What are the downsides of travertine?

Travertine has several disadvantages to consider:

• It’s porous and susceptible to etching from acidic substances
• Requires regular maintenance and sealing
• Can be scratched relatively easily
• Natural holes and pits can trap dirt and debris
• More expensive than some alternative materials
• Cracking under extreme temperature changes
• Often requires professional installation

Should you seal or polish travertine?

Yes, you should seal travertine. Sealing helps protect the stone from staining, etching, and water damage. As for polishing:

• Sealing is necessary for all travertine installations (indoor and outdoor)
• Reapplication of sealer is recommended every 1-3 years, depending on use
• Polishing is optional, but it can enhance appearance and provide additional protection
• A honed (matte) finish requires less maintenance than polished finishes

What damages travertine?

Travertine can be damaged by:

• Acidic substances (citrus, vinegar, wine, coffee)
• Abrasive cleaners and tools
• Heavy impacts that can crack or chip the stone
• Freezing temperatures can cause expansion and cracking
• Standing water that can penetrate and stain
• Dragging heavy furniture across the surface
• Improper cleaning products (especially those with high pH)

Does travertine tile get hot in the sun?

Travertine does absorb heat, but it doesn’t get as hot as some other materials:

• It warms up in direct sunlight but stays cooler than materials like concrete or ceramic tile
• Light-colored travertine reflects more heat than darker varieties
• Though warmer than grass, it’s comfortable enough for pool decking and patios
• Its heat-resistant properties make it suitable for outdoor use in hot climates

Does travertine mold easily?

Travertine itself doesn’t promote mold growth, but:

• Its porous nature can allow moisture to collect if not properly sealed
• Poor drainage in outdoor installations can lead to mold or mildew issues
• Regular cleaning and proper sealing significantly reduce mold risk
• Ventilation in indoor installations helps prevent moisture buildup

Should you pressure wash travertine?

Pressure washing travertine requires caution:

• Low pressure settings only (1200-1500 PSI maximum)
• A wide spray nozzle to distribute water pressure
• Keep the nozzle several inches from the surface
• Test in an inconspicuous area first
• Better alternatives include gentle scrubbing with soft brushes
• Pressure washing can damage the sealer, requiring more frequent reapplication

Does travertine chip easily?

Travertine has moderate durability when it comes to chipping:

• It’s more prone to chipping than granite or marble
• Edges and corners are particularly vulnerable
• Dropped heavy objects can cause chips or cracks
• Filled travertine is more resistant to chipping than unfilled travertine
• Regular sealing helps strengthen the surface somewhat
• Proper installation reduces the likelihood of chips occurring

How long does travertine tile last?

With proper maintenance, travertine can be highly long-lasting:

• Properly maintained travertine can last 50+ years
• Many ancient Roman structures built with travertine still exist after thousands of years
• Regular sealing every 1-3 years extends the lifespan significantly
• Indoor installations typically last longer than outdoor ones
• Climate factors affect longevity for outdoor installations
• Proper installation substantially impacts the overall lifespan

What shouldn’t be used on travertine floors?

Avoid these products and techniques on travertine:

• Acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice, citrus-based products)
• Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool
• Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners
• Generic bathroom or tile cleaners
• Harsh chemicals or solvents
• Vacuum cleaners with beater bars
• Alkaline cleaners (can cause etching)

Does travertine crack easily?

Travertine has moderate resistance to cracking:

• More prone to cracking than granite but less than slate
• Proper installation with adequate support prevents most cracking
• Extreme temperature changes can cause expansion and contraction, leading to cracks
• Heavier items dropped on the surface can cause cracks
• Using appropriate underlayment reduces the risk of cracking
• Filled travertine is less likely to develop cracks than unfilled travertine.

Should travertine be shiny?

The shine level of travertine is a personal preference:

• Traditionally available in polished (shiny), honed (semi-matte), or tumbled (rustic) finishes
• Polished travertine shows scratches more readily and requires more maintenance
• Honed finishes balance some shine with practicality
• Tumbled/matte finishes hide imperfections better and require less maintenance
• Outdoor installations typically use tumbled or honed finishes for slip resistance
• The appropriate shine depends on the location and desired aesthetic

How often should you mop travertine floors?

For optimal maintenance:

• Dry mop or sweep daily to remove grit and debris
• Damp mop weekly with a pH-neutral stone cleaner
• Address spills immediately to prevent staining
• Deep clean every 2-3 months with a stone-safe cleaner
• Avoid excessive water when mopping
• Use microfiber mops rather than string mops
  • • Consider professional cleaning annually for high-traffic areas

      We provide Travertine Polishing, Restoration, and Sealing in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Encino, Santa Monica, Studio City, and surrounding areas.