Questions You Should Know about terrazzo slab collections

Questions You Should Know about Terrazzo Slab Collections

Terrazzo slab collections, a material historically rooted in Italian artisanship, have evolved dramatically over the years. Modern terrazzo is a testament to both tradition and innovation, offering a versatile and eco-friendly option for a wide range of applications. According to a Google search, "Terrazzo floors are highly durable and low maintenance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as schools, airports, and hospitals." This article delves into frequently asked questions about terrazzo, covering everything from installation to maintenance and creative uses.

Basic Steps to Installing Terrazzo Floors

To install a terrazzo floor, one must follow a few fundamental steps, which include surface preparation, mixing the components, troweling, grinding, polishing, and sealing. Proper surface preparation ensures a strong bond between the substrate and the terrazzo. Installers often use specialized products like the TERRAZZCO Moisture Mitigation System MMS 950, Flexible Membrane 528, and Leveling Fill to aid in this process.

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Once the surface is prepped, the design layout is formed by cutting and placing divider strips. Epoxy terrazzo involves combining part A epoxy resin with part B epoxy hardener, along with approximately 200 pounds of aggregates and marble dust. This mixture is then poured into place and spread evenly using a hand trowel.

Afterward, grinding creates a smooth and refined appearance. Any pinholes left are filled with epoxy grout of the same color, ensuring a uniform and non-porous surface. Polishing enhances the vividness of the epoxy colors and aggregates, adding a final protective sealer to complete the installation.

The Origin and Evolution of Terrazzo

Legend has it that terrazzo first appeared in Italy around 600 years ago when quarry workers used marble offcuts for their own floors, setting them into mortar. Over the centuries, terrazzo has evolved from rough, uneven surfaces to highly polished, colorful designs.

Terrazzo Production Methods

There are three main terrazzo production processes: mechanically made, hand-cast, and poured in situ. Traditional cement-based terrazzo has been joined by resin (or epoxy) based terrazzo, providing even more options for designers.

Mechanically Made Terrazzo

Our Italian partners produce thick, compressed sheets of terrazzo, which are then sliced thinly and cut into tiles. Mechanically made terrazzo is perfect for larger projects requiring consistency.

Hand-Cast Terrazzo

Traditional hand casting allows for bespoke terrazzo designs. This labor-intensive process ensures consistency in mix and color. After the mixture is laid, it is rolled, troweled, and left to harden before being cut, ground, and polished.

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Poured Terrazzo

Cement or resin-based terrazzo is often poured on site to create seamless floors. The resulting surface is ground and polished for a beautiful finish. Cement is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, while resin is generally used indoors due to its flexibility.

Creative Applications of Terrazzo

Diverse Uses

• Flooring – practical and creative
• Countertops in bars, restaurants, and kitchens
• Plinths for retail displays
• Wall and counter cladding
• Unique staircases for offices, shops, and homes
• Unusual furniture items
• Wet rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens with proper sealing
• Art installations

Why Terrazzo is a Sustainable Choice

Terrazzo's longevity and sustainability make it an eco-friendly option. Diespeker, a leader in terrazzo craftsmanship, can refurbish existing installations to reduce waste. For example, at Charing Cross Station, worn terrazzo tiles were repaired rather than replaced, saving resources and reducing environmental impact. In a London office renovation, over 120 terrazzo stairs were restored to their original glory.

Cement-Based vs. Resin-Based Terrazzo

• Cement offers a classic appearance and proven longevity
• Cement is often less expensive than resin
• Resin brings out brighter colors and smoother finishes
• Resin is less prone to cracking and crazing
• Resin is ideal for thin-set floors

Best of Both Worlds

Combining resin and cement-based terrazzo provides the advantages of both materials. Recent projects include creating curved resin skirting and matching vertical and horizontal surfaces seamlessly.

Maintenance Tips for Terrazzo

Maintaining terrazzo is similar to caring for marble or granite. Regular cleaning with a chemical solution or nylon scrub pads will keep the surface pristine. Terrazzo should be well-sealed for water resistance. A restored terrazzo floor may require a full regrind and re-polish. For instance, Diespeker recently restored a terrazzo floor over 100 years old, revitalizing it to near-original condition.

Why Choose Diespeker for Terrazzo

Diespeker is synonymous with terrazzo thanks to decades of expertise and innovative techniques. The company offers bespoke samples and consultations to help clients find the perfect design. Diespeker’s commitment to pushing boundaries, such as bending resin terrazzo for curved countertops, sets them apart from the competition.

The company is the world’s best terrazzo slab collections supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.