Staple Up PEX Method

Bart Vaio

If you have a low btu load per sq. ft. you could alternately use one of the various suspended tube systems for those areas. There are a few pitfalls, namely higher fluid temps required, and slower heat transfer. The ultra fin system is popular in our area and the Uponor clip system also holds the tube about 3/4" from the subfloor eliminating the need to shave all the nails. The heating and cooling of all the components in direct plated staple up systems are very likely to cause lots of noise if not installed correctly.

Rich Lee

Staple Up PEX Method

Before installing my PEX tubing to the 1st floor subfloor I need to snip off the protruding flooring nails. I have a nipping tool that will trim the nails almost flush. Instead of then going around and grinding off all the nail shanks flush to the subfloor I am thinking that maybe I could simply staple some 14" wide aluminum flashing directly to the subfloor. Next, staple up the PEX like normal using heat transfer plates. This method seems like it should give good heat tranfer to the subfloor while protecting the PEX from the cut nail shanks.

I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks!

hot_rod

It may cause some noise issues

when that flashing material warms it will want to move. We called this "oil canning" when the thin flashing style transfer plates started moving and making that poping noise.

I saw one contractor nail up thin masonite, 1/8" I believe, to cover the nail points, after he snipped them. Then he fastened the tube below that. The r-value that 1/8" provided was very small and didn't seem to hurt performance.

I used a die grinder, to grind nails, but just once! It was an ugly job.

But the die grinder cut right against the floor and was very fast (higher rpm)

Also consider extruded transfer plated for best heat transfer and performance. But they need tight contact to do their job properly.

hr

David Van Wickler_4

Do it once, do it right.

Grind the nails flush - use 3/8" plates extruded, 250' per loop with leaders, condensing boiler with reset, enjoy. Your welcome. DVDubya

Wayco Wayne_2

What about

that material for joist heating we saw at Wetstock in Denver? Would that be a solution? Is it available yet? WW

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