The Complete Guide to Travertine Switch Plate Covers
With their natural beauty and one-of-a-kind patterns, travertine switch plate covers are a gorgeous way to enhance any room's style. These functional wall plates made of real travertine stone add an elegant finish while covering unsightly switches, outlets, and controls. If you're considering using these stone accents in your home, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
An Introduction to Travertine Switch Plates
Travertine switch plate covers provide the perfect combination of form and function. Made from travertine, a type of natural limestone filled with distinct holes, pits, and linear patterns, they bring chic style to boring switches and outlets. The travertine stone's earthy tones and variation make each switch plate cover entirely unique. While adding instant character, these durable covers also disguise wall infrastructure for a cleaner, more harmonious look.
In addition totheir aesthetic appeal, travertine switch plates have many benefits. They are durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean with just mild soap and water. Installing them is a simple DIY project that requires no special skills. They are commonly used to complement travertine backsplashes and countertops, but also add stylish flair to any room. For those seeking to elevate their interior design, travertine switch plates are an elegant finishing touch.
Travertine Stone Background
To understand what makes travertine switch plates special, it helps to first look at the characteristics of travertine itself. Travertine is a form of limestone that forms through a process of rapid precipitation, often near hot springs, rivers, or caves. Dissolved carbon dioxide escapes from hot, mineral-rich ground water, forming calcium carbonate deposits on surfaces such as rock. These deposits build up, creating the distinctive travertine stone.
Travertine's porous surface and cavities come from carbon dioxide bubbles that form as the calcium carbonate hardens. The natural color variations result from mineral impurities introducing hints of rust, green, tan, brown, gold, or grey. When cut and polished, these imperfections shine through for an organic, earthy look. Thanks to its durability and beauty, travertine is popular for floors, walls, countertops, and decorative accents.
Selecting Travertine Switch Plate Covers
When choosing travertine switch plate covers, pay attention to the stone's consistency. Look for tiles with minimal voids, pits, and filled areas to ensure the most seamless finish. The radiusing process that rounds a tile's edges can sometimes cause hidden voids to become exposed. It's best to wait and seal your switch plates after installation to avoid sealing over newly opened holes.
There are many gorgeous styles of travertine switch plates to match your home's look. Popular options include:
- Tumbled - With a rugged, distressed finish created by tumbling and abrading the edges.
- Honed - Polished smooth for a clean, contemporary appearance.
- Noce - Showcasing the remarkable coloring found in travertine from the Noce quarry.
When ordering, also consider sizing. Travertine outlet plates, double switch cover plates, and triple switch cover plates are readily available. Take measurements to ensure a customized fit.
Installing Travertine Switch Plates
Installing travertine switch plate covers is a straightforward DIY project. Each cover simply fits over your existing switches, outlets, or controls and attaches with standard screws (included). No wiring or electrical work is required. Just be sure to turn off the power before swapping out your old wall plates.
While a simple DIY job, you can also hire an electrician to install your travertine switch plates quickly and professionally. Many will do so in coordination with a larger renovation. Pro installation ensures proper fitting and function.
Design Ideas and Rooms for Travertine Switch Covers
When considering where to incorporate travertine switch plates in your home, it helps to think about rooms where you want to elevate the design. Here are some ideas:
Kitchens - Few rooms benefit more from travertine's elegance than the kitchen. Travertine switch plates lend a high-end look when paired with travertine backsplashes or coordinating countertops. Their durability also suits this busy, high-traffic space.
Bathrooms - From travertine sinks to tile surrounds, travertine suits bathrooms perfectly. Match switch plates to your existing travertine features or use them to introduce this luxurious stone's aesthetic. Their moisture resistance makes travertine ideal for humid bathroom conditions.
Entryways, Halls and Common Areas - You only get one first impression! Dress up your home's entryways, hallways and high-traffic common areas with travertine switch plates for an instant style upgrade.
Caring for Travertine Switch Plate Covers
To keep travertine switch plates looking like new, proper care is key. Fortunately, maintenance is quite simple. Use a soft cloth with mild soap and warm water to clean gently as needed. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbing, which can damage the stone. Re-sealing every so often will help protect the travertine, especially along any radiused edges.
Unique Travertine-Style Options
While natural travertine switch plates bring unrivaled beauty, you can also find stylish manufactured options. Fauxstone resin plates mimic travertine's elegance at lower cost. Each piece is uniquely variegated. For a vintage twist, try distressed-look switch plates featuring an antiqued travertine-inspired finish.
When investing in high-quality travertine switch plates, shop smart. Purchase from reputable sellers to ensure you receive authentic travertine. Third-party return policies may vary, so review prior to buying. For international orders, know that shipping fees and import duties often apply. While costs may be higher, travertine switch plates provide timeless sophistication and appeal. As a special finishing touch, these striking stone covers can elevate your home's style significantly.