Soothing Travertine Floors - A Hot Trend in Stone Tile Flashcards
Soothing Travertine Floors - A Hot Trend in Stone Tile
Soothing Travertine Floors: A Hot Trend in Stone Tile
Travertine tile is becoming a popular choice for home flooring. The natural stone has a smooth, soothing look that can make any room feel more relaxed.
What is Travertine?
Travertine is a kind of limestone that forms from mineral hot springs. The stone forms when the hot water cools down and leaves behind calcium carbonate deposits. These deposits build up over time to form travertine rock.
Travertine often has small holes or pits on its surface. This natural texture gives it a rustic and earthy feel. The stone comes in soft, creamy colours like ivory, tan, gold and rusty red. All of these warm hues can create a calming vibe in your home.
Benefits of Travertine Floors
There are many reasons why travertine tile floors are trending right now:
Natural Beauty
Travertine has an organic, natural look that brings the outdoors in. The stone’s subtle colours and patterns resemble scenes in nature, like a mossy forest floor or the flow of a creek. Travertine’s texture creates depth and visual interest.
Durability
As a form of limestone, travertine is very dense and hard-wearing. Properly sealed and maintained, travertine floors can last for decades. The tile stands up well to heavy foot traffic. It is not easily scratched or chipped.
Easy Maintenance
Travertine is non-porous when sealed, so it does not easily stain. Simple sweeping or mopping is often enough to keep it looking fresh. Occasional resealing will protect the surface. Avoid harsh cleaners that can eat away at the sealant.
Versatility
Travertine tile comes in a range of sizes, shapes and finishes. Popular options include larger rectangular tiles, small mosaics, soft tumbled pieces and chiselled edge styles. This versatility allows travertine floors to suit any room and decor.
Resale Value
Natural stone floors like travertine can significantly increase a home’s value. The tile’s timeless, organic look appeals to many buyers. Travertine is considered an upgrade material that sets a property apart.
Stylish Travertine Floors for Every Room
Travertine tile brings a cohesive yet unique look throughout the home. Here are some ideas for popular rooms:
Bathrooms
The spa-like vibe of travertine is perfect for bathrooms. Use large tiles on the floors and smaller mosaics on walls or in shower niches. The stone’s pitted texture adds grip, preventing slips. Soft tan travertine resembles beach sand for breezy baths.
Kitchens
In kitchens, ivory travertine floors complement most cabinets, counters and backsplashes. The tile stands up well to dropped utensils, spills and high-traffic areas like work triangles. A chiselled edge profile adds definition. Coordinate with a travertine backsplash.
Living Spaces
For relaxed living rooms and dens, travertine creates an inviting backdrop. The stone’s organic patterns and warm colours pair nicely with cozy furnishings and textiles. Use travertine tile area rugs on your current flooring.
Patios
Bring travertine outdoors to porches, patios and pool decks. The durable stone holds up in outdoor settings. Travertine’s natural, roughhewn look complements gardens, landscapes and water features. Use travertine pavers or larger tile sizes outside.
Tips for Purchasing Travertine
If you are interested in installing travertine floors, keep these tips in mind:
View tile samples in person. Colours and patterns can vary. Order samples to view in your space.
Consider honed, tumbled or chiselled edge finishes. These soften the look of travertine.
Determine thickness needed based on application - indoor or outdoor use.
Ask about sealants applied to the tile at the quarry. Pre-sealed travertine saves installation time.
Calculate 10-15% extra for waste, odd spaces and future repairs. Too little tile causes problems later.
Hire an experienced stone tile installer. Proper thin-set mortar and grout joints are key.
Caring for Travertine Floors
Travertine requires some periodic maintenance to look its best and last for many years:
Sweep or mop floors regularly to prevent dirt buildup in pits.
Reapply sealant every 1-2 years per manufacturer instructions. This protects the surface.
Use mild cleaners without acid or abrasives. Avoid vinegar, citrus and harsh chemicals.
Rinse spills quickly to prevent stains, especially wine, coffee and oil.
Place rugs at high-traffic entryways to prevent excessive wear and scratches.
Consider professional cleaning services every few years to deep clean and reseal.
Create Your Own Travertine Oasis
With its laidback natural beauty and longevity, travertine tile is a smart investment. This stone is rapidly rising in popularity for its soothing vibe and versatility throughout homes. Bring a sense of peaceful tranquillity into your rooms with the modern rustic look of travertine floors.
