An ideal flooring choice for residential and commercial purposes, travertine tile is increasingly becoming popular as a rugged, low-maintenance flooring option. Attractive and sophisticated, this natural stone tile has been used by property owners and business houses for flooring in heavy traffic areas and as wall tiles. It can be used as a decorative wall cladding or even an aesthetically-pleasing facade material. In both the cases, it will add value by creating a natural diverse pattern and adding elegance and warmth to the room.

Travertine's best feature is the quality of timelessness inherent in the stone and its versatility in perfectly suiting a casual environment and a formal ambience. The durability of travertine is proven by its use in the ancient Roman Coliseum, which was constructed between 72 AD and 80 AD.

Travertine Tile: Origin of the Stone

Travertine tile holds a special position in the architectural development, from the ancient Greek civilization and the Roman Empire, extending to the modern era. There are defining traits of travertine which sets this stone apart from any other natural stone flooring options.

The formation of this stone is very similar to that of marble and limestone whose development spans thousands of years. Travertine, formed by underground rivers and subterranean springs, is a result of the gradual coagulation of mineral elements including calcium carbonate, present in water sources. They are formed in the same manner as stalactites and stalagmites are formed in grottos and caves.

The stone is smooth, dense, very hard and porous, with a notable creamy color which exudes an old-time refinement. The pores are a consequence of gases escaping while the stone is being formed. Travertine is found in abundance in Italy and Turkey and is a major import product for construction purposes all over the globe, including North America.

Travertine Tile: Uses

Travertine tile will look awesome in any part of your home, whether it is the bathrooms, dining space, living room, hallways and kitchens. This stone, processed in different ways, is available in a wide array of colors to perfectly suit the ambience of each room. The following are some suggestions:

* Bathrooms - A gold-shaded, large-format, matte-finish (honed) tile will be perfect. The gold color will lend a warm glow along with a neat, classy appearance.

* Living rooms and hallways - A large-format, dark-colored rectangular tile, laid lengthwise, will create a sense of space and also draw the guests' attention to the chic flooring material.

* Kitchens - Again use a light-colored tile so that it provides a flattering, neutral background color. Install the tile with very little grout to maximize the spacious feel.