Is Travertine Slippery When Wet?

Choosing the right material for a pool deck or outdoor patio can be daunting. You want something durable, timeless, and safe underfoot, especially if the surrounding climate sees a great deal of rain. (Or there will be a pool or hot tub nearby.) One question often asked by homeowners and designers alike is: Is travertine slippery when wet?

With its luxurious texture and variety of colors, travertine can be used outside. (We love it for outdoor floors and walls alike.) However, understanding how its finish and installation affect slip resistance is key.

In this article, we’ll explain what travertine tile is, whether travertine pavers are slippery when wet, and how to safely incorporate this natural stone into your outdoor design. We’ll also share a few striking travertine patio ideas to inspire your next project.

What’s a Travertine Tile?

Travertine is a type of limestone formed by mineral deposits from natural springs. Its surface features beautiful tonal variations, pitting, veining, and unique texture, making each piece distinct. This natural stone paver has been used for centuries in both indoor and outdoor architecture, offering a warm, organic look that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings.

Travertine tile comes in several finishes, including honed, polished, tumbled, and brushed. Each finish offers a different feel underfoot, so it’s important to choose the finish carefully. That said, because of its versatility and durability, travertine is the perfect choice for outdoor patio projects, pathways, and pool decks that see regular foot traffic.

Are Travertine Pavers Slippery When Wet?

Is travertine slippery when wet? Well, the answer depends on the finish. In general, honed or tumbled travertine pavers offer better slip resistance than polished finishes, which can become slick when exposed to water. That’s because honed and tumbled finishes naturally have more traction, wet or dry.

Honed travertine is lightly sanded to create a smooth but matte surface. Tumbled travertine, meanwhile, has been processed in a large barrel with abrasive materials to give it a more rustic and aged look. Both of these techniques create the ideal balance of texture and comfort under bare feet.

Polished travertine, on the other hand, has a glossy finish that reflects light beautifully but isn’t the best choice for wet areas like pool decks. If you expect heavy traffic or frequent splashing, opt for honed or tumbled travertine for maximum traction and safety. Want extra insurance? You can also consider having your contractor cut your tile down into smaller tiles, which increases the need for grout. (More grout means more traction.)

With the right texture and penetrating sealant, travertine’s natural pores actually help improve grip underfoot, making it a solid choice for outdoor flooring.

Using Travertine for Pool Decks: What to Keep in Mind

When properly maintained, a travertine pool deck remains slip resistant and beautiful for years to come. Here are a few things to remember when specifying travertine for your (or a client’s) pool deck.

• Choose the right finish. Always use honed or tumbled travertine for areas that will get wet. Honed travertine tiles offer a soft, natural matte surface with good slip resistance, while tumbled travertine tiles offer even more grip.
• Seal properly. A quality penetrating sealer helps prevent stains — especially from pool chemicals or outdoor elements — while maintaining slip resistance. Always reference a tile’s material guidelines for sealant recommendations.
• Account for drainage. Proper slope and spacing between tiles will help water flow away from the surface, minimizing slick spots. This type of planning is best handled by landscape architects and other experts.
• Mind the traffic. Travertine pavers can handle high foot traffic and even heavy traffic in outdoor areas when installed correctly. This makes them ideal for patios, walkways, and driveways. (Again, just be sure to reference the tile’s technical specs for exact usage information.)
• Clean regularly. Occasional cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner keeps buildup away and helps with travertine stain removal. The tile’s material guidelines are your best reference here.

When properly maintained, travertine pool deck tiles remain slip resistant and beautiful for years to come. Our lapidary and Pemberley Pavers collections have a number of beautiful options to choose from.