How to Ship Travertine Tiles with 9 Easy Steps

How is Travertine Mined and Manufactured?

Travertine can be found in hundreds of locations worldwide, with the largest quarries in Italy. Different quarries result in travertine differing in appearance and texture, depending on the region where it is mined. Regional differences can also result in varying prices and labor costs. Travertine can also be found in Peru, Croatia, Iran, Egypt, Mexico, China, and so on; however, travertine is only mined in some locations. 

Tivoli, Italy, has the record for mining travertine first, with the Romans mining it back in 75 BC during the reign of Julius Caesar. The stone was recognized for its durability and became a prime building material for Roman monuments and attractions such as the Colleseum, Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

This versatile stone begins its journey in a quarry, where it will be mined according to quality and color. Several methods to mine travertine include channeling machines, wire saws, chain saws, and water-jet cutting. When cut, travertine slabs can sometimes be drilled or blasted from the wall of the quarry. Slab colors range from gold to ivory, rust, and even peach. The unique patterns that result from color swirls and waves create a timeless elegance. 

Afterward, it is broken down into blocks and transported to a factory or production facility to be cut into different-sized slabs. The highly specialized equipment can cut the stone into travertine tile pieces, then sanded into a uniform thickness. The travertine tiles then goes through a polishing process that can be processed in various ways depending on the finish of the travertine tile and can even be customized with edges cut and rounded and a final polish for specific installations.  

Once the travertine tiles have been shaped and polished appropriately, they are ready for packaging! Packaging methods will vary depending on where it is being sent. They will be secured onto a pallet if shipped to a construction site or packed into a wooden crate, cardboard box, or shrink-wrapped for retail settings. Regardless of the packaging method, the goal of preventing damage always remains. 

Travertine Tile Installation

These travertine tiles can be laid DIY style, or you can delegate this project to a professional. Seal your tiles two to three weeks after installation so they do not absorb any liquids. Since the surface of the travertine tiles is porous, proper sealing is required to prevent stains and damage. Harsh or oily substances and grease can penetrate the pores of the tiles, making them nearly impossible to clean with standard cleaning methods. 

Travertine tiles are also prone to etching caused by exposure to acidic substances such as wine, coffee, alcohol, and vinegar. Bleach and ammonia are also etching culprits, causing a chemical reaction that eats away at the stone. Protective sealants can help prevent etching, as well as polished travertine with a natural resistance to etching. 

Travertine Tile Maintenance

 Cleaning and sealing regularly is vital to prevent stains and damage and preserve the travertine tiles’ beauty and durability. Always sweep up sand and other gritty substances immediately, and never drag heavy furniture across the floors. While both time and exposure to the outdoors can result in a weathered appearance, some homeowners desire regular applications of sealer can help maintain the “fresh new” look. 

Shipping Travertine Tile FAQS

Q. How is travertine different from granite? 

A. The surface of travertine stones is pitted with small holes and indentations caused by carbon dioxide bubbling during its creation. Travertine is not as hard as granite or marble but still very durable. The two stones are formed entirely differently and are composed of different minerals. Granite has a much more granular texture than a porous one and is also much more durable and harder than travertine, making it more resistant to scratches.

Q. Is Travertine fragile?

A. Yes, travertine stones tend to be soft compared to granite or porcelain. As a result, this stone is more susceptible to chipping and other damage during transit. Proper packaging and handling are essential. 

Q. Is travertine susceptible to moisture?

A. Travertine is a porous stone; it is much more susceptible to moisture-related damage. Proper sealing and moisture barrier application are essential to the tiles and packaging during shipping to prevent damage.

Q. Is travertine a heavy stone?

A. Travertine can be a very heavy stone, especially in formats such as large slabs. And yes, the weight of the travertine will influence shipping costs. It is essential to distribute weight correctly in the containers or pallets to avoid overloading and imbalances.