Heating mat or cable: what to choose for underfloor heating

An electric underfloor heating system consists of two key components: a heating element (mat or cable) and a thermostat. Most often, buyers wonder which to choose—a heating mat or a cable? Let's break down the differences and help you decide.

What is a heating mat?

A heating mat is a thin heating cable, pre-attached in a "snake" pattern on a self-adhesive mesh with a fixed spacing. The mat is unrolled onto the surface and does not require a thick screed, so it barely raises the floor level. This is an ideal solution for renovations and installation under tiles, laminate, parquet, and vinyl. FTMAT mats have a specific power of 150 W/m² and quickly heat the floor. In our catalog, such solutions include, for example, the FTMAT heating mat in aluminum foil.

What is a heating cable?

A heating cable comes in coils and is laid manually with the desired spacing, usually in a cement screed. This type of installation takes more time and increases the floor height, but offers flexibility: the cable can cover a room of any shape and provide the required power. The cable is a good choice for new floors, large areas, and rooms with complex geometry. For example, we offer the FTSCABLE single-core cable for screed installation, as well as the FSL self-regulating cable for heating pipes, roofs, and gutters.

Comparison: mat vs. cable

What to choose for you

If you are doing cosmetic repairs and don't want to raise the floor level, choose a heating mat. If you are pouring a new screed or need to cover a large room with a complex shape, choose a heating cable. In both cases, you will need a thermostat, which maintains the temperature and saves electricity.

Conclusion

Both mats and cables provide comfortable, even heating—the difference lies in the installation method and application scenario. Let us know the area of the room and the type of flooring, and we will help you choose the optimal kit. Delivery throughout Tashkent and all of Uzbekistan.