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TERRAZZO

Derived from the Italian "terrace" or "terrazzo" and by definition over the centuries: "A form of mosaic flooring made by embedding small pieces of marble in mortar and polishing." Today, the definition of this traditional material has changed.

Terrazzo is a poured-in-place flooring system that combines one of various matrices with richly colored marble, granite, glass or other aggregate that, once hardened, is then ground and polished to unveil the natural beauty of the stone.

Traditionally, terrazzo has been specified for large, high-traffic areas where durability, longevity and minimal maintenance are critical factors.

The Lexington Library                             © David D. Laudadio

However, today's designers are discovering limitless color and design possibilities for this enduring material. With the imaginative use of divider strips and color combinations, logos, trademarks, geometrical designs and other configurations can become a permanent part of any building's interior design plan.

This virtually indestructible material is ideal for commercial, industrial and institutional applications. It withstands heavy traffic and with proper sealing, is resistant to water, chemicals, oil, grease, most acids and solvents.

With unlimited color palettes and through the use of complementary and contrasting matrix colors, terrazzo designs are only limited to one's imagination.

TYPES OF TERRAZZO FLOORING INSTALLATIONS

SAND CUSHION or UNBONDED TERRAZZO systems: Each divider strip performs as a control joint. Unless there is a requirement for expansion plates in the concrete substrate, no additional control joints are required.

BONDED TERRAZZO systems require control joints to be positioned over all breaks in the concrete slab to which the terrazzo is bonded. Divider strips are normally positioned six to eight feet on centers.

THIN-SET TERRAZZO systems, normally referred to as resinous, allow greater spacing between divider strips, normally ten to fifteen feet on centers, being a veneer-type system bonded to a concrete slab in most cases. Thus, its behavior will be wholly dependent on the slab movement. However, it is essential that strips be positioned directly over breaks in the substrate, such as construction or expansion-type joints. When considering the epoxy system with brass divider strips, consult the epoxy manufacturer for recommendations.

RUSTIC TERRAZZO systems are normally cementitious with various thicknesses. Divider strips or control joints are essential to the performance of the finished product. The position of the strips or joints, normally set at four to eight foot on centers, is wholly dependent on the thickness of the system. For exterior use, plastic and brass strips are recommended along with the use of a flexible sealant on all working joints, while non-working joints can be filled with a grout. (White alloy of zinc strips are not recommended for exterior use.)