Radiant heating is a popular choice for homeowners who want to enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. Radiant heating systems use pipes or tubes to circulate hot water or steam under the floor, creating a warm and even temperature throughout the space. However, installing radiant heating can be challenging, especially in remodel projects where the floor height and structure may not allow for conventional methods.
To address this challenge, Uponor, a leading provider of plumbing and heating solutions, has launched a new product in its line of residential radiant heating panels: the Xpress Trak. The Xpress Trak is a single-panel system that features lightweight XPS foam at its core and laminated aluminum around the entire surface to provide exceptional heat-transfer capability. The Xpress Trak is designed for use with 5/16 inch Wirsbo hePEX oxygen-barrier PEX-a pipe and includes a low, 5/8 inch profile to minimize construction in remodel projects, as well as 6 inches on-center pipe spacing to accurately meet residential radiant application needs. The panels work well under most floor coverings, including hardwood, carpet, tile, linoleum, and luxury vinyl tile or plank.
The XPS foam in the Xpress Trak offers several advantages for both the installing contractor and the homeowner, such as:
- Natural moisture resistance to eliminate caulking edges or panel grooves for increased installation efficiencies
- No insulation needed in joist space below the subfloor, saving labor time and materials costs
- Compressive strength of 49 psi (pounds per square inch) to eliminate floor deflection
- Lower mass for faster response times to improve system performance
- An R-value of 3.13 that allows energy use to heat the space rather than charging and storing energy into the panel
Additionally, the product features straight runs and return bends integrated into one panel for faster, easier ordering and installation. The panels can be easily cut and shaped to fit any floor layout and can be adhered to a wood subfloor or a concrete slab with a suitable adhesive.
“With more than 40 years in the radiant market, we are passionate about innovations that advance the industry,” said Aaron Stotko, director, segment marketing, at Uponor. “By launching Xpress Trak, which provides an ideal complement to our new Smatrix Pulse wireless radiant and air-side control system, installers will now have a comprehensive solution that can help increase efficiencies, productivity, and profitability in their residential projects.”
The following table summarizes the main features and benefits of the Xpress Trak radiant panels:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lightweight XPS foam core | Moisture-resistant, no insulation needed, high compressive strength, low thermal mass, high R-value |
| Laminated aluminum surface | Excellent heat transfer, compatible with most floor coverings |
| 5/16 inch Wirsbo hePEX pipe | Durable, flexible, corrosion-resistant, oxygen-barrier, expansion and contraction capability |
| Low profile (5/8 inch) | Minimizes construction height, ideal for remodels |
| 6 inches on-center pipe spacing | Optimal heat output and distribution for residential applications |
| Integrated straight runs and return bends | Simplifies ordering and installation, reduces waste and fittings |
| Easy to cut and shape | Fits any floor layout, allows for custom design |
| Adheres to wood or concrete | Versatile, secure, no fasteners needed |
For more information about the Xpress Trak radiant panels, visit Uponor’s website or contact your local Uponor distributor.
