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If you are looking to buy a countertop but are not interested in popular types of natural stone, such as granite and marble, perhaps you should consider a terrazzo countertop. While less common in homes, terrazzo is a beautiful material that has been around for ages. Use of the material can even be traced back to ancient civilizations. This guide will provide you with information regarding cost and everything else you will need to know before you buy a terrazzo countertop.
What is Terrazzo?
Terrazzo is a beautiful composite countertop material that is made by combining cement with pieces of granite, marble, glass and additional materials. It is both gorgeous and durable, which makes it a fantastic fit in any home.
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What Additional Materials Are Used in Terrazzo Countertops?
The additional materials mentioned above that are used in terrazzo countertops can vary. These materials can have an impact on the appearance of the countertops, so you can choose based on whichever surface you like. The additional materials that can be found in terrazzo countertops include:
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Recycled glass chips
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Pebbles
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Seashells
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Porcelain
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Marble
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Sand
How Much Do Terrazzo Countertops Cost?
Terrazzo countertops generally cost between $50 to $100 per square foot, depending on numerous factors.
How Does the Price of Terrazzo Countertops Compare to Other Options?
Below is a table depicting how the cost of terrazzo countertops compares to other countertop options available on the market.
Granite | Between $35 to $75 per square foot |
Marble | Between $40 to $100 per square foot |
Terrazzo | Between $50 to $100 per square foot |
Quartz | Between $50 to $120 per square foot |
Slate | Between $50 to $200 per square foot |
Soapstone | Between $55 to $100 per square foot |
Limestone | Between $70 to $200 per square foot |
Onyx | Between $75 to $250 per square foot |
Gemstone | Start around $100 per square foot |
What Factors Impact the Cost of Terrazzo Countertops?
There are multiple factors that have an impact on the overall cost of terrazzo countertops. These factors include:
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Size
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Edging
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Thickness
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Installation
Size
The size of your countertop will impact the cost of the project. The more material you require, the higher the cost. However, the majority of terrazzo slabs are 16 linear feet. While you can purchase a half slab, they are harder to find and may be more expensive per foot than the full-size slabs.
Edging
The type of edging you choose for your terrazzo countertop can play a part in the cost of the project.
Thickness
The thickness of the countertop can also impact the cost. Standard terrazzo countertops are 1.5 inches thick.
Installation
As you will find with any countertop option, installation will increase the cost. That being said, you should not attempt to cut down on costs by trying to install the countertop yourself. Terrazzo countertops are incredibly heavy, and you will need to hire a professional to have them installed. Choosing to hire a professional will provide you with the peace of mind that there is a low risk for any damages happening during the installation, as well as no injury risk to you.
Pros and Cons of Terrazzo Countertops
You will come across some pros and cons of terrazzo countertops, just as you would with any other material. Below is an explanation of all the pros and cons.
Pros | Cons |
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Beautiful Looks | Cost |
Durable | Maintenance |
Environmentally Friendly | Must Be Properly Sealed |
Scratch Resistant |
Pros
Beautiful Looks
One of terrazzo’s main benefits is the high-quality look you will have for your countertop The material is both stunning and unique.
Durable
Terrazzo countertops are a very durable surface, which makes the material the perfect choice for any home.
Environmentally Friendly
The recycled materials used to make terrazzo countertops make them an environmentally friendly option.
Scratch Resistant
Terrazzo countertops are resistant to scratches, which is a major benefit if you install the surface in a kitchen.
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Cons
Cost
Terrazzo is not the most expensive countertop material, but it is not the cheapest either. If you are looking for a unique, durable and beautiful countertop, perhaps the cost will not be viewed as such a negative.
Maintenance
You must put in the effort to properly maintain a terrazzo countertop to keep it in good shape. To clean the surface, only use stone cleaner that is suitable for use with terrazzo.
Must Be Properly Sealed
You must make sure your terrazzo countertop is properly sealed. If it is not, it can become susceptible to damages.
Terrazzo countertops are a great choice if you are looking for something that is a little bit outside the box yet beautiful. Carefully think through all of the factors explained above before making a decision to purchase a terrazzo countertop.
National Average
$4,000
(30 sq.ft. of moderate countertop with eased edge, undermount sink, and no backsplash)
Cost to install kitchen countertops varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). Get free estimates from countertop installers in your city.
Find out how much your project will cost.