Terazzo Countertops

The Terazzo Countertop has a cement matrix with an additive. Terrazzo is a durable alternative to natural stone countertops. It is made from a mixture of stone chips, glass and metal bound with cement and polished smooth. These 1.5" terrazzo counters are a blend of Portland cement, marble, beach rock, brass and copper shavings. Terrazzo is cured, ground and polished. A smooth or uniformly textured surface brings out the artistry and sheen of the product. Terazzo is very beautiful, durable and can be cleaned. It can be assumed that even a very heavy use it can last as long as the building lasts. It is available in standard or custom colors.

Different Terrazzo Systems

The Epoxy System consists of a " or 3/8" thick resin matrix layer placed upon a level concrete slab. Glass, Synthetic or granite aggregates are added in place of marble to deliver brilliant colors or chemical resistance. The different advantages are unlimited matrix colors, resiliency, chemical resistance and tensile-compressive strengths. Its low weight and flexibility make it optimum for multi-storey use. Due to its non-absorbancy it has low maintenance cost. The Polyacrylate system consists of a 3/8" thick polymer mixed with a cement matrix layer placed on a concrete slab. Polymer is responsible for providing strength to allow for thin applications. These can be installed quickly and have a moderate price range. These are good to use in areas where there is moisture vapor transmission. The Monolithic system consists of 0.5" thick cement matrix layer placed upon a concrete slab. This is dependent on the concrete characteristic for flatness and crack prevention. This can be installed quickly and is the most economical.

Application of Terazzo

Such countertops for kitchens, bar rooms and other locations are the most popular choices in interior design. As concrete can be molded into any form, designers have May options for countertop shapes and edge details. Those who want to remodel their kitchens, desire to match an existing color scheme. This can be achieved only by custom-tinted concrete. These countertops may be adorned with carvings, inscriptions, embedded artifacts and personal mememtos. Some manufacturers mix an variety of colored glass and concrete and then polishes the surface down to " to show speckles of shine and color. The Bonded system consists of a cement matrix and underbed system for inside and outside areas where circumstances need 1-1.25" of recessed depth to be filled as an appendix to the 0.5" terrazzo topping. Due to the sand-cement underbed it has less dependence on the concrete slab for flatness.