Travertine Subway Tiles
Natural Elegance Meets Classic Design
Travertine subway tiles represent one of nature's most elegant contributions to interior design, combining the timeless appeal of classic rectangular dimensions with the organic beauty of natural stone. These tiles bring warmth and sophistication to any space, offering homeowners a distinctive alternative to traditional ceramic or porcelain options. When you choose this material from Nova Tile And Stone, you're selecting stone that has graced architectural masterpieces for centuries, now adapted to fit contemporary design sensibilities.
The inherent beauty lies in the unique formation process. Created over thousands of years through mineral deposits in hot springs and limestone caves, each tile showcases distinctive natural variations in color and texture that cannot be replicated by manufactured alternatives. The subtle pitting and veining patterns create visual depth and character, ensuring that no two installations look exactly alike. This natural variation makes them particularly appealing for homeowners seeking authentic stone aesthetics without sacrificing the clean lines and geometric precision that subway tile layouts provide.
Travertine Subway Tiles: Quality Investment
Cost considerations reflect the status as genuine natural stone products. While typically more expensive than ceramic or porcelain alternatives, the investment brings authentic material quality and timeless appeal that manufactured options cannot replicate. Stone durability and longevity mean your initial investment provides decades of service when properly maintained. Nova Tile And Stone's sample program allows you to experience material quality firsthand before committing to full orders, with samples shipped directly to your home for evaluation in your actual space, ensuring your travertine subway tiles selection perfectly matches your vision.
Nova Tile And Stone brings nature's timeless travertine subway tiles to transform your space with authentic stone beauty!
Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Maintenance requirements are manageable with proper understanding and care. Upon installation, professional sealing creates a protective barrier against moisture penetration and staining. Reapplication every three to five years maintains this protection, depending on the area's exposure to water and traffic. Daily cleaning of travertine subway tiles requires only pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone, as acidic substances can etch the surface and compromise the sealant.
Explore our tile selection through our online shop or visit our showrooms in Reno, Sacramento, Minden, or Fernley to see the materials in person.
Understanding Material Properties and Finishes
Understanding the characteristics helps you make informed decisions for your renovation project. Like marble subway tiles and other natural stone options, travertine features an inherently porous surface that requires proper sealing to protect against moisture and staining. This porosity, however, contributes to breathability and creates the distinctive texture that designers value. Color variations offer remarkable design flexibility, from classic ivory and beige tones that create serene spa-like atmospheres to warmer walnut shades that add richness to kitchen backsplashes and accent walls.
The finish you select dramatically impacts both appearance and functionality. Tumbled finishes create an aged, weathered look with softened edges and enhanced texture, ideal for achieving Old World charm or Mediterranean aesthetics. Honed surfaces offer smooth, matte finishes with minimal sheen, providing understated elegance while maintaining natural character. Polished finishes amplify color depth and create reflective surfaces that maximize natural light, though they require more maintenance in high-traffic areas.
Kitchen and Bathroom Applications with Travertine Subway Tiles
Kitchen applications showcase this natural stone at its finest. As backsplash materials, they provide both functional splash protection and striking visual interest behind cooktops and prep areas. The stone's heat resistance makes it ideal for areas near ranges and ovens, while its neutral earth tones complement everything from stainless steel appliances to warm wood cabinetry. When browsing subway tile options, consider how organic patterns create focal points without overwhelming other design elements in your kitchen.
Bathroom installations reveal versatility across multiple applications. Shower surrounds benefit from natural slip resistance when honed or tumbled finishes are selected, though proper sealing is essential in these high-moisture environments. Vanity backsplashes gain sophisticated texture and depth from natural variations, protecting walls while elevating the overall design. Floor-to-ceiling installations create dramatic impact in larger bathrooms, where material beauty can be fully appreciated.
Torrent 1.5x6 Travertine Look Porcelain Tile
- Available in 4 Colors
- Travertine Look
- Natural & Lappato Finishes
- Ridge Finish Available in 12x24
- Porcelain Body
- Rectified Edge
- Made In Italy
- Wall Only: 12x24 Ridge, all other sizes Floor and Wall Installation
Frequently Asked Question
Travertine subway tiles are genuine natural stone formed over thousands of years through mineral deposits in hot springs and limestone caves. Unlike manufactured ceramic or porcelain tiles, each travertine tile features unique natural variations in color, texture, and pitting that cannot be replicated. This authentic stone brings organic beauty and one-of-a-kind character to your space, while ceramic and porcelain offer uniform, predictable patterns. The natural formation process creates subtle veining and earth-toned colors that range from creamy ivory to rich walnut, giving your walls depth and visual interest that factory-made tiles simply cannot achieve. Additionally, travertine maintains natural temperature properties, staying cool in summer and comfortable year-round, making it a tactile pleasure in kitchens and bathrooms.
Yes, travertine subway tiles require proper sealing upon installation to create a protective barrier against moisture and staining. Reapply sealant every three to five years depending on exposure to water and traffic. For daily cleaning, use only pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone, avoid acidic substances like vinegar or harsh chemicals that can etch the surface and damage the sealant. The porous nature of travertine means it's more vulnerable to staining than glazed tiles, but with consistent care, the stone develops a beautiful patina over time. Regular maintenance is straightforward and ensures your investment remains stunning for decades. Always wipe up spills promptly and use cutting boards or trivets to protect backsplash areas from direct contact with acidic foods or hot cookware.
Absolutely! Travertine subway tiles work beautifully in bathrooms when properly sealed. Honed or tumbled finishes provide natural slip resistance for shower surrounds, while the stone's texture adds sophistication to vanity backsplashes. Proper sealing is essential in high-moisture environments to protect the porous stone. The material also stays comfortably cool underfoot, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Floor-to-ceiling installations create dramatic visual impact, transforming ordinary bathrooms into luxurious retreats. The natural stone's ability to handle steam and humidity makes it suitable for even the most moisture-intensive applications when installation and sealing are done correctly.
Travertine subway tiles come in several finishes to suit different aesthetics. Tumbled finishes create an aged, weathered look with softened edges ideal for Mediterranean or Old World styles. Honed finishes offer smooth, matte surfaces with minimal sheen for understated elegance. Polished finishes amplify color depth and create reflective surfaces that maximize natural light, though they require more maintenance in high-traffic areas. Brushed finishes provide a middle ground with subtle texture and improved slip resistance. Each finish dramatically impacts both appearance and functionality, so consider your design style and practical needs when selecting.
While travertine subway tiles typically cost more than ceramic or porcelain alternatives, they offer authentic natural stone quality and timeless appeal that manufactured options cannot replicate. The stone's exceptional durability means your investment provides decades of service when properly maintained, potentially offering better long-term value. Nova Tile And Stone's sample program lets you evaluate the material quality in your actual space before committing to full orders, ensuring your selection perfectly matches your vision and design goals.