Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite material commonly used in flooring applications, but also for wall surfaces, gardens, finishing panels and so on. It is derived from the Latin word ‘terra’, meaning ground.
Terrazzo is traditionally constructed by exposed chips of hard materials set in a surface of concrete or epoxy resin, polished until it is smooth. The chips are typically marble, quartz, glass, granite and so on.
Terrazzo can be poured in place, with additional chips sprinkled on top before the mix sets. It may include metal strips to divide sections or colour/pattern changes. After curing, a uniformly textured surface is achieved using a grinder, with slight depressions filled with a matching grout material, hand-trowelled before the whole surface is cleaned, polished and sealed.
It can be also be precast and applied as tiles or panels.
Terrazzo originates from Venetian construction, where it was a low-cost flooring material formed using scrap marble. In the 1920's the development of powered equipment such as grinders allowed more widespread terrazzo production.
Thin-set, epoxy terrazzo was introduced in the 1970s and has the advantage of allowing a wider selection of colours, and being much thinner, lighter and stronger. However, it is generally only used for interior applications as it tends to lose its colour outside.
Terrazzo is often used as floor tiling in public buildings due to its long-lasting qualities and its ability to be refinished when required. It can achieve a very wide array of aesthetics depending on the chips that are embedded, with almost any design or colour being possible. Once sealed, terrazzo is impervious to water and staining and is resistant to chipping unlike other tile materials. However, it can be quite slippery which creates a risk of falls. Additives can be included to make it more slip-resistant.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).