Terrazzo is a composite material primarily used for flooring and wall treatments, but it's also been making an appearance in the world of furniture as an attractive and durable option. It is a versatile and sustainable choice that has regained popularity in the design world for its eco-friendly characteristics and unique aesthetic.
Composition Terrazzo consists of chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, or other suitable material, which are combined with a binder. The traditional binder was cement-based, but with advancements in technology, there are now also polymer (resin) based and epoxy-based binders.
- Cementitious Terrazzo: This is the traditional type made with a cement binder. It is porous and requires sealing to resist stains.
- Epoxy Terrazzo: A thinner set method that uses epoxy resin as the binder, which creates a more durable and less porous surface than cementitious terrazzo. It also provides more versatility when it comes to color choices.
Process The terrazzo is poured in place or precast. For poured in place terrazzo, the chips are sprinkled atop a wet binder, then rolled or pressed to level the surface, followed by curing. Precast terrazzo, on the other hand, is made in controlled conditions and then transported to the installation site. Once cured or set, the surface is ground and polished to a smooth finish that highlights the beauty of the embedded chips.
Use in Furniture As a furniture material, terrazzo offers several benefits:
