If you're considering using travertine pavers for a new walkway or backyard patio design, you're probably wondering how these stones will hold up in extreme weather conditions. Many types of stone will crack and shift as a result of the winter frost, and other stones absorb too much heat in the summer sun, making them uncomfortable for bare feet. Fortunately, patios, walkways and other renovations made using travertine pavers will help you avoid both of these extremes and are sure to look stunning in all seasons.

The freeze and thaw cycle
If you live in the northern states, or any place that sees extreme cold in winter, it's essential that you learn about the freeze and thaw cycle before making new installations that include stone, mortar or concrete. This process can weaken stones and joints, causing them to crack and shift and making your walkway or patio area uncomfortable or even dangerous to tread on.

The freeze and thaw cycle begins when moisture from rainfall or melting snow seeps into the nooks, crannies and cracks of your tiles and mortar. When this water freezes, it expands, placing extra pressure on the stone. When this occurs repeatedly, it weakens the stones and the mortar to the point of breakage, ultimately resulting in the fracturing of stones and joints. This process is also known as frost shattering.

Some stones are strong enough to withstand this repetitive cycle because they are more dense and less porous, which is exactly the case with premium-grade travertine pavers from Travertine Mart.

Using pavers in cold weather regions
To avoid the effects of the freeze and thaw cycle, Travertine Mart recommends using the "mud-set" installation method. To do this, you'll need to make sure there's a thick layer of dirt or sand where you'd like to install the tiles. The area should also be perfectly flat and free from debris (including plants and roots).

Then, you'll need to apply a layer of adhesive bonding agent, such as FlexBond, onto the renovation subfloor. After you've added your layer of sanded grout, another layer of adhesive is recommended to weatherproof your paver installation. Then, install pavers and wipe away excess grout. Your DIY travertine installation is now weatherproof!

For best results, use premium-grade pavers from Travertine Mart. These products have passed third-party laboratory tests for their freeze-and-thaw cycle performance without cracking.

Using pavers in warm weather regions
Travertine pavers are also the perfect medium for warm-weather regions. The natural stones are easy to install in any type of soil, regardless of sand or clay content. Additionally, travertine pavers are able to keep cool naturally, even under the sun's hottest rays. This makes them the perfect option for pool sides, patios, walkways and other areas where people are likely to pad with bare feet.

Travertine Mart offers the perfect pavers for any region. Browse our website for your perfect new pool or patio renovation stones today.