Hydronic radiant floor heating systems often require several separate materials beneath the concrete slab. This usually includes rigid insulation, a vapor barrier, layout markings, PEX tubing, and tubing fasteners. Coordinating each component can add labor, material handling, and complexity to the installation process.
AmPex insulated floor panels bring several of these functions together in one product. he system consists of molded expanded polystyrene insulation covered by a high-impact polystyrene film, with a raised grid that positions and holds PEX tubing.
AmPex is suitable for interior and exterior applications, and can be used in basements, slab-on-grade buildings, garages, workshops, agricultural buildings, driveways, and snow-melt applications.
A Multifunctional Panel for Radiant Floor Heating Systems
AmPex is a non-structural insulated panel designed for hydronic radiant floor heating systems beneath concrete slabs. Its EPS body provides continuous under-slab insulation, while the high-impact polystyrene film and molded nub pattern handle vapor control and tubing placement.
Each panel provides:
- High-density rigid insulation
- An integrated vapor barrier
- A PEX tubing locking system
- A consistent tubing layout grid
Using one panel for these requirements reduces the number of separate materials that must be delivered, stored, cut, and installed. It also gives installers a defined surface for laying out the tubing before concrete placement.
Built for Faster Installation
AmPex was designed with practical features that simplify panel placement, tubing layout, and under-slab preparation.
Four-Sided Interlocking Shiplap Connectors
AmPex panels connect on all four sides through an interlocking shiplap system. The connections keep adjacent panels aligned and maintain continuity across the high-impact polystyrene film.
A separate polyethylene vapor barrier is generally unnecessary when the panel joints are installed as specified, unless one is required by the local building code.
Molded PEX Retention
Mushroom-shaped nubs grip the tubing after it is pressed into the panel. This removes the need to secure each run with staples or zip ties.
The nub pattern can accommodate straight runs, turns, and return loops. Once the tubing is placed, the panel holds it within the planned route and reduces movement while other work continues around the slab.
AmPex panels are available in options that accommodate several tubing sizes and insulation requirements.
Three-Inch Layout Grid
The panel surface uses a consistent three-inch grid that gives installers visible reference points for tubing placement. The pattern can be used for several spacing configurations based on the heating design.
Because the layout is built into the panel, installers can maintain straight runs and controlled turns without measuring and marking the insulation separately.
Lightweight Panels for Jobsite Handling
Standard AmPex panels provide a usable area of 24 by 48 inches. Their lightweight EPS construction makes them easier to carry and position than heavier under-slab materials.
Panels can be cut to fit around walls, columns, drains, plumbing lines, and mechanical services. Their size also makes them manageable in basements and other areas where access or working space is limited.
Walk-in Installation
PEX tubing is installed by walking across the panel and pressing it between the molded nubs. Installers can work from an upright position rather than repeatedly bending down to fasten the tubing at an angle.
The open grid keeps the route visible throughout the installation. It also allows installers to identify misplaced runs before the tubing is covered by concrete.
Simplifying the Under-Slab Assembly
A conventional radiant floor installation may require insulation boards, a separate vapor barrier, measured layout lines, and individual tubing fasteners. AmPex replaces these separate layers and accessories with a panel that performs each function within the same installation surface.
This can reduce:
- The number of products handled on site
- Separate fastening materials
- Manual layout work
- Adjustments caused by tubing movement
- Transitions between insulation and vapor-control materials
These features become more noticeable on large floor areas, projects with multiple heating zones, and jobs where several trades must work around the slab before concrete placement.
An Efficient Approach to Radiant Floor Heating
AmPex gives contractors one surface for insulating the slab, managing vapor, laying out tubing, and holding PEX in place. By reducing separate materials and fastening steps, the panels make the under-slab assembly easier to lay out and install.
Ready to simplify your next radiant floor heating project? Learn more about AmPex or find an Alleguard distributor.