Outdoor rooms, outdoor furniture and outdoor kitchens have all become common terms in landscaping, but another familiar indoor material is also ideal for outdoor use. The same Travertine stone seen in beautiful kitchens and baths is a versatile product with a proven history of durability outdoors.
Travertine, sometimes called Travertine Limestone or Travertine Marble, is not truly either. It is a type of limestone that formed near mineral rich hot springs, it is a younger form of marble that is more closely related to the stalactites found in caves.
Bubbles rising through the water as the stone forms give Travertine its characteristically pitted surface, while mineral impurities create the unique veins of color. These earth tone colors may vary from pale ivory and cream to walnut and gold. No two pieces are alike!
A Proven History of Strength
Despite its elegant appearance, Travertine is a surprisingly durable material. The Coliseum in Rome is clad in Travertine, which is thought to have been quarried in nearby Tivoli, Italy. Travertine derives its name from Tivoli, formerly known as Tibur, where it was originally known as “Tibur stone”.
It is more widely available than marble, making Travertine one of the most frequently used building materials in modern architecture too. It is used to clad some of the most famous buildings in New York City and Washington, DC. Unlike manmade products it can withstand decades, even centuries, of weather without deteriorating. In fact, its color even improves with age.
Travertine has been tested to ASTM-C1026 standards, being subjected to 15-year cycles of freezing temperatures. It does not expand and contract drastically in these conditions, making it extremely durable.
It has twice the strength of concrete and 3cm pavers are even suitable for driveways, having been rated to 5000 PSI, Pounds per Square Inch. Unlike concrete and other manmade products, Travertine does not effloresce, a process where minerals leach out and leave the surface of a material with a hazy white appearance.
Functional Benefits
Travertine is available in honed, polished and tumbled finishes. The pitted surface can be filled in with epoxy or left in its natural state for a warm, aged look that will develop a beautiful patina.
It requires little or no maintenance. Travertine is a porous calcium material and may stain. Sealing the stone can prevent stains and will bring out the color. If used in a dry laid application though, with no filler or sealant, the rain will flush out any stains to the porous stone.
Its porous character makes Travertine a natural insulator too, keeping it cool even in full sun and giving it a non-slip surface. These qualities make it an ideal surface for patios and pool areas. In fact, because it absorbs water, its traction even increases when wet.
Versatile Options
Travertine is not only available in a variety of colors and finishes but also a range of products. Thinly cut tiles are suitable for mortared applications including counter-tops and back splashes, while thicker pavers are preferred for a dry-laid application.
Using squares of the same size will result in an elegant tile effect. For added interest, mixed sized stones can be laid in a pattern. Circle kits and even mosaics can be used to create unique effects and personalize a space.
Travertine is not limited to flooring though. It can be carved into columns, with detailed capitol and base, which can be used to support a shady pergola or dress up the façade of a home. Turned balustrades and railing add a grand effect to steps, where Travertine treads can also be used.
Wall caps, pool coping and fireplace mantles with carved edges are available. Even fountains and statues can be created with this versatile material. The selection of colors and products available make Travertine suited to many styles of architecture and décor.
If you are searching for something different to add a unique and elegant look to your outdoor living space, consider the enduring and classic beauty of Travertine.
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