Travertine is often thought of as a type marble and people frequently confuse the two. In fact, many people think travertine is just a fancier word for marble but this is not the case, the two are very different stones created in a unique environments giving them their own specific look and feel.
One reason these two stones might be lumped together is because they are in the limestone family and both created from sedimentary material, but these two stones are very different in appearance and formation.
The key difference between the two stones is how they are formed. Marble is formed when limestone comes under high pressures and temperatures. Travertine, on the other hand, is formed under additional high pressures and temperatures too, however travertine is formed in hot springs and limestone caves. Travertine has many distinctive, tiny holes and channels, giving it its telltale characteristics. These are created by the expulsion of hot water and gases during formation.
Both travertine and marble are beautiful choices for countertops in your kitchen and bathroom and we will help you understand these two stones better so you can make a choice you will be happy with.
Durability of travertine and marble
Travertine and marble are very hard stones and can withstand normal, everyday use. Being two of the softer natural stones, especially in comparison to granite and quartz, these two types can be cut in a variety of styles and shapes. Travertine and marble can be honed and polished into a beautiful shine. When homeowners hear the word “soft stone,” some are scared off from these two choices but keep in mind, travertine and marble countertops still incredibly durable and harder than most non-stone countertop surfaces.
They were created with heat and pressure during formation, so they are easily able to withstand heat and everyday wear and tear in your kitchen and bathroom. Travertine countertops are slightly harder than marble countertops as travertine is between a 4 and 5 on the mohs scale while marble is between a 3 and 4.
Appearance of the two stones
Marble come in a variety of colors from grey to beige, golden or dark brown or even black. The veining in marble is a unique characteristic but some types of marble can come out one single color with minimal veining.
Travertine is typically in the warm, Mediterranean earth tones. Once the two stones are sealed, they are more resistant to stains, though care should be taken as these porous stones are susceptible to discoloration if dark liquids are not wiped up quickly. Marble and travertine develop a patina over time that connoisseurs of these two stones appreciate.
Cost between travertine countertops and marble countertops
Costs between the two stones can vary greatly depending on the quality of the stone as well as the rarity. Some rare and beautiful marble slabs like Calacatta Gold from Italy may cost more than $150 dollars per sq. ft. Natural travertine can sometimes cost less than marble because it is easier to cut, reducing costs on this end. In other instances, a natural slab of travertine can cost more than cultured marble, however you can find similar costs in both depending on the quality.
The complexity of the installation can be a factor in the cost. Considering all aspects as well thickness of the slab and quality of the stone, we can help you find a choice that fits your taste and budget. Once you narrow your choice down to the type of countertop you prefer, weighing the options becomes much simpler.
Both stones are a beautiful choice for your countertop upgrades
Whether travertine countertops with its warm, artistic appearance or the natural elegance of marble countertops have caught your eye, Arch City Granite can help you pick the best choice for your kitchen or bathroom.
Granite countertops are wildly popular but if you are looking for something unique and different, steering away from the typical trends and opting for the luxurious travertine and marble choices is an excellent choice.
Our knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions concerning the many different types of travertine countertops and marble countertops we have in stock. Come visit us today for the best selection in natural stone countertops in the St. Louis area.