Indian homes have been using red oxide flooring for generations. This traditional flooring technology is making a resurgence today. People have realised its primary advantage of being sustainable and eco-friendly compared to commercially manufactured marble and granite. Red oxide flooring is far less expensive than granite and marble. This is an amazing choice if you prefer a rustic and earthy aesthetic in your new home.
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What is red oxide flooring?
Oxides in oxide flooring add colour to the floor. It comes in various colours, but red oxide flooring, also known as kaaviyidal, is the most popular. It was historically brought to India by Italian and Portuguese traders. They are prevalent in South India. The trend began in Kerala, although they may be seen in practically every section of India, especially in older homes. Red oxide flooring is bound using cement, dirt, or lime. The oxides come in a range of colours. Red is the most common.
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Oxide flooring: Play with colours
If red oxide flooring has grabbed your attention, but you’re not a big admirer of red floors, don’t stress! There are a variety of colours in the green, blue, black, and yellow spectra too. Over 25 distinct colours can be created by combining different tints of red. There are around 20 to 25 different types of red pigment. However, be cautious of the quality of coloured oxides before installation since poor-quality oxides result in patchwork flooring over time. To give a one-of-a-kind touch to your home’s décor, use various coloured oxide flooring in different spaces.
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Red oxide flooring:Advantages
- Red oxide flooring is incredibly cost-effective as compared to marble and granite. It is scarcely a hassle. It is an exceptionally low-cost alternative.
- Red oxide flooring is easy to maintain. They do not lose their lustre as tiles do. To keep these flooring in excellent condition for years, avoid using harsh chemical cleaners and sweep and mop regularly.
- Red oxide flooring improves with time rather than deteriorates. The red oxide floor is expected to become shinier and smoother over time.
- Red oxide flooring is ideal for houses in warm and tropical climates. They are significantly cooler in the summer than tile or hardwood floors.
- Red oxide flooring is far more sustainable and eco-friendly because they are made entirely of natural substances.
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Red oxide flooring: Disadvantages
- Nowadays, it isn’t easy to find professionals who can install red oxide flooring well because the method is not often practised.
- Laying red oxide flooring is a time-consuming and labour-intensive operation. As a result, it is primarily carried out by skilful craftsmen.
- If exposed to harsh weather, red oxide flooring is prone to cracking. As a result, this type of flooring is best suited for interior rooms.
- It is critical to utilise a high-quality oxide while opting for red oxide flooring. Otherwise, the flooring would become patchy and discoloured with time.
Red oxide flooring: Cost
Red oxide flooring is significantly less expensive than other alternatives. The price per square foot is between Rs 80 and Rs 90. Marble and granite are highly costly, and the only way to save money is to compromise on quality.
Red Oxide Flooring: Laying
Now that we understand the benefits and drawbacks of a red oxide flooring; we can look at the time-consuming procedure of precisely laying this flooring.
- Finding an expert mason who can finish the red oxide flooring in one continuous stretch is the most critical factor of the procedure.
- The dry cement is blended with the oxide of choice in the first phase. To get the desired consistency, a reasonable amount of water is added.
- Following the cement application, water must be sprayed continuously at one or two-hour intervals. This is done to maintain the oxide flooring moist and keep it from drying out. If fractures form during curing, they will be challenging to repair.
- Allow a small amount of water to stand on the oxide flooring, the day after being laid. This is done to identify any irregularities or white patches.
- For at least four days, the floor should be allowed to dry and cure. The procedure of applying wax then begins.
- After applying the wax for a smooth finish, one must wait three days for the wax to thoroughly soak. The red oxide flooring is then ready for usage.
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Red oxide flooring: Integrating with your home decor
A skilled and experienced mason is required to lay a red oxide floor. As a result, if you don’t want to take on the arduous work of redoing the entire floor, you may borrow the style and use it in other ways.
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Red oxide flooring for terrace
Think again if you believe that red oxide flooring may only be utilised in your house. This classic flooring design looks great on terraces, balconies, and porches. The continuous red flooring, along with some potted plants, may entirely modify the aesthetic of your outdoor spaces.
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Red oxide flooring is one of those quintessential Indian designs that exhibits charm and timeless appeal. Red oxide flooring executed with excellent craftsmanship; may mature like fine wine, gaining lustre throughout its existence. If you seek a floor that isn’t as common as stone, tiles, or wood, red oxide flooring can be precisely what you’re looking for.