It’s a question we hear often, and it generally comes from those accustomed to using thin slab systems. This type of radiant heat often requires tubing to be installed every 6 inches (or closer) in order to provide sufficient heat. Warmboard is able to use tubing every 12 inches because of our superior conductivity. In fact, to match our heat output, thin slab would require tubing every 2 inches!
Thin slab, and gypsum concrete, are not conductive materials. They were not intended to transfer heat, and instead these materials absorb it like a sponge. Because of this, tubing must be used every 4 to 6 inches to increase heat output to try provide even, consistent comfort to the interior space in a timely manner.
Warmboard is coated with thick aluminum, which like any metal surface, heats up quickly and evenly. Because of this, our 12 inch tubing spacing is sufficient to heat a home quickly and evenly.