Terrazzo options...a little late, but good for reference.

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There are more and better options for restoring terrazzo today than were available in the 1950's and 1960's...back when new terrazzo installations were at their peak in the residential market around the Metro-Orlando area. The traditional method of finishing or refinishing terrazzo is to first strip it, address any repairs, then re-seal with an acrylic sealer and apply an optional layer of high-gloss acrylic floor finish. Prior to the development of modern acrylics, wax was used to seal and finish the terrazzo.

Although this technique is still used today, there is a far superior process that not only transforms the terrazzo to take on a more granite-like appearance, but eliminates the need for stripping and sealing all together. The reason is because terrazzo can be ground and polished with diamond tooling equipment to yield an absolute smooth glossy finish that is completely natural. Naturally polished terrazzo simply looks better than terrazzo finished with acrylic, with the added benefit of minimal maintenance and a very durable finish that resists ordinary scratches from normal wear and tear.

I generally use an impregnating sealer after grinding and polishing terrazzo that is used to penetrate and protect the stone, leaving nothing on the surface.

Concerning patches...there are various options. If the terrazzo is going to be finished with an acrylic sealer, then either non-sanded grout or portland cement can be used. You can even replicate the stone flecks onto the patches with acrylic paint. The acrylic sealer will protect the paint from becoming chipped or damaged. Holes can also be repaired using actual terrazzo. Portland cement is a favored monochrome patching option because it's what is used to hold the marble, or aggregate, together. Yes, portland cement can be cured, ground and polished to an absolute shine...although it takes lots of practice to master.

I hope this section of information has been helpful to all that seek to bring back terrazzo... I can also share some photos upon request.