A step-by-step guide to creating beautiful and durable terrazzo floors
The first step involves shot blasting the concrete substrate to create a rough surface profile. This ensures proper bonding between the concrete and terrazzo mixture. The process removes surface contamination and creates the ideal foundation for terrazzo installation.
After shot blasting, any cracks or imperfections in the concrete are repaired. Anti-fracture membranes may be installed to prevent crack transmission. The surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the next phase.
Divider strips are installed according to the approved design pattern. These strips separate different colors of terrazzo and control cracking. The layout is carefully measured and marked to ensure precise pattern execution.
The terrazzo mixture, consisting of marble chips, cement, or epoxy resin, is poured into the sections created by the divider strips. Each color is poured separately and troweled to ensure even distribution and proper thickness.
Once the terrazzo has cured, heavy-duty grinding machines with progressively finer diamond abrasives are used to level the surface and expose the aggregate. This process reveals the beautiful pattern of marble chips within the matrix.
After initial grinding, a cement grout is applied to fill any small voids or pinholes in the surface. This ensures a smooth, uniform appearance and strengthens the floor's durability.
The floor undergoes fine grinding with increasingly finer grits to achieve the desired level of shine. This process brings out the natural beauty of the aggregates and creates a smooth, glossy finish.
The final step involves applying a penetrating sealer to protect the terrazzo from stains and enhance its appearance. The sealer also makes the floor easier to maintain and extends its lifespan.