Travertine has always been among the top choices for many homeowners when it comes to kitchen countertops. Travertine is a natural type of stone, just like granite and marble, for residential and commercial use.
However, it is developed from calcareous rock deposited from mineral springs and used in buildings. Since it is made from springs (which gives it a distinctive look and striking appearance), it is available in various colors like ivory, beige, gold, silver, walnut, coral, cream, and shades of brown.
To get more information about other types of countertop materials for the kitchen, like engineered quartz, you can refer to this helpful Caesarstone guide.
Travertine countertops have a sophisticated look which resembles marble. Hence, they have become very popular. This stone has existed since the times of Romans. Buildings like the Colosseum are a clear example of this!
Let’s now see the travertine countertops pros and cons:
Benefits of travertine stone countertops
- Besides countertops, travertine stone can also be used for unconventionally elegant backsplashes, shower areas, and fireplace panels.
- They can easily fill the spaces where the stone tile is damaged and left void because of its easier machinability than porcelain tiles. The same application can also be used for travertine tiles if they are damaged or broken.
- They have a luxurious and eye-catching appeal with irregular veins, providing a sophisticated look that is hard to find elsewhere.
- Travertine stone countertops in kitchens and bathrooms are highly durable and last longer than other stones. They can not only endure stains but can also survive the harsh weather; therefore, they can be an excellent choice for both interior and exterior usage.
- There are plenty of sizes and designs to choose from. Hence, it is generally available in many locations.
- Travertine kitchen countertops and bathroom countertops are strong and hard. It cannot be easily cracked or scratched.
- Travertine can be used as both tiles and slabs. You have a wide variety to choose — from intricately made mosaic tiles to 36-inch travertine tiles. Its unique veins create a unique design that provides a mesmerizing and sparkling look to your house.
- Since it is a 100% natural product, it is also eco-friendly.
- It can add substantial brightness to the kitchen from its reflection of light alone.
Since, travertine countertops pros and cons depend on several factors like porosity, density, cementing material, and proportions of both hard and soft minerals. It’s worth knowing its limitations also.
Limitations of travertine stone countertops
- Such types of stone require special products for the cleaning process, as its slab requires alkaline-based products for cleaning or else there is a danger of etching. It cannot be cleaned using abrasive cleaners like bleach and ammonia. If you plan to install travertine stone countertops, clean them periodically with a specialized cloth to retain their natural beauty.
- Such countertops are highly reactive to acidic solvents like lime juice, orange juice, tomatoes, sodas, and vinegar. The staining of travertine material can take place even through minor spills. Hence, it is not recommended to use this material if you have a busy kitchen like in many households where many dishes are cooked simultaneously as in restaurants.
- Travertine stones are less heat-resistant than granite, as they can react with ultraviolet light and become dull. Therefore, it should not be exposed to extreme sunlight areas, like terraces or west-facing balconies.
- The moisture can accumulate inside because of its highly porous nature, resulting in higher bacterial growth. As a result, you need to disinfect the travertine stone regularly.
- Travertine stones are more difficult to repair than other stones in the same category.
- Besides countertops, if you are looking for travertine for flooring, it would cost more than your expectations. It is only suitable for countertops, especially in kitchens. It also has a high installation cost, as the adhesive used to join this stone is immensely expensive.
Travertine vs marble — which one to choose for your home?
Marbles are formed when limestone comes in contact with high temperature and pressure. Travertine is also formed under high pressure, formed in hot springs and limestone caves. They are created through the expulsion of gasses and hot water during formation.
Both travertine and marble can be a suitable choice for your kitchen. Also, both are strong materials. However, the travertine wins the race against marble in terms of hardness. Travertine has a hardness level of 4 to 5 on the Mohs hardness scale, while marble has a hardness level between 3 to 4.
Travertine stones are easier to cut; therefore, they are less costly than marble stones. However, sometimes, a natural travertine slab can be more expensive than cultured marble. On the other hand, marble is less vulnerable to stains than travertine.
Both travertine and marble form a wise choice for practically any residential or commercial kitchen space, as they both give an artistic appearance and natural elegance to your kitchen. A travertine countertop may be your first choice if you are looking for something unique, durable and stylish.
Is travertine stone an ideal choice for a kitchen countertop?
An ideal choice of travertine stone for kitchen countertops depends on several factors like kitchen needs. Therefore, if you want to get a travertine countertop in your kitchen, it’s highly advisable to do considerable research for a suitable color, finish, and pattern. And then check whether the travertine stone would be suitable for you.
Travertine countertops kitchen: pros and cons to consider
Concluding the entire article in short, travertine stones have a great legacy left behind by the Romans, as they used travertine stone in temples, aqueducts, amphitheaters, and monuments. It is still widely used today. Did you know Willis Tower in Chicago is made from travertine?
Since marbles are highly expensive, people with less budget opted for travertine, as they provide a similar appearance like marbles. They also can be a great alternative to expensive natural stones. It has an earthy and creamy color texture, they can be workable in any contemporary household.
Considering travertine countertops pros and cons, it makes an ideal choice for bathroom and kitchen countertops.
