What to Seal Terrazzo Flooring With
- Terrazzo flooring in some form has been used since Roman times. It is a composite of natural marble chips and other aggregate materials in a cement matrix. Epoxy and resin compounds are also used as a matrix. The look of the terrazzo is achieved by choosing certain sizes and colors of stones chips as well as by adding pigments to give it more color, according to the MarbleMaster website. Grinding the cement surface helps to expose the intricate colors and effects of the mixture of materials. It is a hard surface that is attractive, cost-effective, wears well and offers a hygienic easy-to-clean surface. It can be made to fit a wide variety of decorating styles. Terrazzo comes in individual tiles or as a solid surface.
- Terrazzo should be dusted daily to pick up dirt that acts as an abrasive on the surface. Newly-installed terrazzo should be washed twice a week for two to three months to remove construction dust in the air that will continue to settle on your new floor for some time. After the initial period, wash your terrazzo flooring weekly, and rinse carefully to remove soap residue that will create a slippery surface. Cleaning products recommended by your flooring manufacturer are the best choice for cleaning your terrazzo floors. Products must be labeled for use with terrazzo as other products may damage your flooring surface. Clean up spilled liquids immediately to avoid staining the surface.
- Terrazzo is a porous stone that will absorb liquids and other stains easily. A sealer compound fills in the pores of the stone, making it resist these stains. Both penetrating and surface sealers are available. Penetrating sealers react with the calcium to produce a shiny surface and must be applied annually, according to the PremFloor site. Surface sealers only sink partially into the surface with most remaining on the surface. These sealers only last for two to three months.
- Apply the terrazzo sealer according to the manufacturer's directions. The surface should be cleaned and free of dirt, grease and dust before sealing. Sealer can be applied with a roller, applicator pad or mop. Work across the floor, applying sealer in 12-by-12 inch sections. Two coats offer the best sealing. You should allow the first coat to dry thoroughly before applying the second coat. The floor should be ready for use in 24 hours.