Warning: include() [function.include]: URL file-access is disabled in the server configuration in E:\inetpub\vhosts\magtheweekly.com\httpdocs\15\home_zone.php on line 87

Warning: include(http://www.magtheweekly.com/skymidpage.php) [function.include]: failed to open stream: no suitable wrapper could be found in E:\inetpub\vhosts\magtheweekly.com\httpdocs\15\home_zone.php on line 87

Warning: include() [function.include]: Failed opening 'http://www.magtheweekly.com/skymidpage.php' for inclusion (include_path='.;./includes;./pear') in E:\inetpub\vhosts\magtheweekly.com\httpdocs\15\home_zone.php on line 87
The right kind of flooring adds to the richness of your room without you having to go through the trouble of buying those expensive antiques. Simply choosing appropriate flooring options can highlight the personality of your home. And since it is the first thing that gets noticed whenever someone enters your home, it’s imperative that you have the best you can. Let’s take a look at what’s on display these days.
Stoned!
Although primitive in its approach, stone is one of the most revolutionised forms of tiling that has been in use continuously over the years. Owing to its natural composition, stone is something that will never go out of fashion. With a wide variety to choose from, this one tops the list.
Granite- – This is the hardest and least porous stone, ensuring durability. It serves well in large commercial spaces and high traffic areas. Use it with its textured side up to keep from waltzing without any warning signs.
Marble – This one’s softer than granite and more porous and comes in a palette of astonishing colours. Although it needs a lot of maintenance, its richness deserves the pampering treatment. When laying out, you need to ensure that the joints are not visible.
Italian marble, though it looks elegant, this soft, brittle stone scratches easily. It’s suitable for formal areas and bathrooms. When laid in white cement, it bears a rich luminosity. It’s available in large slabs and beautiful colours.
Macrana – This fast depleting marble from Rajasthan has a white base and its grains are usually light and uniform. The good thing is that it gets better with use. Since it does not stain easily, it lasts long.
Slate and limestone – Lend a rugged look, when used on the walls. They look nice in large slabs and are good for drawing rooms and dining rooms.
The most positive element about any stone is that it’s easy to maintain. It can be easily cleaned and polished if it looks worn out after a while. On the down side, the hidden costs in stone, particularly marble, are numerous.
Pile the tiles...
Although they require a little maintenance, tiles are a very attractive way to decorate your home.
Vitrified tiles – While they appear neat and seamless when laid out, they gradually lose gloss and scratch easily. Their Italian counterparts, now available in the market have a matte finish and make good toilet floors.
Ceramic tiles – They look nice but chip easily. They are affordable and, therefore, more popular. Made in matte and glossy finishes, these are also available to you in the anti-skid quality.
Patterned cement tiles –
These come in beautiful vibrant colours and designs. Colonial style designs can be used in large spaces like verandas, corridors, courtyards and large formal areas. They are great for building moods, although they can get overpowering sometimes.
Terracotta tiles – These are made of burnt and moulded clay, baked in artifical or natural kilns. They can be glazed or unglazed and give a warm and earthy feel to the space. On the other hand, they are brittle and chip very easily. But since they are inexpensive, they can be replaced without too many cost implications. Terracotta tiles are cool, eco-friendly and work well in farmhouses or ambiences requiring an ethnic mood.
Hardwood
Although high-maintenance, it can be polished when it wears out to bring back the shine. Its durability compensates heavily for its high price. Wood is an obvious choice for cooler climates, but demands a relatively dust and moisture-free environment. Although the laminated look-alikes are aesthetically appealing, they soon pick up scratches and also require specialist installation.
Terrazzo
This material is the result of marble chips mixed in cement and is comparatively less expensive. If it appeals to you, the mixture can be poured on site to avoid the tile effect. Finally, like mosaic, it weathers well.
Metal and glass
They are the first choice of all contemporary designers. They can have a cutting edge quality only if applied artfully. Glass floors lit from below are tantalising and can give the entire room a feeling of luxury.n