There is no question that terrazzo is making a comeback for residential and commercial floors. This material, which was popular from the early 1400s all the way through the 1970s, is now staging a return in modern homes—with some surprising new uses.
No matter if you are building a new home, or simply completing a renovation, selecting the flooring can be a huge decision on which all of the other fixtures and details are built. Once you have selected the right type of flooring, you will be able to select the wall color, tiling and cabinetry with confidence. Even though terrazzo was abandoned for a few decades, it is definitely back and has become a popular option for sinks, furniture, countertops and flooring.
Installation Methods for Terrazzo Flooring Today
Up until the 1970s, the installation of terrazzo involved the onsite pouring of a base of cement. When that was fully dry, then a layer of sandy cement would be added, then a layer of the colored chip mixture, which was poured on the cement, which would still be wet. At this point a weighted roller would be run over the flooring surface.
The installation of terrazzo flooring today involves a mix of colored chips and epoxy resin. This will be poured onto a slab that is approximately ¼ of an inch to 3/8 of an inch in total thickness, making it much quicker to install. Terrazzo that is thinner also provides a much wider array of color options, is much lighter in weight and has a finish that is impervious, which means it will crack much less than other methods of installation. The main downside to this type of epoxy resin base is that it will only be able to be used for interior spaces since it will lose its color and peel if installed outdoors.
Once the surface is fully dry, then a grinder will be used, with any holes being filled or troweled in order to create a finish that is smooth. The surface will then be cleaned, polished and properly sealed. This is what will provide the great looking finish that terrazzo flooring is known for.
The fact is that terrazzo flooring can provide you with an elegant look at only a fraction of the cost of traditional marble flooring. It is also extremely durable and requires little maintenance, making it a great option for both residential and commercial properties.
