How Travertine Tile Is Prepared For Flooring and Wall Tile

As old an option it is for a sturdy and reliable building material, travertine tile remains to be a highly diverse natural stone, suitable for all kinds of applications. Travertine was used in the ancient world, but can also be found as a major component of many modern buildings such as the Getty Centre in Los Angeles, and the UCLA medical centre. Travertine tile is used as floor tile in both residential and commercial settings, as well as a decorative option for wall cladding and backsplashes. Travertine tile has both indoor and outdoor uses, being a durable stone, and can be both functional and aesthetically striking.

Processing travertine tile

Travertine is removed from the earth in large blocks before it is cut into what can be recognized as travertine tile. It may be cut in any of the following ways:

• Cross-cut – The travertine is cut with the grain of the stone bedding and on the same layer as it is formed in the earth. This makes for a more uniform texture and color

• Vein cut – the travertine is cut across several layers of the stone bedding, making for a more mottled, tiger-stripe effect when cut into tiles

After the travertine is quarried, it is strictly selected for color variances, and further assessed after it is cut for holes and chipped edges. Beyond the selection process, the travertine may be subject to any of the following processes

• Honed – the surface of the tile is sanded to create a matte finish

• Tumbled – the travertine is literally tumbled with gravel and bearings, giving it a rough-hewn, aged appearance.

• Brushed – a wire brush is used to give the surface of the travertine tile a worn, textured surface

• Filled – The pores in the travertine tile are filled with colored resin or cement to produce a pristine, solid surface.

• Polished – the travertine is sanded and polished, producing a shiny look

A featured design element of which anyone would find to be a source of pride, the popularity of travertine seems to be undiminished. In fact, choosing travertine tile for flooring and for wall tile is getting to be more and more popular!

Learn more about travetine tile and buy at http://www.builddirect.com/Travertine-Tile.aspx

About The Author
Rob Jones is Communications Coordinator with BuildDirect (www.builddirect.com), a leading online wholesaler of building products. Rob writes articles for commercial contractors and DIYers on features, installation, and maintenance of building materials used in commercial and residential projects.