If you are looking for a natural stone that can add elegance, warmth, and character to your home, travertine might be the perfect choice for you. Travertine is a type of limestone that forms in hot springs and caves, and has been used as a building material for centuries. It comes in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, and can be used for floors, walls, countertops, backsplashes, fireplaces, and more. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of choosing, installing, and maintaining travertine in your home decor as well as some tips and tricks on decorating with travertine.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type and Finish of Travertine

Travertine is available in different types and finishes, depending on the origin, quality, and processing of the stone. Some of the most common types of travertine are:

• Italian travertine, which has a smooth surface and a creamy color.

 

• Turkish travertine, which has a more textured surface and a range of colors from beige to brown.

 

• Mexican travertine, which is darker in color and has a rustic look.

 

• Travertine Giallo, which has a yellow color and a tumbled finish. 

 

• Silver travertine, which has a gray color and a metallic sheen.

 

• Silyon travertine, which has a light brown color and a honed finish.

 

• Yellow travertine, which has a golden color and a polished finish.

 

Here are a few more colors of travertine:

 

The type of travertine you choose will depend on your personal preference, budget, and the style of your home. You can also mix and match different types of travertine to create a unique and dynamic look.

The finish of travertine refers to the surface treatment of the stone, which can affect its appearance, durability, and maintenance. Some of the most popular finishes for travertine are:

• Honed, which is a smooth and matte finish that is suitable for most indoor applications, such as floors, walls, countertops, and backsplashes. It is also slip-resistant and easy to clean.

• Polished, which is a glossy and shiny finish that enhances the color and veining of the stone. It is ideal for accent walls, fireplaces, and vanity tops. It is also more resistant to stains and scratches, but can be slippery when wet and requires more frequent sealing.

• Brushed, which is a slightly textured and satin finish that gives the stone a worn and aged look. It is similar to honed, but with more depth and character. It is also good for indoor and outdoor use, especially for patios, pool decks, and walkways.

• Tumbled, which is a rough and porous finish that creates a natural and rustic look. It is achieved by tumbling the stone with sand, pebbles, or other abrasives. It is great for outdoor use, as it does not become slippery when wet and can withstand weather changes. However, it is more prone to staining and requires more sealing and cleaning.

• Chiseled, which is a finish that exposes the natural edges and texture of the stone. It is done by chipping or cutting the stone with a chisel or a saw. It is a bold and dramatic finish that can add dimension and contrast to your home decor. It is also suitable for indoor and outdoor use, but requires more care and maintenance.

Step 2: Install Travertine Properly

Travertine can be installed in different ways, depending on the type, size, and shape of the tiles or pavers, and the surface you are working on. The most common methods of installation are:

• Dry-set, which is the process of laying travertine pavers on a compacted base of sand or gravel, without using any mortar or adhesive. This method is easy, fast, and economical, and allows for easy replacement or repair of the pavers. It is also ideal for outdoor use, as it allows for drainage and expansion of the pavers. However, it is not recommended for areas with heavy traffic or uneven surfaces, as the pavers can shift or sink over time. 

• Wet-set, which is the process of laying travertine tiles or pavers on a concrete slab, using a thin layer of mortar or adhesive. This method is more durable, stable, and level, and can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications. However, it is more expensive, time-consuming, and difficult, and requires more preparation and tools. It is also important to use a flexible mortar or adhesive that can accommodate the movement of the travertine, especially in areas with temperature changes or moisture.

• Mud-set, which is the process of laying travertine tiles or pavers on a thick layer of mortar or concrete, usually over a wire mesh or a metal lath. This method is similar to wet-set, but provides more support and strength to the travertine, especially for large or heavy tiles or pavers. It is also suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, but requires more skill and expertise, and more materials and equipment.

 

Regardless of the method you choose, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations, and hire a professional installer if you are not confident or experienced in doing it yourself. You should also make sure that the surface you are installing the travertine on is clean, dry, flat, and stable, and that you have the right tools and materials for the job. Some of the tools and materials you may need are:

• A tape measure, a level, a chalk line, and a pencil or a marker for marking and measuring the surface and the travertine.
• A wet saw, a tile cutter, or a grinder for cutting the travertine to the desired size and shape.
• A trowel, a notched trowel, a margin trowel, and a rubber mallet for applying and leveling the mortar or adhesive, and setting the travertine in place.
• A sponge, a bucket, a grout float, and a grout bag for applying and cleaning the grout between the travertine tiles or pavers.
• A sealer, a roller, a brush, or a sprayer for applying the sealer to the travertine after installation.

 

Step 3: Maintain Travertine Regularly

Travertine is a beautiful and durable natural stone, but it also requires regular care and maintenance to keep it in good condition and to prevent damage and deterioration. Some of the steps you should take to maintain your travertine are:

• Seal your travertine after installation, and reseal it periodically, depending on the type, finish, and use of the stone. Sealing your travertine will protect it from stains, scratches, and moisture, and enhance its color and appearance. You should use a high-quality sealer that is suitable for travertine, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. Generally, you should seal your travertine at least once a year, or more often if it is exposed to heavy traffic or harsh conditions.
• Sweep or vacuum your travertine regularly, or whenever it is visibly dirty, to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can scratch or dull the surface of the stone. You should use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a soft attachment, and avoid using any abrasive or metal tools that can damage the stone.
• Mop or wipe your travertine weekly, or as needed, to remove any spills, stains, or residues that can discolor or etch the surface of the stone. You should use a damp mop or a soft cloth, and a mild, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive cleaner that is safe for travertine. You should avoid using any acidic, alkaline, or abrasive cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon, bleach, ammonia, or scouring pads, that can harm the stone. You should also rinse the travertine with clean water after cleaning, and dry it with a soft towel or a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.
• Polish your travertine occasionally, or as desired, to restore its shine and luster, and to remove any minor scratches or scuffs that may develop over time. You should use a polishing compound that is designed for travertine, and a polishing pad or a buffer that is suitable for the finish of the stone. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations, and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface. You should also wear protective gloves and eyewear, and work in a well-ventilated area.

 

Tips and ideas on how to use travertine in your home decor:

• The easiest and most efficient way to introduce this natural stone is to use travertine as a centerpiece decor item. You can use it as a side table, coasters or candle holder. Mix it with glass, mirrors, other natural stone, metal or wood. For decor item ideas visit our travertine collection here.  

 

• Use travertine as a backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom, to create a stylish and elegant look. You can choose from different colors, shapes, and patterns of travertine tiles, such as subway, mosaic, herringbone, or hexagon, to suit your taste and design. You can also mix travertine with other materials, such as glass, metal, or wood, to add some contrast and interest. A travertine backsplash will not only enhance the beauty of your space, but also protect your walls from splashes, spills, and stains.

 

• Use travertine as a countertop in your kitchen or bathroom, to create a durable and functional surface. Travertine is a natural stone that can withstand heat, pressure, and wear and tear, making it a great choice for countertops. You can choose from different finishes of travertine, such as honed, polished, or tumbled, to match your style and preference. You can also edge your travertine countertop with different profiles, such as bullnose, ogee, or bevel, to add some detail and character. A travertine countertop will not only provide you with a smooth and sturdy work area, but also add some value and charm to your home.

 

• Use travertine as a fireplace surround or mantel, to create a cozy and inviting focal point in your living room or bedroom. Travertine is a natural stone that can resist fire and heat, making it a safe and suitable material for fireplaces. You can choose from different colors, textures, and sizes of travertine tiles or slabs, to create a fireplace that reflects your personality and mood. You can also decorate your travertine fireplace with accessories, such as candles, vases, or pictures, to make it more personal and appealing. A travertine fireplace will not only warm up your space, but also create a relaxing and romantic atmosphere in your home.

 

• Use travertine as a flooring material in your living room, dining room, or bedroom, to create a warm and cozy ambiance. Travertine is a durable and slip-resistant stone that can withstand wear and tear, and can also add some value to your home. You can choose from different colors and patterns of travertine tiles or planks, such as ivory, walnut, or silver, to match your furniture and accessories. You can also install radiant heating under the travertine floor, to make it more comfortable and energy-efficient.

 

• Use travertine as a wall decor element in your entryway, hallway, or staircase, to create a stunning and welcoming impression. Travertine is a versatile and elegant stone that can be used as a wall cladding, a wainscoting, or a feature wall. You can choose from different finishes and sizes of travertine tiles or panels, such as honed, brushed, or chiseled, to create a texture and contrast. You can also accentuate the travertine wall with lighting, artwork, or mirrors, to make it more attractive and inviting.

 

• Use travertine as a countertop or a sink in your powder room, to create a sophisticated and luxurious look. Travertine is a natural and beautiful stone that can be carved into various shapes and designs, such as vessel, pedestal, or undermount sinks. You can choose from different colors and veins of travertine slabs or tiles, such as beige, gold, or red, to complement your vanity and faucet. You can also accessorize your travertine countertop or sink with candles, flowers, or towels, to make it more cozy and relaxing.