Many older HDB flats, landed homes and shophouses in Singapore still have their original terrazzo floors. After decades of use, they can look stained, dull and patchy. Before you hack them out and retile, know this: most terrazzo can be restored.
What is terrazzo?
Terrazzo is made of marble or stone chips set in a cement or resin base, then ground smooth. That speckled look is why it’s loved, and why it lasts for decades when it’s cared for.
Why terrazzo loses its shine
- Foot traffic and grit wear down the surface
- Stains soak into the porous cement base
- Acidic cleaners dull the marble chips
- Cracks and pits appear as the building settles and ages
- Old coatings turn yellow or peel
How terrazzo restoration works
- Grinding removes the worn, stained top layer and old coatings.
- Filling repairs cracks, pits and holes with a colour-matched filler.
- Honing smooths the surface with finer diamond pads.
- Polishing brings back the natural shine and the colours of the chips.
- Sealing protects the cement base from new stains.
Want to understand the grinding step better? Read our guide to diamond grinding vs buffing.
Restore or replace?
| Restoring terrazzo | Replacing with new tiles | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually much lower | Higher: hacking, disposal, new tiles, labour |
| Mess and noise | Moderate | Heavy hacking and debris |
| Time | Usually a few days | Often longer |
| Look | Keeps the original vintage character | A completely new look |
If the terrazzo is solid and not badly cracked across large areas, restoration is usually the better value.
Caring for terrazzo afterwards
- Use a pH-neutral cleaner, never vinegar or harsh bleach
- Sweep often, because grit is what wears it down
- Wipe spills quickly, especially oil and coloured drinks
- Reseal it periodically to keep stains out
Bring your terrazzo back
GU Marble Polishing restores terrazzo floors in HDB flats, landed homes, shophouses and offices across Singapore, from crack filling to full grinding, polishing and sealing. Send us a few photos on WhatsApp and we’ll tell you honestly whether your floor can be restored.