Marble or Terrazzo – Which Is Better?
Differences Between Terrazzo and Marble
Terrazzo and marble have long been favored building materials among architects, engineers, and designers. Although they are often mistakenly interchanged, they have distinct differences in several aspects.
Marble is a popular choice for sculpting and construction. It is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals like calcite and dolomite. As a natural stone, marble is commonly used in many buildings. Its sheen allows light to reflect beautifully off marble floors, creating a spacious illusion in smaller areas. However, marble floors generally cost more to install and maintain than terrazzo. They require regular polishing and maintenance to prevent dullness, and they are more susceptible to scratching and staining.
Terrazzo, on the other hand, is a poured-in-place or precast composite material used for flooring, wall applications, and custom-made objects. It is made from remnants or chips of various materials such as marble, quartz, granite, and glass, combined with a cementitious or resin binder. Once mixed, it is poured onto the surface. Metal strips are often incorporated to separate colors, patterns, or materials. After curing, the surface is ground and polished to achieve a smooth finish. Terrazzo floors are stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and slip-resistant.
So, which material is better? Let’s take a closer look at a few features of these two construction materials.
Design Range
Terrazzo offers a wider range of design possibilities compared to any other building material, including marble, particularly in terms of color combinations and applications. The possibilities with terrazzo are nearly limitless. While both terrazzo and marble are considered attractive, terrazzo holds an advantage due to its variety.
Longevity and Sustainability
When comparing terrazzo to marble in terms of durability and strength, the decision is straightforward: terrazzo is a more durable option. It can last up to 75 years with minimal maintenance, thanks to its toughness. Although terrazzo is often thinner than marble, it surpasses marble in strength and durability. Marble, on the other hand, is prone to chipping at the edges, making repairs both difficult and expensive. Once a marble floor is damaged, it is nearly impossible to restore it properly, rendering the restoration process not cost-effective.
Flexibility
Terrazzo can be molded into any shape, allowing for maximum design creativity. In contrast, marble’s rigidity limits it to specific shapes.
Environmentally Ideal
Terrazzo is made from recycled materials, making it the more environmentally friendly choice compared to marble. As a composite material, terrazzo helps conserve the Earth’s natural resources. It contains no volatile organic compounds, which contributes to better air quality. Conversely, marble is a limited resource and has a significant carbon footprint associated with its manufacturing.
Maintenance
Terrazzo is resistant to bacteria and chemicals, while marble is prone to staining, making it harder to clean. Removing stains from marble often requires specialized cleaning solutions. In contrast, cleaning a terrazzo floor only requires a mop, warm water, and a neutral pH detergent.
While both terrazzo and marble are popular building materials for various reasons, terrazzo has a clear advantage over marble. For quality, longevity, and stunning aesthetics without spending excessively, terrazzo is the obvious choice. Many building and design experts agree that terrazzo adds value to both residential and commercial properties, whether used for interior or exterior applications.
It is important to note that marble has been a cherished building material for millennia, appreciated for its beauty, style, and elegance. It has adorned the palaces of kings and queens for centuries, making it an upscale and luxurious option for interiors. However, marble is a temperamental stone that requires careful installation and ongoing maintenance. Compared to other types of flooring, marble flooring demands more upkeep and is more susceptible to damage.