3 Different Methods for Repairing Fine Line Cracks in Terrazzo Floors

3 Different Methods for Repairing Fine Line Cracks in Terrazzo Floors

Whilst terrazzo floors are known for being one of the more durable flooring systems in the market today, it is not indestructible.  If fine-line cracks become a problem, there are three easy ways to repair them without having to call in the professionals.  Although it is still recommended to at least consult with the people who installed your terrazzo floors before you proceed with any DIY repairs just to ensure you’re applying the correct method of repair to your terrazzo floors.

Cement Patch

If the binder used on your terrazzo floors is Portland cement-based then fine-line cracks or chips can be repaired using a cement grout.  Note that this type of repair method is more labour-intensive than patching with epoxy however the results have proven to be much durable in comparison.

1. Mix the grout into a thick paste and carefully work it into the cracked portion with the use of a putty knife.
2. Once the grout is in place, a terrazzo mixture of marble chips and cement grout should be applied over the first layer of grout before it has dried.  Once the second layer is applied, level the area with a trowel.
3. Once the mixture is levelled and dried, the area should be sanded down with a 40-grit sandpaper to be followed up with a finer grit, like the 80-grit sandpaper to further smoothen the repaired patch.
4. After sanding the patch, seal the area with a clear penetrating sealer.  Note that the pH should be between 7 and 10.

 

Oil-Based Primer

An oil-based primer sealer will help seal the surface area surrounding the tile and fill the pores of the affected area.

1. Prior to applying the primer, make sure that the surrounding area of the crack and the crack itself is debris-free.
2. Once the cracked area is debris-free, strip the sealer just around the cracked surface using either a paint stripper solution or ammonia.  Again, please note that it is best to consult your terrazzo floor installers before embarking on any DIY repairs.
3. After priming the area, follow it up with a high-gloss, oil-based paint which has been tinted to match your terrazzo floors.
4. Note that this type of repair will only hide small fine-line cracks and may not be able to prevent any existing cracks from widening.  This is why it is recommended that this repair be followed up with two-part epoxy sealing.

 

Epoxy Patch

This type of repair not only fixes fine-line cracks on your terrazzo floor surfaces, it also helps prevent the crack from widening.

1. To begin applying, first squirt equal amounts of each epoxy onto a piece of sturdy cardboard.
2. Mix the two parts thoroughly and gently apply the mixture into the cracked surface using a toothpick.  Make sure that you only get the epoxy on the actual cracked surface and not on the surrounding area.  This is to ensure that the repair remains durable and virtually unnoticeable.

Let the epoxy set for at least 24 hours.  Ensure that the repaired area is not walked on or disturbed whilst it is drying.