reclaimed parquet, bitumen and underfloor heating

Jointybear

Hi

I am thinking of laying parquet (glued onto ply) on top of underfloor heating and, ideally, would prefer reclaimed parquet. However, I know most of reclaimed parquet has bitumen on it which is a real time-consuming task to remove. I have seen lots on ebay but one lot in particular is described as not having a thick layer on and that it can be laid without scraping it off. I have been sent a sample and it does only have a thin layer. But I wonder, does anyone know if this can affect the performance of the ufh? I would have the fitters use the special conducting glue appropriate for ufh.

Many thanks

Tall_Tone

In my opinion, don't bother.

The biggest problem is the UFH which can soften the bitumen which will create a smell and secondly, how will you fix it? no glue manufacturer would recommend sticking to a bitumen layer as you have no idea how strong the stuff is. Your only option here would be to nail through the tongue.

The other problem with reclaimed is that they are all different thicknesses. Unless you want a very uneven floor you will have to sand it back to bare wood which takes time and money particularly if the boards vary greatly, you will then re-seal the floor and it will look like new wood. So why not start with new wood.

Sorry to seem negative, but I am not a big fan.
Lay the UFH, install the ply, stick new blocks with a quality glue, sand smooth and apply a quality matt lacquer and the floor will look fantastic.

Jointybear

Hi

Thanks for this...I have read a bit more now and agree with you!

Tall_Tone wrote: »

In my opinion, don't bother.

The biggest problem is the UFH which can soften the bitumen which will create a smell and secondly, how will you fix it? no glue manufacturer would recommend sticking to a bitumen layer as you have no idea how strong the stuff is. Your only option here would be to nail through the tongue.

The other problem with reclaimed is that they are all different thicknesses. Unless you want a very uneven floor you will have to sand it back to bare wood which takes time and money particularly if the boards vary greatly, you will then re-seal the floor and it will look like new wood. So why not start with new wood.

Sorry to seem negative, but I am not a big fan.
Lay the UFH, install the ply, stick new blocks with a quality glue, sand smooth and apply a quality matt lacquer and the floor will look fantastic.