5 Common Mistakes with Terrazzo
5 Common Mistakes with Terrazzo
Terrazzo contains marble chips in a cement or resin matrix. It combines the vulnerabilities of marble with the porosity of cement. Most mistakes come from forgetting the marble component.
Mistake #1
Using acid-based cleaners
Why this is a problem
The marble chips in terrazzo react with acid exactly like solid marble - they etch and lose their polish. But because terrazzo has hundreds of chips, the damage creates a uniformly dull, rough surface.
How to fix it
Light etching can be polished out with Lithofin MN Polishing Cream. Widespread damage needs machine grinding and re-polishing.
Prevention
Use pH-neutral cleaners only. Lithofin MN Wash & Clean is safe for all terrazzo types.
Mistake #2
Applying standard floor wax
Why this is a problem
Modern terrazzo is meant to be polished, not waxed. Wax builds up in the texture around chips, yellows under UV light, and creates a sticky surface that traps dirt.
How to fix it
Strip wax with Lithofin Wax-Off. Multiple applications are usually needed for heavy buildup. Re-polish if needed.
Prevention
Maintain terrazzo with Lithofin MN Wash & Clean only. If you want extra protection, use Lithofin MN Stain-Stop (penetrating, invisible).
Mistake #3
Not sealing cement-based terrazzo
Why this is a problem
Cement terrazzo is porous between the marble chips. Without sealing, spills penetrate the cement matrix and create stains that sit between and around the decorative chips.
How to fix it
Deep clean with Lithofin MN Power-Clean, let dry, then seal with Lithofin MN Stain-Stop.
Prevention
Seal cement terrazzo after installation and every 3-5 years thereafter.
Mistake #4
Steam cleaning old terrazzo
Why this is a problem
Older terrazzo (pre-1970s) often contains asbestos fibres in the matrix. Steam and aggressive cleaning can release these fibres. Even without asbestos, steam can loosen the bond between chips and matrix.
How to fix it
If asbestos is suspected, stop immediately and contact a specialist. For loosened chips, professional repair is needed.
Prevention
Test pre-1970s terrazzo for asbestos before any renovation work. Use gentle chemical cleaning rather than steam or high pressure.
Mistake #5
Using coloured sealers on multi-colour terrazzo
Why this is a problem
Coloured or tinted sealers alter each chip colour differently, muddying the design. White chips turn tinted, dark chips barely change, and the overall effect is a loss of contrast and depth.
How to fix it
Strip the sealer completely with Lithofin MN Power-Clean, then re-seal with a clear, transparent sealer.
Prevention
Always use colourless, transparent sealers on terrazzo. Lithofin MN Stain-Stop is invisible once cured.
Need help with Terrazzo?
Use the LithoFinder wizard to find the right product for your terrazzo surface, or read the full Terrazzo care guide.