The National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association
The highest standards and procedures in the terrazzo industry
The National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association (NTMA) is a renowned nonprofit trade association comprised of 148 members. The organization is headquartered in Fredericksburg, Texas, USA, and operates with the core objective of establishing and maintaining international standards for terrazzo systems for floor and vertical applications. The NTMA is dedicated to promoting the use of terrazzo and mosaic systems in buildings across the world, and it does so by providing technical support, education, and professional development to its members. Through its activities, the NTMA ensures that terrazzo and mosaic systems meet the highest quality standards and adhere to industry best practices.
In addition, the association also conducts research and development activities to explore new and innovative ways to use these materials in architecture, design, and construction.
Terrazzo and NTMA’s mission
Terrazzo is a high-quality building material that has its origins in 15th-century Italy. It was developed as a creative solution by Venetian marble workers who discovered a way to repurpose discarded stone chips. This sustainable building system evolved from the mosaic artistry of ancient Rome and has since become one of the world’s most popular and durable flooring options.
Terrazzo is made by pouring a mixture of marble, granite, quartz, or other aggregates, often sourced locally, into a cement or epoxy base. After the mixture has been set, it is then ground and polished to reveal the embedded aggregates, resulting in a smooth and shiny surface. This process can be done on-site by skilled artisans who pour the terrazzo by hand or through precast elements made in workshops.
One of the most significant benefits of terrazzo is its design flexibility. The range of colors, patterns, and finishes available is virtually limitless, making it an ideal choice for architects, interior designers, and property owners. Moreover, terrazzo is incredibly durable, easy to maintain, and can last the life of the building. It resists scratches, stains, and wear and tear, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
The National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association (NTMA) is an organization that promotes quality craftsmanship and creativity in terrazzo while supporting its members in their trade and service to the construction industry. The NTMA offers a full range of free services that extend to architects, interior designers, artists, general contractors, maintenance professionals, and property owners. From helping the design community write specifications to providing technical assistance at any project stage, the NTMA’s goal is to help ensure quality terrazzo installations.
NTMA Job of the Year
Terrazzo is a type of flooring that has been used for centuries, and it is still highly sought-after today. The National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association (NTMA) is a professional association that promotes the use of terrazzo in construction and recognizes the best terrazzo installations through its annual Honor Award program.
One of the most prestigious awards in the terrazzo industry is the Job of the Year award, which is given to the best project from a pool of 15 international terrazzo projects that have been evaluated by members of the NTMA judging process. This award is highly coveted and is considered a testament to the quality of a contractor’s work.
The NTMA Honor Award program is the most significant recognition for terrazzo contractors. It promotes member contractors as the only qualified resource for terrazzo installations that meet the highest industry standards. Each year, terrazzo veterans and design professionals evaluate submitted entries based on design, craftsmanship, and scope. The judging process is completely unbiased and is conducted by a group of experienced terrazzo industry veterans and design professionals.
VIA.ZZO – a Romanian brand
One of the newest members of the NTMA is VIA.ZZO, a Romanian brand owned by Aragon Grup.
VIA.ZZO has over 22 years of experience in the terrazzo industry, and its membership in the NTMA (besides Canada) is a true testament to the company’s passion for the art of terrazzo. Since joining in 2020, VIA.ZZO has been proud to stand alongside the NTMA Honor Awards winners each year, showcasing the beauty and versatility of terrazzo.
NTMA is committed to offering technical assistance and promoting sustainability to ensure top-tier terrazzo installations that bring architects’ and other stakeholders’ dreams to life. With its dedication to promoting the use of terrazzo and recognizing excellence in the industry, the NTMA is a valuable resource for anyone interested in this unique and beautiful flooring material.
To learn more about terrazzo and ntma, check out viazzo.ro and ntma.com