Mosaic Flooring vs Terrazzo Flooring: Which One Wins the Battle of the Tiles?

If you’ve spent a lot of time at your grandparents’ house, you’re most likely familiar with terrazzo flooring. Their characteristic patterns are reminiscent of older homes, where these tiles were once in popular demand. However, that doesn’t mean they lack relevance today. Just as most trends tend to come back, terrazzo can be seen making quite the comeback. Of the many flooring options available today, mosaic and terrazzo are finding their respective ways back into the limelight. But what exactly are the differences between mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring? Join us as we dissect terrazzo and mosaic flooring in terms of key interior design factors – durability, cost and placements.

1. What Is Mosaic Flooring?

Have you ever looked at the colourful tiles that decorate the bottom of fountains or swimming pools? They typically form a pattern using bright colours. These are none other than mosaic tiles. Mosaic flooring comprises little squares of stone, marble, or glass that are placed together in different designs. The tiles are then bound together with cement or grout to hold the pattern in place.

When you compare mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring, it’s easy to differentiate them based on how they look. With mosaic flooring tiles, you have the option to create a mural in different colours and patterns. However, terrazzo flooring tiles might not offer as much visual flexibility.

2. What is Terrazzo Flooring?

With origins in Italy, terrazzo secured a place in most Indian homes back in the 70s. However, it’s been a strong contender in architecture ever since ancient Rome. If you look at mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring side by side, you will notice that each style carries its own charm.

While mosaic floor tiles comprise whole squares set in cement, terrazzo flooring includes a mix of scattered chips. Marble, glass, or natural stone are set in a binding mixture—usually cement—to create this unique flooring style.

Also Read: 12 Types of Flooring–Which Is the Best Option for You?

3. Mosaic Flooring vs Terrazzo Flooring: Advantages and Disadvantages

Mosaic Floor Tiles	Terrazzo Floor Tiles
Resistance to wear and tear but can get dirty quickly in areas with high foot traffic due to their grout joints	Durable and well-suited for use in high traffic areas at home
High maintenance and requires frequent cleaning to prevent the build-up of grime in the grout joints	Can be relatively long-lasting and low-maintenance
Made with recycled glass, mosaic flooring can also be eco-friendly	Eco-friendly and perfect for sustainable homes as it uses natural materials
Mosaic floor tiles can be comparatively rough to touch and have an uneven surface	Might not have as much surface traction, thus making it slippery
Due to its uneven surface, these tiles can be uncomfortable to stand on with bare feet	May be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods of time, with bare feet
Costs can vary and depend on the pattern and design you opt for	Can be more expensive to purchase and install

4. Terrazzo vs Mosaic Cost: What’s the Difference?

Material Type	Price
Terrazzo flooring price per sq. ft.	₹350 to ₹400
Terrazzo tiles price per sq. ft.	₹70
Mosaic flooring cost per sq. ft.	₹100
Mosaic tile price per sq. ft.	₹80

The differences between mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring don’t just end at appearance. There’s a mix of factors that go into determining the price of each flooring option.

Depending on the colours and pattern you choose, your mosaic flooring cost can vary. Complex patterns over larger areas can lead to a higher mosaic floor tiles price. Alternatively, you can minimise the cost of mosaic flooring by going for a centrepiece design rather than laying a full floor.

Terrazzo has the potential to be more cost-effective, especially if you’re looking for a long-lasting material. However, the installation of terrazzo tiles can prove to be costly as it requires expert skills. Additionally, colour and chip materials you choose can further increase costs.

5. Differences Between Mosaic Flooring vs Terrazzo Flooring

While terrazzo was derived from mosaic floor tiles, the main difference between mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring lies in the pattern. However, this isn’t the only difference to note. Here are a few other properties that can help you make a more informed decision on which material to go for:

Mosaic Flooring vs Terrazzo Flooring

6. What Are the Best Places to Use Mosaic Flooring vs Terrazzo Flooring?

Mosaic tiles are best suited for: walls, floors, kitchen backsplashes, and bathrooms. Whereas, terrazzo tiles work best in kitchen countertops, floors, courtyards, and balconies.

Though both these types of tiles come with their pros and cons, you’re sure to find a suitable use case for them. So, what’s your pick between mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring?

Check out tile designs:

How Can Livspace Help You? 

We hope you found our guide on the differences between mosaic flooring vs terrazzo flooring useful! If you want beautiful interiors for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.

Have any thoughts or suggestions you’d like to share with us? We’re all ears! Drop us a line at editor@livspace.com.

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Please get in touch with a designer for more details on pricing and availability.