Natural stone tile flooring comes in different types of stone with varying properties. The porosity or absorption level of natural stone ranges from non-vitreous being the most porous to impervious being the least porous. Proper sealing is required to protect more porous stones from absorbing liquids. Granite is relatively waterproof while sandstone is the most porous. Natural stone flooring provides a unique, eco-friendly flooring option but requires periodic sealing and some stones can scratch or chip easily.

1. flooring
v.suryateja

2. Natural Stone Tile Flooring
• Natural stone refers to a variety of mountain born materials
including Slate, Marble, Limestone, Travertine, Granite, and
Sandstone. Each of these has slightly different properties. It's
important to understand the characteristics of the type of
stone flooring tile you are installing in order to determine
whether it is appropriate for a specific location.

3. Natural stone tile flooring

4. There are 4 levels of absorption that a tile can have;
• non-vitreous: This is the highest absorption level. In most
cases non-vitreous tiles should not be used in any damp
environment.
• Semi-vitreous: While these tiles are less absorbent, the more
liquid they are exposed to, the more maintenance they will
require.
Vitreous: This is the standard absorption level for flooring
tiles and these materials are generally considered appropriate
for most low to mid traffic indoor and outdoor applications.
• Impervious: These materials are resistant to the absorption of
liquids and thus will be easier to maintain. They are often
used in high traffic commercial applications.

5. • Specific Tile Absorption Rates: In general, Sandstone is the
most porous natural stone material, Travertine, Limestone,
and Slate have medium absorbency, and Granite is relatively
waterproof. Polished materials also absorb less water than
honed or clefted surfaces.
• Benefits of Using Natural Stone Flooring
• Each piece of stone is a unique creation of the earth, making
every flooring application one of a kind.
• The mountain born qualities of the stone can help to
reconnect a space with the natural world.
• While there is some debate about the ecological impact of
quarrying and transporting stone materials, the tiles
themselves are natural, nonpolluting, eco-friendly pieces.
Purchasing stones which were acquired locally can cut down
on the environmental impact of transport.

6. • Drawbacks of Using Natural Stone Flooring
• With the exception of Granite and some Slate, natural stone is
quite porous, and needs to be treated with a sealing agent
periodically to protect its surfaces.
• Some polished materials such as marble can scratch easily.
• Some stones are also very brittle, and will chip easily.

7. Carpet Fibers
• Nylon Carpets
• Very soft, durable, and resistant to stains, nylon is the most
popular carpet material and is used in roughly three quarters
of all manufactured pieces.

8. • Polyester Carpets
• These fibers are prized because they are able to hold
vibrant, dramatic colors that do not fade much over time.
They are non-allergenic, and in many cases this material
is crafted from recycled plastic bottles making it eco-friendly.
The only drawback is that it's susceptible to
having its fibers flattened under repeated exposure to
weight, making it a bad choice for high traffic areas.

9. • Polypropylene Carpets
• Almost as soft as nylon, these fibers are extremely resilient
and resistant to stains, mildew, and shedding.

10. • Wool Carpets
• This is a natural, luxurious, long lasting material that is the
softest carpet fiber you can find. Unfortunately low grade
wool is more susceptible to staining, while high grade wool is
extremely expensive. Some manufacturers combine wool with
synthetic fibers in order to create a carpet with the benefits of
both.

11. • Carpet Pile
• Carpet is made by looping yarn through a piece of backing
material in a movement that is similar to sewing a button on a
shirt. These loops can then either be left intact or cut at
various angles. The way the loop is treated is known as the
carpet pile.

12. • Uncut Carpet Pile
• Also known as "loop pile" or "berber pile." This method leaves
the entire loop intact on the surface of the piece. These
carpets tend to be highly durable, easy to clean, and resistant
to stains, making them perfect for high traffic commercial
applications. Uncut pile carpets also don't show indentations
caused by footprints and vacuum marks.
The drawback is these carpets tend to be less soft and padded
than their cut counterparts. Also the loops can be a snagging
hazard if you have pets or small children

13. • Cut Carpet Pile
• This method tends to produce very soft, pleasant looking
carpets that are easy to clean. The drawback is that the rigid
nature of the threads makes it easier to see foot marks and
vacuum trails. It also makes wear and tear more obvious,
which means that these carpets need to be replaced more
often.
• Different styles can be created by changing the angle of the
shearing that slices the loop, or by using different treatments
on the thread before and after it is inserted into the backing.

14. • Saxony Cut Pile
• This is probably the most iconic carpet pile, featuring
individual strands standing straight up and down to create a
plush, fuzzy surface. The drawback to this style is the fact that
those strands can be crushed down by feet and vacuums,
leaving impressions in its surface. It is also susceptible to wear
and tear, as well as staining. Saxony carpets should only be
used in low traffic areas.

15. • Textured Cut Pile
• This style is also called "trackless" because it doesn't show
footprints and other marks in its surface as much as Saxony
pile carpets. This is accomplished by taking individual yarns
and twisting them into spirals, which are set using heated
steam. The spiral strands do not reflect light as much as
straight ones, and so when they are crushed down by a heavy
object it's not as noticeable. This is suitable for mid to high
level traffic areas

16. • Frieze Cut Pile
• In this pile the individual strands are tightly twisted and
kinked, causing them to curl erratically across the surface of
the carpet. This is a highly durable style that tends to hide dirt
and wear, and is suitable for high traffic and commercial
settings.

17. • Plush Carpet Pile
• Sometimes called "velvet cut pile" this style features short,
densely packed fibers in order to create a rich and luxurious
carpet surface. Unfortunately this carpet style is fairly
temperamental and is prone to wearing down, scuffing, and
showing footprints in its surface. This should only be used in a
luxurious, low traffic setting.

18. Cork flooring
• For years cork has had a rough reputation in the flooring
design world. Old installations often employed low
quality materials that were not properly maintained and
cared for, resulting in shabby surfaces that quickly
degraded over time.
• However in recent years there has been a resurgence in
the popularity of cork flooring, as advances in
manufacture have made maintenance and care easier
than ever. Today you’ll find cork being used in every room
in the home, as well as in some commercial spaces.

19. How Cork Flooring is Made
• Cork is one of the most renewable resources on the planet. It
is manufactured from the bark of the cork oak (Quercus
Suber) which is an evergreen that grows in the Mediterranean
region of Southern Europe and Northern Africa.
• Cork Oak trees are grown specifically for the harvesting of
their bark, which is done in the summer when it becomes
loose against the trunk of the trees. The harvesting of the
bark is a process that does NO HARM to the trees. Rather the
bark naturally grows back every 9-10 years, allowing a single
crop of Cork Oaks to continue producing for decades.
• Once the bark is harvested it is granulated, and then pressed
flat with binding agents such as resin. It is then baked into the
sheets that are used in flooring installations.

20. Benefits of Cork Flooring
• Cork flooring can be installed in virtually any room in the
house. However it will require special care in moist, damp
areas, or spaces that get a high level of traffic.
• Soft: If you have ever pulled a cork from a wine bottle then
you know how soft and pliable this material can be. It has a
yielding surface beneath the feet that is very comfortable to
stand on even for long periods of time.
• Sound: An installation of cork flooring will act as natural
insulation for a space, blocking out ambient noise that can
come from rooms below. This is due to the fact that its surface
is made up of millions of cells filled with air, acting as tiny
sound cushions.

21. • Impact: Cork also cushions impact sounds that can come from
rolling or sliding furnishings across the floor, an important
feature in schools and hospitals.
• Green: Cork flooring is all natural, biodegradable, and very
renewable.
• Resilient: Cork’s ability to bounce back from impressions
means that most objects will not leave dents in its surface.
• Non Slip: Even when wet cork can provide a good level of
traction for your feet.
Drawbacks to Cork Flooring
• Maintenance: In order to keep an installation looking
attractive you will have to perform regular cleaning and
maintenance on it.
• Stains: If not sealed properly cork can be stained very easily
by dirt, spills, or other contaminants.

22. • Moisture: Cork flooring is generally not recommended in
very moist environments unless it is properly sealed
several times in order to protect the material. This seal
will have to be reapplied periodically to prevent moisture
from penetrating the surface of the floor.
• Dents: You will need to place protective mats underneath
the legs of particularly heavy furniture to prevent
permanent divots from forming.
• Replacement: With proper maintenance a cork floor can
last for years however eventually it will begin to show
signs of wear and need to be replaced.

24. Brick flooring
• Brick is the oldest human manufactured flooring material, and
its use dates back thousands of years. Historically it has often
been employed as an alternative to stone, and was commonly
used in the construction of houses and manors that did not
require the protective qualities of real stone. With the rise of
cities it surged in popularity, due largely to the fact that it was
a relatively durable, inexpensive, and fire proof building
material.

25. • Pavers: Flooring bricks are called pavers, and are thinner than
construction grade materials. They are generally used because
they do not raise the level of the floor, and they place a
significantly lower weight load on the subfloor.Pavers are fired
at a much higher temperature than construction grade bricks
in a process called “overburning” which causes them to
become impervious to moisture and makes the surface of the
material resistant to wear Engineering bricks:
These are the standard thick bricks that you will see used in
the construction of buildings. Their size means that they raise
the level of the floor while also placing a lot of weight on the
subfloor.These materials are relatively durable and resistant to
stains and wear; however they may be susceptible to damage
from water if not sealed. Over time engineered brick flooring
will begin to erode, and pits will appear in the surface of your
installation.

26. Pavers and engineering bricks

27. • Recycled Brick Flooring: Many people like the look of
old, weathered brick, as it can lend a sense of history and
charm to a space. Rather than waiting years for a new
flooring installation to weather, you can get the charm
instantly by installing reclaimed brick flooring taken from
old houses and residences. This process is also eco
friendly as it does not require the manufacture of new
materials, however it can be expensive.
• Hand Made Bricks: There are companies that specialize
in the production of hand made bricks, created and fired
individually. The appeal of these materials is that each
brick represents a unique work of human craft, with its
own individual characteristics and personality. While this
is the most expensive brick flooring option it can result in
an impressive installation.

28. Recycled and handmade bricks

29. • Color: The color of a brick depends on the source of the clay
used, how it is mixed, and how long it is fired for. Standard
brick flooring ranges from light tan colors, through deep ruby
reds, and on into charcoal hues. However bricks can also be
dyed green, blue, black, or can be speckled with several
multicolours
Texture: The surface of brick flooring can be smooth and
somewhat polished, rough and mottled, ribbed, or slightly
ridged depending on the texture that you want in an area.
While most pavers are impervious to water some engineered
brick or second hand brick floors may need to be sealed in
moist environments. For outdoor flooring you also want to
make sure that you use frost proof bricks.

30. • Heat: Brick is a relatively good insulator, and while it takes a
long time to heat up, it can retain that heat very well. That is
why brick floors are often paired with under floor heating
systems. It is also warmer to the touch than ceramic or natural
stone flooring.
• Durability: Brick is one of the hardest and most durable
flooring materials available. It requires little to no
maintenance, and an installation can last for years.
• Slip Resistant: Unless it is polished and or sealed with oil,
brick is very slip resistant, and will not pose a slipping hazard
even when wet.
Cost: Brick flooring is relatively economical, and is less
expensive than natural stone alternatives.

31. • Hardness: The hardness of the material means that items
dropped on it are more likely to shatter. It will also be more
painful when someone falls on a brick floor than it would on
a softer surface. This can be a concern if there are children or
elderly people living in the space. It may also be
uncomfortable to stand on for long periods of time.
• Replacement: The durability of brick means that you will not
have to replace your floor for many years. However if you do
want to remove a brick floor it can be an expensive, costly,
and time consuming process. In some cases, a brick floor may
be a suitable subfloor for an underlayment, allowing for a new
floor to be installed on top of it.

32. • Weight: The heaviness of brick means that it can only be
installed on the ground floor. Often it will require a cement
subfloor in order to bear its weight. If installing over a floating
wooden subfloor then the structure will need to be reinforced
in order to support the weight
accrington - a type of engineering brick
• Acid brick - acid resistant bricks
• Hollow - not solid, the holes are less than 25% of the brick
volume
• Nanak Shahi bricks - a type of brick in India

35. Linoleum flooring
Linoleum is a floor covering made from renewable
materials such as solidified linseed oil (linoxyn), pine
rosin, ground cork dust, wood flour, and mineral fillers
such as calcium carbonate, most commonly on a burlap
or canvas backing; pigments are often added to the
materials.

36. Characteristics Of Linoleum Flooring
Durability: Linoleum flooring is extremely resistant to scratches,
dents, and mars in the surface of the material. For the most part
cracking damage has been mitigated with new manufacturing
processes and curling can be prevented with a proper water tight
installation, and regular sealing maintenance.
Colorfast: The hues and patterns found in linoleum flooring actually
extend down through the wear layer, so you do not see fading and
marring of in the surface of the material over time.
Anti Static: Some flooring materials tend to collect dust and dirt,
holding them, and then radiating them back into the air when
walked upon. This can trigger allergic reactions or breathing
problems in asthmatic individuals. However linoleum has an anti
static property which inherently causes it to repel these harmful
particles from its surface.

37. • Anti Microbial: Linoleum naturally inhibits the growth of
germs and microscopic organisms, which makes it a popular
material in schools and hospitals.
• Moisture: Linoleum is a porous material and can be damaged
by water if not properly sealed. However a properly installed
and regularly maintained linoleum flooring application is
impenetrable and resistant to damage from water and
moisture, making this material suitable for use in bathrooms
and kitchens.
• Comfort: Linoleum flooring is soft and comfortable underfoot,
and tends to stay warm even in cold temperatures.

38. • Installation: Linoleum is relatively simple to install and
does not require the use of grout. It can often be
installed as a floating floor, so that adhesives are not
necessary. Tile and plank linoleum tends to be much
easier to work with than sheet materials.
• Style: Because this material became popular during the
Victorian era it has a sense of history which allows it to
blend more comfortably with antiques and other classic
style furnishings than some of its contemporary
counterparts such as vinyl or rubber

39. • Green Factors
• Linoleum is manufactured using all natural, easily
renewable materials including linseed oil, cork powder,
and other organic additives.
• Some linoleum installations require adhesive, however
the majority do not, and can be installed as floating
floors without the need to use toxic adhesives in your
home.
• A linoleum floor can last for 20-40 years or even longer
depending on the environment and level of traffic in an
area. At the end of its life cycle these materials can either
be incinerated in order to produce a relatively clean
energy source, or they can be entered into a landfill
where they will biodegrade without harmful noxious off-gassing.

40. Marble Flooring
• Marble is one of the most lavish and elegant flooring options
available. It has a rich history, and has been the material of
choice for designers, architects, and artists throughout all of
human history. All natural, marble floor tiles are quarried
from mountain ranges in countries around the world, and are
available in a number of different finishes, sizes, and colors
While marble is an elegant and sophisticated flooring option,
it does require a certain amount of care and maintenance. It
needs to be treated on a regular basis to protect it against
spills and moisture. It is also susceptible to certain kinds of
stains and damage.

41. Marble flooring

42. • Acid Stains: Marble is an alkalai, which means that it is a base
in an acid base relationship. This is important in flooring
because if any acidic substance falls on an untreated marble
floor it will cause a chemical reaction. The result of this
reaction will be a permanent discoloration of the marble.
• Common acidic substances include fruit products and juices,
sodas, vinegar based mixes, as well as a variety of soaps and
cleaning agents. Spills should be wiped up immediately with a
damp cloth. Regular sealing of the tiles will help to protect
them to some extent. Never use acid based cleaning solutions
on a marble floor
Slip Resistance: In flooring slip resistance is measured by the
coefficient of friction, which calculates how much force it
takes to move a specific weight over a surface. The higher the
coefficient of friction the less slippery a floor is.

43. • The coefficient of friction of a marble floor depends on the
type of finish that the stone has. A polished marble floor has a
very low coefficient of friction, especially when wet, making it
a potential slip hazard in the wrong space. Honed, tumbled, or
brushed marble tiles all have greater traction due to the
dimensional elements in the surface of the stone.
Physical Damage: While you usually think of stone as being a
very hard substance, marble is actually quite soft and can
suffer from damage due to cracks, chips, and breakage.
Proper care taken during installation can prevent this to some
extent, by making sure that there are no gaps in the thin set
under the tile that can create weak pockets of air that will
become faults in the floor.

44. Bamboo Flooring
• While bamboo flooring installations have the look, feel, and
many of the characteristics of hardwood materials, they are
actually made from a type of grass. Bamboo is a perennial
evergreen which is also a member of the true grass family. It is
grown primarily in southern and eastern Asia where it is an
important part of the local economy.
• Bamboo is a highly renewable natural resource because it is
one of the fastest growing plants on earth. Where trees can
take twenty to one hundred and twenty years to grow to full
maturity, bamboo is a grass, and it can reach its full height in
as little as three to five years. It is a relatively hardy and easy
to maintain plant, and it can be harvested without removing
the root, which means that it does not have to be replanted
each season.

45. • Traditional Bamboo Flooring: The traditional method of
making bamboo floors involves slicing the stems of the plant
into thin, flat planks. These can be stained a particular color,
varnished, or left untreated depending on the desired
effect.These strips are then nailed down to wooden beams or
larger bamboo pieces to create a support system. Generally
the arrangement of the planks is loose, leaving irregular gaps
throughout the floor. The result is a floor that breathes,
creating a room that stays cooler and more ventilated in the
summer. This is the most common type of Bamboo flooring
used in Asia. It is also commonly found in stilted homes.
• Strand Woven Bamboo Flooring: First the stalks of the
bamboo plant are sliced into thin strips so that they can be
treated for insects or vermin. Often the material will be
boiled, or dipped in borax. The material is then shredded into
fibers and mixed with an adhesive. The fibers are pressed
together into blocks using heat and pressure.

46. Bamboo and strand woven bamboo
flooring

47. • Once the blocks are formed the material is cut down into
usable plank sizes. It is then thoroughly sanded, and any
applicable stain or finish is applied at that point.
• Solid Bamboo Flooring: This type of bamboo flooring is
manufactured in a complex process that begins by slicing the
stalks of the plants into thin strips of a certain length. The
outer skin is removed, and the strips are boiled in boric acid to
remove any starches that may be present. The material is
then laid out to dry
The natural color of bamboo is a soft, light tan color; however
it can be darkened using a process known as carbonization.
This is where the raw material is steamed using a controlled
blast of pressure and heat which causes its surface to take on
a darker, richer hue. Unfortunately this process can also
reduce the durability and hardness of the bamboo. Whether
carbonized or not, the bamboo slices are then kiln dried.

48. • The strips of bamboo are then coated in an adhesive
resin, and are then pressed together either horizontally,
with the flat strips laying atop one another, or vertically,
with the strips stood on end and pressed together from
either side. This presses the individual strips together
into a solid and durable plank. The bonded strands are
then pressed in heat binders to dry the adhesive and join
the disparate strands. The raw material is then planed
and sanded down into the final planks that will be used
as flooring material. A light, UV lacquer is then applied to
the planks to assist in the curing process. Finally the
planks are sanded to a smooth finish, and any finish that
is desired is applied.

49. • Engineered Bamboo Flooring: With engineered bamboo the
stalks are still sliced, treated, and adhered together as is done
for solid bamboo flooring. However after this is complete, the
solid planks are then sliced down into thin horizontal layers.
These slices are then installed on a backing material such as
plywood or fiberboard using heat, pressure, and adhesive.

50. Vinyl flooring
• Vinyl refers to a range of synthetically manufactured flooring
materials which contain varying levels of polyvinyl chloride
also known as PVC. The quality of this material can vary
widely, and will be based on factors such as its physical
composition, constituent materials, and the level of wear
protection that it has on its surface.

51. • Solid vinyl tiles:-This material is manufactured by
molding vinyl resins and fillers into the desired size and
shape of the tile. Solid vinyl has a more natural look to it
than other vinyl materials, with the surface of each tile
featuring a random assortment of abstract patterns and
colors.The colors found in these tiles are homogenous,
which means that they penetrate completely through the
material. This helps to prevent and obscure damage that
can be caused by scratching or gouging the floor.

52. • These pieces are manufactured in a layering system that includes a
backing which is often padded, a print layer, and then one or two
clear wear layers that lay over the printed surface, protecting it
from damage.
• These tiles can have almost any image imprinted on them,
providing the widest range of colors and textures available. High
end tiles can also reproduce the look of natural flooring such as
weathered stone, marble or hardwoods. Designer tiles can also be
made printed with images of river stones, grass, or mosaic images
One big advantage of printed vinyl tile is that the wear layer makes
it very easy to clean, and generally this material will not require
stripping and polishing. However over time this wear layer will
break down, which makes these tiles less durable over the long
term than some of their counterparts. The quality of the wear layer
will be based on what it is comprised of, as well as how thick it is.
• There are two main types of wear layer. A poly-vinyl chloride is
basically a layer or two of clear vinyl which rests over the print layer.
This provides a low to moderate level of protection. A urethane
wear layer creates a surface over the vinyl, providing a much
stronger and more
•

53. • Grade 1: The thickest surface sealant layer, this can be use in
light commercial or high traffic residential jobs.
• Grade 2: A thinner layer, this is only recommended for
medium traffic residential or very low traffic commercial
installations.
• Grade 3: The thinnest wear layer, these tiles should only be
used in mid to low traffic residential areas.

54. • Vinyl composite tile:-This has been a popular flooring
material in Europe for over a century, and it is just now
becoming popular in America. These tiles are created by
combining vinyl resin with mineral dust filler. The result is an
extremely hard, durable tile that is much more resilient long
term than other options. The only drawback is that these tiles
tend to be brittle, and if not installed on a completely smooth
subfloor surface, even the tiniest specks of dirt or grit can
cause them to crack under pressure over time
• VCT’s are available in a variety of solid colors and terrazzo
style patterns. This material is homogenous, so scratches and
gouges do not remove a printed surface layer. This is a
popular material in both residential and commercial locations.

55. VCT

56. Here we see vinyl floor planks printed with simulated wood grain
matched with tiles printed to simulate natural stone to create an
integrated and visually appealing effect

57. Laminate flooring
• Laminate flooring is one of the most resilient and durable
floor surfaces available. A relatively recent invention, it has
gained in popularity due to its ease of installation, low
maintenance requirements, and long life. This material can
also be printed to simulate a wide variety of natural flooring
materials include hardwood planks, and slate and ceramic
tiles.
• Laminate is a type of synthetic flooring that is made by fusing
several layers of different material together using heat,
pressure, and adhesive, in a process known as lamination.
While laminates are often manufactured to replicate the look
of a variety of hardwood surfaces, they actually contain no
wood materials. Rather, they are constructed from resins and
fiberboard particles.

58. • Top Wear Layer: The top layer of a laminate floor is known as
the wear layer, an invisible surface that rests over the
material, protecting it from scratches and other damage. This
is generally made from an aluminum oxide chemical
treatment.
• Photograph Layer or Decorative Layer: This is the surface that
gives the laminate its actual appearance. It is created when an
image or pattern is printed on paper like materials that are
embedded in resin. The actual image can be almost anything,
but typically laminate floors are manufactured to simulate the
look of hardwood, cork, bamboo, natural stone, ceramic, or
even brick pavers.
• Fiberboard Core: This is the heart of the material and it
provides the depth, structure, and stability of the actual
surface covering. It is generally comprised of wood chips or
sawdust ground into a very fine powder, then coated with
resin, and pressed into flat sheets

59. • Back Layer: Many laminates will have a moisture barrier back
layer. This works with the water resistant wear layer on top to
sandwich the fiberboard and picture layers of the laminate,
creating a water tight seal around the core material. The back
layer also provides additional stability for the installation.
• Underlayment: Laminate flooring must be installed over
underlayment. This is most often cork or foam rolls. An
appropriate underlayment can also reduce the hollow noise
that occurs when walking on some laminate floors.

60. Laminate flooring

61. Concrete flooring
• Concrete is the most basic flooring material. Generally it is just the
surface of the slab that is poured directly onto the gravel or dirt bed
in order to install the foundation of a building. Strong, durable, and
extremely long lasting, it has also developed a reputation for being
austere, utilitarian, and course underfoot.
• However modern advancements have given flooring professionals a
variety of design options that are allowing them to completely
reinvent this basic building material. Today concrete floors can be
polished smooth, or textured to provide traction. They can also be
painted or stained with a variety of techniques that allow you to
replicate the look of natural materials, or embed the floor with
complex printed designs.

62. • Most structures are built on a sand or gravel bed that
rests beneath a concrete slab that acts as the base of the
building. This layer is covered with a vapor barrier sheet
that prevents moisture from moving up into the
concrete. A welded wire fabric mesh sheet is then placed
over that in order to aid with adhesion. Finally the
concrete slab is poured directly onto these layers.
• In some places the concrete will extend downward in
either monolithic, or footed foundations which will act to
anchor the structure to the earth. These beams extend
down past the frost line, and are often surrounded with
insulation and hard sheet material in order to protect
their structural integrity.

63. Concrete flooring

64. • Softwood Flooring: This includes materials harvested from a
variety of trees, most commonly Pine, Fir, and Cedar. These
species tend to mature very quickly, and are readily abundant.
However their rapid growth leads to the wood itself being less
dense, and therefore less durable. This can make it
susceptible to dents and scratches. It also makes it harder to
refinish, as low spots can rapidly be created by sanding
machines Despite these drawbacks many people still choose
to either expose, or preserve softwood flooring surfaces in
their home, due to the beauty, and unique characteristics of
the material. The material is also more eco-friendly because it
can be locally sourced, and is rapidly renewable

65. • Hardwood Flooring: The trees that hardwood materials
are harvested from grow much slower, and end up being
far denser, and more durable than softwood
counterparts. This means that they last longer and
require less maintenance. The actual durability of species
will vary, and is rated by the National Oak Flooring
Manufacturers Association (NOMFA) using the Wood
Hardness Rating scale.
• Large Spaces:Wood is a particularly good flooring
material for large open spaces. That is because the grains
and patterns found within its surface will help to break
up the monotony of the room, acting as a backdrop,
while also working to infuse interest and design into the
space. This effect will be compounded by the use of
plank, parquet, and small piece decorative hardwood
installations.

66. Soft and Hardwood flooring

67. Wood flooring

69. Ceramic flooring
• Ceramic is a durable, hard surface tile material. It is made
predominantly from refined clay, mixed with a variety of
natural sediments including ground shale, gypsum, talc, and
gritty sand particles. This is then stirred together with water
to create a mix that is called a bisque. The bisque is forced
through a die, which is a mold of the shape that the tile will
take on. It is then fired in a kiln in order to set the bisque, and
harden the material. The heat of the flames used, as well as
the length that it is cooked for will vary depending on the
exact type of material being manufactured.

70. • Unglazed Ceramic: (Sometimes known as quarry tile)
Made from standard red clay materials, unglazed
ceramics do not have a surface coating, and so retain the
natural look of the materials used in their manufacture.
While the tile itself is quite hard, the lack of glazing does
leave the surface prone to stains and moisture
penetration. As such these tiles need to be sealed
periodically.
• Glazed Ceramic: This is formed from the same clay
bisque mix, fired into a very hard, durable material.
However these tiles get a melted glass glaze, which is
layered over the surface of the piece. This glaze not only
protects the ceramic, making it impregnable to water and
stains, but it can also be printed with a variety of vibrant,
eye catching colors, patterns, and natural surface
imitations.

71. • Single Glaze: A technique known as monocottura, this
involves coating the tile in the decorative protective glaze, and
then firing it once to complete the process. This makes an
extremely durable, and attractive ceramic floor piece.
• Double Glaze: This technique is known as bicottura, and it
involves coating and firing the ceramic once, then coating and
firing it a second time. This ends up weakening the tile, but
produces a surface image which is much sharper, and more
vibrant

72. • Porcelain Flooring: Clay tiles which are kiln fired at
extremely high temperatures to produce a material
which is stronger and more durable than nearly any
other hard surface flooring available. With a .5%
absorption rate it is frost and water resistant, and can be
used in most indoor and outdoor locations. Full body
porcelain has colors that go all the way through whereas
glazed materials have a decorative surface layer.Because
they are so much harder, porcelain tiles can be more
difficult to cut and shape than regular ceramics. However
the price will generally be comparable between the two.

73. • Terra Cotta Floors: These are also made from clay but they
are fired at a very low temperature, and form a tile which is
relatively delicate. easy to break, and prone to stains. While
this material is not appropriate in every location, these tiles
can be quite lovely, with a rustic, and sometimes even
handmade appeal that is worth the extra care and
maintenance.
• Mosaics: This refers to any tiles which are 2” in size or smaller.
They can be made from glazed or unglazed ceramic, porcelain,
terra cotta, or even a mix of materials. The fact that they
come in smaller pieces allows for more intricate patterns and
images to be created in a floor. However it also increases the
difficulty of the installation

75. Parquet flooring
• Parquet refers to a type of flooring that is created by taking
very small slats of wood, and arranging them in distinct,
repeating patterns. The wooden pieces are generally formed
into tiles of varying shapes, and then installed in such a way
that the individual pieces all contribute to a greater, concerted
pattern that stretches across the entire floor.

76. • Unfinished Parquet: In it’s natural state, parquet will be
prone to staining and damage and will need to be
finished in order to protect it’s surface. However, with
unfinished parquet tile’s you get to choose the color of
any stains or finishing treatments that will be applied,
giving you a wealth of decorative options.
• Finished Parquet: These tiles are treated with an
extremely durable sealer that is machine applied across
the surface of the material before it is shipped. Because
this is done industrially, the sealer used can be
significantly more durable than one applied on your own.
It also cuts down on the hassle and mess of applying a
finish on site.

77. Unfinished and finished parquet flooring

78. Rubber flooring
• Rubber in its original incarnation is made from the
sap of the para rubber plant, which is a natural and
readily renewable material. In its first commercial
use this can be employed in a variety of products,
including flooring, and most commonly automobile
tires. When these items are worn past use, they can
then be recycled into new rubber floor tiles. This is
an environmentally friendly practice that uses then
reuses an already green material, while also
eliminating waste mass in landfills

79. • Rubber Floor Tiles:- You will most commonly find rubber
flooring sold in tiles cut to standard 12”X12” 18”X18” and
36”X36” sizes. These can then be cut down into specific
sizes or shapes as needed for the space, or your design.
The advantage of tile is that it is extremely easy to install
either with adhesive or click together materials. Tiles can
also be pulled out and replaced without much hassle if a
single piece gets damaged.
• Rubber Floor Sheeting: These consist of long strips
of rubber flooring which are rolled out over a floor to
completely cover the surface. Generally sold in sizes of 4
feet by 20 - 30 feet in length, they can be custom cut so
that the material perfectly matches the shape of the
room. Installation of sheet rubber is more difficult than
tile, but the advantage is that you get an installation that
is without any vulnerable seams.

80. • Natural Rubber: These materials are manufactured using a type of
latex which is extracted from the sap of rubber trees. The tiles and
sheets that are produced in this way are durable, water resistant,
and easy to clean and maintain. The drawback is that natural virgin
rubber flooring will have a relatively noticeable odor, which can
irritate some people. Over time with proper ventilation this should
fade.
• Recycled Rubber: This type of flooring is most commonly made from
recycled automobile tires, which are melted down and then bonded
into usable shapes. This process creates a very strong rubber that is
often more durable than the original materials. In some cases the
finished product may be slightly porous, but that can be solved by
applying a quality sealing agent.
• Synthetic Rubber: This is not real rubber at all, but is rather one of a
series of vinyl, or polyvinyl PVC materials that is manufactured to
have the same soft yielding feel that rubber naturally has. The

81. • advantage is that the floor feels just like the real thing, but is
much more durable and resistant to all stains. The drawback is
that it is a synthetic material made through chemical
processes, which can cause some VOC off gassing
The Environmental Impact Of Rubber :-The durability that
makes rubber appropriate for both exterior and interior use,
can be a problem in landfills where the material can sit for
years without breaking back down into the environment. By
recycling it into new flooring this can be avoided, reducing
waste and freeing up space in an ecologically beneficial
manner. However there is some energy expenditure in the
process of refining recycled rubber, as heat produced by the
burning of fossil fuels is required.

82. • Volatile Organic Chemicals:Depending on the exact makeup of
the recycled rubber, there may be an issue with small
amounts of Volatile Organic Chemicals off gassing for a period
after installation. The Resilient Floor Covering Institute has a
Floor Score program that tests materials and adhesives for
emissions, and supplies an independent rating that
consumers can use to evaluate their options.
• Odor: Recycled rubber flooring that is made from automobile
tires will often have an odor, that can be somewhat
unpleasant in enclosed spaces. This smell will generally be
worse in low quality products manufactured outside of the
United States. It is physically harmless, but it can be
uncomfortable for some people, and certain materials are not
recommended for interior use at all due to these scent issues.

83. Rubber flooring

84. Types of green floorings
• Cork Flooring
• Linoleum Flooring
• Bamboo Flooring
• Eco-Friendly Carpeting
• Hardwood Flooring
• Recycled Hardwood Floors
• Natural Stone Flooring
• Recycled Metal Tiles
• Recycled Glass Tiles
• Toxic ingridients like formaldehyde should not be used in
wood floorings

85. Kismet tile(morroccan made)

86. Leather flooring tiles

87. Glass flooring

88. Liqiud lava floor tiles(poly carbonate)

89. Sand stone flooring

90. Terrazo flooring

91. Mosaic glass flooring
• You may think of glass as being very fragile, and delicate. It’s
nothing that you would ever intentionally put underneath
your feet. But the truth is that mosaic glass tile flooring can be
quite durable, and resilient, and is even used in some high
traffic commercial applications. It also provides a variety of
unique design options, while still being relatively low
maintenance even in humid environments.
• Mosaic flooring was first pioneered in classic Greece. Because
of the artistic possibilities of creating unique pictures and
patterns, its application quickly became a specialized trade
that was prized by the powerful and the wealthy. In the 3000
years since then mosaic flooring has evolved, but it has also
maintained that air of luxurious artistry, an almost royal
presence that it can lend to an environment.

92. Vitreous and semi vitreous mosaic

93. Adhesives used in flooring
• Urethane,natural resins-wood flooring
grout,latex,acrylic,epoxy –tiles
multi purpose adhesives are also available

94. Replacing a slate tile
• Gather Your Materials Goggles,Carbide Tipped Grout
Saw,Hammer,Nail Set,Chisel,Putty Knife,Sandpaper,¼”
Notched Trowel,Thinset Mortar,Rubber Mallet,Piece of 2x4
Hardwood,Needle nose Pliers,Tile Spacers,Small
Screwdriver,Sponge,Rags,Natural Stone Sealer,Matched Slate
Tile,Matched Grout
• Remove the Grout Around the Broken Tile using tipped grout
saw
• Break the Surface of The Tile using hammer and drive the nail
in to the stone
Remove the Tile Shards
Remove the Old Adhesive
• Apply the New Adhesive
• Tap the Tile Down using a 2*4 hardwood

95. • Clean the Installation
• Grout the Tile using a putty knife
• Clean and Seal the Material

96. Replacing hard wood floor
• Replacing Old Tongue-and-Groove Boards
• Cutting Across the Grain
• Replacing Chipboard Floorboards
• Replacing Old Square-Edged Broken Boards
• Matching Board Dimensions
• Securing Loose Boards
• Filling Gaps Between Boards
• Exposed Board Solutions

97. Replacing Old Tongue-and-Groove Boards

98. • Cutting Across the GrainAn alternative way to cut the
damaged board is to cut it across the grain, along a joist. In
this way a smaller section of board can be removed. However,
the adjacent boards would also have small cuts on their
edges. For an exposed floor these would have to be disguised
with an appropriate filler.
• Replacing Chipboard FloorboardsReplacing a section of
chipboard floor is similar to replacing tongue-and-groove
boards. A circular saw is the best tool to use. Any superficial
damage caused to other boards is not important, since the
floor will be covered.

99. Filling Gaps Between Boards
Cut a strip of wood to fit in the gap. Apply wood glue to both
sides of the strip

100. Radiant floor heating system
• Radiant-floor heating systemradiates heat to warm your feet. The
system consists of thin heating cables installed under the flooring
surface. These cables are relatively thin so they will not raise the level
of the flooring and controlled by their own thermostat. Normally they
will require a dedicated 15 to 20 amp GFCI circuit.
• Ceramic Tile- One of the best areas for radiant heat flooring as the tiles
conduct heat fast and the wires
• Wood- Radiant heat flooring needs to be installed carefully beneath
wood as it might crack and dry out the wood.
• Vinyl- A vinyl flooring will be heated fast and the wires will be installed
over mortar or concrete, that will cover the heating elements.
• Carpet- When the carpet is to thick, the radiant heat flooring system
will not work as the heat will be absorb by the carpet material.