Chapter-7

Flooring

Group Members: Tutor:

Abiral Chalise (077BCE006) Asst. Prof Subash Bastola
Anup Luitel (077BCE018) Department of Civil Engineering
Bhuwan Singh Karki (077BCE030) IOE, Pulchowk Campus
Bishal Baral (077BCE042)
Presentation outline

❑ 7.1 Flooring and its types

❑ 7.2 Special types of floor finishing

❑ 7.3 Floor and wall ties

7.1 Flooring and its
types
Ground floor
Flooring:
In order to sub-divide the portion between plinth level or basement level and roof
level, the solid constructions are carried out. These construction are known as the
floors and the exposed top surfaces of floors are termed as flooring.
 Requirements of good floor finish
1. Adequate strength and stability
2. Adequate fire resistance
3. Sound insulation
4. Damp resistance
5. Thermal insulation
6. Easy to clean
7. Economical

Purpose of Flooring
1. Provide level surface with sufficient strength.
2. Supporting the occupants of building.
3. Provide resistance to heat loss through floor.
4. To provide comfort, durability, safety and decoration.
5. Exclude passage of water and water vapour.
 Components of a floor
A floor is composed of two essential components.

1. A sub-floor that provides proper support to the floor covering and the
superimposed loads carried on it.
2. A floor covering which provides a smooth, clean, impervious and durable
surface.
 Solid Ground floors

Solid ground floors are a type of flooring construction that directly rests on the
ground or a compacted sub-base. These floors are commonly found in
residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The construction of a solid
ground floor typically involves several layers to provide stability, insulation, and
support.
The layers of Solid ground floors are as follows::

1.Subgrade
2.Damp proof membrane
3.Concrete slab
4.Screed layers
5.Final floor finish
Subgrade:
The subgrade serves as the natural
ground or a prepared sub-base on which
the solid ground floor is constructed. It
provides the foundational support for
the entire structure.

Damp Proof Membrane (DPM):

The DPM is a crucial layer laid over the
subgrade to prevent moisture from
rising into the floor structure. It acts
as a barrier, protecting the floor from
potential damage caused by ground
moisture.
Concrete Slab:
The concrete slab is the primary structural
element of the solid ground floor. Typically
made of reinforced concrete, its thickness is
determined by the intended use and the
load it needs to support. The concrete slab
provides strength and stability to the floor.

Screed Layer:
The screed layer is a thin mixture of sand
and cement or other leveling materials
applied over the concrete slab. It serves to
create a smooth and level surface for the
final floor finish, ensuring a proper
foundation for walking or placing furniture.
Final Floor Finish:
The final floor finish is the topmost layer of the solid ground
floor. This layer can be composed of various materials such
as tiles, hardwood, laminate, carpet, or other flooring
options. The choice of finish depends on aesthetic
preferences, functionality, and the intended use of the
space.
Suspended Ground Floors
A suspended ground floor is a type of flooring construction where the
floor structure is raised above the ground level, creating a space or void
beneath. This design is commonly used in buildings to accommodate
services such as plumbing and wiring.

The layers of suspended ground floors are

as follows::

1.Sub-structure(foundations)
2.Damp Proof Course(DPC)
3.Bearers
4.Joists
5.Floorboards or decking
 Substructure (Foundations):
The substructure includes the
foundations or footings that support the
entire building. These elements are
crucial for distributing the loads of the
structure evenly and ensuring stability.

Damp Proof Course (DPC):

The DPC is a vital layer of material, often a
waterproof membrane, installed above the
substructure. Its primary function is to
prevent rising damp, protecting the
suspended floor from moisture that might
otherwise compromise its integrity.
 Bearers:
Bearers are horizontal elements that rest on the substructure and run
perpendicular to the joists. They play a crucial role in distributing the
load of the floor and any applied loads to the foundation, ensuring even
weight distribution.

Joists:
Joists are parallel elements supported by the bearers, forming the primary
horizontal structure of the floor. They provide support for the floorboards or
decking above and help distribute loads evenly.
Floorboards or Decking:

These are the visible and walkable surfaces of the suspended ground floor.
Floorboards or decking materials, such as wood, particleboard, or engineered
flooring, are laid on top of the joists, providing the finished floor surface.
Some Past Questions

1. Describe about suspended ground floor with sketch. [2079 Jestha]

2. Describe about solid ground floor with sketch.[2078 Baishakh]

3. Show the section of solid ground floor of building.[2077 Poush]

4. Draw a section of solid ground floor with necessary details.[2071 Bhadra]

5. With the help of neat sketches, differentiate between solid and suspended
ground floor.[2069 Bhadra]
7.2 Special Types Of
Floor Finishings
(On the basis of material used for flooring)
Mud flooring:
⮚ Only used in low cost housing especially in rural areas.
⮚ 25 cm thick selected moist earth is spread and is rammed well to get a compacted
thickness of 15 cm.
⮚ To prevent cracks due to drying ,Small quantity of chopped straw is mixed in moist
earth.
⮚ Sometimes cow dung is mixed with moist earth and thin paint of cement-cow dung
(1:2 to 1:3 is also applied).

Fig : Mud Flooring

 Advantages of Mud Flooring
⮚Such flooring is cheap, hard, fairly impervious, easy to construct and easy to
maintain.
⮚It has good thermal insulation property due to which it remains cool in summer
and fairly warm in winter.
⮚Materials for mud flooring are easily available.

Disadvantages of Mud Flooring

⮚ It can easily absorb moisture from the environment.
⮚ It needs proper and frequent maintenance.
⮚ It is less water resistance.
Muram flooring:
⮚ It is a form of disintegrated rock with binding material.
⮚ 15 cm thick layer of muram is laid over prepared sub grade, over it 2.5cm thick layer of
powder muram is spread and water is sprinkled and then rammed well.
⮚ After that surface is saturated with a 6mm thin film of water.
⮚ After dry hard surface is formed, it is rubbed with thin paste of cow-dung and rammed
again for two days during morning hours.

Fig : Muram Flooring

 Advantages of Muram Flooring
⮚ Muram flooring are cheap and the method of construction is easy.
⮚ It has a long life if well-maintained.
⮚ Muram flooring gives comfort in all seasons.

Disadvantages of Muram flooring

⮚ Frequent maintenance is required.

⮚ This floor is less impermeable.
Brick flooring:
⮚Brick flooring is a type of flooring that uses brick tiles, which are made of baked
clay. It is commonly used in warehouse and factories.

Fig : Brick flooring

⮚ At first subgrade is compacted well , over this 10 to 15 cm thick lean cement
concrete (1:8:16)or lime concrete is laid.
⮚ Bricks are laid on edge (or flat) on 12mm thick bed of mortar.
⮚ All the joints of bricks are full with mortar and finished.
⮚ The work is then properly cured.
 Advantages of Brick Flooring
⮚ It offers a durable and sufficient hard floor surface.

⮚ It provides a non-slippery surface.

⮚ It is cheaper than terrazzo, mosaic, cement concrete and marble

flooring.

⮚ The maintenance process is easy.

Disadvantages of Brick flooring

⮚ The main disadvantage is that it is absorbent.

⮚ It is costly than mud and muram flooring.

Flag Stone Flooring:
⮚ Flag stone is any laminated sandstone available in uniform thickness in the
form of stone slabs.
⮚ Also called paving and laid on concrete base.

Fig : Flagstone Flooring

⮚ The sub soil is properly compacted , over which 10 to 15 cm thick lime concrete or
lean cement concrete is laid .This forms base course of the floor.
⮚ The flag stones are then laid over 20 to 25 mm thick layer of bed mortar.
 Advantages of Flag Stone Flooring
⮚Flagstone flooring is very economical for the place where the stone is easily
available.

⮚Maintenance is easy and cheap.

⮚It is hard, durable and wear-resistant.

Disadvantages of Flag Stone flooring

⮚ It is not a very fine and smooth type of floor.

⮚It is not very impervious as water can percolate through damaged portions.
Cement Concrete Flooring:
⮚ Cement concrete flooring is one of the most common types of flooring and
they are generally used both in residential as well as public buildings.

Fig : Cement Concrete Flooring

⮚ Floor consists two components:

• Base concrete

❖ Base course may be 7.5 to 10 cm thick either in plain cement concrete(1:3:6 to 1:5:10)
or lime sand(or 1 lime:1 surkhi:1 sand)and 60% coarse aggregate of 40 mm nominal
size.
• Topping or wearing surface
❖After hardened base concrete , surface is brushed and cleaned thoroughly and wetted
the previous night and topping is then laid in square or rectangular panels by use of
glass or plain asbestos strips or wooden battens set.

❖ The topping consists of 1:2:4 cement concrete and laid to desired thickness.
 Advantages of Cement Concrete Flooring
⮚It is durable and hence it is commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms, schools,
hospitals, drawing rooms etc.
⮚It is economical and also smooth and pleasing in appearance.
⮚It possesses good wearing properties and can be easily cleaned.

Disadvantages of Cement Concrete flooring

⮚It requires proper attention while laying as defects in carelessly made floor cannot
be rectified easily.
⮚If liquid does manage to make its way into the pores and cracks of a concrete floor,
it can sit there and lead to the growth of mold or mildew.
Terrazzo Flooring:
⮚ It is a composite material made up of cement and marble chips(3mm to 6mm size)
in the proportion 1:1.25 to 1.2.
⮚ Widely used in residential buildings, hospitals, offices, schools and other public
buildings.

Fig : Terrazzo Flooring

⮚ It is then mixed and poured in-situ onto a concrete base.
⮚ Concrete of grade 1:2:4 is then laid in alternate panels levelled and finished to
rough surface.
⮚ When the surface is hardened,the terrazzo mix(cement, marble chips &water)is
laid and finished to the level surface.
⮚ The chips are exposed by grinding . The surface is then cleaned and wax polish is
applied to get final shiny surface.
⮚ It can also be premade and available in slabs or tiles.
 Advantages of Terrazzo Flooring
⮚Better color consistency and performance.
⮚Excellent chemical resistance and the lowest maintenance cost of any hard surface
flooring.
⮚Very useful in commercial situations as it is very durable and easy to clean.

Disadvantages of Terrazzo Flooring

⮚The surface of the terrazzo floor can get very slippery, and hence is unsafe for
children and the elderly.
⮚The surface does not retain heat well during the winter months, making the floor
feeling a tad cold.
⮚The installation is to be made only by experienced professionals.
Mosaic Flooring:
⮚ It is made of small pieces of broken tiles of China glazed or of cement , or of
marble, arranged in different pattern and these pieces are cut to desired
shapes and sizes.

Fig : Mosaic Flooring

⮚ On a concrete base 5 to 8 cm thick lime surkhi motar is spread and level.

⮚ Then 3mm thick cementing material in the form of paste of two parts of cement,
one part of powdered marble and one part of pozzolana materials spread and left
to dry for about 4 hours.

⮚ Then small pieces of broken tiles or marble pieces of different colors are arranged in
definite patterns and hammered into cementing layer so that cementing material
comes up through the joints , and an even surface is obtained.

⮚ The surface is allowed to dry for 1 day, and is then rubbed with a pumice stone
fitted with a long wooden handle , to get smooth and polish surface.
 Advantages of Mosaic Flooring
⮚Mosaic flooring is available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns,
which can add a unique and artistic touch to any space.
⮚Mosaic flooring is made from materials such as ceramic, glass, or stone, which
are durable and long-lasting.
⮚Mosaic flooring is useful for a place where extra cleanliness is essential.

Disadvantages of Mosaic Flooring

⮚Mosaic flooring can be more expensive than other types of flooring, particularly
if custom designs or high-end materials are used.
⮚ Mosaic flooring requires a skilled professional for installation.
⮚Some types of mosaic tiles can be slippery when wet, which can be a safety
hazard in areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.
TILES FLOORING
• Constructed from square, hexagonal or other shapes, made of clay, cement or
terrazzo.
• Commonly used in residential buildings, hospitals, schools, as an alternative to
terrazzo flooring where floors are to laid quickly.

Construction methods
- Similar to flagstone flooring except of the more care is required.

Step-1: Surface Preparation

Surface should be well compacted and cured sufficiently to gain considerable
strength to offer support. No pockets of loose soil should be left.
Step-2: Preparation of Subgrade
Concrete subgrade should be free from any loose particle and foreign material.
The surface should be in SSD (Saturated Surface Dry) by means of water. Level
pads(dhurmus) for finished floor should be marked , and uniformly spread,
considering required slope ( in case of bathroom/terrace floor tiles)

Fig: Spacers
Step-3: Laying of tiles on the Surface

1.Mortar bedding of (30-40) mm is prepared with ratio of 1:8

(cement:sand) lean mixture. Avoid rich mix proportions.
2.Cement slurry should be spread on the surface at 3 kg/sq.m
approximately.
3.Using reference lines, tiles are placed in line, level is checked and right
angle is maintained throughout.
4.Use dot points to check the tiling accuracy
5.Tiles near wall are supposed to be placed 12 mm away from wall for
skirting.
6.After laying tile, it should be levelled by light tamping with wooden mallet.
7.Spacers should be used to maintain the alignment of tiles.
8.Spacers are provided for removal of air below tiles or extra cement.
9.Surface is now kept for drying.
Step-4: Post Tiling Work
When the floor dries, floor should be cleaned thoroughly. After curing for three days
(avoid unnecessary foot movements), cover the tile flooring with bubble sheet/POP
Sheet to avoid any scratched. As we approach possession of unit grout of shade
matching to the tile or white cement is filled the tile joints.
Washing and cleaning of finished floor after completely drying.

Advantages of Tile flooring

• Durability
• Water resistance
• Easy maintenance
• Variety and aesthetic beauty
• Allergy friendly: less prone to dirt-mites, pet danger or pollens etc.
• Resistance to fire and fading
• Cost-effective in the long run: Due to durability and easy maintainance
Disadvantages

1.Coldness: Tile floors can feel cold, especially in cooler climates. They do not
retain heat well, which can make them uncomfortable for walking barefoot,
particularly in the winter.
2.Hardness: Tile is a hard surface, and this can be tough on the joints and back,
especially if you stand or walk on it for extended periods.
3.Susceptibility to Cracks: While durable, tiles can crack or chip, especially if a
heavy object is dropped on them. The grout lines are also prone to cracking or
staining over time, and these issues may require repair.
4.Grout Maintenance
5.Echo and Noise: Often noticeable in bathroom tiles.
6.Slippery surface
MARBLE FLOORING
• Superior type of flooring used in bathroom and kitchen of residential buildings where
cleanliness is an essential requirement.

CONSTRUCTION METHODS

STEP 1 – MEASURE TWICE

Measure the dimensions of the area you wish to tile, and then figure the square feet of
the area. Order an additional 5% to 10% of the tile to allow for cutting and waste.

STEP 2 – CLEAN SURFACE THOROUGHLY & PREP

Whether applying marble tiles to floors or walls, it is imperative that you start with a
clean, dry surface. For flooring, when installing on a concrete slab, clean the area
thoroughly with a wet sponge to remove any stubborn dirt or grime. For installation
over wood sub-floors, make sure area is free from dirt and grime.
INSTALL

STEP 1 – MEASURE AND FIND CENTER

You want the marble tiles that you install to radiate outwards from the center of the
room, rather than starting abruptly from one of the walls. In order to achieve this
effect you need to draw a reference line on the surface of the underlayment. Find
the center of two opposing walls and use a line chalk to draw a path in between
them. Then measure to the center of that line, and use a T square to make an
intersecting chalk path to the other two opposite walls.
STEP 2 – PREVIEW TILES IN PLACE AND SET PERMANENTLY
After determining the center of the room with the reference lines, you can begin to
experiment with a layout design.
Starting at the center of the room and working your way outward, lay down one
row of tile along the reference line. Blend and adjust the tile placement until you
achieve an optimal look.
Once you have decided on the tile layout, mix the adhesive,
also called mortar or thin-set, that is recommended for your
tile. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for preparing the
adhesive.
Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set to a small area on the
floor for installation. Use the notched edge of the trowel to
create grooves in the thin-set. Creating grooves will increase
the strength of the adhesive. Fig: notched trowel
To continue the installation process spread the thin-set on one
tile and place it where desired. Repeat this processes, working
with one tile at a time, until you reach the wall.
To keep the placement straight, use the reference lines as a
guide. Also, use tile spacers to keep the layout consistent, as
well as create uniform grout lines.
Once you reach the wall, take note of any odd angles or gaps
that require custom cut pieces.
Continue the tile installation by returning to the center point
and laying out the second row of tile adjacent to the first.
STEP 3 – MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE
In most marble flooring installations you will need
custom cut pieces in order to stretch the floor out
to meet the walls. You will also need to fit tiles
around architectural features in the room, as well
as permanent appliances and equipment.
The way to do this is with the use of a wet saw.
Carefully measure and make a straight line with a
Fig: wet saw
pencil on marble tiles prior to cutting.
If a wet saw is unable to make a specific cut, use a
4-inch grinder to cut curves, cutouts, or hard to
reach angles. Wipe any moisture from the tiles,
and install.

STEP 4 – WAIT 24 HOURS BEFORE PROCEEDING

TO STEP 5
Fig: grout
STEP 5 – MIX & APPLY GROUT
Mix grout according to manufacturer’s directions. Never use sanded grout for marble tile
surfaces as sanded gravel can leave scratches and swirls. Mix slowly until you reach a
creamy consistency. Apply the grout to the grout join only. Avoid smeary grout over the
enter surface of the tile. Allow to dry the recommended period (often not too long)
before wiping grout off the surface. Do not wait too long – if the grout dries too much, it
will make cleanup much more difficult.
Fill a bucket with warm clean water and dampen a sponge to clean the excess grout away
from the grout lines. Do not gouge or wash out the grout. Clean the entire surface with
water, repeating as necessary, to remove all grout from the tops of the tiles.

STEP 6 – WAIT 24 HOURS TO APPLY SEALER

After you’ve allowed your grout to dry for 24 hours, make sure the surface is clean, and
free of dirt. Apply a tile sealer, made specifically for marble, according to manufacturer’s
instructions. Apply as many coats as it takes until the marble tile and the grout stops
absorbing the sealer.
ADVANTAGES

• Durability
• Water resistance
• Easy maintenance and cleaning process
• Cool temperature
• Hypoallergenic
• Variety and aesthetic beauty
• Resistance to fire and fading
• Cost-effective in the long run: Due to durability and easy maintenance
DISADVANTAGES

• Susceptible to Cracks
• Risk of acid: Toilet cleaners contain acid
content thus not used in bathrooms.
• Prone to cracking
• Coldness
• Hardness
• Installation complexity than tile flooring
Fig: Granite Flooring
GRANITE FLOORING

• Granite is incredibly hard, one of the hardest natural stones, meaning that it
will stand up excellently to things like pet claws or heavy foot traffic without so
much as a scratch.
• When properly sealed, granite is very resistant to moisture and can be used
with little worry in kitchens or bathrooms. It is also resistant to stains, like those
from acidic foods, which is what makes it so ideal as a material for countertops.
• Granite’s natural beauty is one of the main reasons that people choose it as a
flooring material.
• Granite is very low maintenance. Simple sweeping and occasional mopping
should be sufficient to keep your floors looking gorgeous.
• Granite flooring is well-suited for radiant, in-floor heating.
CONSTRUCTION METHODS

•Clean and dry the sub-floor dry before installing.

•Lay floor tiles and use plastic spacer to keep the granite tiles properly aligned. Trim the tiles
using a wet saw, so as to fit.
•Now mix the thin-set as per the instructions on the pack.
•Place the backer-board and screw it down. This makes the surface smooth and which
protect granite from damages.
•Hold the trowel at 45 degree angle to form consistent ridges.
•Use a slight twisting motion to press the granite tile into the mortar, by tapping it down with
a rubber mallet. This ensures force out air pockets for complete contact.
•Allow the mortar to dry for 24 hours.
•In small batches mix grout. The consistency of grout should be like toothpaste.
•Then work the grout into the tile joints with a grout float.
• Clean off any excess grout paste with the help float and using damp sponge.
•Now leave the grout for three days.
•Now apply a penetrating grout sealant.
TIMBER FLOORING

• Timber flooring refers to a type of flooring material made from solid wood
planks or engineered wood, providing a natural and warm aesthetic to indoor
spaces.
• They are not commonly used in residential buildings as they are costlier.
• In hilly region, where woods are locally, cheaply and readily available and
where temperature is low, timber flooring is preferred.
• One of the major problem in timber flooring is damp prevention which can be
done by DPC.
• Timber floors can be of 'suspended type' or 'solid type'.
Fig: Timber flooring
SUSPENDED TIMBER FLOORING
IS 3670:1989
ADVANTAGES

• Healthier Indoor Air Quality: Unlike carpets, timber flooring doesn't

trap allergens like dust and pet dander, contributing to better indoor
air quality.
• Thermal comfort
• Aesthetic Appeal: Timber flooring adds a timeless and natural
beauty to interior spaces, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room.
• Cooling and Ventilation
• Increased Value of the property
DISADVANTAGES

1.Cost: Timber flooring can be more expensive upfront compared to other

flooring options. The cost varies depending on the type of wood chosen.
2.Susceptibility to Moisture: Hardwood floors can be sensitive to moisture,
leading to expansion, contraction, and potential damage. Proper installation
and maintenance are crucial to mitigate these issues.
3.Scratches and Dents: While hardwood is durable, it is not completely
immune to scratches and dents, especially from heavy furniture or sharp
objects. Area rugs and furniture pads can help prevent damage.
4.Installation Complexity: Installation of timber flooring may require
professional expertise, and it can be a more time-consuming process
compared to some other flooring materials.
5.Limited Resistance to Pets and Spills: Timber floors can be less
forgiving when it comes to pet accidents or spills.
RUBBER FLOORING
• Rubber flooring is a versatile and durable option offering a range of benefits for both
residential and commercial applications.

ADVANTAGES
•Exceptional Durability: Rubber flooring is highly durable and can withstand heavy foot
traffic, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like gyms, hospitals, and schools.
•Unparalleled Comfort: Rubber flooring is soft and resilient, making it comfortable to
stand or walk on for long periods. This is particularly beneficial for areas where people
may be on their feet for extended periods of time, such as in a kitchen or workshop.
•The Best In Slip-Resistance: Rubber flooring has excellent slip-resistant properties,
making it a safe choice for areas with everyday spills and moisture, such as bathrooms or
pool decks.
•Amazing Sound Absorption: Rubber flooring has excellent sound absorption properties,
which can help to reduce noise levels in areas where sound is a concern, such as in gyms
or music rooms.
•Easy Maintenance: Rubber flooring is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular
sweeping or mopping to keep it looking its best.
Fig: Rubber flooring
DISADVANTAGES

•Cost: Rubber flooring installations can be more expensive than other types of
flooring, such as carpet or vinyl.

•Smell: Newly installed rubber flooring can have a strong odor, which can be
unpleasant for some people. However, this odor usually dissipates over time. Also,
good rubber flooring manufacturers air their products out or use chemical
treatments to eliminate odors before shipping.
Linoleum flooring
• Linoleum is a floor covering made from materials
such as solidified linseed oil(cn;Lsf] t]n), pine
resin, ground cork dust, sawdust, and mineral
fillers such as calcium carbonate, most commonly
on a burlap or canvas backing.
• In simple terms, it is the covering obtained in
rolls and which is directly spread over the Fig: Linoleum flooring
concrete or wooden flooring.
• Available in 2-4 m wide and 2-6 mm thickness.
• Linoleum tiles are also available which can be laid
directly or rolls are laid on the floor using
adhesive material.
ADVANTAGES

• Environment friendly: Made of natural materials.

• Comfortable Underfoot: Due to cushion type bedding material.
• Variety in colors and aesthetics
• Durability and Resilient
• Easy to clean
• Anti-bacterial properties: Presence of natural anti-bacterial properties and anti-
static properties.
Note: Anti-static materials are generally referred to as any material which inhibits triboelectric charging. This
kind of charging is the buildup of an electric charge by the rubbing or contact with another material.
DISADVANTAGES

• Susceptible to Scratches: Made of soft materials.

• Initial Odor: Some people may find some initial odor after installing.
• Not waterproof: Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to damage, so it's not
recommended for wet areas like bathrooms.
• Professional Installation Recommended
• Can Fade Over Time: Linoleum colors may fade over time, especially when
exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
ASPHALT FLOORING
• It is obtained in many types:
i. Asphalt mastic flooring
ii. Asphalt tile flooring
iii. Asphaltic terrazzo
iv. Acid proof mastic flooring
Asphalt mastic flooring
• It is the mixture of sand and asphalt in the ratio of 2:1, mixed hot then laid in
continuous sheets.
• It can also be laid cold using minerals or asbestos too.
• Laid over the direct concrete base course and spread using trowel.
• A thin layer of sand is spread over the mastic to improve durability, anti-slip
surface, thermal stability and increased adhesion.
• Joints laid on successive days are perfectly lapped

Asphalt tile flooring

• Prepared from asphalt, asbestos fibres , inert materials etc by pressing them.
• Directly cemented to the concrete base.
• Cheap, resilient, sound-proof, non-absorbant and moisture proof.
Asphaltic terrazzo
• Prepared similar to mastic with only difference that marbles are used in
place of sand.
• Laid in hot condition.

Acid proof mastic flooring

• Prepared from acid proof asphalt and inert rock aggregates under high
pressure.
• Acid proof asphalt is laid over the asphalt blocks.
• Fine sand is laid over the liquid asphalt before it hardens.
ADVANTAGES
1.Cost-Effective: Asphalt flooring is often more affordable compared to other
types of flooring materials, making it a budget-friendly option for various
applications.
2.Durability: Asphalt is a durable material that can withstand heavy foot
traffic and resist wear and tear. Properly installed and maintained asphalt
flooring can have a long lifespan.
3.Easy Installation: Asphalt flooring is relatively easy to install.
4.Comfortable Underfoot: Asphalt has a natural softness that provides a
degree of comfort underfoot. It can be more forgiving than harder materials,
making it a suitable choice for spaces where people stand for extended
periods.
5.Insulating Properties: Asphalt has insulating properties that can help
regulate temperature and reduce energy costs. It can provide a certain level
of thermal insulation, making it suitable for use in various climates.
6.Variety of Colors and Patterns: Asphalt tiles come in a variety of colors
DISADVANTAGES

1.Susceptible to Moisture
2.Vulnerability to Stains: Asphalt flooring can be prone to staining,
especially when exposed to certain chemicals. Spills should be cleaned
promptly to avoid discoloration.
3.Not Eco-Friendly
4.Limited Resale Value
5.Installation Issues: While it can be DIY-friendly, proper installation is
crucial. Poor installation can result in uneven surfaces, visible seams, and
other aesthetic or structural issues.
6.Fading and Yellowing: Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause
asphalt flooring to fade or yellow. This is particularly noticeable in areas
with significant sunlight exposure.
Fig: Yellowing and color fading in asphalt flooring
Some Past Questions

1. Write down the construction method of any flooring type that is used in low cost
housing especially in rural areas of Nepal . What precaution will you take to make
such flooring durable?[2079 Jestha]

2. Explain in brief granites and tile floor finishes.[2078 Chaitra]

3. Explain the construction method of terrazzo flooring.[2078 Poush]

4. Explain the process of Mosaic flooring system.[2078 Baishakh]

5. Explain construction method of marble flooring.[2075 Bhadra]

6. Give a list of materials which are commonly used as floorings and give a brief
description of each.[2073 Bhadra]
Cork Flooring

Source:
Source: https://www.angi.com/ https://www.atomic-ranch.com/
Cork Flooring

• Cork flooring is a eco-friendly flooring made from the outer bark of

cork Oak trees.
• Bark are grind and mixed with an adhesive resin. This mixture is put
under extreme pressure to form sheets which are cut into tiles and
planks and baked in a kiln.
• It is available in the form of cork carpet and cork tiles and attached on
concrete base using flooring adhesive.
• It has good sound insulation(perfectly noiseless) and used in library,
halls, theaters, broadcasting stations etc.
• Cork is not ideal for pet owners.
Cork Flooring

Source: https://www.thespruce.com/
 Glass Flooring

Source:
https://www.palmersglass.com.au/ Source: https://www.glasxperts.com/
Glass Flooring

• Glass flooring is a special purpose flooring used when light form

upper floor is required in lower floors (especially basement) or for
viewing purpose.
• They are fixed in closely spaced frames so that glass and the frame
can sustain the load.
• It will elevate the look of floor to something glamorous and lavish.
• It is very costly and not commonly used.
 Glass Flooring

Source:
https://www.palmersglass.com.au/ Source: https://www.glasxperts.com/
Source: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/
 Glass Flooring

Pros: Cons:
• Aesthetically appealing • High cost
• Dustproof and Waterproof • Corrosion due to alkali solution
• Sustainable Material/Recyclable • Brittleness
• Excellent material for thermal insulation • Maintenance
• Reduces the dead load of a structure • Unsafe for Earthquake-prone areas
Plastic or PVC Flooring

Source: https://www.propertygurugroup.com/

Source: https://www.ericwrightcarpets.co.uk/ Source: https://www.houzz.in/

Plastic or PVC Flooring

• Plastic or PVC flooring refers to a type of synthetic flooring material

made from plastic material called polyvinyl chloride fabricated in form
of tiles of different sizes and color shades.
• Adhesive is applied on base and back of PVC and gently pressed,
oozing out adhesive is then wiped off.
• PVC flooring offers affordability, water resistance, and durability.
• But it comes with environmental considerations.
 Plastic or PVC Flooring
• Pros: Cons:
• Highly affordable cost option • Environmental Concerns/Not
• Highly durable materials, wear Biodegradable
resistant • Can be damaged by sharp objects
• Low maintenance • The entire sheet must be replaced if it is
• Waterproof for spills damaged
• Versatile: Be it size, shape, pattern, • Fading due to direct sunlight
or print • Some can emit VOCs(volatile organic
• Easy to install compounds eg: Triethyl phosphate)
into the indoor air, especially when new
Construction practice and problems(Tile
Flooring)
Construction practice and problems(Tile
Flooring)
7.3 Floor and Wall Ties
7.3 Floor and Wall Ties

• Provides a tensile connection between floor and wall element which

when overloaded, fails in ductile manner.
• It is desirable that the failure be in the tie element and be a ductile failure.
• There are two general method of connection for a tensile connection
between walls and floors.
1. Reinforced elements are precast in wall at regular spacing, each bar is
bent out at right angles and tied to the floor slab.
2. Screw thread element attached to the wall element and floor slab.
• The strength of the tie depends on the thickness of the wall and strength
of mortar, no. and spacing of ties.
GERBER, J D; VAN ZIJL, G P A G. Alternative wall-to-slab connection systems in
reinforced concrete structures
Floor to wall load transfer in timber structure
• Joists are long thick pieces of metal, wood, or concrete to
support a floor or ceiling.
Sesmic Retrofitting Guidelines of Buildings in
Nepal - 2013
• 6.2 STRENGTHENING OF FLOOR/ROOF
• 6.2.1 GENERAL
• Load bearing masonry structures should be strengthened in such as a
way that the whole building performs as one unit in a box system. The
in-plane rigidity provided by floor and roof (diaphragm) is a major
factor in order to ensure box-system of the structure.
• i. RCC slabs
• Masonry walls shall be connected using reinforcement or anchors to
the roof and all floors with a connection capable of resisting a seismic
lateral force induced by the wall of 1500 N/m.
i. RCC slabs
• If the masonry walls are constructed with vertical reinforcement, the
vertical bars at corners and junctions of walls shall be taken into the
floor slab, roof slab or roof band.
• RCC slabs not connected with the masonry walls by continuation of
vertical reinforcement shall be anchored with the wall with suitable
connection as shown in figure.
ii. Timber floors/roofs
• Exterior walls should be anchored for out-of-plane forces at each
diaphragm level with steel anchors or straps that are developed into
the diaphragm.
• Wall shall be anchored at the roof and all floor levels at a spacing of
equal to or less than 6 foot (1.8 m) center to center.
7.9 VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT AT CORNERS AND THE JUNCTIONS OF WALLS
Repair and Retrofit Manual for Masonry Structures-2021

Problem : Inadequate floor connections or connections failure

Problem : Inadequate floor connections or connections failure
NBC 202:2015
• Clause 8: Vertical Reinforcement in Walls
The vertical steel at the corners and junctions of walls must be taken
into either the floor and roof slabs or the roof band.