Travertine: floors, walls and decor, what to know

Travertine is a natural limestone, recognisable by its light beige or cream tones and its small cavities and horizontal lines. It brings a warm, bright atmosphere, which explains its growing popularity for floors, walls and decorative pieces.

If you are hesitating about using it at home, this article explains what sets it apart, where to install it, how to care for it and how not to confuse it with an imitation.

What characterises travertine

A light, natural look

Travertine is recognised by its soft tones and its horizontal veining. Like any natural stone, each slab is unique: no two pieces are exactly identical.

A slightly porous stone

Its surface can show small natural cavities. Depending on the finish, they are visible or filled. This is what gives travertine its character, but it calls for a little attention when caring for it.

Finishes

A polished travertine is smooth and bright, while a more matt or raw finish gives a more rustic look. Our current reference is a polished travertine, suited to floors and interiors. For another finish, ask us: we will tell you what is possible.

Where to use travertine

• Interior floors: living room, entrance, hallway, rooms where you want light and a pleasant surface underfoot.
• Interior walls: as a decorative cladding behind a sofa, a fireplace or a headboard.
• Decor pieces: tables, consoles and tops, very sought after right now.

A polished surface can become slippery when wet: for a bathroom or an outdoor area, a more matt finish is generally preferable. Tell us how you will use it and we will advise you.

Natural travertine or travertine effect

Many products sold as “travertine” are actually ceramic tiles or coverings whose pattern imitates the stone. A printed tile repeats the same pattern and has an edge that differs from the surface, whereas in natural travertine the tone and veining continue through the thickness and change from one slab to the next. Always ask for a sample before ordering.

Care

• Clean with clear water using a cloth or soft brush, and dry the surface.
• Avoid acidic products (vinegar, descalers): they can attack a limestone.
• Wipe up staining liquids quickly, such as coffee, tea or oil.
• A protective treatment suited to the stone limits stains and makes care easier.

Delivery and installation

We arrange delivery to Taza and throughout Morocco. Installation is available on request: mention it when you ask for a quote, with the surface and the type of substrate.