French Pattern Travertine Pavers: The Complete Guide (Sizes, Coverage, Cost, Installation & Care)

What is French Pattern?

French Pattern (also called Versailles) is a classic layout that combines four tile/paver sizes to create a natural, non-repeating look. It’s visually rich, hides cuts well around edges, and looks exceptional with tumbled travertine.

• Timeless design: suits Mediterranean, coastal and modern outdoor spaces.
• Great for large areas: repeating modules help installers keep pace and reduce layout guesswork.
• Premium feel: fewer visible long grout lines vs. straight layouts.

French Pattern Set Sizes & Coverage

A standard French Pattern set covers 8 sq.ft. and uses a 16″ module. The most common piece mix per set is:

• 1 × 16″ × 24″
• 2 × 16″ × 16″
• 1 × 8″ × 16″
• 2 × 8″ × 8″

This composition totals ~8 sq.ft. when placed with typical joints. Most crates include 22 sets per crate (≈176 sq.ft. per full crate).

Tip: keep modules aligned; don’t “freehand” random gaps—let the pattern do the work.

How Many Sets Do I Need?

Use this simple formula:

1. Measure your area (sq.ft.)
2. Add 10% overage for cuts, waste and attic stock (increase to 12–15% for complex edges).
3. Divide by 8 (because 1 set = 8 sq.ft.) and round up to the next whole set.

Worked Example (Patio = 250 sq.ft.)

250 × 1.10 = 275 sq.ft. → 275 ÷ 8 = 34.38 → round up → 35 sets (≈ 280 sq.ft.).

Cost & Budgeting

French Pattern pricing is usually quoted per sq.ft. or per set. Here’s how to compare apples to apples:

• Per-set to sq.ft.: Set price ÷ 8 = effective $/sq.ft.
• Per-sq.ft. to set: $/sq.ft. × 8 = price per set.
• Include extras: edge restraints, base materials, polymeric sand or grout, sealer, delivery, and installation labor.

Pro tip: If you’re close to a crate break (22 sets), ask for a crate price. Full-crate buys may get better freight and handling.

Installation Guide (Outdoors)

1. Sub-base prep: Excavate and compact a stable base (typically 4–6″ compacted aggregate depending on soil/freeze conditions). Ensure positive drainage away from structures (≈1–2% slope).
2. Bedding layer: For dry-set installs, use 1–1.5″ of screeded concrete sand; for mortar-set, use a suitable thinset/mortar bed over concrete slab.
3. Layout: Snap reference lines and lay by modules. Keep joint widths consistent (≈1/8″–3/16″ for tumbled pavers; follow your installer’s standard).
4. Cutting: Use a wet saw with a stone blade. Dry-fit edges before final placement.
5. Compaction: Dry-set: gently compact with a plate compactor and a protective pad. Mortar-set: tap into bed for full contact—avoid voids.
6. Joints: Dry-set: sweep polymeric sand and activate per manufacturer instructions. Mortar-set: grout with flexible, exterior-rated grout.
7. Sealing: Let the surface dry, then apply a penetrating sealer (see below). Always test a small area first.

Pool Deck & Patio Tips

• Stay cool: Light-colored travertine runs cooler underfoot in sun-exposed decks.
• Slip resistance: Tumbled finish offers excellent grip when wet.
• Coping & edges: Use matching bullnose or drop-edge pieces for pool coping and steps.
• Drainage: Keep water moving—add channel drains where needed; avoid flat spots.
• Movement joints: On slabs, follow TCNA/ANSI movement joint spacing; honor existing control joints.

Sealing & Care

• Sealer type: Use a high-quality penetrating/impregnating sealer designed for natural stone (matte/enhancing per taste).
• Frequency: Re-seal every 1–3 years (UV, foot traffic, and chemicals speed up wear on pool decks).
• Cleaning: pH-neutral stone cleaner; avoid acidic or harsh degreasers.
• Spot care: Remove organic stains promptly; poultice if needed. Rinse after pool chemical shocks.

Need products? See our Stone Care Products.

French Pattern Travertine — FAQ