Flooring trends are changing, and it is important to make sure you invest in the right type of flooring that will meet your needs and impress guests. Your flooring should last for many years, so being satisfied with your choice is the first priority. At PT Flooring, we can help you go over options that fit within your budget and design goals.

One flooring option that is growing in popularity is the travertine tile. But is this option a good choice for your home or office, or is it another swing and a miss?

Let’s first start by defining what travertine tile is, and then we will discuss the pros and cons of this type of flooring to help you make the best decision for your residence.

What is Travertine Tile?

Travertine is a type of stone naturally deposited by geothermal hot springs. Travertine is considered a type of limestone, and usually found in large mineral deposits. Large blocks are formed, which are then taken to stone quarries to be broken down into smaller blocks.

Travertine is found widely in Italy and is a popular stone utilized for various building and construction projects in that country. In fact, many ancient temples and hot baths are built from this material (neat huh?). It comes naturally in a variety of colors, making this stone material a unique consideration for your floors.

The Benefits of Travertine Flooring

Every type of flooring has its benefits and its drawbacks. Travertine is no exception!

Here are some of the best reasons to invest in travertine flooring:

• It is more economical than marble flooring.
• Travertine comes in a wide variety of colors.
• Travertine adds value to your home.
• This type of flooring is extremely durable. It is water and moisture resistant and does not crack easily.
• Travertine tile is easy to replace.
• If you like being environmentally-friendly, travertine tile is a good choice! Unlike marble or porcelain, there is no manufacturing process involved.

The Cons of Travertine Flooring

There are a few drawbacks to this type of flooring, and it is important to consider these before making your choice.

• Travertine stone is porous. The holes are noticeable, which comes down to style preference. After time, these holes will begin to tear. Regular maintenance is necessary for this type of flooring.
• The flooring is highly reactive to acidic substances. Juice, coffee, or alcohol spills may ruin your flooring. If you have children in the home, this is something to consider.
• You cannot clean travertine with vinegar or salt. Vinegar is too acidic, and both items are too harsh. Be prepared to spend a little more on cleaning products.
• The tiles are extremely heavy. This may make installation tricky, as you have to lift the tiles. Transporting the tiles can be more expensive, also.
• Speaking of expensive, travertine can be more costly than other types of flooring.
• Travertine is only available in neutral tones, but the shade and structure will not be homogeneous due to the nature of the stone.

To Travertine or Not to Travertine?

Whether or not to use travertine comes down to personal preference. If you have a decent budget for flooring, have low traffic in your home, and want a formal look that will add value to your home, travertine is a good choice. At PT Flooring, we will help you assess your needs and determine the best type of flooring for you!

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