When it comes to bringing a beautiful, authentic and inviting aesthetic to your home, one of the best types of design materials you can use is natural stone. But with so many different types to choose from, how can you decide what is the best fit for your humble abode?
Well, travertine installation can lend your next indoor or outdoor design project plenty of style, versatility and durability. However, you should take the proper precautions to make sure your travertine tiles and travertine pavers look great for years to come.
In particular, sealing these stones will help them stand up against weather damage, scuffs and abrasions down the line. Here is some basic information about how and why you should seal your travertine installation.
Where do I seal?
Travertine stones can be used both inside and outside your home, which can leave you wondering in which circumstances you should seal the material. These stones are naturally strong enough to withstand heavy use, but sealant can ensure that they retain their charm down the line.
While it can make sense to protect tiles installed in your kitchen or bathroom – where water spillage could potentially damage the surface – this procedure is primarily done for exterior patios and travertine pool coping as well as driveway and walkway pavers.
Why is it necessary to seal?
Travertine pavers are naturally durable and resistant to water, allowing them to remain impressive parts of your home decor for many years. However, outdoor travertine pavers need extra protection when used near pool areas, especially salt water pools.
The reason for this is because travertine stones feature a surface that is naturally porous. This allows salt water to pool and become absorbed into the stone.
Additionally, external sealants are effective at protecting travertine from weathering over the years. During the cold winter months, this procedure can also shield the material from damage caused by ice repeatedly freezing and thawing.
How do I seal?
While you might consider yourself a handy type with plenty of DIY knowledge, it’s often best to leave the job of sealing outdoor travertine installation to the professionals. This process can involve removing the surface wax from the stone before applying a water-resistant sealant, so let an expert perform this step to ensure no harm comes to your travertine pavers.
Once any wax has been removed, the sealer is applied in a thick layer across the top, allowing it to sink down into the pores of the stone for maximum protection.
