Travertine , limestone ’s sister , is another top stone for a deluxe look in the kitchen , bath , or outdoor place .

Paul Dyer

For homeowners looking to refashion their kitchen or lavatory , take stone and tiles is one of the most important choice to make . While any stone is fit for a home remodel , for a sweet option , considerlimestone and travertine — limestone ’s look - alike sibling . Both are pop up in high - end kitchens and bathroom redesigns .

bathroom with travertine floors

Credit:Paul Dyer

Much of the room ’s design will rotate around these features , which genuinely delineate the space . Marble and granite are first-class choice , with their beautiful vein and mellow - gloss shine , but they ’ve been ubiquitous in homes for X .

Characteristics

Limestone and travertine are both natural rocks with lenient matte appearances , subtle mutation , and a sophisticated , timeless tactile property . In other words , it ’s the unruffled luxury of stone . Limestone also has a born glow which make it an ideal software for afireplace surroundor hearth whether the ardour is on or not .

Travertine comes in a variety of natural tone so that a salmagundi of originative blueprint and formula is possible . It can give a quad different characteristics , such as trite grandeur or unsophisticated snugness .

But just because it ’s beautiful does n’t mean it ’s ideal to use everywhere . These cloth require special care and are n’t worthy for all software . If you ’re study acquaint limestone or travertine to your home , study on to get everything you need to know about the difference between these two stunning stones before you add them to your restoration .

What are limestone and travertine?

Like marble , limestone and travertine are natural fabric . However , they have different origins . Both are sedimentary rocks , but limestone is made from minerals and flat shells of lilliputian aquatic fauna ( which can sometimes be seen in the final product ) , while travertine kind around hot springtime or other areas of high mineral compactness .

Both I. F. Stone come in softened , neutral colors , making them gentle to use in various excogitation styles . While they have some striation and veining , it ’s broadly speaking much less than marble or granite . They ’re polished just enough to create a smooth aerofoil but not so much that they become shiny . The result is a aerofoil that feels plentiful with a pernicious grain .

We ’re seeing a grow grasp for Greco-Roman design , and these stones fit perfectly with that vogue . Their timeless look is not bad for long - term time value and are materials that can hike yourhome ’s resale economic value .

How and Where to use Limestone and Travertine Stone

Though they may look likewise , the properties of these two textile mean you may need to use them in different ways throughout your home . Limestone is more expensive than travertine , but it ’s also more indestructible and involve less upkeep . That ’s because travertine may involve to have its small , naturally - occurring holes fill to make it easier to pick .

For limestone , that means sealing them about every three to four years , and for travertine , it means approximately once every one to three years — it ’s a bit of a commitment but not too much to manage .

Flooring in Various Areas

Generally , both materials can be used as take aback . In fact , their lustrelessness finish can mean they ’re less slippery when wet , making them a secure choice for privy . Limestone and travertine can also be used alfresco as pavers , plus their natural properties keep them nerveless , so they ’re idealistic to employ around a pool deck where masses are barefoot in the summer . Front entrywayfloors lined with limestone award a warmth to a welcome plate .

But , because of their softer nature , they ’re more prostrate to damage than some other Stone . This can intend chipping , so it ’s not a great choice for a high-pitched - traffic area . However , what wear down - and - tear looks like is subjective ; the Lincoln Memorial and the Great Sphinx are made of limestone , which demonstrate to the cloth ’s seniority . In general , limestone is a better choice than travertine for most flooring scenarios .

Countertop Surfaces

Both look lovely as bathroom orkitchen countertopsand backsplashes , but they ’re also more poriferous , which intend they can absorb liquids and stain more easy than other materials . Their lifelike grain , while beautiful , can top to some issues with cleaning . You ’ll desire to reseal them occasionally to control they stay in peak - top condition . For limestone , that means seal them about every three to four long time , and for travertine , it means approximately once every one to three years — it ’s a number of a commitment but not too much to manage .

Factor In Maintenance

Remember , all stone ask some maintenance , and when we ’re talking about limestone being easygoing , this is comparative . Many large edifice and even the heavy pyramids are made from this cloth , so clearly , it can stand the trial run of time . If you love this look , do n’t be deterred . With thrifty app program and good precaution , limestone and travertine can enhance the beauty of your home for years to come .