19 Jan Difference between Terrazzo and Polished Concrete
Terrazzo vs Polished Concrete: Key Difference Explained
Terrazzo and polished concrete are both durable, low-maintenance flooring systems. However, they differ fundamentally in composition, design flexibility, lifecycle costs, and performance. Terrazzo is aggregate-dominant (70% chip density in the matrix), while polished concrete is cement-dominant (70% cement to 30% aggregate) and relies on grinding and densifying an existing slab.
Although the two materials share similar features, it may be hard to distinguish one from another. TERRAZZCO® will highlight the main differences and provide a brief overview of each material.
Differences between Terrazzo and Polished Concrete
The primary difference is what the floor is made of and how it is created.
- Terrazzo is a composite material. Aggregates are embedded into an epoxy or cement binder, poured as a new surface, then ground and polished.
- Polished concrete is a process applied to an existing concrete slab. The slab itself is mechanically ground, densified with chemcials, and polished to a reflective finish.
Polished concrete originated out of terrazzo and polishing technology but mostly relies on chemical dyes and densifiers. Terrazzo was formed in the 15th century when Venetian mosaic workers used marble scraps to create flooring for their terraces. Another difference involves polishing. Polished concrete involves polishing the slab itself. In contrast, terrazzo involves covering the concrete slab with epoxy and aggregate, and then grind and polished to a finish.
How Do Terrazzo and Polished Concrete Compare? (Side-by-Side)
| Attribute | Terrazzo | Polished Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 70% aggregate, 30% binder | ~70% cement matrix, ~30% aggregate |
| Design Flexability | Unlimited: custom colors, logos, inlays, patterns | Limited: dyes and stains only |
| Thickness | 3/8" (epoxy) | No added thickness; polish on existing slab |
| Slip Resistance | High | High |
| Light Reflectivity | High | High |
| Lifecycle Costs | Lowest among durable flooring over 40+ year | Low, but repairs are limited to refinishing |
| Repairability | Patchable with matching materials | Difficult to repair without visible transitions |
| Common applications | Schools, airports, hospitals, offices | Warehouses, gyms, restaurants, retail |
Overview of Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite flooring that uses either cement or epoxy resin as a binder, into which aggregates are cast, then ground and polished. Terrazzo has experienced a resurgence in the architectural and design communities in recent years, as it offers strong qualities in both form and function.
Epoxy terrazzo (the dominant commercial system today) is poured at 3/8″ thickness, bonds directly to the substrate, and achieves a seamless surface. It’s a thinset, lightweight, and design-flexible system.
Cementitious terrazzo uses a Portland cement matrix and is poured thicker. It’s considered the traditional terrazzo system.
What are Terrazzo’s Performance Properties?
- Durability: Terrazzo floors in commercial settings have been in service for decades without needing replacement.
- Design Range: Any color, aggregate blend, custom logo, or geometric inlay is achievable using waterjet cut divider strips.
- Sustainability: Recycled glass aggregates contribute to LEED MR credits; epoxy systems carry zero VOC content, contributing to LEED EQ credits.
- Lifecycle Cost: Higher upfront installation cost than polished concrete, but total cost of ownership over 40 years is lower than carpet, VCT, and most hard flooring alternatives due to near-zero maintenance requirements.
Where is Terrazzo Specified?
Terrazzo is standard in K-12 schools, universities, airports, hospitals, government buildings, transit facilities, and corporate headquarters.
Overview of Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a mechanical finishing process applied to an existing concrete slab. Diamond-abrasive tooling grinds the surface progressively finer than a chemical densifier is applied to harden the surface before final polishing. The existing slab is the floor.
What are Polished Concrete’s Performance Properties?
- Slip Resistance: Among the highest of any flooring system.
- Light Reflectivity: A Class 3 or 4 polish achieves a mirror-like reflectivity, measurably reducing lighting energy requirements in large-format commercial spaces.
- Low Maintenance: Periodic burnishing maintains the finish
- Sustainability: No new materials consumed, existing slab reused
Where is Polished Concrete Specified?
Polished concrete is common in warehouses, distribution centers, commercial garages, retail stores, restaurants, fitness facilities, and industrial spaces.
Value for Architects and Designers
Terrazzo delivers high design prestige and portfolio differentiation for architects and designers. No two projects are alike. Terrazzo is trusted for its long-lasting results and consistent, seamless finish.
Polished concrete is considered for its practicality and cost discipline, qualities valued in facility management, industrial, and retail contexts.
However, terrazzo is considered best-in-class for its reduced lifecycle cost. Polished concrete, while durable, has more risk tied to slab quality, and repairs can be inconsistent.
Concord Terrazzo Company is a terrazzo contractor. With TERRAZZCO® Brand Products, we offer innovative and environmentally-friendly terrazzo products to the world. For more information about terrazzo and its features, please reach out to us at info@terrazzco.com.