Travertine Pool Pavers FAQ
A continuing trend in home floor improvement is the use of travertine. Travertine pool pavers are used to put an outdoor floor or patio area around a swimming pool. Travertine pavers are also used to create a seamless transition from the outside living spaces to the indoors. Some even continue the design flow by using travertine inside the home for flooring. This application method is a great way to bring the outside in with you. In order to assist you with choosing whether or not travertine pool pavers might be a good choice for you, we have assembled some of the most commonly asked questions regarding travertine.
What is travertine pavers made of?
Travertine is a mineral deposit (rock) that is the result of calcium carbonate minerals forming layers that eventually build up to form travertine stone. Travertine is also what cave formations are made of.
Where does travertine come from?
Travertine is found in relatively good supply in many regions of the world including Peru, Italy, the United States and other locations throughout the globe.
Why use travertine for a pool patio area?
Travertine has many desirable qualities for pool areas. Some key benefits are:
• Does not get hot and burn feet like many other surfaces can.
• The travertine creates a non slip patio surface.
• Travertine does not fade or loose its autumn like colors when exposed to the sun.
• Travertine does not interact with the elements to form white deposits on the surface. It also tolerates water exposure extremely well, and is not as prone to wear and weathering as easily as some other surfaces.
• Travertine is easier to manipulate into intricate spaces.
How does the cost of travertine pool pavers compare to other types of pavers that are on the market?
Travertine will be more costly than concrete or brick pavers but less expensive than most other decorative cobblestone pavers on the market. They are a durable long lasting paver in a medium pricing range.
Is travertine more difficult to install than concrete pavers?
No. Travertine pavers are installed with the exact same dry laid method. The dry method does not usually use mortar. They are some of the easier items when installing pavers for beginning or experienced do it yourself people.
What color choices do I have with travertine?
The palette of colors found in travertine is usually browns, beiges, oranges, muted reds and light gray. The real beauty of travertine is the natural patterns found in the stone. Concentric circles and shapes give the stone its artistic design appeal.
Are there different types of travertine stone?
The types of travertine are not different types of the stone, but rather different finishing techniques. Depending on the amount of finishing work will determine the smoothness (or roughness) of the paver.
Tumbled travertine has a rough natural look and feel to it. For a more finished look; honed travertine is available. Honing is the polishing or sanding of the paver surface. Finally for a very polished look (for interior floors for instance); honed and filled travertine is available. This process fills any noticeable holes or blemishes in the paver surface and then polishes the surface smooth (making the filled areas unnoticeable). The amount of finishing will affect the cost of travertine pool pavers. Generally speaking the smoother the finish; the more expensive the tile.
