Photo 1: Real terrazzo tiles in a bathroom add vibrancy to the space
What are terrazzo tiles?
If you're looking for a durable, low-maintenance floor, terrazzo tiles might be the right choice for you. Terrazzo is a type of flooring made from pieces of marble or granite set in concrete. Terrazzo tiles are strong and resistant to stains, scratches, and impacts. They are also easy to clean and maintain.
Terrazzo flooring has existed for centuries but is making a comeback in both business premises and commercial spaces, as well as in homes. Terrazzo tiles are also known as granito tiles. Traditionally, these floor or wall tiles are made from marble chips and cement.
Terrazzo is extremely durable and low-maintenance, making it ideal for high-traffic floors. It can also be made from recycled materials, making it a sustainable option.
Photo 2: Cross-section of different real terrazzo tiles
Everything you need to know before buying terrazzo tiles
Read what you need to consider before purchasing terrazzo tiles, also known as granito tiles. By taking the following into account, you can buy the perfect terrazzo tiles.
When it comes to terrazzo tiles, there are a few things to keep in mind before making a purchase.
Terrazzo tiles for floor or wall?
First, terrazzo tiles can be used for both floors and walls. So, make sure to ask if the tile you want to buy is suitable as a floor tile or a wall tile. This almost always has to do with the thickness of the tiles. Real terrazzo tiles suitable for floors are 3cm thick or thicker.
Real terrazzo tiles or imitation?
Secondly, authentic terrazzo tiles are made from marble, quartz, granite, or other natural stones. These natural stone chips are processed in cement and marble powder. There are also imitation terrazzo tiles. These are made of ceramic. Ceramic tiles with a Terrazzo look are also of good quality, but never look as beautiful as the real thing.
A selection from our collection of terrazzo-look ceramic tiles
Thickness of terrazzo tiles
Third, the thickness of the tile is important when you want to buy granito tiles. Authentic terrazzo tiles are usually about 3cm thick. This thickness is necessary for the tiles to accommodate whole pebbles. These natural stone pieces largely account for the strength and durability of the tiles. The thicker a terrazzo tile, the higher its quality.
New or used terrazzo tiles
Fourth, terrazzo tiles can be new or used. It is best to buy new terrazzo tiles because they are incredibly strong, perfectly smooth, and beautifully polished. Buying used terrazzo tiles is also a good option. However, pay close attention to cracks and whether the tiles have been re-polished.
Dimensions of terrazzo tiles
Sixth, the dimensions of the terrazzo tile are also important for recognizing real tiles. Authentic terrazzo tiles are usually square. The most common tile sizes are 30x30 cm terrazzo tiles and 40x40cm terrazzo tiles.
Are terrazzo tiles suitable for underfloor heating?
Not all granito tiles are suitable for underfloor heating. Ask about their quality and whether they are suitable for underfloor heating. The wrong Terrazzo tiles can crack.
Photo 3: Ultra modern kitchen with kit kat wall tiles and terrazzo tile floor
The pros and cons of terrazzo tiles
Terrazzo tiles are a type of floor tile that has been around for centuries. There are many advantages to using terrazzo tiles, but there are also some disadvantages.
One of the biggest advantages of terrazzo tiles is that they are very durable and, with proper care, will last more than a lifetime. In many cases, when using good quality terrazzo tiles, they even last for several centuries. Terrazzo tiles are also very easy to clean and maintain, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
Another advantage of terrazzo tiles is that they are available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can easily find a style that suits your interior.
Disadvantages of real Terrazzo + also discover terrazzo-look ceramic tiles
However, there are also some disadvantages to using terrazzo tiles. One of the biggest drawbacks is that they can be quite expensive, especially if you opt for real terrazzo tiles. Real terrazzo, due to the large pebbles it contains, is also difficult to cut to size. Feel free to check out our ceramic terrazzo-look tiles, these are dimensionally stable, colorfast, easier to cut to size, and more attractively priced than real terrazzo. They are printed ceramic tiles, technically a completely different process.
