UPDATED : 1/13/2024
Summer is this season to enjoy outdoor spaces as much as you can especially if you have a swimming pool.
A pool deck is not just a place to lounge and relax but it’s an integral part of the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your outdoor space.
Choosing the right material for your pool deck is crucial.
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There are two popular choices : Marble & Travertine.
Marble vs Travertine Pool Deck: Which Stone is Better ?
If you prefer a luxurious, elegant look and don’t mind regular maintenance, marble could be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more durable, heat-resistant, and slip-resistant option, travertine might be more suitable.
Choosing between travertine vs marble pool deck for a pool deck depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Both stones have their own unique advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and practical requirements.
In this article I will cover :
- What is Travertine & Marble ?
- Marble pool deck pros and cons
- Benefits & drawbacks of travertine pool deck
- Comparing the cost of both pool deck materials
- Proper Maintenance requirements for both flooring options (marble or travertine for pool deck)
- What are the design flexibility options with travertine vs. marble ?
- FAQs
What is Marble ?
Marble is a metamorphic rock, which means it’s formed when existing rock types are subjected to extreme heat and pressure over a long period of time.
Marble is a type of limestone, which is composed mainly of calcium carbonate. Under intense heat and pressure, the limestone recrystallizes, forming a denser rock with characteristic veining.
This process gives marble its renowned smooth, glossy finish and unique look.
Marble has been and still is a very popular choice from ancient times.
An excellent example being the Taj Mahal.
A lot of home owners gravitate towards marble for kitchen countertops or flooring .
It’s always a good idea to seal and maintain marble countertops.
A very good option is sandblasted marble pool deck.
Adding Marble also can increase the property value of your home.
Having said that, it’s also true that marble is a porous material and because of its calcium carbonate content, marble is susceptible to etching and staining, especially when exposed to acidic substances.
What is Travertine ?
Travertine is a form of sedimentary rock. It’s also a member of the limestone family and is formed around mineral spring deposits.
Over time, the accumulation of calcium carbonate results in the formation of travertine, creating a rock characterized by pitted holes and troughs.
These features give travertine its natural, rustic appeal.
It’s a facinating process of limestone caves that limestone transforms into marble and travertine through different natural processes.
Both travertine and marble are different types of limestone
Pros & Cons of Marble Pool Deck
Here are the marble pool deck pros and cons:
So is marble good for pool deck ?
When it comes to infusing a touch of elegance into your outdoor space, a marble pool deck is an excellent choice .
Known for its luxurious look, marble adds an upscale feel to any pool area, transforming it into a sophisticated retreat.
Marble pavers & marble tiles, with their unique design patterns and glossy finish, offer an aesthetic that is hard to replicate.
Each slab of marble is unique, ensuring your pool deck will be one-of-a-kind.
Armani grey sandblasted marble pavers from Burlington Design gallery are one of my favorite.
On the flip side, one of the drawbacks of a marble pool deck is its surface temperature.
During the hot summer months, marble can absorb heat, causing the surface to become quite warm.
It does require a significant amount of maintenance.
It’s susceptible to staining and etching, especially when exposed to pool chemicals or acidic substances, so regular sealing and careful cleaning are necessary to maintain its beauty.
To help prevent slipping on marble outdoor applications near the pools, Marble pavers are available in honed, matte & sandblasted finish.
Tumbled marble pool deck is also a popular option.
This finishes gives the marble pavers texture that helps in making it slip resistant when the deck is wet around the pool. The slip resistant properties differ for differ finishes.
Pros & Cons of Travertine Deck
If you’re looking for a pool deck material that effortlessly blends beauty with practicality, travertine might be the perfect choice.
Known for its natural, earthy aesthetics, travertine provides a warm, inviting ambiance that complements outdoor settings beautifully.
Travertine pavers & Travertine tiles , with their unique pitted surface and range of warm hues, offer a distinct charm that makes each deck unique.
The natural look of travertine, with its variations in pattern and color, can easily transform your pool area into a rustic and serene oasis.
One of the most noteworthy advantages of a travertine pool deck is its cool surface.
Unlike other materials that can become uncomfortably hot under the summer sun, travertine’s porous surface helps keep it cool to the touch, travertine around pool provides a comfortable experience for bare feet.
Another significant benefit of travertine is its non-slip surface.
The naturally porous texture of travertine offers excellent slip resistance, even when wet, making it a right choice for pool decks.
Travertine is also porous in nature and requires sealing and maintenance.
Price of Natural stone : Travertine Vs Marble
Comparing travertine vs marble cost:
In general, marble for pool deck tends to be more expensive than travertine.
The price of marble can range significantly depending on its grade, but it’s common to see prices around $15-$30 per square foot for materials alone for marble around pool.
On the other hand, travertine is usually more affordable, with prices often ranging from $12-$20 per square foot for materials.
Its natural, rustic look can be achieved at a more budget-friendly cost.
Cost of installation marble pavers vs travertine :
Installation costs for both marble and travertine are additional and can vary based on the complexity of the project, the contractor’s rates, and the region in which you live.
In general, you can expect to add $10-$25 per square foot for professional installation.
Choosing Pool decking depending on the Maintenance needed for Natural Stone Pavers : Travertine Vs Marble
Marble pool decking, being a relatively porous material, can be susceptible to staining and etching, especially when exposed to acidic substances such as pool chemicals or even natural substances like lemon juice or wine.
It’s important to seal marble regularly to protect it, and any spills should be cleaned up promptly to prevent potential damage due to everyday use.
If the wet areas are maintained properly, a marble pool deck can remain beautiful for many years, but it may show signs of wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
Travertine, on the other hand, is naturally resistant to heat, frost, and temperature fluctuations, making it a durable choice for outdoor use in various climates.
Its natural texture provides good slip resistance, an important factor for pool decks.
However, like marble, travertine is a porous material and can be prone to staining if not sealed regularly.
It’s also important to clean up spills promptly to prevent potential staining.
When it comes to pool chemicals, travertine flooring generally fares better than marble due to its higher resistance to etching.
What are the design flexibility options ?
Marble stone is known for its luxurious and elegant colour variation.
It has a smooth, glossy finish and unique veining that can make your pool deck truly stand out.
Marble is available in different colors usually in shades of white, black, grey, green, or pink, which can blend seamlessly into various pool designs.
The unique veins and swirls in each marble slab makes it the best option for creating unique design patterns for a truly one-of-a-kind pool deck.
Marble can be polished for a high-gloss finish or honed for a more matte look, offering some flexibility in design.
However, for pool decks, a honed or tumbled finish or sandblasted finish is often recommended to provide more slip resistance.
Travertine stone comes in a wider range of colors mostly earthy, including various shades of beige, brown, ivory, and gold, allowing it to blend naturally with outdoor landscapes.
Travertine can also be finished in a variety of ways, including polished, honed, brushed, or tumbled, each offering a slightly different look and feel.
I am thankful to Burlington Design gallery who let me make this video that shows some of their marble and Travertine pavers.
Alternatives to Marble or Travertine Pavers
- Concrete Pavers : If you are wanting an alternative to natural stone, Concrete Pavers are also an option.
- Porcelain Pavers : Porcelain pavers are a very good option for modern look. They are very dense, hard, and non-porous tile that is highly resistant to moisture, staining, and wear.
- Brick Pavers : Brick pavers are a timeless choice for pool decks, offering a blend of durability & functionality,
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FAQs
How often should I seal my travertine pool deck?
It’s recommended to seal your travertine pool deck at least once a year to protect it from stains and damage.
Do Travertine pavers pool deck require less maintenance than marble ?
Yes, Marble pool requires more maintenance than travertine pool decking.
Does marble get hot in the sun?
Marble can become warm under the sun, but it’s not as heat-resistant as travertine.
Can marble and travertine withstand harsh winter conditions?
Both stones can withstand winter conditions, but they should be properly sealed to prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
Which is more expensive, a marble or travertine pool deck?
Generally, marble tends to be more expensive than travertine both in terms of initial investment
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What are sandblasted Marble Pavers ?
Sandblasted Marble Pavers
Sandblasted marble pavers are a type of stone flooring or pathway material made from marble that has undergone a sandblasting process.
This process gives the marble a textured, matte finish that not only enhances its natural beauty but also provides better traction compared to polished marble.
What is Sandblasting?
Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, involves forcefully propelling a stream of abrasive material, usually sand, against a surface under high pressure.
This erodes the surface, leaving it with a rough texture.
2. Advantages of Sandblasted Marble Pavers:
- Traction: The rough texture provides better grip and reduces the chances of slipping, especially when wet. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor applications.
- Aesthetics: Sandblasting can highlight the natural veining and characteristics of the marble, giving it a more rustic appearance.
- Durability: The process can help seal the marble’s pores, making it more resistant to wear and environmental factors.
This post was about Marble vs Travertine Pool Deck: Which Stone is Better
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