Terrazzo has been a much-loved material for centuries, known for its unique aesthetic and enduring strength. Today, terrazzo enjoys renewed popularity, featuring in numerous Australian projects across various sectors. As Melbourne’s premier supplier of terrazzo, Fibonacci is at the forefront of this resurgence. We're proud to bring our unique blend of artistry and innovation to this age-old craft. But as terrazzo's popularity has grown, so has the emergence of terrazzo look tiles. In this article, we delve into the differences between genuine terrazzo tiles and their look-alike counterparts, weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of each.
What is Terrazzo?
Terrazzo is an intricate blend of raw materials, often comprised of chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass, set in cement or resin. This composite material is then polished to achieve a smooth surface, revealing the beauty of the combined elements. It's a synthesis of raw materials chosen deliberately to complement and highlight each other, all bound elegantly together, then finished to form a union of lasting strength and durability. Fibonacci's terrazzo creations are the embodiment of this rich tradition, with each design conceived by our visionary, Michael Karakolis.
Terrazzo Tiles: Advantages
Durability: Genuine terrazzo tiles are known for their long-lasting strength. Properly installed and maintained, terrazzo can last for decades, even centuries.
Unique Designs: Each terrazzo tile is distinct. The combination of materials ensures that no two tiles are ever exactly alike, offering a unique aesthetic appeal.
Sustainability: At Fibonacci, sustainability is a core principle. Genuine terrazzo tiles can be created using up-cycled materials, ensuring a reduced environmental footprint.
Terrazzo Look Tiles: Advantages
Cost-Effective: These tiles are often more affordable than genuine terrazzo, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious projects.
Consistent Designs: For projects that require a more uniform look, terrazzo look tiles can offer more consistency across tiles.
Ease of Installation: Look-alike tiles might not require the same level of expertise for installation as genuine terrazzo.
Terrazzo Look Tiles: Disadvantages
Durability: While terrazzo look tiles can be durable, they may not offer the same longevity as genuine terrazzo tiles.
Authenticity: For purists, look-alike tiles lack the authenticity and unique appeal of genuine terrazzo.
Environmental Impact: The production of some terrazzo look tiles might not align with sustainable practices, though this varies by manufacturer.