Radiantly Heating an HGTV “Fixer to Fabulous” Lake Cabin

The Challenge

The Marrs family from the HGTV show “Fixer to Fabulous” purchased a tornado-ravaged cabin near Table Rock Lake in Arkansas. As the cabin was significantly damaged due to the tornado and overall decay, they needed to renovate the entire structure. They decided that they would use tile flooring in the living room and kitchen, which raised the question of how to keep the area and the floor warm.

During the winter months, they would need an efficient and cost-effective heating system that would successfully warm the cabin. Given that cold air from the nearby lake would pass over their cabin and lower the inside temperature significantly, they needed a heating system that would work against this exterior factor. Additionally, as the cabin was only 850 square feet, the limited space meant that they wanted a heating solution that would keep the area open and uncluttered. The ideal heating solution would be compact and energy-efficient to combat the seasonal and environmental factors as well as optimize use of the cabin space.

The Solution

After discussing what kind of heating system would best meet their heating needs for the unique cabin space, they decided that the Warmup DCM-PRO Uncoupling Membrane and Cable System would be the perfect solution to effectively and discreetly heat the cabin living room and kitchen. The DCM-PRO Membrane can be easily laid beneath the floor and cut to size to fit every space’s specific shape and measurement. Due to load-bearing weight and structural subfloor movement, floor finishes can get damaged and tiles are especially prone to cracking. The Membrane helps protect the subfloor from cracks and movement by creating a new layer between the subfloor and the floor finish. Additionally, it provides spacing options for the Heating Cable, which allows the homeowner to determine the desired heat output for the system. This effectively eliminates cold spots while ensuring consistent and even heat distribution within the given space.

It was a great choice to use, as the DCM-PRO System is compatible with tile flooring as well as most other floor types, such as vinyl, wood, laminate, stone, and more. The system is a virtually invisible heating source that takes up no additional space, as the entire system is laid beneath the floor, freeing up room in all heated areas. The Marr’s DCM-PRO heating system was paired with Warmup’s 6iE Smart Thermostat, which can track heating habits automatically and allow for manual heating programs to be set, both of which ensure that heating is optimized based on a user’s preference and heat use. This allows the Marrs family to improve their energy use and seamlessly manage their system, which can additionally be easily accessed through Warmup’s MyHeating App.

The Result

Upon installing Warmup’s DCM-PRO Radiant Underfloor Heating System, the Marrs family found that their cabin’s kitchen and living room remained cozy in the wintertime. The tile floor kept their feet warm and was an effective primary heating source for the area that evenly distributed heat. Without using more energy than was needed, the Marrs’s found that their space remained at the desired comfort level without adding extra heating costs.

Additionally, with no need for bulky heating units (like radiators or wall units), the family was able to maximize their living area. As the DCM-PRO System is embedded within the floor with no visible elements aside from the thermostat, the Marrs could focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with no obstacles in the way of their design plans. Now, their lakeside cabin is an ideal place to relax year-round, regardless of what the weather may bring.