Limestone is similar to travertine in both its applications and mineral structure. Travertine is formed from hot and cold springs with calcium carbonate being deposited from evaporating waters to create what is called travertine. Limestone, however, is usually found deeper in the earth’s surface with calcite being the main mineral in limestone. Because limestone is a sedimentary rock it is usually denser than travertine with little or no fill in the material from the quarry. Dried riverbeds and areas where water has receded is usually where limestone is quarried.
Limestone Tile | Limestone Showers | Limestone Fireplace Surrounds
As far as applications are concerned limestone as well as travertine have been used for thousands of years for both exterior and interior applications. Limestone in the form of tiles is most suitable for tub surrounds, shower enclosure walls, and shower pans as well as flooring and kitchen backsplashes. Limestone in the form of slabs is best suited for interior cladding, bathroom vanities, shower benches and other areas of light to moderate use. Because it is a soft stone it is not recommended for kitchen countertops.
It is important to note that when we are discussing suitable applications of various material i.e. limestone and travertine. We are approaching this from the specification side and our years of experience dealing with client expectations. We therefore try to recommend applications that are best suited for the modern day consumer and their demands for design aesthetics as well as product performance and longevity.
The consumer would do well to use both travertine and limestone applications as a cross-reference for both stones.
