Travertin vs Marble Tiles

Travertine is a very strong material suited for the interior and exterior of the home. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor tile due to its flexibility in use, robustness, and beautiful look. Even though travertine tile with marble tile belongs to the natural stone category, they are quite distinct products. They both possess clear differences and special characteristics that distinguish them from each other.

If you must decide which is superior, remember that each one has its specific uses and advantages. It highly depends on how one will use them. If they sit right in the setting, they both can be a great option for your interior. 

However, to make things clear let’s dissect the key difference between travertine and Marble Tiles that makes them different from each other. 

What Are The Key Differences between Travertine vs Marble Tiles

Check out the following table highlighting the key differences between Travertine and Marble Tiles:

If you are new to the tile selection then here is the explanation of these differences.

1. Appearance:

• Travertine Tile: Travertine tiles have a naturally rustic appearance. It often comes with a matt finish and porous surface. If you like earthy tones in your interior designs then travertine is your best option.
• Marble: Marble tiles are a more polished and luxury-looking natural stone. It comes in a wide range of colors from black to grey among the popular ones. Its natural veining patterns give marble a unique yet expansive appearance.

2. Durability:

• Travertine Tile: Travertine is not as strong when compared with other natural stones such as granite or marble. It can get scratches and breaks easily, particularly in areas where many people pass by often.
• Marble: Marble is too a strong natural stone tile. It possesses a harder and less absorbent surface, hence it can withstand scratches as well as chipping and cracking.

3. Slip Resistance:

• Travertine Tile: Travertine is a slip-resistant natural stone. They have a textured surface that doesn’t get slippery when wet. It offers a better grip for walking. This is why they are beneficial in areas that are prone to moisture, like bathrooms and outdoor spaces.
• Marble: Polished marble is more slippery than travertine tile. It is though suitable as wall tile in wet areas like showers but not suitable around pool decks and patios.

5. Maintenance:

• Travertine Tile: Propper and regular travertine tile sealing is essential for travertine floor tiles. Its porous surface can absorb water that can damage the structural integrity of natural stone. Regular travertine cleaning is also necessary to maintain its appearance.
• Marble: It needs to be polished and sealed regularly to retain its shine and prevent staining. It requires a pH-neutral cleaning solution as it is prone to etching from acidic substances.

6. Usage:

• Travertine Tile: Best suited for outdoor spaces, bathrooms, and areas with lighter foot traffic due to its slip resistance and natural look.
• Marble: Ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, marble countertops, and floors where its durability and elegant appearance can be showcased.

7. Cost:

• Travertine Tile: Generally more budget-friendly, with prices ranging from $2 to $5 per square foot.
• Marble: More expensive, typically costing between $5 to $15 per square foot, reflecting its luxurious appeal and durability.

Area Of Application.

It means the area where you want to install the natural stone. When it comes to travertine vs marble tiles, due to its naturally porous surface, travertine tile is not a good choice for an area like showers or poolsides where moisture is inevitable. However, you can seal it to protect the surface but doing it regularly is crucial.

On the other hand, marble tiles are always sealed. However, they are not a good choice for their slippery surface which cannot withstand water spills. So in an area where water accumulation is common like pools or showers, marble is not a practical option. However, you can go with travertine tiles. Marble cannot withstand scratches so a heavy foot traffic area is not suited for marble installation. There aren’t many people who use marble tiles outside where it’s exposed to the elements. 

• Look and Feel

  We are very familiar with what marble looks and feels like. Marble adds another level of beauty that no other natural stone tile can offer you. It features lovely dramatic veining in many designs, patterns, and colors paired with strong color lines. Conversely, Travertine can be found in beige and gold yellow; white, or cream variations.

• Style:

  It has more for warmer palettes or rougher finishes, such as Roman tile. Though travertine tile is neat and smooth to the touch, it definitely has its own distinct “style” that is fantastic in shower rooms and on outdoor patios as well.

Travertine vs Marble Tiles – The Benefits

Following are the benefits of both travertine tiles and marble so you will have an idea regarding both.

Travertine Tile Benefits

• Unparalleled Beauty:

  Travertine Tiles has a unique and earthy color pellet and organic textured surface. Each interior tile has a distinct look, character, and feel. It has distinctive veining and natural patterns that create a warm, inviting look.

• Finish and Versatility:

  Travertine tiles come in various finishes such as honed travertine tiles, tumbled travertine tiles, and brushed travertine tiles. They offer flexibility in designing as well. These tiles are great for both indoor and outdoor applications, from patios to bathrooms.

• Endurance:

  Travertine tile is less durable than other natural stones. However, it can withstand moderate wear and tear. It’s especially durable in outdoor environments where its natural texture offers a good grip and slip resistance.

• Authentic Beauty:

  Travertine is popular for its authentic, natural look. The unique texture and color variations give each tile an outstanding appearance that adds charm and character to any space.

• Affordability:

  It’s generally cheaper than marble. It’s a great choice for those who want a high-end look without spending more. You can get travertine tile with prices ranging from $2-$5 per square foot.

• Customizability:

  It is available in different sizes and finishes. This allows for a range of design possibilities. This flexibility helps in achieving the exact look you want for your home, whether you prefer a rustic or refined style.

Marble Benefits

• Unparalleled Beauty:

  Marble is popular for its classic and timeless beauty. The smooth, glossy finish and graceful veining make the marble look luxurious and polished. It makes it a great investment for any space.

• Finish and Versatility:

  It is available in polished, honed, and matte finishes. The range of designs makes it suitable from grand entryways and countertops to luxury flooring which makes it a very adaptable material.

• Endurance:

  While travertine tile lacks the strength of other natural stones, it can resist a fair amount of wear and tear. It shows greater durability in outdoors where its unique texture provides excellent traction to prevent slipping.

• Authentic Beauty:

  It gives a premium feel. Marble has natural patterns and colors that always bring a singular polished appearance. It is hard to match other products.

• Affordability:

  Usually, it costs less than marble. It is a superb option for those wanting a luxurious appearance without paying extra money. Travertine tile can be bought which varies in price from $2 to $5 per square foot.

• Customizability:

  Marble comes in many colors and designs. They are a good choice for various kinds of indoor spaces and rooms. If you desire traditional White Carrara marble tile or striking black marble tile, it is possible to locate a style that meets your imagination.

The natural attractiveness, low cost, and flexibility of Travertine Tile make it an excellent option for different places. Marble is more expensive but offers a luxury look, strength, and sophisticated appeal. While both materials are superb independently, the selection between them will rely on your taste in design aesthetics, how much you can spend as well as what your space specifically requires..

Bottom Line on Travertine vs Marble Tiles

If you want natural stone installed in the interior or exterior design of your house then both travertine and marble tile come to mind. However, it can be easier to get confused between marble and travertine when choosing travertine. Knowing these key differences will help you understand both so you will make an informed decision. Whatever you choose make sure it meets your aesthetic and functional requirements.