Advise a client choosing between polished concrete and terrazzo

Steps

1. Compare substrate dependency: polished concrete uses the existing structural slab as the finished wear surface, while terrazzo is an applied topping/matrix system independent of the underlying slab's aesthetic quality.
2. Weigh consistency risk: polished concrete finish quality depends heavily on the original slab's mix design, aggregate, and placement quality, which is harder to control on existing/older slabs, whereas terrazzo's aggregate and matrix are specified and installed fresh for a more consistent, designed appearance.
3. Compare design flexibility: terrazzo supports custom color/aggregate blends, logos, and precise divider-strip pattern work more readily than polished concrete's inherent-aggregate look.
4. Evaluate cost and schedule: polished concrete is generally lower material cost and faster where an existing slab is suitable, while terrazzo (especially cement/sand-cushion systems) carries higher material/labor cost and longer install time but offers a long service life and a well-established re-polishing/restoration path.
5. Consider long-term restoration: both systems support mechanical regrinding/repolishing over decades, but a poor-quality or heavily patched slab caps what polished concrete can achieve, while terrazzo's applied topping isn't limited by the underlying slab's cosmetic condition.