floor

A floor is the lower horizontal surface of a room or building that people walk on and that supports furnishings and occupants. In architectural terms, it is the finished surface that completes the interior space and distributes loads to the structure below.

A floor system typically includes a structural subfloor or deck, an underlayment, and a finished floor. The subfloor provides rigidity and connection to the building frame, while the underlayment may improve leveling, sound insulation, or moisture control. The finished floor is the visible material selected for wear, aesthetics, and function.

Materials vary widely. Wood floors offer warmth and can be solid or engineered. Concrete floors are durable and often used in modern or industrial spaces, sometimes treated with stains or sealants. Ceramic or stone tiles are durable and water resistant, commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens. Vinyl and laminate floors provide affordable, low-maintenance options. Carpets add softness and insulation. Other materials include cork, bamboo, and terrazzo.

Installation methods depend on material: nailed or stapled wood, glued-down engineered wood, floating floors with interlocking planks, or tile set with mortar. Proper installation considers moisture levels, subfloor flatness, and expansion gaps to accommodate movement. Maintenance varies: cleaning, periodic refinishing for wood, resealing for stone or concrete, and avoiding excess moisture for wood and laminate.

Floor design affects acoustics, thermal comfort, and safety. Sustainable flooring choices emphasize low emissions, durability, and recycled content. Historically, floors evolved from dirt and stone to wood and tile, with modern materials reflecting performance demands and design trends.