Pros and Cons of Terrazzo

Pros and Cons of Terrazzo

Pros and Cons of Terrazzo

 

Heard of terrazzo but not quite familiar with the flooring material? No problem. This blog focuses on the pros and cons of terrazzo so that you can make a conscious decision as to whether this flooring is perfect for either your home, business, or commercial project.

Pros of Terrazzo

Durability 

Terrazzo is one of the most durable flooring materials available today. Once sealed properly, the material is impervious to water and stain damage. It also does not chip away like other materials. With the increase in popularity of this material, architects turn to terrazzo. Terrazzo can withstand high traffic areas, which makes it a chosen product in commercial buildings. Even if terrazzo is worn down over the years, it can be re-finished and polished to look as good as new. When considering the low maintenance of terrazzo, it provides a long-lasting product at an affordable price.

Muse Hall Terrazzo Flooring

Limitless Design

Terrazzo embeds marble, granite, quartz, or glass chips in an epoxy resin binder, retaining aesthetic quality as seen in traditional based terrazzo. Because terrazzo is manufactured by mixing different elements together, you can choose almost any design or floor for any project. This allows architects to include abstract decorative designs, seals, logos, and other designs during the terrazzo installation.

Waterjet Terrazzo Logo

Environmentally-Friendly

Terrazzo is a beneficial material that helps in the design of sustainable buildings. To preserve scarce materials, terrazzo is a great alternative to other flooring types. The material can consist of recycled materials that have a positive impact on the health of people and the environment. Epoxy resins like the ones we manufacture at TERRAZZCO contain zero VOC contents, which diminishes harmful gasses from dispersing into the air, thus improving overall air quality. Architects and designers not only seek out terrazzo for its durability and design but also its contribution to LEED points. Because terrazzo is innovative, consists of recycled materials, and can be sourced locally, it can play a huge role in shaping the world of architecture.

Georgia World Congress Terrazzo Flooring

Indoor and Outdoor Applications

Installers can apply terrazzo in both indoor and outdoor settings (Note: Epoxy terrazzo is best for indoor use only; for outdoor applications, go with cement terrazzo). Today you can find this flooring material in high traffic areas such as lobbies, hallways, and stairways. With the ability to repel water and stains, terrazzo is also a valuable item for countertops, showers, baths, and swimming pools. So whether you go with thin-set epoxy for indoor applications or rustic terrazzo for outdoor applications, terrazzo can meet the architect’s needs to fit their style.

Miami Dade College Terrazzo Flooring

Cons Of Terrazzo

High Initial Cost

Terrazzo will save you money over time as it is quite durable and requires few repairs. However, the initial cost of terrazzo per square foot is higher in comparison to other materials. For people limited on budget, terrazzo seems unfavorable for projects.

Cold Nature Of Floor

One of the disadvantages of terrazzo is that the surface does not retain heat well during the winter months, making the floor feeling a tad cold. Unless you have a heat insulator beneath the terrazzo, this may cause discomfort to those who walk across the floor barefoot.

Contractors

Recommended Professional Installation

While some flooring types can be installed personally, terrazzo floors can be quite complex. One mistake could be costly. We recommend seeking a terrazzo installation company to do the work. You can find a list of professional terrazzo installers at NTMA.com. Each installer will be able to correctly install your floor.

There are many pros and cons of terrazzo, but the material is beneficial to those who want to factor durability and design into their floors. Concord Terrazzo Company supplies aggregates, manufactures precast terrazzo products, and produces epoxy resins as well. Like more information about terrazzo? Contact Concord Terrazzo Company today at info@terrazzco.com.

CUSTOM TERRAZZO

Learn how to customize a terrazzo floor with TERRAZZCO. Find out all the materials needed to complete your next project.

ARCHITECTURAL BINDER

Download our Architectural Binder for more information on terrazzo flooring and TERRAZZCO Brand Products.

CONTACT US

Have questions about terrazzo, speak with a TERRAZZCO representative. Our team of experts can offer solutions for your project.