You can expect variations in color pattern shade texture cracks fissures pit holes with fill dull spots and veins in any natural stone.
Travertine vs limestone vs marble vs granite.
Being a natural stone travertine is extremely durable more than slate and marble yet not as durable as porcelain.
In terms of durability granite gets the edge because of its heat resistance.
A wide variety of colors are available especially earth tones.
However when sanded down and sealed travertine tiles are smooth and suitable for flooring or as shower tiles.
Although granite is very hard you will need to exercise caution when handling heavy objects around the countertop.
Although a soft stone marble can be used for countertops.
When a quality sealer is used the countertop will be affected by non ph balanced substances since the sealer sits just below the surface.
Limestone and travertine will etch when exposed to the acids and bases present in many cleaning products and common kitchen ingredients such as vinegar bleach citrus and wine.
Marble is the most popular stone for bathrooms.
Good durability considered relatively softer than other natural stone types and less durable than porcelain.
It will chip or break if a heavy object falls on it especially on the corners.
The look of travertine and marble tile flooring is often imitated by ceramic and porcelain.
The fact that the travertine will be exposed to water on a regular basis makes is less suitable for freezing zones where the water absorbed by the stone can end up expanding when frozen causing damage.
Marble tile travertine tile porcelain tile granite tile.
These stones are less dense than marble and granite so will also be more porous and require more sealer to prevent absorption of liquids.
The classic floor tile material exuding elegance luxury and style.
Being more likely to stain than granite and quartz marble is favored mainly for bathrooms flooring fireplaces walls and vanities but still makes an affordable elegant countertop.
This stone is relatively soft and absorbent so it requires a few coats of sealant to prevent debris from penetrating the stone.
Silestone is a very sanitary and stain resistant.