Travertine is the classic Arizona patio stone, its light colors and porous structure keep it noticeably cooler underfoot than most paving materials, and tumbled finishes give excellent grip around pool decks. We install travertine in running bond and French (Versailles) patterns; a Versailles-pattern Noce travertine patio is one of the signature projects in our exterior tile gallery.
Outdoor-rated porcelain offers near-zero water absorption, fade-proof color through the body or face of the tile, and minimal maintenance, no sealing. For homeowners weighing the two, see our honest travertine vs. porcelain comparison below.
Pool decks demand slip-resistant finishes, correct drainage away from the shell, and materials that tolerate constant water and chemicals. Tumbled travertine and textured porcelain are the proven pair here.
From stoop and entry pavers to full outdoor-kitchen counter and backsplash surfaces in stone and tile, we extend interior design standards to outdoor living, coordinated with our decorative tile and granite work.
Exterior tile is for homeowners whose backyard is a second living room, and in the East Valley, that's most of the year. Patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens take real daily use here, and the material has to be chosen for this climate, not a catalog photo.
Arizona changes the rules. Summer surface temperatures punish dark, dense materials near bare feet and paws, cool-surface choices like travertine are a functional decision, not just an aesthetic one. UV is relentless, so color stability matters. Monsoon storms dump an inch of rain in an hour, so drainage slope and drainage paths are planned before the first tile is set. On slab and paver bases, we plan movement joints so the 40-degree-plus seasonal temperature swings don't telegraph through as cracked grout, and on concrete bases we manage efflorescence risk with proper setting materials and drainage.
We measure and evaluate the actual site (base, slope, sun exposure) before quoting. That's the free in-home estimate, and it's the difference between a patio that lasts decades and one that doesn't.
We assess the base, drainage, sun exposure, and how you use the space.
Travertine and porcelain samples come to your home, you'll see them in your actual light, next to your pool and stucco.
Sound, correctly pitched bases with planned movement joints and drainage paths.
Tile or pavers are set to layout, leveled, grouted or jointed, and sealed where the material calls for it.
We review joints, drainage flow, and sealant work with you.
Sweep or blow dust and debris regularly; rinse with a hose rather than pressure-washing grout joints aggressively. Re-seal natural stone when water stops beading. Keep drains and scuppers clear before monsoon season, and use pH-neutral cleaners, avoid acids on travertine, which etches.
For barefoot areas like pool decks, light-colored tumbled travertine stays coolest and offers natural slip resistance. For low-maintenance and maximum fade resistance, outdoor-rated porcelain is excellent, it absorbs almost no water and needs no sealing. The right answer depends on sun exposure, pool proximity, and how much maintenance you want.
Travertine runs cooler underfoot, has authentic natural variation, and suits Southwestern architecture, but it needs sealing and gentle cleaning. Porcelain is denser, maintenance-free, and extremely fade- and stain-resistant, though dark colors get hot in full sun and it lacks stone's natural variation. Many East Valley homeowners choose travertine around pools and porcelain for high-traffic, full-sun patios. Because we sell and install both, we'll help you compare honestly for your specific yard.
Cost depends on patio size, the base it sits on, pattern complexity, and current stone pricing. Rather than publish numbers that won't match your yard, we measure the site and quote the complete installed project at your free in-home estimate.
Tumbled or honed finishes (the standard for pool decks) provide good traction when wet. Polished finishes are an indoor look and aren't what we'd recommend poolside. Proper drainage design matters as much as the finish.
Often, yes, if the slab is sound, flat enough, and properly sloped for drainage. Cracked, heaved, or poorly pitched concrete needs repair or a new base first, which we assess in person.
A travertine patio or pool surround is how East Valley homes live outdoors, and it's been part of our craft since 1984. Call (480) 926-3444 or contact us to schedule your free in-home estimate, or browse our exterior tile gallery for pattern and material ideas first.
Serving Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe and Queen Creek. Mon-Fri, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM.
