2025-10-22 - Radiant Floor Heating PEX Manifold Installation

Radiant Floor Heating PEX Manifold Installation

Photo Details

• Date: October 22, 2025
• Time: 7:07 PM
• Weather: Light to moderate drizzle, 47-51°F. Wet conditions visible.
• Phase: Foundation - Radiant heating system installation
• Location: 309 E. 7th St., Clare, MI
• View: Close-up of PEX tubing manifold assembly

Description

This detailed photo shows the PEX tubing manifold for the in-floor radiant heating system, with multiple orange PEX tubes radiating from a central distribution point across the Creatherm insulation surface.

Visible Elements

• PEX Manifold Assembly:
  • Central black manifold hub/distribution point
  • Multiple orange PEX tubes (appears to be ½” diameter as specified) extending outward
  • Approximately 6-8 individual PEX loops visible radiating from manifold
  • Professional installation with systematic loop layout
• PEX Tubing:
  • Orange/red colored PEX-AL-PEX or oxygen barrier PEX
  • Tubes laid out in organized pattern across orange Creatherm surface
  • Tubing appears to follow planned loop patterns for even heat distribution
  • Will be embedded in concrete slab when poured
• Insulation Surface:
  • Bright orange Creatherm foam panels with dimpled surface pattern
  • White stripe markings visible on panels
  • Rectangular utility opening visible in background (dark cutout)
• Installation Context:
  • Black perimeter foam visible at foundation edge
  • Dark soil in excavated area around foundation
  • Professional radiant heating system installation

System Design

PEX Manifold Function:

• Distributes heated water/glycol to multiple heating zones
• Each loop provides heat to a specific area of the 900 sq ft garage slab
• Allows individual zone control and balancing
• Central location minimizes longest loop lengths

Heating Loop Configuration: The multiple PEX loops suggest:

• Multiple zones for different areas (main garage bays, workshop area, entrance)
• Loop spacing likely 12-16” on center for even heat distribution
• Total coverage across entire slab for consistent floor temperature
• Connection point will route to mechanical room for boiler/heat pump connection

Technical Specifications

Based on contract and design documents:

• Tubing: ½” PEX (oxygen barrier type for closed-loop hydronic systems)
• Insulation: 2” Creatherm foam underneath (R-10 value)
• Heat Source: To be connected to hydronic heating system
• Coverage: Full slab coverage (~900 sq ft garage floor)

Construction Sequence

This installation occurs after:

1. ✓ Foundation excavation and forming
2. ✓ Perimeter foam insulation
3. ✓ Under-slab Creatherm installation
4. ✓ Utility sleeve placement
5. → PEX tubing layout and manifold installation (current phase)

Next steps:

1. Complete all PEX loop installations
2. Pressure test system (see next photo with gauge)
3. Install rebar or wire mesh for slab reinforcement
4. Pour concrete slab
5. Connect manifold to heating system after building is enclosed

Related Documents

• Hershberger’s Contract - “2” Creatherm foam under concrete w/ ½” pex for in floor heat”
• Delivery invoice for hydronic heating - PEX tubing and manifold materials
• Garage HVAC and Heating - Radiant floor heating system design
• Garage Insulation - Thermal performance specifications
• Sequence to build garage - Construction and systems installation sequence