Essential knowledge of material selection for decoration
I. Fundamental Principles of Material Selection
- Safety First
- Prioritize fire-resistant, non-toxic, and low-emission materials (e.g., E0/E1 grade boards, lead-free paints).
- Verify compliance certificates (e.g., China’s GB standards, EU’s CE marking).
- Functionality & Practicality
- Moisture-proof materials for kitchens/bathrooms (e.g., ceramic tiles, PVC ceilings).
- Wear-resistant flooring for high-traffic areas (e.g., porcelain tiles, solid wood with UV coating).
- Soundproofing options for walls/floors (e.g., cork panels, acoustic foam).
- Aesthetic Coordination
- Maintain style consistency (e.g., marble for modern luxury, reclaimed wood for rustic).
- Consider color psychology (e.g., light tones to amplify space, warm hues for coziness).
- Budget Balance
- Allocate funds wisely: Invest in durable “hard” materials (e.g., plumbing, wiring) while saving on decorative elements.
II. Key Material Categories & Selection Tips
1. Flooring Materials
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Wood | Natural, warm feel | High cost, prone to scratches | Living rooms, bedrooms |
| Laminate | Affordable, scratch-resistant | Less waterproof | Budget-friendly projects |
| Porcelain Tile | Durable, waterproof | Cold underfoot | Kitchens, bathrooms |
Tip: Check slip resistance (R10-R13 for wet areas) and abrasion class (AC3-AC5 for durability).
2. Wall Materials
- Paint: Water-based (eco-friendly) vs. oil-based (durable). Opt for washable finishes in kids’ rooms.
- Wallpaper: Vinyl (waterproof) for humidity-prone zones; fabric/paper for breathability.
- Tiles: Subway tiles for kitchens; large-format panels for seamless looks.
3. Ceiling Options
- Gypsum Board: Versatile for designs but avoid in damp areas.
- Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight, mold-proof for bathrooms.
4. Cabinetry & Countertops
- Cabinets: Particleboard (budget) vs. plywood (sturdy). Soft-close hinges recommended.
- Countertops: Quartz (stain-resistant) > Granite (heat-resistant) > Laminate (economical).
5. Plumbing & Electrical
- Pipes: PPR (anti-scaling) for water supply; PVC for drainage.
- Wires: BV single-core copper wires (safer than aluminum).
III. Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Greenwashing Traps
- Look beyond “eco-friendly” labels; demand test reports for VOC emissions (e.g., formaldehyde ≤0.08mg/m³).
- Overlooking Installation
- Even premium materials fail if installed poorly. Example: Tiles require proper back buttering to prevent hollow spots.
- Ignoring Maintenance
- Natural stone (e.g., marble) needs sealing; solid wood floors demand seasonal humidity control.
- Trend Overload
- Avoid overly trendy materials (e.g., glitter tiles) that may date quickly. Neutral bases + accent pieces offer longevity.
IV. Pro Tips
- Sample Testing: View materials in natural light to check true colors/textures.
- Supplier Vetting: Choose vendors with 5+ years’ warranties and after-sales service.
- Professional Consultation: Engage an interior designer for ≥3 material scheme options.
Final Reminder: Balance cost, durability, and aesthetics. For instance, pair mid-range tiles (¥50-80/m²) with luxury faucets for a high-end feel without overspending.
Key Terms Explained
- E0/E1: Emission standards (E0 ≤0.05mg/m³ formaldehyde; E1 ≤0.124mg/m³).
- VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds (harmful gases emitted by adhesives/paints).
- PPR Pipe: Polypropylene Random Copolymer, a durable plastic piping material.
This translation maintains technical accuracy while adapting to Western readability norms, using tables for comparative clarity and bold/italic emphasis for key points. Let me know if you’d like any section expanded!
Original article, author：SUNNY COTTAGE CO., L，If reproduced, please indicate the source：https://www.decorationbydiana.com/22028/
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