Travertine pores are natural features. Surface holes, water absorption and drainage are different properties that you should assess separately.
Why travertine has pores
Travertine forms from mineral deposits. Its structure can contain voids. Cutting the stone exposes some voids at the surface. Unfilled products leave these features visible.
Filled finishes close selected surface voids. Filling changes the face of the stone. It does not turn the product into a waterproof material.
Do not confuse pores with drainage
Water absorption describes water entering the stone. Drainage describes water leaving the installation. Visible pores do not prove that a paving system drains correctly.
The base, bedding, joints and surface slope must work together. Ask your installer to address water below the pavers as well as water on top.
Check performance for the selected stone
Porosity varies between products and lots. Use the laboratory information associated with the selected product. Do not apply a result from one material to every natural stone.
A porous face does not guarantee wet slip resistance. Finish, contaminants, cleaning and site conditions can change the walking surface.
Plan care and exposure
Spills can enter open pores. Use a stone-compatible cleaning method. Sealing travertine is optional. If you choose to seal, confirm the product’s compatibility with the stone and exposure.
Read the sealer guide and salt-water protection. Compare travertine pavers using the product-specific specifications and test information.
Questions and answers
Will filling pores stop water absorption?
Filling changes selected surface voids. It does not establish waterproofing or remove the need for drainage.
Are more pores always better outdoors?
No. Assess the actual stone, finish, strength, absorption and installation. A visible pore count is not a performance rating.
