If you’ve ever stepped onto a warm bathroom floor during a -25°C Calgary morning, you understand the magic of in-floor heating. Whether you’re finishing a basement in Mahogany, building a custom home in Evanston, or upgrading a chilly kitchen in Lakeview, radiant heat is becoming a top comfort upgrade.
But what’s the cost? In this guide, we break down the average in-floor heating costs in Calgary, compare system types, and walk you through room-by-room examples, rebates, and whether it’s worth it for your home.
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Average Cost of In-Floor Heating in Calgary
For most Calgary homeowners, installing in-floor radiant heating typically costs between $10 and $20 per square foot, depending on the system type (hydronic or electric), the structure of your floors, and the overall layout of your home. Full-system installations for an average house generally range from $12,000 to $35,000 or more, especially if you’re pairing it with a new boiler installation or upgrading an older heating setup.
When comparing per-square-foot costs, electric systems usually run between $10 and $16 per square foot, while hydronic systems fall into the $14 to $20 per square foot range. Electric mats are most cost-effective for smaller areas like bathrooms or entryways, while hydronic tubing is a better investment for full-floor coverage, basements, and garages.
For complete system installs, pricing varies by square footage. A 1,000 square foot home typically costs $12,000 to $18,000, while a 2,000 to 2,500 square foot home may range from $20,000 to over $35,000. If you’re heating a garage or workshop, expect a cost between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on slab accessibility and insulation quality. These numbers can climb if your home has complex zoning, tight joists, or requires retrofitting concrete slabs.
A standard in-floor heating system installation generally includes several key components: PEX tubing or electric heating mats, a boiler or electrical system components, manifolds, pumps, zone controls, proper insulation, and all necessary labour, subfloor prep, permits, and thermostat setup. Together, these elements ensure your radiant system is efficient, safe, and built to last in Calgary’s tough winter conditions.
If you’re also replacing your boiler, check out our combi boiler installation services in Calgary to see compatible options.
Electric vs Hydronic: Cost Comparison
Both systems can keep your toes toasty, but the cost profiles are very different. Electric systems cost $3000 to $8000 for a few rooms, while hydronic systems cost $12000 to $40000.
Electric is cheaper to install, but hydronic wins in long-term operating savings.
Installation complexity and materials
Electric mats install quickly under tile or laminate. Hydronic systems require boilers, manifold setups, insulation layers, and sometimes concrete topping.
Operating costs and long-term energy usage
Hydronic systems heat water via gas boilers and operate at lower temperatures, using less energy. Electric systems rely on Calgary’s higher electricity rates, which can add up fast in winter.
ROI in Calgary homes
For large zones, hydronic offers the best return on investment. For bathrooms or small renos, electric may be sufficient and more budget-friendly.
Key Factors That Affect Installation Cost
Prices vary depending on your home’s size, flooring, and heating goals.
Home size, floor layout, and number of zones
In-floor heating prices in Calgary can vary widely based on your home’s size, existing structure, and specific heating goals. The larger your space or the more zones you want, the more labour, tubing, and control components are required. Open-concept layouts tend to be easier and more affordable to heat evenly compared to homes with many small, segmented rooms.
Existing subfloor, concrete vs joist installs
Your subfloor type also plays a role in pricing. Concrete slabs, which are common in Calgary basements, are often easier and more cost-effective for new builds. In contrast, joist installations require precise placement of tubing between floor joists, which adds time and labour to the project.
Boiler size and compatibility with in-floor heat
If you’re opting for hydronic in-floor heating, your current boiler must be compatible and powerful enough to handle the load. If it’s not, you may need to upgrade to a new combi boiler, which can add between $4,000 and $8,000 to the overall cost.
Labour costs and code/permit fees in Calgary
Finally, labour costs and permitting in Calgary contribute to your total. Expect experienced local contractors to charge anywhere from $60 to $120 per hour. Permits and inspections typically range between $200 and $500, depending on the scope. Always hire licensed hydronic specialists to ensure your system meets Calgary and Alberta’s plumbing code.
Room-by-Room Radiant Heating Cost Estimates
In-floor radiant heating costs can vary by room type, with each space offering its own advantages for comfort and energy efficiency. For bathrooms or en-suites, expect to pay around $1,500 to $3,000. These systems are often added during tile renovations to add a touch of luxury and warmth.
Kitchens and mudrooms typically range from $2,000 to $4,000, making them a popular upgrade for homeowners tired of cold tile underfoot during long Calgary winters. If you’re looking to heat an entire basement or a full-floor zone, the cost jumps to approximately $8,000 to $20,000 or more. These setups are ideal for slab-on-grade homes or finished basement suites, especially where ducting is limited.
Garages and workshops can also benefit from radiant heat, particularly when hydronic tubing is embedded during a concrete pour. Costs for these spaces generally range between $5,000 and $10,000, providing a clean, quiet heating solution for hobbyists and DIYers alike.
Is Radiant In-Floor Heating Worth It in Calgary?
Radiant heat isn’t for everyone, but it’s a game-changer for many.
Ideal for basements, renos, and energy-conscious builds
Calgary homes with concrete floors, finished basements, or open-concept designs benefit most.
When it pays off vs when a furnace might be better
If you’re heating an entire floor or planning to stay long-term, radiant wins. If you’re updating a small home quickly, a furnace upgrade might make more sense.
Financing options or staged installs for cost control
Many Calgary HVAC companies (including us) offer staged installs, low-interest financing, or zone-by-zone upgrades.
FAQs About In-Floor Heating Costs in Calgary
What’s the cost per square foot for radiant floor heating in Calgary?
Anywhere from $10 to $20 per square foot, depending on system type and installation complexity.
Is it expensive to run in-floor heating?
Hydronic systems are economical. Electric systems cost more to run, especially over larger areas.
How expensive is it to put in heated floors?
Most Calgary homeowners spend $12,000 to $30,000 for multi-zone installs, or $2,000–$5,000 for individual rooms.
Are heated floors worth the money?
Yes, especially in basements or tiled areas. They’re efficient, long-lasting, and boost resale value.
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