Whether a floor covering is suitable for underfloor heating depends on the thickness of the material and its thermal conductivity. The thermal resistance can be determined from these two factors. First, it is necessary to convert the thickness (d) of the material into metres. Then this value is divided by the thermal conductivity (λ) to obtain the thermal resistance (R).
The calculation formula is therefore R=d/λ.
For a floor covering to be suitable for underfloor heating, the thermal resistance of 0.15 m²K/W must not be exceeded.
Below are some reference values:
Material         StrengthThermal resistance Laminate9 mm0,044 m²K/W    Parquet8 mm0,038 m²K/W    Cork (on backing)11 mm0,129 m²K/W    Vinyl (on backing)7 mm0,016 m²K/W    Design floor4 mm0,032 m²K/W    PVC2 mm0,010 m²K/W    Linoleum3 mm0,017 m²K/W    Natural stone20 mm0,017 m²K/W    Ceramic tiles13 mm0,012 m²K/W    Fine stoneware10 mm0,010 m²K/W    Carpet8 mm0,010 m²K/W    Nadelvlies7 mm0,012 m²K/W
** These are only indications. Please refer to the data sheet of your desired floor covering for the exact specifications.