What are the main pros and cons of travertine tiles?

We want to start our article with the technical definition of travertine stone. Before knowing in detail the main pros and cons of travertine tiles, it would be helpful to understand ​​what it is. Travertine is a natural stone formed by thermal springs heated by geothermal energy.

The primary purpose of travertine is in construction. Temples, spa complexes, and various monuments were built in travertine. It is one of the many natural stones used to pave patios, courtyards, and paths. 

Before purchasing your travertine tile, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the terms of the industry to choose the type and quality of the tile that best suits your needs. While there is no industry standard name for travertine grades, most establishments use the names listed below. Both types of travertine tile floor are created using different cutting methods, not using different types of travertine stone. 

Grades of Travertine Tile

Main pros and cons of travertine tiles:

Here’s the hard part! Now is the time to talk about the pros and cons of light travertine tile because, like any other natural stone, this one, too, has its ups and downs. Yes, we said that the variety of colors and styles is a big plus, and many benefits can go far beyond the simplistic style. 

Main Pros: 

You might first think about adding a touch of marble or granite to your bathroom or kitchen for a classic look. Yes, we know that marble and granite tiles can be charming for flooring. 

1. Options for colors and shades: 

As we have already mentioned, travertine is a stone that comes in many different colors and shades. You will be happy with the perfect look of the alternatives to scabos travertine tile when you see them. The options are almost endless, and it all depends on your imagination.

2. Durable value to your home:

Travertine tiles are very resistant. All you need to do is take care of them and maintain them properly. They don’t break easily when you handle them with care. It allows you to keep the house in good condition for many years to come.

3. Environmentally friendly:

It is the most environmentally friendly type of stone compared to other materials because travertine does not have to go through the manufacturing process and is around geothermal heated hot springs.

4. Travertine tiles are resistant:

It can easily tolerate extreme weather fluctuations and therefore are suitable for outdoor and indoor installations. You can install travertine pavers for your pool, garden path, or retaining wall in your home without worrying about the scorching heat damaging your travertine.

5. Naturally non-slippery texture:

Travertine is a naturally non-slippery stone, making it the perfect choice for installation in swimming pools, bathrooms, showers, floors, and pool edges. It has holes and pits due to its porous surface, making it rough and non-slippery in unsealed and unpolished conditions.

Travertine Tile USA

Main cons:

1. Porous structure of travertine:

Like all other natural stones, travertine also has its drawbacks. One of them is that travertine has a porous structure, which means it has many holes. This is perhaps the most important drawback of the travertine material.

2. Reactive to acid substances:

One of the main disadvantages of travertine is its sensitivity to acidic substances such as alcohol, coffee, vinegar, orange juice, etc. So even if you accidentally spill some orange or lemon juice on the 12×12 travertine tile, there is still the risk of a permanent stain as the acid in the solvent will react with the calcium carbonate in the stone.

3. Expensive:

Although travertine is cheaper than marble, it is still more expensive than limestone, granite, or carpet. However, compared to these options, travertine can add more value and elegance to your home and will undoubtedly outlive any of the options mentioned above.

4. Maintenance and care:

Travertine can durable or resistant, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require thorough care or maintenance. Compared to other flooring options such as granite, ceramic, or vinyl, travertine requires much more attention to preserve its timeless beauty and elegance.

Types of travertine:

Due to the bedding plans inherent in most travertines, it is possible to drastically different appearance depending on the type of cut chosen. The two types of amounts to create travertine tiles. The travertine itself is the same for both types of tile. So, it is only the type of cut that makes the stone differ in appearance.

1. Vein cut

Vein cutting describes the cutting process by which a cut is made against the bedding floors or along the vein.

2. Cup of flowers:

The flower cut, also known as a cross-cut, is a cut parallel to the seat plane.  This cut results in a solid tile; however, it is not ideal for high-traffic areas due to the holes that can appear during heavy use. After installation, if spots appear, it is standard practice to fill those holes instead of replacing the tile.

Conclusion:

Travertine floor tiles range in colour from cream to beige to grey and can be mottled, cloudy, or with distinct veins. Unfilled travertine tiles have a naturally textured surface, and when filled, sharpened, and cut with a straight edge, travertine provides a perfectly flat, elegant, and contemporary feeling. It will be the best choice to renew your home. In this guide, I provide you with all about it.

Richard

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