Flagstone vs. Travertine: What Is Better for Your Project?

When it comes to outdoor projects, two of the most popular options are flagstone and travertine. Made from natural materials such as limestone, sandstone, and quartz, both flagstone, and travertine provide an elegant look that is sure to enhance any outdoor space. Choosing travertine or flagstone can be a difficult decision, so we have outlined the key differences and similarities between these two materials to help you make an informed choice.

Let's dive in.

What Is Flagstone?

Flagstone is a flat, layered material typically made of limestone, sandstone, or quartz. It can come in a variety of colors and textures, with popular shades including gray, blue-gray, brown, and red. Flagstone's layers give it a natural, organic look that makes it perfect for outdoor projects like driveways, patios, and walkways. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, flagstone also has great durability.

What Is Travertine?

Travertine is a type of limestone that is formed over time by the accumulation of minerals. It has a unique, rustic look and comes in colors such as light beige, ivory, and tan. Travertine is also highly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures. And since it is a natural material, travertine can help create a more eco-friendly outdoor space.

Travertine vs Flagstone: Beauty

Flagstone and travertine are both praised for their beauty and elegance, making them popular choices for outdoor projects. Our patterned flagstone for sale is known for its rich textures, colors, and organic layers that give it a unique look. Travertine has a more uniform appearance, with a smooth surface that reflects light in subtle but stunning ways. Both flagstone and travertine come in various colors, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Silver travertine is one of our favorites.

Flagstone vs Travertine: Cost

The cost of travertine vs flagstone can vary depending on the size and type of material you choose. Generally, the cost of flagstone installation is slightly more economical than that of travertine, with prices ranging from $2,100 to $4,000 for a 300-square-foot project. Flagstone material alone can cost between $3 to $7 per square foot, and installation costs are usually in the range of $9 to $14 per square foot. Flagstone vs travertine pavers cost about the same per hour, but installing flagstone is usually faster.

Travertine vs Flagstone Pool Coping: Heat Resistance

Flagstone vs travertine pools gets extra interesting here. When it comes to picking a pool deck for your home, heat resistance is an important consideration. Flagstone may not be the best choice due to its inability to withstand hot temperatures. However, travertine pavers are ideal as they remain 20-30% cooler than other kinds of pool decks, such as flagstone and concrete.

Even in scorching summer months, these pavers will remain comfortable on the feet, offering a more refreshing experience when compared to flagstone options. Given that they are designed to retain their cool no matter what the climate brings, travertine provides a great option for any pool area.

Flagstone vs Travertine Pool Deck: Water Absorbing Capacity

When it comes to safety, choosing a pool deck that is water-absorbent is essential, especially when children are present. Travertine decks outperform those of flagstone in this regard due to their capacity to quickly and effectively draw moisture from the surface. This makes the classic travertine decking less slippery, ensuring a safe area for little ones to enjoy without worry.

Travertine vs. Flagstone: Safety

Perhaps the most important factor to consider between travertine vs flagstone pavers is safety. Travertine pool decking is an excellent choice for providing slip resistance around the pool area. The surface of the stone itself helps to create a safer environment, while its superior water-absorbing capacity stops hazardous puddles from forming which could result in a slip hazard.

By comparison, other floating deck options like flagstone do not provide the same level of safety as travertine, due to their lower absorbency levels.

Flagstone vs Travertine Pavers: Versatility

For travertine pavers vs flagstone, having a variety of visual options is important. When it comes to versatility and style, travertine pool decking is an unbeatable choice. With its range of styles, colors, and textures that resemble limestone, marble, or even granite – you can achieve the look and feel you want at a cost-effective price.

On top of that, this form of calcified stone has a long lifespan if taken care of properly. However, flagstone still makes an attractive option for outdoor spaces, providing a unique look due to its natural and organic variations.

Flagstone vs Travertine Pavers: Eco-Friendliness

If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, then flagstone pool decks could be the perfect choice for you. Created from natural materials such as plant glue and sand, these floors are not only strong and durable, but their lesser heat absorbency also creates an ideal climate for plants to grow around your pool deck.

This will help to maintain a low carbon footprint in your environment, while still enjoying all the features that make pools such an attractive feature in any backyard. With plenty of plants around your pool decking, you can transform any backyard into a tranquil tropical oasis.

Conclusion

Choosing between flagstone vs travertine pavers is a complex decision to make. Both materials come with unique advantages and drawbacks, which must be considered before making any commitments. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on what factors we discussed the matter to you the most!

For those in the surrounding Columbus and Cincinnati area, Stone Center is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to help you decide on the best material for your project. With a range of natural stone landscaping products available, we are just a call away!