Terrazzo: Resin vs Cement

The origins of Terrazzo are attributed to the 15th century when Italians used scrub marble fragments from the palaces in Venice and from the quarries in the area and placed them in clay mortar for the flooring of their terraces (“terrazzo”).
Ever since, it has become a highly sought-after finish for both commercial and residential flooring, large or small.

Today, Terrazzo is used for a wider range of applications, from flooring to wall cladding, from countertops to furniture. Regardless of the application, there are 2 types of terrazzo, depending on the bonding agent: resin and cement. With these two options to consider when selecting your terrazzo finish, what is the difference?

Cement Terrazzo
A cement-based binder is traditionally white or grey, with colour built up through the addition of its stone aggregates, often resulting in earthy aesthetics in the background. Today, pigments can be added to the mix to achieve a wider variety of colours, although the selection is quite limited and usually within the light and pastel tones.

Cement Terrazzo is extremely durable: one example for all, the Terrazzo tiles at George Washington’s house in the USA are still intact after 280 years. With that said, regular sealing is required to guard it against staining. Because of its durability and composition, cement can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications – whilst resin is prone to UV damage.

Cement Terrazzo contains low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), promoting healthier indoor air quality, and is filled with recycled aggregates, making it one of the most eco-sustainable materials.

2. Resin Terrazzo
Resin binders are available in a wider and brighter range of shades, allowing for more flexibility in design and colour choices. Resin Terrazzo is highly resistant to heavy footfall and stains. The resin binder and sealer create a less porous finish than its cementitious alternative, making it easier to clean and maintain.

The resin's lighter weight makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of applications that need to factor in weight limits. Because of its lightness, it would also produce less carbon footprint in transportation.

Both cementitious and resin Terrazzo are durable and will offer over 25 years of service with appropriate maintenance. This minimises the need for frequent significant repairs—or even rip-out and replacement—and reduces the volume of materials sent to landfills.

So whether your project is big or small, commercial or residential, traditional or contemporary, we hope this guide will help you make informed decisions. If you require further information, please don't hesitate to contact us.