In the UK, we are fortunate to have many stunning older homes, rich in charm, character, and history. From Victorian terraces to Georgian townhouses and cosy cottages, these properties often come with original features worth preserving. However, they can also be draughty, expensive to heat, and challenging to modernise without losing their heritage appeal.

A common question from homeowners is: “Can underfloor heating work in an older property?” The short answer is yes — and it’s often easier than you think. Below, we separate myth from reality so you can see how underfloor heating can bring 21st-century comfort to even the most traditional homes.

1. Myth: You Can Only Install Underfloor Heating in New Builds

Reality:

Thanks to modern overlay systems, underfloor heating can be fitted in older properties without the need for major building work. Overlay boards sit directly on top of your existing floor (if the floor is very uneven then you may need to self level first). This means minimal disruption, no digging up floors, and much faster installation.

This approach works beautifully for retrofits — from single rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to whole-house installations.

2. Myth: Thermostat Installation Damages the Walls

Reality:

With today’s wireless thermostats, there’s no need to chase wires into your walls or redecorate after installation. Wireless controls make it simple to add heating zones to your home, giving you precise control over temperatures in different rooms.

These smart thermostats can even be managed via an app, allowing you to adjust your heating from your phone — perfect for second homes or energy-conscious households.
See our range of thermostats and controls.

3. Myth: Underfloor Heating Takes Up Too Much Space

Reality:

Older properties sometimes have lower ceilings, leading to concerns about floor height. But there’s good news: underfloor heating systems now come in low-profile designs. Options like 12mm pipework and slim boards such as NovaFix add very little height, flooring choices such as LVT and Vinyl are slim and budget friendly options

This means you can enjoy the benefits of warm floors without compromising your ceiling height or needing to adjust doors and skirting boards.

4. Myth: You Can’t Mix Underfloor Heating with Radiators

Reality:

You can absolutely combine underfloor heating with other heating methods. Many homeowners choose a mixed approach, using underfloor heating in open-plan areas, kitchens, and bathrooms, while keeping radiators in bedrooms or less frequently used spaces, and log or multi-fuel burners in Living rooms and Snugs.

This flexibility allows you to make the most of both systems — and with separate thermostats for each zone, you can choose which heating source to use depending on the weather, time of day, or your personal preferences.

Why Underfloor Heating is Ideal for Older Homes

Beyond the myths, underfloor heating offers a range of benefits for older homes:

-            Even heat distribution: No cold spots, just consistent warmth across the entire floor.

-            Better energy efficiency: Lower running temperatures mean reduced energy bills, especially when paired with modern boilers, heat pumps, or renewable energy sources.

-            Space-saving design: Without bulky radiators, you can place furniture wherever you like, creating more design freedom.

-            Improved comfort: No more cold tiles in kitchens or bathrooms — just cosy, warm floors underfoot.

The Bottom Line

Underfloor heating isn’t just for modern, newly built homes. With the right system, you can bring this luxurious and efficient heating solution into almost any property — without damaging its character or charm. Whether you want to heat a single room or your entire home, there’s an underfloor heating option to suit your needs.

Ready to explore your options?

Get a free bespoke quote or speak to one of our advisers to help you discover underfloor heating for your home info@soleheat.co.uk or call us on 0161 504 7082