What is the best choice of flooring if noise reduction is a top priority?

When considering noise reduction as the top priority for flooring, terazzo is an excellent choice due to its composition and structure. Terrazzo flooring is made from a mixture of marble chips, resin, and other materials, which not only gives it a visually appealing finish but also creates a dense surface that effectively absorbs sound. The smooth finish of terrazzo offers minimal spaces for sound waves to bounce off, reducing overall noise levels in a space.

In contrast, cement, quarry tile, and asphalt tend to be much harder and more reflective surfaces. These materials can amplify sound rather than dampen it, which is not ideal in scenarios where noise reduction is necessary. Hard surfaces like cement and quarry tile can create echoes and contribute to an increased noise level, while asphalt, typically used outdoors, does not provide the same aesthetic appeal or sound absorption qualities in indoor environments. Therefore, terrazzo stands out as the best choice for flooring with a focus on minimizing noise.