When installing radiant panels on wood framing, mechanical fasteners should not be closer than how many inches to the heating element?

The correct distance for placing mechanical fasteners when installing radiant panels on wood framing is 1/4 inch from the heating element. This distance is crucial to prevent damage to the heating element and to ensure safe operation. If fasteners are placed too close, they may cause heat build-up, leading to potential failure of the heating element or even a fire hazard.

Maintaining this quarter-inch space allows for proper thermal expansion and contraction of the materials involved, as heating elements can expand when they heat up. If fasteners are too close, it can restrict this movement, leading to stress on the system. Additionally, this margin helps in maintaining the efficiency of the heating element, ensuring it operates optimally without obstruction from mechanical components.