Heated Floors in the Kitchen: Are They Right for You?
There’s nothing like stepping into your kitchen on a chilly morning and feeling warmth underfoot. Tile floors, which can often feel cold to feet fresh out of a warm bed, become cozy and inviting. For homeowners who spend a lot of time cooking or entertaining, the comfort of radiant heated floors can make a big difference.
Radiant heating is one of those pleasant amenities that homeowners dream about, especially during the dark depths of New England winters. While most people think of heated floors in bathrooms, some clients ask if it’s worth bringing the same comfort into the kitchen. At KitchenVisions, we’ve heard both the appeal and the hesitations. So, what should you do with your floors when planning your next kitchen remodel? Will heated kitchen floors be worth it for you and your family? Let’s take a moment to consider the details before deciding one way or the other.
Heated Kitchen Floors - Types of Radiant Heat
Regarding radiant heating for flooring, there are two primary systems: electric and hydronic.
Electric heat is installed as a heat net under specific areas. It’s relatively inexpensive to install, but operational costs can be higher due to its lower energy efficiency. It’s ideal for small zones, such as in front of a sink or an island prep area.
Hydronic heat uses hot water running through pipes under the floor. Although it’s more expensive to install, it can be more cost-effective to run, especially if you’re already using a hydronic system elsewhere in the house. Plumbing access from below is usually required. These systems came into focus in the 1980s and have improved/evolved ever since.
electric heating system under flooring
hyrdronic heating system under flooring
An engineered wood floor works better with radiant heat than solid hardwood, which can expand and contract. Tile remains the top choice for kitchens with heated floors, while cork and luxury vinyl can also be compatible.
Homeowners love their radiant systems because they distribute heat evenly, eliminating drafts and cold spots as they work to supplement your main heating system and, in some cases, lower energy bills.
Would Heated Floors Be Appreciated in Your Kitchen?
Here’s the honest truth: while about half of our clients request radiant heat in bathrooms, only a small percentage, maybe 5%-10% choose it for kitchens. Why? Well, the initial cost is high, and kitchens are usually warmer than bathrooms to begin with, thanks to appliances like ovens and ranges. For many, it makes sense to prioritize bathrooms before tackling the kitchen.
Jodi’s Take
Heated kitchen floors are a luxury, not a necessity. But if you love the idea and have the budget, it can be a wonderful upgrade. If you’re weighing where to invest, start with bathrooms. They’ll give you the most noticeable return on comfort.
Thinking about heated floors in your kitchen renovation? Let KitchenVisions help you weigh the options and design a system that fits your lifestyle.
As one of the premier kitchen designers in Boston, we’d love to hear what you’re after.