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Travertine pavers are a timeless choice for patios, walkways, and pool decks. Their natural beauty and durability make them a favorite for homeowners and designers alike. But once the pavers are set, the question often arises. What do you put in between travertine pavers to lock them in and keep them stable?

The answer lies in choosing the right joint material. Let’s break down the best options and what they do for your installation.

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1. Polymeric Sand

Polymeric sand ranks among the most popular materials for filling spaces between pavers. Manufacturers mix fine sand with polymer additives, and when you activate it with water, it hardens to form a strong bond.

Benefits:

• Locks pavers in place, preventing shifting.

• Minimizes weed growth.

• Reduces ant infestations.

• Helps prevent erosion of joints.

Polymeric sand is ideal for outdoor spaces that see heavy use, like driveways, patios, and pool decks.

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2. Regular Jointing Sand

Traditional jointing sand is a simpler option. It’s swept into the joints and helps fill gaps, but unlike polymeric sand, it doesn’t harden.

Benefits:

• More budget-friendly.

• Easy to install or reapply if it washes away.

• Works well for areas with lighter traffic.

Keep in mind that jointing sand may require more frequent maintenance

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3. Mortar or Grout (for Tighter Installs)

In some cases, especially for formal designs or indoor/outdoor transitions, mortar or grout can be used.

Benefits:

• Creates a more permanent, seamless finish.

• Reduces movement and shifting.

• Provides a polished look.

However, grout or mortar is less flexible than sand. For outdoor areas where pavers expand and contract with temperature changes, it can be prone to cracking.

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4. Grass or Decorative Ground Cover

For a more natural or rustic look, some homeowners choose to fill joints with grass, moss, or creeping ground covers.

Benefits:

• Softens the look of the stone.

• Adds greenery and texture.

• Environmentally friendly option.

This approach requires more upkeep, but it can create a unique, organic aesthetic.

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Choosing the Right Option – What do you put in between travertine pavers to lock them in?

The best joint filler for your travertine pavers depends on your goals:

• Durability & low maintenance → Polymeric sand.

• Budget-friendly, easy fix → Regular jointing sand.

• Formal, permanent look → Mortar or grout.

• Natural, rustic charm → Grass or ground cover.

By choosing the right filler, you not only lock your travertine pavers in place but also protect them against weeds, erosion, and shifting—ensuring your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Travertine is one of the most popular natural stone choices for outdoor patios, pool decks, and walkways—and for good reason. Not only is it beautiful and durable, but it also stays cooler underfoot compared to many other paving materials. However, not all travertine pavers react the same way to heat. The color you choose can make a big difference in how hot (or cool) the surface feels in direct sunlight.

Why Color Matters

Just like clothing or roofing materials, darker colors absorb more heat while lighter colors reflect it. This same principle applies to travertine pavers. A dark walnut or espresso travertine will soak up sunlight and feel warmer, whereas a light ivory or beige travertine will stay noticeably cooler.

For areas with heavy sun exposure—such as pool decks or open patios—lighter travertine is the better choice for comfort and usability.

Light-Colored Travertine Pavers That Stay Cooler

Here are a few options that typically remain cooler in the sun:

• Ivory Travertine – Soft cream and off-white tones make this one of the coolest travertine options underfoot.

• Light Beige Travertine – Warm but pale shades reflect more sunlight, reducing surface heat.

• Shell Stone Travertine – A very light, sandy look that naturally deflects heat.

• Silver Travertine (lighter variations) – Some silver travertine has pale gray and cream tones that stay cooler than darker batches.

Ideal for Pool Decks and Outdoor Living

If you’re planning to install travertine around a pool, lighter colors are almost always recommended. Not only do they resist heat, but they also brighten the outdoor space and give it a more open, elegant look. Plus, cooler pavers reduce the risk of burnt feet on hot summer days—something families and pets will appreciate.

Final Thoughts – What travertine pavers do not get hot in the sun?

Travertine pavers are already one of the most heat-resistant natural stone choices, but if staying cool in the sun is a top priority, go with light-colored options like ivory, beige, or shell stone. They provide all the durability and elegance of travertine while ensuring your outdoor space is comfortable, even in the peak of summer.

Travertine pavers are a timeless choice for patios, pool decks, walkways, and driveways. Their natural beauty and durability make them a favorite among homeowners and designers. However, travertine is a porous natural stone that requires the right care. Using the wrong products can permanently damage the surface, dull the finish, or weaken the stone’s integrity. If you want your investment to last, it’s just as important to know what not to use on travertine as it is to know the right maintenance routine.

1. Harsh Acidic Cleaners

One of the biggest mistakes people make is cleaning travertine with acidic solutions like vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach. These can etch the surface, leaving dull spots and rough patches. Even some “all-purpose” or bathroom cleaners contain acids that will eat away at the stone’s natural finish.

Tip: Always stick to pH-neutral stone cleaners that are specifically designed for natural stone surfaces.

2. Abrasive Scrub Brushes or Pads

Travertine may look tough, but it scratches easily. Avoid using steel wool, wire brushes, or rough scouring pads. These can leave permanent scratches and make the stone more vulnerable to staining.

Tip: Use soft microfiber cloths or non-abrasive brushes for scrubbing.

3. Pressure Washers at High PSI

While pressure washers are commonly used outdoors, blasting travertine with too much force can cause chipping, cracking, or loosening of the pavers. High PSI settings can also erode grout and sealant.

Tip: If you do use a pressure washer, keep it at a low PSI (under 1200) and use a wide spray nozzle.

4. Harsh Chemicals and Solvents

Avoid products like ammonia, bleach, or paint removers. These chemicals not only discolor the stone but can also weaken its structural integrity. Over time, repeated use will cause the stone to lose its natural luster.

Tip: If you need to remove a tough stain, use a poultice or a stone-safe spot treatment recommended for travertine.

5. Salt and Ice-Melt Products

In colder climates, many people use rock salt or chemical ice melts on walkways. Unfortunately, these products can seep into the pores of travertine and cause pitting, flaking, and long-term damage.

Tip: Use sand or a stone-safe alternative for traction in icy conditions instead.

6. Wax or Oil-Based Polishes

It might be tempting to make travertine look shinier with waxes or oil-based products, but these can leave behind residue, attract dirt, and make the surface slippery.

Tip: If you want to enhance the stone’s look, use a penetrating sealer or enhancer made for natural stone.

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Final Thoughts

Travertine pavers are a beautiful investment, but like all natural stone, they need the right care. By avoiding harsh cleaners, abrasives, and chemicals, you’ll preserve their beauty for years to come. Always choose products labeled safe for natural stone and when in doubt, test a small, hidden area before applying anything new.