Floor Surface Materials

Lesson Video Materials

Floor coverings refer to all types of floor finishing materials from the floor assembly substrate and up. There are many aspects of floor coverings that skilled kitchen and bath designers are familiar with. Having practical knowledge about the floor materials in kitchens and baths, their appropriate use, calculating floor covering areas (square footage or square meters), and testing standards that determine slip-resistance or abrasion resistance are important considerations for the designer to make when recommending flooring in any client’s home.

Cork Flooring

Cork comes from the bark of special oak trees primarily grown in Spain and Portugal. The wood product comes from a renewable process where 6 to 9 inches of bark is cut from the trunk. It takes five to nine years to grow back after harvesting.

Cork is a soft-hard surface. It is soft, warm, and quiet. It also may be helpful to homeowners with allergies. A variety of patterns is available, which are achieved by different peeling techniques: Some look like a cork stopper, some like a bulletin board or burled wood. The most popular finish is natural—similar to natural oak. Cork is also available in different stains, including brown, deep reds, and a white washed tint.

Source cork flooring that is FSC Certified by sustainability harvesting and is 100% plastic free.

Wood Flooring

Throughout the house, wood floors are in great demand today, and wood is a viable flooring material for kitchen and bathroom projects. Hardwoods, renewable woods such as bamboo, and laminated wood floors are all possible choices.

Types of Wood Flooring

Hardwood Flooring

Woods used for floors are mostly cold-weather hardwoods. The slow growth in cold temperatures provides the most durable wood possible. Pine flooring is the exception; it is a softwood that is sometimes used for flooring.

Oak is the most popular wood flooring in residential use because of its beautiful grain and durability. Walnut and cherry flooring also are often specified. Antique reclaimed pine, oak, hickory, and cherry woods are available for rustic interiors.

Awaiting the homeowner seeking broader horizons are exotic woods in either manufactured or custom floors, starting at roughly twice the price of oak. These woods range from the unusually beautiful rosewood to the exceptionally rugged ironwood, to pecan, teak, and the darkest ebony.Wood floors are graded according to standards that measure color, grain, and imperfections. Clear or Select grades are generally specified for a formal look and for lighter finishes. Select and #1 Common grade are used for traditional and light‐to‐medium stained floors. For rustic and specialty areas, specify #2 Common, which features wide color variations and character marks like knots, streaks, and worm-holes.

Parquet Flooring

Simulated 12″ × 12″ tiles or actual individual pieces of wood, it is interlocking, and blind-nailed. Parquet is sold by area (square footage or square meters). Allow for waste and cutting.

Plank Flooring

Interlocking flooring which is blind-nailed. Generally, random lengths of 9″ to 96″ are used, as well as random widths. The width combinations are:

3″ and 4″

3″, 4″ and 6″

3″, 5″ and 7″

4″, 6″ and 8″

The plank flooring is generally sold in bundles. In this case, random lengths and widths cannot be varied. Allow for waste and cutting.

Strip Flooring

Butt flooring which is top-nailed. All boards are the same width (2″ and 2-1/4″) and random lengths. Both plank and strip flooring is sold by board feet. Provide allowance for waste and cutting.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring is constructed from real wood slats that are adhered together in layers at opposing directions to form a plank. The cross-grain configuration minimizes expansion and shrinking, allowing for a tighter fit while installing and less movement after installation is complete. The two main components of engineered hardwood flooring are the substrate, which can be multi-layered and is usually made with an inexpensive wood species, and the surface layer, which is usually a veneer of a higher quality wood species. Engineered hardwood flooring can vary in substrate construction, resulting in different stability levels, thicknesses, and applications.

Laminate Flooring

Prefinished laminated hardwood-looking floors are very functional for a kitchen or bathroom application. Available in tile and plank patterns, the durable laminated finish wears well in a high-traffic or high-use area. In the past, these floors were often very noisy. Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to sound-deaden the surfaces of these floors.

Laminate wood floors are available in highly textured finishes to echo the rustic nature of reclaimed floors.

Material bonded together under high pressure, similar to the laminate products used for countertops. A clear melamine top layer protects the design layer. Then follows a plastic resin impregnated paper layer with wood grain pattern printed on. These are bonded to a structural fiberboard core, backed by a layer of melamine. The clear topmost wear layer is smooth and can be slippery when wet, making laminate flooring a questionable option for baths.Installing laminate flooring entails applying glue to the tongue-and-groove edges of each piece and pressing it into the abutting piece on the floor, without actually attaching it to the floor. The finish floor then “floats” above the substrate. There are currently two choices of underlayments, a 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick, low-density fiber panel, 24- by 30-inches (610 mm by 760 mm), or closed‐cell foam cushion, which is shipped in rolls. Laminate flooring is installed over concrete slab floors in much the same way as over wood‐framed floors, except that a poly vapor barrier is placed over the slab before the underlayment material.

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is a renewable grass product. The product used to make floors is up to 12 inches in diameter and 30 feet high. After harvesting, a 4-foot stump remains, which regenerates in five years.

The product comes in tongue-and-groove boards that can be glued or nailed. While comparable in price to 43-inch solid wood flooring, it is 30 percent harder than oak. The natural color of bamboo is light, resembling maple, and offers a clean, contemporary look. It is also available in a darker brown finish as well. Darker woods, because the color goes all the way through, can be sanded and refinished.

Bamboo can be installed anywhere an engineered wood product can be used, provided there is not too much moisture from the slab. A key ingredient to a successful bamboo installation is acclimation: The product should be delivered at least 48 hours before installation and allowed to sit in the environment where it will be installed, adjusting to the humidity level in the room so it will not shift after installation. This means bamboo floors should be installed only in conditioned spaces—not before the heating/air conditioning is turned on.

Finishing and Styles

To job site finish or to spec prefinish—to wax or not—the great debate between finishing techniques and materials rages on.

Finish for Dye-Stained or Natural Floors

Tung oil and wax are nearly forgotten but are beautiful ways to protect new or resurfaced floors. The surface can be renewed indefinitely by waxing as required. Two coats of name-brand polyurethane is a great way to protect floors too, but eventually it will wear and need to be recoated. This requires resanding since cured urethanes are so hard that a new coat does not adhere well to the old one. Patching worn areas that had been protected by poly- urethane is rarely successful.

Wax Maintenance

Waxing the surface remains a time‐honored finishing option. Many people think main- taining the finish requires that they continually be on their knees with a polishing rag. Actually, a waxed floor might need rewaxing only once a year—and it can be done with a small buffing machine that homeowners can buy or rent. New finishing innovations offer the consumer a waxed finish that eliminates rewaxing. It is really a choice between periodic maintenance or sanding and recoating your floors with polyurethane every five or six years. Penetrating oil and wax is the way it was done for years. Its soft look is incomparable.

Whitewash Flooring

The white-gray stain of whitewash is called a pigmented stain. It creates color by causing finely ground particles to adhere to the floor’s surface. Unlike a dye‐based stain that penetrates the wood, a pigmented stain floats mostly on the floor’s surface like paint. The particles and resins of the pigmented stain limit penetration by tung oil and hence make good adhe- sion difficult. Tung oil or polyurethane also would give whitewashed floors an amber tone. A clear, non yellowing varnish with an alcohol, toluene, or aliphatic-resin base is best; they are available through suppliers to professional floor finishers.

Prefinished Wood Floors

Modern prefinished floors have a durable penetrating sealer finish applied at the factory. It is a lovely finish that increases in beauty as one walks on it; if it is waxed, there are three major disadvantages.

1. The wax will be affected by water. The factory finish will not accept an additional protective coat of urethane. The installer must completely sand the floor, remove the factory finish, and start from scratch if the water-resistant properties of a urethane are required.
2. The prefinished floor does not allow the installer the opportunity to sand the entire surface after installation to ensure a perfectly even surface.
3. The prefinished tiles or planks do not provide a completely sealed top surface. Therefore, moisture from kitchen or bathroom spills can get down between and under the wood floor.

Unfinished Wood Floors

Another approach in a kitchen or bathroom is to install an unfinished floor. The urethane finish, which is impervious to stains and moisture, can then be installed after the unfinished wood has been sanded smooth. The multiple coats provide a sealed top surface for a kitchen or bathroom environment.

Once finished, the floors should be inspected from a standing position. Flooring is not furniture; a finish similar to the one on a grand piano should not be expected. However, small particles of debris in the finish, a wavy look or feel along the strips, deep swirls or sander marks, and splotchy areas are indications of inadequate finishing or cleaning. A quality finish may include some of these problems, but they should not appear over the entire floor.

This example demonstrates the design continuity of a single‐width hardwood plank floor. Design by Joseph Giorgi, Jr., CKD, codesigners Erin Paige Pitts and Dru Hinterleiter. Photo by Peter Leach

In this kitchen, the hardwood floor is reserved for the working center and is then connected with a tile surface at the end. Design by Chris Novak Berry, codesigner Emily Castle. Photo by Alise O’Brien Photography

A wood floor installed on the diagonal and finished with a natural top coating provides an attractive contrast to the dark wood cabinetry. Courtesy of Quality Custom Cabinetry Inc.

Wood Flooring Installation Methods

Wood flooring can be installed using various methods depending on factors like the type of wood, the subfloor material, and the specific requirements of the project. It is important to only use materials and installation methods that have proven testing data and are as sustainable and environmentally conscious as possible. Here are some common wood flooring installation methods:

Nail Down (or Staple Down)

• This is one of the most traditional methods of installing hardwood flooring.
• It involves attaching each individual board to the subfloor using nails or staples.
• Typically used for solid hardwood flooring and engineered wood with a thick wear layer.

Glue Down

• In this method, the wood flooring is glued directly to the subfloor using a high-quality adhesive.
• This method is commonly used for engineered wood floors, especially those with thinner wear layers.
• It provides a stable and quiet floor, and it’s suitable for a variety of subfloor materials.

Floating Floor

• This method involves laying the wood flooring over a thin foam or underlayment pad without being attached to the subfloor.
• The individual planks are locked together using tongue-and-groove or click-lock systems.
• Floating floors are suitable for engineered wood and some types of laminate flooring.

Glue-Assisted Floating

• Similar to a floating floor, but a small amount of adhesive is applied in the tongue-and-groove joints to enhance stability.
• This method provides added security in high-traffic areas.

Click-Lock Floating

• This is a variation of the floating floor method where the boards have interlocking joints that “click” together.
• It’s a relatively quick and DIY-friendly installation method used for engineered wood and laminate flooring.

Hybrid Installation

• Combines multiple installation methods in one project. For example, a glue-down installation may be used in certain areas, while a floating floor is used in others.

Additional Design Considerations with Hardwood Flooring Installation

1. Subfloor Preparation
   • Ensuring that the subfloor is clean, level, and structurally sound is a crucial step regardless of the installation method chosen.
2. Moisture Control
   • Proper moisture control measures, such as using moisture barriers and acclimating the wood to the environment, are important to prevent issues like warping or cupping.
3. Expansion Gaps and Transitions
   • Regardless of the installation method, it’s important to leave expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room and at transitions to other surfaces to allow for natural wood movement.
4. Finishing and Sealing
   • After the flooring is installed, it may be sanded and finished with stains, sealers, or protective coatings to enhance its durability and appearance.

It’s worth noting that the specific installation method chosen will depend on factors like the type of wood flooring, the condition of the subfloor, and the preferences of the installer or homeowner. Additionally, following manufacturer guidelines and industry best practices is crucial for a successful and long-lasting wood flooring installation.

Concrete, Terrazzo, and Poured Flooring

Concrete

Concrete is a versatile and widely used flooring material known for its durability, strength, and adaptability. It’s a popular choice for both kitchen and bathroom spaces due to its various benefits.

Concrete is a composite material made of three primary components: cement, aggregates (such as sand or gravel), and water. Sometimes, additional additives or admixtures are used to enhance specific properties like strength, workability, or curing time.

Types of Concrete Flooring

Plain or Unfinished Concrete

This is the most basic form of concrete flooring, where the surface is simply the exposed concrete slab. It is commonly found in basements, garages, and industrial spaces.

Stained Concrete

Acid or water-based stains are applied to the concrete surface to create a decorative, translucent color effect. This method can mimic the look of natural stone or add a unique design element.

Polished Concrete

The concrete surface is mechanically ground and polished to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. This process can enhance the aesthetics of the concrete and make it more resistant to stains and wear.

Stamped Concrete

Textures and patterns are pressed into the concrete surface while it is still wet to mimic the appearance of natural materials like stone, brick, or wood.

Epoxy Coatings

Epoxy is a type of resin that can be applied to concrete surfaces to create a durable, seamless, and attractive finish. It is often used in garages, industrial settings, and commercial spaces.

Advantages to Concrete Include

• Durability – Concrete is exceptionally durable and can withstand heavy loads, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
• Low Maintenance – Once properly sealed and finished, concrete is relatively easy to clean and maintain. It is resistant to stains, water, and abrasion.
• Design Flexibility – Concrete can be customized in terms of color, texture, and finish to achieve a wide range of aesthetic styles.
• Energy Efficiency – Concrete has excellent thermal mass properties, which can help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.
• Cost-Effective – In comparison to some other flooring materials, concrete can be a cost-effective option, especially when considering its long lifespan.

Considerations When Specifying Concrete

• Moisture and Sealing – Proper moisture control and sealing are crucial to prevent issues like cracking and water damage.
• Surface Preparation – Adequate preparation of the subfloor is essential for a successful concrete installation. This may include leveling, cleaning, and applying a primer or bonding agent.
• Curing Time – Concrete needs time to cure and reach its full strength. During this period, it should be protected from heavy traffic and extreme conditions.

Terrazzo

Terrazzo is a flooring material that consists of aggregates, or “chips”, of broken pieces of marble, granite, quartz, glass, or other similar materials, which are combined with a binder and poured on site. Once set, the poured area is polished and sealed to create the final product. Most binder agents used have a cementitious base, a polymer base, or a combination of both. Pigment can also be added to the mix to create different colors, and metal dividers can be used to separate terrazzo colors and create a unique pattern. The metal divider strips also prevent the surface from cracking with expansion and contraction.

While terrazzo applications can be traced back to ancient Egypt, the more common and modern uses of terrazzo stem from 15th century Venice, Italy, where broken pieces of marble would be mixed with cement and used as pavement throughout the city. While traditionally used as flooring, modern terrazzo applications include countertops and other solid surfaces, as well as pre-cast tiles or panels that can be used on stairs and walls.

Poured Flooring

Poured flooring, also known as seamless flooring or self-leveling flooring, is a type of flooring material that is mixed and applied as a liquid, allowing it to flow evenly across a surface. Once poured, it self-levels to create a smooth, seamless, and uniform finish. This type of flooring is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings, but it’s also gaining popularity in residential applications for its modern and minimalist aesthetic. Poured flooring can be made from various materials, including epoxy, polyurethane, cement, or resin, each offering different properties like durability, chemical resistance, and decorative options. Due to its seamless nature, poured flooring is easy to clean, hygienic, and provides a sleek, contemporary look to spaces.

Resilient Flooring

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a versatile and cost-effective type of resilient flooring that is made primarily from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and other synthetic materials. It comes in a variety of formats, including sheets, tiles, and planks, and can mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood, stone, or tile. Vinyl flooring is known for its durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings. It is available in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns, offering a versatile option for various design preferences. Additionally, some vinyl flooring options come with additional features like cushioning or sound insulation for added comfort and noise reduction.

Luxury Vinyl Tile and Plank

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) are high-quality, versatile flooring options that replicate the look of natural materials like wood, stone, or tile. They are made from multiple layers of synthetic materials, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is then processed to create a realistic texture and appearance.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

• LVT typically comes in square or rectangular tile-like shapes.
• It is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural stone or ceramic tile.
• LVT is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, allowing for a variety of design options.
• It is known for its durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance.
• LVT is often used in areas where moisture may be present, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

• LVP comes in plank-shaped pieces, resembling hardwood flooring.
• It is engineered to replicate the appearance and texture of real wood.
• Like LVT, LVP offers a diverse selection of styles, colors, and wood grain patterns.
• LVP is highly durable, resistant to moisture, and easy to clean, making it suitable for various applications, including living rooms, bedrooms, and commercial spaces.
• Some LVP products feature additional features like acoustic underlay for noise reduction and enhanced comfort.

Both LVT and LVP are known for their versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of interior design styles. They provide a cost-effective alternative to natural materials without sacrificing aesthetics or performance.

Linoleum

Linoleum is a performance bio-based material invented by Frederick Walton in 1855. Linoleum is made from linseed oil (flaxseed oil), resin, ground cork, and wood flour. It is often used for flooring, wallcoverings, and ceilings. It is a durable, economical, and sustainable solution for high-traffic areas. Linoleum can be embossed with patterns, painted with colors, or printed with a hardwood grain. Pigment can also be added into linoleum in the liquid stage. It comes in roll or tile format depending on the application.

Resilient Flooring Installation Methods

The installation methods for resilient flooring typically involve the following techniques:

Full Spread Adhesive

This method involves applying adhesive uniformly across the entire subfloor before laying down the resilient flooring. The flooring material is then firmly pressed onto the adhesive, creating a strong bond. This method is commonly used for vinyl sheet flooring.

Perimeter Adhered Installation

In this approach, adhesive is applied only around the edges and seams of the flooring material. The center of the flooring is left free from adhesive, allowing it to “float” to some extent. This method is often used for vinyl composition tile (VCT) installations.

Loose-Lay Installation

This method involves laying the resilient flooring material directly on top of the subfloor without using any adhesive. The edges of the flooring are typically secured with double-sided tape or adhesive strips. Loose-lay installation is popular for certain types of vinyl planks or tiles.

Click-and-Lock Installation

This method is specific to resilient flooring materials that are designed with interlocking edges, similar to laminate flooring. The pieces simply click together, creating a secure and stable installation without the need for adhesives.

Floating Installation

This technique is primarily used for certain types of vinyl or cork flooring. It involves installing the flooring material over a thin foam underlayment, allowing it to “float” over the subfloor. The pieces are typically connected using a click-and-lock mechanism.

Heat Welding

For sheet vinyl installations, seams are often created by welding the edges together using heat. This creates a watertight and durable bond between the sheets, making it especially suitable for areas where moisture resistance is crucial.

Heat Seaming

This technique is similar to heat welding but is used for roll-type resilient flooring materials like linoleum. It involves heating a seaming tape and pressing it between the edges of the flooring material to create a strong, seamless bond.

It’s important to note that the choice of installation method depends on various factors, including the type of resilient flooring being used, the condition of the subfloor, and the specific requirements of the installation environment. Professional installers typically have experience with different methods and can recommend the most appropriate approach for a given situation.

Tile Flooring

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic is a solid material that is composed of a mixture of inorganic materials combined with a bonding agent. The mixture of materials used to create ceramics can vary depending on the final result, but most include varieties of clay mixed with water. The process starts with combining powdered materials with liquid before pouring the mixture into a mold or hand molding it into a shape. The mold or shape is left to dry and then placed in a kiln to be fired at a high temperature. Once removed, the object can be left unglazed or glazed with a protective surface coating.

Generally, ceramic has low VOC and is free of formaldehyde and PVC. Ceramics have a high melting point and as a result are inherently heat-resistant and non-combustible. It has a considerably high durability, hardness, and strength, and is nonreactive with other chemicals.

Traditional objects made from ceramic include earthenware, stoneware, brick, and porcelain. These categories differentiate in the clay mixture used and the fired temperatures while processing, creating different final products. More advanced mixtures of ceramic are not always clay-based and may include metallic components in the mixture. Ceramic can be found in many products, including pottery and bakeware, tiles and mosaics, sinks and toilets, bricks and cement blocks, and industrial equipment like hand dryers, magnets, and electrical fittings.

Encaustic Ceramic Tile

Based on an ancient painting technique, in which hot wax is combined with colored pigments and then applied to a surface, encaustic ceramic tiles are produced by combining clay and multiple powdered colors to create a pattern. The compound is then fired to seal the pattern in the body of the tile, as opposed to applying the design to the ceramic surface after firing.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain is a type of ceramic. Similar to other ceramic types, such as earthenware and stoneware, porcelain is clay-based and fired in a kiln at high temperatures to create its final form. Porcelain is baked at a higher temperature than most ceramic types, resulting in a very dense, strong, and impervious material. In fact, according to the ANSI A137.1 specification, a ceramic cannot be considered a porcelain until it reaches a water absorption result of 0.5 percent or less. Porcelain can be left unglazed or finished with a glaze. Some porcelain objects, such as panels or tiles, can be printed on to create a topical design or finish.

Unlike earthenware ceramics—such as terracotta—porcelain is known for its white, fine-grained body composed of quartz, clay, and feldspar. Pigments can be added to the clay base to create a variety of colors. Porcelain can be used in a manner of ways, including for bathroom fixtures such as sinks and toilets, pottery and kitchenware, building elements such as decorative features or architectural panels, and is commonly seen in flooring and wall tiles.

Natural Stone Tile

Granite

Granite is an igneous, intrusive stone that is composed mostly of quartz and feldspar with small percentages of mica and other minerals. It comes in various shades of grays, whites, and occasionally light pinks and reds. The stone is durable, easy to maintain, and resistant to weathering, abrasion, heat, stains, and scratches. Granite can bear significant weight and weathering, accepts a polish, and can be cut into blocks, tiles, or slabs of a specific length, width, and thickness. Because of these characteristics, it is used for counters, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, stair treads, building veneer, and monuments.

When molten lava that is beneath the Earth’s surface crystallizes, it forms granite. This is a slow process, and the slower the formation of the stone, the larger the crystals form in the granite. This stone is most commonly found in continental ground, not oceanic ground. As seen with other stones, each bit of granite that is abstracted from the Earth has a unique color, pattern, and aesthetic.

Limestone

Limestone is a natural stone material formed over millions of years from sedimentation and pressure. Limestone tiles are characterized by their distinctive, earthy appearance, featuring a range of soft, muted colors like beige, gray, and cream, often with subtle veining or fossil imprints.

These tiles are known for their durability and longevity, making them suitable for high-traffic areas in homes or commercial spaces. They are also relatively easy to maintain, requiring regular cleaning and occasional resealing to maintain their appearance and integrity.

Limestone tiles exude a timeless and elegant aesthetic, making them a sought-after choice for a wide range of interior design styles, from rustic and traditional to contemporary and minimalist. Additionally, their natural texture provides a non-slip surface, which can be advantageous in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.

Marble

Marble is a natural metamorphic rock formed from limestone that has undergone intense heat and pressure over millions of years, resulting in its distinctive crystalline structure and striking veining patterns. Marble tiles are renowned for their opulent appearance, featuring a wide range of colors including classic white, elegant gray, and various hues of beige, green, and even black.

Known for its exceptional durability and resilience, marble is a long-lasting flooring option that can withstand heavy foot traffic and wear. It is also relatively easy to clean and maintain with regular care. However, it’s important to note that marble is susceptible to etching and staining from acidic substances, so proper sealing and maintenance are recommended.

Its polished surface reflects light, creating a sense of openness and sophistication in any space. Marble’s natural elegance makes it a popular choice for areas like entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens where a touch of luxury is desired. Its unique veining patterns and rich color variations make it a prized choice for those seeking a flooring material that adds an element of opulence and refinement to their living or working environment.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a natural stone surface known for its exceptional durability and stunning aesthetic appeal. It is formed from metamorphosed sandstone subjected to intense heat and pressure over millions of years. This process results in a dense, hard material with a high resistance to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings.

Quartzite tiles come in a wide range of colors and patterns, often showcasing beautiful veining and unique mineral deposits that add character to each piece. Common hues include whites, grays, browns, and even vibrant greens and blues, offering a versatile palette to suit various design preferences.

Due to its durability, quartzite tile is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It is also less prone to water absorption compared to some other natural stones, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor applications. However, like any natural stone, it should be properly sealed and maintained to ensure longevity and preserve its natural beauty.

Sandstone

Sandstone tile flooring is a natural stone surface known for its warm, earthy tones and distinctive grainy texture. Formed from compressed sand grains and minerals over millions of years, sandstone tiles exhibit a unique blend of natural colors, including shades of beige, tan, brown, red, and even occasional hints of green or blue. One of the key attributes of sandstone tile is its natural, rustic appearance, which can bring a touch of nature’s beauty to any space. The surface often features subtle variations in color and texture, adding character and depth to the flooring.

While sandstone is reasonably durable, it is generally softer and more porous than some other natural stones, such as granite or quartzite. This means it may require more maintenance, including regular sealing, to protect against staining and wear. However, its relatively softer nature can also make it easier to cut and shape during installation.

Sandstone tile is a versatile choice that can be used indoors and outdoors, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from kitchens and bathrooms to patios and garden pathways. Its natural resistance to heat makes it a popular option around fireplaces and outdoor grilling areas.

Slate

Slate is a natural stone surface known for its rugged, earthy appearance and exceptional durability. It is formed from fine-grained sedimentary rock composed of clay and volcanic ash, which undergoes metamorphism over millions of years. This process results in a dense, hard material with a distinctive layered texture and rich, natural colors. One of the defining features of slate tile is its unique texture, characterized by its layered, cleft surface that gives it a rough, rustic appearance. The color palette of slate ranges from deep blues, greens, and grays to warm reds, purples, and browns, providing a diverse selection to complement various design styles.

Slate is renowned for its durability and resistance to wear, making it a suitable choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial spaces. It is also relatively impervious to water, which makes it a favored material for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor applications like patios and pool surrounds.

While slate is a robust material, it may require occasional resealing to maintain its protective barrier against stains and moisture. Additionally, its natural cleft surface can make installation a bit more challenging compared to smoother stones, but it also adds to the unique character of the flooring.

Travertine

Travertine is formed from mineral deposits in hot springs and is typically found in regions with underground rivers and geothermal activity. The stone’s unique appearance is characterized by its pitted surface and natural color variations, ranging from soft ivory and beige tones to deeper browns and grays.

Travertine tiles are popular in both indoor and outdoor applications due to their versatility. They are commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, living spaces, and outdoor patios. The stone’s porous nature makes it susceptible to staining, so it is often sealed to protect against spills and moisture.

While travertine is a durable material, it may require regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and longevity. Proper care includes regular cleaning with pH-neutral cleaners and periodic resealing to maintain its protective barrier.

Encaustic Cement Tile

Based on an ancient painting technique, in which hot wax is combined with colored pigments and then applied to a surface, encaustic cement tiles consist of three layers of sand, cement, and marble dust, with a top layer measuring between ⅛-inch and ¼-inch in depth that is colored with natural pigments. The layers are hydraulically pressed to harden and then cured for several weeks.

Terracotta

Terracotta is a type of ceramic called earthenware, and its name is a translation from the Italian word for baked earth. It is a clay-based material that is baked in a kiln, or by heat from the sun, at a temperature lower than other ceramic types. Because of this the final result is not as strong or dense as other ceramic types and is more porous. Terracotta can be left unglazed or it can be finished with a glazed topcoat to add a water protectant layer.

Sedimentary clay—which contains organic and mineral impurities—is used to form earthenware clays. Terracotta gets its notorious red color from iron oxide deposits in the clay. Terracotta has been used in sculptural art, architecture, and pottery for centuries in civilizations all over the world. Its modern use can be seen in tiles and mosaics, building materials such as roof tiles or architectural decoration, pottery and vessels such as planters and bakeware, or in industrial sectors for use as sewer or drainpipes.

Glass Tile

Made from glass materials, these tiles are known for their sleek, modern appearance and the ability to create a striking visual impact in a variety of settings. They are typically manufactured by fusing layers of glass together and can be found in a range of shapes and sizes.

One of the key features of glass floor tiles is their translucency, which allows light to pass through them. This property can create a beautiful play of light and shadows, adding a dynamic and vibrant element to a space. Additionally, glass tiles are non-porous and resistant to moisture, making them suitable for areas prone to water exposure, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Glass floor tiles are also favored for their easy maintenance and durability. They are generally stain-resistant and easy to clean with standard household cleaners. However, it’s important to note that they can be more fragile than some other tile materials, so they may not be as suitable for high-traffic areas.

Common Terms in Relation to Glass Tile

Field Tile

Field tile refers to the primary area of tile that is covering a surface. It is the most prominent tile within the space.

Glazed

Glazed refers to a finishing process for tile that involves applying a coat of enamel or liquid glass. This facial finish is fused to the tile’s surface with very high temperatures and is non-porous. Glazed tiles can be either matte or glossy, and can be specified in endless colors, finishes, and textures.

Glazed Color Body

Glazed color body refers to a porcelain tile with color in the body or substrate of the tile that matches the dominant color of the topical glaze finish. When the color body matches the top finish, it helps to minimize the visibility of any chips, scratches, and other wear or abrasions, as the matching base color will show through and blend with the finish. The glaze finish may have other decorative designs or textures, be digitally printed, painted, or hand stenciled, and can come in different sheen levels, such as gloss or matte.

Rectified Edges

Rectified refers to a tile that has undergone an additional machining process to produce precise edges on all sides. This results in smaller, cleaner grout lines that give the tile a smooth look. Rectified tiles can be used on walls or floors to achieve a seamless appearance.

Shade Variation Index

The shade variation index is a rating given to determine tile variation between individual pieces in a grouping. In particular, variation levels are given for digitally printed tiles to help designers determine the properties of a batch of tiles. According to shade variation index, tiles are rated as follows:

• V0 very uniform – monochromatic: Each tile is uniform and monochromatic in color. Little to no variation exists between the tiles that are printed identically.
• V1 uniform – low – no change – monochromatic: Differences between each tile are minimal and the batch is monochromatic.
• V2 slight – moderate: The color tones are similar, but there are obvious texture and pattern differences between tiles.
• V3 moderate – high: The color tones or design may be similar, but they vary significantly throughout the batch.
• V4 substantial – random – large variety – extreme: Each tile has a different color tone and design than others within the batch.

Tile Finishing and Styles

Straight (or Grid) Pattern

• The most common and straightforward pattern.
• Tiles are aligned in a grid with the edges of each tile meeting at right angles.
• Creates a clean and modern look.

Brick (or Running Bond) Pattern

• Similar to how bricks are laid in a wall, with each row offset by half a tile’s width.
• Provides a traditional and rustic look.
• Works well with both square and rectangular tiles.

Diagonal Pattern

• Tiles are set at a 45-degree angle to the walls.
• Adds visual interest and can make a room appear larger.
• Works well with both square and rectangular tiles.

Herringbone Pattern

• Tiles are laid in a zigzag pattern, resembling the bones of a herring fish.
• Offers a classic and sophisticated look.
• Often used with rectangular tiles.

Basketweave Pattern

• Alternates between sets of two tiles laid horizontally and two tiles laid vertically.
• Creates a woven appearance.
• Offers a timeless and elegant aesthetic.

Checkerboard Pattern

• Alternates between two contrasting colors of tiles, creating a checkerboard effect.
• Offers a classic and playful design.
• Typically used with square tiles.

Windmill Pattern

• Four rectangular tiles are arranged in a pinwheel or windmill shape.
• Offers a unique and eye-catching design.
• Creates a dynamic and lively visual effect.

Versailles (or French) Pattern

• A combination of square and rectangular tiles in a random arrangement.
• Mimics the pattern found in historic European palaces.
• Provides a luxurious and intricate appearance.

Mosaic Pattern

• Small tiles (often less than 2 inches) are arranged in intricate designs or pictures.
• Offers a wide range of creative possibilities.
• Can be used to create detailed and decorative flooring.

Random Pattern

• Tiles of various sizes and shapes are combined in a seemingly random layout.
• Provides a natural and organic look.
• Offers a unique and customized appearance.

Each of these tile flooring patterns offers a different aesthetic and can greatly influence the overall look and feel of a space. When choosing a pattern, consider factors like the style of the room, the size and shape of the tiles, and your clients design preferences.

Installation Methods

There are three methods of installation that are used for floor tile installation, which are listed below.

Conventional Mortar Bed (Mud)

In this method, the tile is installed on a bed of mortar 43 to 2 inches thick. Two systems are popular in North America. In one, the tile is set on a mortar bed while it is still soft. In the other, tile is set on a cured mortar bed.

Mastic (Organic Adhesive)

In this method, tile is directly applied to the countertop, decking, or cement surface with troweled-on mastic. When this method is used, the finished floor will be raised only by the thickness of the tile. Manufacturers state that a mastic installation may use any of these base surfaces: existing tile, fiberglass, wood paneling, brick, masonry, concrete, plywood, or vinyl. The surface must be dry, flat, and free of dirt and grease.

The tile installation cannot camouflage any existing structural problems. If there is a bow in the floor before the tile is installed, it will be there after the tile is installed.

Thinset over Backerboard

A glass mesh concrete backer board may take the place of a conventional mortar bed. It is unaffected by moisture and has one of the lowest coefficients of expansion of all building panels. Additionally, the boards are only one-half the weight of conventional mortar installations. In non-wet areas, exterior grade plywood can be substituted for backer board.

Additional Design Considerations with Floor Tile Installation

Demo Existing Floor Coverings

In renovation jobs, removing the existing floor covering is recommended. Generally, this is necessary if vinyl tiles or cushioned vinyl floors are installed over a slab or wood foundation. In many parts of the country, tile is installed directly over old non cushioned sheet vinyl.

Door Height Modifications

Doors may require modification to accommodate a tile floor. With a mastic installation, the designer is concerned only with the thickness of the tile. When a conventional mortar installation is planned, the designer must allow clearance for a 3 to 11 inch thick 44 mortar bed, plus the thickness of the tile. A glass mesh concrete board installation will require a clearance dimension equal to the thickness of the board plus the tile. Allow enough time for the door modification. Interior hollow‐core or solid‐core doors are easy to cut down. Pocket doors must be the type that can be removed from the pocket.

Tile Under Cabinetry

When doing a mortar base tile installation in a kitchen renovation project, it is recommended that you tile the floor before the cabinets are installed to maintain the proper cabinet height and 4‐inch toe kick. You can also run into a problem with locking in your appliances. 

Flooring Height Changes

Make sure the distance from the finished tile floor to the underside of the kitchen countertop leaves enough room for a built-in dishwasher, and extend the flooring under the dishwasher.

Toilet Height Changes

Make sure a tile backerboard does not interfere with the toilet supply line escutcheon plate.

Accent Floor Patterns

When planning an accent pattern on floor, the details must be laid out during the planning phase to ensure proper fit and finish.

Bathroom that features an accent pattern on the floor and in the shower Design by Pietro A. Giorgi, Sr., CMKBD and Ellen Cheever, CMKBD, ASID, CAPS

Tile details: Detail how you want the tile to be finished around the windows in your elevation drawing.

Tile at windows with Sheetrock returns: Include details of finished windows in your elevations.

Surfacing materials: Support tile overhangs: The tile overhang must be supported so the surface does not flex, causing tile or grout to crack.

Tile Grout

Different types of grout are available, each designed for a particular kind of installation and/ or to be used with specific tile sizes and shapes. The Tile Council of North America has excellent technical information on its Web site (www.tcnatile.com).

Following is an abbreviated overview of the Tile Council’s information (materials for grouting, ceramic, and stone tiles—ANSI specifications).

Portland Cement

Portland cement is the base for most grouts and is modified to provide specific qualities, such as whiteness, mildew resistance, uniformity, hardness, flexibility, and water retentiveness.

Sand-Portland Cement Grout

Sand-Portland cement grout is used with ceramic mosaic tiles, quarry tiles, pressed floor tiles, porcelain tiles, some glass tiles, and stone tiles on floors and walls. Because of the sanded nature of this grout, it is important to check that the sand in the grout will not scratch the surface of the tile. Sanded grout is always used for joints wider than 81 inches.

Non-Sanded Cement Grout

Standard cement grout (sometimes referred to as non sanded or unsanded) is suitable for grouting walls and floors subject to ordinary use. Some glass tile manufacturers require unsanded grout to prevent scratching on the smooth glass surface. This product is meant for joints of 1/8 inch or less.

Non-Cement-Based Grout

Non-cement-based grout, such as epoxy, furans, and silicone rubber, offers properties not possible with cement grouts. However, special skills on the part of the tile setter are required. Additionally, these materials can be appreciatively greater in cost than cement-based grouts.

Polymer-modified grout Polymer-modified grout is available in both sanded and unsanded, and is a factory-prepared mixture of cement and other ingredients. Grouts in this category provide improved characteristics, such as increased color stability, stain resistance, bond strength, flexural strength, and lower water absorption to resist frost damage.

Other grouts are available that have specific characteristics required for commercial installation.

Tile to Flooring Transitions

Doors may require modification to accommodate a tile floor. With a mastic installation, the designer is concerned only with the thickness of the tile. When a conventional mortar installation is planned, the designer must allow clearance for a 3/4-inch (19 mm) to 1-1/4-inch (32 mm) thick mortar bed, plus the thickness of the tile. A glass mesh concrete board installation will require a clearance dimension equal to the thickness of the board plus the tile.

Allow enough time for the door modification. Interior hollow core or solid core doors are easy to cut down. Pocket doors must be the type that can be removed from the pocket. If the new tile floor will be higher than the finished flooring of an adjacent room, the tile selected must have trim pieces or a threshold must be planned. Thresholds are generally marble or wood. Solid surface material can also be used as a threshold.

Soft Floor Coverings

Soft floor coverings refer to materials used to cover and protect floors, providing comfort, warmth, and aesthetic appeal. These coverings are typically made from soft and flexible materials like carpets, rugs, and certain types of vinyl or linoleum. They create a comfortable walking surface, dampen sound, and offer insulation, making them popular choices for residential and commercial spaces.

Carpets are one of the most common types of soft floor coverings, consisting of fibers attached to a backing material. They come in various textures, colors, and patterns, allowing for customization to suit different interior design preferences. Rugs are similar but are typically smaller and can be easily moved or repositioned.

Soft floor coverings are known for their ability to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in a room, making them particularly popular in bedrooms, living rooms, and areas where comfort is a priority. Additionally, they can help reduce noise levels by absorbing sound, making them suitable for busy households or commercial spaces.

Overall, soft floor coverings play a crucial role in enhancing the comfort and aesthetics of the space.