Travertine shower base

Types of Travertine Shower Base

A travertine shower base is a natural stone material used as a shower floor or base. Travertine is a type of limestone that forms around hot springs and is characterized by its distinctive appearance. It has small holes or pores and a fibrous texture. Because of its beauty, travertine is often used for flooring, countertops, and backsplashes. A shower pan, also called a shower base, is the floor section of a shower. It is built to hold water and direct it to the drain. A shower pan is different from a tub/shower combo, which is an enclosed unit that contains both a shower and a bathtub.

There are different types of travertine shower bases, including:

• Travertine tile shower base: This type of shower base is made up of individual tiles. The tiles are usually 12 x 12 or 18 x 18 inches in size. However, smaller or larger tiles can be used, depending on the design. The tiles are made from travertine, a natural stone filled with holes that make it lightweight. Travertine is then cut into tiles that are used as the floor base in the shower. The tiles are attached to the base using thin-set mortar. A shower with a tile base is more customizable compared to acrylic or fiberglass bases. This is because the shape and size of the tiles can be altered to fit different shower sizes and designs.
• Solid travertine shower base: A solid travertine shower base is made from one large piece of travertine stone. It is more durable and has fewer seams and joints compared to a tile-based shower. Solid stone shower pans are easier to install and clean, but they are also more expensive and heavier. Additionally, solid stone bases have fewer design options compared to those made of travertine tiles.
• Prefabricated travertine shower base: A pre-fabricated travertine shower base is made from a solid piece of travertine that has been cut and shaped in a factory. It comes with built-in sides that form the walls of the shower. The floor is also designed to slant towards the drain, which makes water run off easily. Installing a pre-fabricated base is faster and easier compared to installing one made of travertine tiles. This is because the size and shape of the tiles can be modified. A pre-fabricated base also has fewer seams, which makes it more durable. However, it tends to be more expensive and heavier. Additionally, it has fewer design options compared to a tile-based shower base.

Functions and Features of Travertine Shower Base

Travertine shower bases have various features that make them beautiful and functional. This natural stone is used for floors, countertops, and even shower bases because of its numerous features. Here are the features of travertine shower bases:

• Beautiful:

  Travertine is beautiful and comes in different colors and shades. This stone has a unique look and is perfect for people who want a shower that looks luxurious and expensive. A travertine shower base will make any bathroom look amazing.

• Durable:

  Travertine is a very strong stone. It won’t get damaged easily, which means a travertine shower base will last a long time. This stone can handle everyday use without showing signs of wear and tear.

• Easy to clean:

  Travertine doesn’t absorb water quickly. This means it is easy to clean and keep free from dirt and stains. A simple wipe-down after each shower will keep the travertine shower base looking new.

• Customizable:

  Travertine can be cut to any size and shape. This stone can be made to fit any shower, big or small. A travertine shower base can be customized to meet specific needs and preferences.

• Slip-resistant:

  Some types of travertine have a rough texture. This makes them slip-resistant and safe for wet areas like showers. A travertine shower base helps prevent slips and falls.

• Heats up quickly:

  Travertine absorbs heat well. On a chilly morning, the shower base won't feel cold on bare feet. Travertine is a good choice for people who want a shower that feels cozy and inviting.

• Low maintenance:

  With proper care, a travertine shower base lasts for many years. Just reseal it occasionally to protect against stains and keep it looking great. Travertine is low maintenance compared to other natural stone shower bases.

• Timeless appeal:

  Travertine never goes out of style. It has a classic look that works in modern and traditional bathrooms. A travertine shower base adds elegance no matter the bathroom design.

Scenarios of travertine shower base

Travertine shower bases are quite popular among homeowners looking to enhance their bathrooms with a touch of elegance and luxury. However, their usage is not limited to this. Here are some common scenarios where shower bases made from travertine are extensively used:

• High-End Residential Bathrooms

  Travertine shower bases are often found in high-end residential bathrooms. This includes master ensuites and spa-inspired bathroom renovations. Their warm, natural tone and unique texture add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the space. Additionally, they offer a beautiful and functional solution for high-end homeowners looking for both aesthetics and performance.

• Luxury Hotels and Resorts

  Luxury hotels and resorts often create an unforgettable experience for their guests. They do this by incorporating travertine shower bases in their bathrooms. This is done to evoke a sense of pampering and indulgence. Travertine, with its unique veining and rich texture, creates a visually stunning and serene environment.

• Vacation Homes and Cabins

  Travertine shower bases are common in vacation homes and cabins. These spaces offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This is done while at the same time providing a durable and low-maintenance shower solution. The natural beauty of travertine often complements the rustic charm and surrounding natural elements.

• Upscale Gyms and Wellness Centers

  Upscale gyms and wellness centers look to create a refreshing and rejuvenating experience for their members. They do this by incorporating shower areas with travertine bases. This is done to provide a luxurious and calming environment for post-workout showers and relaxation.

• Custom-Built Homes

  Travertine shower bases are a popular choice among homeowners who are building custom homes. This is done to create a personalized and unique bathroom space. These bases offer an opportunity to incorporate natural stone elements into the design, thus adding value and appeal to the home.

• High-Traffic Commercial Spaces

  Some high-traffic commercial spaces, such as upscale spas, salons, and private member clubs, may use a travertine shower base in their facilities. This is done to offer members and clients a shower experience that is both luxurious and durable, thus standing up to frequent use while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

How to Choose Travertine Shower Base

When choosing a travertine shower base, there are a few things that should be considered. These are; the size of the shower, the type of travertine, color and finish, check for sealing, slip resistance, and thickness.

The size of the shower should be determined before choosing a travertine tile size. Travertine tiles are available in various sizes and can be cut to fit any shower size. A shower base is also called a shower pan, and it comes in different sizes and shapes, such as square, rectangular, corner, round, and octagonal. Make sure to measure the size of the shower and choose a pan that will fit the space well.

The thickness of the shower base should also be considered. The thicker the base, the more durable it is. A thick base will also make the shower last longer. A 2cm-thick base is good for walls, but 3-5cm thick tiles are better for floors. A thick tile will not crack easily when stepped on.

The color and finish of the shower base should also be considered to ensure it complements the bathroom decor. Travertine tiles are available in different colors, such as beige, white, gray, brown, and red. The color that matches the bathroom should be chosen.

The finish is also important, as travertine tiles can have a polished, honed, or tumbled finish. A polished finish is smooth and shiny, while a honed finish is matte and smooth. A tumbled finish is textured and rough. Choose a finish that matches the style of the bathroom.

The type of travertine should also be checked. There are three types of travertine: filled and unfilled, polished and honed, and light and dark. Each type has its own characteristics. It is important to choose the right type for the shower.

Slip resistance is another important factor to consider when choosing a shower base. Travertine can be slippery when wet, so choose a base with a textured surface or a slip-resistant finish.

Lastly, sealing should be considered, as travertine is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent water damage and stains. It is important to choose a well-sealed shower base or plan to seal it regularly.

travertine shower base Q&A

Q: Why choose a travertine shower base over acrylic or fiberglass?

A: Travertine stone is more durable and has a unique, elegant appearance. It can last longer and looks better than acrylic or fiberglass, which may yellow or get scratched over time.

Q: Is a travertine shower base more difficult to install?

A: Installing natural stone like travertine is usually more complicated than installing acrylic or fiberglass. It requires special tools and techniques. Professional installation is recommended.

Q: How can grout lines be minimized on a travertine shower base?

A: Using large-format travertine tiles or a solid piece of travertine for the shower base can reduce grout lines. Also, opting for travertine wall tiles rather than solid travertine for the base can help.

Q: How should a travertine shower base be sealed?

A: High-quality impregnating sealer should be applied to travertine tiles before grouting and several times after installation. Sealing should be done annually or as needed based on water absorption tests.

Q: Are there any design limitations with a travertine shower base?

A: Travertine is very versatile and can match most design styles - classic, contemporary, spa-like, vintage, etc. Different colors and finishes allow for many design possibilities.