Honed Travertine Tile

Travertine is naturally porous, so its face has small holes and pits. Filled travertine has those holes filled at the factory for a smoother, more uniform surface. Unfilled travertine leaves them open for a textured, rustic look. Both are the same stone.

Travertine is a calcium-carbonate stone, like marble. Clean with pH-neutral products, never vinegar or acidic cleaners, and blot spills quickly. An impregnating sealer helps it resist stains. On filled travertine, watch for loose filler.

Not always. Put a few drops of water on the stone for about 15 minutes. If it darkens, a sealer can help. Sealing makes the stone more stain resistant, not stain proof, and it does not stop etching. Check that the sealer is labeled for your stone and the location (interior, exterior, shower or floor).

Polished shows the pattern most vividly. Honed has a smooth matte surface, hides small imperfections better, and on many stones can add some slip resistance underfoot. Polished also shows etch marks and scratches more. Ask us for the supplier's data sheet if you need a slip rating.