Traditional Terrazzo Floor Tiles: On-Site Pouring vs. Factory Prefabrication
Traditional terrazzo floor tiles are made by mixing crushed stone, glass, quartz stone, and other aggregates into a cement binder to form concrete-based terrazzo. The surface is then ground and polished for a smooth finish.
There are two primary types of traditional terrazzo:
- On-Site Pouring Terrazzo
- Factory Prefabricated Terrazzo
1. On-Site Pouring Terrazzo
On-site poured terrazzo has a long history and requires skilled craftsmanship. The flooring is poured directly onto the site and polished in place. For large spaces, the area may be divided into sections, but within each section, the flooring is seamless and visually uniform.
Advantages
✔ Seamless Finish – No visible joints, creating a continuous, elegant look.
✔ Large-Area Formation – Poured as one continuous floor, ensuring no noticeable color variations in a single section.
✔ Stunning Mosaic Effects – Customizable for decorative and artistic designs.
Disadvantages
❌ Manual Process – Craftsmanship relies on handwork, which lacks the precision of machine-made terrazzo.
❌ Weaker Physical Properties – Unlike factory-made terrazzo, no high-frequency vibration or high-pressure compaction is applied.
❌ Uneven Surface – Self-leveling and manual polishing can result in minor waves or unevenness.
❌ Strict Construction Conditions – Requires a controlled environment; cross-working is prohibited.
❌ Extended Construction Time – Needs post-installation protection, delaying the overall project timeline.
❌ Not Suitable for Walls – On-site pouring is limited to flooring applications.
Common Issues with On-Site Pouring Terrazzo
⚠ Bonding Strength Issues – Aggregates may become loose or detach over time.
⚠ High Water Absorption – Susceptible to staining and moisture penetration.
⚠ Cracking Risks – Lower density and strength make it prone to cracks.
⚠ Difficult Repairs – Once damaged, restoring the terrazzo to its original state is challenging.
Conclusion
On-site poured terrazzo offers seamless aesthetics and custom design flexibility, making it ideal for high-end and artistic flooring projects. However, it requires skilled labor, has a longer construction time, and is prone to cracking and stains. Choosing between on-site terrazzo and factory-prefabricated terrazzo depends on the project's durability, efficiency, and design requirements.
