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There are different types of terrazzo systems that can be installed today. We’ll go over these terrazzo systems briefly and determine which terrazzo system is superior to the rest.
Terrazzo is, according to the Oxford Dictionary, a flooring material consisting of chips of marble or granite set in concrete and polished to give a smooth surface.
There are two primary matrices, or materials used to compose terrazzo. They are cement and epoxy resin.
Let’s take a closer look at the types of terrazzo systems available today.
Sand Cushion Terrazzo
This system is composed using a half inch cement matrix topping. It consists of a sand dusting, an isolation membrane, a wire reinforcement, and an underbed. It requires a 2.5 or 3-inch depressed slab.
Bonded Terrazzo
This system is composed using a half inch cement matrix topping. An underbed made of sand and cement bonds with the concrete slab. The terrazzo is poured on top. Requires the concrete slab to be depressed 1.75 inches.
Monolithic Terrazzo
This system is composed using a half inch cement matrix topping. It consists solely of the bonding agent and the terrazzo topping.
Rustic Terrazzo
This system is composed using a non-ground, textured cement matrix topping. This system can be combined with bonded and monolithic systems. It requires a two-inch depressed slab. It is classified by its distinct textured surface.
Thin-Set Epoxy Terrazzo
This system is composed using a 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch resin-based matrix topping. It can be specified with glass, synthetic, or granite aggregates in addition to marble. This system is well known for its brilliant colors and durability.
Which Terrazzo System Should You Choose?
So which matrix and system is right for you? well, it really depends on your circumstances.
Is your project a renovation or new construction? If it’s a renovation, was terrazzo flooring originally installed? What kind? If there was no terrazzo, is the slab depressed or not? These are just a few of the questions you’ll need to answer to determine which system will be the best fit for you. We recommend consulting your terrazzo installer; they’ll know exactly what to do. Don’t have a terrazzo installer? We’d love to do it for you! Send Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo an email at info@doyledickersonterrazzo.com or give us a call at 704-921-4940, or find us on social media.
