Travertine Sealing & Maintenance Guide: Essential Products and Installation Tips to Prevent Staining

Protecting Your Investment in TRAVERTINE

One of the greatest benefits of using natural Travertine tiles and pavers is their long-lasting durability. However, like any natural stone, they require simple and correct maintenance to prevent staining and ensure their natural beauty lasts a lifetime.

This guide provides the essential steps to protect your new stone, particularly focusing on Australian outdoor conditions.

1. Sealing is Non-Negotiable

While Travertine is robust, it is a porous stone, meaning it has naturally occurring voids and capillaries that can absorb liquids. An invisible, penetrating sealer is essential for:

• Stain Prevention: Sealing creates a barrier against spills (red wine, BBQ grease, leaf tannins).

• Easier Cleaning: Sealed stone releases dirt and grime far more easily during routine cleaning.

• Mould and Algae: Sealer prevents moisture from penetrating deeply, inhibiting mould and algae growth, especially in damp, shaded areas.

Recommendation: Apply a quality invisible, impregnating sealer immediately after installation and allow 24-48 hours of curing time before exposing the area to heavy use or moisture.

2. The Simple Daily Maintenance Routine

• Regular Sweeping: Remove sand, dirt, and organic matter (leaves) regularly.

• Non-Acidic Cleaners: Never use acid-based cleaners or harsh chemicals (like undiluted bleach or hydrochloric acid) on Travertine. These will etch or dissolve the calcium carbonate in the stone. Use pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaners only.

• Grouting: Ensure your grout is properly selected and installed, as this is another area vulnerable to moisture penetration.

3. Installation Advice from Our Master Stonemasons

As Australia’s leading importer, our staff—including our two Master Stonemasons—recommend the following installation steps for your Ivory, Noce, or Silver Travertine project:

1. Preparation: Ensure your base is stable and well-compacted (usually road base over natural ground).

2. Laying: Use a high-quality, flexible tile adhesive specifically designed for natural stone.

3. Filling Voids: For most outdoor tumbled Travertine, leaving the naturally occurring voids open is standard, as this aids the non-slip rating. You can, however, opt for a filled surface if preferred (we offer filled and honed options for indoor use).

For further expert advice on your specific Travertine installation or to request a sample of our certified stone, please contact our team directly or browse our full range here:
See our Travertine inventory