Install Instructions

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Do not use solvent based adhesives or pre-mix mortars because they are not as heat
resistant and do not conduct heat well.
• When installing over HeatMatrix, read and follow the instructions given with the HeatMatrix
product. Apply the mortar by filling all voids in the HeatMatrix with the flat side of the
trowel, then comb to ensure 100% coverage. Avoid lining up tile grout lines with joints
between sections of HeatMatrix.
•
Select the proper size trowel for the installation of tile or stone. We recommend a minimum
3/8" x 1/4" trowel. This trowel works well for most ceramic tile. A thicker thin-set can
be used if required. Select the thin-set thickness in accordance with the floor covering
requirements.
•
For additional information on tile installation, please contact TCNA at 864-646-8453 or
visit their web site at www.tileusa.com, or contact NTCA at 601-939-2071 or see their
web site at www.tile-assn.com.
•
When installing floor coverings other than tile or stone, follow industry and/or manufacturer’s
recommendations. Ensure the wire is first covered with a layer of self-leveling cement
based mortar, letting it cure fully before applying any surface underlayment, floating wood
or laminate flooring, carpet, etc.
•
With 3" or 3.5" spacing, the combined R-values of all floor coverings over the wire should
not exceed R-2.5. With 2.5" spacing, the combined R-value should not exceed R-1.5. Higher
R-values will diminish performance and trap too much heat. Consult the floor covering
manufacturer to verify compatibility with radiant electric heat.
• Make sure nails, screws, or other fasteners do not penetrate the floor in the heated area.
The wire can easily be damaged by fasteners penetrating the floor.
• All floor coverings must be in direct contact with the cement-based mortar encasing the
wire. Do not elevate the floor above the mortar mass.
•
Do not install 2" x 4" wooden nailers (sleepers) on top of a slab for the purpose of attach-
ing hardwood. Any air gap between the heating wire and the finished floor covering will
drastically reduce the overall output of the heated floor.
• Care should be taken when laying area rugs, throw rugs, and other surface products on
the floor. Most products are okay to use, but if in doubt, consult the product manufacturer
for compatibility. Do not use rubber backed products.
•
When placing furniture make sure an air clearance of at least 1-1/2" is available. Furniture
able to trap heat can damage the heating system, the flooring, and the furniture over time.
• After floor coverings have been installed, take resistance readings of the cable again to
make sure it has not been inadvertently damaged. Record these readings in the Cable
and Sensor Resistance Log (Table 4).
Phase 10 - Install Insulation
Insulate under the subfloor for better performance and efficiency of the system. Refer to the
Appendix for diagrams and insulation recommendations.