Q. We found a travertine vessel sink for our master bath and would like to know pros and cons vs. a standard ceramic/porcelain sink. Primarily, is sealing necessary? What sealer to use if it is? What maintenance products are necessary and how often? I'm reading conflicting data. Some say it's labor intensive, some say it's stone and hardly needs any upkeep? HELP?

 

A. This is a tough question because it depends on what is important to you.
 
Travertine is a good choice for a sink but it will require that you clean it with a neutral cleaner and avoid acidic liquids being spilled on it to avoid etching. I'm assuming it's a honed finish vs a polished finish -- most are, so if it does get etched it can be restored easily, though. Sealing is not necessary. 

 

A travertine sink will also add more value to your home and will have a look and feel that ceramic or porcelain cannot achieve. On the other hand ceramic will require less maintenance but is subject to chipping and will lose its luster after several years of use, whereas travertine can always be restored.
 
If you want a sink that is unique and different and would like to add a touch of class to your master bath I would choose the travertine.
 
Dr. Fred
www.stoneforensics.com
www.stoneandtilepros.com