I live in a two-story home built on a concrete slab and I've noticed a significant temperature difference between floors every winter—often around 10 degrees. The first floor always feels freezing while the second floor is warmer, making it uncomfortable for anyone on both levels. After recently dealing with some water damage that required us to rip up the hardwood floors, I discovered they were glued down directly onto the slab. The moisture readings were concerning, with most areas showing high moisture levels. Could all this moisture and the concrete slab be contributing to the chilly first floor? What steps can I take to improve warmth on that level? Is installing a moisture barrier an effective solution? Should I consider insulation between the slab and the new flooring? I want to explore options while the floors are exposed, but I'm looking for unbiased opinions before discussing with my contractor.
3 Answers
While it's true that heat can be lost through the slab, it typically isn't a huge amount. The main reason for temperature differences is due to heat rising. To tackle this issue, try to balance your ductwork to improve airflow downstairs. This way, more hot air can reach the first floor, which will help mitigate the cold. Don't forget that every multi-story home faces this challenge, so you’re not alone!
From what I've seen in my experiences with two-story homes, the temperature difference is quite normal because hot air rises. In fact, I've faced similar situations in the homes I've lived in. The active heating system plays a major role too. In my current house, we have separate AC units for each floor which helps balance the temperature. You might want to check your HVAC ducting for issues that could be affecting airflow to your first floor. It's worth looking into!
Yes, you're likely facing heat loss because of the slab! Installing a vapor barrier along with insulation between new joists would certainly help, but only if you have the necessary ceiling height. Since you're already going through the hassle of floor repairs, addressing this now could save you regret later on. Just ensure your new entry doors comply with local codes—especially in snowy areas!
I do think the furnace being upstairs is the main reason for the big temperature gap, but the slab and moisture levels might still contribute.