CARE & MAINTENANCE
TRAVERTINE
Travertine , a type of limestone , can be left in its natural state , with no polishing . Travertine is a sedimentary rock formed from calcareous remains of plants and animals or precipitated from solution . It is natural Calcium Carbonate ( CaCO3 ) and will yield lime when heated . Varies in hardness . Etched by acids . Porous with many visible holes , often filled with epoxy . Polishing powders tend to accumulate in the holes and can make clean-up difficult . Because it is soft and has epoxy-filled holes , it should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout and the epoxy filling are in good condition .
Travertine is etched by acids , including soft drinks and juice . Acid-based cleaning chemicals can also etch . Absorbs oils and other liquids and is more easily stained than marble . Therefore , putting Travertine in a kitchen or heavily used bathroom is not a good idea . Travertine should only be cleaned with a neutral or mild alkaline-based cleaner .
Travertine can be used for countertops but it ' s not recommended . It is easy to scratch and etch . It works well for flooring , accessories and smaller spaces . This stone seems to open up small areas and makes them feel more spacious and airy . The surface finishes for travertine stone vary . Not all travertines are capable of the polished high gloss finish - only the harder types .
Travertine can have four major finishes : polished ( shiny ), honed ( matte ), brushed and tumbled ( textured surfaces ). The type of finish given to the travertine will determine how shiny the surface will be . The most common finish for travertine is honed .