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Natural Travertine Flooring and Paving Stone
Some interesting information on travertine natural stone used for travertine paving and travertine flooring.
Travertine is one of several natural stones that are used for paving patios and garden paths with travertine paving. It is sometimes known as travertine limestone, sometimes as travertine marble; these are the same stone. The travertine natural stone is characterized by pitted holes and troughs in its surface. Although these troughs occur naturally, they suggest to some eyes that considerable wear and tear has occurred over many years. Some installers fill these holes, whereas others leave them open, travertine flooring can even be purchased "filled" or "unfilled." It can be effectively polished to a smooth, shiny finish and comes in a variety of colors from grey to coral-red. Travertine is most commonly available in tile sizes for floor installations.
In addition to Applestone, marble, slate, and granite, travertine has long been a popular material for stone tile flooring. Travertine is a type of limestone composed of a material of calcium carbonate which is produced from deposits built up over time from rivers, springs, and other subterranean water sources. The resultant stone is a smooth, porous, naturally decorative material which offers a soft cream hue, an overall old-world beauty, and a dense and durable surface.
Travertine can be cut on either a "vein" cut, which is against the bedding so the bedding plane is revealed, or a "fleuri" cut, which is along the bedding plane and reveals a flowery, often circular pattern. This cut is also referred to as a "crosscut" pattern. The distinctive holes and cavities in the travertine are formed by gas that escapes during the stones formation. These small pits may be filled with matching Portland cement, coloured epoxy, or polyester resins.
Some of the common finishes available on travertine natural stone are:
Tumbled: The tumbled travertine paving stone is tumbled with sand, pebbles, or steel bearings to create a weathered, aged finish to the travertine.
Filled: Natural travertine stone comes with pores or small holes where gases were once trapped. These holes are usually filled in with matching Portland cement, coloured epoxy, or polyester resins in order to create a uniform surface.
Unfilled: The natural finish of the stone is unfilled, leaving the pores and holes in the travertine exposed.
Regardless of the type of surface to be maintained, all travertine tiles should be protected with a sealer.