Epoxy Terrazzo Floor Coating Limitations

Although epoxy terrazzo offers many benefits when compared with other decorative floor toppings, it does have some limitations. Probably the biggest drawback is that the system is nonbreathable, so it traps moisture vapor transmission coming up from the concrete slab. This can result in loosening of the epoxy topping or improper curing. When epoxy terrazzo is installed onto concrete slabs on grade, manufacturers often recommend the installation of a good vapor barrier.

"While moisture transmission is a problem, I wouldn't single out epoxy terrazzo," says Cain. "It's just one of many floor surfaces that can be affected. Moisture transmission can also be a problem with ceramic or resilient tile, wood, and carpeting."

"Another downside is the high cost of initial installation, due to the labor and skill level involved. It's usually not an economical surface to put down in facilities that won't be around for decades," Cain admits. "It's a 40-year floor. If you stretch the cost over the floors life span, though, the maintenance and installation costs are very low."

Other potential limitations:

  • Epoxy terrazzo is generally not recommended for outdoor use because of concerns about UV exposure.

  • Once the epoxy is mixed, it has a working time of only 45 minutes to an hour, so it must be placed without delay.

  • Because divider strips should be installed directly over all control and expansion joints in the slab (to prevent the topping from cracking at those locations), the strips can interfere with some designs.

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