Why In Situ Terrazzo is The Best Option for Commercial Flooring System?

Commercial flooring systems are quite different from residential floors. One of the primary differences lies in the amount of pressure that commercial floors have to take. Hence, when considering flooring options for commercial spaces, you have to take into account the footfall and the traffic.

If you are looking for commercial flooring materials which are not only chic and elegant, but durable and hard-wearing at the same time, you cannot go wrong with in situ terrazzo flooring. The greatest attraction of this flooring material is its visual appeal and robustness. Different from wood and stone finishes, in situ flooring adds a new dimension to commercial floors elevating the visual grandeur manifold.

Understanding In Situ Terrazzo Flooring

Before we go on to discuss the benefits of installing an in situ concrete floor, let us know about in situ terrazzo flooring in detail.

What is in situ terrazzo flooring?

The flooring technique of in situ terrazzo is pouring terrazzo on-site directly. There is no need to pre-casting it separately in a factory for tiles and slab creation. The main elements which go into the making of the terrazzo mix include pigments, marble chips, etc. The binder is either in the form of resin or cement. All the ingredients are mixed well together and then laid on the specified area. 

With this technique, large meterages are laid efficiently, minimizing the need for joints. If there are joints, they should be at the exact place as the slab under them. This minimises the chances of cracking the in situ flooring. 

In situ terrazzo is custom-made as the thing is poured onsite. Therefore, it is possible to design exactly as per project specifications. Creativity and design flexibility are two primary attributes that make these floors truly unique.

How In Situ Terrazzo Flooring is Installed?

In situ terrazzo flooring is a durable and visually appealing choice for commercial and residential spaces. The installation process involves several key steps:

1. Surface Preparation: The existing flooring is removed, and the concrete slab is inspected and repaired to ensure a stable base.

2. Moisture Testing: Testing the concrete’s moisture content is crucial, as high levels can affect adhesion.

3. Base Layer Application: A cementitious base layer is applied to create a smooth and level surface, providing a bonding agent for the terrazzo.

4. Mixing the Terrazzo Aggregate: Terrazzo aggregate, such as marble chips or quartz, is mixed with a binder (epoxy or cement) to create the terrazzo mixture.

5. Application: The terrazzo mix is poured and spread evenly over the base layer, ensuring uniform thickness.

6. Grinding and Polishing: After curing, the surface is ground to expose the aggregate, followed by polishing to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

7. Sealing: A high-quality sealer is applied to protect against stains and enhance the floor’s appearance.

8. Final Inspection: After curing, a final inspection ensures a flawless finish.

The meticulous installation of cast in situ terrazzo flooring provides an attractive, durable solution that can enhance the aesthetic of various settings.

Reasons why in situ terrazzo is a preferred option for commercial flooring

Along with flexibility and varied customization options, there are many more benefits of in situ flooring, particularly in commercial spaces. Some of them are:

1. An elegant flooring material

If you take a look at general terrazzo tiles and then at in situ terrazzo tiles, you will understand the difference at once. The immaculate smooth finishing of the floor needs special mention as in situ terrazzo tiles are simply seamless. They look flawless when you install this flooring in your commercial space since you will not find any gaps in the flooring. The design of in situ terrazzo flooring stands out because of this seamlessness which gives the entire space an elevated visual appeal.

2. Flexibility in design, colour and patterns

If you are looking to give your commercial flooring space a unique twist, there is no better alternative than an in situ concrete floor. This is because of the flexibility that these floorings offer. You have the option of choosing from a wide range of colour palettes as per your liking and preference. This flooring allows the designing of complex patterns, designs, and emblems as well, to easily sync with the theme of your commercial establishment. You can easily upscale the aesthetics of your establishment with this amazing flooring material.

3. High durability

One of the greatest advantages of in situ terrazzo flooring is its strength and durability. These floors might look different but they are as robust as ordinary terrazzo tiles. There are no chances of the flooring cracking or getting damaged even if there is heavy footfall traffic. In situ terrazzo floors are created in such a way that they can endure cold, heat, and moisture too, without inflicting any kind of floor damage. It is also scratch and crack-resistant when objects drop and fall on the floor.

4. Easy on maintenance

In situ flooring is extremely easy and simple to maintain and clean. For cleaning an in situ terrazzo floor, you can use any solution which is PH5-based or even plain water. In fact, these floors do not need regular cleaning, which not only helps in saving on resources and maintenance expenses considerably but also helps to make your space look clean and tidy even when there is heavy footfall traffic.

5. Safe for the environment

Presently, many commercial establishments look for environment-friendly options and this choice often applies to flooring materials used in the establishment too. In situ floors use recycled materials and hence, by establishing in situ terrazzo floors, there will be no harm to the environment since the materials used in the flooring are sustainable.

Also Read: Advantages of Seamless Epoxy Terrazzo in Commercial Developments

Comparing In Situ Terrazzo with Other Commercial Flooring Options

Aspect	In Situ Terrazzo	Vinyl Flooring	Carpet Flooring	Tile Flooring
Durability	Highly durable, resistant to wear, scratches, and cracks.	Moderate durability, prone to scratches and dents.	Less durable, can stain or wear out quickly.	Durable, but can crack under heavy impact.
Maintenance	Low maintenance; requires occasional polishing.	Easy to clean, but may need replacement over time.	High maintenance, requires regular cleaning and vacuuming.	Easy to clean but grout lines require maintenance.
Aesthetic Options	Customizable with various colors and designs.	Available in a variety of colors and patterns.	Limited in design, mainly solid colors and textures.	Available in numerous designs, colors, and patterns.
Cost	High initial cost due to installation and material.	Low to moderate cost.	Low cost, but may require frequent replacement.	Moderate to high cost depending on tile type.
Comfort	Hard surface; can be cold, but offers a smooth finish.	Soft and cushioned, more comfortable underfoot.	Soft, warm, and comfortable, especially for long periods.	Hard surface, but some tiles have cushioning.
Environmental Impact	Environmentally friendly; can incorporate recycled materials.	Made from synthetic materials; may not be eco-friendly.	Often made from synthetic fibers, not eco-friendly.	Can be eco-friendly, especially with natural materials.
Slip Resistance	Naturally slip-resistant when polished.	Generally slip-resistant, depending on the type.	Can be slippery when wet, especially if not maintained.	Slip resistance varies, especially with smooth finishes.
Installation Time	Longer installation time due to curing and polishing.	Quick and easy to install.	Quick installation but may require more frequent replacements.	Installation time varies depending on size and grout.
Longevity	Very long-lasting with proper maintenance.	Shorter lifespan compared to terrazzo.	Short lifespan, requires replacement every few years.	Long-lasting if properly maintained.

In Situ Terrazzo flooring stands out for its exceptional durability, customizable design, and low-maintenance benefits, making it a popular choice for high-traffic commercial spaces. Unlike vinyl or carpet flooring, which may require frequent replacement or intensive cleaning, terrazzo offers a long-lasting, seamless surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic, stains, and wear. While it has a higher initial installation cost and longer setup time, its overall value is reflected in its longevity and eco-friendly appeal. Other flooring options, like vinyl, carpet, and tile, each come with their own advantages and trade-offs in terms of cost, maintenance, and comfort, but they may not match the durability and aesthetic versatility that terrazzo provides.

Also Read: Advantages of Seamless Epoxy Terrazzo in Commercial Developments

Flooring it right!

Upscaling the flooring of any commercial establishment is quite a challenge. Along with keeping the aesthetic factor in mind, you must ensure that the flooring gels with the theme and the concept of the organisation. 

If you are looking for unique flooring solutions for your commercial space, look no further than in situ terrazzo flooring. Duphill Technical Solutions LLC is a company that deals with different kinds of flooring options for commercial and residential spaces. Contact our experts right away when you are planning to give your commercial space a special twist. Our professionals can help you decide on the best flooring option based on your requirements.

FAQs: Common Questions About In Situ Terrazzo Flooring

Q1. How thick is in situ terrazzo?

Ans: In situ terrazzo flooring typically ranges from 1/4 inch to 1 inch thick, depending on the specific application and design requirements. The thickness can be adjusted to suit the structural needs and aesthetic preferences of the project, ensuring a durable and visually appealing finish.

Q2. Where is in situ concrete used?

Ans: In situ concrete is commonly used in various applications, including flooring, foundations, and structural components in commercial buildings. Its versatility makes it ideal for creating durable surfaces in high-traffic areas, warehouses, retail spaces, and industrial facilities where strength and longevity are essential.

Q3. What are the advantages of in situ concrete?

Ans: In situ concrete offers several advantages, including high durability, design flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. It can be poured into any shape or size, providing seamless surfaces without joints. Additionally, it has excellent load-bearing capabilities and can withstand various environmental conditions, making it suitable for diverse applications.

Q4. What is in situ concrete floor?

Ans: An in situ concrete floor is a flooring system that is poured directly on-site, allowing for a custom fit and seamless finish. This method involves mixing concrete with aggregates and additives, then casting it in place to create a durable and long-lasting surface suitable for various applications.