Old Terrazzo Floors: Should You Restore or Replace Them?
Many older UAE buildings still have their original terrazzo floors, often hidden under wax, tiles or carpet. Owners often assume they need to rip them out, but terrazzo is one of the most repairable floors you can have. Here is how to decide whether yours is worth saving.
What terrazzo is
Terrazzo is made from chips of marble, granite or glass set in cement or epoxy. The mix is ground flat and polished. Because the chips run through the whole thickness of the floor, grinding reveals fresh surface rather than wearing it away.
That is why old terrazzo can look so good again.
Signs old terrazzo floors can be restored
Most floors are worth restoring if:
- The floor is solid and does not sound hollow.
- The cracks are few and small.
- The chips are still firmly in place.
- The damage is mostly dullness, stains or old wax.
Signs of a bigger problem
Think harder if you see:
- Large areas that sound hollow when tapped.
- Wide cracks that keep moving.
- Water damage from below.
- Big missing sections that would be hard to match.
Even then, restoring part of the floor may cost less than replacing all of it. The base beneath the floor is what matters most.
What restoration involves
- Remove old wax, glue or coatings.
- Repair cracks and holes with a matching filler.
- Grind the surface flat with diamond tools.
- Polish through finer grits.
- Seal the floor to protect it.
Grinding is wet, which keeps dust down, but it is still a big job. Plan for it as you would for other home repairs. See our terrazzo polishing service.
Will the colour match?
Old terrazzo has character, and small differences in repairs are normal. New filler can be matched closely, but it may not be perfect. Most owners find that this adds to the charm of an older floor. If you need a perfect match, talk about it before the work starts.
What about terrazzo under tiles?
Removing tiles can reveal terrazzo in good condition, but the adhesive can leave marks. Lift a small area first if you can. Our team can then tell you how much work the floor would need.
Costs to think about
Restoration prices depend on the area, the condition and the finish. When you compare it with replacement, count the removal, disposal, new floor and any change in door heights. We inspect the floor for free and give you a fixed price for the agreed work.
How to test a terrazzo floor
A few simple checks tell you a lot.
- Tap the floor with a broom handle or a coin. A dull, hollow sound can mean that it has come loose from its base.
- Look along the cracks. Fine hairline cracks are common, but wide ones need attention.
- Look for loose chips, especially at joints and edges.
- Scratch a hidden corner gently. If a yellow film comes off, the floor has been waxed.
- Wet a small area. It will show you the colours you can expect after polishing.
That last test is a good way to see the floor's potential before you decide.
Cement or epoxy terrazzo?
Most older UAE floors use cement. It is hard-wearing, but it is porous and it can stain, so sealing helps. Newer commercial floors may use epoxy, which is less porous but can be marked by heat and chemicals. The two types need different care, so identify yours before you buy any products.
Choosing a finish
Terrazzo can take a high shine, but it also looks good with a softer finish.
- High gloss suits lobbies and formal rooms.
- Satin hides wear better in family homes.
- A slip-resistant finish suits wet areas and ramps.
Choose based on how you use the space, not only how the floor looks in a photo.
Planning the work
Grinding uses heavy machines and water, so plan ahead.
- Clear the room, and protect any doors and built-in furniture.
- Tell the team if there are hidden pipes or cables in the floor.
- Think about skirting boards, which may need a touch-up afterwards.
- Allow time for the floor to dry before you seal it or move back in.
Older buildings can have thin floors in places, so a good company will check this before grinding.
Caring for restored terrazzo
- Sweep regularly to remove sand.
- Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner.
- Avoid acid cleaners, which can eat into the marble chips.
- Reseal when water starts to soak in.
Further reading: Terrazzo on Wikipedia.
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Frequently asked
Can you remove old wax from terrazzo?
Yes. Stripping the wax is often the first step, and many floors look much better straight away.
Is restored terrazzo slippery?
It can be slippery when wet, like any smooth floor. We can discuss the finish that suits the area.
Can cracks in terrazzo be repaired?
Yes. We fill small cracks with a matching filler. Moving cracks need a check of the base first.