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Benefits of Terrazzo

Author: Steve

Nov. 27, 2024

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Benefits of Terrazzo

Unlimited Architectural and Design Options

An unlimited color palette, and state of the art water jet cutting techniques create a visually stunning hospitality environment. Logos can easily be incorporated within the terrazzo floor. Color transitions and design can immediately impact guests by reinforcing a variety of themes or by offering navigational clues throughout the building. Terrazzo is anti-microbial, non-porous and easily cleanable with a damp mop and neutral cleaners leaving no harsh odors to irritate guests.

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Impact Design

Terrazzo can be used to create lasting first impressions while providing a long lasting durable and economical flooring surface. If your project needs color to make an impact, or requires a logo set into flooring, a terrazzo floor can make this possible without the need for grout joints. This can be vitally important in some facilities as it allows for smooth, quite handling of rolling carts, wheelchairs, gurneys, and luggage, while still providing design impact and creative energy.

Durability

Sustainable construction is at the core of green construc­tion. Terrazzo is arguably the most durable and lowest life-cycle-cost flooring available today, making it perfect for high traffic public access buildings such as airports, hospitals, government buildings, and schools. Terrazzo floors have an outstanding record of durabil­ity and performance dating back over a thousand years, and these floors will typically last the life of the structure. In older buildings, terrazzo floors can be restored to their original luster at a fraction of the cost of replacing the finish. They are even flood proof as we learned during our experience with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Low Maintenance and Low Cost

Terrazzo is arguably the most durable and lowest life-cycle-cost flooring available today, perfect for high-traffic public access buildings such as airports where surfaces are exposed to excessive wear. Both cement and thin set epoxy terrazzo floors have extremely low maintenance costs, and annual stripping and resealing can utilize environmentally friendly water-based products. Routine maintenance includes dry and damp mopping, with an occasional spray buffing. Damaged or worn terrazzo can usually be matched, repaired, and refurbished at a fraction of the cost of replacing the flooring.

Composition and Embodied Energy

Terrazzo is composed of naturally occurring aggregates, recycled glass or plastic and processed cement or epoxy binders. The binders constitute approximately 25 to 30 percent of the volume of the terrazzo floors; the remainder of the floor is composed of aggregates, pigments, and fillers. Initial life-cycle assessments of embodied energy appear ex­tremely favorable due to the longevity and low energy usage for maintenance.

Cleanliness + Maintenance

Both cement and epoxy terrazzo are ideal solutions for maintaining a healthy building. Unlike tile grout or carpet, terrazzo does not support microbial growth, nor does it allow moisture to accumulate ' which greatly contributes to a mold-free environment. Additionally, terrazzo is comprised of zero VOC materials, and exhibits little to no off-gassing over the life of the cured floor. Terrazzo flooring needs only to be cleaned with an environmentally friendly, neutral ph cleanser, which will not irritate sensitive eyes, lungs or noses.

Patients entering a healthcare facility are often in pain. Tiles, bricks, and other floors create bumpy joints that can make wheelchair or gurney transportation excruciating. These joints can also be difficult to navigate with a walker or crutches. Terrazzo's seamless finish provides a smooth, quiet ride or walk for patients.

Pros and Cons of Terrazzo Flooring

Terrazzo flooring is a versatile and durable flooring option that has been used for centuries. It is made by mixing small pieces of marble, granite, glass, or other aggregates into a cement or epoxy binder. The surface is ground and polished to create a smooth and visually appealing floor. Like any flooring material, terrazzo has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. We thought we'd share a few pros and cons that you'd want to consider.

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Pros of Terrazzo Flooring:

  1. Durability: Terrazzo is incredibly durable and can last for decades (or even centuries) with proper maintenance. It is resistant to wear, scratches, and stains.
  2. Low Maintenance: Terrazzo flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional wet mopping are usually sufficient to keep it clean.
  3. Versatility: Terrazzo offers a wide range of design possibilities. You can customize the mix of aggregates and the color of the binder to achieve a variety of looks, from classic to contemporary.
  4. Aesthetics: Terrazzo is known for its timeless beauty and can add an elegant and sophisticated look to any space. It has a unique, speckled appearance that can be quite striking.
  5. Environmentally Friendly: Terrazzo can be considered an eco-friendly option because it often uses recycled materials as aggregates, and it has a long lifespan, reducing the need for replacement.
  6. Hypoallergenic: Terrazzo is a solid and non-porous surface, which means it does not harbor allergens like dust mites, making it a good choice for individuals with allergies.

 

Cons of Terrazzo Flooring:

  1. Cost: Terrazzo can be expensive to install compared to some other flooring options. The cost depends on factors like the type of aggregates used and the complexity of the design.
  2. Installation Complexity: Installing terrazzo is a specialized skill that requires experienced craftsmen. Improper installation can result in cracks or other issues.
  3. Coldness: Terrazzo can feel cold underfoot, especially in colder climates. However, there is the option of adding radiant heating.
  4. Hardness: While its hardness is a benefit in terms of durability, it can be uncomfortable to stand or walk on for extended periods of time. For this reason, it's less ideal for spaces where people are on their feet for long hours.
  5. Susceptibility to Stains: While terrazzo is generally resistant to stains, some substances, especially acidic ones, can cause staining if not promptly cleaned.
  6. Requires Sealing: Terrazzo flooring needs to be sealed periodically to maintain its appearance and prevent staining. The frequency of sealing depends on the type of terrazzo and the level of foot traffic.

In summary, terrazzo flooring offers durability, low maintenance, and design versatility, but it can be costly to install and may feel cold and hard underfoot. When considering terrazzo for your flooring needs, it's important to weigh the pros and cons against your specific requirements and budget. Additionally, proper installation and maintenance are essential to maximize the benefits of terrazzo flooring.

 

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