Many people are choosing to remodel their homes which usually includes installing new flooring. Travertine and porcelain are two types of flooring that are very popular in Arizona. How does one choose between travertine and porcelain? Here are a few differences that will hopefully help you in the decision making process.
Travertine is a natural, rustic product that is made of stone. As a result, colors and textures vary significantly between batches making them more difficult to match should one need to be replaced at a later date. The variations are due to the iron content as well as the impurities in the limestone from which it is selected. If one opts for porcelain instead, they will often find a smoother texture with a better variety and consistency in colors since it is a manmade product.
The porous nature of the materials is one of their biggest differences. With travertine, if left untreated it will stain if it becomes wet regardless of how much or little liquid it comes into contact with. As a result, some experts say travertine should be re-sealed no less than two times per year in order to keep it looking new. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are made at a high-density level, making them almost impervious to staining through everyday use. It is especially good to use in high traffic areas of the home.
Travertine and porcelain are collected, produced, and maintained in completely different ways. Whereas travertine is collected from a quarry and finished in such a way as to allow its use in multiple ways, porcelain tiles are made from mixtures of clay that are fired and then either glazed or unglazed. Many of the newer designs are also hand-painted making them excellent accents in kitchens, halls, and baths.
Next to price, one of the most important aspects of tile selection to consider is maintenance. Not only is travertine susceptible to staining, but to heat as well. It can also scratch easily as well as chip. Additionally, acid, vinegar, and oils can cause irreparable harm. Porcelain, on the other hand, can be cleaned with mild soap that is not abrasive and soiled spots can be removed with window cleaner.
Of course one of the most important concerns is the cost. As expected, travertine is more expensive due to the cost of quarry collection, cutting, and processing. There can also be higher installation charges for travertine due to the need for a substrate which is stronger than that required for porcelain.
When weighing the differences between travertine and porcelain it may seem like the best decision would be to go with porcelain. However, realtors tend to agree that travertine adds value to any home so choosing between the two needs to be made with purpose in mind.
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Tags: flooring porcelain tile travertine
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