Terrazzo is becoming increasingly popular as a choice of flooring material these days. Made by embedding small pieces of glass, marble, granite and quartz in epoxy, it offers a smooth and visually appealing surface with a speckled look. Its aesthetic appeal and durability makes it a good choice, especially for commercial properties. So if you are wondering whether terrazzo will fit the bill in the case of your flooring needs, you are at the right place! In this article, we will discuss in depth the pros and cons of terrazzo flooring to help you make a more informed decision.
See also: VDF flooring advantages and disadvantages
Pros of terrazzo flooring
Durability
The composite nature of the material and the base of cement or epoxy creates a tough and resilient surface, making terrazzo one of the most durable and long-lasting options available in the market. It also displays exceptional resistance to scratches, impacts and wear from foot traffic and is therefore suitable for both residential and commercial properties. If properly maintained, terrazzo can even last for several decades without the need for replacement.
Low maintenance
Routine maintenance for terrazzo is simple – regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove loose debris and occasional mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner would suffice. Additionally, the maintenance can be made even easier by sealing the surface as it would add an extra layer of protection from stains and make cleaning spills a breeze. Terrazzo doesn’t really demand frequent deep cleaning or replacements.
Aesthetic variety
A highly customisable option, terrazzo allows for intricate designs, logos and patterns, thereby fulfilling your creative requirements in the best way possible. Not only does it offer you the flexibility to choose among various available options for the chips (glass, marble etc) and combine them with custom colours in the binding material, it is also available in various finishes like matte, polished and textures for added versatility.
Eco-friendly
Most terrazzo products utilise recycled materials or industrial byproducts for the chips, considerably reducing waste and resource consumption. Its longevity does away with the need for frequent replacements and proves helpful in minimising environmental impact in the long-run. Most contemporary property owners are increasingly opting for the epoxy-based variant instead of the traditional cement-based, due to the lower embodied energy in the former.
Seamless finish
A major reason behind the popularity of terrazzo flooring is the absence of grout lines that results in a smooth, unbroken surface that can enhance the perception of space. This becomes especially beneficial in the case of smaller rooms. The seamless finish does not allow dust or debris to settle and accumulate in the cracks, making regular cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
Hypoallergenic
The easy-to-clean quality of terrazzo doesn’t let allergens linger. The surface doesn’t harbour dust mites, mould or pet dander, supporting a cleaner indoor environment and making it an overall healthier choice for flooring, especially for people with respiratory sensitivities.
Cons of terrazzo flooring
Cost
The initial installation cost can be higher as compared to other flooring options like vinyl, laminate or tile, so it is recommended to budget accordingly if you might be considering it. Prices per square foot can further increase depending on the type of material and design complexity. Installation costs are inclusive of materials, labour and potentially the structural preparation of the subfloor to support terrazzo’s weight.
Complex installation
The installation process is long and complicated, requiring technical expertise. The process calls for precise mixing, pouring, curing and polishing that can lead to cracks or uneven surfaces if not executed correctly. It is a time consuming process that can be of inconvenience especially in the case of large or intricate designs and demand extension of project timelines.
Cold surface
Terrazzo does not boast of superior heat retention properties and tends to feel cold underfoot. This can be a problem in cooler climates and seasons, and in homes where comfort underfoot is a priority. While this problem can be mitigated with radiant floor heating systems, it will result in an increase in the initial installation costs.
Hardness
While the hardness gives the material its durable nature, it tends to feel uncomfortable during prolonged periods of standing and is unforgiving to falls. Therefore, it is not recommended for areas like kitchens or children’s playrooms. Additionally, it calls for careful handling of delicate items like the ones made of glass or ceramic as they are guaranteed to break if dropped on the floor.
Potential slipperiness
Immediately after polishing, terrazzo has this smooth and glossy surface that might become even more slippery if wet. To prevent this, there are anti-slip treatments like textured finishes that can be administered, but at the cost of the seamless aesthetic of the material.
Cracking risk
If the subfloor is not adequately prepared or the building experiences settling or significant temperature changes, the rigid terrazzo tends to crack over time. This can be minimised with the help of expansion joints and proper installation techniques, but repairs are often challenging and subject to the availability of the exact match of the original material.
FAQs
Is terrazzo flooring worth the cost?
If you value durability, longevity and aesthetics, terrazzo flooring is worth the investment as the long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective option.
Does terrazzo flooring crack easily?
Terrazzo tends to crack easily if the subfloor is not properly prepared or the building undergoes settling or exposure to significant temperature fluctuations.
How slippery is terrazzo flooring?
Polished terrazzo can be quite slippery, especially when wet and pose a significant safety risk and risk of spills.
Can terrazzo flooring be used in cold climates?
While you can use it in cold climates, it might feel uncomfortable cold underfoot and is not recommended if underfoot comfort is a priority.
Is terrazzo flooring eco-friendly?
Terrazzo flooring uses recycled materials and industrial byproducts and has a long lifespan that minimises waste and environmental impact in the long run.
How much maintenance does terrazzo require?
Minimal maintenance is sufficient. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner is all that is required.
What are the best areas for installing terrazzo flooring?
Terrazzo can withstand heavy foot traffic and has a seamless appearance, making it suitable for most residential and commercial applications.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
