Terrazzo Flooring vs. Polished Concrete: Which One is Right for You?

By kraft / February 10, 2025

Introduction

When choosing a flooring solution, two popular options stand out—terrazzo and polished concrete. Both offer durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-term value, making them ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. However, each has distinct features that may influence your decision. In this guide, we compare terrazzo flooring and polished concrete, helping you determine which one is best for your space.

What is Terrazzo Flooring?

Terrazzo flooring is a composite material made from marble, quartz, granite, or glass chips embedded in a cement or epoxy binder. The surface is polished to achieve a smooth, elegant finish, often enhanced with custom patterns and color variations.

Types of Terrazzo Flooring

Cement-Based Terrazzo – Traditional terrazzo made with a cement binder.
Epoxy Terrazzo – Modern terrazzo that uses epoxy resins for greater flexibility and color options.
Monolithic Terrazzo – Applied directly over a concrete slab for seamless integration.

What is Polished Concrete Flooring?

Polished concrete is a refined flooring solution created by mechanically grinding and polishing an existing concrete surface. The process involves several stages of grinding with finer abrasives and applying sealants to enhance durability and resistance to stains.

Types of Polished Concrete

Exposed Aggregate Polished Concrete – Fully grinds the surface to reveal large stone aggregates.

Cream Polished Concrete – Retains the original surface for a smooth, minimalistic look.

Salt and Pepper Polished Concrete – Exposes small aggregates for a slightly textured finish.

Key Differences Between Terrazzo and Polished Concrete

Feature	Terrazzo Flooring	Polished Concrete
Aesthetic Appeal	Elegant, highly customizable, decorative patterns available	Modern, industrial look with natural variations
Durability	Extremely durable and long-lasting	Highly durable but may develop cracks over time
Maintenance	Requires regular sealing and occasional refinishing	Low maintenance with periodic sealing and cleaning
Cost	Higher upfront cost due to materials and labor	More affordable, especially for large spaces
Installation Time	Longer due to multiple layers and curing	Faster installation process
Slip Resistance	Can be treated for anti-slip properties	Can be slippery if highly polished but can be treated
Best Use Cases	High-end homes, commercial buildings, hotels, showrooms	Warehouses, retail stores, modern homes, industrial spaces

Pros and Cons of Terrazzo Flooring

Pros:

✅ Luxurious and customizable ✅ Extremely durable and long-lasting ✅ Resistant to stains, moisture, and heavy traffic ✅ Adds significant property value

Cons:

❌ Expensive compared to other flooring options ❌ Requires professional installation ❌ Can be slippery if not treated

Pros and Cons of Polished Concrete Flooring

Pros:

✅ Cost-effective flooring solution ✅ Easy to maintain and clean ✅ Versatile for various applications ✅ Reflects light, enhancing room brightness

Cons:

❌ May crack over time ❌ Limited color and design options compared to terrazzo ❌ Requires periodic sealing

Cost Comparison: Terrazzo vs. Polished Concrete in Kenya

The cost of flooring varies depending on factors such as the type of material, installation complexity, and customization.

Terrazzo Flooring: KES 4,000 – KES 10,000 per square meter
Polished Concrete Flooring: KES 1,500 – KES 3,500 per square meter

While terrazzo has a higher upfront cost, it offers unmatched durability and aesthetics, making it a long-term investment. Polished concrete, on the other hand, is budget-friendly and offers a stylish yet simple look.

Which Flooring Option Should You Choose?

Choose Terrazzo if: You want a luxurious, customizable, and highly durable floor that adds value to your property.
Choose Polished Concrete if: You need an affordable, low-maintenance flooring solution with a sleek, modern appeal.

Why Choose StoneKraft Ltd for Your Flooring Needs?

At StoneKraft Ltd, we specialize in both terrazzo and polished concrete flooring solutions in Kenya. Our expert team delivers high-quality craftsmanship tailored to your style, budget, and functional needs.

Our Services Include:

Professional consultation and flooring recommendations
High-quality terrazzo and polished concrete installation
Custom design solutions for unique finishes
Maintenance and aftercare services

Conclusion

Both terrazzo and polished concrete flooring offer unique benefits, making them excellent choices depending on your requirements. Whether you prioritize elegance and customization or affordability and durability, StoneKraft Ltd is here to help you achieve the perfect flooring solution.

Contact us today for expert guidance and a free quote!