Preventing expansion noise

JoshuaB

Hello again

I am retro fitting an old house with hydronic radiant floors. I have access to the joist bays for floor 1 and am installing on the subloor on floor 2.

I am utilizing omega groove aluminum panels.

I am concerned that the pex will make noise as it expands and contracts against the aluminum. What measures can I take to help prevent or mitigate the noise. A recent TOH episode suggested using silicone paste, however, I am uncertain this is the appropriate way.

Thanks

Jamie Hall

It will make noise. Silicone paste may help -- until it wears out. The best way to run a radiant floor -- i PEX or anything else -- is to run it at as near a constant temperature as possible, changing the temperature very slowly when it needs to change.

Gooch

Ditch the cheap tinfoil plates for heavy extruded ones. Spend money on pex with a pe layer over the economy barrier. Be sure to drill holes large enough to accommodate pipe insulation aswell.