The durability of travertine is a match to the unique look which it lends to
all kinds of applications; from residences to commercial spaces. Travertine
renders a “classical” look in the truest sense that goes beyond the trends. Travertine is timeless.
Origin of travertine
Travertine is related to marble and limestone, falling somewhere between the two. Travertine is formed when subterranean rivers and lakes collect calcium carbonate and other minerals and build up layers of these materials over the course of thousands of years. The stone which is produced is a smooth, porous, and durable material.
How travertine is quarried
Travertine is taken from the rock bed in large blocks, before being cut into more manageable sizes – slabs, and tile are two examples. There are a number of approaches when it comes to cutting travertine for these uses:
- Cross-cut. This means that the travertine is cut on the same layer as it has been formed, with the grain. This allows for a more tonally unified block of travertine.
- Vein-cut. To contrast, this means that the travertine is cut as a cross-section of several layers of stone, which renders a more mottled, tiger-stripe effect.
After the travertine has been quarried, it undergoes a sorting process. Chipped edges and holes, along with sorting by color, are categorized, discarded, and grouped accordingly in a standardized selection process.
Styles of finish for travertine tile
There are a number of finishes for travertine when used as tile, each with different visual effects to offer.
- Honed – this is a matte finish create by a sanding process meant to create a more refined looking tile
- Filled – often associated with the “honed” choice in travertine tile, the filling process involves filling the minute holes which naturally occur in the stone with colored resin or cement. This brings the honed travertine to a new level of refinement, and if this is look which is desired, honed and filled travertine is a great choice
- Tumbled – the travertine tile is literally tumbled in a machine in which stones and other abrasive materials are also placed, lending the travertine an aged look. For the effect of creating an Imperial atmosphere, tumbled travertine is a typical choice that makes all the difference.
- Brushed/Chisled – similarly, this is a means of creating a seasoned look and textured feel by means of brushing the surface of the travertine tile with a coarse wire brush and/or a chisel. Antique Meandros tile is a good example of this type of surface treatment.
- Polished – the surface of the travertine is literally polished to create a shiny look common to various types of natural stone tile
Popular uses for travertine as quality building materials
Versatility is a key characteristic of travertine, due to naturally occurring and highly attractive colors, texture, and durability. From the Roman Coliseum of ancient times, to the Getty Centre in Los Angeles, to the medical centre at UCLA, travertine stands out as a decorative element, representing the legacy of Western civilization itself.
What worked for the rulers of the ancient world continue to do so today! Common uses for travertine as key building materials include:
- Floor tile
- Pavers
- Countertops and backsplashes
- Fixtures like baths and sinks
The look and practicality of travertine as flooring, wall tile, countertop surfaces, and kitchen & bath fixtures are unmatched by any other choice in building materials.