Replies

1. 
   constantin | Jan 30, 2006 01:58pm | #1

   There are lots...

   Quicktrack, Raupanel, Thermofin-U, Roth, Climate Panel, etc. Many people like the Raupanel and the Thermofin approach best (lowest possible water temperatures), though I am happy with the climate-panel in our home.

   If you want to DIY the floor plates, the best thing you can do is to find an enthusiastic heating contractor that'll do everything but the floors. That could save a lot of money and yet result in a professional heating system. Luminaries like Northeast Radiant, or Hydronic Pros can also be hired to design a whole house system for you, simply follow their layout for heating nirvana.

   HTH, C.

1. 
   user-89436 | Jan 31, 2006 10:01am | #3

   Thanks for the advise.

2. 
   NRTRob | Jan 30, 2006 09:03pm | #2

   thanks Constantin, I appreciate the good word.

   If you are DIY'ing, then there are a few best options.

   If you are looking for the ultimate in performance, then Warmboard, replacing your subfloor, is king of the hill. Raupanel is second for prefab-panel options, and would go on top of your subfloor.

   However both of those are pricey. For many DIY'er, a small compromise in performance and a lot of extra labor can save money. This is a Thermofin "U" sandwich, using plywood and extruded plates.

   For a bit less performance, which is often quite adequate, a lightweight sandwich can be done instead, using lighter plates. This also saves more money.

   What is best for you depends on your loads, your available time, your budget, and the type of system you want. Some people want the best, and some want a good solid system but have to watch the pocketbook more closely, and so some compromises... hopefully small ones... can be made to achieve this.

   -------------------------------------
   -=Northeast Radiant Technology=-
   Radiant Design, Consultation, Parts Supply
   http://www.NRTradiant.com
3. 
   69STINGRAY | Feb 04, 2006 11:31pm | #4

   Mark, here is acompany I have come across that appears to be geared a little more towards the DIY'ers from what I can tell. Mice website, lots of info.

   http://www.radiantcompany.com/