FLOORING

CONTENTS

 Cement or lime concrete flooring

 Bricks flooring
 Flagstones flooring
 Marble flooring
 Glass flooring
 Ceramic flooring
 Plastic flooring
 Mud and Murram flooring
 Wood flooring
 Cork flooring
 Linoleum flooring
 Asphalt flooring
 Rubber flooring
 vitrified flooring tiles
 vinyl flooring
 hardwood flooring
 granite flooring
 bamboo flooring
 terrazzo flooring
 red oxide flooring
 Factors affecting selection of flooring material
 FLOORING
A floor in building construction is a leveled surface which can support the objects,
occupants etc. Different flooring types are therebased on different factors. There are
various types of flooring materials used in building construction and their selection
depends on applications, aesthetics and choice of user. The flooring material is chosen
as per requirement of the user and based on applications which provides the most
satisfying results for objective, either it may beeconomically or durability wise.

1. Types of Flooring Materials and Applications in Building

Construction

Following are the different types of flooring materials generally used inbuilding
construction works:

 Cement or lime concrete

 Bricks
 Flagstones
 Marble
 Glass
 Ceramic
 Plastic
 Mud and murram
 Wood
 Cork
 Linoleum
 Asphalt
 Rubber
 vitrified flooring tiles
 vinyl flooring
 hardwood flooring
 granite flooring
 bamboo flooring
 terrazzo flooring
 red oxide flooring
CEMENT CONCRETE FLOORING

Concrete is most used flooring material. It is suitable for any type of and is cheaper than
others and durable. Cement Concrete mix of 1:3:6 to 1:5:10 or lime concrete with 40% 1:2
lime sand mortar and 60% coarseaggregate is used as base course. After hardening, 1:2:4
cement concrete mix with 40 mm thick layer is laid as topping. In industrial buildings,
granolithic finish is provided to obtain hard wearing surface. Granolithic finish can be
obtained from rich concrete with tough quality coarse aggregate mix.

Advantages: Cement concrete flooring is one of the most common types of flooring. This
type of flooring is quite durable, easy to construct and maintain besides being economical
as compared to tile, marble and other such type of floorings.

Advantages:
Concrete is highly durable and resistant to impacts or dents.
Although generally seen in patios, car parking areas and garages, it’s now used in interior
flooring and paving as well.
Advanced technology means it is available in stained, coloured, stamped and customized
designs.
Concrete possesses high thermal mass, which can be used to reduce the energy demand
for thermal comfort.
Concrete flooring is non-absorbent so resists damp and mould.

Disadvantages:
As concrete is very hard, it’s uncomfortable to stand or sit on for too long.
It is unsuitable for use in coastal or riverside areas, where ground moisture can damage
stain or coating.
The manufacturing process requires a significant amount of energy, which releases much
carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Over time, concrete cracks, requiring patching or replacement.

Cost of the material:

The cost of the material per square feet starts at rs 60 for polished vareities.
 Fig: Cement Concrete Flooring

BRICK FLOORING

Bricks can also be used for flooring purposes, but they are not suitable floor materials for
residential or public buildings. Brick floorings are generally usedin unimportant rooms, go-
downs, etc. For this well burnt bricks are preferable and bricks should be in uniform size
and have same color.

Advantages: They are totally fire resistant. They are fade resistant. Brick flooring can be
made into different patterns giving different look. Bricks are the most durable and can
withstand traffic, blunt impacts and also water absorbent and not damaged easily, so they
can be useful in footpaths. They offer proper grip for walking. They will neither crack nor
chip.

Disadvantages: Weight: Since bricks are so dense and heavy, they can be impractical for
installation in some areas without proper support. This means that brick floors may not be
ideal for use above the first floor.
Inflexibility: Brick flooring is extremely hard, which means that it can be hard on your feet
and dangerous if you fall on it, which can be a concern for young children and the elderly.
Mold: Though brick won’t be damaged by water, it is extremely absorbent, and will soak up
water and other liquids if you don’t quickly clean them up. This creates a damp, dark
environment that can promote mold growth if not properly cleaned.

Cost of the material:

The cost of the material per square feet rs 20 to rs 25 depending on quality and quantity of
material.

Fig: Brick Flooring in Buildings

FLAGSTONE FLOORING
Flagstone is a type of sedimentary rock which is obtained by splitting along bed planes. It
consists silica, calcite and iron oxide. Flag stone is used to manufacture tiles of different
sizes in different shapes.

Advantages:
In India, stone floors, especially those made of marble, have a luxury label. They have a
lovely sheen, when polished. Like wood, natural stone flooring is versatile, due to the
diverse types of stones that are available, including granite, sandstone, slate and limestone.
They are extremely durable and can last a lifetime with regular maintenance.

Disadvantages:
One of the main demerits of natural stone is its high maintenance. Since it is porous, it can
absorb stains easily and needs regular polishing and sealing to prevent stains from seeping
through the surface. It can pose a safety risk as it is slippery, especially when the surface is
wet. Hence, it is not recommended for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas. This type of
flooring is also cold to touch.

Cost of the material:

The cost of the green, yellow, red, grey flagstone per square feet is rs 43.

Fig: Flagstone Flooring Material

MARBLE FLOORING

Marble is a type of metamorphic rock and is used widely for floorings in commercial
buildings, kitchens, bathrooms etc. they are stain proof and easily cleanable. Hence, they are
used where extra cleanliness is required especially inbathrooms. They are also available in
different colors and designs.
 Advantages:
Marble creates a very magnificent aesthetic impact on the interiors especially Italian marble.
Marble flooring is very durable and can last for ages. It is a heavy stone and can take heavy
loads on it.
Marble flooring is scratch resistant.
Disadvantages:
Marble requires proper care and maintenance. Acid should never be used on marble as it
shall loose its shine. Marble should be regularly polished over a period of time to give it a
new look. If proper precautions are not taken the marble becomes yellowish in colour.
Italian marble is usually very soft and prone to cracks. Proper resins have to be used to make
the surface strong and solid and avoid further cracks.
Proper sealants should be used in marble flooring as the marble is highly porous and prone to
staining. It absorbs stains very quickly especially kitchen stains hence are not appropriate for
kitchen counter tops.
Marble is very heavy and lot of labour is required in lifting the stone. Only very professional
contractors can work with marble flooring and insert design infill’s in the floor.
Marble flooring becomes very cold in winters.
Cost of the material:
The cost of Indian Marble ranges from rs 70 to rs 400 per square feet. Italian marble at rs 350
per square foot.

Fig: Marble Flooring

GLASS FLOORING
Glass is used as flooring material for special conditions like to transmit light from upper floor
to lower floor etc. They are available in tiles which are fixed inclosely spaced frames. Even
though it is very costly it provides beautiful appearance.

Advantages:
 Useful for Tourist attractions and aquariums.

Cost of the material:

The cost of a fully installed glass floor costs roughly 200 dollars to 300 dollars a square foot.

Fig: Glass Flooring

CERAMIC FLOORING

Ceramic tiles are famous floor covering materials. Ceramic is inorganic materialand it possess
properties like good compressive resistance, brittleness and hardness etc.

Advantages:
Tile floors are long-lasting and tough to ruin. They are resistant to stains, cracks, wear, and
tear. Tile is particularly suited for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. It is also less
expensive than some other options.

Disadvantages:
While you can choose from a variety of looks and styles, tile may not present the “homey”
feel you will want for your family’s living areas. Additionally, it can be difficult to scrub the
grout within the tile.

Cost of the material:

The cost of the material per square feet rs 25 to rs 85 depending on siize and quality.
Fig: Ceramic Flooring
 A. PVC TILES
Plastic tiles or poly vinyl chloride (PVC) tiles are widely used nowadays which are laid on
concrete base. These tiles are available in different shapes, sizes and colors. Plastic tiles
are of slippery nature and can get easily damaged by fire.

Advantages: Chosen for high-traffic areas because of its low cost, durability, and ease
of maintenance. They are water resistant. Vinyl tiles have high resilience to abrasion
and impact damage and can be repeatedly refinished with chemical strippers and
mechanical buffing equipment. If properly installed, tiles can be easily removed and
replaced when damaged. The tiles can take appearance of any look like marble,
terracotta etc.

Disadvantages: Any abrasive surface will easily damage the floor. Cleaning with any
detergent damages the floor.
Cost of the material:
The cost of the material per piece varies from rs 35 to rs 250 depending on size and quality.
 Fig: Plastic Flooring Tiles

MUD AND MURRAM FLOORING

Mud is nothing but moist earth which is being used as flooring material in sinceolden days. It
has good thermal insulation property. Chopped straw is added to mud to prevent it from the
cracking. Sometimes cow dung is also used in this mixture.

Advantages:
The main advantage of mud flooring is; it is eco-friendly.
Mud flooring is a very cheap option compared to PVC flooring or any other type of flooring.
There is no health concern in case of mud flooring whereas PVC flooring emits high VOC
compound which is not good for health.
Mud flooring has ability to control the temperature variations. During summer it stays cool
and vice a versa during winter time. It can provide fairly warm atmosphere.
It is a fire resistant compared to PVC flooring.
Skilled labours not required to do the mud flooring.

Disadvantages:
It is not durable as compared PVC flooring.
Mud flooring requires frequent maintenance, once or twice in a week.
The surface of the mud flooring is not smooth as compared PVC flooring.
Mud flooring gets weathered due to certain activities i.e. walking, moving of furniture, etc.
It is not moisture resistant therefore there are chances of the growth of bacteria which is
unhygienic.
It dost not resist heavy load as the floor gets dent.
Mud flooring has low resistance to stain as it has high porosity.
Its life is limited.

Fig: Mud Flooring

Murram is also direct nature product which is obtained from the disintegrationof rock. It also
 has similar properties like mud. It is also be used as flooring material like mud.

Fig: Murram as a Flooring Material

Cost of the material:

The cost of the material per square feet is rs 15 in most markets.
WOOD FLOORING
Wood or timber is one of the most common method of flooring. It is preferred when the
timber is cheaply available, such as in hilly areas. Timber blocks or timber bards are
provided as flooring covers. Wooden floors are most suitablefor dance floors,
auditoriums etc. Damp proof course below the flooring is necessary for wooden floors.

Advantages:
They are durable and can be sanded and polished several times during their lifetime to
keep them looking as good as new. They bring beauty, warmth and luxury into any home.
Wood floors are also easy to clean.
Disadvantages:
Its installation is highly labour intensive; it doesn’t retain heat, can get scratched easily, is
affected by moisture, and expands and contracts according to the season and the
temperature. One of the main drawbacks of wood as a flooring material is that is costlier
than most other flooring options.
Cost of the material:
The cost of the material per square feet rs 48 to rs 730 (depending on the quality)

Fig: Wooden Flooring

CORK FLOORING
Cork is obtained from the cork oak tree. It is used as flooring material in the form of carpets.
These carpets are noiseless and are required mainly in libraries, theaters etc. Cork tiles are
also available which are made from high graded corkbar using compression in moldings.

Advantages:
Made from the bark of the cork oak tree, this material is environment friendly,
biodegradable and does not contain harmful chemicals.
Cork has a soft, cushiony surface that’s gentle on your feet and knees.
Made up of several tiny air-filled chambers, cork acts as a barrier against noise and helps
with soundproofing.
Just like hardwood, cork can be refinished periodically to give it a new look.
Unlike carpets, cork doesn’t trap dust, hair, pollen or other particles that aggravate (or
cause) allergies and asthma.
Cork contains a waxy substance called suberin that repels small insects, thus promoting a
healthy environment.

Disadvantages:
Thanks to cork’s soft and cushiony texture, sharp and heavy objects can pierce the surface
and scrape the material.
It’s unsuitable for homes with pets, as cat and dog nails can scratch and dent it.
Excessive humidity can cause cork to plump or curl up, which may cause the tiles to pop out.
Direct exposure to sunlight can discolor that part of the floor.
Cost of the material: cost per sq. feet is 340

LINOLEUM FLOORING
Linoleum is the product obtained by oxidizing linseed oil in gum, resins, pigments, cork dust
etc. It is available in sheets which is generally used as covering for concrete or wooden
flooring. The sheets may be plain or design printed.

Advantages:
Although they share several similar characteristics, vinyl and linoleum are two different types
of flooring materials. While the former is manufactured using chemicals, linoleum is made
from naturally-occurring substances such as linseed oil, cork, wood dust and resin. It comes
in sheets and tiles, but the sheets are not as easy to install as vinyl. Linoleum tiles are more
suited to D-I-Y installation. This material is easy to clean and is water-resistant.

Disadvantages:
However, even water-resistant linoleum can get damaged due to moisture and needs to be
sealed from time to time. Linoleum is slightly more expensive than vinyl, but it is more
durable. Unlike vinyl, which looks the same for years, linoleum weathers over time and
gradually loses its surface sheen.
Cost of material: per square feet is 35 to 270 rupees
 Fig: Linoleum Flooring in Buildings

ASPHALT FLOORING MATERIAL

Asphalt is highly viscous liquid form of petroleum. Asphalt is used as flooring material in
different ways. If asphalt and sand are mixed in 1:2 proportion then it is called asphalt
mastic which is poured on concrete base as flooring cover. If sand is replaced by marble
chips then it is called as asphalt mosaic. Asphalt tilesare also available which are prepared
from the asphalt fibers, inert materials and mineral pigments.

Cost of material: per square feet is 65 rupees

 Fig: Asphalt Flooring

RUBBER FLOORING
Rubber tiles or sheets are also available in market for flooring purposes. They are made
from pure rubber which is mixed with cotton fibers, asbestos fiber. Suitable adhesives are
used to fix the rubber tiles with concrete or wooden base. Rubber flooring is noiseless and
provided in libraries, offices etc.

Advantages:
Resistance to tough workouts and heavy traffic
Numerous style options
Perfect fit for your space
Quick and easy installation due to their interlocking design and light weight
No adhesives required
If damage occurs, only one piece needs to be replaced rather than the whole floor
Easy to remove, store, and reuse in another location

Disadvantages:
Installation in larger spaces is very time-consuming
The floor may not appear completely seamless
Seams can let water through to the subfloor
Smooth, untextured rubber tiles become slippery when wet
Rubbery smell in the first couple of months after installation

Cost of material: per square feet is 150 to 210 rupees

Fig: Rubber Flooring Tiles

VITRIFIED FLOORING TILES
Vitrified flooring tiles are composed of a mixture of clay and other minerals like silica, quartz
and feldspar baked at high temperatures.
Generally coated with an external glaze, these tiles have a low water absorption rate and are
durable.
They come in a large variety of designs, colours, prints and textures.
Tiles can also simulate natural materials such as wood, bamboo and even marble.
An affordable option suitable for both interior and exterior use, vitrified tiles is available in
glossy, matte and anti-skid finishes.

Advantages:
Better mechanical resistance. Scratch resistance. Gives grandeur and long life span. Fire
resistant.

Disadvantages:
High Cost
Cost of material: per square feet is 55 to 323 rupees
 Fig: Vitrified flooring tile

VINYL FLOORING
Vinyl Flooring is another versatile option that is available for people who want aesthetics at an
efficient cost.
Available in designs that simulate hardwood and stone finishes, vinyl is one of the relatively
inexpensive options in India.

Advantages:
Best known for its waterproof properties, vinyl is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms which are
prone to moisture and humidity.
Vinyl can endure high traffic for a long time without incurring damage.
As it is relatively inexpensive, it makes a great substitute for high-cost hardwood.
Modern vinyl floors are easy to remove and replace, making it a great flooring option for DIY
types. However, hiring professional floorers is always recommended.
Vinyl is slightly softer than wood or tile, making it easier to stand on for a long time.
Vinyl floors need only occasional sweeping and mopping to keep clean.

Disadvantages:
As vinyl is a relatively soft flooring material, sharp objects and heavy furniture can gouge or
scratch it, leaving ugly dents and marks.
In case of tears or other damage, you usually need to replace the entire sheet which could be
quite expensive.
Due to the chemicals involved in the manufacturing process, vinyl may continue emitting
volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) into the air long after installation.
Cost of material: per square feet is 35 to 220 rupees
 Fig: Vinyl Floori
B. HARDWOOD FLOORING

A high-maintenance but popular option, hardwood flooring is available in strips, planks and
parquet patterns.
These floors can be quite durable if you maintain them well. Hardwood floors are available in
different natural shades like walnut and cherry, and can complement a variety of decor
themes.
While hardwood flooring is relatively expensive when compared to other options, it’s still a
popular choice in terms of aesthetics.
Wear and tear can sometimes cause noises, creaks and squeaking.

Advantages:
Well-cared-for hardwood floors are durable and elegant looking. They are versatile for styling
and easy to keep clean with a broom and dustpan.

Disadvantages:
Hardwood is more expensive and requires maintenance. Moisture will ruin hardwood if not
tended to immediately. Hardwood also needs to be refinished occasionally.
Cost of material: per square feet is 85 to 730 rupees
 Fig: Hardwood Flooring

GRANITE FLOORING
A naturally occurring stone available in a variety of colours in the Indian market, granite
flooring can bring a note of sophistication to any setting.
The stone keeps cool for most parts of the year and hence is a good choice from the types of
flooring in India.

Advantages:
Granite tiles are extremely flexible and can be used in a number of ways. Not only can you use
Granite tiles for flooring but they can also be used for walls as well. Granite offers you the
chance to get creative and use it in a variety of places around your home.
Granite is usually one of the cheapest options around, so if you are on a tighter budget then
Granite tiles are definitely one of your best options to look into. Granite tends to be cheaper
per square foot than most other materials out there.
Granite tiles are perfect for family homes as they can take a lot of wear and tear over the
years, which makes the stone brilliant for families with younger children. Kitchens tend to
have high volumes of traffic so an bonus is that it will not be easily damaged over the years.
As Granite is incredibly strong, it is scratch resistant which means it is great for flooring within
the kitchen as it tends to be a high traffic area. Being scratch resistant means that your
Granite tiles will look great for even longer, so you do not need to worry about replacing it any
time soon.
Being non-porous means that your Granite tiles are incredibly water resistant as well, which
means that any spillages that occur will not be soaked up and result in damage to your tiles.
Granite tiles are known for being incredibly easy for cleaning and maintaining within the
home, which what makes them so perfect for using within the kitchen as that is one of the
messiest areas of the home. It also makes them great for anyone with younger children who
like to spend time in the kitchen getting creative.

Disadvantages:
As Granite is a very heavy stone, you need to be careful when using is for your kitchen
worktops. You need to ensure that you have sufficient support underneath to ensure that the
Granite tiles do not end up falling and damaging your kitchen.
Unfortunately, there are not always a good range of colours and patterns available with
Granite tiles which means that you may have trouble finding the perfect look and style to suit
your kitchen.
Cost of material: per square feet is 81 to 143 rupees

Fig: Granite Floorin

BAMBOO FLOORING
Bamboo is a naturally occurring material and the flooring done in this material resembles
hardwood flooring.
Bamboo flooring is fairly easy to maintain as it is water and stain-resistant and can bring a
sophisticated feel to your home decor.
The only factors that can mar the uber-chic look of a bamboo flooring are scratches which
inevitably find a place on it.
Humid weather can cause the Bamboo planks to plump up, so it’s best used in moderately dry
conditions.

Advantages:
Made from natural vegetation, bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable flooring material.
Much like hardwood and cork, it can be refinished to regain its original look.
It is easy to clean. Regular vacuuming and occasional mopping using an alkaline-free solution
is enough.
Natural and un-carbonized bamboo (with proper harvesting and processing) can be as durable
as hardwood.

Disadvantages:
It is not suitable for high-humidity areas, as bamboo is prone to mould and other problems
caused by moisture.
It is very susceptible to scratches caused by heavy furniture and sharp pet claws.
Bamboo flooring often contains adhesives made up of VOCs that are harmful to your
surroundings.
Cost of material: per square feet is 240 rupees

Fig: Bamboo Flooring

LAMINATE FLOORING
It is gaining popularity in India for its sheer durability and sturdiness. Easy to install, laminate
flooring is fairly resistant to stains and water damage.
However, leads to complete replacement as it cannot be re-polished or re-done.
The diversity in the range of patterns and finishes makes it a good choice for various decor
styles in Indian homes.
While shopping for laminate flooring among other types of flooring, make sure you ask for the
‘slip-resistant’ kind.

Advantages:
Laminate is an attractive, durable and easy-to-install alternative to solid hardwood flooring.
With sharper high-definition imaging, deeper embossing and improved seaming mechanisms,
laminate looks and feels just like authentic hardwood.
It is easy to maintain and resists scratches and dents.
Unlike marble and wood, laminate does not fade when exposed to sunlight, thus retaining its
original beauty.

Disadvantages:
Laminate contains formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals that can affect the
environment.
Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be sanded and refinished.
Prolonged exposure to standing water can damage it.
Laminate is smooth and slippery.
Cost of material: per square feet is 75 to 200 rupees

Fig: Laminate flooring

TERRAZZO FLOORING
Terrazzo flooring is made up of chips of granite and marble placed in concrete or similar
materials.
Commonly called “mosaic flooring”, these floors are durable enough to stand the test of time.
You might remember them from your grandparent’s home, as they were the norm in the
decades gone by.
Today, these traditional tiles have been re-invented and are now stain-resistant and easy to
maintain.
Cost of material: per square feet is 32 to 150 rupees
 Fig: Terrazzo Flooring

RED OXIDE FLOORING

A cost-effective flooring option, red oxide flooring is much loved due to its timeless and
elegant look.
Easy-to-maintain, red oxide floors are most popular in warm and tropical climates.
However, red oxide floors are quite difficult to lay and require skilled masons.
In recent years, other shades of red oxide like green, blue, yellow and black are gaining
popularity.
Cost of material: per square feet is 80 to 90 rupees

2. Factors Affecting Selection of Flooring Material

The selection of flooring material is done based on the following factors:

 Initial cost
 Durability
 Hardness
 Smoothness
 Cleanliness
 Appearance
 Sound insulation
 Thermal insulation
 Damp proof
 Fire resistance
 Maintenance