Because terrazzo is one of a few remaining handcrafted floor finishes, these tips will help when selecting a reliable contractor and obtaining the best possible results. To find an NCTA contractor in your area, click here.
- Select a terrazzo contractor known for high-quality work and that has an established reputation in the community.
- Verify the contractor’s insurance coverage (and licensing if required in your state).
- Use the National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association, Inc. (NTMA) specification guidelines to learn about the entire process.
- If you obtain proposals from more than one contractor, make sure all are bidding on the same type of mix and construction.
- Visit terrazzo projects by the prospective contractor(s) of the same system and scope. Talk with the owners of the projects.
- Insist on a written contract or agreement, in addition to any guarantees.
- Your terrazzo contractor should be able to submit a qualifications statement upon request.
- If you are unable to verify references and reputation, insist that only a suitable terrazzo contractor be subcontracted for your installation.
The fastest and easiest way to ensure a professional, pre-qualified terrazzo contractor is by using a member of the North Central Terrazzo Association, part of the National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association, Inc. Its members are proficient in all types of terrazzo systems, and must abide by the quality assurances established by the NTMA.
- Accepts full responsibility for the terrazzo installation.
- Provides an experienced management organization.
- Provides skilled journeymen craftsmen trained to do a quality terrazzo installation.
- Supplies properly selected, high quality materials and schedules their delivery for use in correct quantities and on time.
- Keeps informed of the most up-to-date techniques and materials.
- Knows the NTMA standards, and installs terrazzo in accordance to these standards.
- Insists that all work meets or exceeds expectations.
- Has the financial wherewithal to complete the project, regardless of any situation.
- Consistently lives up to the NTMA’s Quality Assurance.
- When disputes arise, the NTMA can conduct on-site job inspections of its members to determine whether the installation meets association standards. (The NTMA does not inspect non-member work.)