Ceramic tiles are some of the most common finishing types on floors. They are versatile, available in big ranges both in size and design and durable. They are also easily available and easy for most handymen (fundis) to install. However, recent events have caused the cost of tiles to increase drastically which begged the question, what else can be used instead-
1. Nil floor – This type of floor finish looks like a nil exposure concrete floor. This effect can be achieved two ways. Using the first method, the finished slab surface is vibrated and power floated to achieve the smoothest finish possible with no aggregate showing. This surface is then checked for cracks which are then sealed then polished to create the clean look.
The second way is what is typically done in Kenya where a thin layer of screed is introduced and an even thin layer of runny cement water mix applied to the top of it. When dry, it brings about a similar look.
Another option of achieving this look is using self levelling concrete. This is similar to the second method, just faster. It involved the creation of the concrete mix and pouring it on to the floor after which it automatically levels and creates the finish look.
For the same concrete look. One can also consider micro topping.
2. Oxides – This solution is similar in look to the first one but its for those who do not fancy the grey concrete look. Many colours are available in the market that one can opt to choose. It gives the durability of the concrete floor without the characteristic grey look. This option is still cheaper to install than tiles per sqm. Note that one needs to use fundis with experience for this venture.
3.Terrazzo finish – This older look is making it’s way back to modern homes. This is because of its tried and tested durability. Terrazzo involves the use aggregate of different colours in white or grey cement that may or may not be coloured to ensure the aggregate is visible. The rough exposed aggregate is then sanded down until a sufficient smoothness is achieved and then a terrazzo seal is applied. However, it’s highly labour intensive and requires professionals or fundis with adequate experience.
4. Natural stone – If this material is naturally available in your area and you do not need the clean-cut polished look, you can definitely have it for your floor. It’s durable and especially works on bathroom floors.
5. Vinyl carpet/Planks/Tiles – This echoes the PVC carpet of the olden times however, in the more modern times, there are more durable and thicker carpets. Note that this can come in a tiles, plank or sheet format. The planks are the most modern of these, as they echo the timber feel.
They are gaining popularity because they offer some comfort to the feet as they are not cold to the feel. Popularly known as mkeka wa mbao These can be sealed in such a way that they are waterproof at the joints and are scratch proof. The most important thing is to ensure that there is an adequate moisture barrier to ensure no moisture collects below the installed carpet. It is also important to create a skirting around the corner of the house to create a finished look.
6. Laminate flooring – Laminate flooring is almost similar to the one described above but these have a wood backing and therefore have a more realistic wood finish look to them. They usually come in the plank system and are thicker than the vinyl floors. They are also more expensive than vinyl floors.
7. Earth floor – Before concrete was widely used, earthen floors were a more common feature. The application method is similar to applying screed on a concrete floor, but in this case it’s done on a compacted substrate/infill, such as murram or aggregate. It’s a mixture of clay, water and fibre that is laid on the floor and allowed to dry. This is then sealed where cracks occur and polished to achieve the final glossy look.
8. Terracotta tiles (Basically brick tiles) – If you would still like to use tiles, consider the terracotta tiles which are made the same way bricks are. They are installed the same way tiles are but require polishing when done to ensure they are protected from water damage.
One can also consider epoxy flooring and floor paint if you need more affordable options. I hope this has been helpful. Build Wisely!
