How to Install Terrazzo Floor

Terrazzo is a kind of composite tile made up of marble chips and concrete that is mixed together to create a smooth, beautiful flooring or countertop material that can be used in all kinds of buildings.

While an affordable option to replicate the beauty of marble, terrazzo floor tiles are becoming rare due to a decline in usage.

The inconvenience arises from the on-site manufacturing process, contributing to the diminishing popularity of terrazzo.

But for its lovers, here is an easy-to-follow terrazzo flooring installation process:

Shot blasting

This is a procedure meant to remove the top layer of loose concrete to help reinforce a strong bond between the concrete and the terrazzo.

Once this is done, installers are required to check the concrete surface for any cracking, which must be sealed immediately.

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Besides adding a crack suppression system, the installers will check for any moisture-related issues in the flooring.

A moisture mitigation system can be used to seal pores as it builds a thin layer over the surface. It is also important to check and fix the floor levels that are out of tolerance.

Layout designing

At this point, the installers will create a plan detailing how the floor will look like. This is done by cutting the divider strips to separate colours and to control expansion joints.

The divider strips are also a great way to an intricate design to your floor.

Mixing terrazzo

With the floor layout firmly in place, the installers can now proceed to make the terrazzo mixture. Based on specifications, the installers are required to measure components and create the material using mixing equipment.

This is a critical stage in the terrazzo flooring installation process.

Pouring the terrazzo

After the terrazzo mix is created with a Part A epoxy and Part B hardener, the installers can now add the epoxy to the flooring surface.

Using a towel, the installers will then spread the mix across the membrane.

At this point, the installers are required to evenly distribute additional aggregates such as recycled glass and marble chips over the floor surface. The floor will then be left to cure.

Grinding and grouting terrazzo

Once the terrazzo floor has cured, it is now time to use a grinding machine to smooth out the terrazzo floor.

Installers will at this point apply a grout mixture to remove any existing pin holes – in a process known as grouting.

Polishing of terrazzo floor

To conclude the terrazzo flooring installation process, installers apply some polish over the floor to give it a shine. They also apply a sealant to give the floor some additional protection.

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