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Travertine Countertops

Evoking a feeling of aniquity within your kitchen can be as adding travertine. Formed deep underground near hot bubbling springs, its classic pits and pores reflect true essence of old-world style.

The variety of shapes and sizes offered within the travertine family are truly remarkable, and it can be found in both tile and slab formats. Tile sizes range from miniature mosaics to the grand 36-inch tile. It may come as a pleasant surprise to learn that a travertine tile countertop can be installed at or below the cost of a mid-grade laminate - just imagine the difference.

Travertine Color Variations

Travertine's color palette normally resides within the confines o fearth tones, beginning with the palest hues of ivory and descending down through the reach, deep shades of gold, red, and brown. Its predominant color trait is that it actually never appears as one solid color, but instead the perception is swayed by inherent tonal variations and veining characteristics. Only after laying out a sizable portion of tile do you begin to perceive the overall coloration.

Texture

Just as diverse as the avaliable sizes and color tones of travertine is the vast array of surface textures. While honed remains the most popular for slabs, choices for tile include saw-cut, polished, tumbled, chieseled-edge, pillowed, brushed, bush hammered, and undulated. Some of these tile finishes are not prticularly suitable for countertop surfaces, such as pollowed or undulating finish.

Sealing

The down side of travertine is the tendency toward surface etching and staining. A good impregnating sealer will provide protection from staining, but any acidic liquid spil will leave that dreaded etched area or ring on the stone's surface. In the case of severe etching, a qualified professional will need to be consulted regarding refinishing. Keeping your travertine countertop looking new is as simple as using coasters and cutting boards rutinely.

It is important to understand the nature of this stone prior to selecting it as a countertop material. In its natural state, tiny depressions and holes exist on the surface, however there are several options availaable if this look is not to your fancy. Filled travertine is created when a factoey applies stone dust resin to the surface, resulting in a smooth and level plane.

Travertine can also be ordered in its natural state, or un-filled, and you can request that your tile installer fill the holes with a matching grout or clear epoxy. It is important to note that when the installer fills the pores, slight depressions may remain. The final option is to leave the surface natural and allow it to acqire a beautiful patina over time.

Regardless of color, size or finish, travertine's appeal as a countertop material continues to become increasingly popular among designers and those who seek to capture the essence of a classic aged beauty.