Few can resist the natural pastoral stone charm of travertine, a limestone type that forms near mineral springs. Get them in earth shades and in a variety of finishings. Great on the floor, they excel on counters and backsplashes and the garden path too. Yet, travertine may not be everybody’s cup of tea. Know a few perks and quirks beforehand to help decide, four of each.
Plus points of travertine like Machu Picchu Travertine Tile
An exceptional characteristic
The dignified smartness of travertine, among the oldest building materials, is quite unusual. Travertine often resembles marble and granite. Art by Mother Nature comes in cream and beige, gold and brown, gray and red.
Robust enough to last and last
High traffic, water, indoors and outdoors, no matter, travertine stands scratching and chipping too. The tumbled finish does not show up marks as much as the honed or polished. Caramel Travertine is a superb example.
Environment friendly, nature born
Travertine is recycled and biodegrades with no manufacturing involved. Salvage it if you wish from an old installation.
Easily refurbished
After many years, travertine may weather and break. Keep a few extra tiles to patch up.
Travertine Tile minus points
They cost quite a bit
Travertine like Walnut Vein Cut Travertine costs more, compared to some other tile floors. Among natural stone, it is in the mid-range price. Adhesives, labor and grout add up.
Difficult to care for
Travertine, being porous with little holes, juices would stain it. Sealing is required to prevent stains that are dual, a penetrating and a barrier surface sealer while installing. The sealing would be repeated from time to time. Vinegar or salt cleaners need to be avoided, since it will leave a permanent stain. Picasso Travertine is one of those rare patterns.
Travertine is a heavyweight
Being rather heavy, travertine will take long to install. Transportation costs would be substantial, unless you transport it yourself. Travertine would probably suit only the first floor in view of the weight.
Travertine leads to cold floors
This natural stone does not retain warmth and the result would be cold shocks under the feet on winter mornings! Woolen socks or slippers would solve the problem, of course. Carpets would warm up the floor and add visual interest. Do you fancy Tuscany Chateaux Travertine?
You need to take the decision in view of all the factors. If you insist on travertine, check out the many choices of pavers and tiles in the outdoors inspiration gallery.