Architects and interior designers around the globe continue to be fascinated by the versatility and aesthetic appeal of terrazzo flooring. A staple of the design industry, terrazzo flooring companies have been consistently innovating, offering a beautiful blend of durability and elegance. This winning combination is what makes terrazzo a repeat choice as a flooring system in various architectural and interior design projects.
In the following blog post, we delve into why this timeless material remains a favorite pick among professionals in the industry.
What is Terrazzo and Why Architects and Interior Designers Love it
Terrazzo is a composite material traditionally composed of marble chips mixed with cement. Its unique blend offers an elegant, timeless look with high durability. The process of terrazzo flooring installation involves a sequence of steps, handled by skilled terrazzo installers. Here are a few reasons why architects and interior designers prefer terrazzo:
- Versatility: Terrazzo can be customized in virtually unlimited colors and designs, fitting into any architectural or interior design vision.
- Durability: Terrazzo floors are renowned for their long-lasting nature, capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: Once the terrazzo installation is done, the flooring requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for various settings.
- Eco-Friendly: Terrazzo flooring can be created using recycled materials, making it an eco-conscious choice for sustainable building projects.
- Value for Money: Despite the initial cost of terrazzo flooring installation, the long-term benefits due to its durability and low maintenance needs provide excellent value for money.
These attributes have kept terrazzo flooring at the forefront of preferred materials for architects and interior designers.
Benefits of Choosing Terrazzo as Flooring
Choosing Terrazzo as a flooring system is advantageous not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its cost-effectiveness over time. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Terrazzo floors do not trap allergens, contributing to improved indoor air quality, which can be particularly beneficial in public buildings or homes with allergy sufferers.
- Design Flexibility: The design possibilities with terrazzo are virtually limitless. It can be poured into different patterns and shapes, allowing designers to create unique, customized flooring designs.
- Resilience: Terrazzo is resistant to water, stains, and damage from everyday use, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
- Sustainability: Terrazzo can contribute to LEED points, as it is made from recycled materials and can itself be recycled at the end of its lifespan.
With all these benefits combined, it’s no surprise that architects and interior designers continue to choose terrazzo as their go-to flooring material.
Different Types of Terrazzo Floors
- Epoxy Terrazzo: This is a modern twist on the traditional terrazzo and is known for its durability and diverse color selections. Epoxy terrazzo is typically used in interior applications due to its high durability and ability to incorporate any design.
- Venetian Terrazzo: Venetian terrazzo is characterized by its large marble, granite, or glass chips in a variety of colors. This type of terrazzo is known for its unique texture and visual appeal.
- Rustic Terrazzo: Rustic terrazzo, also known as Palladiana, uses larger, irregularly shaped marble pieces to give a more natural, rustic look. It is often used in outdoor settings due to its robustness.
- Sand Cushion Terrazzo: This is a traditional style with layers of cement and a sand cushion layer for enhanced flexibility. It is commonly used in settings where structural movements are expected.
- Monolithic Terrazzo: This type of terrazzo is directly applied to a concrete base. Though the design options are more limited, it is highly cost-effective and quick to install.
How to Care for Terrazzo Floors
Caring for terrazzo floors is relatively simple and straightforward. Here are some key steps to keep in mind:
- Regular Cleaning: It is important to keep the terrazzo surface clean from dust and grit. Regular sweeping or dust mopping can help maintain the floor’s shine and prevent scratching or dulling of the surface.
- Prompt Spill Cleanup: Any spills should be cleaned immediately to prevent staining. Especially for light-colored terrazzo, spillages of coffee, wine, or other staining liquids can leave marks if not cleaned promptly.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Terrazzo should be cleaned with neutral cleaners that are specifically designed for this type of flooring. Avoid using acidic or alkaline cleaning agents such as vinegar or bleach, as they can etch the surface of the terrazzo and dull its shine.
- Periodic Professional Sealing: Although terrazzo is durable, it is recommended to have it professionally sealed every few years. This will provide an extra layer of protection and maintain the vibrant colors of the terrazzo.
- Polishing: If scratches or dull spots begin to appear, the terrazzo floor can be polished to restore its shine. This should be done by a professional to avoid further damage.
By following these steps, your terrazzo floor can remain beautiful and durable for many years to come.
Cost Factors When Installing a Terrazzo Floor
- Material Cost: The price of terrazzo itself varies based on whether it’s made of marble, glass, or other materials.
- Installation Cost: The cost of labor for installation can depend on the complexity of the design and the region where you live.
- Size of the Area: The bigger the area, the higher the cost due to the increased amount of material and labor required.
- Condition of the Existing Floor: If the existing floor needs to be repaired or prepped, this can add to the overall cost.
- Sealing and Finish: The price can also increase depending on the type of sealant and finish you choose for your floor.
- Maintenance Cost: While terrazzo is relatively low maintenance, periodic professional cleaning and sealing can add to the total cost over the life of the floor.
Andreola Terrazzo & Restoration, Inc
At Andreola Terrazzo & Restoration, Inc., we are more than just one of the leading terrazzo flooring installation companies; we are a team of dedicated professionals committed to preserving the art and beauty of terrazzo flooring. With decades of experience, we have distinguished ourselves as expert terrazzo installers, offering premium solutions for both new installations and restorations.
Our team is equipped with profound knowledge and skills in the terrazzo industry, ensuring that we always deliver top-quality service and results. Trust us with your terrazzo needs, and we’ll make your flooring as beautiful and timeless as the art of terrazzo itself.
So, whether you’re a commercial property owner looking to restore your terrazzo flooring or considering terrazzo for new installations, Andreola Terrazzo & Restoration, Inc. is your go-to source for all things terrazzo. Contact us today and let’s discuss how we can help bring out the best in your flooring.
