I am researching walk-out basement heated floors on a slab. I live in Michigan and have an area of approx 400 sq feet. I have received conflicting information and am looking for clarity to have realistic expectations.

Heat loss on a slab: I have been told that the slab and ground will absorb a lot of the heat so it won’t be ideal and it will be very expensive to run. I have been told that only tiles should be put over the radiant floor. Is there a certain brand that is better than another for a slab? Is there anything that can be put down to minimize the downward heat loss without raising the height of the floor too much?

Asbestos: It is an older basement and has asbestos tiles, the mastic doesn’t have asbestos. The asbestos removing companies told me I should remove the tiles prior to putting down a heated floor. I had a flooring person tell me if the tiles are in good shape, leave them alone and the heat won’t cause asbestos fibers to become airborne. Had anyone dealt with anything like this?

Floor height: I have been told radiant floor heat would raise my floor anywhere from 0.5-1” and am wondering which is more accurate?

Brands: There are so many brands to sort through. Does anyone have a recommendation(s) for a reputable brand?

Thank you for reading my post! Any information is greatly appreciated!