Staff Answer
Sep 09, 2026 - 01:17 PM
Terrazzo flooring is a durable composite surface made by combining decorative chips, such as marble, quartz, granite, or recycled glass, with a cement-based or epoxy-based binder. After the material cures, the surface is ground and polished to expose the aggregate and create a smooth, decorative finish.
Terrazzo is considered a low-porosity flooring material, meaning it does not readily absorb water. However, absorption can vary based on the terrazzo system, the binder used, the floor’s composition, the finish quality, and whether the surface has previously been sealed.
The appropriate sealer depends on whether the terrazzo is cement-based, epoxy-based, previously sealed, or exposed to wet conditions. Use the flooring system and surface condition to choose the product that will bond correctly and deliver the desired finish.
There are two common terrazzo binder systems to consider:
· Cement-based terrazzo: This category includes systems such as sand cushion, bonded, monolithic, polyacrylate, and rustic terrazzo. Cement-based terrazzo is commonly used in interior applications and may also be used on some exterior surfaces. Because these systems can be more absorbent than epoxy-based terrazzo, they typically require a penetrating sealer when the surface has not already been coated.
· Epoxy-based terrazzo: Epoxy terrazzo is a thinner, more flexible system that is often used in commercial interiors. It is valued for its design flexibility, durability, and strong surface performance. Because epoxy terrazzo is typically less absorbent, it usually requires a topical coating designed to bond to non-absorbent surfaces.
· If the terrazzo is a cement-based system and has not previously been sealed with a surface coating, we recommend SealGreen Polished Concrete Sealer (penetrating). This sealer is designed to penetrate dense, tight, and absorbent surfaces, making it an appropriate choice for cement-based terrazzo that can accept a penetrating treatment. A penetrating sealer will not change the floor surface or create a gloss finish.
· If the terrazzo is an epoxy-based system, we recommend SealGreen Poly-Shine for a high-gloss finish or SealGreen Poly-Matte for a matte finish. These products are designed to adhere to non-absorbent surfaces. If the floor was previously sealed with a surface sealer, a new coating may be applied over the existing finish as long as the old coating is clean, sound, and in good condition.
· For terrazzo floors that may become wet or where slip resistance is important, we recommend applying SealGreen Poly-StepGuard with an anti-skid additive. Poly-StepGuard provides a gloss surface while helping reduce the risk of slips. If Poly-StepGuard is selected, Poly-Shine or Poly-Matte is not needed. For best results, apply two coats of SealGreen Poly-StepGuard.
Before applying any sealer or coating, the terrazzo should be thoroughly cleaned with SealGreen Oil Cleaner/Degreaser. Proper cleaning helps remove dirt, oil, grease, and other contaminants that could interfere with sealer penetration, coating adhesion, or overall performance.
Please call us to review your project and to choose the best solution for your project SealGreen 913-681-3451 or 800- 997-3873.
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