Brick floors on trend for underfloor-heated homes

Bricks are an unusual material for domestic flooring. They are often associated with old farmhouses, but they have also become a trend for new homes with underfloor heating.

Speaking to Livingetc, a Director of Mustard Architects, John Norman, said:

“The benefits of a brick floor is that they are hard-wearing, warm-up beautifully over underfloor heating and have a wonderful warmth as a material.”

Made from natural clay, brick is a sustainable material. Bricks require little maintenance and look better as they age and wear. Their orange and pink colours add richness and warmth to a room. Brick flooring can be expensive, but reclaimed bricks can be used. Brick floors are suitable for inside or outside areas and can connect the garden to the house.

Bricks of the same colour can be used, or for an interesting pattern effect, mix brick shades on the floor. The bricks can be laid in various traditional patterns, including herringbone, basketweave and stretcher bond.

In addition, brick flooring is not easy to install. Hire an experienced professional installer who is used to working with bricks, especially when laying bricks over water or electric underfloor heating. A flexible floor tile adhesive should be used to secure the bricks to prevent cracking caused by small expansion and contraction movements as the floor heats up and cools down.

For wet areas such as kitchens and washrooms, the porous bricks need to be coated with a sealant to make the floor waterproof. A sealant also prevents mould and cracks from appearing in the bricks.

For those wanting to invest in underfloor heating, brick is a flooring option worth considering.