Tips to Grout Tumbled Travertine Tiles

Are you looking for ways to grout tumbled travertine tiles without hassle?

Tumbled travertine is a unique-looking form of tile made from mineral-rich rocks. This natural stone finished tile, is hard, beautiful and durable with a lot of natural craters and holes in the surface that is part of the travertine look. However, these holes, dips, and curves can complicate the process of grouting. Below are some tips on how to grout tumbled travertine tile.

1.  Tumbled travertine floor tiles

Travertine tiles are a popular flooring choice as they remain one of the most durable stone floor tile options available. Tumbled travertine floor tiles, for example, are popular for walk-in showers, tub surrounds, and backsplashes and coordinates beautifully with a wide range of other tile and slab products. When used on walls tumbled travertine wall tiles will increase the beauty and value of your home, due to its characteristic look and finish. Tumbled stone is typically unfilled when purchased and can be left that way after installation or filled with grout by the installer during the grouting process to help stabilize the stone, keep it clean and give it a nice finished look.

2.  Seal the tile first

Grout is a mixture that is used to fill in the space between two adjacent tiles. The first tip to grout tumbled travertine tile easily is to apply a deep penetrating sealer. This will not only protect the tile from water and other liquids and solids but will also provide a better look. You need to apply the sealer in at least two coats using a quality paintbrush and allow the sealer to dry before grouting.

3.  Un-sanded grout

Two types of grout can be used, an epoxy-based grout, and cement. Either of these groups will work with tumbled travertine tile, but you need to make sure the grout is sanded to strengthen it. However, un-sanded grout is also necessary for tumbled travertine tile as sand in the ground may damage the tile.

4.  Thin the grout

Contrary to the common method of mixing the grout to the thickness of peanut butter, when grouting tumbled travertine tile, thin the grout out so that the consistency is of jelly. This will enable you to quickly wipe off the grout from the craters when it dries out.

5.  Use a grout bag

Once you have thinned out the grout to a consistency more like jelly than peanut butter, it is spooned into the bag and then used to fill the gaps. The grout float is then used to press the grout down and more grout is applied. Repeat the process until the grout has been sufficiently applied. Once the grout has dried, wipe the tumbled travertine tile off with a damp sponge to prevent unnecessary mess.

Looking to buy tumbled travertine tiles and more?

Contact Sydney Tile Gallery, a natural stone and porcelain tile importer based in Sydney, providing service in all states and territories in Australia. Our expert buyers source a wide range of stone and porcelain tiles and pavers at the best prices, without compromising on the quality and finish.