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Warm floors aren't a thing of the past, but they seem to be a trend of the future. Radiant heating systems, which are currently considered a luxury to the average individual, might soon become a necessity as the popularity of such systems continue to flourish.

Experts agree radiant heat is one of the best ways to heat a home on a number of levels. When energy efficiency, cost effectiveness, environmental cleanliness and conservation come into play, radiant heating systems can do it all.

A number of heating alternatives are referred to as radiant heating solutions, which heat a room from the bottom up without blowing hot air into a room or burning any oil or gas. Depending on the individual needs of the home or building owner, installation consists of cables, mats or mesh heating elements for top comfort.

Under-floor heating can be installed under virtually any floor covering, and are easily placed under new construction, remodeled floors or by simply replacing old floor coverings. Tiled, hardwood and carpeted floors are ideal places for radiant heating systems, no matter the size of the room or level of the building.

As the cost of natural resources like fossil fuels skyrocketing in recent years, forced air natural gas systems are becoming more of a burden than a comfort. Many environmentally-conscious, cost-conscious and comfort-conscious home owners are turning to more efficient heating methods. With radiant heating systems available in electric and hyrdronic forms, consumers have more options than ever before.

Unlike other heating systems, radiant heating systems produce a clean, quiet and all-around uniform heat that transforms cold floors and furniture into heat-omitting objects.

While such systems vary from hydronic, hot water heat emissions to electricity, low-voltage electronic heat seems to be the most popular, efficient product.

However, considering the type of energy available in relation to cost is an important part of the decision-making process. In some areas, electricity is less expensive than gas, oil or propane. While in other places, solar heat might be the most viable source. Also, the type of floor construction being done will play a role in what heating system to purchase.

Notably, a heat loss calculation of the building will result in more efficient heating using less time and energy, as well as installing the correct size of a heating system for individual needs.

In addition to radiant heating systems for floors are those for roof deicing, driveways and walkways.

Equally inexpensive and simple to operate with a temperature sensor or easy on/off button, concrete and asphalt systems don't ruin the landscape in place, while roof deicing systems are simply installed over the ice and water shield already in place.

While such systems are currently popular in the Eastern United States, the demand is rising across the country. Even in warmer locations, tile or hardwood floors are often very cold to the touch. Radiant heating systems eliminate that discomfort, replacing it with warmth, coziness and relaxation.

Between the built-in safety computer that measures and monitors the system operation and no required maintenance, low-voltage radiant heating systems eliminate winter heating maintenance with reliable, consistent warmth.

Plus, the energy efficiency of radiant heat that draws on 100 percent of the energy it creates allows for comfort without manual temperature adjustment. And due to the fact that radiant heat is stored inside the floor, warmth is easily maintained throughout the day and night.

As radiant heat continues its steady increase in popularity, cold feet may just become a thing of the past.