation, the humidity in the house remains at a stable and healthy level. You no longer suffer from the dry air typical of old gas systems, which is a relief for your respiratory system, eyes, and skin. The result is a secure and homey feeling where you truly unwind in a climate that feels natural.

A wellness experience in your own home

Infrared heat is known for its deep penetration, which is a blessing for your muscles and joints after an active day. In the bathroom, you can further enhance this sense of wellness by combining underfloor heating with an infrared mirror. This way, you not only step onto a warm floor but are also surrounded by gentle radiant heat that simultaneously prevents condensation from forming on the mirror. Even in the bedroom, the even and silent heat distribution contributes to a deeper and more relaxed night's sleep, as the temperature remains constant without fluctuations.

Why choose Warmteshop?

For a major project like switching to electric heating, the right guidance is crucial. With over 18 years of experience, Warmteshop is your expert guide in the world of innovative heating solutions. We understand that every home is unique, which is why we offer personalized advice in our 30 showrooms spread across the Benelux. Our specialists take the time to analyze your situation and create a tailor-made plan. Would you prefer to hand over all technical concerns? Our in-house installation service ensures flawless installation from start to finish. Curious about the results for others? Check out our installation reviews from satisfied customers who are now enjoying an energy-efficient and comfortable home.

Installing infrared underfloor heating is a choice for a healthy, CO2-free, and stylish future. Through the combination of direct radiant heat, smart control, and aesthetic pleasure, you are investing in a solution that will last for generations. We cordially invite you to come and experience this unique warmth for yourself in one of our showrooms and take the step together towards a more sustainable living environment.

Switch to the heat of the future today

Choosing a sustainable and comfortable home starts with the right heating. You have discovered that infrared foil is not only a smart solution for renovations due to its minimal installation height, but also makes a direct contribution to a healthier indoor climate. By the installation of infrared underfloor heating with smart thermostats and your own solar panels, you are optimally prepared for the energy requirements of 2026. The result is a maintenance-free system that provides constant, comforting warmth without radiators disrupting your interior.

At Warmteshop, with over 18 years of expertise, we are ready to guide you every step of the way. Whether you decide to do the work yourself or engage our specialized installation service, together we ensure a result that meets all your requirements. Would you like tailored advice for your home? Request a no-obligation quote for your project or visit one of our 30 showrooms in the Benelux to experience the power of infrared for yourself. Turn your home into a warm and future-proof place where comfort and energy efficiency go hand in hand.

Frequently asked questions about infrared underfloor heating

Can I install infrared underfloor heating myself?

Yes, you can easily lay the insulation boards and foil yourself if you are handy. The physical part of installing infrared underfloor heating is relatively simple thanks to the dry system, which requires no demolition work. However, for the final electrical connection in the meter cupboard and the mandatory inspection according to AREI standards, we always recommend hiring a certified electrician. This way, you can be sure that your system operates safely and efficiently for years of comfortable living.

Is infrared underfloor heating suitable for under PVC or laminate?

This system is ideally designed for floating floors such as laminate and PVC. Because the carbon foil is wafer-thin, it hardly affects the floor height. It is important that the floor is not glued down and that the thermal resistance of the total floor structure remains below 0.15 m²K/W. This ensures that healthy radiant heat can warm your living room unhindered for optimal and energy-efficient comfort without heat loss.

How much does infrared underfloor heating consume per month?

Consumption depends heavily on the insulation level of your home and how smartly you program the thermostat. With an average electricity price of 16.23 euro cents per kWh in August 2026, efficient control is essential. By using solar panels and utilizing the floor as a thermal battery during the day, you can significantly reduce monthly costs. Moreover, a well-insulated room requires less energy to maintain the desired comfort temperature.

Do I need to break up my entire floor for the installation?

No, that is one of the biggest advantages of this system for renovations. You can lay the insulation boards and heating mats directly on a flat, existing subfloor. Installing infrared underfloor heating requires only a minimal build-up height of a few millimeters, including the insulation layer. As a result, you often don't even need to shorten doors, and disruption in your home is kept to an absolute minimum while you immediately enjoy more warmth.

Can I use infrared underfloor heating as my primary heating?

Absolutely, in modern, well-insulated homes with a favorable EPC label, infrared functions excellently as primary heating. The system responds much faster than traditional water-based underfloor heating, allowing you to accurately control the temperature per room via an app. In older homes, it is often used as comfortable supplementary heating in the bathroom or sitting area to eliminate the need for radiators and save on gas. It offers a sustainable solution for every type of home.

What is the difference between infrared foil and electric heating cables?

Infrared foil consists of wafer-thin carbon strips that emit radiant heat directly to objects and people in the room. Heating cables often work based on conduction and usually need to be embedded in a thick layer of leveling compound or screed. Foil is faster to install, has a lower build-up height, and responds more quickly to your heat demand. This makes foil the ideal choice for those who want to switch to electric heating quickly and without much demolition work.

Do I need a special thermostat for an infrared floor?

Yes, a thermostat with an external floor sensor is necessary for safe and efficient operation. The sensor measures the temperature directly at the foil and prevents your PVC or laminate floor from becoming too hot. At Warmteshop, we always recommend a smart thermostat that you can control via your smartphone. This allows you to accurately adjust consumption to your daily routine and take full advantage of the lowest grid energy rates.

Is infrared underfloor heating safe in the bathroom?

Yes, infrared floors are very safe for use in damp areas, provided the installation instructions are strictly followed by a professional. The foil is completely covered with a vapor barrier, and the electrical connections are finished watertight. The result is a wonderfully warm bathroom floor that also helps prevent moisture problems and mold formation. For a complete wellness experience, you can also beautifully combine this system in the bathroom with a Sunshower.

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DIY sustainable living saving energy infrared underfloor heating installing infrared underfloor heating renovation smart living heating without gas installing heating

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