How Much Do Travertine Countertops Cost?
While not as common as granite, marble, and quartz, travertine countertops are growing in popularity. And it’s not surprising — travertine is a beautiful and durable stone that adds timeless beauty to just about any kitchen or bathroom.
But as you’re trying to decide on which natural stone materials for countertops to go with, the cost is no doubt one of your biggest concerns.
So how much do travertine countertops cost?
In this 5-minute read, we’ll give you everything you need to know.
What is a Travertine Countertop?
A travertine countertop is a counter made with either a single large slab of travertine stone or a countertop with a wooden or concrete base covered with travertine tiles.
As you look at different travertine materials, you’ll find several different types of finishes.
Types of Finishes
- Polished Finish – Surface voids are filled with a resin and then the surface is ground, sanded, and polished to create a glossy finish.
- Tumbled Finish – This is a somewhat rustic finish and isn’t recommended for countertops. However, it is a popular choice for backsplashes.
- Chiseled Edge – The edges have been chiseled to give an irregular rustic finish. This is common on travertine tile used for backsplashes.
- Honed Finish – Surface voids are usually filled and then the surface is ground down to a smooth, but unpolished finish.
Step #2: Mark the area and excavate
*Polished and honed finishes are the most popular types for bathroom vanity tops and kitchen countertops.
Travertine Countertops Costing
So what can you expect to pay on average? Here are some prices that can give you a general idea.
*IMPORTANT! – Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on colors, grades, shapes, finishes, etc. See more in the following section.
Slab Countertops
Travertine slab countertops are the most expensive. They’re made from a single large stone slab. For large countertops, several slabs may be used.
Travertine slabs can cost anywhere from $25 to $100 per square foot. Add on the budget for labor and you’re looking at $50-$100 per square foot for a fully installed countertop.
That means just for materials, a 28-square-foot countertop could cost anywhere from $700 – $2800.
Travertine Tile Countertops
Travertine tile countertops are a budget-friendly option. Travertine tiles for countertops cost anywhere from $6 to $25 per square foot (a fraction of the price of slabs). Add an extra $100-$200 for materials like mortar, grout, and sealer, as well as several hundred dollars for labor costs.
That means just for materials, a 28-square-foot countertop could cost anywhere from $350 – $900.
Travertine Countertops Costs by Size
Obviously, the larger the countertop, the more it will cost. But large slab countertops tend to be much more expensive than smaller slabs.
Larger slabs are harder to work with and process, so their costs tend to be much higher. They’re also harder to install, so you can expect the charges for labor to be more.
Other Costs and Factors on Travertine Countertops
Here are a few other factors that will affect the prices of travertine countertop products.
- Countertop Installation Costs: Just like granite countertops, large slabs, complicated kitchen designs, and unusual shapes will all cause the price to go up.
- Sealants: Don’t forget to check with your installer to see if they’ll seal the countertops once they’re installed or if that is something you will have to do.
- Home Deliveries and Labor Fees: Pay special attention to the fine print and make sure you understand all the delivery and installation fees. For example, some installers may charge extra to remove and throw out your existing countertops.
- Maintenance Costs: Don’t forget that travertine does require regular maintenance like periodic sealing and cleaning with a natural stone cleaner. Those maintenance costs add up over time and will increase the lifetime cost of your countertops.
- Color Choices for Countertops: Unique travertine colors with striking patterns will tend to cost more than the more common tan, grey, and beige travertine countertops.
Cost of DIY Installation on Travertine Countertops
So what about DIYing your countertop installation? While natural stone countertops are best left to the professionals, if you’re an experienced DIYer, you might consider tackling a small travertine countertop on your own.
In that case, you could save virtually all the labor costs and only have to pay for materials. Just remember that if you order a travertine slab, you’ll need at least one other person to help since the slabs can weigh hundreds of pounds!
*PRO TIP – If you want to do a DIY countertop, don’t start with your kitchen countertop. It’s better to start with something like a bathroom countertop. It’s a smaller project that’s easy to handle, doesn’t cost as much, and gives you some good practice before moving on to a countertop more people will see.