Limestones including Travertine

Limestones, including travertine, are sedimentary stones that have high levels of calcite & argonite.

Polished travertine installed ©JoeG2007, flickr

• You can often identify fossils of animals & plants contained in these stones
• The high level of calcium-based minerals, originating from those fossils, cause the stone to react with acid
• Limestone is generally found in caves, formed by water
• Travertine is banded, generally formed by springs
• There’s not a lot of it, as far as stones go, making up less than 10% of sedimentary rock
• The pyramids are made out of limestone, as is cement
• When polished, it is generally filled to create a smooth surface (tiles are up to 30% filler, FYI)

Due to the high-level of reactivity to acid and it’s softness, travertine and other limestones are not always the best flooring choice for certain applications, but either due to the lower price or appearance, it ends up there anyway.

• High-traffic areas create discolored traffic patterns from wear & soiling
• Small-to-large holes open throughout from filler breaking down or popping out
• Etching from contact with acid, such as soda or wine, removes shine by causing roughness

Commonly seen tumbled (outside) or polished (inside), it has a natural appeal due to its muted tones but vibrant patterns.