In Quebec, more and more homeowners are opting for underfloor heating to improve the comfort of their homes. But how do you choose between electric and glycol floor heating systems? What are the differences, prices, advantages and limitations of each option?
On this page, we’ll guide you through all the steps: from operation to average costs, including the best coatings and the professionals to hire.
All you have to do to compare prices is fill in the form at the bottom of the page to get 3 free, no-obligation quotes.
Table of contents
Underfloor heating: how does it work?
Underfloor heating is a heating system that is integrated directly into the floor, distributing heat evenly by radiation. There are two main types: electric and glycol (or hydronic). These solutions are gaining in popularity in Quebec for their comfort and energy efficiency.
Electric or glycol underfloor heating: what are the differences?
Choosing between an electric or hydronic system depends on several criteria: project size, budget, building type and desired efficiency.
Electric underfloor heating
It works with heating cables laid under the floor covering. Easier to install, it’s ideal for small rooms or renovations.
Glycol floor heating (hydronic)
This system uses a solution of water and glycol heated by a boiler, circulating through pipes integrated into the concrete slab. It is more expensive, but cost-effective for large surfaces or new buildings.
Advantages and disadvantages of underfloor heating
Before making your choice, take the time to evaluate the advantages and limitations of each option. This clear and useful comparison will help you make up your mind.
Advantages of an in-floor heating system
- Constant, pleasant heat
- Lower long-term energy costs
- Aesthetic (no visible radiators)
- Ideal for bathroom and basement floors
Disadvantages of an in-floor heating system
- High installation costs
- Limited floor coverings
- Increased complexity of renovation work
- Costly repairs
Another factor to consider when renovating a floor is the price!
And Soumissions Plancher offers you the opportunity to compare 3 free quotes for your floor heating project, whatever the model. All you have to do is fill out a short form, and we’ll get you a price comparison!
How much will underfloor heating cost in Quebec in 2025?
Underfloor heating represents a significant investment.
Floor heating installation costs vary according to system type, surface area and project type. Here’s an overview of average prices.
Here’s an overview of the costs associated with the purchase and installation of underfloor heating in Quebec in 2025!
| Electric underfloor heating | Approximate cost: $10 to $15/ft². |
|---|---|
| Small project (e.g. bathroom, 50 ft²) | 500 $ à 750 $ |
| Medium-sized project (e.g. kitchen, 150 ft²) | 1 500 $ à 2 250 $ |
| Large project (e.g. basement, 500 ft²) | 5 000 $ à 7 500 $ |
| Glycol floor heating (hydraulic) | Approximate cost: $12 to $20/ft². |
|---|---|
| Small project (e.g. bathroom, 50 ft²) | 600 $ à 1 000 $ |
| Medium-sized project (e.g. kitchen, 150 ft²) | 1 800 $ à 3 000 $ |
| Large project (e.g. complete house, 1,000 ft²) | 12 000 $ à 20 000 $ |
What factors influence the price of underfloor heating?
The cost of underfloor heating doesn’t just depend on the type of system. A number of factors can influence the cost.
- Total area to be covered
- Installer's hourly rate
- Type of floor covering (ceramic, concrete, wood)
- Project complexity (renovation or new construction)
Why do prices vary between hydronic and electric flooring?
Because their installation method is completely different! Hydronic floor heating consists of pipes buried in the concrete floor of a house, and is powered by an electric furnace.
Electric underfloor heating, on the other hand, consists of “carpet” in which serpentine heating wires are installed. The work required to install such systems is therefore completely different, and this explains the cost discrepancies.
Renovation vs. new construction: a major difference for underfloor heating!
Installing a glycol floor is a realistic and affordable option when building a new home, since the concrete floor has not yet been poured. However, installing a hot-water system becomes considerably more expensive and complex in a renovation project.
Since the electric floor is simply inserted under the floor covering, it’s generally a more affordable solution for a renovation project.
What are the best floor coverings for underfloor heating?
When installing underfloor heating, the choice of floor covering is an essential consideration. Why is this?
Not all flooring materials are suitable for underfloor heating. It’s crucial to choose wisely for optimum performance.
Here are the main floor coverings suitable for electric and hydronic underfloor heating systems:
Ceramics
Ceramic flooring – and any other natural stone covering – has virtues that contribute to the diffusion of warmth in a room through the effect of heat radiation.
That’s why ceramic flooring is generally the best option for covering a heating system, whether electric or glycol.
Concrete
Like ceramic tiles, concrete floors have natural qualities that facilitate heat transfer. Epoxy-treated floors therefore offer optimum performance for radiant heating. What’s more, concrete is a very trendy floor design.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood is a floor covering glued to the floor, and is highly resistant to heat and water. That’s why many choose to install it in kitchen floors, and why it’s recommended as a covering for heating systems.
WARNING Certain floor coverings must be avoided for underfloor heating!
Wood, laminate and carpet floors, to name but a few, are completely unsuitable for underfloor heating systems. Their characteristics make them very poor conductors of heat, which limits the floor’s ability to function.
Which professionals should be hired to install underfloor heating?
Installing underfloor heating requires a certain amount of expertise.
And to ensure proper, compliant installation, you need to turn to the right professionals in the field. Electricians, plumbers and tilers are the main contractors called upon to help you when installing underfloor heating:
An electrician
An electrician is needed to connect the electric floor heating system! He will also be needed to connect the furnace and the glycol floor heating control panel. No matter which model you choose, you’ll need an electrician to operate your radiant floor.
A plumber
Opting for a glycol floor? Plumbers are the professionals best placed to install the hot water pipes that run through the floor! The slightest installation error can compromise the floor’s integrity, so make sure you hire a competent professional!
A tiler
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for underfloor heating. And ceramic installation necessarily means tiling services!
Indeed, this professional is a true specialist in ceramic installation, and it’s an expertise you can’t do without to optimize your underfloor heating.
Would you rather install an engineered or vinyl floor?
In this case, you’ll need a qualified carpenter to install your floor covering properly! And no matter what type of covering you choose, Soumissions Plancher is THE resource to help you find the best deal.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about installing electric or glycol floor heating systems
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions about installing electric or glycol (hydraulic) floor heating in Quebec:
What type of underfloor heating is best for my Quebec home?
- Electric flooring is ideal for small rooms or renovations.
- Glycol underfloor heating is preferable for large surfaces or new buildings.
How long does it take to install underfloor heating?
- For a small room, it takes about 1 to 3 days.
- A hydraulic floor can take several days or weeks to install, depending on size and system.
Do I have to remove the existing floor covering to install underfloor heating?
Yes, usually the existing floor must be removed to install cables or pipes.
Can underfloor heating be installed under all types of flooring?
Yes, but certain materials such as tiles, concrete and stone work better because they conduct heat well. Carpets and parquet flooring require special precautions.
Are floor heating systems effective in Quebec winters?
Yes, underfloor heating offers optimum comfort and can complement or replace a traditional heating system.
How much does an electric underfloor heating system consume?
An electric underfloor heating system consumes around 10-15 watts per square foot when in operation. This can represent an additional cost on your electricity bill.
Are glycol floor heating systems more economical than electric ones?
In the long term, yes, especially for large surfaces. They are more expensive to install, but often more economical to operate.
Can I install underfloor heating myself?
An electric underfloor heating system can be installed by an experienced DIYer. A hydraulic floor, on the other hand, requires professional skills.
Can underfloor heating be combined with other heating systems?
Yes, it can complement electric baseboard heaters, radiators or centralized systems.
How long does underfloor heating last?
- For electric underfloor heating: around 20-30 years.
- For hydraulic underfloor heating: 30-50 years (if well maintained).
What are the maintenance costs?
- Electric underfloor heating requires little maintenance.
- For hydraulic underfloor heating: periodic maintenance of the boiler or pump.
Do underfloor heating systems require regular inspections?
Hydraulic systems require periodic inspections to check glycol and components.
Are underfloor heating systems safe?
Yes, modern systems are equipped with overheating protection.
Can I benefit from subsidies or tax credits for installation in Quebec?
Yes, programs like Rénoclimat or Chauffez vert can offer incentives to improve energy efficiency.
Compare 3 free quotes for your floor heating system!
There’s no point hiding it: underfloor heating comes at a price!
However, the cost of installing such a system pays for itself over the years, and gives you a level of comfort that no other heating system can provide.
Curious to learn more and compare customized quotes?
Fill out our short form at the bottom of the page, and Soumissions Plancher will compare 3 quotes from floor heating installation contractors in your area.
