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. The panels combine EPS insulation, vapor control, tubing layout guidance, and PEX retention. This integrated design helps contractors reduce the number of separate materials required for an under-slab radiant heating assembly.
AmPex panels are suitable for interior and exterior applications, including basements, slab-on-grade construction, garages, workshops, agricultural buildings, driveways, and snow-melt systems.
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. Each panel combines closed-cell molded expanded polystyrene with a high-impact polystyrene film.
The EPS provides continuous insulation beneath the slab, while the film supports vapor control and forms the surface of the tubing retention system. Together, these elements provide:
- High-density rigid insulation
- An integrated vapor barrier
- A PEX tubing locking system
- A consistent tubing layout grid
Combining these functions in one panel can reduce the need to source, handle, and coordinate multiple products. It also creates a consistent surface for positioning and securing PEX tubing.
Designed For Efficient Installation
AmPex was designed with features that streamline radiant floor heating installation.
Four-Sided Interlocking Shiplap Connectors
The large, four-sided interlocking shiplap connector system makes for a quick, easy, and secure installation while maintaining the continuity of the High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) film, eliminating the need for a dedicated polyethylene vapor barrier (unless specifically required by local building code).
Mushroom-Shaped Nubs
Mushroom-shaped nubs molded into the panel surface grip the PEX tubing and hold it within the planned layout, without staples or zip ties.
The nub pattern accommodates straight runs, turns, and return loops while helping protect the tubing from movement and dislocation during jobsite activity. Secure retention can limit the need for tubing adjustments before concrete placement.
AmPex panels are available in options that accommodate several tubing sizes and insulation requirements.
Three-Inch Tubing Grid
A consistent 3-inch grid pattern provides clear reference points for tubing placement. The grid supports uniform layouts, straight tubing runs, and controlled turns across the floor area.
The grid accommodates several tubing spacing configurations, giving hydronic designers and installers flexibility for different system requirements.
Lightweight EPS Construction
The lightweight EPS construction makes AmPex panels easier to carry, position, and cut than heavier under-slab materials.
Each standard panel has a usable area of 24 by 48 inches. The manageable size makes handling in confined areas easy and simplifies fitting around walls, columns, drains, plumbing, and mechanical services.
Walk-in Installation
AmPex panels enable quick, walk-in installation of tubing by allowing it to be pressed directly between molded nubs that securely hold it in place.
This method eliminates the need for staples and zip ties while removing the strain associated with working at 45-degree angles. Installers can move efficiently across the panel surface, placing tubing with minimal effort.
The open grid pattern keeps the tubing route visible during installation. Once secured, the tubing remains held within the panel, helping maintain the intended layout as work continues around the slab assembly.
Simplifying the Under-Slab Assembly
The primary advantage of AmPex is the combination of several radiant heating system components within one panel.
Rigid insulation supports the thermal performance of the floor assembly. The high-impact film provides vapor control, while the molded grid and nubs support tubing layout and retention. Contractors can address these requirements with fewer separate products and fewer material transitions.
This integrated approach offers several advantages:
- Reduced material handling
- Fewer separate installation components
- Less reliance on tubing fasteners
- Clear tubing layout guidance
- Secure PEX retention
- Easier panel handling and cutting
- A more organized under-slab assembly
These features are particularly valuable on projects with large floor areas, multiple heating zones, or schedules that require several trades to work around the slab.
An Efficient Approach to Radiant Floor Heating
AmPex panels simplify radiant floor heating installation by combining insulation, vapor control, layout guidance, and PEX retention in one product. AmPex provides contractors with a more efficient and organized approach to radiant floor heating installation.
Ready to simplify your next radiant floor heating project? Learn more about AmPex or find an Alleguard distributor.