How to pour radiant heat concrete floor over existing concrete floor

Q. Is there an answer to installing a heated hot water floor system over the existing concrete floor? How much room would you need to pour over and cover it.

I do have high ceilings and could give up 2 Plus inches. is that enough?

A. We have poured many radiant heated concrete floors over existing concrete floors. I am not the one who designs the heating system, I install the concrete floor.

I can tell you what I have seen done.

1. A bond breaker like Typar is laid over the existing concrete floor. Wire mesh is laid on top of the Typer and the radiant heat tubing is tied to the wire mesh. Then, 2 - 3 inches of concrete is poured for a new concrete floor.

2. 1 inch of styrofoam is laid over the existing concrete floor. Wire mesh is laid on top of the styrofoam and the radiant heat tubing is tied to the wire mesh. Then, 2- 3 inches of concrete is poured for a new concrete floor.

I am not sure which method is best, talking to a radiant heat specialist will help you answer this question.

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