Travertine Installation Mistakes to Avoid: A Guide for Homeowners
Everyone loves a home filled with comfort and peace, where every detail adds to the charm. Flooring plays a major role in creating a cosy environment and finding the perfect option can be a task. So, are you looking for comfortable flooring options for your home? Look no further, Travertine natural stone is one of the most popular materials in Australia. It is known because of its durability and beauty. However proper care and installation are essential to ensure their long-lasting charm. Mistakes during the installation process can result in poor-quality flooring and disappointment. So, to avoid that, in this blog, we will learn about the installation mistakes of Travertine pavers. This will help homeowners and make them more aware of the process. Let’s get started.
Mistakes to Avoid During Travertine Installation Process
Have a read at the following mistakes which you must avoid for proper installation of this stone within your property:
1. Skipping Site Preparation
The foundation is everything when it comes to installing the pavers. One common mistake that most people make is failing to prepare the site properly. Travertine pavers need a solid base to stay in place. If you skip the proper grading or compacting, you will likely have uneven pavers or drainage issues. So, what is the solution to this?
Solution:
You can start by clearing the area of debris or dirt and make sure the surfaces are clean and then dig out enough space for base material. Then start by adding a layer of compacted gravel and sand to create a stable foundation that prevents shifting over time.
2. Ignoring the Damage
Lack of drainage can lead to multiple issues such as water accumulation, waking of the surface, cracking and shifting. This is true for Travertine as it is porous nature makes it vulnerable to water-related wear over time.
Solution:
Allow water to flow naturally away from your home or any structures by sloping the area slightly. Consider installing drainage channels or a base if needed.
3. Using the Wrong Base Material
Another common mistake that people make is using the wrong base material. A base not providing adequate support can result in uneven settling, cracks or logged pavers.
Solution:
Travertine pavers should be set on a compacted gravel base with a layer of sharp sand or concrete base for better stability. You can consult a professional to understand your project’s best choice.
4. Failing to Seal the Pavers
Natural Travertine stone is beautiful but if you do not take care properly, it may quickly fade. So, proper maintenance, cleaning and sealing play an important role. Many homeowners skip the sealing of pavers, making them vulnerable to stains, water damage and other outdoor elements.
Solution:
Invest in a high-quality sealer that is designed for natural stone or specifically for Travertine pavers. We recommend dip sealing in fact, so that the stone gets a layer of protection from all sides. Consider to reseal the stone every 1 – 2 years to maintain the beauty of the pavers.
5. Choosing DIY Method Without Research
This is one of the common mistakes because it is a fun and challenging task. But without proper guidance or awareness, you might end up with undesirable results.
Solution:
If you are new to the installation of pavers, then it’s always better to hire a professional who knows everything about the stone and its process. Or if you want to take on this project on your own, consider doing thorough research and consultation with experts to make all the difference and avoid any hurdles.
6. Miscalculating Material Quantities
Running out of pavers mid-installation is a major blunder and no one wants to stop the project in between due to this. But yes, this is a mistake many homeowners make by not ordering enough material.
Solution:
The best practice is to always order 10- 15 % extra sets of pavers to avoid the last-moment hassle. Because the pavers may get damaged during transport or shifting the materials.
7. Ignoring the Importance of Spacing
Overlooking proper spacing during installation can cause major issues. As a result of temperature changes, your pavers may buckle or crack if there is not enough room for expansion and contraction.
Solution:
Use spacers to ensure consistent gaps between the Travertine pavers, typically around ⅛ inch to ¼ inch. This also makes the space for grout or joint sand, keeping the pavers secure and aligned.
Conclusion
Travertine pavers are an investment in beauty and durability. But only if installed correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the best practices, you can create a stunning outdoor space that lasts long. So, remember the small details, whether you are building a patio, pool deck, walkway, courtyard or any outdoor space. Also, make sure you are getting a high-quality natural stone Travertine.
