Have you been shopping around for flooring or wall materials? Then likely, you have come across travertine tiles. They have a long history of thousands of years. They span from ancient Roman amphitheaters to modern kitchens.
Travertine has a classic appearance. The material is beautiful and warm, making it among the most adaptable natural stones to use. Here is all you need to know about it before making that purchase.
What exactly is travertine?
This refers to a natural rock that is formed around mineral springs. It is mostly made up of limestone. It is available in natural colors like:
- Beige
- Cream
- Grey
- Ivory
- Walnut
- Silver.
Travertine is porous in nature. Thus, it has a particular texture, which makes it characterful and charming. None of the tiles are identical, so you have a unique floor, backsplash, or patio.
Types of travertine finishes
The best thing about travertine tile is that it is available in various finishes. Each provides a different style. We look at them below:
- Shiny: Glossy and smooth. It is perfect for a luxurious space.
- Honed: Matte and flat. It is perfect for a modern space.
- Tumbled: Textured, rustic, usually applied on the exteriors.
- Brushed: A little rough with a soft look. Ideal for a natural look.
The finish you choose can entirely transform the mood of the room. For example, a shiny travertine bathroom brings out the spa look. On the other hand, a tumbled travertine patio brings out a natural look.
Where can you use the tiles?
Here is a short answer: anywhere. Travertine tiles are extremely adaptable. You can use them on:
- Indoor flooring
- Backsplashes
- Fireplace surrounds
- Shower walls, etc.
They are popular in the outdoor setting, such as:
- Patios
- Garden walks
- Pool decks.
This is attributed to their coolness on feet, even on hot days.
With that said, remember that travertine is porous. Thus, it can absorb liquids when it is not sealed accordingly. So, you must seal it accordingly. This is important, especially in kitchens or bathrooms where spills occur frequently.
How to care for travertine
This material does not need high maintenance. However, you need to do a few things for it to retain its unique appearance. You’ll want to:
- Seal during the installation. Then, reseal after every few years.
- Wash using a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid vinegar or harsh chemicals.
- Always clean up spills immediately. This will prevent permanent stains.
- Place mats or rugs in busy places. This will minimize wear.
Your travertine floor can last decades when you properly take care of it. This material gains character with the years.
Summing up
Do you adore natural beauty? Or perhaps you like understated luxury? Travertine is a material that is effective in the backyard as it is in the bathroom. It is not the most affordable tile in the market. However, it is a long-term investment that will beautify and uplift your house.
So, don’t settle for something common, think of travertine. It is classic, versatile, and has character. Just the sort of update your room needs!