20th Jan 2023

Travertine Stone vs Porcelain Tiles for Pool Decks - What’s Better?

If you're looking to renovate or install a pool deck, you may wonder whether travertine stone or porcelain tile is the better option. Both materials have pros and cons, so deciding which is right for you can be difficult. Our team of experts has created this travertine and porcelain tiles comparison guide to help!

We will discuss both materials' appearance, durability, lifespan, areas of usage, maintenance, damage repair, qualities, and costs. We'll also give you a recommendation for porcelain tiles from our range. So read on to find out more!

What is the most durable surface for a pool?

Porcelain outdoor tiles can also be a great option for pool tiles due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Porcelain pool tiles are denser than travertine, so it is less likely to chip or crack over time. This makes it an excellent choice for pool coping because you won't have the same maintenance issues that come with travertine.

FEATURED GUIDE: The Beginner’s Guide to Pool Coping Tiles

Are porcelain tiles more expensive than travertine?

No, natural stones are more expensive than porcelain tiles. Porcelain is made of clay, whereas travertine is a natural stone. Porcelain tiles are designed to be cost-effective, so they can often be a more budget-friendly option than travertine.

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Travertine Stone

Pros

Cons

- Unique and beautiful, natural stone look

- Easy to clean

- Easily stained and etched by pool chemicals

- Requires sealing for protection

- Higher Cost

Appearance

Travertine tile has natural holes and troughs, giving it a distinct look and texture that makes it appealing. Travertine can come prepared in different ways, including honed, brushed, polished, tumbled, and saw cut, creating various looks. It also naturally occurs in shades from light to dark browns and beige.

Qualities

Travertine is a type of limestone and typically is sourced from quarries in Mexico, Turkey, or Italy. Travertine is a naturally occurring material made of calcite, making it extremely durable and long-lasting.

Durability

Travertine has a porous nature which means moisture and liquids can soak into your stones. Travertine stones must be sealed regularly to protect them from pool water damage. They are prone to staining and etching by pool chemicals and other materials without sealant.

Lifespan

Travertine tiles typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more when properly sealed and maintained. Regular maintenance is important if you want your travertine pool deck to last.

Areas of Usage

Travertine is primarily used for outdoor spaces, such as pool decks, patios and walkways. It can also be used indoors in bathrooms and kitchens, but it is not recommended for high-traffic areas due to its porosity.

Is travertine stone good around a pool?

Travertine can be used around a pool, but its porous nature means that it must be regularly sealed to protect it from stains and etching. It is also important to note that travertine can be slippery when wet, so they may not be the best choice if you have children or elderly people in your home who could slip.

Costs

Travertine tiles can range in price depending on the type and quality you choose. Generally, travertine is more expensive than porcelain due to its natural stone look and feel.

Maintenance

Travertine requires regular sealing and cleaning to keep it looking its best. To clean travertine tiles, use a mild detergent or pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone's surface.

Damage Repair

If your travertine tiles become stained or etched by pool chemicals, they may need to be resurfaced or replaced. This can be a costly process and may require professional help.

Our Travertine Look Tiles


Arena Cross Honey Grip	Navona Bone Cross Grip	Timeless Beige Grip

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Porcelain Tiles

Pros