Natural Stone Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s some of the most frequently asked questions about natural stone:

What are the different types of natural stone.

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when sedimentary limestone is heated and compressed by natural rock-forming processes so that the grains recrystallise.  Marble is usually white or light coloured and is composed of crystals of calcite locked together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Marble can contain coloured streaks that are inclusions of non-calcite minerals.

Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock which forms when shells, sand, and mud are deposited at the bottom of oceans and lakes and over time solidify into rock. If you look closely at a limestone, you can usually see fossils and bits of shells held together by a calcite matrix. Limestone is more porous than marble, because there are small openings between the fossil fragments.

Granite

Granite is an igneous rock, formed when hot molten rock cools and solidifies, typically from volcanoes and from the earths crust. Granite is renowned for its hardness and durability.

Terrazzo Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s some of the most frequently asked questions about terrazzo:

 

What is terrazzo?

Terrazzo is a composite material typically made of marble, granite, quartz, or glass chips combined with a cementitious or epoxy binder. It’s renowned for its durability and versatility in flooring, countertops, and decorative surfaces.

 

What are the advantages of using terrazzo?

Durability: Terrazzo is highly durable, resistant to stains, scratches, and wear.

Design Flexibility: It offers endless design possibilities in terms of colour, pattern, and texture.

Low Maintenance: It’s relatively easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance.

Longevity: Properly installed and maintained terrazzo can last for decades.

Where is terrazzo commonly used?

Terrazzo is commonly used in commercial buildings, airports, schools, hospitals, and high-traffic areas due to its durability. It’s also popular in residential settings for flooring, countertops, and decorative elements.

 

What are the different types of terrazzo?

Terrazzo can be categorised into two main types:

Cement-based terrazzo: Consists of marble or stone chips in a cementitious mix.

Epoxy terrazzo: Uses epoxy resin as the binder, offering greater design flexibility and greater strength.

 

How is terrazzo installed?

Terrazzo tiles are installed in the same manor as natural stone. Typically using a two-part adhesive. Installation requires skilled professionals and should be sealed and maintained accordingly.

 

Is terrazzo environmentally friendly?

Terrazzo is considered environmentally friendly as it utilizes recycled materials like post-consumer glass, marble chips, and other aggregates. Additionally, its longevity and low maintenance contribute to sustainability.

 

How do I maintain terrazzo?

Regular cleaning with a neutral pH cleaner and periodic sealing are recommended for maintaining terrazzo. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.

 

Does terrazzo require sealing?

Yes, terrazzo should be sealed after installation to protect it from stains and moisture penetration. Sealing also enhances its appearance and durability.

 

Can terrazzo be customized?

Yes, terrazzo offers a high level of customisation in terms of colour, aggregate selection, and design. It can be tailored to suit specific aesthetic preferences and design requirements. At Love Stone we offer our carefully selected range of tiles, which should suit most requirements.

 

What is the cost of terrazzo?

The cost of terrazzo varies based on factors such as materials used, design complexity, installation method, and location. Generally, it falls within the mid price range for flooring and surfaces.