Ducted heating for rooms with a high percentage of glas

Choosing the right type of heating depends on the desired floor material. In hot water underfloor heating the floor covering must have excellent thermal conductivity, while in the case of duct heating this does not necessarily have to be the case. If you have a wooden floor and want to lay a large carpet under the coffee table, it is better to use underfloor heating.

Duct radiators will be in the ground along patio or balcony windows positioned, meaning their thermal performance is not affected. The heater is equipped with a grill at the top, which is made of various materials such as

consists. This way you can perfectly coordinate the color of windows, floor coverings and heating ducts.

The discreet installation skilfully highlights the large window surfaces

Large glass surfaces are the proverbial “Achilles’ heel” of the entire home heating system. Floor-to-ceiling windows are nice, but they can also allow heat to escape. At very low temperatures you can even feel the unpleasant cold coming from the glass. The deposition of water vapor (condensation) on the surface of the window glass also leads in most cases to the formation of mold.

These problems can be avoided relatively easily with duct heating because… warm air directly towards the window blows and exploits natural convection. Since the heating ducts are integrated into the floor, they do not disturb the appearance of the window at all.

Suggestion: There are models that can also be installed under low windowsills.

Creation of a duct heating system

Duct heating consists of the following elements:

Cladding (tank) made mainly of hot-dip galvanized steel with zinc-magnesium coating
Copper or aluminum heat exchanger
vent valve
Dividing plate – for radiators with depth H ≥140 mm
Fixing anchor
Adjustment screws
Cover protection for the connection chamber.

Along the glass facades dug a gutter, into which a convector heater enters. Finally, the whole thing is covered by a matching slat grille. Underfloor duct heating is also used in modern room geometry: if desired, they can also be adapted to architectural bevels or curves.

Advantages and disadvantages of underfloor heating

Floor duct heaters do not take up space in front of windows, so you can do this at any time have a clear vision. Since heating the ducts creates a small airflow, significant vortices also occur less dust than traditional radiators ON. Underfloor duct heating effectively shields the influence of cold on glass surfaces and thus prevents the formation of cold bridges on the glass surface.

A disadvantage is the dirt that accumulates in the gutter due to frequent use of the terrace or balcony. For this reason it is important clean this gutter regularly, so that the heat exchange occurs smoothly.

Another disadvantage is the high price resulting from installation. Therefore, in my opinion, it is appropriate to evaluate things. Because it only becomes necessary with very large glass surfaces.

Conclusion

While terrace and balcony designs with integrated gutters offer functional and aesthetic benefits, they also come with certain maintenance and cost considerations that should not be overlooked. One of the main drawbacks is the accumulation of dirt and debris within the gutter system, which often results from frequent outdoor use. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup can disrupt proper drainage and hinder the efficient heat exchange that helps regulate indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Routine maintenance, therefore, becomes a crucial factor in ensuring the long-term performance of such installations. Homeowners should schedule regular cleaning and inspections to prevent blockages and maintain the structural integrity of the system. Although this adds a small layer of upkeep, it ultimately helps protect the investment and ensures the terrace or balcony remains both functional and visually appealing.

Another important consideration is the high installation cost associated with these systems. The complexity of the setup, particularly when combined with extensive glass surfaces, can significantly raise the initial expenses. For this reason, it’s essential to evaluate whether such a system is truly necessary for your specific architectural design and lifestyle needs.

In conclusion, while integrated gutter systems in terraces and balconies can enhance comfort and aesthetics, they also demand careful financial planning and consistent maintenance. For homes with large glass facades, the benefits may outweigh the costs—but for smaller or less exposed areas, simpler alternatives could be more practical. Ultimately, making an informed decision based on design requirements, budget, and long-term upkeep will ensure that your investment remains both functional and cost-effective.