Travertine and slate tiles are currently very popular flooring options, but these stones have been in use for hundreds of thousands of years.  Because of their durability and style, they are used both indoors and outdoors.   Even though they are both natural stone and extremely durable, they are not made equal and require very different care and fit very different needs.

History and Composition

Travertine is a type of limestone deposited by mineral springs, especially hot springs.  Slate is a metamorphic rock derived originally from a shale-type sedimentary rock composed of volcanic ash or clay.  Both travertine and slate can be seen in various places throughout history.  Ancient Romans used travertine extensively to build their structures, and even the Colosseum is built mostly out of travertine.  Slate has been used for years as a roofing material because of its fireproof qualities and inability to absorb water, making it ideal to protect homes.

Durability and Maintenance

Slate and travertine are both extremely durable, but because of their composition, are very different when it comes to maintenance.  Slate requires very little maintenance, if any.  High quality slate is nearly impenetrable to any type of moisture or liquids, but lower quality slate can have a tendency to absorb and stain.  High quality slate can be sealed to protect from stains if desired, and often is desired because the sealant will enhance the natural colors of the slate.  Slate is incredibly strong and can withstand almost any impact because slate is generally harder than any item that could be dropped on it.  Travertine, however, is extremely porous and absorbs everything, so is easily stained.  It is highly reactive with acidic solutions, like vinegar, orange juice, tomato, etc., which can damage and stain the travertine.  Because travertine is a type of limestone, it is prone to chipping and scratching.  Travertine requires continued re-sealing because the pores of the stone will re-open and easily stain.  Travertine is not advised as flooring in homes with pets and small children because of its tendency to hold onto dust and grime in its pores and its propensity to stain.

Daily Care

The daily care of slate and travertine is basically identical.  Using a vacuum with bristles is not recommended for travertine because it tends to scratch, but any hard surface vacuum without bristles can easily be used for both slate and travertine.  When it comes to mopping, use of chemicals or acidic solutions is not recommended, especially for travertine, because they can damage the stone.  For travertine, a soapless cleaner is recommended because soaps tend to cause streaking and leave residue.  Slate can be washed using simply warm water, changing the water out often.  If desired, again, a soapless cleaner can be used and is recommended when using a cleaner due to streaking.

Installation

These tiles are installed in very much the same way as any other tile.  Depending on whether installation is taking place indoors or outdoors, grout is optional.  For cleanliness purposes, grout makes any tile easier to clean and allows less space that harbors bacteria or dirt, but again, is optional based on the look desired.

Both travertine and slate are high cost materials, some of the most expensive on the market, but the durability and desirability of these stones can make up for the cost.  Using these materials increases the value of your home and because they will not have to be replaced unless seriously damaged or unless remodeling is desired, use of slate and travertine is very appealing.

Slate and travertine tiles will significantly upgrade your home, provide a natural look to your space, and give you a durability and sustainability that can last for the duration of your home.  Meticulous maintenance and care can be required, but when considering the value that these surfaces can bring to your home, the investment is worthwhile.  Further research can help inform you so the right surface is chosen for your space, but both slate and travertine are ideal options when choosing a natural stone for your home.