I searched for travertine on this site and found lots of info about using it in flooring, but nothing on countertops. Travertine countertops seem to be very popular in the model homes I’m seeing lately.
I’m considering using travertine on a countertop and tub surround and wanted to know opinions. I will buy the “filled” version and will likely use tiles that are 6″ by 6″ by half an inch thick, if I can find it. I was planning on putting them over particle board for the countertop and over concrete on the tub surround, using thinset with very thin grout lines.
Any things I should be particularly careful of in this installation?
Thanks in advance.
Replies
Is the particle board copunter substrate made from a waterproof particleboard?
Unless you're the lead dog, the view just never changes.
At a minimum, I'd put it over cement board and plywood, not particleboard. A mud bed would be the preferred substrate. Make sure you use a good sealer- travertine is extremely porous, and a red wine spill can wreck it. Lastly, don't use it as a cutting surface- most travertine scratches very easily.
Bob
What was I thinking? I was thinking travertine but prepping for formica...
Yes, I'll use 3/4" ply and hardibacker.
I'll be installing as a bathroom vanity top in the master bath, so any spills will most likely be toothpaste.
Lots of common folk brush their teeth with red wine..... :-)