When it comes to types of flooring available in India, you might think of either marble or tiles. However, there are a number of options out there that you can choose from. Some of them are common, while others are lesser known. Each of these flooring alternatives have their own merits in terms of aesthetics, cost, durability, and maintenance.

So, let’s demystify the various types of flooring materials to help you find which option works best for your home and budget. And let’s start at the beginning!

What Is Flooring?

Flooring refers to the finished covering that’s installed above your structural floor. This helps provide your space with a uniform walking surface, where different types of flooring can offer different benefits.

For example, the type of flooring material you choose can have a different feeling underfoot. Some materials can be harder than others, while materials like stone can help keep your floors cooler in hot summers.

What Are the Different Types of Flooring Materials Available in India?

There are many interesting flooring options to choose from to help you find the best flooring material for your space. Take a look at each of them in detail:

#1: Marble

white-marble-flooring-for-bedroom
Marble provides an opulent look and can be a long-lasting flooring material for your home

Marble is available in a variety of colours, including pink, grey, and white, making it one of the more popular types of flooring for Indian homes. It’s highly porous and fairly easy to maintain, sometimes lasting more than 25 years.

However, low-quality stones may turn yellowish over the years, as marble is not stain-resistant and requires proper sealing. Due to its natural occurrence and limited availability compared to other types of flooring, marble may be priced steeply.

#2: Vitrified Tile

vitrified-floor-tiles-for-indian-homes
Vitrified tiles can simulate the look of natural materials for less of the cost

Vitrified tiles are one of the most popular types of flooring in India, as they are affordable and suitable for both interior and exterior use. Generally coated with an external glaze, these tiles have a low water-absorption rate and are durable.

They come in a large variety of designs, colours, prints, and textures that can simulate natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and even marble. Additionally, vitrified tiles are available in glossy, matte, and anti-skid finishes.

#3: Vinyl

cost-of-vinyl-parquet-flooring-in-india
Vinyl is an affordable option that’s quickly becoming a fan favourite as an alternative to wooden flooring

Vinyl flooring is one of the most durable types of flooring in India, as it offers stylish alternatives that are cost-effective, water-resistant, and stain-resistant. Available in versatile designs that simulate hardwood and stone finishes, vinyl can be a relatively inexpensive option to consider.

While vinyl can be one of the best flooring materials to choose for your home, it requires special care to guard against scratches. One drawback, however, is its susceptibility to discolouration when it comes into contact with rubber.

Also Read: What’s the Best Flooring to Use at Home? Ultimate Guide

#4: Hardwood

price-of-hardwood-floor-tiles-for-living-room
Hardwood flooring is available in various shade ranges like walnut and cherry to give your space a unique look

Hardwood is among the few different types of flooring that’s made from natural materials. A high-maintenance but durable option, hardwood flooring is available in strips, planks, and parquet patterns. You can also get it in different shades, like walnut and cherry, to complement your interior theme.

While hardwood flooring options can be relatively more expensive in comparison to other alternatives, it’s still a popular aesthetic choice. Do be aware, though, that wear and tear can sometimes cause noises, creaks, and squeaking in these types of floors.

#5: Granite

beige-granite-floor-tiles-for-bedroom
Granite is a classic flooring material that’s easy to maintain and stain-resistant

When it comes to finding the best flooring types for your home, granite can be an elegant option. Due to its high stain-resistance and durability, this is a type of flooring that’s fairly easy to maintain.

In fact, you only need to protect it from scratches. The stone keeps cool for most parts of the year, making it one of the best flooring options for homes in hotter parts of India.

#6: Bamboo

bamboo-flooring-ideas-for-interiors
Bamboo is suitable for moderately dry weather conditions and can mimic the look of hardwood floors

Bamboo is a naturally occurring material, and the types of floors made with it resemble hardwood floors. This is another flooring option that’s fairly easy to maintain, as it is water- and stain-resistant

However, scratches can be a concern with bamboo floors. Similarly, humid weather can cause the bamboo planks to swell, so this flooring type is best used in moderately dry climates.

#7: Concrete

concrete-flooring-options-for-living-room
Cost-effective and rugged, concrete flooring is a must-have if you’re keen on getting an industrial-style aesthetic for your home

Concrete is another one of the most common types of flooring in India. It is a man-made concoction of cement, rocks, granite chips, and other materials, making it strong and durable.

Concrete flooring is largely damage-resistant, except for slight chipping and scratching due to wear and tear. However, moisture can adversely affect these types of floors with cracks and craters.

#8: Laminate

laminate-floor-tiles-price-in-india
Laminate is resistant to staining but may need replacement in case of damage

If you’re looking for affordable flooring options in India that mimic the look of wood, laminate can be a great choice. Laminate flooring is steadily gaining popularity as it’s durable, sturdy, easy to install, and fairly resistant to stains and water damage. However, damage may require complete replacement, as it cannot be repolished or redone.

The diversity in the range of patterns and finishes makes this one of the best types of flooring materials for your interiors. While shopping for laminate flooring, make sure to check for slip-resistant options to keep your homes accident-free.

#9: Linoleum

types-of-kitchen-floor-tiles-using-linoleum
Best-suited for space at home with a low footfall, linoleum is the perfect option if you’d like to take a sustainable approach to design

Linoleum is a relatively eco-friendly option among the different types of flooring, as it’s produced from raw materials like linseed oil, cork, dust, and resin. Being a cost-effective and highly versatile (in terms of design) flooring option, it’s very popular in Indian homes.

However, its soft surface can be prone to dents and scratches from careless usage. It is therefore best to only use these types of flooring in low-traffic areas of the house.

Also Read: Which Flooring Is Best for the Kitchen? 10 Durable Kitchen Flooring Options to Consider

#10: Terrazzo

types-of-flooring-with-terrazzo-pattern
Terrazzo not only has multiple applications in the different rooms of a home, but can also lend a retro-style touch to the space

Among the different flooring types worth checking out, terrazzo is a strong contender. It consists of chips of granite and marble placed in concrete or similar materials to create a speckled look.

Commonly called mosaic flooring, these types of flooring are durable enough to stand the test of time. Though they have a retro look, these tiles have been reinvented and are now stain-resistant and easy to maintain.

#11: Red Oxide

red-oxide-flooring-for-bedroom
Red oxide flooring is popular in the southern parts of India and can give your home a Chettinad-style look

Red oxide flooring is much loved due to its timeless and elegant look. As red oxide is easy to maintain and cost-effective, it’s a popular option in warm and tropical climates.

In recent years, other shades of red oxide like green, blue, yellow, and black are gaining popularity. However, these types of flooring can be quite difficult to lay and may require skilled masons.

#12: Brick

Due to its cost-effectiveness, brick flooring is widely popular in different parts of India. Known for their extraordinary strength, fire-resistance, and extensive durability, bricks are also easy to clean. However, brick is also highly porous and can chip off easily without proper care and maintenance.

Brick is one of the types of flooring that can be laid in different patterns, including staggered, basket weave, and other arrangements. This is one of the best options if you’re looking for flooring ideas that maintain a moderate temperature and add a hint of rustic style to your home.

How Much Does Each Flooring Material Cost?

Now that you know what your options are, it helps to know how much each flooring type can cost you. Let’s take a look at some of the costs for each material:

MaterialEstimated Price
Range per Sq. Ft.*
Installation
Charges 
Notes
Marble ₹200 to ₹800 per sq. ft. ₹150 to ₹250 per sq. ft.The estimated price range
depends on the type of
marble you want.
Polish costs between
₹60 to ₹100 per sq. ft.
Vitrified Tile₹40 to ₹150 per sq. ft. ₹90 to ₹150 per sq. ft.₹20 to ₹40 per area ft.
for grouting
Vinyl₹70 to ₹150 per sq. ft.₹30 to ₹50 per sq. ft.
Hardwood₹400 to ₹1,500 per sq. ft. ₹200 to ₹500 per sq. ft.The estimated price range
depends on the type of
wood used. Sanding and
polishing costs between
₹80 to ₹250 per sq. ft.
Granite₹150 to ₹400 per sq. ft.₹120 to ₹200 sq. ft
Bamboo₹150 to ₹300 per sq. ft.₹80 to ₹100 per sq. ft
Concrete₹30 to ₹250 per sq. ft. ₹35 to ₹50 per sq. ftThe cost largely depends
on the thickness, finish,
and material composition
Laminate₹80 to ₹300 per sq. ft.₹40 to ₹50 per sq. ft.
Linoleum₹80 to ₹300 per sq. ft.₹70 to ₹100 per sq. ft.
Terrazzo₹150 to ₹300 per sq. ft.₹100 to ₹150 per sq. ft.
Red Oxide₹100 to ₹150 per sq. ft. ₹30 to ₹50 per sq. ft
Brick₹20 to ₹60 per sq. ft.₹60 to ₹100 per sq. ft₹30 to ₹60 per area ft.
for grouting

*Please note that the estimated price ranges above are exclusive of GST, which is levied at 18%. Additionally, labour charges can vary by 10% to 15% depending on the city.

What Are the Best Types of Flooring Options for Each Room?

  1. Marble for Living Rooms: Since this is the space that creates the first impression of your home, it helps to pick types of flooring that are aesthetically pleasing, like marble. If you can’t afford marble, you can opt for granite or vitrified tiles instead.
  2. Quartz for Kitchen Floors: Quartz is a great flooring option for kitchens because this non-porous material resists staining, keeping your kitchen clean. Similarly, quartz doesn’t chip or crack easily, ensuring durability in a high-traffic area. You can also consider linoleum or granite as other types of flooring options for the kitchen.
  3. Laminate for Bedroom Flooring: Laminates do not expand or contract with temperature changes, making them a functional option for Indian homes. Additionally, laminate is relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain. However, do note that laminate flooring has an HDF (High Density Fibreboard) base, which may get ruined upon continuous exposure to water.
  4. Tiles for Bathroom Floors: Opt for glazed ceramic tiles to prevent water damage and staining. If you’re looking for low-cost options, vinyl tiles are another alternative to consider. Be sure to look at non-slip tiling options such as homogeneous tiles if you have elderly family members at home.

How Does Each Material Differ in Terms of Durability and Maintenance?

TypeDurabilityEasy to Maintain
Marble High Yes
Vitrified High Yes
VinylHighNo
HardwoodMediumNo
Granite High Yes
Bamboo High Yes
Concrete High Yes
Laminate Medium Yes
Linoleum High No
Terrazzo High Yes
Brick High No
Red Oxide High Yes

What Are the Latest Flooring Designs?

  1. Patterned Wood: This refers to the laying pattern of your wooden floor tiles to help create visual interest. You can choose from mixed wood patterns, herringbone patterns, and chevron patterns to give your space a stylised revamp.
  2. Chequerboard Design: As the name suggests, this flooring style uses white and black tiles that resemble a chessboard. This type of flooring design is great if you’re going for a classic yet quirky look. You can also opt for different colours instead of black and white.
  3. Basket Weave Pattern: Similar to the weave of a basket, this flooring design adds heaps of visual texture and interest to the space. It creates the appearance of woven tiles due to the way the pattern is laid, making an interesting style statement that’s perfect for modern rustic-style homes.

Check out the Livspace modular journey:

How Can Livspace Help You?

  • We’ve given over 2,000 homes and homeowners their dream floors
  • We provide Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT), HDF laminated flooring, and Stone Polymer Composite flooring with high quality materials at attractive prices
  • Our flooring options come with a one-year warranty

Ready to put some of these flooring ideas to the test? Book an online consultation with Livspace today and get started.

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.


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