How to Install Travertine Marble

Draw a horizontal line along the length of the wall from the floor to the height of a tile plus ¼-inch. For example, if the tiles are 12 inches high, the line should be 12-1/4 inches up.

Mark a vertical line through the middle of the wall, from floor to ceiling, that intersects the horizontal line.

Spread thin set tile mortar over the base of the wall with a notched trowel, covering the space between the floor and the horizontal line.

Press a travertine tile into the mortar on one side of the vertical line so the top edge of the tile is under the horizontal line. There should be a ¼-inch space between the bottom of the tile and the floor. Hang the remaining tiles of the bottom row side by side, along the length of the wall, putting spacers between them as you go. Cut the tiles at the ends on a wet saw to fit.

Hang the next courses of tile in the same manner, starting each course at the center and working to the sides. Build up the wall, course by course, covering it completely.

Let the mortar set for 12 hours then pull out the spacers.

Spread a layer of tile sealer over the tiles with a paintbrush. Seal only the flat top surface of the tiles, not the holes or the spaces between the tiles. Let the sealer dry for six hours.

Grout the wall, beginning at the top and spreading it over the entire surface with a grout float. Scrape the edge of the float over the flat parts of the surface to press the grout into the holes and spaces. Wipe up the excess grout with a damp sponge, leaving it in the holes and spaces.

Wait for the grout to set for five to seven days. Brush on another layer of tile sealer, covering the grout as well as the tile.