FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What are the main differences between travertine, marble, and limestone?

• Travertine: Known for its natural holes and pores, it offers a rustic look.
• Marble: Polished and elegant, often featuring veins and a glossy finish.
• Limestone: Softer with a matte finish, providing a more natural, understated appearance.

Q: Are these tiles suitable for outdoor use?

• Yes, all three types can be used outdoors, but their suitability depends on the finish and climate. Travertine and limestone are popular for patios and pool decks due to their non-slip properties when unpolished.

Q: How durable are these tiles?

• Marble is the hardest and most durable, followed by travertine and limestone. However, all require proper sealing to maintain their appearance and longevity.

Q: Do these tiles need sealing?

• Yes, sealing is recommended for all three types to prevent staining and maintain their natural beauty, especially in high-moisture or heavy-traffic areas.

Q: How do I clean and maintain these tiles?

• Use a pH-neutral cleaner.
• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the stone.
• Regular resealing is recommended to protect the tiles.

Q: Are these tiles eco-friendly?

• Yes, travertine, marble, and limestone are natural stones with minimal environmental impact during extraction and production.

Q: Can these tiles be used with underfloor heating?

• Yes, they are excellent heat conductors and work well with underfloor heating systems.

Q: Are these tiles slippery when wet?

• Polished marble can be slippery when wet, while honed or textured finishes of travertine and limestone offer better slip resistance.

Q: What are the color options available?

• Travertine: Earthy tones like beige, tan, and cream.
• Marble: Classic whites, greys, blacks, and sometimes greens or reds.
• Limestone: Neutral shades of beige, grey, and soft whites.

Q: How do I choose the right tile for my project?

• Consider the location, design preferences, durability, and maintenance requirements. For help, consult Mekmar experts for personalized advice.

Q: Are these tiles expensive?

• Prices vary based on the stone type, quality, and finish. Marble tends to be the most expensive, followed by travertine and limestone.

Q: Can these tiles be used in bathrooms?

• Yes, they are ideal for bathrooms but require proper sealing to resist moisture and staining.

Floor Tiles

Q: Are these tiles suitable for high-traffic areas?

• Yes, marble and travertine are excellent for high-traffic areas with proper sealing. Limestone is better suited for moderate-traffic zones due to its softer nature.

Q: Can I use travertine, marble, or limestone for heated floors?

• Yes, they are great conductors of heat and pair well with underfloor heating systems.

Q: Are these tiles scratch-resistant?

• Marble is more resistant to scratches than travertine or limestone, but all can scratch if exposed to abrasive materials.

Facade and Wall Tiles

Q: Can travertine, marble, or limestone be used for facades?

• Yes, they are commonly used for facades. Marble offers a luxurious look, travertine adds texture, and limestone gives a natural and timeless feel.

Q: Are these tiles good for accent walls?

• Absolutely! Marble accent walls create a statement, while travertine and limestone add warmth and texture.

Q: Do these wall tiles require any special maintenance?

• For vertical applications, regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner are sufficient. Sealing helps prevent water or grime absorption.

Exterior and Landscape Tiles

Q: Which tile type is best for outdoor use?

• Travertine: Perfect for patios and pool decks due to its non-slip surface.
• Limestone: Ideal for walkways or garden paths.
• Marble: Works best in covered outdoor areas due to its polished surface.

Q: How do these tiles perform in freezing temperatures?

• Travertine and limestone are more resistant to freezing and thawing cycles, provided they are sealed properly. Marble can crack if not adequately maintained in cold climates.

Q: Can I use these tiles for garden landscapes?

• Yes, travertine and limestone are popular for landscaping due to their earthy tones and slip resistance.

Pavers

Q: What are the advantages of using natural stone pavers?

• Durability and longevity.
• Timeless and natural aesthetic.
• Heat-resistant, making them comfortable for barefoot areas.

Q: How do travertine pavers compare to concrete pavers?

• Travertine pavers are more durable, heat-resistant, and visually appealing than concrete but come at a higher cost.

Q: Do pavers require special installation?

• Natural stone pavers require a solid base, proper leveling, and occasional resealing for longevity.

Wall and Facade Tiles

Q: Can I use travertine or limestone for a backsplash?

• Yes, they are excellent choices for kitchen or bathroom backsplashes, adding texture and character.

Q: Do marble wall tiles stain easily?

• Marble can stain if exposed to acidic substances but sealing minimizes this risk.

Maintenance Questions

Q: How often do exterior tiles need sealing?

• For outdoor applications, resealing every 1-2 years is recommended, depending on weather conditions.

Q: What’s the best way to clean outdoor tiles?

• Use a hose for regular cleaning and a pH-neutral cleaner for stubborn dirt. Avoid power washing as it can erode softer stones like travertine and limestone.

Q: Are these tiles resistant to moss or algae?

• Regular cleaning and sealing prevent moss and algae growth on exterior surfaces.