Floor Finishes ~ these are usually applied to a structural base but
may form part of the floor structure as in the case of floor
boards. Most finishes are chosen to fulfil a particular function
such as:-
1. Appearance † chosen mainly for their aesthetic appeal or
effect but should however have reasonable wearing properties.
Examples are carpets; carpet tiles and wood blocks.
- High Resistance † chosen mainly for their wearing and impact
resistance properties and for high usage areas such as
kitchens. Examples are quarry tiles and granolithic pavings. - Hygiene † chosen to provide an impervious easy to clean
surface with reasonable aesthetic appeal. Examples are quarry
tiles and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheets and tiles.
Carpets and Carpet Tiles †
made from animal hair, mineral
fibres and man made fibres such
as nylon and acrylic. They are
also available in mixtures of
the above. A wide range of
patterns; sizes and colours are
available. Carpets and carpet
tiles can be laid loose, stuck
with a suitable adhesive or in
the case of carpets edge fixed
using special grip strips.
PVC Tiles † made from a
blended mix of thermoplastic
binders; fillers and pigments
in a wide variety of colours and
patterns to the recommenda-
tions of BS EN 649: Resilient
floor coverings. PVC tiles are
usually 305 ¾ (^305) ¾ 1„6 mm
thick and are stuck to a
suitable base with special
adhesives as recommended by
the manufacturer.
Domestic Floor Finishes