Nov. 7, 2023

Radiant Heating Brings Transformative Comfort to Historic Duplex

by Brooke Roberts

Stephanie Zimmerman, a Michigan homeowner in a historic duplex, faced issues common with older structures: insufficient insulation and discomfort during harsh winters. In 2021, she acquired a duplex built in 1910, which suffered from these problems. "It's the worst house for Michigan," she said. "It's a concrete block — I felt like I had to run the heat so high, so I didn't have the experience of being cold in my house." 

As an environmentally-conscious homeowner seeking improved heating, Stephanie partnered with Uponor to enhance her home's energy efficiency and comfort. The project focused on retrofitting the exposed subfloor. 

Stephanie's motivation was to create a more energy-efficient and comfortable living space for herself and her cat, Savannah. Her choice was influenced by Uponor, a leading radiant heating solutions provider. She realized that radiant heating not only offered superior comfort but also reduced energy costs, making it a long-term investment in her home's environmental efficiency. 

For the project, Stephanie selected Joist Trak™ aluminum heat-transfer plates from Uponor. The installation in her basement was straightforward, causing minimal disruption. The improvements in heating quality and energy efficiency were evident during her first winter with the system. “The contractors come, and you live in your living space uninterrupted,” she said. 

Stephanie’s radiant heating project is a perfect example of the positive impact Uponor solutions can have on a homeowner's quality of life. With the Joist Trak system, Stephanie effectively addressed the heating challenges of her 1910 duplex, making it cozier during Michigan winters. 

Her experience underscores the value of well-researched, innovative solutions in home improvement projects and the importance of finding dedicated contractors who can bring these projects to life. Her radiant heating transformation is a testament to the possibilities awaiting homeowners willing to invest in sustainable solutions for their homes.