ᐅ Is Concrete Core Activation Practical for a Slab Foundation in a Bungalow?

Hello,

I am currently planning a bungalow without a basement (168sqm (1810 sqft)) with a heat pump. The exterior facade is almost entirely glazed, resulting in a high U-value for the overall building. The heat load calculation shows that thermal activation of the concrete core in the ceiling does not provide enough capacity to heat the rooms above 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) during winter; it will probably be even cooler near the windows. So far, I have planned to include underfloor heating as an additional heat source. There is also some input on this topic here in the forum. Alternatively, I am considering thermal activation of the concrete core in the slab.

Question: Does anyone have experience using thermal activation of the concrete core in the slab instead of underfloor heating? What are the advantages and disadvantages? What should one pay attention to?

Thanks for your input

victoriafaelle schrieb:

I am currently planning a bungalow without a basement (168 sqm (1810 sq ft)) with a heat pump. The exterior facade is almost entirely glazed, resulting in a high U-value for the overall building. The heating load calculation shows that concrete core activation in the ceiling does not provide enough output,

With more insight into your design, it would probably be possible to offer more effective help.

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11ant schrieb:

With more insight into your design, it would probably be possible to offer you more useful help.

Sure, what information do you need?
I am interested in the advantages and disadvantages of using concrete core activation in the slab compared to underfloor heating. Does it make sense to install concrete core activation in the slab (heating only) and in the ceiling (heating and cooling)?

victoriafaelle schrieb:

Sure, what information do you need?

Almost everything else, as we hardly know anything about your house. Without that, it’s impossible to suggest alternatives to the actual "problem" (the space not being effectively heatable) other than with

victoriafaelle schrieb:

I’m interested in the pros and cons of concrete core activation in the floor slab compared to underfloor heating. Does it make sense to install concrete core activation in the floor slab (heating only) and in the ceiling (heating and cooling)?

Simply increasing the heating surface area of an inefficient method to add more heat losses doesn’t sound like a smart approach. The crowd favorite won’t help if the applause is outweighed by the drawbacks.

With so little information, the advice offered by well-meaning helpers will remain guesswork.

Unfortunately, many brilliant do-it-yourself planners fear good advice to revise their concept and instead hope for supporters of their ideas. But you won’t hear, “Just go full throttle on the wrong path, and it will work out great!”

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https://www.instagram.com/11antgmxde/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bauen-jetzt/

As far as I know, insulation is placed on the ground slab, and the screed is poured on top of that.
If you then "activate" the ground slab, you are essentially only heating the ground because the insulation is on top of the slab.
Where do you see the advantage in this?

Underfloor heating, however, makes sense. That way, you heat the screed.

victoriafaelle schrieb:

Question: Does anyone have experience with using concrete core activation in the slab instead of underfloor heating? Pros and cons? What should be considered?

No, not personally.
This is often marketed as a "Swedish slab" and is a fairly standard option. You can find more information online.
A disadvantage is, for example, a slower response time compared to typical underfloor heating. However, you need a construction company experienced in this method. Since there is no screed, you require a perfectly flat concrete slab (this is where all other pipes, like electrical and water, are embedded). An advantage is the avoidance of thermal bridges to the rising masonry or the ability to drill into the floor without damaging the activation system (which is installed fairly deep), within certain limits. Also, you eliminate the need for screed.