Do you dislike stepping on cold tiles every morning when you go to the bathroom? Do you wish you could enjoy a warm and cosy feeling under your feet as you get ready for the day? If so, you might want to consider installing heated floors in your bathroom. Heated floors, also known as underfloor heating, are a system of electric wires or water pipes that run beneath the floor surface and radiate heat upwards.
They can provide a comfortable and even temperature throughout the room, as well as reduce energy costs and improve air quality. This guide will explain everything you need to know about installing heated floors in your bathroom, including the benefits, the types, the costs, and the process.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
What are the Types of Heated Floors for Your Bathroom?

There are two main types of heated floors that you can install in your bathroom: Electric and Hydronic. Here are the main differences between them:
Electric heated floors
Electric heated floors use a network of thin wires that are connected to a thermostat and a power source. The wires heat up when electricity passes through them and transfer heat to the floor. Electric heated floors are easy to install, as they can be laid on top of the existing floor and cut to fit any shape or size.
They are also cheaper to buy and operate, as they do not require any pipes, pumps, or boilers. However, they can be more expensive to run in the long term, as they consume more electricity than hydronic systems.
Hydronic heated floors
Hydronic heated floors use a system of water pipes that are connected to a boiler and a thermostat. The water is heated by the boiler and circulated through the pipes, which heat up the floor. Hydronic heated floors are more efficient and eco-friendly, as they use less electricity and can be powered by renewable sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps.

They are also more suitable for larger areas, as they can heat multiple rooms at once. However, they can be more difficult and costly to install, as they require plumbing work and floor excavation. They can also be more likely to leak or damage, as they involve water and pressure.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Installing Heated Floors in Your Bathroom?
The cost of installing heated floors in your bathroom can vary depending on several factors, such as:
The type of heated floor system
Electric heated floors are generally cheaper to install than hydronic heated floors, as they require less labour and materials. However, hydronic heated floors can be cheaper to run in the long term, as they use less electricity and can be powered by renewable sources.
The size of the bathroom

The larger the bathroom, the more heated floor system you will need, which will increase the cost. However, you can also save money by installing heated floors only in the areas where you need them, such as around the shower or the sink, rather than the whole floor.
The flooring material
The type of flooring material you choose can affect the cost of installing heated floors, as some materials are more compatible and conductive than others. For example, tiles, stone, and concrete are ideal for heated floors, as they can withstand high temperatures and transfer heat well. However, wood, laminate, and vinyl can also work, as long as they are compatible with the heated floor system and have a suitable underlay.
The installation process
The installation process can vary depending on the type of heated floor system and the flooring material. For electric heated floors, you will need to lay the wires on top of the existing floor and cover them with a thin layer of self-levelling compound or tile adhesive. For hydronic heated floors, you will need to dig up the existing floor and lay the pipes in a pattern, then cover them with concrete. You will also need to connect the pipes to the boiler and the thermostat. The installation process can take from a few hours to a few days, depending on the complexity and size of the project.

What is the Average Cost of Installing Heated Floors?
The average cost of installing electric heated floors in your bathroom can range from €580 to €3,480 and homeowners might expect to pay between €100 and €200 per square metre for electric underfloor heating.The average cost of installing hydronic underfloor heating in ireland ranges from €24 to €48 per square metre for new construction and €48 to €72 for retrofits, depending on the factors mentioned above. However, this is only an estimate and the actual cost may vary depending on your specific situation and preferences. Therefore, it is advisable to get quotes from several reputable contractors and compare them before making a decision.
What is the Step by Step Process of Installing Heated Floors in Your Bathroom?
The process of installing heated floors in your bathroom can vary depending on the type of heated floor system and the flooring material. However, here are some general steps that you can expect:
Step 1: Plan your project
Before you start installing heated floors in your bathroom, you need to plan your project carefully. You need to decide which type of heated floor system you want, how much area you want to cover, what flooring material you want to use, and where you want to place the thermostat and the power source.
You also need to measure your bathroom and draw a layout of the floor, marking the locations of the fixtures, the pipes, the wires, and the sensors. You also need to check the building regulations and the warranty terms of your heated floor system and your flooring material.
Step 2: Prepare your bathroom

Before you install your heated floor system, you need to prepare your bathroom. You need to remove the existing flooring, the baseboards, and the furniture. You also need to clean the subfloor and make sure it is level, dry, and free of any cracks or damage. You also need to turn off the water and the electricity supply to your bathroom and test the heated floor system before installing it.
Step 3: Install your heated floor system
Depending on the type of heated floor system you choose, you will need to install it differently. For electric heated floors, you will need to lay the wires on top of the subfloor, following the layout you drew. You will need to use clips, staples, or tape to secure the wires and avoid any overlaps or gaps. You will also need to install the floor sensor and connect the wires to the thermostat and the power source.
For hydronic heated floors, you will need to dig up the subfloor and lay the pipes in a pattern, following the layout you drew. You will need to use clips, staples, or tape to secure the pipes and avoid any leaks. You will also need to install the floor sensor and connect the pipes to the boiler and the thermostat.
Step 4: Cover your heated floor system
After you install your heated floor system, you need to cover it with a suitable material. For electric heated floors, you will need to cover the wires with a thin layer of self-levelling compound or tile adhesive, making sure it is smooth and even. For hydronic heated floors, you will need to cover the pipes with concrete, making sure it is thick and level. You will need to wait for the material to dry and cure before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Install your flooring material
After you cover your heated floor system, you need to install your flooring material. You will need to choose a flooring material that is compatible and conductive with your heated floor system, such as tiles, stone, or concrete. You will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate tools and materials to install your flooring material.
You will need to cut the flooring material to fit the shape and size of your bathroom and lay it on top of the heated floor system, making sure it is aligned and secure. You will also need to seal the joints and edges of your flooring material to prevent any moisture or dirt from getting in.
Step 6: Finish your project
After you install your flooring material, you need to finish your project. You need to re-install the baseboards and the furniture, and clean the floor and the bathroom. You also need to turn on the water and the electricity supply to your bathroom and test the heated floor system.
You need to adjust the thermostat to your desired temperature and check if the floor is heating up evenly and properly. You also need to read the user manual and the warranty terms of your heated floor system and your flooring material, and follow the maintenance and care instructions.
Conclusion
To wrap up, installing heated floors in your bathroom not only boosts comfort but also elevates your home’s value. Choosing between electric or hydronic systems depends on your needs, but either way, the cosy warmth underfoot is transformative, particularly during Ireland’s chilly months. If you’re ready to enhance your bathroom with this luxurious feature, Galaxy Bathrooms is here to assist.
Our expertise ensures a seamless transition to heated floors, making your bathroom a warm retreat. Contact Galaxy Bathrooms for your installation, and step into a new level of comfort in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heated floors be installed under any type of flooring?
Heated floors can be installed under various types of flooring, including tile, stone, laminate, and some types of engineered wood, but it’s important to check compatibility with the manufacturer.
How energy-efficient are heated floors?
Heated floors are generally energy-efficient, especially when used with a programmable thermostat, as they provide direct heat and can be zoned to heat specific areas.
Are heated floors expensive to run?
The cost to run heated floors varies based on the system type, insulation, room size, and electricity rates, but electric systems are typically more expensive to operate than hydronic systems.
Can I install heated floors myself?
While DIY installation is possible, especially with electric systems, professional installation is recommended to ensure the system functions correctly and safely.
How long do heated floors take to warm up?
The warm-up time for heated floors can vary, but typically, electric systems heat up within 30-60 minutes, while hydronic systems may take longer due to the water heating process.
Do heated floors require maintenance?
Electric heated floors require minimal maintenance, but it’s important to monitor for any damage to the flooring. Hydronic systems may need occasional checks on the boiler and pump.