This preferent flooring and surface cloth brook the test of time .

Jacob Fox

The Word of God terrazzo comes from “ terra , ” which is Latin for ground . This ancientness - inspired material gives an artisanal feel to home inside . Terrazzo is a composite textile made with marble , granite , glass , or crystal chips set into cement . Its antecedent start in Egyptian mosaic , but it became democratic in 16th one C Italy to make use of stone offcuts . It is either poured by paw or precast into blocks that get cut to size . eating place and hotels often use this long-wearing fabric in expectant traffic areas , like bars and lobbies , but it also can be absolutely placed in a residential home .

terrazzo samples

Credit:Jacob Fox

Terrazzo is a popular selection for floor , rampart , and accent piece , like tables , backsplashes , and outdoor terrace aerofoil . It come in multiple color and design , which can be purchased as ready - made tiles . If properly sealed for piddle resistance , it can be applied to any sphere of your house , including the toilet and kitchen . There are many reasons to fall in love with terrazzo ; it is durable , attractive , and affordable . in general loud thangranite and marble , it can be an eye - catching choice that does n’t break the camber .

Types of Terrazzo

Terrazzo induction is called a system because it includes multiple layered materials , which ultimately set the heaviness , weight , and color of the product . For floor , the system choice is important to regulate the desired weighting and style for your space . Here are some plebeian terrazzo organization :

Terrazzo Tiles Installation

For bombastic aerofoil and intricate excogitation , it is best to go with a professional terrazzo installerto ensure the job is done correctly . As an alternative for the handy , installing terrazzo tiles can be a rewarding project . The adopt instructions provide basic guidelines for install terrazzo flooring .

1. Measure Area

First , evaluate the spacewhere you need to install terrazzo tile . Multiply the length by the breadth to calculate the area of the space . Get enough tiles for the region and a few extra to report for cut or design preferences .

2. Prepare Surface

Remove any previous floor . You might need a leveling chemical compound if the surface need to be flush first . see to it a clean and grade surface , smooth enough for the terrazzo flooring .

3. Adhere Tiles

Apply a coating of adhesive to the surface andlay the tile neatly .

4. Complete Terrazzo Flooring

Once you place the tile , press them firm so that they are countersink . Repeat this process to make out the terrazzo coldcock in your desire sphere . Wait for two to three days after the installation , then grout the articulation and fill in the spread . Lastly , coating and seal off the level with a body of water - base or permanent sealer .

John Granen

Terrazzo Maintenance Considerations

Terrazzo is easy to keep . If right installed , it is naturally durable and has a long lifetime . But , like any fabric , it is still susceptible to crack , smear , and blemishes over metre . Use coasters and potholder on terrazzo countertops where moisture and dark stains could soak into the surface .

To make clean terrazzo base , sweep oar , mop , and vacuum-clean oftentimes . Use a cleaning solution with a neutral pH counterbalance to off any smirch or streaks .   Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic solutions that could damage the terrazzo .   Buff with a mild fabric to restore shine .

How Much Does Terrazzo Cost?

The price of terrazzo varies based on many factors . Terrazzo tiles usually cost under $ 12 per square foot , but with lying-in and installation , that cost can double .   rain cats and dogs terrazzo flooring is less than $ 15 for the same solid footage , but the labor and installation can be less than $ 35 per substantial foundation establish on the material , location , and trouble of the work .

Unless you ’re a flooring pro , it is likely serious to go with a professional flooring expert to ensure that every part of your terrazzo system is correctly in place . However , for smallerDIY projects like backsplashes , table , and terrazzo decor , there are many DIY tutorials available online to get revolutionize .

Paul Dyer

kitchen modern terrazzo floors

Credit:Emily Followill

Is Terrazzo Flooring Worth It?

Terrazzo is democratic because its value to terms is outsized . It also create a long - lasting first feeling . However , it does have drawback . It does n’t hold heat well , so this can make for cold winters .   If you have terrazzo in a historic home , it is possible that it hold asbestos . If the flooring set about to devolve or crack , assay professional help to remove or repair it .

Lastly , terrazzo is build for a lifespan , so verify you really love it before trust to this cloth . If you guess you ’ll want to change your style soon , believe the meter and cost of remove terrazzo or sustain professionals come in to repose new manufactured flooring atop the terrazzo .   Try terrazzo in a small orbit first if timid before construct a permanent decision that could be dearly-won to revoke .

terrazzo floors white hallway

Credit:Emily Followill

terrazzo floor kitchen office modern style

Credit:John Granen

close up of terrazzo flooring

Credit:Paul Dyer