To ensure a comfortable environment on your balcony or loggia, there are two rational methods: install a heated floor system and glaze these spaces with high-quality window constructions, such as those offered by Salamander. This way, you'll no longer need to bundle up when stepping out onto your balcony or loggia!
Heated Floor Systems for the Loggia or Balcony
Thoughtful homeowners always strive to use every square foot of their living space effectively, especially when space is limited. Areas adjoining the building can be transformed into an office, living room, or relaxation room. However, in the winter season, heating is essential, leading many to consider installing a heated floor system on their loggia by themselves. This is a wise choice, as such heating systems offer significant benefits:
- The ability to regulate the room temperature at any time as desired;
- Even heat distribution across the floor surface;
- A comfortable intensity of temperature change – the lower part of the room is warmer than the upper.
There are two main types of heated floor systems – water-based and electric. Water-based systems require connection to central heating and laying pipes under the floor screed. They are more expensive to install but offer high efficiency and low operating costs.
Electric heated floor systems are often chosen for balconies and loggias as they are simpler to install and do not require connection to central heating. Their installation is cheaper, but the electricity costs will be higher. Electric systems are divided into cable and film types:
- Cable systems consist of a heating cable laid in the floor screed. They provide stable and even heating but require a more complex installation.
- Film systems are flexible heating mats or films that can be simply laid under the flooring. They are easier to install but are less durable and may create uneven heating.
When choosing an electric heated floor system, it is important to consider the power and heating area. For a balcony or loggia measuring 6-8 sq.m., a system with a power of 600-800 Watts is sufficient. The approximate cost of materials and installation of an electric heated floor is from $30 to $60 per sq.m.
In terms of operating costs, heating a balcony or loggia will cost about $5-8 per month if the heated floor is used for 8 hours a day.
Main Steps of Installing a Heated Floor System
An electric heated floor system on the balcony is an excellent solution when you need to insulate without extensive renovation, as the film with heating elements emitting infrared rays can simply be laid on a flat surface and covered with any type of flooring.
Installation steps:
- Cleaning the base from the previous flooring and debris;
- Laying thermal and waterproofing materials. This is necessary to prevent heat loss from the heating elements and increase the efficiency of the cable's operation;
- Installing DSP (particle board);
- Laying the cable, considering the distance between the turns of the heating cable (5-10 cm) and the distance along the balcony (the denser, the fewer bends);
- Checking the system for operational state of sensors and thermostat;
- Pouring the base for the final floor;
- Laying the flooring. It can be anything – laminate, parquet board, linoleum, tile.
A heated floor system on the balcony, installed according to all rules, will serve for many years, pleasing you with its autonomy and rational use of space each time.
Choosing Windows for the Balcony or Loggia
Once the heated floor system is successfully installed, the next step in creating a comfortable atmosphere on the balcony or loggia will be replacing old wooden window frames with modern energy-efficient constructions. Properly selected windows will not only improve thermal insulation but also add an aesthetic appearance to the glazed area.
When choosing windows for your balcony or loggia, pay attention to several key factors. Firstly, prefer products from verified manufacturers with years of experience and impeccable reputation in the market. Salamander, for instance, offers a wide range of window systems made from high-quality PVC profiles.
Secondly, decide on the type of opening that best suits your balcony or loggia. Salamander offers turnable, sliding, tilt-and-turn, and combined options, allowing you to choose the optimal solution based on your preferences and the characteristics of the space.
Thirdly, don’t forget about energy efficiency. Modern double-glazed windows with low-emissivity coating and inert gases in the inter-pane space provide excellent thermal insulation, keeping warmth inside and preventing condensation.
Well-chosen windows for the balcony or loggia, combined with the heated floor system, will create ideal conditions for transforming these spaces into fully functional rooms for work, relaxation, or other purposes.