In this edition of Terrazzo Techniques, we will look at renovating restrooms to install new epoxy terrazzo floors or refinishing existing terrazzo floors. Please watch the terrazzo installation video below, with images provided by one of our project managers. It showcases one of Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo’s recent restroom renovations.
Modern Bathrooms Today
Modern restroom designs are focusing on creating an inviting and relaxing experience for occupants. To meet this goal, public restrooms must be attractive, durable and easy to maintain.
People use public restrooms around the clock; therefore, it is essential to include a low maintenance flooring surface such as epoxy terrazzo that is easy to clean and keeps the space looking neat and tidy. With epoxy terrazzo’s design aesthetics, the flooring material can combine with cost-effective fixtures and accessories to create a warm-look environment. Other elements that can elevate the restroom design include good lighting and touch-free technology.
One alarming issue associated with older restroom designs is the growth of mold. Mold can eventually enter the interior of materials, leaving behind foul odors. As a result, the space declines in overall air quality. Epoxy terrazzo is a non-porous flooring system that is completely antimicrobial, preventing bacteria to multiply and spread to other areas of the room. Another benefit of adding epoxy terrazzo to a public restroom design is its low content of volatile organic compounds, promoting higher indoor air quality.
Adding Epoxy Terrazzo Flooring
Before adding an epoxy terrazzo floor to any area, inspect the space. In the video, one of the imposing challenges was adding a terrazzo cove base around toilet pipes. This is just some of the obstacles that you may face when installing terrazzo in a restroom area. For the flooring surface, contact your local terrazzo contractor to learn more about a moisture mitigation system. Because restrooms are susceptible to water spillage, a moisture mitigation system will be beneficial during the lifetime of the floor. A moisture mitigation system will create a barrier against moisture vapor transmissions.
Once an installer finalizes the floor layout, the terrazzo installers can begin pouring the terrazzo mix. The terrazzo installers will grind and polish the terrazzo surface, finishing the floor with a sealer.
Refinishing Terrazzo Floors
The National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association recommends cleaning a terrazzo floor with a damp mop. However, it is also recommended to reapply the sealer of a terrazzo floor.
Chemical Stripper
When periodic sealing is needed, use a chemical stripper to remove the existing sealer and any finished coats from the surface. Ask your local terrazzo contractor for a suggested chemical stripper to use. Also, follow the manufacturer’s written instructions on how to apply the chemical stripper.
During this process, you want to make sure you keep the surface wet while the material reacts to the floor to remove the existing sealer.
Buff the Floor
After the chemical stripper has been applied and settled, an installer can use either a floor buffer with a white pad, a damp mop, or an auto scrubber to go over the terrazzo surface. Once the surface has been cleaned and dried, you may notice a difference in the terrazzo floor. Because an installer strips away the sealer from the floor, you will notice that the floor has lost its sheen and will have more a dull appearance.
Once the sealer has been removed, go over the terrazzo surface with a damp mop using clean water. Wait until the surface is completely dry before applying the new sealer.
Reapply Sealer
Use a solvent-based sealer, applying in multiple coats with a microfiber applicator (two coats likely for restroom flooring due to the porosity of the surface). Once the sealer is dry, the terrazzo surface will create a glossy finish.
By applying a sealer occasionally, you can protect the terrazzo floor from any acidic staining, especially around toilet areas.
Check out an earlier blog, “Terrazzo Restroom Installations“, to see how epoxy terrazzo can transform public restrooms.
Considering adding terrazzo to a commercial restroom or residential bathroom? Ask you local terrazzo contractor about the benefits of adding epoxy terrazzo and what it takes to keep the space clean overtime. Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo is a terrazzo flooring installer in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a member of the National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association, we have installed terrazzo throughout the Southern United States. Have questions? Give us a call at (704) 921-4940 or email us at info@doyledickersonterrazzo.com. When it comes to terrazzo, Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo is “Your Choice in Terrazzo.”
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