Travertine Countertops
Travertine is a stunning natural stone that is perfect for use in kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, backsplashes, and more. It offers a subtle and light touch that adds an elegant and refined look to any room. With its long streaks and uniform color, it is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. However, spills must be taken care of carefully since travertine is susceptible to damage from acidic substances like coffee, soda or juice. With proper care and maintenance, travertine can continue to look great for years to come.
While travertine can be used for kitchen countertops, extra caution is needed in high traffic areas and it is best suited for lower traffic areas of the home. This is because the kitchen sees a lot of activity which increases the risk of accidental spills on the surface of the stone.
Despite its relatively high cost, travertine is worth the investment due to the high quality of natural stone it provides. It is among the most elegant and classy building materials available on the market today. Like limestone, travertine is a soft and delicate stone with a unique texture. It features small holes, troughs, and swirls of color that never cease to enchant viewers. These colors are formed by mineral impurities in the earth, such as iron.
During installation, the tiny holes in the stone are filled with colored grout, and the porous surface is sealed to prevent liquid intrusion. However, acidic substances like vinegar, coffee, wine, or juice must be wiped up immediately to prevent staining or etching on the surface. Furthermore, metal pots, pans, utensils, or even Iron Age swords can scratch the surface of travertine, which makes it unsuitable for high traffic areas.
Nevertheless, travertine is a durable material with a remarkable history. In fact, the ancient Romans used travertine as their preferred building material for structures like the Coliseum and aqueducts, some of which are still standing after two thousand years. It is therefore an excellent choice for homeowners who desire to add a touch of beauty and history to their home.
