Types Of Flooring Available in India

When it comes to flooring, most Indian homeowners commonly think of either marble or tiles. However, there are a number of flooring options available in India, some of which are common, while others are lesser known. Each of these options have their own merits in terms of aesthetics, costs, durability and other factors.Here is a list of 11 of the most popular flooring options in India:

Marble Flooring

Marble is a naturally occurring material found at various places throughout India. Associated with style and opulence, marble is available in a variety of colors including pink, grey and white. The material is highly porous and fairly easy to maintain, sometimes lasting  more than 25 years, when cared for properly. However, it has been noticed that some low-quality stones tend to turn yellowish over the years. Because of its natural occurrence and limited availability, this one is priced steeply and hence serves as a sort of ‘status symbol’ for many Indians.

Vitrified Tile Flooring

Vitrified 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, colors, prints and textures. Tiles can also be designed to simulate natural materials such as wood, bamboo and even marble. An affordable option suitable for both interior and exterior use, vitrified tiles are available in glossy, matte and anti-skid finishes. 

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. Stain resistant and water resistant, these floors are quite durable. However, you will need to take special care to protect the floor from scratches. People looking for a warm material which replicates the appearance of cold flooring materials like hardwood and stone find this to be the ideal choice. One low point with vinyl its susceptiblity to discoloration when it comes in contact with rubber.

Hardwood Flooring

A high-maintenance but nonetheless popular option, hardwood flooring is available in strips, planks and parquet patterns. When properly maintained, these floors can be quite durable. 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.

Granite Flooring

A naturally occurring stone available in a variety of colors in the Indian market, granite flooring can bring a note of  sophistication to any setting. Due to its high stain resistance and durability, granite is fairly easy to maintain and only needs protection from scratches. The stone keeps cool for most parts of the year and hence is a good choice for flooring in India.

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 distinctly 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.

Concrete Flooring

Concrete is a man-made product composed of cement, rocks, granite chips and other material. Flooring done in concrete is strong and probably among the most durable flooring options out there. Concrete flooring is largely damage resistant ,except for slight chipping and scratching due to wear and tear. However, moisture can adversely affect a badly done floor with cracks and craters. Today, concrete floors are found in a wide range of colours and textures in Indian homes.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring 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, once damages, this type of flooring will need complete replacement as it cannot be re-polished or re-done. The diversity in the range of patterns and finishes makes it well suited to various decor styles in Indian homes. While shopping for laminate flooring, make sure you ask for the ‘slip-resistant’ kind.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum is an eco-friendly flooring material produced from raw materials like linseed oil, cork, dust and resin. A cost efficient and highly versatile (in terms of design) flooring option, it’s very popular in Indian homes. However, the soft surface is prone to dents and scratches from careless usage. For such reasons, this type of flooring should ideally be used in areas of the house which see low traffic.

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.

Brick Flooring

Due to its cost effectiveness, brick flooring is widely popular in most parts of India. Known for their extraordinary strength, fire resistance, and extensive durability, bricks are easy to clean. However, bricks are highly porous and can be chipped easily.  Aesthetically versatile, brick flooring can be laid out in different patterns including  staggered, basket weave and other arrangements. This is one of the best  options  if you are looking for a floor which maintains a moderate temperature to add a hint of a rustic style to your home.

Courtesy-

http://www.livspace.com/magazine/types-flooring-available-india/