We have all had to make this decision. Do we hire the person with the lowest price for a service or item, or do we take that chance that this price will be reflect in the quality of the workmanship which we expect? In this economy it is hard to make these types of choices. There are many people selling their products or services that “talk the talk” but do not “walk the walk” when it comes to quality. Especially when it comes to Terrazzo flooring. contractorround for literally for thousands of years. It came into its own in Venice Italy around the 15th century when the Marble workers used the chips and smaller pieces and pressed them into a clay type surface for their terraces, thus the name Terrazzo. It is durable, easy to maintain, and will last a life time if taken care of properly. Needing little more than a yearly professional Terrazzo cleaning and polishing with a sealer, you only need to keep it swept clean and mopped with a neutral soap. It cost $30.00 or more to install today, which is a large amount of money to spend. However some contractors who say they have the experience can really do a terrible job. As seen in the above video, money can be wasted because the customers choose the “lower” price. Which sometimes in the long run will cost more to repair than the higher bid in the first place. So let talk about hiring a contractor.
First, the best recommendation are from prior customers, people who have worked with that contractor, have seen their work ethic, and how they supervise the work that is being done. Always ask for customers references, but even better see if someone you know have has restoration or cleaning of their Terrazzo done. A contractors “references” may or may not be the “real deal”. Knowing someone your self that you trust is always better.
Second, call the BBB, as they will have any complaints on file if any. You can also ask for pictures of some of the recent projects that their work. Make sure they show you close up shots of any restoration of cracks or chips out of the Terrazzo. Restoring Terrazzo is an art as well as a craft. Color matching of cement and marble chips are of the utmost importance. If you find Terrazzo that has been hidden under carpet or tile for years, you will need to have a company with the experience and dedication to their craft to bring that floor back to life.
At Colonial Floor and Stone Care, we have over 20 years of experience in restoring Historic Terrazzo, as well as other natural stone, such as Mexican and Cuban tile. Also decorative concrete, which is also considered a stone material which can be acid stained and polished to a show room quality appearance. We have a passion for these types of flooring. We treat your floor as if it was our own. Call us for a free estimate and let us earn your business.
Always get multiple estimates for different companies before you make your choice. Remember paying abit more for high quality work usually is the best decision. However, it is you, the consumer’s choice. So make it the right choice.