A Guide to IPS Flooring: Benefits, Types and More!

Creating a beautiful home begins with a solid foundation, which is the floor of any home. It’s the most visually appealing thing that guests notice the first time they enter your home, and the same unit needs to be aesthetically pleasing and useful. Flooring trends have shifted over time from traditional grey cement and red oxide to ceramic, vinyl, hardwood, and marble options. Now, people have decided to opt for affordable yet classic flooring designs called Indian Patent Stone (IPS) flooring.

This straightforward flooring technique can save you thousands of rupees without sacrificing any design or pattern you desire for your floor. Its texture can be customised to suit your style, offering a smooth, polished look for modern spaces or a textured finish for an industrial vibe. You can choose this type of flooring for all residential and commercial spaces.

This article will help you learn more about the components of IPS or Indian Patient Stone flooring and why it will change the look of your home.

What Exactly is IPS Flooring?

Indian Patent Stone (IPS) flooring is a resilient and economical choice, made from a mix of cement, water, sand, and coarse aggregates in a 1:1.5:3 ratio. It's typically laid on a 3 to 4-inch layer of Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) for enhanced stability. This technique is traditionally used in Indian homes with heavy foot traffic, as it requires minimal upkeep and makes any rugged space look shiny and polished.

The thickness of this flooring can range between 25 mm and 50 mm, depending on the customer’s home requirements and budget. The thickness can be easily modified after considering the space’s foot traffic and can go as high as 150 mm by adding more elements to the mix.

In India, the typical price of IPS Flooring Texture per square foot ranges between Rs. 60 and 80, based on factors like labour charges, room size, and home design. This flooring design can be placed anywhere: entryways, kitchen backsplashes, balconies, hallways, and terraces.

Why Choosing IPS Flooring Can Be The Best Decision You Make While Building Your Dream Home?

Here are some benefits of opting for IPS Flooring over other floor design options like hardwood or vitrified tiles:

Cost-Effectiveness

IPS (Indian Patent Stone) flooring is an affordable alternative to many traditional flooring options with minimal material costs. Additionally, IPS flooring's durability significantly reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs, which translates into long-term savings. It does not need expensive cleaners or regular polishing treatments, allowing homeowners to achieve a modern look without overspending.

Durability

One of the most outstanding benefits of IPS flooring is its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. This flooring is constructed from a mixture of cement, water, sand, and coarse aggregates, resulting in a solid, stable floor that can handle substantial weight and movement. Its strength lies in the foundational Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) layer, typically 3 to 4 inches thick, which provides a robust base.

Versatile Design Options

IPS flooring provides an impressive range of design possibilities, making it an appealing option for homeowners seeking a customisable floor solution. The surface can be tinted in different colours or stained to suit specific aesthetic preferences, allowing homeowners to personalise their floors to align with their overall decor.

Eco-Friendly

IPS flooring is an environmentally friendly choice for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint. It is much more sustainable than other synthetic compounds, which require constant replacements and maintenance. The production and installation of IPS flooring generate less construction waste, making it a cleaner choice from a lifecycle perspective.

Damp Resistance

IPS flooring is naturally non-absorbent which makes it ideal for areas requiring water-resistant flooring, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces. It also helps prevent issues like mold and mildew, ensuring a healthier environment and longer-lasting floor that doesn’t require much cleaning.

Fast Construction Speed

One of the key benefits of IPS flooring is its quick construction process, which allows for rapid project completion. Its installation process is straightforward, often requiring fewer materials and less labour than other flooring types. Precast IPS flooring slabs can further streamline the construction process and meet tight project deadlines.

Different Types of IPS Flooring

Below are the designs and styles of IPS Flooring that might fit your home based on metrics like customer preference and house layout:

Standard IPS Flooring

Standard IPS (Indian Patent Stone) flooring is the most commonly used form of flooring in all kinds of properties. It serves as a reliable, long-lasting flooring solution for areas exposed to heavy foot traffic, machinery, and other forms of daily wear and tear. This type of flooring is laid on a solid base of plain cement concrete (PCC), which enhances its stability and strength. Standard IPS flooring provides a rugged, low-maintenance surface that doesn't require frequent upkeep, making it both economical and practical for businesses.

Coloured IPS Flooring

Coloured IPS flooring uses metal oxides and dyes to create vibrant concrete tones that reflect the homeowner’s personality. This technique infuses the floor with a variety of color options, from subtle earth tones to bold, vibrant hues, enabling any type of customisations. This flooring type is ideal for spaces where a touch of personality is desired, such as schools, recreational centres, and even residential spaces like kitchens or patios.

Textured IPS Flooring

Textured IPS flooring adds depth to standard concrete floors, offering a tactile and visually interesting surface. During the installation process, specialised tools, chips, and stencils are used to create various textures and patterns on the concrete surface, allowing for a wide range of designs. Its durability and low maintenance requirements remain consistent with standard IPS flooring, while the added texture makes it a stylish and practical choice.

Polished IPS Flooring

Polished IPS flooring offers a refined, glossy finish to homes. Chemicals are used to create a smooth, high-gloss surface. This type of flooring is often chosen for high-end residential buildings, hotels, showrooms, and other places where a luxurious atmosphere is desired. In addition, the flooring is durable and resistant to stains, making it easier to clean.

Matte Finish IPS Flooring

Matte finish IPS flooring bring warmth and elegance to any space with non-reflective surfaces and matte finishes. It makes the floor less prone to visible scratches or scuffs, providing an added benefit for high-traffic areas. While maintaining the same durability and longevity as other IPS flooring types, the matte finish provides a more muted look that complements minimalist or rustic decor styles.

The Future of Home Design: IPS Flooring

In conclusion, IPS (Indian Patent Stone) flooring stands out as an affordable, versatile, and durable option that caters to a wide range of home styles and functional needs. Its adaptability, easy customisation, versatility, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance make it the best choice for home and business owners. It can handle heavy foot traffic and provides a lasting foundation that doesn't easily show wear or require frequent repairs, translating into long-term savings and reliability.

Hence, IPS flooring is the next big thing in flooring designs that will certainly enhance your property value and make your home look fabulous for years to come.