| Floor Construction |  |
|
Joists The RetroHeat System is designed for use with typical wood and/or metal floor joists. The joists must have a facing width no greater than 2" with a spacing between the joist strips of 12", 16", or 24" on center.
Floor Surface The floor surface may be of any material having a total thermal insulation value of less than R-11 / RSI-2. This includes any floor finish such as tile, hardwood, or carpet, as well as secondary materials added to the floor at a later time. Contact the material manufacturer for specific information concerning the thermal insulation factor of the material being specified. Surface Finish Any type of surface finish can be applied to the finished floor-the total thermal insulation value of the subfloor and floor finish must not exceed R-11. Insulation The only types of insulation permitted with the RetroHeat System are:
|
| Floor Construction |  |
|
When designing the heating system, care must be taken to ensure that proper clearance is maintained from electrical fixtures, cabinetry, partition walls and other permanent features.
Permanent Features RetroHeat heating panels must be installed so that they will not be covered, even in part, by partition walls or other structures that cross the floor. Heating panels which are covered by any structures may overheat. Wiring Electrical wiring in the floor must be at least 2" away from the heating panels with a barrier of insulation filling that space. This space may be horizontal along the joist space. Surface Mounted Fixtures Do not install the heating panels closer than 8" from the edges of any electrical boxes for surface mounted fixtures in the floor since surface mounted fixtures may have additional trim which extend far beyond the edges of the electrical boxes. Recessed Fixtures At least 2" of clearance must be maintained between the trim of recessed fixtures or outlets and the heating panels. Heat Sources At least 8" of clearance must be maintained between heat sources and the heating panels. Pipes At least 2" of clearance must be maintained between any pipes (metal or plastic) and the heating panels. End of Joist Cavities Leave at least 6" of clearance at each end of each joist cavity to accommodate wiring and assembly. |