Marble, Travertine, or Porcelain

Maurizio I prefer to use a tumbled marble or travertine in a shower stall but I was told that it is maintenance intensive and had the propensity to stain (even from grout). Is this true? If I can use marble/travertine, will it last for twenty years or longer and can I use 1/4 inch grout lines on 4 x 4 size?

 

Bill:

"Is this true?" No, it is totally false.

Tumbled marble or travertine are as tough cookies as they come and are extremely low maintenance.

They are not low intelligence, though!... (But this applies also to ceramic tiles.)

The key factor, as usual, is human. If the installation is done right, you're going to have a shower stall that you will enjoy for many years to come (well over 20).

Now the $64 question is: how do I know if they will do a good installation?

This is why it is so important that you are careful when selecting your installer. My recommendation: if you don't have an installer that you know and trust to do quality work, go to www.stoneandtilepros.com and click on the Find a Pro section. All of the contractors listed there are checked out thoroughly. Of course, whatever you do, do your homework and check references on whoever you are considering hiring for the job.

 

I can anticipate that your grout gap may be a bit too much. Anywhere between 1/8" and 3/16" is the perfect size, though if done right, even 1/4" will be all right.