Gaia installs low-carbon underfloor heating

November 20, 2023

Underfloor heating specialist Gaia are designing, supplying and installing energy-efficient underfloor heating in over 250 houses within Taylor Wimpey’s new development in Barham, Suffolk. Taylor Wimpey’s new development – Churchfields – which is located in the Suffolk village of Barham, will be on the receiving end of these systems, for its 257 new homes. This came about after Taylor Wimpey opted to fit low-carbon and future-proofed heating solutions in the development.

“Gaia HQ is local to the Churchfields site, so once we heard Taylor Wimpey were looking for low-carbon heating, we approached their team to provide a full design and quotation. Not only are our wet underfloor heating systems low-carbon, but they’re future-proof too – which is ideal for meeting new regulations!” says Steven Rooney, Director at Gaia Underfloor Heating.

The new regulations implemented by the UK government mean that carbon intensive gas boilers will soon be unsuitable for future homes and should be replaced with low-carbon alternatives.

To adhere to the new legislation, Taylor Wimpey have chosen air source heat pumps which are known as the ideal pairing for wet underfloor heating – to create a low-carbon heating system. When used together, underfloor heating and heat pumps can be 40% more efficient than a gas boiler and radiator system. Plus, underfloor heating runs at a lower temperature than radiators, so consumes significantly less energy for the same warmth.

“The energy efficiency of combining underfloor heating with heat pumps is a significant benefit for the future residents of the Churchfields development. It’s more cost-effective and produces a more comfortable, even warmth too” adds Steven.

Gaia are delivering the design, supply and installation of wet underfloor heating systems on the ground floor of the residential units, as well as their expert guidance from the concept stage through to delivery and aftercare.

“We have extensive experience working with housing developments across the UK and are proud to be providing underfloor heating for this project. It’s great to work with another significant national developer like Taylor Wimpey and we’re looking forward to seeing the completed site” concludes Steven.

The Churchfields development features two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes which are surrounded by green open space and convenient amenities. Construction began in September 2023 and is due to be completed in 2028.

Gaia specialise in the design, supply and installation of underfloor heating for residential, commercial and industrial projects across the UK and Ireland. Trusted by architects, contractors, M&E consultants, builders and developers, they have worked with some of the UK’s leading housing developers.

Read more news and exclusive features in our latest issue here.