Message from Ken Follett--

     "Can anyone explain what a 'terrazo' floor is comprised of?"

     "Simple explanation: Stone, aggregate, usually selected for color & size.
     Cementitious matrix usually tinted an interesting color. Pour it like
     concrete then when set/dry grind it down with diamond wheels. The grinding
     exposes the cross section & color of the aggregate. Progressively finer
     diamond grinding results in a polish, the polishing process possibly
     augmented by various other stuff."

     This is why I like this listserv so much.  I have seen terrazo floors in so
     many buildings of the 30s and 40s but have never known what it was.  This
     is the kind of thing no one ever tells you.  National Airport has LOTS of
     terazzo in many colors in the old terminal and in the office wings attached
     to the old hangars.

     Was the process discovered in the 20th c?  Is that why it was so popular
     then?  Is it still being used?

     Will look forward to hearing about the restoration problems.


     Marilyn Harper
     National Register of Historic Places
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