Travertine Tile

Hi all,

I am having some flooring installers quote me on the price to install travertine tile (not honed) and 18 x 18. I keep receiving different information about how the install should be done and would appreciate some feedback.

1.) Does travertine tile need to be sold in batches since there is a natural variation with each tile. The reason I ask is I need to return some of the broken tiles that were delivered from Lowes. When I spoke to the sales person at lowes I asked if they had the same batch at the store. He said it is not necessary with travertine because it is a natural varying stone.

2.) The back of the travertine tile has pits. When the tile is installed, should the installer fill the holes on back of the tile with thinset before laying the tile. One installer told me it is necessary to prevent the tile from breaking and having the filled holes breaking through on the surface.

3.) Does the slab need to be floated level prior to installing the travertine. One installer told me yes, the other installer tole me they will use 1/2 inch thick thinset to apply the tile.

Adam