When choosing a material to style an outdoor space, we usually think of stone, wood and concrete, but if you want to stand out, consider terrazzo. This material being no less durable than stone is much more affordable and can be much more eye-catchy. Here are some pros and cons of terrazzo to consider.
Advantages Of Terrazzo
Durability
Terrazzo is super strong. Once it’s sealed right, it won’t get damaged by water or stains. Unlike other materials, it won’t peel off. Many architects use terrazzo because it can handle lots of foot traffic, making it great for busy buildings. Even if it wears out over time, you can polish it to look new again. It doesn’t need much maintenance and lasts a long time, which makes it a good deal.
A large contemporary terrace with terrazzo walls and floor, a white corner sofa, a coffee table and lots of greenery.
A geometrically shaped terrazzo path surrounded with grasses, greenery and blooms.
Neutral terrazzo is a creative material for a yard or garden paths, add greenery and glasses to line it up.
A back porch styled with grey terrazzo tiles, with an upholstered seat, a table and some metal chairs is adorable.
Such bright terrazzo tiles will make the space more eye-catchy, and here they echo with the orange pillows of the chairs.
Dark grey terrazzo covering the floor, creating an edge and a space for a built-in bench is an ultimate idea for a modern space.
Beautiful Design
Terrazzo is made of marble, granite, quartz, or glass pieces mixed with epoxy resin. This mix allows you to pick almost any design for your project. You can mix different types of aggregates to create a unique look that fits your personal style or project requirements. Architects can add cool patterns, logos, and other designs when installing terrazzo.
Such dark terrazzo will lighten up with time cause of sun damage, and it will make the patio look a bit different.
Grey terrazzo tiles match the little deck to compose a stylish modern space.
Such greige terrazzo looks bold and eye-catching and orange chips in it are complemented with chairs and red cushions.
Such whimsical polka dot terrazzo will look very unusual and eye-catchy in any modern outdoor space.
Light grey terrazzo tiles remind of stone but are much more affordable.
If your indoor space seamlessly flow into an outdoor one, consider making the same floors for an even more invisible transition.
A large deck clad with grey terrazzo, with contemporary furniture, is a cool space.
Make eye-catchy garden steps using large scale terrazzo tiles and surround the steps with lush greenery for a chic look.
Low Maintenance
Terrazzo is easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually enough to keep it looking great. It doesn’t need special cleaners, which saves time and money. Terrazzo floors can last for decades, even in high-traffic areas.
Eco-Friendliness
Terrazzo uses recycled materials, which is good for the environment and people’s health. It’s a sustainable and safe choice, making it a great alternative to other floors. Designers like terrazzo not just for its strength and looks, but also because it’s eco-friendly and helps make buildings greener.
The minimalist pool space features a white terrazzo deck, a wood slab wall with a built-in bench and some pillows.
Terrazzo in natural tones reminds of stone but looks more eye-catchy and brings more pattern to the space.
Neutral grey terrazzo can be a nice alternative to stone and usual concrete giving more interest to the porch, terrace or yard.
White terrazzo tiles can be used throughout all your outdoor spaces for a stylish and durable floor in each nook.
A grey terrazzo floor, a black bench, a woven mat and some plants create a textural and modern look in this outdoor corner.
Make the whole outdoor kitchen using terrazzo, go for not only floors or walls but compose the cabients of terrazzo, too, and they will be very durable.
Outdoor Use
You can use terrazzo both inside and outside. You’ll see it in busy areas like halls, corridors, and stairs. Because it’s waterproof and stain-resistant, it’s also good for countertops, showers, bathtubs, and pools. Terrazzo works well anywhere, fitting different styles.
Choosing the same floor cover the an indoor-outdoor space is essential as it makes the transition between the parts more seamless.
Dark grey terrazzo contrasts the white furniture and stained coffee table and also the green lawn byt its side.
A pool deck of terrazzo won't be as slippery or expensive as a stone one, and it will make your contemporary space cooler.
Neutral terrazzo with warm coloring will give your outdoor spaces a warmer touch, which is great for non-sunny locations.
Stone-like terrazzo is widely used indoors and outdoors, and not only on the floor but also on the walls and to make furniture.
A modern terrace with a playfull floor or grey terrazzo and pink tiles, some greenery and simple wooden dining furniture.
Disadvantages Of Terrazzo
High Price
Terrazzo saves money in the long run because it’s durable and low-maintenance. But the upfront cost is higher compared to cheaper materials. If you’re on a tight budget, terrazzo might not be the best choice. It’s also trickier to install than some other floors, so you might need to hire a pro, which adds to the cost.
A white facade, grey furniture and a grey terrazzo floor compose a cohesive and monochromatic space with plenty of style.
Driveways can be also made of terrazzo, such a space will be durable, affordable and will look cool.
A large contemporary terrace with a grey terrazzo floor, a fire pit, a corner sofa with pillows and greenery around.
Make a terrazzo tile path accenting it with green groundcovers, and attention to your paths is guaranteed!.
A sophisticated minimalist entrance with grey terrazzo, greenery and grasses is elegant, chic and ultimate.
A stylish house entrance made using neutral terrazzo and terrazzo steps for a match, much greenery and a tree look modern and natural.
A white terrazzo path looks amazing, and gravel on both sides echoes with the pattern of the walkway.
Slipperiness
When wet, terrazzo can be quite slippery, which might be a safety concern, especially in areas like bathrooms or around pools. It’s important to consider this if you plan to use it in wet areas.
Weight
Terrazzo is heavier than some other flooring materials, which means it might not be suitable for all types of areas.
Cold Nature
Terrazzo can feel cold in chilly weather because it doesn’t hold heat well. Without insulation underneath, it might be uncomfortable to walk on barefoot.
Building a pool deck of terrazzo has always been a good idea, suitable for modern, contemporary and minimalist sapces.
Grey terrazo steps with large chips surrrounded with greenery and a hedge for a chic and modern look.
A large terrace clad with white terrazzo, with seating furniture, potted plans and a coffee table.
A stylish white terrazzo pool deck done with white planters and greenery are a cool and catchy idea for outdoors.
A large terrace clad with white terrazzo tiles, with modern furniture, potted plants and outdoor lamps.
Terrazzo is great to make a pool deck, it's less expensive and slippery than stone and looks cool.
Such elegant white terrazzo resembles of stone textures giving a luxurious touch to the space.
Use terrazzo to create outdoor flooring, and apply it even to the railing, if you want, terrazzo is suitable for every surface.
Terrazzo is a versatile and durable material that can enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its beautiful design options and long lifespan make it a great choice for many projects. While it has some cons, like higher initial costs and potential slipperiness, its benefits often outweigh these drawbacks. So, what do you think? Would you choose terrazzo for your terrace or patio?