Terrazzo flooring has been around for more than 1,500 years, and the name originates from the Italian word for ‘terrace.’ It was created by Venetian marble workers who were experimenting with new ways to use discarded marble chips. Today, it is commonly found adorning the spacious floors in airports, cathedrals, schools, and hospitals. It offers a durable flooring solution for high-traffic areas and is versatile and flexible enough to accommodate the most complex and intricate designs. But, did you know?…
 

Divider strips are an integral part of a terrazzo floor. Used to uplift a design and support the integrity of the floor, divider strips come in a variety of materials and can be as apparent or discrete as the design requires. They provide designers and architects with the opportunity to bring intricate designs and patterns to life. And, they are used to help form the layout, transition between colors, and make geometric shapes, lettering, logos, and artwork possible.

During the design process, architects, installers, contractors, and designers work together to identify key areas of a space that may require the functional support of a divider strip. Knowing this information as early in the process as possible is important because it dictates how the terrazzo and divider strips are installed.

Divider strips may be made from brass, aluminum, plastic, or zinc. Aluminum is the preferred material for divider strips in epoxy terrazzo floors because of its affordability and the possibility it can be made from recycled materials. However, for creating circular patterns and intricate, eye-catching designs, zinc is more flexible and the material of choice.

Brass and zinc strips can be used in both cement and epoxy terrazzo projects. Plastic is also a popular choice for divider strips because it can be made to match the colors of a specific design.

Divider strips are essential components in terrazzo floors that enhance the beauty of the design and the longevity of the flooring. If you’re thinking about installing a terrazzo floor, connect with an NCTA contractor to help decide which type of divider strip is best for your project.

Interested in learning more? Read “Four Tips to Maintain A New Terrazzo Floor“