When homes are built to take advantage of solar radiation entering through windows in the winter months, tiles absorb the heat from the direct sunlight and release the stored heat as needed at night to keep rooms warmer. Conversely, in the summer and in hot climates, tiles shielded from the sun will stay cool longer and can actually help lower air-conditioning costs.

Used properly - the right amount in the right place, with proper insulation - thermal mass can help maintain comfortable temperatures inside year round. If floors in direct sunlight areas are covered with carpets or lino, the sun’s warmth is not absorbed into the floor to be released when it is colder.

A secondary option for energy-efficient tiling is underfloor heating. While an initial investment is required, the underfloor heating system Tile Warehouse uses and promotes, Devi, pays for itself in its ability to lessen the need for above-the-floor heating. Radiant heating also ensures a more comfortable environment at lower temperatures than with forced-air heating, helping to rein in utility bills.

DEVI Heating Systems is a specialist applications-based heating company related to DEVI A/S, currently the largest specialist heating-cable manufacturer in Europe. DEVI is recognised as a major supplier in the heating industry and has designed and installed systems from standard homes to multistorey buildings. The company offers a complete design and supply service including consultations and specifications.

Features of the DEVI system include:

• keeps the floor dry
• less cleaning required
• provides an even, controlled heat.
• most systems cost less per hour to run than a fan heater
• programmable thermostats provide a “set and forget” heating system.

Devi heat mats are approximately 3mm thick, consisting of a heating cable fastened to an open-weave mat, and are available in varying sizes from 0.5m². Due to their construction they can be fastened directly to the floor prior to tiling, the mats ensuring the cables are evenly spaced, giving an even heat, and the open weave allowing the glues and adhesives to penetrate and bond directly with the floor.

As with all Devi products, under-tile heat mats are manufactured to international standards.