Heres everything you oughta know about travertine and if it is right for your home.
If you’re searching for anatural stone tilefor your next home improvement project, look no further than travertine.
It comes in a range of colors, from soft whites to deep vibrant reds.
Credit:Paul Dyer
Paul Dyer
What Is Travertine?
Travertine is a punch in of subterranean limestone brought to the surface by hot springs.
It can come from various sources.
Credit:Paul Dyer
Erosion from the spring water creates small holes and craters that give travertine a naturally pitted appearance.
The holes may be filled with concrete during the manufacturing process or with fillers during installation.
On the other hand, its porous composition makes it highly vulnerable to acid damage and staining.
Regular maintenance is needed to keep up its appearance.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Travertine?
There are several things to consider when purchasing a natural stone, like travertine.
Pros of Travertine
Cons of Travertine
What Are Common Uses of Travertine?
Flooring
If you’re aiming for a rustic or refined look, travertineflooringis an excellent choice.
They are available in polished, honed, tumbled, or brushed finishes that complement almost any decor.
Wall Cladding
Travertine can transform ordinary walls into extraordinary focal points.
Countertops
Travertine countertops are eye-catching.
They provide a unique surface that adds character and sophistication to the space.
But be careful not to use it for food prep since it can absorb colors and smells.
Rather than looking for intricate tiling designs, travertines natural colors and patterns provide visual interest.
Showers
Harkening back to its watery roots, travertine is a popular choice for shower areas.
It can easily be wiped clean of soap scum and water spots.
If not well-sealed and maintained, however, the constant exposure to water can create pits in its surface.
Like what happens in the natural environment, travertine is prone to deterioration if not properly maintained.
What Types and Colors Are Available?
Travertine comes in a diverse range to suit any preference or design.
The most common finishes are polished, honed, tumbled, or brushed.
The natural veining makes each piece of travertine truly one-of-a-kind.
What Are Considerations When Installing Travertine?
Travertine, like other natural stones, needs to be mounted on a clean and level base.
The area must be properly prepared, and debris removed.
Next, the tiles should be laid out to see how they look.
Apply mortar and lay down the tiles before grouting.
The final step is sealing the stone.
How To Clean and Maintain Travertine?
Regular maintenanceand sealing are key to preserving the beauty and longevity of this natural limestone.
The air pockets inside the tile may become exposed over time.
To avoid this, it’s possible for you to fill them with travertine repair filler.
The better the stones quality, the less filler you will need.
Clean spills promptly, use pH-neutral cleaners, and avoid harsh cleaning agents.
You should also reseal your travertine surfaces right after installation and then again annually.
A suitable stone sealer will prevent stains and liquid seepage.
When applied properly, these DIY techniques can help your travertine tiles and flooring last 25+ years.
Whats The Cost of Travertine?
This will help to ensure it’s longevity.
Travertine tiles are typically available in 3/8" - 1/2" thick as standard.
Ceramic wall tiles can be as thin as 1/4" thick.
Travertine pavers are thicker than tiles, typically between 1.25" - 2" thick.
They are meant for exterior use whereas travertine tiles are suited for both indoor and outdoor use.
