How Terrazzo Flooring Contributes to LEED Certification for Eco-Friendly Buildings

 Terrazzo Flooring is a durable flooring material that is typically poured in situ (meaning it is installed on the site of installation) or pre-made as floor tiles. It is highly customizable and can incorporate a wide variety of aggregates including glass, marble, granite and porcelain. It can also include recycled materials to achieve a green construction goal. It's a beautiful option for commercial or public spaces that needs to be visually appealing and can withstand heavy traffic.

Hospitals, and hotels

Some of the most iconic buildings in the world have terrazzo floors, from George Washington’s Mt. Vernon home, to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. It’s also found in many other important places such as airports, hospitals, and hotels.

 Require harsh chemicals for cleaning

Unlike tile floors, terrazzo is anti-microbial and doesn’t require harsh chemicals for cleaning. It’s also non-porous so it doesn’t attract dirt, dust, and germs. The incredibly hardy surface is easy to clean with just a mop and water. And since it is poured, it allows for limitless color options making it perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind floor for any space.

 Durability and flexibility

Its durability and flexibility make it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas that are frequently accessed by people in wheelchairs or on gurneys. Its seamless surface provides patients with a smooth ride and quiet walk, which helps to ease their discomfort. Its limitless color palette can also help reinforce a brand’s culture and identity, allowing for the incorporation of logos and other elements into the flooring.

 Restaurants, and hotels

As the popularity of terrazzo continues to rise, designers are using it more and more in trendy bars, restaurants, and hotels around the globe. Its vivid colors create a striking hospitality space that is visually exciting to guests and customers, while also being incredibly durable. The floors at the Ace Hotel in New Orleans, the tables at Kava Cafe in New York’s Meatpacking District, and the coworking spaces at the Wing all feature terrazzo.

 Terrazzo floors are long-lasting and look

The cost of a terrazzo floor depends on the amount of decorative aggregate used, as well as whether the floor is designed to be exposed or covered by a sealant. It can be more expensive than a tile floor due to the additional costs of divider strips, metal expansion joints and epoxy coatings. It also depends on the type of terrazzo: a sand cushion system requires a slab of concrete with a sand layer, while thin-set or monolithic Terrazzo Flooring is laid directly over the existing concrete subfloor. The installation process can also affect pricing as sand-cushion systems are more labor intensive than epoxy systems. It’s best to consult with a professional installer to determine what installation method is right for your project. Their expertise will ensure your terrazzo floors are long-lasting and look amazing for years to come.