Travertine is a highly porous stone that requires a specific type of tile sealer. You will want to look for the travertine sealers which contain a  stone penetrating formula. These travertine sealers feature a micro-molecular formula which actually bonds to the tile surface. This gives the tile a strong layer of wear- resistance and durability.  Sealing travertine tile floors with this product, will actually make the tile resistant to staining making it easier to clean and keeping your travertine floors looking as good as the day you installed them . When selecting a sealer for your travertine tile be sure to read the label to be sure it offers the finish you desire. Most sealer manufacturers offer several types of finishes, semi-gloss, hi-gloss and matte. Hi-gloss sealer will give you a very shiny almost wet look, semi-gloss will add a dull shine to you travertine, and matte sealer will preserve the natural finish of your stone. As with any chemical product be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions. 

Tools and materials needed to seal travertine tile:
1. A cleaning product designed for natural stone. Read more about cleaning travertine tile here.
2. Travertine stone sealer.
3. Dust mop or broom.
4. Vacuum.
5. Spray bottle.
6. Water.
7. Soft cloths.

Ok…let get started sealing you travertine!

1. Make sure there is no temporary wax coating applied to the tile. This type of coating will have to be removed before you will be able to seal the tile. Check with the tile manufacturer.

2. Clean the travertine tile with the cleaner that is recommended by the manufacturer. A mild alkaline cleaner usually works best.

3. Add water to the tile using a spray bottle and cover entire surface. Let the water stand on the tile for a few minutes.

4. Begin applying the sealer. Make sure you cover the entire surface. This is an important step in sealing travertine tiles.

5. Wait approximately 30 minutes. You can begin to wipe excess sealer with a clean cloth.

6. You can remove excess build-up of sealer by applying a little more product. Then re-wiping the area again.

7. Important! Allow your sealed travertine floor to cure for 48 hours. This will help to achieve a good strong seal.

Always seal your travertine tile according to the manufacturers directions. Be sure to  clean your travertine tile regularly. Proper travertine floor care is very important to maintain the natural beauty and elegance of your travertine tile floor.

 

Travertine Natural Color Variations

Travertine Floors are available in a wide variety of colors. When choosing the flooring for you, it is important to take into account your own personal taste. The color should suit your home and should add the effect to your home decor that you wish for it to have. For example, one popular color, Walnut Travertine, can have a different affect than ivory. walnut travertine floor tiles are a darker, almost brown color that can change the mood and feel of the home environment. Ivory travertine is lighter and adds a classic elegant look. Other popular colors besides walnut travertine, like Oro Crema, add a neutral tint, making for a more traditional, warm feeling. Other popular travertine colors include brown,  gold, vanilla , and cream.

 

Honed Travertine Tile

Honed travertine floor tiles are achieved by polishing  the stone much like granite or marble. It often results in a smooth, shiny, and flat surface. Polished and honed surfaces are among the most popular and can be used to create a refined and finished look within the home or any other room or building.

 

Tumbled Travertine Tile

Tumbled travertine mosaic tile, unlike honed and polished, are not as smooth and shiny. They are offer a flat finished and are much more porous and textured than honed travertine tile. Though these styles are not as popular as the honed and polished looks, tumbled travertine mosaic tile and brushed tiles can still add style and texture to any home. Tumbled travertine is often used in kitchen backsplashes, fireplaces, showers and tub surrounds.

 

Where to Install Travertine Tile

Travertine floor tiles can be used in virtually any location within or outside  the home. They can also be used in buildings, offices, and bathrooms. Travertine tile flooring is perfect for showers, countertops, tile backsplashes, and outdoor patio areas. Travertine floors are also widely used in upscale office buildings, shopping malls, airports, resorts and schools due to it’s incredible beauty and durability.