Imperfections in Terrazzo Tiles

Good to know before ordering terrazzo tiles

When you look closely at terrazzo tiles, you may notice various imperfections. A stone chip may have come loose in the middle of a tile, or an edge may look slightly ragged. This can look like a manufacturing defect, but it is not. It is an inherent feature of a handmade terrazzo tile and should be considered normal.

The tiles are built up as follows: the base is made of white or coloured cement. The top layer is also made of this coloured cement, but with the addition of colourful stone, glass or marble chips. After the tiles have been cast in a mould, the top layer is polished to create the familiar terrazzo surface. Individual chips can come loose during polishing and when the mould is removed. Some cement may also stick to the mould, making the edges look ragged.

In the past, terrazzo floors were poured as a single surface, leaving hardly any visible joints. Imperfections were filled or concealed with cement. With the terrazzo tiles used today, grout takes over this filling function. Small holes and imperfections are filled and become watertight. The ragged edges also form a neat, even finish with a joint of just 2 mm. In other words, once the tiles have been grouted, the ragged edges will hardly be noticeable.

Tips: Preferably use a grout colour that does not contrast with the tiles, but is close to their base colour. This creates a neat, even finish. Use the less attractive tiles for cutting, or lay them along edges where you plan to fit a skirting board. This keeps waste to a minimum and gives you the best possible result!