Seamless Floor – What You Should Know About the Interior Design Trend

Seamless flooring is increasingly becoming a trend. We provide you with all the information you need to know about this unique type of flooring. Continue reading now!

Seamless floors have become a popular trend in modern interior design. This unique type of flooring is known for its clean and seamless appearance, making it a stylish and visually appealing choice for both residential and commercial spaces. In addition to its attractive aesthetics, seamless floors also offer practical and functional benefits.

Compared to traditional floor coverings, a seamless floor brings several essential advantages. Thanks to its seamless surface, it is more hygienic, easier to clean, and maintain. This makes it the ideal choice for both public areas and private households. Additionally, the absence of joints in the seamless design prevents dirt, bacteria, or allergens from finding a place to settle.

In this article, we will explore interesting aspects of the seamless floor trend. With the growing popularity of seamless surfaces, a wide range of products with varying prices and quality have emerged in the market – we will provide you with an overview. Additionally, you will discover how IBOD’s seamless floor coverings can create a captivating atmosphere in both new constructions and renovation projects.

What types and materials of seamless floor coverings are available?

There are different types of seamless flooring materials that are used in various areas due to their unique characteristics and benefits. However, the systems and compositions of these seamless floors also vary.

For example, there are systems that come pre-mixed and ready to use (1K), but also systems that require mixing with water, acrylic, or resin (2K). This distinction is particularly important when comparing prices. The choice of the right seamless flooring depends heavily on specific requirements and preferences.

Microcement, Ciré concrete, Pandomo, or concrete-style floor

Micro cement, Ciré concrete, Pandomo, and concrete-look floor are all terms that are used to describe a seamless cement-based floor. These types of floor coverings are made from a carefully blended mixture of cement, quartz sand, and special additives, resulting in a jointless and seamless appearance.

This type of flooring is resistant, durable, and provides a wide range of design options in terms of color and texture. Our range of products includes Doppo Ambiente Boden, Doppo Ambiente Boden Solido, Doppo Ambiente Pro+, and Doppo Ambiente Pro+ SN

Industrial floor, polyurethane floor, or epoxy resin floor are three types of seamless floor coverings commonly used in commercial and industrial settings

Industrial flooring, also known as polyurethane and epoxy resin flooring, is a highly durable and hard-wearing plastic floor covering. It is specifically designed for use in industrial and commercial areas, as well as garages where high levels of resilience and resistance to chemicals are necessary. However, it is not commonly used in residential areas.

This floor coating is made up of two individual components – epoxy resin or polyurethane and hardener. Our corresponding products are “doppo EP coating” and “doppo PU coating”.

The floors can be manufactured in a wide range of colors and can be personalized with logos and lettering. Additionally, depending on the specific requirements and usage, they can be filled and sprinkled with quartz sand (to prevent scratches) or with color chips (R11 or R12).

Gussterrazzo

Terrazzo, a floor covering with a rich history, was already popular in antiquity, commonly used in the 1920s, and now it has become a trendy interior design choice. This robust floor, characterized by its distinctive small and large inclusions and unique color variations, is highly durable and long-lasting.

The Gussterrazzo is a versatile flooring option and is particularly well-suited for prestigious areas, public facilities, exhibition spaces, schools, museums, food markets, reception halls, and residential areas. With a minimum installation height of 10 mm, Gussterrazzo is the thickest among our range of systems.

Visible screed

The exposed screed or visible screed serves as a floor without any additional covering. It is a seamless floor covering primarily made of cement, sand, and water. It is especially popular in modern living and working areas, thanks to its minimalist and industrial aesthetic.

In comparison to the cement-based jointless design floors, the grain is larger (6mm), and the color tone can be lighter or darker in specific areas, depending on the texture

The specialists at IBOD and their partner companies have extensive experience in working with all of these floor coverings and can provide guidance on which one is best suited for a specific project. They prioritize the use of high-quality materials and precise installation to ensure maximum durability and customer satisfaction.

Spachtelböden und Gießböden – Techniques for installing seamless floors

There are two techniques for achieving a seamless floor coating, each resulting in a distinct appearance. Putty floors and pouring floors are the two most commonly used methods for installing jointless floors. Both techniques offer a seamless finish that is highly sought after in modern design concepts. However, what sets these two installation methods apart and how are they applied?

Trowel Floor

A trowel floor is, as the name suggests, applied using a trowel or a smoothing trowel

The smoothing trowel is applied to the prepared substrate in the desired layer thickness. The material is either applied layer by layer until the desired thickness is achieved or applied in a single operation. Typically, filler floors have a height of 3mm.

Spreading requires a high level of craftsmanship precision. It may take several days for the floor to be fully installed, as each layer must dry completely before moving on to the next step. After the recommended drying times for the floor filler, it can then be treated with an impregnating agent and/or sealed.

The fillers typically consist of mixtures of cement, quartz sand, and special binders. They can be individually colored, and the filler texture of the floor varies depending on the installer’s technique. The result is a one-of-a-kind, aesthetically appealing floor that is extremely durable and long-lasting.

Poured floor

Unlike the filler floor, the cast floor is poured in liquid form onto the primed substrate and spread evenly using a trowel. The cast floor is self-leveling, which ensures that the material is distributed evenly across the entire surface. Then, a flat trowel or smoothing tool is used to stroke the surface in a slalom-like motion, resulting in additional ventilation of the filler material. This process creates a perfectly flat and seamless floor with a subtle cloudy appearance

The filler compounds are typically composed of mixtures of cement, quartz sand, and special binders. They can be customized with individual coloring, resulting in a subtly mottled appearance. When using cast terrazzo, the addition of small and larger marble chips creates a trendy and unique look.

Both types of seamless floors – filler floors and pouring floors – offer a modern, stylish, durable, and low-maintenance solution for almost any room. When deciding between the two, it is important to consider your specific needs and requirements. The complexity of the installation and the cost can also be factors in the decision-making process. At IBOD, we can assist you in making this decision and provide you with the perfect solution for your seamless floor.

IBOD tip:

We recommend visiting a showroom or examining sample areas to get a firsthand impression of the available floors and the installation techniques used.

Rolling up a seamless floor

However, there are also floor systems – specifically in the DIY sector – that can be “rolled on” so to speak. In these cases, typically only coloured or transparent sealants are used. While sealing provides less protection against abrasion, it is often cheaper and easier to apply due to its single-component nature. However, it is important to note that the coating achieved through a spatula floor or pouring floor is of higher quality

When applying the web-by-web rolling technique, it can lead to an uneven appearance and rolling tracks are often visible. On the other hand, traditional epoxy resin and polyurethane coatings are self-leveling, resulting in a seamless and smooth surface. Depending on the specific requirements and usage, additional filling and sprinkling with quartz sand (for scratch resistance) or color chips (R11 or R12) can also be applied.

The preparation of the subfloor is essential for all systems. The advantage of using a short-haired roller for application is that it is easier on the user’s knees. Price-wise, rolling on the material is the most cost-effective DIY method, but caution should be taken regarding the quality and longevity of the floor.

What are the differences between seamless flooring and traditional flooring?

In comparison to traditional floor coverings like tiles or laminate, the seamless floor offers several advantages. Tiles, for example, can sometimes crack and replacing them can be a laborious task. Additionally, the grout lines in between tiles require intensive cleaning and can easily accumulate dirt.

Given that the screed was previously only used in the substructure, it now requires a certain level of care and attention in its execution and in the selection of materials in order to achieve a visually pleasing result

Laminate is available in a wide range of designs and colors. However, it is prone to wear and discoloration, especially in high-traffic areas or under direct sunlight. Additionally, laminate floors have a tendency to absorb moisture, which can cause them to swell and deform.

In contrast, seamless floors from IBOD are resistant to wear, moisture, and UV radiation. Their seamless surface allows for easy cleaning and ensures a more hygienic environment. Additionally, they are breathable and non-flammable, contributing to a healthier and safer living and working environment.

Another crucial difference lies in the personalisation and customisability. While the options for traditional floor coverings are often restricted to pre-defined designs and colours, IBOD’s seamless floors can be tailored to individual preferences and requirements. This allows for the creation of one-of-a-kind masterpieces that perfectly complement the specific space and style, bearing the personal touch of the installer.

All the benefits of seamless flooring and its applications

Seamless floors offer numerous advantages that make them an increasingly popular choice for modern residential and commercial spaces. Their aesthetic and minimalist design seamlessly complements any room, while their easy maintenance and durability are just a few of the many reasons that make seamless floors so appealing.

1. Seamless floor and underfloor heating

Underfloor heating is becoming a more common feature in modern buildings. Seamless floors are an excellent option for efficiently distributing heat

The seamless surface enables uniform heat transfer throughout the entire floor area. This results in more efficient utilization of heat and provides evenly distributed warmth in the room. Furthermore, the seamless floor has the advantage of not having any gaps that can accumulate dust and allergens. This is particularly beneficial, especially for spaces with underfloor heating.

2. Seamless bathrooms and floors in wet areas

Fugenlose floors are particularly beneficial in bathrooms and other wet areas. Due to their seamless nature, they are resistant to water and prevent the buildup of moisture that can lead to mold formation.

Non-slip floor coverings also provide increased safety by adding Ballotini glass beads or anti-slip particles to achieve the required slip resistance classes.

The seamless bathroom is also easy to clean, as no soap residue or dirt can accumulate in grout lines. The wide range of designs and colors available for seamless floors and walls allows you to create the perfect look for your bathroom

This modern floor and wall design is also ideal for renovating and refreshing your bathroom. The filling compound can easily be applied over your existing tiles, avoiding the need for extensive and dusty demolition work.

3. Seamless floors for residential areas

In living spaces, a seamless floor can visually expand the room and create a seamless transition between different areas. The uniform surface of a seamless floor in the living area contributes to a minimalist aesthetic that effortlessly integrates into various interior design styles

Furthermore, a seamless floor is highly durable and outperforms many traditional floor coverings in terms of daily wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for areas like living rooms or kitchens.

4. Seamless floor in garages

The seamless floor can also showcase its advantages in garages. It is resistant to oil, chemicals, and mechanical loads, making it particularly well-suited for garages and workshops. The seamless surface prevents dust, dirt, or liquids from accumulating in crevices, greatly facilitating the cleaning process.

Furthermore, seamless floors in garages provide an appealing and sophisticated appearance. The wide range of available colors, color chip inserts, and finishes allows for customization according to individual style and room requirements. This ensures that a seamless floor in the garage is not only functional, but also visually pleasing.

Another advantage lies in the quick and straightforward installation process: Unlike other types of flooring, a seamless floor can be applied and walked on within a short period of time, minimizing any downtime.

5. Seamless floor and the freedom of colour

When it comes to color design, the possibilities are endless. For those who prefer colorful furniture and decorations in their interior, a calm shade of light grey can provide a wonderful backdrop. Subtle furniture and carpets can be highlighted on a colored floor, such as the trendy new color magenta. And if your color preferences change over the years, the floor can be easily sanded and repainted to adapt to your evolving style. This allows you to personalize your home design according to your own needs and preferences.

5 Outdoor Applications of Seamless Flooring

In outdoor areas, seamless floors offer a wide range of design possibilities. Stone carpet floors are a popular choice for outdoor spaces such as terraces, balconies, and pool areas. They are highly resistant to weathering and UV radiation, making them ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, their seamless nature ensures easy maintenance as dirt and water cannot penetrate into joints.

The seamless appearance also creates a harmonious and modern overall look, providing endless design possibilities. This allows for customized outdoor spaces that perfectly complement the interior, creating a seamless living experience.

Moreover, a seamless floor in outdoor areas also provides functional advantages. It offers slip resistance, which is especially crucial in wet conditions and enhances safety. Additionally, the seamless execution allows for barrier-free floor design, eliminating level differences and trip hazards, thus increasing comfort and accessibility.

The seamless floor also excels in outdoor areas due to its longevity and durability. It not only withstands different weather conditions, but is also resistant to mechanical strain. This makes it the perfect choice for areas that are subject to heavy use and high levels of stress.

What are the potential drawbacks of a seamless floor?

Jointless floors come with potential drawbacks that should be taken into consideration before deciding on such a flooring option. Firstly, they can entail higher initial costs compared to traditional floor coverings, as they require not only the material expenses but also the preparation of the substrate and professional installation

Secondly, the installation of a seamless floor requires special expertise and experience to avoid issues such as cracks. Improper installation can also make repairs more difficult or, in some cases, necessitate a complete floor replacement.

Therefore, the team at IBOD collaborates closely with customers and partners to find the optimal solution for their specific requirements. Comprehensive consultations and accurate cost estimates are provided in the process

The myth – Are seamless floors less comfortable? Seamless floors are actually very comfortable to walk on barefoot. Cementitious floors and floors made with EP or PU have a soft and pleasant feel. Additionally, they have excellent thermal conductivity, making them particularly cozy in winter.

The importance of subsurface preparation

A crucial factor for the successful application of seamless flooring is the meticulous preparation of the substrate. Before the material – whether it is the seamless cement-based design floor, industrial floor, or terrazzo – can be poured or applied, the substrate needs to be carefully prepared. This involves cleaning the surface from dust, loose particles, grease or oil, and dirt. Additionally, assessing and, if necessary, improving the surface condition, as well as applying a primer to ensure proper adhesion, are essential steps in the process.

Seamless floors can also be installed over tiles. This provides numerous advantages, particularly in the renovation and refurbishment of rooms. In new constructions, the screed is usually in impeccable condition and requires minimal subsurface preparation. However, when renovating, multiple steps may be necessary as a perfect subfloor is essential for achieving a flawless and seamless floor covering.

Spachteltechniken translates to “spatula techniques” in English. In the context of seamless floors, it refers to the various methods and techniques used to apply the spackle material and create a smooth and seamless surface

To apply materials for seamless floors, extensive knowledge and the right tools are essential. These enable the creation of a uniform and seamless surface. Different techniques can be employed depending on the desired final result

The art of troweling requires skill and experience in order to achieve a smooth, even surface without any visible signs of joint lines or unevenness. This creates unique floors that bear the personal touch of the installer.

Costs and Considerations for Installing Seamless Flooring

The installation of a seamless floor can vary depending on the choice of materials and the size of the project. A significant cost factor for seamless surfaces is the craftsmanship involved in installing the floor and ensuring the quality of the subfloor. Additionally, the cost of accessories, tools, and equipment also plays a crucial role in the overall cost of the materials

doppo Ambiente Wall:	€90 – 150
Floor areas:	€150 – €220
Pro+ areas in wet areas:	€200 – €300
Terrazzo:	Starting from €250.00

The prices provided are based on the standard construction system and do not include any preparatory work or subsurface preparations. Please note that these price estimates are calculated for small areas.

Additional Costs for Jointless Flooring

During renovations, it is possible that more extensive preparations may be required if the substrate is in very poor condition. These preparations, such as shot blasting, can be quite costly

The costs for our products “doppo Ambiente Boden”, “doppo Ambiente Boden Solido” and “doppo Ambiente Gussterrazzo” vary depending on the colour variants and can vary significantly

If a room has many corners, transitions, or other irregularities that require additional care and preparation, the price may also increase accordingly.

Quality and longevity are the key attributes of a seamless floor

It should be noted that the longevity and ease of maintenance of a jointless custom floor justify the initial costs

Be cautious of offers that are too inexpensive, as they may indicate the use of inferior materials or a lack of proper subsurface preparation. However, subsurface preparation is crucial to prevent the formation of cracks or large air bubbles later on.

At IBOD, we recommend thorough planning and consultation as it is crucial for the successful installation and long-lasting durability of your project. Only through careful consideration and expert advice can any potential issues be identified early on and appropriate solutions be found. As specialists in the manufacturing and installation of seamless floors, we are here to assist you every step of the way

Installation of a seamless floor in outdoor areas

Seamless flooring is not only suitable for indoor areas but can also be an aesthetically pleasing and practical solution for outdoor spaces. However, there are specific challenges to consider when opting for seamless flooring in outdoor areas

For instance, the materials used must be resistant to weather conditions and capable of withstanding temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, it is important for the material to have a non-slip surface to ensure safety even in wet conditions. IBOD recommends seeking guidance from an expert in order to select the most suitable material for outdoor use and to ensure a professional installation.

Who are the suppliers and installers of seamless floors?

As a provider of seamless floors and wall surfaces, IBOD is among the top manufacturers in the market. We possess the expertise and years of experience necessary to produce materials of the highest quality for seamless floors.

At IBOD, we prioritize advanced technologies and place great value on the durability of our products. Therefore, we work closely with our customers to deliver customized solutions that meet the specific requirements of each project.

In addition to IBOD as a producer of seamless flooring materials, there are numerous companies in the market that specialize in installing these types of floor coverings. Some of them are our trained partner companies: IBOD has established a network of reliable installation companies that share our commitment to high standards of quality, efficiency, and customer service

Through collaboration with these partner companies and independent craftsmen, IBOD can ensure that customers receive not only high-quality materials, but also a top-notch installation.

Case studies and examples of applications for seamless flooring

Seamless floors are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts. An excellent example of this is their use in showrooms. These spaces greatly benefit from the aesthetic and functional advantages of a seamless flooring solution.

IBOD, with its expertise in manufacturing seamless floors, has equipped numerous showrooms with custom-made, high-quality seamless floors. These floors add an additional dimension of elegance and modernity to any space.

Wall decoration with seamless material

Seamless materials are not only suitable for floors but can also be used for wall design, creating a seamless transition and a unified design. Filling compounds, like those used in jointless floors, can be applied to walls, resulting in a minimalist yet visually appealing look. IBOD has successfully implemented such seamless wall designs in various projects, both in residential and public areas.

Large-scale seamless floor surfaces

The implementation of large seamless floor surfaces poses a special challenge, but also comes with numerous benefits. Seamless spackle floors or poured floors enable a uniform appearance that creates a sense of spaciousness and attractiveness in rooms.

We at IBOD have extensive experience in implementing such projects and can confirm that the aesthetic impact, as well as the ease of care and maintenance, more than make up for the initial requirements.

Exposed Concrete and Seamless Floor

Exposed concrete has a distinctive aesthetic that complements seamless flooring perfectly. In residential areas, the combination of exposed concrete on walls and ceilings with a seamless floor can create an inviting and simultaneously industrially modern atmosphere.

IBOD has successfully completed several of these projects. One important lesson learned is that the proper selection and coordination of materials is crucial for achieving success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a seamless floor?

A seamless floor is a type of floor covering that eliminates the need for joints. This creates a smooth and uniform appearance in rooms and is highly sought after in contemporary architecture and design. Seamless floors can be constructed using various materials and are suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.

Does a seamless bathroom truly have no seams?

A seamless floor indeed does not have any visible joints, as commonly seen in traditional tiled floors. However, it is important to include movement joints, typically located in the corners or at the transitions between the floor and wall, also known as maintenance joints. By selecting the appropriate sealing material, these joints can be seamlessly integrated into the appearance of the jointless surfaces. Therefore, at IBOD, we provide the suitable silicone for all our 64 standard colors.

What materials are used for seamless floors?

Various materials are used for seamless floors, including micro cement, concrete, epoxy resin, and specialized fillers. The choice of material depends on the desired aesthetic, the intended use, and the specific requirements of the space.

What are the advantages of seamless flooring?

Seamless floors have numerous benefits. They are highly easy to maintain due to the absence of joints where dirt can accumulate. Additionally, they are built to be sturdy and long-lasting, while also providing a sleek and contemporary appearance. Moreover, seamless floors can be customized in various colors and finishes, allowing them to be tailored to suit any interior design.

How much does jointless flooring cost compared to traditional flooring?

The costs for seamless flooring can vary and depend on various factors such as the chosen material, the size of the area, and the expenses for professional installation. In general, the initial costs for seamless flooring can be higher compared to traditional floor coverings. However, they are a worthwhile investment due to their longevity and ease of maintenance.

Is it possible to use seamless flooring in my bathroom?

Yes, seamless flooring is perfect for bathrooms. At IBOD, we have specifically developed the ideal product for this purpose – doppo Ambiente Pro+. It is water-resistant, slip-resistant, and easy to clean, making it a hygienic choice for wet areas. Additionally, doppo Ambiente Pro+ allows for wall design as well, creating a cohesive and seamless aesthetic that visually enhances the size of the bathroom.

Can seamless floor be used with underfloor heating?

Yes, seamless flooring is excellent when used with underfloor heating. It enables an even distribution of heat and is therefore a highly efficient option to consider when using underfloor heating systems.

How do I maintain a seamless floor?

Seamless flooring is highly low maintenance. Regularly sweeping and mopping with clean water and a damp microfiber cloth is usually enough to keep it clean. For stubborn stains or dirt, you can use specialized cleaning products

To maintain the original beauty, we recommend proper maintenance. This starts with preventive measures. For example, it is advisable to use a dirt-trapping mat in the entrance area to keep out moisture and dirt. Additionally, when placing furniture and decorative items on the floor, using felt glides is recommended. By equipping chairs, tables, sofas, or vases with these glides, you can ensure that they don’t damage the floor.

Where can I find vendors for seamless flooring?

There are different providers of seamless flooring. One example is the company IBOD, which offers a wide range of seamless flooring solutions and works in partnership with trained companies. When choosing a provider, it is important to consider quality, experience, and customer satisfaction.