The first step is to call or email us so we have a better understanding of your project. We can then make specific recommendations based on your needs and the needs of the project. Our goal is to become your heating partner, helping to manage this portion of the home while providing the information you need to make the best decision for you and your client.
Architects & Designers
Whether your project is in the early concept stage, materials planning or out to bid, Warmboard can be integrated with ease.
Early Design Stage:
There are many advantages to connecting with Warmboard in the early stages of your project, one of which is our Bound Into Plans (BIP) program.
This program applies to “Panel Only” projects which are 100% radiant and have over 2000/sf of heated space, waives design fees in exchange for Warmboard being specified within the architectural bid set documents. BIP is an asset to the designer in a number of ways:
- Consistent Bidding – When every contractor is quoting the same system, the architect and homeowner have a far easier time comparing bids
- On-Site Plan Set – Binding Warmboard’s design drawings into your plan set ensures everyone on the job has access to the information they need.
- Increased Finished Product – Warmboard’s detailed plans are incorporated into your bid set as your own – we can even add your title block alongside ours.
- Holds Spec – With a set of Warmboard designs bundled into a bid set, we help architects and homeowners get the home they want.
To work with our BIP program, here’s what we’ll need from you.
Floor Plans – In PDF or AutoCAD (dwg or dxf), including joist layout (if Warmboard-S) and elevations with window and door details, if available.
Phone Call – We’ll need about 10-15 minutes on the phone with you to ask questions about zoning, manifold locations, joist direction, boiler location, fuel source, etc. We’ll also discuss which of our product offerings could be best for your project.
Project Confirmation – In exchange for waiving our design and engineering fees, you agree in writing (email is fine), that we will be included in the bid set.
Material details:
Traditional approaches to radiant systems have always required a lot of space for the mechanical equipment. We’ve significantly reduced this requirement by improving and streamlining the approach to these mechanical areas. Here’s some information about the size and space requirements for the equipment we’ll provide.
Mechanical Components:
- The Warmsource gas boiler measures 17w x 48h x 17d.
Minimum recommended clearances for easy access are 46w x 86h x 48d - The Warmsource Flex gas boiler consists of 2 units each measuring 17w x 24h x 17d.
When installed side-by-side, minimum recommended clearances for easy access are 46w x 42h x 48d - The Warmsource electric boiler measures 24.5w x 33.5h x 13.25d.
Minimum recommended clearances for easy access are 46w x 62h x 48d - Warmsource should be installed in an area that is somewhat isolated from living spaces as it will make some noise (common to all boilers and mechanical equipment).
- 2-port manifolds require a minimum of 14” x 36” mounting space. The required space for each manifold increases by 2” in width up to a maximum 26” x 36” space for our 8-port manifold
- Our preliminary layouts show boiler size and manifold dimensions on the cover page for easy reference.
- If not using WCS and going with a “panels only” solution, manifold space will be the same, though mechanical space requirements will change depending on the heat source and technology the installer is using
Flooring
Choosing Warmboard for your radiant system means expanding your options for finish flooring. No other radiant company has thought about what goes on top of your radiant floor as much as we have.
- Hardwood – From engineered to wide plank, we have numerous hardwood manufacturers who endorse their products for use with Warmboard (other flooring brands can also be installed).
- Tile and Stone – We have 7 tested and warrantied tile assembly recommendations, including 6 that have been approved by the The Tile Council of North America (TCNA)
- Carpet – Use a carpet pad designed for radiant such as a slab foam rubber pad
- Cork – The use of an underlayment is required. We recommend a ¼” APA listed plywood (sanded face). Be sure to allow adequate time to acclimate. Follow the stencil method, as with the backer board tile application, as this will help avoid tubing damage.
- LVF/LFT – Use of an underlayment is required. We recommend an APA listed, plywood (sanded face) or OSB. Choose a thickness of ¼” or ½” in order to match floor heights and be sure to allow adequate time to acclimate. Some clients may prefer using a backer board, especially if it is used elsewhere throughout the house. If choosing backer board for your underlayment here, acclimation is not necessary.
- Linoleum – Choose a thickness of ¼” or ½” APA listed plywood (sanded face) or OSB. If using a wood product as an underlayment be sure to acclimate. Backer board may also be used as an underlayment.
Sound Attenuation
We can recommend floor assemblies using Warmboard and other materials offering STC and IIC ratings over 50 to help mitigate sound transfer. Although light weight concrete has been used to manage sound in the past, it’s a poor conductor and makes your radiant system very slow. To compensate, you’ll need to add a noisy and costly forced air system. Our solution is simple, effective and allows for a heating system that is 100% radiant – comfortable and quiet.
Finish floor interface
When using radiant and prioritizing sound attenuation you’ll want to pay attention to finished floor heights. The method you choose to install your flooring will affect the height of your floor assembly. Our sales team can work with you to make sure this detail is accurate.
Design work and sample plans
Founded by an architect, Warmboard believes that good plans result in good projects. Our in-house design team produces the highest quality drawings in the industry, expertly drawn and bringing detail and clarity to every installation. Here’s what’s included:
- Preliminary drawings
- Engineered drawings (WCS projects)
- Panel and tubing drawings
- Detail drawings for commonly asked questions
- Warmboard Specification pages (Panels, Tubing/Manifolds, Boiler, Controls)
Ready to get started?
To take the next step, upload your plans and we’ll get started. If you have more questions, visit the Contact page and we’ll get in touch with you soon.