Installing flooring over Mapeheat floor-heating systems

By Denise Troiano and Joseph Smith

“Can I turn on the heat before installing my flooring?”

We receive many questions regarding the installation of flooring over our Mapeheat floor-heating systems, but the above question is the most common.

The answer is no. We require that you keep the heat off before the installation of your floor covering; for tile installations, keep the heat off for a minimum of three days beforehand.

In addition, keep the heat off at least three days after a tile installation before activating the heating cable. For other flooring, keep the heat off seven days afterwards before cable activation.

Just regrouting? Turn off the heat the day before grouting and three days after grouting.

If you are using an in-floor system to heat your home and are unsure how to install flooring before the rooms are at the proper temperature for an installation, we recommend that you provide temporary heating to get the room and floor at an acceptable temperature. This temperature should be based on the installation materials that are being used.

Remember, heated floor systems require hookup by a licensed electrician.

Denise Troiano
Denise Troiano brings 24 years of experience in the tile, stone and installation products industry to MAPEI. Working with manufacturers, retailers, designers and installers during this span allows her to answer a wide range of questions from homeowners and industry professionals.

Joseph Smith
Prior to coming to work at MAPEI, Joe worked in the tile industry for 40+ years as an installer, and for 38 of those years he owned a contracting business. He now uses that real-world experience and knowledge to help customers while working as a Technical Support Advisor for MAPEI.