Terrazzo is a composite made up of a combination of cementitious binder and polymeric, which is mixed with granite, marble, quartz, glass, or other materials. Have you ever heard of a little thing called the Hollywood Walk of Fame? That right there is terrazzo in action. Get Quotes Instantly from Local Flooring ProsĮven though it was first introduced to residents of the United States in the late 1890s, it only became popular in the 30 years to follow thanks to the invention of the electric grinding machine and divider strips. With roots tracing back as far as the ancient mosaics of Egypt, the terrazzo flooring we all know and love of today comes from 18th century Venice. While you may have only recently encountered dreamy-looking interiors finished off with terrazzo flooring, it has been around for quite some time and its popularity ebbs and flows. You can use it in any room of your home or even outside in areas like patios, walkways, and pools. (I’ll be explaining this term below.) It can weigh up to 50% less than other materials, so it is an ideal option for multi-story buildings. Other than the above, there are no real precautions you need to take when installing terrazzo floor tiles or pouring it in situ. You should also avoid using all-purpose sealers or general surface waxes to ensure your floor doesn’t stay slippery for too long after a polish. If you have young children at home or if you’re planning to install a terrazzo floor in a high-traffic area, you may want to consider throwing down a rug or runner until the slipperiness subsides. It is also worth noting that terrazzo flooring that has been recently installed or polished tends to be quite slippery.
Unfortunately, this is not a DIY-friendly floor solution and instead requires professional installation. Now that you have seen for yourself just how stunning terrazzo flooring can look, you probably can’t wait to get your hands on some for your own home, right? But before you go ahead, you need to know that installing terrazzo flooring is no breeze. These cracks can be quite difficult to deal with, as you will note further down in my FAQ section, and as such, professional installation is recommended.
Have you been wanting to add a bit of Italian flair to your home, but aren’t sure how to go about doing this in a way that is subtle, sophisticated, and oh-so stylish? I come bearing good news: a terrazzo floor may just be what your home needs.