Travertine has been around in architecture for many years. Still, it remains one of the most popular natural flooring stones to date. It features a nice combination of earthly colors and classical charm that makes it a great option in nearly any home. Choosing the correct travertine floor tile may seem daunting, however, if you are new to natural stone. No worries. Here is an easy guide to help you pick the ideal travertine flooring for your space.
Consider where you will use it
The initial step is to think of the room. Travertine is a good choice for the:
- Living room
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Outdoor patio
- Pool deck.
Nevertheless, the specific location is important since various spaces have varied needs.
- Kitchen or bathroom: Select a water-resistant finish with traction.
- Living room or hallway: Pick a smoother, more sophisticated finish.
- Outdoor area, the patio or pool deck: Select a textured tile. This will prevent slips when wet.
Matching the travertine floor tile with the space means you will have a practical but stylish floor.
Know the various finishes
Travertine is available in four basic finishes that produce different appearances and feel:
- Honed: Even, matte finish. This is best for modern, low-care interior scenarios.
- Tumbled: Rugged and rough. It is ideal for an outdoor place or a farmhouse-like house.
- Polished: Shiny and opulent. This one fits in formal rooms and dining rooms.
- Brushed: Light texture and smooth tones. This is a flexible choice for casual areas.
When in doubt, honed is a safe bet in most homes as it is both beautiful and durable.
Choose the right color
Travertine has a natural color palette. It ranges from ivory cream to deep walnut. Lighter shades make a room airy and spacious. On the other hand, darker colors introduce warmth and coziness.
Consider your current decor. Do you have bold walls and furniture? A neutral tile will make it all even. When your space is a little basic, a deeper colour can bring depth and personality.
Choose tile size and layout
The size of tiles can tremendously impact your floor’s appearance. Larger tiles, such as 18×18 or 24×24, have fewer grout lines. Hence, a cleaner and contemporary look. On the contrary, smaller tiles such as 12×12 or even mosaics are more textured and interesting to look at.
The pattern is important as well. Straight-set is traditional, whereas designs such as herringbone or Versailles provide a bit of sophistication.
Don’t forget maintenance
Travertine is strong. However, it requires some maintenance:
- Seal it to prevent stains and spills. This is particularly important in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Clean it frequently with a pH-neutral cleaner. This will keep it in good condition.
Would you like a spectacular but low-maintenance floor? Then, a honed or brushed finish will do. Such tiles are easier to maintain than polished ones.
Final thoughts
Think about your desired look and your lifestyle when choosing travertine floor tiles. In short, consider:
- The space
- The degree of maintenance you feel comfortable enough to undertake
- The overall mood you want in your home.
Travertine flooring should last a few decades when chosen appropriately. Meanwhile, it can also introduce the beauty of nature and ancient aesthetics to your house.
