Bring your travertine floors back to life with expert cleaning and sealing—trusted by Austin homeowners for over a decade!
Do you see dull spots, dirty grout lines, or patchy areas on your travertine tile? Moving into a new home in West Lake, Central Austin, or surrounding neighborhoods? Santa Fe Floor Care specializes in reviving natural stone floors—even after years of neglect—while preserving the elegant, high-hone finish that makes your space shine.
Why Choose Santa Fe Floor Care?
- Austin’s Local Experts: Over 10 years serving West Lake, Sun City, and greater Austin. We know the unique soil and climate challenges that affect travertine in Central Texas homes.
- Advanced, Stone-Safe Process: We use a multi-step system tailored to each floor. First, we deep-clean using a circular brush and a stone-safe alkaline solution to gently lift embedded dirt—especially where rugs or high-traffic areas cause uneven wear.
- Consistent, Stunning Results: Next, our diamond-embedded honing pads restore a uniform finish across the entire room. We seal with a water-based, impregnating stone sealer for lasting protection—no harsh odors or residues.
- Transparent, Upfront Pricing: No surprise fees—get a free estimate before any work begins.
See the Difference—Hear From Your Neighbors:
“Bryan did a fantastic job. Looks new like the day we built our house. Friendly, professional, and highly recommended!” — Bryant W., Austin, TX
“We’ve used these guys twice to seal our tile grout. Professional, reasonable, easy to work with.” — Kenny K.
“Floors are stunning! Mr. Young was knowledgeable, timely, and the results far exceeded our expectations.” — Mr. & Mrs. James Armstrong, Sun City
The Challenge
- The main challenge was to remove soil from the tiles so the Travertine would not show an obvious transition from clean to dirty tiles.
- Emphasis on preserving the natural look of a high hone finish.
The Cleaning Process
- Statement of being well equipped with the right tools.
- Step 1: Cleaned the outer tiles and the perimeter of where the rug once laid.
- Used a circular stiff brush and a stone-safe alkaline solution.
- Step 2: Repeated the cleaning process for the entire room.
- Used a circular diamond embedded honing pad.
- This helped maintain a consistent finish throughout the room.
Why Sealing Makes All the Difference
Sealing is one of those steps you don’t want to skip—not if you care about keeping your travertine floors looking sharp for years to come. Natural stone, including travertine, is famously porous. That means liquids like wine, coffee, and even just muddy Austin rain can seep in and leave stubborn stains that are tough (and sometimes impossible) to remove completely.
When we apply a high-quality, water-based impregnating sealer after cleaning and honing, it creates an invisible barrier that repels spills and blocks dirt from getting cozy in those tiny pores. You get more time to wipe up accidents, less risk of discoloration, and lower maintenance overall. Ultimately, sealing your travertine is a smart, cost-effective way to preserve that beautiful finish—and save yourself the hassle of future deep cleans or pricey repairs.
Why Sealing Travertine Floors Matters
Sealing travertine is the secret weapon against unsightly stains—whether from a tipped glass of cabernet or the remnants of muddy boots tracking in from a windy Austin afternoon. Travertine, much like other natural stones, has a tendency to soak up liquids and oils because of its porous surface. Without a protective barrier, spills can quickly seep in and leave frustrating marks behind.
Applying a high-quality, water-based impregnating sealer creates an almost invisible shield over the stone. This layer acts like a raincoat for your floors, giving you extra time to wipe up spills before they settle in. As a result, stains are far less likely to take hold, and your beautiful high hone finish stays looking pristine for the long haul.
Not only does this simple step save you from future cleaning headaches, but it also helps preserve the natural beauty and value of your travertine—a win all around.
Addressing Surface Imperfections in Travertine
If you’re noticing dull spots, light scratches, or etching taking away from your travertine’s beauty, don’t worry—these flaws can be expertly addressed. The process starts by honing the surface with diamond pads, carefully working out shallow scratches and imperfections to restore a smooth, even finish. For areas showing more significant dullness or etching, technicians utilize additional honing or polishing steps, using either fine diamond abrasives or specialty polishing powders. This method removes damaged layers and leaves the travertine looking fresh and cohesive.
Depending on your desired look, you can opt for a soft matte, “high hone” finish that feels velvety and inviting, or continue polishing for a glossy, glass-like shine—or even settle on something in between. This way, both the function and the style of your floor are preserved, blending beautifully across the room.
Travertine Stain Removal
Even with the most diligent care, stains can occasionally find their way onto travertine floors—wine splashes, coffee spills, or the mysterious marks that appear seemingly overnight. The good news? Most stains and discolorations don’t have to be permanent guests. Depending on the type of stain, solutions range from gentle household remedies to more specialized products.
If you notice a fresh stain, act quickly by blotting (not rubbing) with a soft, absorbent cloth. For organic stains from food or beverages, a poultice made from baking soda and water can often lift the discoloration—just apply the paste over the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit for a day or two before gently rinsing. Oil-based stains may respond well to a mixture of acetone and baking soda, while rust marks sometimes require commercial stone-safe rust removers from trusted brands like Laticrete StoneTech or Aqua Mix.
Of course, if you’re unsure of the stain’s source, or if the discoloration persists after spot treatments, it may be best to consult professionals who can safely assess and address the problem without risking damage to your stone. That way, your travertine can continue serving up its high-end look without reminders of last week’s dinner party or the kids’ art project gone awry.
Ongoing Maintenance for High-Traffic Travertine
For areas of your home where the travertine gets plenty of footsteps—think entryways, kitchens, or busy hallways—a regular maintenance routine is key to keeping that beautiful finish intact. We recommend setting up a consistent schedule for professional cleaning and resealing. This helps protect the stone from everyday spills, tracked-in debris, and wear, ensuring your floors always look their best.
You may also want to:
- Use soft-bristled brooms or vacuums to clear away grit and dust regularly.
- Mop with a pH-neutral cleaner made specifically for natural stone.
- Add rugs or runners in especially busy zones to catch dirt before it ever touches the stone.
With a little care (and the occasional expert touch), your travertine will hold onto its charm and luster for years to come.
Comprehensive Travertine Care Services
Travertine flooring comes with its own unique set of needs, and knowing what’s available can make a world of difference in keeping your stone looking its absolute best—whether you’re in a cozy bungalow, a sprawling office suite, or a busy corner café. Here’s a quick overview of services commonly available for travertine surfaces:
- Deep Cleaning: From removing years of embedded soil after a wild housewarming party to tackling forgotten corners exposed when the rug goes, professional cleaning targets grime, food stains, and whatever else life throws at your tile.
- Sealing: An essential step to protect against spills and soil—water-based impregnators from trusted brands like Miracle Sealants or StoneTech help lock in that natural beauty while keeping new messes on the surface, not in the stone.
- Honing and Polishing: If your floor’s finish is uneven or looking a bit worse for wear, diamond honing pads can restore a smooth, consistent sheen—anywhere from matte to high hone or a full-on glossy polish.
- Repairs and Restoration: Chips, cracks, and holes don’t stand a chance against patching, filling, and re-blending—sometimes with color-matched resins or fillers—so the floor looks seamless again.
- Maintenance Programs: Regular cleaning, freshening up grout, and periodic re-sealing help prevent big messes before they happen and keep the travertine in top shape for years to come.
Whether your stone just needs a quick pick-me-up or a complete do-over, there’s a tailored solution for every setting and challenge.
Tackling Tough Stains and Residue
Travertine can be a bit tricky, especially when you’re dealing with unfilled stone. The natural pits and textures love to collect not just ordinary soil, but also soap film from showers, soot around fireplaces, and those stubborn layers left by old topical treatments. To solve this, we roll up our sleeves and follow a tried-and-true process:
- For soap scum or film: We apply a pH-balanced stone cleaner and use a gentle scrubbing tool, thoroughly rinsing the surface to avoid leaving any residue behind. This helps lift away build-up without harming the travertine.
- To address soot or fireplace staining: A targeted, stone-safe degreaser combined with soft bristle brushes pulls soot out of pores without scratching the surface.
- For removing old waxes or topical sealers: We use appropriate stone-safe stripping solutions, letting them dwell long enough to break down the old layers, followed by careful mechanical agitation to leave the stone’s natural beauty exposed.
Of course, patience is key—each area is given the attention it deserves so everything ends up looking consistent from edge to edge. After a thorough clean and spot treatment as needed, we’re ready for the next stage.
The Unique Challenges of Unfilled Travertine
Unfilled travertine is a beautiful flooring choice, but it comes with its own set of cleaning hurdles. Unlike its filled counterpart, unfilled travertine features natural pits and holes that love to trap dirt, dust, and debris. Over time, soil collects in these low spots, making the floor look unevenly dirty—especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.
These nooks and crannies can also hold onto residue from old cleaners, soap film, and even the occasional fireplace soot (for those lucky enough to have one). If ignored, these areas can become noticeably darker than the surrounding tile, ruining that seamless, high-hone finish we strive for.
Addressing these stubborn spots is no easy task—you need the right tools, tailored cleaning solutions, and a keen eye for consistency.
What Is Travertine Refinishing (and When Should You Consider It)?
Travertine refinishing comes into play when your floors start looking dull, scratched, or patchy from wear and tear—or if you simply want to change up the current finish. Think of refinishing as hitting the refresh button for your stone’s surface. Over time, foot traffic, dragged furniture, or even daily life can cause the finish to lose its luster or appear uneven, especially on a stone as elegant as travertine.
This process restores the surface to a smooth, consistent appearance by carefully honing away blemishes and imperfections. If you’re eyeing a shift from a glossy polish to a softer matte—or vice versa—refinishing makes that transformation possible without replacing any tile. And best of all? When done by experienced professionals, your floor’s natural beauty and unique character are preserved, not lost in the process.
Blending Repairs for a Seamless Look
When it comes to repairing travertine, the key to a great result is making sure the patched area doesn’t stand out like a sore thumb. Here’s how we tackle it: if a tile has a crack, chip, or hole, we carefully fill it using a compatible filler that’s color-matched to the existing stone.
Once the repair is set, we hone and polish the area, feathering the edges so the texture and sheen match the rest of your floor or countertop. This process ensures the repair blends right in, leaving you with a seamless surface where it’s almost impossible to spot the prior damage. This careful attention to detail is what keeps travertine looking timeless—whether it’s in a busy entryway or on a subtle kitchen countertop.
Smoothing Out the Surface: Travertine Grinding and Lippage Removal
Of course, cleaning only goes so far if your travertine tiles aren’t perfectly flat. Sometimes, especially with older installations or uneven subfloors, you’ll notice ridges or lips where the tiles meet—what we in the stone care world call “lippage.” Not only can these uneven edges create tripping hazards, but they also make your floors look less refined and are difficult to clean.
To address this, we employ a diamond grinding process. Using professional-grade machines fitted with diamond abrasives, we carefully grind down the higher edges so the tile surface becomes flush across the floor, right up to the grout lines. Not only does this make the floor smoother underfoot, but it also gives it that continuous, seamless look that shows off travertine at its best.
After grinding, we move on to honing and polishing. This evens out the finish and brings back the subtle, satiny sheen or higher gloss—depending on your style preference. The result? A safer, more beautiful floor that’s a breeze to maintain.
Travertine Repairs
If your travertine has seen better days—maybe it’s picked up a chip near the entryway or developed a hairline crack that’s bugging you every time you walk by—don’t worry, replacement isn’t your only option. Damaged areas such as chips, cracks, or even small holes can often be expertly repaired instead. The process typically involves filling the damaged section with a stone-compatible filler and carefully color-matching it to the surrounding tile, so the repair blends right in with the rest of the floor (or countertop, if that’s where your travertine woes are hiding).
Once restored, we use the same honing and polishing techniques that keep the rest of your travertine looking sharp, ensuring a consistent, seamless finish—whether your stone is a lightly honed matte or gleaming with a polished sheen.
Correcting Uneven Travertine Tiles and Lippage
Sometimes, travertine floors develop uneven tiles, known as lippage, which not only looks a bit unsightly but can also be a trip hazard—nobody wants to stub their toe on the way to the kitchen. To address this, we bring out diamond grinding technology. This approach lets us gently grind down the high spots, making the tiles level with each other and their grout lines.
Once the floor is nice and flat, we continue by honing the entire surface. This step evens out the finish and preps the stone for polishing, restoring that uniform, sophisticated look you want in your home. The result? A seamless travertine floor that’s easier to clean, safer to walk on, and just as beautiful as the day it was installed.
Travertine Color Enhancing
Travertine’s natural earth tone palette can sometimes appear a bit muted, especially once years of use and cleaning take their toll. That’s where color enhancing comes into play. By applying a specialized enhancing sealer—think of high-quality brands like Miracle Sealants 511 Seal & Enhance—we’re able to bring out deeper, richer tones in the stone. The effect isn’t glossy or artificial; instead, the travertine takes on a subtly intensified look, with more pronounced movement and warmth in its coloration.
This process is particularly effective on certain types of travertine, such as those with lots of variation and character in the stone. The result is a floor that highlights the unique veining and texture of each tile, while preserving that sought-after, natural finish. It’s like adjusting the contrast on a photograph: suddenly, features you didn’t realize were there stand out, adding to the home’s overall elegance.
Restore vs. Replace: What to Do With Damaged Travertine?
Now, you might be wondering—what if your travertine is looking a little worse for wear? Scratches, dull spots, etching, even cracks and chips can happen over the years. But before you even think about the hassle (and cost) of ripping it all out, rest assured: replacement isn’t your only option.
In most cases, even tired or damaged travertine can be brought back to life. With professional cleaning, honing, and sealing, imperfections like etches or scratches can be smoothed out, restoring the stone’s signature beauty. Deeper damage, such as cracks or chips, can often be expertly filled using specialized stone adhesives and color-matched resins—leaving your floors looking as good as the day they were installed.
So if your travertine is showing its age, don’t rush to replace. Restoration can save you time, money, and keep the distinctive look you loved in the first place.
Filling Holes in Travertine: What to Know
Now, you might be wondering about those small holes that sometimes dot the surface of travertine. Travertine is famous for its natural pits and pores—some installations highlight these for a rustic look, while others are filled at the factory or during installation for a smoother, more refined finish. If your travertine has developed new holes over time, or if you’d prefer a sleeker appearance, these holes can absolutely be filled.
The process, known as “floating,” involves applying a special filler that’s carefully color-matched to your stone. If your floor started out with unfilled travertine, filling the openings can completely transform the feel—from earthy and rugged to elegantly smooth. For filled travertine that’s showing new voids, we use the same approach: matching the filler, smoothing it out, and honing the surface until the patch blends seamlessly with the rest of the floor.
This isn’t just about looks—it also makes the surface easier to clean and helps prevent further soil from settling inside those crevices. Once the filler is set and we’ve finished with honing and polishing, your floors get a uniform, polished look that truly elevates the space.
Filled vs. Unfilled Travertine: What’s the Difference?
Travertine is known for its unique character, thanks to the naturally occurring holes that run throughout the stone. When choosing travertine, homeowners generally encounter two styles:
-
Filled Travertine: Here, the factory fills those natural holes with a color-matched material, resulting in a smoother, more polished surface. This method gives the stone a sleek, refined look and makes it a favorite for spaces where a more finished appearance is desired.
-
Unfilled Travertine: In this style, the holes remain open and exposed. This creates a rustic, earthy vibe that’s perfect for those after a more natural, textured finish underfoot.
Both versions have their own unique charm—filled travertine offers a uniform elegance, while unfilled highlights the stone’s origins and landscape-inspired personality.
What Is Floating, and How Is It Performed on Travertine?
Now, let’s talk about a nifty little trick known as “floating”—not to be confused with floating in Barton Springs on a hot July afternoon. In the context of travertine, floating is all about addressing those pesky holes that either formed over time through wear, or were left unfilled during the stone’s original installation.
Here’s how we tackle it:
- Assessment: We first check whether the travertine has unfilled pitting or if existing filler has popped out, which is common in high-traffic areas.
- Filling: Using a specialized filler that’s tinted to match your stone (think subtle artistry, not cookie-cutter color), we fill in any exposed voids or pits. This ensures those trouble spots blend seamlessly with the rest of your floor.
- Honing and Polishing: Once the filler sets, we hone and polish the surface to unify both the sheen and the texture of the travertine. This step brings everything together—no awkward patches, just a consistent, natural appearance.
- Customization: If you’re feeling creative and want a completely smooth look, we can fill all the holes throughout the entire area, opening up a world of aesthetic options. There’s more flexibility here, since you can select from a range of filler colors to either match or intentionally contrast your stone.
When done right, floating breathes new life into travertine, restoring its signature finish while maintaining a durable, easy-to-clean surface.
What Is Travertine—and How Does It Fit Into Different Styles?
Travertine is a natural stone prized for both its durability and its distinctive character. Depending on how it’s finished, travertine can effortlessly adapt to a variety of interior looks. For those who love a rustic or Mediterranean vibe, its textured surface and warm tones bring a welcoming, old-world charm to any room. Prefer something with a bit more polish? Travertine can also be honed and finished to create sleek, contemporary spaces that showcase its subtle elegance. Whether your style leans toward weathered farmhouse or modern sophistication, travertine tiles offer a versatile canvas that complements almost any aesthetic.
Ready to Love Your Floors Again?
Spots fill quickly—especially before spring and fall move-in dates!
- Start Your Free Consultation or call (512) 632-1621 today.
- Not ready for a quote? See more before & after results here.
Santa Fe Floor Care – Serving Austin, West Lake, Sun City, and nearby communities for over 10 years.
