flooring

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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.

Natural stone tile flooring

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

• Polypropylene Carpets

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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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 (QuercusSuber) 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

Pavers and engineering bricks

• 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.

Recycled and handmade bricks

• 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 multicoloursTexture: 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

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.

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.

Characteristics Of Linoleum Flooring

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

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.

Marble flooring

• 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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

Bamboo and strand woven bamboo flooring

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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

•

• 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.

• 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.

VCT

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

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.

• 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

• 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.

Laminate flooring

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.

• 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.

Concrete flooring

• 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

• 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.

Soft and Hardwood flooring

Wood flooring

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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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.Becausethey 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.

• 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

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.

• 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.

Unfinished and finished parquet flooring

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

• 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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

Rubber flooring

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

Kismet tile(morroccan made)

Leather flooring tiles

Glass flooring

Liqiud lava floor tiles(poly carbonate)

Sand stone flooring

Terrazo flooring

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.

Vitreous and semi vitreous mosaic

Adhesives used in flooring

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

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,SmallScrewdriver,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

• Clean the Installation

• Grout the Tile using a putty knife

• Clean and Seal the Material

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

Replacing Old Tongue-and-Groove Boards

• 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.

Filling Gaps Between Boards

Cut a strip of wood to fit in the gap. Apply wood glue to both sides of the strip

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.