What are mats for heated floors with bosses, types, installation rules

Especially in the winter, heated floors are a popular option for keeping homes cozy and warm. Mats with bosses for heated floors are one of the special solutions available. These mats have a unique feature that makes installation easier in addition to offering efficient heat distribution.

The raised points, or "bosses," on boss mats allow space to be created between the floor and the heating cables. Better heat transfer and prevention of overheating are ensured by this design. These elevated spots also make it much easier and safer to install the heating cables.

Bosses are incorporated into a variety of mat types, each designed to meet particular requirements and installation preferences. Gaining the best performance and longevity out of your heated floor system can be accomplished by being aware of these kinds and adhering to installation instructions. This post will discuss the different kinds of mats that are available and offer clear installation instructions.

What are?

Mats with bosses, also known as mats with pimples, are a unique type of lining that is used when installing heated floors that run under water. This design is unique in that it has tiny cylinder-shaped protrusions on the surface.

They enable the coil to be firmly fixed on the material’s surface. This prolongs the heated floor’s service life and enhances its overall performance characteristics.

Rejecting the "bosses" is preferable if the TP’s design calls for a layer of reinforcing material. There is not much interaction between these two designs.

Basic requirements

Because of the peculiarities of their use, these designs are subject to certain requirements.

You should question the authenticity and quality of the model if it deviates significantly from the norm.

To mats

The mats themselves need to be made with a high load capacity in mind. Ultimately, they will be covered by floor covering, screed, and pipes. The material itself should not bend, and the bosses should not droop. The structure has a thickness of 10 to 35 mm, which guarantees these characteristics.

To pipes

Pipes composed of polyethylene or metal-plastic can be installed on such a structure. They should have a diameter ranging from 14 to 25 mm.

The pipes cannot be fixed firmly if they are laid with less thickness. They will hang, which will make things difficult when the finishing touches are applied.

A larger diameter pipe will cause it to start protruding from the top of the structure, making it impossible for it to fit into the nests (the bosses average height is 25 mm).

To finishing coatings

For mats with bosses, there are no precise specifications regarding the finishing coat. You can cover them with parquet or light-weight tiles, or you can install laminate or linoleum. However, the material’s weight must also be appropriate.

On such a substrate, professionals advise installing a light floor covering, like linoleum.

Heated floor mats with bosses provide uniform heat distribution throughout the floor, making them an effective way to keep your house warm. There are several varieties of these mats, each made to accommodate a different set of installation requirements and heating demands. Comprehending the various kinds of matting and adhering to the appropriate installation guidelines guarantees the best possible performance and longevity of your heating system, resulting in a warm and inviting home throughout the winter months.

Varieties

There are a wide variety of boss-equipped mats. Every one of them is designed to work under specific circumstances.

By the shape and size of the bosses

Bosses may be:

• round;
• square;
• polygonal;
• rectangular.

They range in height from 20 to 25 mm. However, the way the protrusions function within the structure is largely unaffected by their size and shape.

By the size of the pipes

Pipe laying with a diameter of 14–20 mm is permitted on these mats. The lining sheets can be joined together, so the length is not restricted.

In terms of mats

Mats with bosses range in length from 1016 mm to 5000 mm. From 516 to 1200 mm in width. Between 10 and 50 mm in thickness.

How to choose the right one?

The main consideration for selecting mats should be the environment in which they will be utilized. For instance, it is preferable to install models with a laminated layer in rooms with high humidity. This will extend the building’s useful life and shield apartment occupants from potential health issues brought on by the growth of mold in the space.

You should consider the structure’s thickness before making a purchase. For instance. The floor level will be significantly raised if the room’s mats are installed too thickly. The room’s doors will no longer close as a result. There just won’t be enough room for them.

Mats should not be purchased at markets or other questionable locations. Here, sellers frequently overlook the requirements for storage. The material becomes more brittle as a result. Even with their own weight, these mats are brittle.

It is advised to research the average price tag for the chosen model before heading to the store. Go to the manufacturer’s official website, if possible. The prices listed there and those in the store can’t be too different. A person is most likely dealing with a fake if he notices that the mat is substantially less expensive than it appears to be on the website. A retail store owner in his right mind would never sell a product for less than he paid for it.

If the price is significantly less, the store management probably just wants to profit from the well-known brand’s name. This is also not good in any way.

You should carefully inspect the product before making a purchase. There shouldn’t be any damage or unusual markings on it. Their existence is a reason not to purchase, as other flaws might be found when the mat is installed.

Top 5 popular models

WaterFloor WF

These manufacturer’s mats not only make it easy to install a warm floor, but they also enhance the flooring’s ability to insulate against heat and sound.

Their high level of fire resistance sets them apart. Slab length: 1200 mm. 600 mm is the width. Measurement of thickness: 71 mm. This starts with polystyrene foam that has been treated with a unique material. This makes it possible to lay practically any kind of screed over the mat. The average cost is 600 rubles.

Energofloor Pipelock 20/1.1-0.77

This foam mat is made of polystyrene and has clamps. It is 1100 mm long. 700 mm is the width. 20 mm in thickness. Here, the bosses are shaped like squares with rounded corners. High heat resistance is possessed by the substance. As a result, even the "hottest" heated floors can use it. The average cost is 650 rubles.

Knauf Therm

This model’s boards are made of polystyrene foam. Here, the bosses are circular. Between them are ribs that stiffen. These mats can serve as an extra layer of insulation. This serves as a sort of medium-diameter water pipe template. On the edges are "locks." This makes it possible for you to reliably and swiftly join various sheets. 1200 mm in length. 600 mm is the width. 47 mm is the thickness. The manufacturer stated that the product would last 100 years. The average cost is 350 rubles.

EKOPOL 20

This model has bosses in the shape of diamonds on the mats. You can place pipes between them that are between 14 and 17 mm in diameter. The mat’s top layer is laminated. Its durability and strength are increased by this. Here, the foam base is 38 mm thick. Length of sheet: 1100 mm. 800 mm is the width. The average cost is 560 mm.

WF 40/22 L

Mat composed of foam, 43 mm thick. It’s a vivid orange hue. Thus, builders will be able to promptly identify any errors made during the final screed installation.

The slab has a length of 1200 mm. The density and strength of the base material define it. It is even suitable for use in highly humid rooms. The average cost is 400 rubles.

Rules for calculating the required amount

A person’s life has been made easier in many ways by modern technologies. Online calculators are therefore the simplest and fastest way to figure out how many mats are needed for warm floors.

By creating an appropriate browser request, they can be found on the Internet with ease. There is no need for additional funding in order to use online calculators. They are openly accessible. All that needs to be entered in this case is the user’s property’s area. Everything else will be calculated for him by the system.

In the event that using an online calculator is not feasible, one can determine the necessary quantity of mats on their own. To begin with, you must ascertain the room’s and the sheet’s respective sizes.

Assume. In a space that is seven meters long and four meters wide, a man intends to install a heated floor. You must multiply these numbers to determine the room’s area. It will measure 28 square meters.

Standard mats measuring 120 cm in length and 60 cm in width will be used for the room’s installation. Each one has a surface area of 7.2 m^2. 120 by 60 is 7200 cm, or 7.2 m.

Once the required information has been obtained, the room’s area must be divided by the area of one sheet. 28:7.2 is equal to 3.8. Increase the number by one. As a result, four mats will need to be purchased for the task.

The material should be taken with a small reserve. It is better to be in a situation where several scraps of mats remain "for later" than in one where at the end of the work there is not enough coverage.

Features of application

Two categories of these structures exist:

• Ordinary.
• Laminated. Considered universal. It is equipped with a vapor barrier film. Accordingly, in the process of further installation of the floor, a person does not need to lay additional insulating material. Laminated mats can be used for both dry and wet screeds. Conventional – only for dry and semi-dry. Liquid solution can negatively affect their performance.

When constructing such structures, extra fasteners for pipes don’t need to be made. Bosses successfully carry out their role. However, the slabs themselves need to be fastened to the ground. If not, someone runs the risk of moving them when the final coating is being installed. And there are a lot of unpleasant repercussions from this.

It is not advised to install models without a protective coating in highly humid rooms. Plastic foam has the ability to absorb moisture. All those who live in the apartment permanently will experience a decline in health as a result of the formation of mold foci.

By installing mats with bosses for heated floors, you can reduce the amount of materials you use. For instance, one is no longer required to buy barrier and vapor barrier materials, or fastening components for pipes. Additionally, the final screed on such a coating is far superior to that of a traditional lining. Furthermore, mats serve as an extra layer of sound and heat insulation.

Trude installation rules

The primary distinction is that mounting fasteners and making initial markings are not required in this case. The unique pattern of the mats made this possible. Nonetheless, the builder must unambiguously follow the pipe of the pipe. If not, the heating element’s efficiency will be low.

Installing mats with bosses is similar to laying a warm floor over other kinds of lining in every other way.

Advantages and disadvantages

Benefits

• durability (the declared service life is from 50 to 100 years);
• ease of installation;
• universality;
• Suitable for any type of screed;
• act as an additional heat and soundproof layer;
• increase the tightness of the room;
• Most models have a castle connection;
• the presence of marking;
• resistance to moisture and high temperatures;
• low cost.

High fire danger is a flaw.

Review Reviews

Mats with bosses are highly appreciated by users of review sites and forums. They point out that these designs make installing heated floors easier. Comparatively speaking, work is finished much faster with these pads. Polystyrene foam holds heat and prevents the passage of water.

Negative remarks are also present, though. Some individuals believe that these structures are overpriced. Some object to the material’s low density.

You can read real reviews here, here and here.

Useful video

Fascinating details regarding boss mats:

Type	Description
Standard Mats	These mats have evenly spaced bosses and are used for basic heating needs. They are easy to install and suitable for most rooms.
Custom Mats	Custom mats are tailored to fit specific room dimensions or layouts. They offer flexibility in installation but may require professional help.
High-Density Mats	These mats have more bosses per square meter, providing better heat distribution and efficiency. They are ideal for large spaces or areas with high heating demands.
Low-Density Mats	Featuring fewer bosses, these mats are used for areas where heat distribution is less critical. They are often more affordable but may not heat as evenly.
Installation Rules	Ensure the surface is clean and dry before installation. Lay the mats out, making sure the bosses are in contact with the floor. Connect the mats to the heating system according to the manufacturer"s guidelines.

Bosses on heated floor mats are a practical way to add warmth to your area while ensuring even heating and better comfort. Knowing the various kinds of mats that are available will help you select the best solution for your requirements, whether hydronic or electric systems are what you’re looking for. Every variety has a unique set of benefits and is appropriate for various situations and price ranges.

It is essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions when installing these mats in order to guarantee correct operation and safety. Be mindful of details such as boss spacing, alignment, and compliance with plumbing or electrical codes. By doing this, you can prevent problems and make sure your heating system functions properly.

You can have a warm, inviting space all year long if you choose your mats wisely and adhere to installation guidelines. Investing in high-quality heated floor mats can improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, regardless of whether it’s being built from scratch or renovated.

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