This is the time when home homeowners are more aware of the importance of green material. Even when they are renovating or designing their homes they are considering eco-friendly materials. Travertine tile is one of the most considered materials for homeowners these days. It is popular among homeowners for all the right reasons. However, it also raises the question of if this material is eco-friendly as well. Travertine is a natural stone and has a long history of being used in construction. It has its natural timeless beauty. But what about its sustainability? Should you consider it as an eco-conscious homeowner?
In this blog post, we will discuss the travertine and how it is an ideal choice for an eco-friendly construction. Continue reading the following.
What Is The Travertine Tile?
Before we talk further let us take a closer look at what travertine tile is. It is the type of limestone that was formed over a thousand years ago by mineral deposits from natural hot springs and limestone caves. The unique formation gives travertine¹ a porous texture and a beautiful natural appearance. It has beautiful color pellets from cream, and beige, to silver and brown.
Travertine tile offers a timeless look and feel that makes it a great choice if used for travertine floor tile, kitchen backsplashes, and even pool areas. However, when it comes to eco-friendliness it is a great choice. Here is how.
Travertine Tile As Eco-Friendly Material
Here is how travertine is a great eco-friendly material.
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Travertine is a Natural Material
One of the most significant reasons why travertine is the best eco-friendly material is that it is 100% natural. Synthetic material cannot match even a bit to travertine tile. Synthetic materials such as vinyl and certain ceramics are created with chemicals. Travertine does not have any synthetic additives. Travertine is extracted from the quarries. More reputed brands such as NT Pavers have their queries where they have control over extracting the material naturally, directly from the earth.
This makes it a pure natural material that doesn’t harm the environment when it is being created. You can reduce your reliance on synthetic, non-renewable resources by choosing natural materials like travertine.
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Durability Equals Longevity
Travertine tile is also popular for its durability and resilience. If your travertine tile maintenance routine is on point then it can last for decades. You may not know that the Roman Colosseum has travertine in its construction and it has lasted for 2000 years.
Such durability means you will not have to opt for replacing it too often. This will result in waste reduction. Compare this to other materials, even the synthetic ones that can wear out quickly such as carpeting or engineered wood. The longevity of travertine results in little to no environmental impact whether in renovation or new builds.
By choosing long-lasting materials like travertine, you’re investing in a sustainable future. You will need fewer replacements after decades. It means lowering the demand for new materials and waste reduction that ends up in landfills.
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Travertine Can Be Recycled and Repurposed
Repurpose and reuse of existing materials are the key factors of recycling and a sustainable environment. Travertine tile stands out with this. If you have leftover travertine from a previous project then you can repurpose or reuse it hassle-free. Natural stone tile can be reused in versatile ways possible from decorative features to landscaping. This makes them a flexible option for sustainable construction.
You will not only reduce waste by recycling travertine but will reduce the demand for freshly mined materials. The cycle of lesser use of replacement leads to lesser demand for material and results in more mining. It helps in creating a more sustainable environment and fostering an eco-friendly building practice.
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Low Energy Production Process
Creating travertine tile is relatively less intensive compared to synthetic materials. The travertine extraction process and finish also don’t consume too much energy. It is usually carried as larger slabs and then it is cut into required-sized tiles as tile sizes are different according to the project. It requires less amount of chemicals and the overall energy consumption is lower. It makes the travertine tile an even more eco-friendly option compared to other natural stones such as marble and granite.
Additionally, professional travertine suppliers such as NT Pavers have begun utilizing modern quarrying techniques. The goal is to reduce the environmental footprint. This also includes water recycling implementation and responsible land management.
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Sustainable Quarrying Practices
In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward sustainable quarrying practices². A huge number of travertine quarries are now focusing on ecological footprints by restoring the land after the quarrying is done. They are making sure the land will be inhabitable and secure during the travertine extraction process. Some companies are now recycling the water that is used in cutting and shaping the stone. This further minimizes the environmental impact of quarrying.
When you are about to purchase travertine tile, ask about the source of the stone. Brands that are committed to sustainable practices will guide you through the process. Such eco-conscious suppliers should be supported to create a more sustainable supply chain.
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Travertine’s Natural Insulation Properties
Another factor that makes it a great eco-friendly material is its natural insulation properties. Its natural thermal properties make it an ideal choice to build a more energy-efficient house. It can naturally regulate indoor temperatures. Your homes will be cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The natural insulation properties of travertine will help you reduce your reliance on artificial resources. It will also lessen the energy consumption of your home.
Also, travertine tile is a great material for outdoor spaces as well such as pool decks and patios. Even on summer days, it will stay cool under the foot. It can minimize the urban heat island effect in your garden or outdoor living space.
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Travertine and VOC-Free Finishes
Several building materials contain VOCs which are harmful to the indoor environment of any home. The VOCs or volatile organic compounds are used in their finish and adhesives that can damage the air quality and environment. Travertine has the edge of being VOC-free. It can help you maintain a natural and healthier environment if you opt for Natural Stone Sealers or finishes with the lowest amount of VOCs. Using eco-friendly grout and sealants to install travertine tile. They will not emit harmful chemicals thus making the environment safe. This will further enhance the environmental benefits of choosing the best quality travertine tile for your project.
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Minimal Transportation Impact
Although travertine has the lowest environmental impact it varies differently depending on where it is sourced. Travertine is often sourced from Turkey, Italy, and the United state regions. However, opting for the locally sourced travertine will reduce the carbon footprints associated with transportation. Local queries will require less energy to ship the material to your project site. You can ask about the travertine’s origin when purchasing. Choosing local regions will result in supporting the local economy and reducing overall environmental impact.
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A Timeless Aesthetic that Reduces Waste
Opting for travertine tile means you are going to get an evergreen material for your interior design. Natural stones have always been a great choice as interior or exterior material which means it is here to stay. Travertine tile has a better future value in terms of aesthetics. Often the homeowners want to replace the tiles when they are not in trend. If you are going to invest in travertine tiles, you will get a timeless look that will remain fresh and stunning for decades if not centuries. You will not want to replace the tile for years or even decades.
This results in reducing the overall waste that can be caused by the rebuilding every year.
Final Words On Travertine Being Eco-Friendly
So, is travertine tile eco-friendly? Yes, it is one of the most eco-friendly materials that one can opt for. Being an all-natural stone it has the minimal environmental impact that one can think about. For homeowners looking for eco-friendly options for their house renovation or building, travertine tile is a great choice. Its composition, natural insulation properties, durability, recyclability, and low-energy production make it a sustainable choice that will reduce the carbon footprint.
Although no material is without an environmental impact travertine has the most compelling benefits, sourcing practices, and natural properties. This makes travertine tile a great choice even among the other natural stone tiles like marble tiles and granite slabs. If you are looking for beauty with functionality then travertine is the best answer. It will make any space stunning and functional while maintaining the sustainability factor.
References:
1. Travertine