How to Make Your Terrazzo Floor Installation Succesful?
A lot of hard work goes into a terrazzo floor installation. To make sure a project goes smoothly, the entire team needs to be well-equipped to handle the entire process. For this blog, we will go over some of the tools used during the terrazzo process, the materials used to create the terrazzo mixture, and proper construction gear.
Safety Measures
When Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo arrives at a project site, we make sure health and safety is our utmost priority. To make sure we have a successful installation, we follow strict safety measures. The success comes from being able to offer a safe, clean and controlled environment for our installation team. For all projects, installers must wear hard hats, gloves, hearing protection, safety glasses, and high visibility clothing. At the construction site, it’s a good idea to post safety signs in case of emergencies. Also, we advise companies to train your employees on all machinery and guideline procedures to prevent fatal accidents.
Terrazzo Floor Preparation
Depending on the project, additional measures may be taken before the terrazzo can be added to the surface. One of the first steps of a terrazzo installation is shot blasting. Using a shot blaster, the machine strips off a layer of the concrete floor to help create a better bond with the terrazzo. In some cases, the floor may need a flexible membrane to cover cracks or fill material to level out the surface. But one of the most important steps of any terrazzo installation is checking the moisture level of the floor. Using a meter (you can get one from Wagner Meters, one of the standardized tools on the market), you will decide if a moisture mitigation system is needed to reduce moisture-related problems at the time of the installation and afterward.
Once the floor is properly inspected for any noticeable issues, it’s time to get creative. Installers will now set up the layout of the terrazzo design. For the most part, installers will need divider strips to divide any color separation in the flooring.
Terrazzo Mix
Ever wondered what goes into terrazzo? Terrazzo comprises of marble chips and epoxy. Using a mixture, an installer will carefully measure the amounts of aggregates needed for the design, topping of the mixture with a two-part epoxy system: Part A being the epoxy mix and Part B being a hardener. Together, the mixture binds together and poured in place to the surface.
Here is where shovels and wheelbarrows come in. After the terrazzo mixture completed churning in the mixer, the installer will transport the material to its exact location. Using a trowel, a small handheld tool, the installer will spread the mixture across the floor. Installers can add more aggregates to create an even distribution as well.
Now it’s time for some heavy machinery. A grinding machine will create a smooth texture to the surface, revealing the aesthetic beauty of the marble chips or recycled glass. Next, a polishing machine will give the floor it’s sleek and glossy appearance. Once the floor has been polished, a sealer is added to provide a protective cover. The sealer completes the project.
Not all terrazzo is poured in place. Installers can transport precast to the job site as well. Precast terrazzo can create many beautiful products such as stair treads, countertops, and wall panels. There is so much to do during the installation process, but the Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo team works diligently and safely to meet expectations.
Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo is a terrazzo contractor in Charlotte, North Carolina. If you seek professional installation help with a future commercial project, then Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo can offer its services to you. Please reach out to a Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo representative at (704) 921-4940 or info@doyledickersonterrazzo.com. When it comes to terrazzo, Doyle Dickerson Terrazzo is “Your Choice in Terrazzo.”
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