Resin-Based vs. Cement-Based Terrazzo Marble

When it comes to selecting the perfect surface material for a stylish and functional space, terrazzo is a top contender among interior designers. Known for its iconic speckled look, seamless installation, and design versatility, terrazzo has transcended trends to become a timeless choice in both residential and commercial applications. However, not all terrazzo is created equal. One of the most important distinctions lies in the composition of the material—specifically, whether it’s resin-based or cement-based.

As a B2B stone and tile supplier working closely with interior designers, we understand that durability, design flexibility, and ease of maintenance are key to making the right choice. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of resin-based versus cement-based marble terrazzo—ultimately making the case for why resin-based terrazzo is the superior solution for your next design project.

Cement-Based Terrazzo: The Traditional Choice

Cement-based terrazzo, often referred to as “traditional terrazzo,” has been around for centuries. This version uses a cement binder mixed with marble or stone chips. Once installed, it’s ground and polished to a smooth finish.

Pros of Cement-Based Terrazzo:

• Cost-Effective for Large Installations: Cement-based terrazzo can be an economical choice for large-scale flooring projects.
• Natural Appearance: With a softer, more muted color palette, cement terrazzo can lend a rustic or old-world charm to a space.
• Good for Thick Applications: It is often used in thicker installations, such as full-depth flooring systems.

Cons of Cement-Based Terrazzo:

• Limited Design Flexibility: The cement binder restricts the size of aggregate chips to roughly 25mm or less. As a result, the overall appearance can be more uniform and less dynamic.
• Color Constraints: Cement-based terrazzo is limited in color versatility. The final product may have more natural imperfections and less pigment consistency.
• Prone to Cracking and Staining: Cement is porous and can crack or stain over time, especially in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas.
• Heavier and Thicker: Due to the material's composition, it often requires more structural support and is more labor-intensive to install.

Resin-Based Terrazzo: The Modern Upgrade

Resin-based terrazzo uses epoxy resin instead of cement as the binding agent. This allows for a much more flexible and refined end product, which has grown increasingly popular among designers and architects.

Pros of Resin-Based Terrazzo:

• Exceptional Durability: Resin-based terrazzo is stronger and more resilient than its cement counterpart. It resists cracking, chipping, and wear—making it ideal for both commercial and residential applications.
• Larger Aggregate Chip Sizes: Thanks to the flexibility of resin, aggregate chips can exceed 100mm in size. This creates a bolder, more visually dynamic finish with greater design depth.
• Vast Color and Finish Options: Resin can be custom pigmented, offering a broad spectrum of color options, finishes, and patterns to suit any design aesthetic.
• Seamless and Non-Porous: Resin-based terrazzo creates a seamless, non-porous surface that is highly resistant to stains, bacteria, and moisture. This makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-use areas.
• Lighter Weight and Thinner Installation: Because resin is lighter than cement, it allows for thinner installations and reduced structural load—an important factor in renovations and multi-level buildings.

Cons of Resin-Based Terrazzo:

• UV Sensitivity: Some resin-based terrazzo can yellow over time if exposed to direct sunlight, though UV-stable resins can mitigate this issue.
• Higher Initial Cost: The upfront cost can be slightly higher than cement-based terrazzo. However, the durability and design advantages often result in long-term savings.

Why Resin-Based Terrazzo is the Superior Choice for Designers

When evaluating the needs of most interior design projects—whether you're designing a boutique hotel lobby, a luxury residence, or a retail flagship store—resin-based terrazzo offers more of what matters: design freedom, structural efficiency, and enduring beauty.

For designers looking to push creative boundaries while delivering lasting value to clients, resin-based terrazzo opens the door to unmatched possibilities. From large-scale aggregate pieces that create dramatic focal points, to custom color formulations that match brand palettes, the material is as versatile as it is performance-driven.

Discover Agglo + CHIPS: The Pinnacle of Resin-Based Terrazzo

If you're looking to source the finest resin-based terrazzo, look no further than our Agglo + CHIPS collections. Handcrafted using the finest marble and high-performance resin, our terrazzo marble is engineered for durability, beauty, and design versatility. Unlike cement-based terrazzo, which is prone to chipping and staining, they offer a resilient surface that maintains its appearance over time—making it ideal for commercial, hospitality, and luxury residential applications.

What Makes Agglo + CHIPS Stand Out:

• A Multitude of Colors: From soft neutrals to rich jewel tones, Agglo offers a color palette that suits any interior aesthetic. Whether you’re designing a minimalist showroom or a vibrant boutique, there’s an Agglo or CHIPS hue to match.
• Customizable Formats: Available in a wide range of tile and slab sizes, Agglo adapts effortlessly to both wall and floor applications. Use large-format slabs for seamless counters or combine different tile sizes for unique visual rhythm.
• Multiple Finishes: Choose from polished, honed, textured, brushed and scalloped finishes to match your project's functional and visual needs.
• Larger Chip Sizes for Unique Design Impact: Unlike cement-based terrazzo, which is limited to smaller aggregate sizes, Agglo’s resin composition allows for chips over 100mm. This gives each tile a distinctive look that brings natural marble to the forefront.
• Low Maintenance and Stain-Resistant: Thanks to its non-porous surface, Agglo terrazzo is incredibly easy to maintain. It resists moisture and staining—ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces that require high performance and minimal upkeep.

When it comes to choosing between resin-based and cement-based terrazzo, the decision should ultimately align with the goals of your project. Cement-based terrazzo may be suitable for traditional installations where cost or rustic aesthetic is a factor. But for most modern interior applications—where performance, flexibility, and aesthetics must come together—resin-based terrazzo is clearly the better choice.

And within the resin-based category, ours stands apart. It combines the finest Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge material science to deliver a terrazzo solution that not only looks stunning but also performs at the highest level.

Whether you’re working on a sleek contemporary hotel or an upscale retail space, it provides the sophistication and strength to bring your vision to life. With a multitude of colors, customizable formats, and superior durability, it’s no wonder Agglo + CHIPS are the terrazzo of choice for discerning interior designers.