Should You Install Underfloor Heating Upstairs?

A practical guide for renovation projects.

Underfloor heating is very popular on ground floors, but many people wonder whether it’s worth installing upstairs as well. The answer depends on your priorities, budget, and how the upper floors are used.

Pros and Cons of Upstairs Underfloor Heating

Advantages

• Very even and comfortable heat
• No radiators taking up wall space
• Works well with heat pumps
• Good for bathrooms and bedrooms
• Cleaner look with no visible heating

Disadvantages

• Higher upfront cost
• Adds floor height (can affect doors and stairs)
• Slower to respond than radiators
• More complex installation on timber floors
• May not be necessary in well-insulated homes

When It’s Usually Worth Installing Upstairs

You want a consistent heating feel throughout the whole house
You’re doing a major renovation with new flooring upstairs anyway
You have (or are installing) a heat pump
You want to remove radiators for a cleaner look
You have young children or elderly family members who benefit from even heat

When It Might Not Be Worth It

You’re on a tight budget
Upper floors are only used occasionally
You have good existing radiators that work well
Floor height is very limited (especially on timber floors)
You plan to move in the next few years

Our Recommendation

For most renovations, we recommend installing underfloor heating on the ground floor as a priority. Upstairs is more of a personal choice.

Many people choose to do underfloor heating in bathrooms and main bedrooms upstairs, while keeping radiators in less-used rooms. This gives a good balance between comfort, cost, and practicality.

Planning underfloor heating as part of a renovation?

Use our Underfloor Heating Calculator to get recommendations based on your floor type and project.

Open the Underfloor Heating Calculator Try the Combined Estimator