Terrazzo floor - all you need to know about this floor type

Still unsure? Read on! You most likely wouldn’t end this article still feeling that way.

1. What is terrazzo flooring?

Terrazzo flooring is composed of composite materials like stone, glass, marbles, which are bonded by either epoxy resin or cement.

Now that you have an idea of what terrazzo flooring is about, it is important that you know the types of terrazzo and their properties.

2. Types of terrazzo flooring

2.1 Epoxy terrazzo

Epoxy terrazzo involves using an epoxy matrix to bind the different terrazzo materials together. It is the combination of epoxy and the aggregate materials used to form the terrazzo in a thin-set system. Epoxy terrazzo uses a limitless amount of colours , combined with pieces of marble, glass, stone, and so on, to give an elegant, smooth and classy finish.

Pros of epoxy terrazzo

·         It is easier and faster to install.

·         It offers a limitless option of customization.

·         It is very smooth and glossy.

·         It is perfect for interior floorings, as well as work surfaces or slabs.

·         It is not prone to chipping or cracking.

·         It requires little or no maintenance.

Cons of epoxy terrazzo

·         It does not tolerate harsh weather conditions, and as such is not durable enough to be used for exteriors. This is because too much exposure to sunlight can damage it.

·         It requires professional installation – for terrazzo finishes, you won’t be able to cut to the chase and do it yourself. Also, the choice of installer matters. You wouldn’t just need an installer, but a good installer. This should however not be an issue because we at Daibau are here for you as we have a limitless number of professionals who cannot but do a fine job for you.

2.2 Cement terrazzo

While epoxy terrazzo is the binding of epoxy matrix with the different chips of terrazzo materials, cement terrazzo has to do with binding of these aggregate chips in cement.

Pros of cement terrazzo

·         It is able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Hence, it is suitable for both interior and exterior.

·         It is thicker and heavier than the epoxy terrazzo which means that it is more durable.

·         It offers a variety of colours.

Cons of cement terrazzo

·         It takes a comparatively longer time to install.

·         It is less glossy.

·         Also a professional installation – but as already mentioned this is not a problem as long as you trust us at Daibau to help you.

2.3 Rustic terrazzo

Rustic terrazzo is a great choice for exteriors. It has a rough surface which makes it slip resistant. It offers as much design options as other types of terrazzo, and is mostly used in the exteriors of a hotel, park, museum, as well as around, or in a pool.

2.4 Sand cushion terrazzo

This type of terrazzo has a different construction structure. It consists of different layers of materials such as, wire meshes, isolation sheets and layers of sand. It also has great design capabilities as with other terrazzo types.

We have seen the advantages and disadvantages of some of the types of terrazzo. However, here are some additional advantages applicable to terrazzo in general;

·         It is easy to maintain.

·         It is cost effective when compared to other types of flooring.

·         It offers a wide variety of options – from the different types of terrazzo to be chosen from, to the different design, colours and patterns you have to choose from.

·         It is very durable, having an average life span of 75 years. They can literally last the life of the building.

·         The surface of terrazzo floorings does not retain heat well which makes the floor subtly cold. This may be disadvantageous for people who live in areas that are mostly cold. But for us, it could be considered as a blessing in disguise since we are always looking for ways to make it cooler for us due to our mostly hot weather conditions. So, apart from flooring benefits, we get cooling benefits from using terrazzo.

·         More than flooring, it can be used for other surfaces such as slabs and work surfaces.

You now know the edge terrazzo has over other types of floorings, as well as what type of terrazzo is best for interior or exterior. We also believe that by now, you already know the best bet when it comes to terrazzo making and installation. Well, if you don’t, we are glad to announce to you that Daibau is your best bet when it comes to such services. At Daibau we have professional contractors who are in the business of terrazzo. All you have to do to make it happen is – CONTACT US TODAY!