Underfloor Heating for a Large Oxford Self-Build
A fully bespoke underfloor heating system designed and installed for a large new-build home in Oxford. Engineered across concrete and overlay floor constructions, the low-temperature system delivers consistent comfort, high efficiency, and seamless performance throughout the property.
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Technologies Designed and Installed on this Project
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Underfloor Heating
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Heat Pumps
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Solar Panels
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MVHR
Project Challenges
A key challenge on this large Oxford self-build was designing and installing underfloor heating across two very different floor constructions while ensuring the system operated as one balanced, low-temperature solution.
At ground floor level, the system was installed within a concrete slab, with pipework securely clipped to the insulation prior to the pour. This required precise setting out and coordination to ensure correct pipe spacing, coverage, and protection, as once cast, adjustments are not possible.
On the first floor, a lightweight overlay system was specified using EPS boards with a foil surface, into which 16mm pipework was laid. The challenge here was achieving the same heat output and response times as the ground floor, while working within structural height constraints and maintaining efficiency.
Both systems had to be carefully designed and commissioned to operate seamlessly together and in harmony with the Vaillant air source heat pump. Detailed heat loss calculations, zoning, and flow balancing were critical to ensure consistent performance, comfort, and efficiency across the entire home despite the differing floor build-ups.
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The home is cosy all year round
Results
The completed heating system delivers consistent, low-temperature comfort across both floors of this large Oxford new-build, despite the differing floor constructions. The concrete ground floor provides excellent thermal mass, allowing the underfloor heating to maintain stable temperatures efficiently, while the first-floor EPS overlay system offers faster response times without compromising comfort.
Both systems operate seamlessly together as a single, balanced solution, fully optimised to work with the Vaillant air source heat pump. Careful commissioning and flow balancing ensure even heat distribution throughout the home, supporting low flow temperatures and high system efficiency.
Combined with the on-site solar PV, the homeowner benefits from reduced energy demand, lower running costs, and an all-electric, future-ready heating system. The result is a quiet, unobtrusive setup that complements the scale and design of the property while delivering reliable, sustainable performance from day one.
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