4Specs Community,
I’m looking for advice and resources for specifications regarding refinishing an existing portland cement terrazzo floor.
NTMA has a good start in their guide specification Section 090160.91: https://ntma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Restoration-of-Terrazzo-Revision-Jul-2021.pdf
Any other information (manufacturers of sealer or grinding equipment) that would be good to include here? Advice and comments are greatly appreciated!
In Canada, we have the TTMAC. They have a great specification for refinishing Terrazzo. However, you need to purchase their manual and practices might defer regionally.
In my experience, it’s best to speak with a local installer or supplier.
I would echo Juste about contacting a terrazzo contractor. They can give good advice about local suppliers. It sounds like you are getting into means and methods a little and you may not need to. NTMA has a link to contractors: Contractor Members – National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association . Depending on where you are located, IMI might also be a resource.
My most successful historic terrazzo restoration was an art deco era office tower converted to apartments. The original installer was still in business. That’s your best resource - maybe you’ll get lucky for your project.
This is great advice, Juste. Installers and Suppliers are incredibly valuable resources. They are the greatest experts, each in their own respective fields.
Correct… I certainly need to be careful with means and methods, but i also want to understand and specify the appropriate grade, quality, and products for finishing.
I suspect there may be reliance on initial field samples for this project.
Wow!.. George, this sounds like the beginnings of another amazing specifications story.
This project was built in the 1940’s so its unlikely we’ll get the same installers in 2026, but that would make for a similarly amazing story if we do!
To be clear, it was the same company but the actual installers were the grandson and the grand nephew of the original guy. Still a pretty good story though.