Terrazzo is becoming increasingly popular in the construction and decoration industry due to its high wear resistance and good decorative effects. The correct application method can not only ensure the beauty of terrazzo, but also extend its life.
Below are the detailed steps and precautions for laying terrazzo floors:
1. Preparation
Material Preparation: Choose high-quality terrazzo materials, typically including terrazzo tiles, floor adhesives, sealants, etc. You should also prepare such tools as a level, spatulas, rubber mallets, cutters, etc.
Floor treatment: Make sure the floor is clean, level and free of oil and dust. If necessary, use self-leveling cement or other materials to repair uneven ground and proceed to the next step after complete drying.
2. Measurement and planning
Measure the size: Carefully measure the size of the land and plan the terrazzo paving plan according to the actual situation. Mark the center line and reference line to ensure that each terrazzo is perfectly laid out during the laying process.
Dry paving test: Before the official laying, you can dry the terrazzo slabs on the ground for testing, adjust the placement of the slabs and make sure that the pattern and cracks meet the design requirements.
3. Placement step
Apply the adhesive: Use a notched scraper to spread the adhesive evenly over the floor. Note that the thickness of the application should be moderate, usually between 3 and 5 mm. The area of application of the adhesive should match the number of tiles that are planned to be laid, to prevent the adhesive from drying too quickly and impairing the adhesive effect.
Terrazzo Placement: Place the Terrazzo tiles from the center line or reference line and press gently so that they are fully bonded with the adhesive. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the surface of the brick to make sure it is level and solid. After placing each brick, check the level with a spirit level.
Adjust the gap: During the laying process, maintain an even gap between each terrazzo slab, and the total gap width is 2-3mm. If necessary, use plastic spacers to maintain spacing consistency.
4. Filling and cleaning
Processing with putty: after laying, wait for the glue to dry completely and fill the brick joints with the mixture. Use a squeegee to spread the sealant evenly over the crack, then wipe off the excess sealant with a damp cloth.
Clean the surface: After the surface of the terrazzo tile is finished, use a clean, damp cloth to clean the dirt and adhesive residue on the surface of the tile. Avoid using acidic detergents to avoid damaging the terrazzo surface.
5. Care and Maintenance
Curing time: After laying the terrazzo, the floor should be kept dry and avoided for 24 hours to ensure the adhesive has fully cured.
Daily maintenance: Clean the terrazzo surface regularly and avoid using harsh cleaning tools or products containing acidic ingredients. You can use a neutral detergent and a soft cloth to clean it to preserve the shine and beauty of the terrazzo.
By using the steps above, you can effectively lay your terrazzo to ensure its beauty and longevity. Careful construction and proper care will make terrazzo a beautiful and long-lasting decoration of your premises.