Travertine tiles are one of the most popular materials used today in stone floors, exteriors, countertops, backsplashes, bathrooms, and walls. Quarried from stone that is best described as a cross between marble and limestone, travertine has been a popular building material for thousands of years because of both its durability and the ability of masons to shape it to fit just about any purpose. Ever heard of the Roman Coliseum? Travertine. Need I say more?
What Does Travertine Look Like?
Travertine comes in a variety of colors and textures for you to choose from. Generally it ranges in color from an ivory shade to beige to a deep reddish brown. It can even be found in gold shades, depending on the level of naturally occurring iron in the stone.
As far as texture goes, it all depends on the level of finish you want for your tile. Polished travertine is smooth and closely resembles marble in appearance. Honed tiles are also smooth, but sport more of a matte finish. And for a more antiquated or natural appearance, travertine tile is also available in brushed or tumbled varieties that have more textural variations and do more to accent travertine's natural tendency to have pitted holes or troughs in the stone.
Where Can Travertine Be Used?
As mentioned before, travertine tile is a popular choice for just about any area of the home. Floors and countertops are the most popular choices, but travertine is also regularly used in showers, as backsplashes to countertops, as a wall covering, and on exterior walkways and patios. Because travertine is easier to cut and shape than some other stone materials, it can be cut to fit places where some of the less malleable stones are more difficult to install. |
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