Travertine Tile Installation Tips

The installation of travertine is medium to high difficulty level and resembles with the installation on any other tile but keep in mind that you have to be extra careful. The three most important steps in installing are: preparation, laying the tile and grouting it to keep it all together. You will also need a wet saw to cut the tiles to the appropriate size, chalk line, tape measure, carpenter’s pencil, power drill with mixing paddle, notched trowel, beater block, rubber mallet, grout float, 4-foot metal straightedge and a dry-cutting saw.

Floor Preparation

In order to prepare the floor for the travertine installation you will need to:
– Remove any existing flooring.
– Repair or replace the sub-flooring.
Also you should do a dry test run to layout the tiles and inspect them for defects. This will help you make sure that you have everything under control and that you will be able to complete your project.

Installing Ditra Anti-fracture Membrane

The Ditra Anti-fracture membrane is a type of underlayment designed specifically for stone and marble floors.Considering its benefits (uncoupling, water proofing, vapor management, support/weight distribution), it is highly recommended to use this type of underlayment.

Tile Installation

– If the Ditra anti-fracture membrane is not installed for the underlayment, then cement backing is necessary to be installed to the subfloor.
– Mark the tile layout by using the chalk line, leaving room for the grout. Before proceeding, make sure the tiles are dry and ready to be installed.
– Mix the thinset adhesive according to the directions. When it reaches a thick consistency, apply it to the tiles and lay them according to the chalk lines for the layout. Cut tiles to fit the measurements around the edges, using the wet saw.
– After allowing 24 hours for drying time, apply the grout in between the tiles.

Installation Tips

– Do not install wet stone. Be very sure that before beginning the installation the stones are completely dry
– Use a white thinset whenever you have the possibility. Avoid the gray thinset when using a lighter travertine because it may bleed
– Be sure the thinset is thick and sticky, with a peanut butter like consistency.
– Ultraflex II may be used as a thinset.
– It is better to use a non-sanded grout.
– You can pre-seal the tile in order to prevent a potential staining with mortar
– As soon as the installation is complete, seal the tile with the appropriate type of sealer. We advise you to test the sealer on a small, inconspicuous area of one tile before applying it to the entire installation