KeralaArchitect.com

Electrical wiring for your home

2011-12-22T08:57:00.002+04:00

'Electrical wiring' for homes is the use of insulated conductors and associated devices to carry electricity to different parts of your house so as to operate devices that work on electricity.

Materials for wiring interior electrical systems in buildings vary depending on:

Intended use and amount of power demand on the circuit
Type of occupancy and size of the building
National and local regulations
Environment in which the wiring must operate.

Wiring systems in a single family home or apartment, are simple, with relatively low power requirements, infrequent changes to the building structure and layout, usually with dry, moderate temperature, and noncorrosive environmental conditions.

In order to install any electrical wire installation, the proper wire size for the application is needed. But how do you know what size wire to use? The installation of conductors will depend on a few factors like- the gauge of the wire, wire capacity, and what the wire will feed.

The larger the wire gauge, the larger the amperage that the wire can handle. Wire amperage is the safe amount of current that a wire can handle without getting hot or causing a fire. The following examples of devices in your home, the amperage that they are rated for, and the wire gauge, will help you determine the right size wire for the appropriate application.

There are several steps you can take now to minimize the energy used by the electric devices in your home:

Unplug It.

The simplest and most obvious way to eliminate power losses is to unplug products when not in use. Search the wall sockets in your house for hidden un-connected chargers and other devices that don't need to be plugged in. When you detach your cell phone or similar device from its charger, unplug the charger too.

Use a Power Strip.

Plug home electronics and office equipment into a single power strip with an on/off switch. This will allow you to turn off all power to the devices in one easy step. But remember to keep your power strip in an easy-to-reach location! Once the power strip is turned off, no power will be delivered to the outlets, thereby eliminating power wasted by power supplies.

Use a Power Meter.

Use a power meter to find your leading sources of energy consumption to help you to prioritize which products to unplug or to replace. Plug these devices in between a given appliance and the wall socket to see how much electricity it is using.

Is your Kerala Home Environment Friendly?

2011-11-13T04:12:00.005+04:00

Traditional Kerala homes were more environment friendly than our modern homes, as we used building materials (like laterite stones, wood, lime plaster etc.) that were available closer to the site and created a self-sustaining system with well water sources and house ponds, had kitchen waste pits that served as garden manure sources, planted medicinal and vegetable gardens etc. Today, we rely on commercially purchased high-energy building materials like concrete and steel and depend on public energy and water distribution system for our needs. This naturally creates a negative impact on the environment.

An Environment Friendly home is one that has a healthy internal environment without adding too much impact on the environment by utilizing renewable resources. This can be achieved by the following methods-

Using locally available natural building materials for construction.
Relying less on electrical lighting and heating by having more natural sunlight and ventilation by proper placement and provision of windows.
Installing rainwater harvesting systems to offset some of the water needs in the house.
Installing compost pits to generate cooking fuel and manure.
Having solar panels or micro wind turbines to generate electricity from renewable sources.
Installing solar water heaters to minimize electricity consumption.
Separating Biodegradable and Non-biodegradable waste to enable recycling and proper disposal.

Apart from decreasing the harmful impact on the environment, an Environment Friendly 'Green Home' reduces operational costs in the long run by saving electricity and water; and also by maintaining a healthier internal environment.

So, how do we determine if a house is truly- 'Green'? Eco-friendly houses are evaluated on several parameters before being given a green rating-

Site planning and eco-friendly building design.
Preservation and protection of top soil and landscape during construction.
Heating, air-conditioning, ventilation, lighting and electrical and water heating systems.
Optimization of building design and structure to reduce demand for conventional energy.
Integration of renewable energy sources to generate energy.
Water and waste management.
Selection of ecologically sustainable materials for construction.
Indoor environmental quality (indoor thermal and visual comfort and air quality).
Conservation of soil during construction and proper top soil for vegetative growth.
Renewal energy-based water heating system such as solar water heaters.

(Courtesy: Business Today)

Giving due consideration to these aspects while constructing your House in Kerala; or even providing them in your existing house; will improve the 'Green aspect' of your living environment!

Home Automation Systems in Kerala

2011-10-25T16:46:00.003+04:00

Home Automation in simple basic terms, mean anything that gives us a remote or automatic control of things around our home. As the world gets more and more technologically advanced, we find new technology coming in deeper and deeper into our personal lives at home. Home automation is becoming more and more popular around the world and is becoming a common practice in today’s world.

The process of home automation works by making everything in the house automatically controlled using technology to control and do the jobs that we would normally do manually. It is much easier to install home automation in a house while it is still being built, since you have the ability to put things inside the walls to save space. Though, people who have houses already built can still have home automation done in a less intrusive way through wireless systems.

Home automation takes care of a lot of different activities in the house. Some of these things are as simple as turning on the sprinklers at a certain time every day and detecting burglars in the middle of the night. Others are much more advanced like sensing the presence of the person in a room and adjusting light ambiance, the temperature in the room, the volume of the music, according to different factors like the day of the week and the time.

The systems that you can control include-

Lighting,

Appliances,

Heating and cooling,

Security and monitoring systems,

Entertainment (home audio and video),

Communications (telephones and intercoms, internet),

Lawn sprinklers,

Curtain movements,

Gate door motor,

Shade motor control,

Keyless entry etc.

The concept of home automation is to connect all of these systems and devices to a central controller so that they can be controlled from anywhere and react to one another. For example, as you arrive home, your home-automation system can automatically open the gate door, unlock the front door and disable the alarm, light the downstairs, and turn on the TV. Or if you power on the DVD player, it might automatically dim the lights, draw the shades, and direct all calls to voicemail.

This central controller can be accessed and controlled through interfaces like keypad, wired or wireless touch-screens (with/without video), universal remotes, mobile devices such as a cell phone or PDA, any PC, at home, in the office, or on the road.

The central controller has various peripheral devices connected to it so that it can receive and send signals to them for appropriate controls. These peripheral devices can be Lighting Controllers, Switches, Lighting Dimmers, Wireless security transmitters, Door contactors, PIR sensors, Infrared keyfobs, Fire/smoke detectors, Sprinklers, Sirens, audio controllers, speakers, temperature sensors, thermostats, cameras, televisions, CCTV, appliances etc.

If appropriately specified, installed, operated and maintained, advanced lighting control strategies can reduce energy costs from 15 to 55% in your home, either by keeping lights off when and where they are not needed or by lowering light levels to correspond to the task at hand. In addition, lighting controls can increase occupant satisfaction and productivity by allowing users to tailor lighting levels to their personal needs and by optimizing light levels for the work environment.

To make sure that your new house being built in Kerala can be adapted to Home Automation Systems, have it installed with structured cabling.

The telecommunications cabling in a modern home supports a large and growing number of applications, including voice telephony, data networking, personal computers, printers, Internet access, and other applications, entertainment equipment like TV, home theater, whole-house audio, and home automation equipment, lighting control and security systems. For ease and convenience it is necessary that the new home should have single cabling infrastructure with CAT 5 or CAT 6 cables.

Though sophisticated Wi-Fi equipments are there in the market, yet looking in to the promising future of IPTV etc. it becomes essential to go for high bandwidth solution. Entertainment applications, such as streaming video, typically use much more bandwidth than the voice and data applications. Therefore, a modern residence often requires more bandwidth than a typical office and needs to have structured cabling.

Benefits of Home Automation-

Convenience

We’ve all gotten used to controlling our TV from the couch; just wait until you are able to dim the lights as well. Imagine adjusting the temperature from your bed or controlling the volume of your whole-house audio system from any room. Or imagine the wall/ceiling heater in your bathroom coming on automatically on chilly mornings 5 minutes before your alarm clock goes off so that it is warm when you enter. Many of the Home Automation products also save energy.

Safety

Automatic Gate opening systems are getting common these days, but you’ll be surprised how much safer you’ll feel coming home to a lit home and even turning on more lights from your keyfob remote upon your arrival. With a couple of basic products you can have your whole house light up when there is motion detected at any corner of your house. Imagine your house sending you an email if there is motion where there shouldn’t be any. Or you can have your security system call you if there is an alarm, which might include your typical security alarm or even a low or high temperature or water in the laundry room or basement.

Fun

High-tech products for the home are fun to use and share with others. Whether viewing visitors at your front door on your TV or tuning your stereo by using voice recognition, you’ll find home automation surprisingly enjoyable.

Some Home Automation companies that service Kerala are the following-

Eloka Enterprises Kerala

Ist Floor B Wing, 30/120B, Pranavam Tower,

Pettah Junction,

Poonithura, Cochin 682038.

Landmark : Varkeys Super Market

Mobile : +91 - 99955 87415 / 95678 62880

E-Mail : Support@Eloka.Net

Eloka Trivandrum

Future Desinz,

TC 13 / 1136, Kannammoola,

Trivandrum 695011

Mobile : +91 - 98470 65252 / 98472 99664.

E-Mail : Support@Eloka.Net

Netsys Consultants

A51/ Mosk road

Frazer town

Bangalore, India

T. +91 80 4563787

F. +91 80 4563798

E. info-ind@netsysconsultants.com

Honeywell Automation India Ltd.

No. 2234, 23rd Cross,

Banashankari 2nd stage,

Bangalore - 560070

Tel: 91-80-66146565

Fax No. 91-80-66146566

Controls & Schematics India

Kochi, Kerala

Website:http://www.csindia.biz

Tel: 91-98470 66638

Preparing your Site for Construction

2011-10-16T18:01:00.001+04:00

Now that you have your designs ready, it is time to start actual construction. Site preparation is a process that includes the following steps-

1. Soil testing

2. Site-plan designs

3. Zoning restrictions

4. Environmental concerns

5. Utility placements

6. Clearing

7. Excavation

Each step will have to be carefully investigated and have to go through a process of approval, and finally be put into action. The final result will be the proper placement of utilities, water supply and sewage disposal and the construction of a suitable foundation.

Soil Testing

A soil test provides basic information on the composition of the soil and its ability to support a structure; as well as the absorption and drainage rate of the soil. It will help in determining the strength of foundation required. Knowing the absorption rate will give homeowners an idea on how well the soil will accommodate septic and water and in determining where a septic system and well can be placed.

Site-Plan Design

A “site-plan design” is a crucial step in site preparation. It is the step that indicates the anticipated placement of the building, septic tank, well location (or public water connections), and any other fixtures. The site-plan design will also portray current vegetation that will be removed, surrounding wetlands or protected areas, access roads for construction vehicles, anticipated location of any paved driveway or road, and curb-cut locations. All site-plan designs must adhere to local or town regulations and be brought before zoning-approval boards to be used in the permitting process. You may have to refer to the section on Site Setbacks in Kerala Building Rules to know how much area has to be left between the house and the boundary wall on all four sides.

Clearing and Excavation

The final steps in site preparation include clearing and excavation. Certain sites will require you to remove trees and stumps from the building site in order to make room for septic systems, wells and utilities. The process of clearing and excavation is very expensive. For this reason, it is suggested that you only clear the necessary areas. Too much clearing can be very expensive and affect erosion.

Have a center-line diagram prepared for the foundation and perform a 'kutti-adi' or Site 'Setting-out' using pegs and ropes to determine the area that is to be cleared for the house and the surrounding set-backs and landscaping.

If there is extensive clearing to be done, you may have to depend on heavy machinery or JCBs for this task. Proper planning will help in efficient utilization of time and resources in preparing your site.

'Kulam' transforms into 'Swimming Pool'

2011-09-30T08:02:00.002+04:00

A 'Kulam' or house pond used to be an integral part of Kerala Houses since time immemorial. This is where the daily rituals of bathing, washing and even 'Sadakam' for the musically inclined was performed. Apart from providing the source of water for these daily activities, the 'kulam' also provided adequate exercise to the men, women and children of the household, one factor that is grossly lacking in today's lifestyle.

Now, more and more home builders are opting to have a swimming pool constructed as part of their house. Swimming pools come in various sizes and budgets. Normally a residential swimming pool ranges from 4m x 8m, 5m x 10m, 6m x 12m to 7m 14m, depending on the budget and available plot size. The shape varies from rectangular to irregular. The cost of a swimming pool depends on location, design, size, materials used, permit fees, local labor costs, depth, water features, additional accessories such as diving boards, slides, pumps, filters, automated filtration, heating, electronic chlorinators, automated cleaning systems, wireless remote controls, design add-on options such as waterfalls, landscaping, decking and other such details.

Almost any pool shape can be designed to fit your property and your specifications.

There are three types of swimming pools commonly built, one is the standard skimmer design, second is the rimflow and the third is the infinity. Cost of each design varies from one another.

The swimming pool is going to be the water recreation area in your compound. A place where you will entertain friends and family. A place where children and grandchildren will meet and play.

You should first determine what kind/size of pool is appropriate for you and your family, in terms of shape, style, etc...It really depends on how you plan to use your pool. If exercise is the priority, then a rectangular pool that facilitates swimming laps is appropriate. If you desire a pool that reflects a backyard oasis that is the perfect setting for entertaining, relaxing and overall enjoyment then a Freeform designed pool is probably most suited.

A regular residential swimming pool in Kerala will not cost much to maintain. The level of involvement in maintaining your pool is up to you. You can either opt to do the maintenance yourself or engage the swimming pool contractor to do it. You can negotiate a maintenance schedule with your swimming pool contractor to keep your pool in peak condition throughout the year.

Unlike earlier House Ponds, the Swimming pool does not have a ground water circulating system. The water in the pool is pumped in and stays there until it is mechanically removed. With modern swimming pool filtration equipment now available, you can use the same water even up to 2 years as long as you follow the correct water treatment and filtration procedures. Although this may not seem as an ideal situation for us Keralites who have a strongly embedded 'fresh water' concept; swimming pool water filtration systems have been found to be efficient in maintaining clean and safe levels over an extended period of time.

M-Sand as a substitute for River Sand in Construction

2011-09-24T06:47:00.001+04:00

Procuring River Sand for Concrete is one of the major problems a House builder faces in Kerala. With severe scarcity and more restrictions imposed by the government on dredging of river-beds, we have to look at alternative materials like Quarry Dust or Manufactured Sand. While Quarry dust is a by-product of stone-crushing, Manufactured Sand is made specifically to be used in Construction Concrete.

Manufactured Sand or M-Sand, as it is more popularly known, is made by powdering hard granite rocks using heavy machinery. It's particles are cubical in shape and finely graded and hence provides greater durability and higher strength to concrete by overcoming deficiencies like segregation, bleeding, honey combing, voids and capillary.

As M-Sand is made specifically for construction, it has many qualities that are superior to River sand or Quarry dust. The particle shape of the aggregates is very important. Sand having cubical particles provide higher tensile and compressive strength to the concrete. While clay and slit is present in River sand which may affect the strength of concrete, M-Sand is free of these impurities. Also, consistency of quality can be achieved in Manufactured Sand, while River Sand has varying quality in different batches.

River sand has to be sieved to remove stones, slit and clay. Average wastage of sieving is about 35% in materials and extra labour cost is incurred. Whereas M-Sand is ready-to-use-sand with no wastage since it has no organic impurities.

Properties of Manufactured Sand-

Greater Durability
M-Sand has balanced physical and chemical properties that can withstand any aggressive environmental and climatic conditions as it has enhanced durability, greater strength and overall economy. Usage of M-Sand can overcome the defects occurring in concrete such as honey combing, segregation, voids, capillary etc.

High Strength
The superior shape, proper gradation of fines, smooth surface texture and consistency in production parameter of chemically stable sands provides greater durability and higher strength to concrete by overcoming deficiencies like segregation, bleeding, honey combing, voids and capillary.

Greater Workability
The crusher dust is flaky and angular in shape which is troublesome in working. There is no plasticity in the mortar which makes it even difficult for the mason to work, whereas the cubical shape with grounded edge and superior gradation gives good plasticity to mortar providing excellent workability.

Offsets Construction Defects
M-Sand has optimum initial and final setting time as well as excellent fineness which will help to overcome the deficiencies of concrete such as segregation, bleeding, honeycombing, voids and capillary.

Economy
Usage of M-Sand can drastically reduce the cost since like river sand, it does not contain impurities and wastage is NIL. In International Construction Scenario, no river sand is used at all, only sand is manufactured and used, which gives superior strength and its cubical shape ensures significant reduction in the cement used in the concrete

Eco-Friendly

M-Sand is the alternative to river sand. Dredging of river beds to get river sand will lead to environmental disaster like ground water depletion, water scarcity, threat to the safety of bridges, dams etc.

Beside with the Government contemplating ban on dredging of River beds to quarry river sand, as part of the growing concern for environment protection, M-Sand will be the only available option.

Information- Courtesy: POABS

Kerala Roof Design

2011-08-24T16:17:00.004+04:00

In Kerala, gabled roofs have always been the symbol of a family's stature in society. Even concrete houses with sloping roofs today proudly sport gables.

Ask kindergarten kids to draw a house and most of them are likely to come up with the picture of a triangle atop a simple square. No wonder, because this basic outline has come to symbolise home and its comforts.

The classic gable - or the triangular façade formed by extending the top end of a sloping roof - dates back to ancient Greece and is found in almost every style of architecture, from the colonial to the contemporary.
In ancient Kerala, the gabled roof was the symbol of a family's stature in society, a statement of style. Traditional families vied with one another to adorn their houses with highly ornate wooden gables carved by expert craftsmen. Each region in the erstwhile state of Travancore had its own style of gable.
Diversity in design
In South Travancore belt, the gable was designed as an extension from the top end of a sloping roof. The beak was provided with a carved triangular façade as in the Padmanabhapuram Palace and the numerous Amma Veedus dotting the heritage areas in the city. In the mid-Travancore region, the gable was curved in the shape of a boat. Further to the North, in what is now Ernakulam and Thrissur, it was a projection from the roof, angling upwards. The protruding end of the gable provides protection from rain.

Apart from the aesthetics, the gable on a roof performs a vital function. "If the roof is the face of the house, the gable is the nose. It helps the house breathe by expelling hot air rising from the bottom level and thereby keeps the interiors cool in summer," explains B. Arjunan, director of Arjun and Associates, a Thiruvananthapuram-based firm specialising in Vasthu architecture.
Precision work
In the traditional style, the construction of a gable was based on precise measurements. Proportionality is the key. For houses, the sides of the triangle have to be at an angle of 33 degrees with the base. This is to ensure that the gable does not disturb the overall dimensions and aesthetics of the roof and the building in general. An imperfect gable can spoil the appearance of a house, just as a deformed nose mars the beauty of a face.

Even concrete houses with sloping roofs today proudly sport gables. To ensure that the utility value is maintained, air holes are provided within the triangular face. Designing gables for a multi-level roof is both a challenge and an opportunity for an architect. Multi-tier gables and those facing different directions add to the elegance of a house. Again, proportionality is the key to the beauty of this design layout.

A gable can add about Rs.2000 to the construction cost of a roof. For multi- level gables, the cost can be as high as Rs.25,000. But for an increasingly culture-conscious society, the additional cost involved in adding a gable is more than made up for by the proud statement of tradition.
That is perhaps why the gable has emerged as the most distinguishing feature of Kerala architecture. Most new tourist resorts, houses and commercial buildings are built to flaunt this design aspect.

Builders have bypassed the problem of providing a gabled roof for a house with a flat terrace. This is made possible by fabricating a metal framework over the terrace to hold tiles or light roofing substitutes like tile-profile sheets. Apart from the enhanced aesthetics offered by the gabled roof, the flat terrace offers another tier of useable space. The steel truss used for fabrication is a better and more cost-effective option than wooden rafters

Kerala Building Rules- Rainwater Harvesting

2011-08-15T15:32:00.002+04:00

Chapter XVI-A RAINWATER HARVESTING

109A. Rooftop Rain Water Harvesting Arrangements.-

(1) Unless otherwise stipulated specifically in a town Planning Scheme, workable rooftop rainwater harvesting arrangements shall be provided as an integral part of all new building constructions for the following occupancies, namely:-
i) Group A1- Residential (with floor area of 100 sq.m or more and plot area of 200 sq.m or more)
ii) Group A2- Special Residential
iii) Group B- Educational;
iv) Group C- Medical/Hospital
v) Group D- Assembly
vi) Group E- Office/Business
vii) Group G1 and Group G2 Industrial (only for workshops, assembly plants, laboratories, dry cleaning plants, power plants, Gas plants refineries, diaries food processing units and any other occupancies notified by the Government from time to time) viii) Group1(1) Hazardous (Automobile wash stall, automobile Service Stations, Service Garages with repairing facilities and any other occupancies notified by the Government from time to time);
Provided that the floor area to be considered shall be the total floor area in all floors:
Provided further that, the rainwater harvesting arrangement is not mandatory for thatched
roofed buildings.

2) The components of workable rooftop rainwater harvesting arrangement as stipulated
in Sub-rule (1) above, shall include:
i) Roof catchment area
ii) Roof gutters
iii) Down pipe and first flush pipe arrangement
iv) Filter unit and
v) Storage tank with provision for drawing water and spillover

3) The minimum capacity of the storage rank as stipulated in Sub-rule (2) (v) of the
rooftop rainwater harvesting arrangement shall be at the rate given below:
Group A1- 25 litres/Sq.m
Group A2- 25litres/sq.m
Group B- 50 litres/Sq.m
Group C- 50 litres/Sq.m
Group D- 50 litres/Sqm
Group E- 50 litres/Sq.m
Group F- Nil
Group G1 and Group G2- 50 litres/Sq.m
Group H- 25 litres/Sq.m
Group I- Nil

4) The municipality shall enforce workable artificial ground water recharging arrangements as an integral part of all new building constructions through collection of roof top rainwater.

5) The component of workable artificial ground water recharging arrangements as stipulated in sub rule (4) above, shall include:
i) Roof catchment area
ii) Roof gutters
iii) Down pipe
iv) Filter unit
v) Recharge well/percolation pit

6) Wherever rooftop rainwater harvesting arrangements as stipulated in sub rules (1) to (3) above are provided, additional arrangements for carrying the spill over water from storage tank to recharge well or percolation pit need only be provided

7) The owner(s)/occupier(s) shall maintain the rooftop rainwater harvesting arrangements and artificial ground water recharge arrangements in healthy working condition

8) The Municipality may, in exceptional cases such as water logging or impermeable subsoil conditions to considerable depths, exempt construction from the mandatory groundwater recharging arrangements.

Designing a Children's Room

2011-07-18T05:14:00.033+04:00

Traditional Kerala House Architecture catered to the needs of infants and toddlers in many ways. The Kidappumuri or Bedroom had provision for an Aatuthottil close to the mother's bedside; special areas where children's toys were kept and certain arrangements in the Kulimuri or Bathrooms for bathing the child.

In Modern House Design, these arrangements are more elaborate, with specialized rooms for children. When you think of setting up a Children's Room, there are many things to be considered like- the gender of the child, the interests and aptitude and the evolution of the room as the child grows.

Boys and girls generally have different colour-orientations. In the west, girls are often associated with pinkish themes and boys with bluish themes. The idea is to make the room vibrant with colours, which creates an environment of fun and enthusiasm, rather than a monotonous formal colour. Specifying areas within the room for play, study etc will instill concepts of discipline within the child at an early age.

A Play area- Play areas for younger children may include an arts & crafts center. Most children love to draw and color, so set aside a comfortable space for working on crafts. You may also want to consider hanging a chalkboard which can be used for drawing or it can be a great teaching aid for you.

A Reading area- Most children love to read. Provide a quiet and comfortable space that will entice them to do this. If you have the space for a comfy chair, perfect. If not, an over-stuffed floor pillow or two should do the job. Also remember that good lighting is essential for this activity.

Space to entertain friends- This becomes more important as children get older. They'll want to spend time in their room with their friends. Depending on their age, a small entertainment center, that includes a radio or DVD Player may be appropriate.

A Display area- Children love pictures. So dedicate a wall (or use a corkboard) to display your child's favorite photographs and artwork. Pictures of family and friends will add to the comfort of the room.

In addition, pictures of the child as they grow are interesting and will add familiarity and warmth. Children are very proud of their artwork…display it with pride! A display area for school awards and memorabilia can also be set up so as to encourage the child's achievements.

Safety is one aspect that has to be given the utmost importance. Avoid sharp edges and loose surfaces. Do not leave substances that are volatile or poisonous in the room. Be careful with the positioning of electric sockets or other potential hazards.

One trend in Children's rooms is to have an animated movie theme or a favourite cartoon character theme. While this can be exciting and playful, the theme may have to be updated as years pass by. Give the child enough freedom in modifying the room, but be there to guide appropriately.

Never let the room get cluttered as this will lead to an undisciplined mentality. The child should be instructed to properly arrange and organize the room before going to bed. The Children's room is where you instill the basic qualities of discipline and organizing skills.

More links on Designing a Children's Room-

Landscaping Your Front Yard

2011-06-27T19:48:00.010+04:00

The picture of a beautiful house is incomplete without a properly landscaped frontyard. So, if you have a newly built home; or an existing residence, do take the time to design your frontyard in a way that suits your taste and complements the design of your house. You can plant appropriate garden plants, and use sculptures, figurines or water-bodies. Choose the landscape elements carefully depending on how much time and effort you intend to dedicate for maintaining the garden.

One simple way of landscaping your frontyard without much effort is to designate lawn areas and pavement areas. Use your Site Layout Plan to mark areas where you intend to plant grass and areas where you would like to pave using paving tiles. But, if you are interested in having a colourful and intricately designed frontyard, you could seek the assistance of an architect or landscape designer. Getting inspiration from Landscape ideas online is a good method; but you should make sure that your landscape suits the facade of your house and does not stand out as a mismatch.

You can have a beautiful frontyard garden even if the area is limited. Plant ornamental trees or palms and the likes; and if it suits you, even medicinal plants or fruit-bearing trees. In ancient 'Nalukettus', the 'Thulasi-thara' was a common frontyard or central courtyard feature; that is making a come back in many modern tradition-inspired homes.

Be well prepared before you execute the landscaping work. First of all, make a layout plan of the frontyard showing the green patches, paved areas and water-bodies. Rake the soil well to remove weeds or underlying plastic wastes that may be present in the soil. Also remove potential pest and insect colonies that may damage your garden in the future. Choose appropriate plants and other landscape elements like rock formations, garden lights and lay them according to your Landscaping pattern into lawns, cobbled pathways etc.

Having a paved pathway along the lawn can make walking in the garden a pleasant experience. The pathway can be paved using bricks, cobblestone or interlocking garden tiles. Setting up a waterbody with a cascade using a hidden silent pump adds to the beauty of the garden; if properly designed. Just be sure that you are not setting up a high-maintenance garden that needs constant attention, if you do not have the time or the means for it. The key is to balance your time and budget with your design- but remember! a beautiful frontyard garden is an asset to your home- as it enhances the quality of your surroundings.

More links on Landscaping Your Front Yard-

'Bamboo Floor-Tile' Factory Opened in Kerala

2011-06-21T19:13:00.015+04:00

"Kerala's Industries Minister Elamaram Karim inaugurated a ‘high-tech' bamboo floor tile factory of the Kerala State Bamboo Corporation at Nallalam, Kozhikode recently. The unit, set up at a cost of Rs.9 crore, would employ 80 people. The State's share is Rs.5 crore and the Centre gave Rs.7 crore, the Minister said. (Rs.3 crore will be used as working capital)."- The Hindu: Wed, Mar 02, 2011

So what exactly is Bamboo Flooring Tiles and how appropriate is it for Kerala Houses? Let's take a look-

Bamboo is an attractive alternative for flooring because of its physical similarities to hardwoods. Bamboo floor manufacturers and sellers promote its strength, durability as well as resistance to insects and moisture while having the added benefit of being eco friendly. Bamboo flooring is typically made by slicing bamboo poles into strips. These are destarched by boiling, glued into boards, and milled. Preservative treatment is applied during this process.

The hardness of bamboo flooring depends in large measure on the species of bamboo, and its age when harvested. Three years is generally considered to be the best minimum. Flooring made from inferior species or younger bamboo dents and wears more readily. Good bamboo flooring products range from slightly lower, to significantly harder, than common hardwood flooring.

Installing Bamboo Floor Tiles
The secret to installing bamboo flooring is in the preparation. Make sure that the floor is clean and level. After the surface has been properly prepared it is time to determine how much flooring you are going to need. Measure the room and add about 20% additional material to cover cuts and mistakes.

To achieve a professional look, stagger the planks so that no two end at the same spot. When it comes time to cut the boards to fit the size of the room make the cuts so that the rough edge is against the wall and will be covered by the skirting on the wall.

More links on Bamboo Floor-Tiles-

Carpentry in Kerala

2011-05-11T19:25:00.003+04:00

In modern Kerala homes, about 20% of the Construction Cost is spent on carpentry or wood work. They constitute the doors, windows and ventilators, kitchen cabinets, wall panelling, false ceiling, charupadi, wood flooring and furniture.

Along with the House Design, the Architect provides a Schedule of Joinery Details which lists the number of doors and windows and the quantity of wood needed for making them. If you intent to get the Joinery made by yourself instead of relying on readymade doors and windows, this schedule can be taken to the carpenter or timber merchant to purchase the required wood.

Standard Door and Window sizes-

The Lintel level for a house is usually at a clear height of 7ft (2.10m) from the floor. This is the standard height of the door including the frame. Windows and ventilators also have their upper edge at this level. The width of the door can range from 80cm for toilets and store room doors to about 90cm for interior doors and 1.20m for the main door. Main doors with more than 1.20m can be double shuttered.

The height of the window is usually 1.35m with a sill level of 75cm from the floor level. Kitchen windows in Kerala are given a sill level of 1.00m above the floor so as to have enough clearance for the kitchen counter. Extra care should be taken when angular windows and bay windows are being made for customized openings so as to avoid misfits!

Commonly used timber in Kerala-

1. Teak (തേക്ക് - Tectona grandis)

3. Jack (പ്ലാവ് - Artocarpus heterophyllus)

4. Irul (ഇരുള്‍ - Xylia xylocarpa)

4, Pyinkado (വരവ് ഇരുള്‍ - Xylia dolabriformis)

5. Mahogany (മഹാഗണി - Swietenia macrophylla)

6. Acacia (അകേഷ്യ - Acacia auriculiformis)

7. Ayani (ആഞ്ഞിലി - Artocarpus hirsutus)

8. Bijasal (വേങ്ങ - Pterocarpus marsupium)

Things to note when you purchase wood-

Buying a Tree-

1. Age of the tree- If you buy wood from a plantation, you can even get a 'birth certificate' of the tree, with the date of planting. Trees that are cut prematurely will not be as hard or as durable as adequately aged ones.

2. Check the cross-section of the tree to find if there are any 'white' areas that are soft spots to be avoided. Trees with more solid heart wood bulk ensures lesser wastage.

3. Try to get trees that have a regular girth from one end to the other with at least a girth of 35in, than ones that have too many 'bends', so as to reduce wastage while slicing in the timber mill.

Buying Processed Timber-

Buying wood from a timber mill is slightly more expensive than procuring a tree and getting it sliced. But it is preferred by the home-builder who has time constrains. Standard plank sizes for Door and Window Frames is a cross section of 4in x 3in. For Window shutters the cross section is usually- 3in x 1.5in, for Door shutters- 5in x 1.5in.

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Terrace Maintenance

2011-04-21T13:22:00.006+04:00

If not properly maintained, the terrace would be littered with dust and dried leaves during summer. As the rainy season begins, this may lead to water getting stagnant on the terrace due to clogged drainpipes; which may lead to weakness of concrete slabs. The terrace and drainpipes should be cleaned before monsoon begins; along with sunshades and balcony slabs.

The positioning of drainpipes is very important.They should be at a gradient lower than the level of the slab, to assist in easy removal of water. If water is not drained properly, it may affect the strength of the beams and columns. It is advisable to properly waterproof the open terrace, built-in water tank and sump. Various kinds of waterproofing materials are available in the market.

Leakage on walls, bathrooms or ceiling should be taken seriously and repaired without delay. Techniques such as Injection Grouting, Crystalline Grouting etc can be used. Cracks that appear should be properly analyzed and either repaired if they are structural; or filled up using sealants.

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Red Oxide Floor: 'Kaviyidal'

2011-04-01T17:47:00.012+04:00

During the 1970s, Red and Black Oxide Floors were all the rage in Kerala. Malayalis called it- 'Kaviyidal'. These days, Red oxide floors have made a return with many improvements.

They are still a favourite among Low-budget Home Builders, as they give a smooth shiny polished floor for a much lesser price compared to other alternatives.

Moreover, various patterns can be artistically created to give a marble or parquet look to the oxide floor. Pavaratty in Trichur is famous for its Red Oxide experts- especially to get the 'Pavaratty Finish'.

The Red/ Black Oxide powder is mixed with white cement and applied to the floor. Even with the best materials and finishes, the estimated cost is less than Rs.15 per sqft, making it a value-for-money choice!

Method of application

For Red Oxide flooring the flooring oxide and cement are mixed in the ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 by weight/volume. This mixture is made into a thick slurry with water and applied for cement flooring, wall and steps.
For mosaic flooring first of all, mix the Red oxide with white cement, chips and white powder in dry powder form. After mixing the above items well, and a little water and mix them thoroughly. Again add more water according to your requirement.
Coverage

100 to 150 Sq. feet per Kg for flooring top finishing with cement slurry and color oxide (color oxide and cement ratio 1:5). However varies with the thickness of the top finishing and the type and color of the cement used.
Points to note

Mix oxide flooring colours thoroughly with grey or white cement in 1:8 ratio by weight. Colour to Cement ratio may be varied to get deeper or lighter shade of a particular colour. Best results achieved when White Cement is used.
Prepare a consistent and slightly thick paste with water, taking care to mix well. Apply a thin coat of this coloured paste evenly on the floor. Soak continously for next 3-4 days under water column. After complete setting, polish for best results.
Avoid using colours other than Red, Yellow, Black and Chocolate for exteriors. Do not use acid for cleaning or polishing. Use your imagination to create colourful patterns in interiors.

More links on Red Oxide Floor: 'Kaviyidal'-

Terracotta Floor- 'Tharayodu'

2011-02-16T14:47:00.007+04:00

This is the culmination of our series of articles on suitable flooring systems for Kerala Homes. And this week, we take a look into our tried and tested Terracotta Floors- 'Tharayodu', as they are called in Malayalam.

Terracotta Tiles have been used in our state since ancient times. They were moulded in Kerala country-sides and baked in crude kilns and then laid down on residential floors of the nobles and the wealthy. Today, they are manufactured using high-tech machinery and baked in modern kilns that give them lasting hardness and luster.

When used unpolished, Terracotta Tiles may absorb moisture, could develop hairline cracks and also may get easily stained. But high grade polish prevents wearing and gives the floor long lasting durability. They can be given a matt or glossy finish as suited.

Many Home Owners prefer to lay Terracotta Tiles in their homes selectively- in the Living Room, Bedrooms, Internal Courtyard etc. This flooring system is used to complement other kinds of flooring systems like granite and wood to create interesting patterns.

Terracotta Floors are priced at a very affordable range of Rs.15 to Rs.50 per sqft. They provide for a healthy and green design concept. Apart from locally manufactured Terracotta Tiles, they are also imported from Mexico and Egypt; and also come in Pre-coated and Water-proof varieties, which can be used in wet areas too without the concern of high maintenance or mold formation.

More links on Terracotta Floor- 'Tharayodu'-

Glass Floor

2011-01-17T03:18:00.007+04:00

For those who prefer luxury, there is Glass Flooring. It can be used in specific aesthetic areas within the house. It can be further enhanced by providing an aquarium below the glass floor, installing spot lights and setting up interior landscaping. Specially processed laminated toughened glass is used for this kind of flooring.

Laminated glass has a layer of Poly Vinyl Butane between glass sheets, which prevents shattering of the glass. The more laminated the glass it, the more expensive it becomes. The usual thicknesses of Glass Flooring is 15mm and 19mm.

If you are planning to install Glass Flooring in your Kerala House, approach experts beforehand and discuss the floor plan with them. Unlike other flooring materials, glass floors are not readily available in the market and have to be pre-ordered as needed in the design. Processing centers are located in cities like Bangaluru and Noida.

Glass floors are available in many colors. Prices vary according to color and thickness. Special stickers can also be used to create colorful patterns.

Anti-skid stickers are also used over the glass surface to make the floor non-slippery. Thermo-fused glass is used to create a chiseled appearance.

Glass floors are installed over a steel grid. It can be done in two methods. The glass can be fixed to the steel grid using specialized bolts- which is an expensive process. The glass sheets can also be stuck to the grid using adhesive, which is comparatively cheaper.

Glass floors are easy to clean using water and scrub. If they are not leveled properly, glass floors may produce cracks. The cost of glass floors in Kerala ranges from Rs1200 to Rs2000 per sqft.

More links on Glass Floor-

Vinyl Flooring

2010-12-27T19:34:00.007+04:00

Vinyl flooring is manufactured in sheets made of the polymer- Poly Vinyl Chloride. They are printed with interesting patterns and can be laid on smooth finished floors.

They have print patterns that resemble wood or stone. Viny Flooring is available in various thicknesses. Although they are not popular is Residential houses, they have been used in low budget homes.

Thick Vinyl Flooring has a cushioning effect which is very comfortable for bare feet. They are also a waterproof material, but care should be taken to make sure that water does not seep underneath the sheets through the edges. The floor should be moisture free before laying.

It is advisable to provide pads for furniture legs to avoid scratches in the Vinyl sheets. Fibre coated Vinyl sheets are weather-proof and do not shrink or expand with changes in atmospheric conditions. Vinyl Flooring comes at Rs.30 to Rs.200 per sqft.

More links on Vinyl Flooring-

Granite- Favorite for Kitchen counters & Charupadi

2010-11-12T05:53:00.008+04:00

Granite is a natural stone available in various colours and patterns. In the Construction Market, Granite is available in polished form and is used mostly in the verandah and kitchen areas in Kerala Homes. The price normally ranges between Rs.65 and Rs,260 per sqft. Luxurious brands may even cost about Rs.275 to Rs.300 per sqft.

The price of black granite is around Rs.120 to Rs.140 per sqft. Sometimes a layer of chemical polishing is applied to avoid moisture absorption.

Flame finished granite can be used at places where you require a rough finish- like bathroom floors.

Granite is extensively used for charupadi and kitchen slabs these days.

Granite does not lose its color or lusture with time. You should be careful to assess the surface finish of the granite slab at the time of purchase.

Viewing the surface against bright light will reveal surface defects. Disadvantage of granite is that it easily forms surface scratches and the inability to rectify defects by polishing.

More links on Granite-

Marble- Natural stone for Kerala floors

2010-11-04T04:07:00.006+04:00

Although the popularity of vitrified tiles have diminished the usage of marble, they are still favourite among home-builders who prefer natural flooring materials. An advantage of marble is that scratches are not easily visible and that the floor can be re-polished to look as good as new over and over again.

The usual price is Rs.45 to Rs.120 per sqft. Labour charges including polishing would come around Rs 20 to Rs25 per sqft. 3 bags of cement will be required to lay 100sqft of marble floor, which is higher than that required for a tiled floor.

A variety of patterns of world re-knowned Italian marble is also available in Kerala. Marble from other countries is also available at different costs that range from Rs.250 to Rs.1500 per sqft. They are available in polished and unpolished varieties.

Composite marble is synthetically manufactured from crushed Italian marble and is priced at a range of Rs.250 to Rs.400 per sqft. Labour cost is around Rs.20 to Rs.30 per sqft. Jaisalmer marble from Rajasthan is priced from Rs.75 per sqft onwards.

The main reason for the decline of marble's popularity are the following- lack of varieties compared to tiles, more labour-intensive when it comes to cutting and laying the marble slabs and tiles, more time-consuming process, high polishing costs.

Most contractors prefer mirror-polishing rather than wax-polishing, although they are more expensive, as they make the floor smoother and shiny.

More links on Marble-

Wood Flooring Options in Kerala

2010-10-21T04:54:00.012+04:00

Solid Wood Flooring

Local and Imported Solid Wood Flooring is a highly durable material that can last for the lifetime of the house, if properly laid. It is an expensive flooring material with a price that ranges between Rs.150 to Rs.450 per sqft. including labour charges. Skilled workers are essential for laying wood floors.

Apart from imported varieties of wood, local varieties like Teak, Irul and Mahogany are also available in the market.

Many sellers provide a take-back guarantee for a period of 1 year. Although Chemical Coating can be applied for Water proofing, it is not advisable to leave stagnant water over the wooden flooring for longer periods.

Careful maintenance is required by cleaning frequently and avoiding waxing or polishing of the surface, so that the floor stays aesthetically supreme and functionally durable.

Laminated Wood Flooring

It is now a trend in Kerala Residential Architecture to have Interesting patterns in Laminated Wood Flooring, especially in Bedrooms. Long Laminated Wood Blocks are used for this type of construction.

Each of this blocks have a wood surface with a poly urethene coating, with a plywood base. They are available in the market in bundles of such blocks, which are clipped to each other using tongue and groove joints. The cost of laying the flooring is Rs.80 to Rs.250 per sqft., inclusive of labour charges.

Flooring contractors often give you a guarantee of 10 years, with a damage repair clause. Wood laminates are available in various patterns. Bamboo Laminated Floors are also available in the market.

They are not recommended in areas with heavy foot traffic, as they may wear off and fade. Adequate termite protective treatment is also required.

More links on Wood Flooring-

Aluminium Fabricators in Kerala

2010-10-19T15:33:00.000+04:00

JOFAB INDUSTRIES
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: JOJO THOMAS
jofabindustries,kathrukadavu , kaloor, Pin Code: 683517, Ph: 0484-2330559, Fax: -
Services: Aluminum framed insects screens opening,sliding or roll up for windows matching & wooden colour powder coating & professionals in Aluminium Fabrication
Email: jofabindustries@gmail.com
Website:-

Kevin Industries
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: BEENA
45/769 Peediackal Korrea Rd Pchlm-682012. Phone: 0484-2394425
Email:
Website:

KMS Aluminium Fabrications
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: SUNIL KUMAR
Ceeyem Shpng Cmplx Companyppady Jn Aluva-683106. Phone: 0484-2622358
Email:
Website:

Max-Win
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: Jaya Tourist Home North Paravur-683513. Phone: 04862-2447024

Email:
Website:

Mini Aluminium Fabricators
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: 8 1058 SNgr Kpdm-682002. Phone: 0484-2210457

Email:
Website:

Modern Aluminium Fabrication
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: ARUN
Kottankavu Rd Vnla-682032. Phone: 0484-2341988
Email:
Website:

Net Traders India
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: saji thomas
Vattamala estate,K.P Vallon road,Kadavanthra,Cochin, Pin Code: 20, Ph: 04843245716, 9495514397, 9895175538 ,04716458037, Fax: -
Services: Leading Mosquito Screen,aluminium fabricaton manufacturing ,distributing,sales and servicing compaly.
Email: info@nettradersindia.com
Website:www.nettradersindia.com

Royal Interiors
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: BOBBY JOSEPH
53/1309 P.K.Road Thevara-682013. Phone: 0484-2664399
Email:
Website:

Sherbrooke Aluminium Products
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: KOSHY K CHERIAN
Kadavil Court Arangath Cross Road Pullepady-682018. Phone: 0484-2367966
Email:
Website:

Sherin Aluminium Fabricators
Category: Aluminium Fabricators - Ernakulam
Contact: PRINCE
34/1198-A BKM Rd Edp-682024. Phone: 0484-2344979
Email:
Website:

AROMA FABRICATORS, EKM, KOCHI
mig-462,5th street,9th cross road,
panampilly nagar,kochi-36, kerala,
pin-682016, ph: 0484 4017979, 4028607,
fax:0484 2363930 email:aromablinds@yahoo.co.in,
mr.joseph kochiery(M.D):99470 05007

HORIZON GROUP, KOCHI, ERNAKULAM
hi tech fabricating company, abdulla complex,
karukappally junction, kaloor,
kochi-682017, ph: 0484 3209102,
contact mr.sinil: 98474 30800,
email: horizon fab@gmail.com

HTTP://WWW.AROMABLINDS.COM/
aroma associates, corporate zone,
2ancharage off foreshore road, palliyil lane,
kochi, kerala, pin-682016, ph: 0484 2364440, 2364414,
fax:0484 2363930 email:aromablinds@yahoo.co.in,
mr.joseph kochiery(M.D):99470 05007

HTTP://WWW.ASSETGROUP.CO.IN/
aluminium solutions, near mosque:(international stadium),
palarivattom, janatha bus stop, cochin-682 025,
email: gsunilasset@yahoo.co.in,
ph: 0484 3215501, 3215502, 3215503,
mr. g. sunil:9447048473

HTTP://WWW.CLASSICALUMINIUM.COM/
all types of aluminium works, door no. 569/A,
civil line road, thrikkakara cochin-021,
ph:91-484-2425764,2425357,
mrabdulkhadir:9846096150,
mail:classic aluminium@rediffmail.com

K. P. JOSEPH WORKS, ERNAKULAM, KOCHI
alumninium fabricators, kandakkadavu,
kochi-682008, ph: 0484 2247802,
contact mr. joseph, mob: 98950 24890

TECHNO FAB, ERNAKULAM, KOCHI
Techno Fab,Chalikavattom 0484 -322843

UNIVERSAL, ERNAKULAM, COCHIN
aluminium fabricators,kappalandimukku,
12/826,cochin-682002,Ph: 0484-6542426, 9447123531.
e-mail:universal4@hotmail.com

Ceramic Tiles- Kerala Flooring Options

2010-10-01T18:03:00.007+04:00

Last week we discussed 'Vitrified tiles' on our Blog. The difference between Vitrified Tiles and Ceramic Tiles is that while the former is fully consolidated, Ceramic Tiles are polished only on the top surface. They are available in various shapes, colours and patterns. Their prices also vary according to the quality, and are available for Rs.30 to Rs.100 per sqft.

Rough finished 'Rustic tiles' can be used to pave bathroom floors and cost about Rs.80 per sqft. Glossy and smooth Ceramic Tiles, Leather Finished Ceramic Tiles etc. are available at various price ranges.

Do make sure that the floor is properly levelled before laying Ceramic Tiles, because they have a tendency to break, if unevenly laid. They may also absorb water and fade. Low quality Ceramic tiles are also prone to break at the edges. The labour cost for laying Ceramic tiles is around Rs.8-10 per sqft.

Ceramic Tiles had ruled the Kerala market for a few decades before the advent of Vitrified Tiles. They are still used extensively for dadoing and flooring of bathrooms, kitchen counter walls and for facade tiling.

More links on Ceramic Tiles-

PortaCabin Suppliers in India

2010-09-14T04:45:00.000+04:00

Mini Fabrication has a successful track record of 12 years in the fabrication & pre-fab construction industry. At Mini Fabrication Excellence is a commitment. In its constant strive for excellence, Mini Fabrication has emerged as leader in the fabrication & pre-fab construction industry.

Mini Fab's wide ranges of pre-fab products are popular as on site accommodation at large-scale construction sites such as BARC, HPL, IBP, INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL, INTERNATIONAL AIR PORT, PORT TRUST, ONGC.

Mini Fab is a company that is built around a team of professional who are innovative in designing and execution, which creates a unique, durable range of pre-fab products. With their commitment towards excellence, Mini Fab produces precise custom built, cost effective products and on schedule deliveries.

Mini Fab has a prompt after sales service team and efficient national sales & services network.

Mini Fab offers excellent solutions for on-site accommodation, which guarantee customer satisfaction.
Basic frame made with hrc steel 4mm / 5mm. (t section)
Basic frame coated with epoxy paint.
Flooring is made out of angular frame & cover with 12 mm ply
Top cover with 16 SWG heavy aluminum checkered plate.
Complete body cover with strong poly extrusion.
Poly extrusion section available in 19 MM & 32 MM thickness.
The structure will be mounted on concrete legs.
All assembling made at site with in one to three day
Free delivery & free assembling at site.
All work & specification as per drawing.

MINI FABRICATION
152, Narayan Dhuru Street, 3rd Floor, Mumbai - 400003, Maharashtra, India.
Tel : 23438467 / 23425193 / 23452097 Fax : 022 - 23402486
E-mail : sales@portacabinindia.com

PORTACABIN INDIA
S - 30, Yashwant Palace,
Chanakyapuri , New Delhi - 110 021
Phone : (+91) 11-24103031, 26874189
Mobile :9873170891, 9873160891, 9873160892
Fax No. : 91- 11 - 41864243, 26880365
E-mail : info@portacabin-india.com
Website : www.portacabin-india.com

Flooring Options in Kerala

2010-09-12T10:52:00.011+04:00

In Traditional Kerala Architecture, floors have always been areas for experiments. From a traditionally unique practice of using cow dung to polish our floors, to creating special flooring mixtures with egg-whites and coconut paste our floors have evolved in the quest to create surfaces that are sturdy and smooth.

A few decades earlier, we had red-oxide floors and mosaic (terrazo) floors ruling the market for residential floors. Now, the trend has shifted to marble, granite, vitrified tiles, laminated tiles, toughened glass, wood panels etc so as to enhance the aesthetics and durability of our floors.

Numerous options are available when you choose the flooring material for your dream home and you should plan well when you approach this stage of your house construction. To know what materials are to be used for each portion of the house, you need to know the characteristics of different flooring materials- the price, durability, maintenance features, local availabilty, advantages and disadvantages.

This is an area that has a wide range in terms of cost of construction- about Rs.15 per sqft as in the case of clay (terracotta) tiles, to about Rs.2000 per sqft as in the case of glass floors.

Currently, the most favoured and fast-moving flooring materials are different kinds of floor tiles. Cost-effectiveness, durability, wide range of selection, ease in laying and maintaining etc are the characters that make floor tiles the top choice in flooring. They are of various types- with varying properties.

This week, on our blog, we start a 9-article series on suitable flooring materials for Kerala Homes-

1- Vitrified tiles

2- Ceramic Tiles

3- Wood Flooring

4- Laminated Wood Flooring

5- Marble Flooring

6- Granite Flooring

7- Vinyl Flooring

8- Glass Flooring

9- Terracotta Flooring

Vitrified Tiles-

Vitrified tiles are baked in very high temperatures, absorb very little moisture and do not stain easily. The surface is very smooth and shiny as they are well polished and they are available in many patterns and prices.

As they can be bend at the edges, vitrified tiles are very suitable for staircases. The price ranges from Rs.40 per sqft to Rs.260 per sqft. The choices in pattern are virtually limitless. The labour cost for laying the tiles would be Rs.11- 13 per tile.

The main disadvantage is that vitrified tiles tend to be slippery, especially when the floor is wet. They are not environment-friendly either.

Tiling is best performed toward the end stages of construction, so as to prevent damages and staining. Acid-wash can be done to resist staining.

More links on Flooring Options-

Kerala Material Suppliers

2010-09-12T04:51:00.000+04:00

Adorn Enterprises
Contact: ABDUL SULHAR T K
S.R.M. Rd Enk North-682018.
Phone: 0484-2405801

Concord Enterprises
Contact: PREMCHANDRAN K
Peringatt Bldg SK Rd-682016.
Phone: 0484-2367229

Decor Point
Contact: PURUSHOTHAMAN
A1 PK Bldg Nr Malabar Gate Ram Mohan Rd Chithavalappu Calicut-673004.
Phone: 0495-2254371

Dream Decors
Contact: Ist Flr Mavelil Cplx Manorama Jn-682036.
Phone: 0484-2318293

Friends Industries
Contact: VENUGOPAL A
Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium Complex Kaloor-682017.
Phone: 0484-3096695

FX Info Technologies Ltd
Contact: GANESH BHAT
40/906 3rd Flr Nedumchalil Chambers Mullassery Cnl Rd-682011.
Phone: 0484-2371850

Gee Tee Trading Company
Contact: GEORGE THOMAS
Opp Municipal Office Kalamassery-682033.
Phone: 0484-2542748

Kalathiveettil Wood Industries
Contact: JOHN
26/585-A St Johns Church Rd-682013.
Phone: 0484-2663467

M M Trading Company
Contact: JOS
36/826-A Nedungadan Cplx Lisie Hosp Rd-682018.
Phone: 0484-2403506

Natura Fibretech Pvt Ltd
Contact: BALAKRISHNAN A V
29/1459 Gokul Nivas Lakshmi Dairy Campus Vyttila-682019.
Phone: 0484-2302346