Your HVAC expert who is designing the system should explain the requirements that the manufacturer has for their particular system. In general, in your situation, you will need lower temperature loops closer together rather than the traditional higher temperature loops further apart. The whole system has to be designed for the water temperature that you will need, as well as the PEX placement distance. Floor coverings also has to be taken into account in the plan. Rubber and carpet actually have insulative power (R values), and are not conductive to easily passing the heat through into the home. That has to be calculated when designing the system, and it will increase the lag time to temperature changes, which is already radiant's biggest drawback.

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Hi vivaceonbrio! It took me a year to decide on a final decision on the floor I wanted to install. I decided on a wood look Italian, rectified, wood look porcelain tile in a random pattern. Rectified means you can install 1/16" grout line and butt up closely to the next tile. The color is all the way through so if by small chance it is chipped, the color is below. I found this tile at Home Depot. It's wasn't that expensive but the installation can be pricey. I love the look of wood. but the durability of tile. We have a pool and wet feet friends, grandkids and naughty pets. Our new dog has accidents and it's easy to sterilize and clean up. We installed 1700 sq ft and a dust mop everywhere (except the kithen needs a more frequent mopping) usually keeps it looking nice. Each floor photo looks like a different color, but it's exactly the same tile. The lighting, and reflection makes it look different in each room. We love our new floor.

When deciding on flooring for your new home, it's crucial to balance aesthetics and durability. While your current setup with solid hardwood and ceramic tiles exudes luxury, you've encountered some wear and tear over the years. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) offer a compelling alternative. They mimic the look of hardwood or tile but are more resilient to scratches and chips. LVP is known for its durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. Considering your preference for a long-term investment, luxury vinyl planks could be an excellent choice. They provide a luxurious appearance without sacrificing durability. To ensure a seamless installation and top-notch service, you might want to explore flooring options with experienced professionals. For instance, Vintage Flooring Company of Chicago, renowned as hardwood flooring contractors Chicago, could provide the expertise needed to transform your vision into reality. Their commitment to quality could be the key to achieving a luxurious yet durable flooring solution for your new home.