Terrazzo is a composite material traditionally featuring a medley of marble chips. It’s a durable flooring option that has seen a major resurgence this year.
This speckled trend has been spotted everywhere from airports to hotels and even on home decor items like these terrazzo-inspired lamps by Anthropologie! But what makes terrazzo so popular?
Eco-Friendly
With a focus on sustainability and design flexibility, terrazzo can be found in many different types of architecture projects. From bright clothing stores like ‘The Webster’ to sober law firm working spaces, it adapts to the space and creates a flooring that enhances the interior atmosphere.
Eco-friendly terrazzo uses recycled materials to create a durable and attractive surface that requires little maintenance. It can be poured over existing concrete or in new construction and can be molded into any shape. It also requires no waxing or chemicals to keep it clean and shiny.
Cement-based terrazzo systems are comprised of zero VOC materials and use rapidly renewable aggregates. This helps meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards while reducing the embodied energy of the project. In addition, divider strips and sealers are typically made of recycled material and can contribute to LEED certification credits.
Durable
Terrazzo is a long-lasting floor material that stands the test of time and doesn’t require extensive cleaning. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and high levels of wear and tear, making it ideal for commercial-use facilities.
Terrazzo also uses recycled materials in its aggregates and on-site manufacturing, ensuring that nothing is wasted. This makes it a sustainable option that will save a business money on flooring.
In addition, terrazzo floors don’t need to be polished regularly, which saves on labor costs and extends the lifespan of the tiles. Regular sweeping and mopping with a neutral cleaner will prevent dirt build-up and staining.
Terrazzo tile is a beautiful flooring choice that can be installed in many different styles and patterns. However, it is important to remember that terrazzo can be slippery and may not be the best choice for families with children or elders. In these cases, a non-slip additive can be added to the surface.
Versatile
Terrazzo tiles offer a unique look that can complement any design style. In addition, they are more durable than their stone and ceramic competitors. When sealed properly, they are impervious to water and stain damage and will not chip like other tile materials. This type of flooring is also highly versatile because it can be re-finished and polished to look like new tile.
Another benefit of terrazzo is that it can be mixed with many different aggregates. These can include marble, granite, quartz, glass and shells. These aggregates can be pigmented, which provides limitless color options. Contemporary terrazzo designers are even pushing the boundaries of what aggregates can be used and creating bold designs that feature extra large chips.
Besides being a great option for floors, terrazzo can also be poured into molds to create furniture and homeware. This makes it a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners who are looking for a stylish and durable alternative to other popular flooring options. It can even contribute to LEED points for sustainable building projects.
Affordable
You may have seen speckled floors in hotels, restaurants and airports – but you probably didn’t know it was terrazzo. This retro design is making a comeback, and it’s perfect for contemporary homes. You can use a wide variety of colors and aggregate materials to achieve a unique look. You can also choose between monolithic and bonded terrazzo. A professional terrazzo installer can help you decide which type is best for your space.
The price of terrazzo tile flooring depends on the aggregate material and color choice. Smaller aggregates like glass are less expensive than marble chips. However, if you want a more luxurious look with larger chips of marble or mother-of-pearl, the cost will be higher. This is especially true if you choose to incorporate divider strips to create different areas with various color choices. Another drawback of terrazzo is that it’s cold and hard, so you may need to install underfloor heating. Also, it can crack if it’s not installed properly.
