Try Travertine Floor Tile for Rustic CharmTravertine floor tile pattern comes from unique veining characteristics and from gradations, swirls and shifts in the density and tone of the inherent color. It's typically less dramatic than marble, but it can be equally captivating... and of course it is perfect for that old-world Tuscan design theme.
Pits and pores also developed from the bubbling hot springs deep in the earth near where travertine was formed . . . enhance its rustic charm. Surface finish options for your travertine counter top and floor are numerous. The most popular finish for countertop slabs is honed, which is a "matte" or non-shiny surface. Travertine is typically not recommended for kitchen counter tops due to it's sensitivity to acidic foods and it's porosity (when honed) and susceptibility to staining with heavy use.
When polished travertine is not very absorbent, however, it will etch very easily upon contact with acidic foods (coffee, alcohol, fruit juice, salad dressing, etc.) and alkaline cleaning products leaving dull spots and "glass rings" that require re-polishing. Travertine floor tile however, can be tumbled, brushed, undulated, hammered, pillowed, polished or chisel-edged . . . and the pits and pores can and should be filled in otherwise they will simply collect dirt. Like Marble, travertine floor tile and counter tops must be treated with care. Treatment with an impregnating sealer will protect it from stains and a honed finish will keep you from fretting about dull spots from etching the polish. A honed surface will still etch, but it is not nearly as noticeable as on polished travertine. Also, routinely using coasters and cutting boards will keep your travertine looking fabulous for years to come. For more in-depth information go to cleaning travertine. One thing to note with travertine (and really all natural stone) is that they . . . age beautifully. Fears you may have about accidentally ruining your stone are really unnecessary. Certainly, performing proper care and maintenance is prudent, but unlike almost every other building material in your home . . . stone will not decay. Witness the Roman Coliseum . . .  Rather it's natural beauty and patina is only enhanced through years of use. And if you do have a catastrophic stain . . . it's good to know that it can be repaired in almost every case. back to Limestone ...from Travertine Floor Tile
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