Thinking of renovating your kitchen? Maybe you’ve already chosen the new fridge, brand new cabinets and other fixtures to have in place. But have you also considered a travertine backsplash?
Backsplashes of all kinds are not only useful, but also bring a beautiful new dimension to any kitchen. Travertine backsplashes in particular offer a unique style and luxury for any kitchen is installed in. You can usually find a travertine backsplash in any assortment of the following colors: beige, creams, gold, ivory, gray, coral red and deep walnut tones.
If you’re looking for a travertine backsplash, chances are you’ll find them in tile form in any of the following sizes:
- 12×12 inches
- 18 × 18 inches
- Rectangular shapes
What is travertine
Travertine is commonly found in Turkey, Italy, Mexico and Peru. This stone forms from geothermal springs. In its natural form, often algae, macrophytes, and other organisms can be found living on the service, which is what also causes the holes or “porosity” of the rock (don’t worry, if If you’re not a fan of the “hole” look, installers often fill these with grout. You’ll find them in “filled” and “unfilled” forms.
Travertine is a natural stone, which makes it extremely durable and hard.
Why choose a travertine backsplash
Not just adding a travertine backsplash improve the appearance and value of your homebut it is also very unique and is a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
With proper maintenance, a travertine backsplash will last for decades. You also have a wide choice of different finishes for it:
- Polished (glossy and almost mirror-like appearance)
- Polished (smooth and slightly shiny)
- Brushed (for a grainy, natural look)
- Tumbled (more texture than grain, also a very natural look)
Unlike other areas of the kitchen, when properly cared for, a travertine backsplash will also not stain or discolor, so it will constantly keep your kitchen looking fresh and fashionable.
The cost of a travertine backsplash
For travertine tiles, the price can start from about $2 and up per square foot (this usually does not include the cost of installation). If you have noticed that some travertine tiles are more expensive than others, this is because the following factors are taken into account:
- Where is the travertine from
- The size of the tiles
- Tile thickness
- Color rarity
- Rarity or “trend” of the model
- Coverage size
Travertine backsplash buying tips
1. It is always recommended that, when buying tiles, buy too much rather than too little. This way, if any tiles are damaged or if you need more coverage, you will have the same style of travertine backsplash tiles. You also want to be sure to spend the extra money to buy tiles that have been calibrated and chamfered (these are higher quality tiles that are sure to last).
2. If you are torn about what finish to have on your tiles, consider having them polished and filled as they are much simpler to clean. Also consider mixing and matching both tile sizes and colors to create a completely unique and personalized travertine backsplash.
3. In case, you already have a travertine floor, you may want to choose the same travertine as your backsplash (probably, a smaller size). Or perhaps, if you have a travertine countertop, continue the counter to the wall, with the same backsplash – making it consistent in appearance.
4. If you use large travertine tiles, you have less to clean as you reduce the number of grout lines.
5. Lighter shades reflect more light on work surfaces – such as your sink, cooking range and countertops.
6. You can use your travertine backsplash in brick fashion. These are made of small rectangular travertine tiles, and look very attractive. You will find this available in small tiles on sheets, and to facilitate easy installation, the sheets are supported by a strong mesh.
How to install your travertine backsplash
As with installing most rock-like surfaces, it’s best to call a professional to install them for you. If handled incorrectly, travertine has been known to break or chip easily, either during the installation process or later.
The installer ensures that the surface you are using is both dry, clean and flat (this may require some minimal sanding) and then places the tiles in such a way that the spaces between them are as straight and thin as possible. . The tiles will then be leveled and any gaps and spaces will be filled with grout. A sealant is then applied, although take note of how this is done: you too will need to seal your travertine backsplash from time to time.
Knowing where your layout is going is also important and the size and placement of the cuts are crucial to the look and strength of the finished travertine backsplash.
How to keep your travertine backsplash looking new
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to maintain the appearance of your travertine. Since travertine is a very porous rock, it is important to clean it with warm soapy water only and not to use any other type of chemicals or abrasive materials. Be sure to also clean up any tomato, orange juice or other acid-type stains as they occur as these can discolor and stain your travertine backsplash.
