Stacy Weldishofer of TruStone Distributors of Milan, IN, said she’d been in the landscape design business for 20 years before discovering Travertine and Marble used as an outdoor dimensional paver.
Before the existence of Travertine pavers, the only thing that was available for patios and walkways was flagging, limestone and bluestone.
“I always loved using natural stone, and while visiting the West Coast, I discovered a Travertine patio. I could not believe the beauty and how the pattern fit so tight together. The Travertine pavers were calibrated and rectified for a perfect fit. When I returned home to Indiana, I began my search for Travertine and Marble.”
The use of natural stone has increased significantly in recent years. People are tired of concrete products and the problems associated with it. The trend is to go with natural stone for beauty and durability.
With new technology, homeowners now have a variety of natural stone products at a reasonable price. TruStone converts traditional concrete areas into a fabulous space, whether it’s converting a conventional sidewalk, other walking area or swimming pool deck.
Problems with Concrete Patio Construction
The problem with the legacy materials for installers was even though they were cut to dimensional sizes, they allowed a greater tolerance. The pieces varied as much as 1 .5″ in thickness, especially on bluestone. This created a very labor intensive installation. Additionally, the stones’ surface absorbed and retained blistering heat in the summertime, since the stone contains so much metal.
Many homeowners are unaware of their existing walkway or patio problems. Sometimes a surface can be cracked or flaking. “Travertine and Marble pavers are generally an 1.25″ thick. This thickness overlaying the concrete with .675″ – .75” screed sand is a terrific solution,” Stacy says. “It is also a labor efficient and cost efficient because you can actually use the preexisting concrete as the base.”
How To Select Travertine Pavers
All Travertine and Marble are not created equally. Much like any other product, it is graded on quality, structure and beauty. What can be used in milder climates of the United States may not be suitable for the harsher climates of the Midwest. Here’s what to consider before planning to revamp your walkways or patios.
- First, know your budget
- Attend a home and garden show to get ideas for what you would like to do
- Search for and save pictures of ideas you like the most. This will help you plan specific ideas and help you to select the right travertine pavers and control your budget
- Purchasing material from a company in a different region may be a mistake. Always ask if their region is similar in climate as yours.
- Stacy suggests also asking, “Is the supplier close enough that you don’t have to buy more material than you need because they only ship full pallets? Are they close enough to make you feel comfortable that they will guarantee their material and replace any structurally unsound material?”
- Find out if the dealer only sells Travertine and Marble products or if they also have experience installing hardscapes. Can they actually help you with your questions or if unexpected adjustments need to be made?
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I love the stone! After reading this article, my future renos definately include plans for Travertine And Marble.