What Is Travertine?
So you want to add some natural stone accents to your yard, huh? Great choice. Travertine stepping stones are a classic way to create a garden path or designate different areas of your outdoor space. But with all the options out there, how do you know which travertine stones are right for your needs? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to consider to pick out the perfect travertine stepping stones for your yard. From size and shape to color and finish, we’ll explore all the factors that determine which stones you should choose. By the end of this, you’ll be a travertine stepping stone pro and ready to get your yard looking gorgeous for the summer. Let’s dive in!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Travertine Stepping Stones
Travertine is a type of limestone formed by mineral springs, especially hot springs. The stone is characterized by its distinctive holes and cavities, as well as its earthy tones of beige, brown, rust and gold.
Travertine stepping stones are popular for pathways and patios because of their natural, rustic appearance. The porous stone has a non-slip texture, even when wet, making it a safe choice for high-traffic areas. However, the same porosity that gives travertine its charm also means it stains easily. To prevent stains, apply a sealant before installing the stones and reapply the sealant every few years.
When choosing travertine stepping stones, consider the following:
– Color: Travertine comes in shades ranging from light beige to dark walnut. For a natural look, choose a color similar to the stone in your local architecture or landscape. For contrast, go darker or lighter.
– Size: Stepping stones typically range from 12 to 24 inches square. For small paths, go with smaller stones around 12 to 16 inches. For patios and larger walkways, 18 to 24 inches works well.
– Finish: Travertine comes in tumbled, honed or polished finishes. Tumbled has a rustic, weathered texture. Honed is smooth but not shiny. Polished offers a glossy, marble-like finish but can be slick, especially when wet. For walking surfaces, tumbled or honed are good options.
– Shape: In addition to square, travertine stepping stones also come in circular, rectangular and irregular shapes. Square or rectangular stones with rounded edges are a popular, versatile choice.
With the right sealant and maintenance, travertine stepping stones can make a beautiful addition to your outdoor space for years to come. Choose a style that complements your home and landscape, install them properly, and enjoy your new garden path or patio!
Top Tips for Installing Travertine Stepping Stones in Your Yard
When choosing travertine stepping stones for your yard, there are a few factors to keep in mind.
First, consider the size and shape you want. Travertine comes in a variety of shapes like squares, circles, hexagons and random pieces. For a classic look, square or rectangular stones around 12 to 24 inches work well. For a more natural vibe, irregular shaped stones with rough edges are perfect. The size you choose depends on how much space you have and how far apart you want to place the stones.
Next, think about the stone’s thickness and durability. Thicker stones, around 2 to 3 inches, hold up better over time and won’t crack or sink into the ground. Thinner stones are more budget-friendly but may not last as long. For high-traffic areas, choose a thicker, denser travertine that can handle more wear and tear.
You’ll also want to consider the stone’s surface finish. Travertine comes in tumbled, honed and polished finishes. Tumbled or honed stones have an antique, rustic look with a slightly rough texture. Polished stones have a smooth, glossy surface but can be slippery when wet. For outdoor walking paths, tumbled or honed is best.
Finally, choose a stone color that complements your home and landscape. Travertine comes in warm beige, gold and reddish-brown tones as well as cooler gray, blue and ivory tones. Blend different shades for a natural, multi-colored look or stick to one dominant shade for uniformity.
With the right size, thickness, finish and color, travertine stepping stones can create a gorgeous hardscape focal point in your yard. Take your time finding stones that fit your needs and style for a path you’ll enjoy for years to come.