Like every surface material, terrazzo is more suitable for some scenarios than others. To make it slightly more complicated, there are two types of terrazzo that have different characteristics.
Resin Terrazzo
Diespeker’s resin terrazzo uses a combination of marble chippings (or other aggregate such as glass), pigments for colour, bound in the epoxy resin. It offers high levels of design flexibility.
Resin terrazzo is ideal for interior poured floors, as it ‘cures’ more quickly than cement terrazzo. It also offers a thin set profile so can be used in projects where this is a consideration.
Resin is a good choice for kitchen countertops although as with any kitchen surface, care must be taken particularly with regard to hot objects and spills.
It is not suitable for outdoor applications such as patio floors, concourses and outdoor kitchens as it does not react well to heat or UV rays. For these uses we recommend considering cement terrazzo.
Best for
- General interior flooring
- Bathroom floors
- Kitchen countertops
- Reception desks
- Cladding
Benefits
- Thin profile (potentially just 6 to 8mm for poured floors)
- Water resistance
- Glossy, vibrant finish
- Fast curing for poured floors
Cement Terrazzo
Diespeker’s cement terrazzo uses a cement based mix. Like resin terrazzo, the aggregate is most often marble chippings plus pigments.
Cement terrazzo is suitable for interior use but also for exterior applications and renovation projects.
It is a heavier material than resin terrazzo, so while this may limit some installation it does mean that it is robust for areas with heavy footfall including exterior concourses.
For poured floors there is a longer curing time before the surface can be ground and polished. During this time the floor cannot be used.
Best for
- Outside concourses
- Patio flooring
- Outdoor kitchen countertops
- Interior use where a classic look is preferred
Benefits
- Deeper tones
- Durability
- Weather resistant
Benefits of both
- Resin and cement terrazzo floors work well with underfloor heating
- Both can be made as a bespoke design by Diespeker
- Resin and cement can be used as tiles, poured in situ or using moulds in the factory
Alternatives
Diespeker also offers terrazzo-style porcelain tiles which are ideal for interior or exterior flooring, walls and cladding. These have a thin profile of just 10mm and as the design runs through the whole tile, the edges can be polished.
