Question about laminate and underfloor heating

I am trying to reduce the costs for our new construction as much as possible through own work. Actually, I wanted to lay the laminate floating over the underfloor heating myself. But now a craftsman has warned me that without bonding, gaps may form. In addition, I have to expect energy losses. Now I have several questions: Why can gaps and heat losses occur with floating installation, and is it easily possible for a layperson to install the laminate with bonding?

"Floating installation" means installing on a foam layer. These foam layers not only insulate impact sound but also heat. Overall, the laminate floor construction (vapor barrier, impact sound mat, and laminate) must not exceed the value of 0.15 m² K/W for thermal resistance. The surface temperature of the laminate floor must not exceed 24°C, as otherwise the material dries out and shrinks > formation of gaps. Also, do not lay carpets, runners, etc., as heat accumulation will also cause damage to the laminate.

Above all, you must ensure that the manufacturer approves the laminate floor for use over underfloor heating (make sure to read the installation instructions).

Heating costs will be higher compared to a tile covering. Heating the rooms will also take longer when comparing the thermal resistance of an adhesive ceramic tile of an average 0.02 m² K/W to that of a floating laminate floor of an average 0.14 m² K/W.

This question also arises and my husband wants underfloor heating and I want laminate flooring. What was written here before, that makes sense to me. Thank you very much for this information.

It is very important that this laminate is suitable for underfloor heating. The floor installer had pointed this out to us. It is true that heating the rooms takes a little longer in severe winter. But other than that, I am satisfied.

We have underfloor heating and laminate flooring on top of it. I am very satisfied with it and I like it when it is nicely warm from below in winter. Before the laminate was installed, we contacted a floor layer and he gave us some advice. Also, which laminate to use, we got that advice from him as well.

Hi Sandraholster,

Thank you very much for your suggestions. I think it is also right to consult a professional. No man loses any face by doing so. My husband is always a bit strange about this matter.

Best regards