ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 17, Issue 2

Seamless Integration

From streamlining production and improving efficiency to empowering your employees, discover ways you can optimize your workflow to maximize your business’s potential.

CREDITS

Editor: Sarah Peiper

Contributors:

Marissa Bankert

Scott Greenberg

Tim Saddoris

Ted Sherritt

Roy Viana

Ed Young

Proofreader:

Marsha Jo Scott

Design:

V2 Marketing & Management

Printing and Distribution: LSC Communications

ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photos in this publication may not depict proper safety procedures for creative purposes. ISFA and Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine support the use of proper safety procedures in all cases and urge readers to take steps to institute such procedures.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (ISSN 2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth edition, a Buyers Guide, publishing in October.

Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine are available at the nonmember newsstand price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine is also available by annual subscription (five issues) for $30.00. ISFA members receive a complimentary annual subscription with every membership renewal Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States. To subscribe, call (888) 599-ISFA.

For change of address, please include old label with new information, including both old and new ZIP codes. Allow 3-6 weeks for address change to take effect.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine is proudly printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written consent.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine and the International Surface Fabricators Association assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Opinions expressed by contributors in this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine or the International Surface Fabricators Association, but rather those of the individual writers.

Photography/graphics provided by:

Aitor Estevez

BACA Systems

BB Industries

Bella Casa Kitchen & Bath Breton USA

BVC Group Cambria

CMS Stone Technology Commanduli

Daltile

Eastern Surfaces

Float Frame

GEM Industries Gilasi glass2

Itermac

Lapitec

Laser Products Industries

Mercury Mosaics

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

Park Industries

Porcelanosa

Scott Greenberg

Sinkits

Staron

Terminator

Total Stone Solutions

Vadara Quartz Surfaces

GMM Stone Machinery

The Good Plastic Company

Vicostone

ZOLLER

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

LSC Communications

c/o Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine 3401 Heartland Drive Liberty, MO 64068

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SURFACE FABRICATORS ASSOCIATION

FEATURES

Cover Photo

Daltile’s extensive countertop selection includes every option, from the finest natural stone to enduring ONE Quartz to the company’s award-winning Panoramic Porcelain. Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces feature porcelain that performs and design that delivers. This collection offers breathtaking views, stunning visuals and seamless design with no boundaries. The beauty of natural stone slab with the strength of porcelain, Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces offers a whole new world for countertops. Explore endless possibilities at www.daltile.com.

18 Revolutionizing Fabrication: The Next Generation of Sharp Machinery

When it comes to cutting stone, porcelain, solid surface or quartz, having the right tools can make all the difference in terms of accuracy and productivity. Here are some of the best innovations in heavy machinery and accessories that can keep your shop on the cutting edge.

22 Porcelain Countertops & Slabs: The Style of Natural Stone With the Performance of Porcelain Tile

Porcelain slabs offer a combination of durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for interior design projects. Their durability and longevity make them a cost-effective option while creating visually stunning spaces that stand the test of time.

28 ISFA Fabricator Profile: Eastern Surfaces

With a remarkable legacy spanning more than four decades in the surfacing industry, Eastern Surfaces has left an indelible mark on the hearts of thousands of satisfied customers in and around Allentown, Pennsylvania. Their commitment to excellence shines through each project, elevating spaces and enhancing the lives of those they serve.

34 How to Turn 'Kids These Days' Into Top-Performing Teams

Employee underperformance may not be your fault, but it is your responsibility. Think of management as a form of technology. It needs to be continuously updated so you don’t fall behind.

DEPARTMENTS

Marissa Bankert

50 Perspectives: Ted Sherritt

The Human Element: Nurturing Our Most Valuable Assets

In the fast-paced world of surface fabrication, where machines hum rhythmically and precision is paramount, it’s easy to become entranced by the sheer efficiency and power of technology and machinery — one cornerstone of this issue of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces. Yet, amidst the whir of automated processes, it’s imperative not to overlook the importance of nurturing the human element within our industry. As much as machines drive productivity (page 20), the ingenuity, skill and well-being of our people ultimately determine success.

Humans are the heartbeat of innovation; without them, none of the products or the tools we use would exist in the first place. From designing more efficient production processes to innovating sustainable materials (page 26), it’s human ingenuity that leads to these breakthroughs. And even though there are tools and programs to monitor your machines’ performance, a person ultimately stands at the controls. Therefore, neglecting our workers’ development and wellbeing stifles the innovation engine that propels us forward.

Moreover, in an era where connection, customization and personalization are increasingly sought after by consumers, the adaptability and creativity of our people become indispensable. Machines may excel at repetitive tasks, but they lack the intuition and adaptability that humans possess. Nurturing a workforce that is encouraged to think critically, build relationships, share ideas, adapt to new challenges and innovate is essential for companies to stay competitive in this rapidly evolving market. This issue’s fabricator profile features Eastern Surfaces, an expansive operation in Allentown, Pennsylvania, that employs about 130 alongside an impressive suite of machinery and tech (page 28). Owner Brian Rocca strives to make sure there’s alignment across the organization — from person to machine — and fosters a company culture where employees are valued and respected.

Beyond the realm of productivity and innovation, there exists an ethical imperative to prioritize the well-being of their employees — particularly when it comes to the ever-

growing concerns around the risks associated with respirable crystalline silica content in engineered stone. The ethical considerations of the industry extend beyond the factory floor and into broader societal impacts. Ensuring safe working conditions, fair wages and opportunities for advancement are not only moral imperatives but also crucial for fostering a sustainable and resilient workforce. You can read more about how the International Surface Fabricators Association is working with government agencies to ensure the best interests of our fabricators are top of mind when new policies and regulations are created (page 50).

The well-being of employees is not only a moral imperative but also a business imperative. Research has consistently shown that prioritizing employee well-being leads to greater productivity, lower turnover rates and higher levels of job satisfaction. In production environments, where repetitive tasks, physical labor and long hours are common, addressing employee well-being is particularly crucial.

Moreover, nurturing the human element within manufacturing goes hand in hand with promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. A workforce that reflects the diversity of society brings a range of perspectives and experiences to the table, fostering creativity, empathy and resilience within the industry. This entails providing opportunities for skills development and training, fostering a culture of work-life balance, and prioritizing physical and mental health initiatives. Furthermore, it helps to attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive labor market. On page 34, author Scott Greenberg challenges us to reconsider authoritative leadership tactics.

Rather than viewing humans and machines as competing forces or one replacing the other, it’s critical to embrace the concept of collaboration. While machines excel at repetitive and precise tasks, humans bring creativity, intuition and adaptability to the table. By leveraging the strengths of both, you can unlock new levels of success that cannot be realized with only one or the other.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Solid Surface Fabrication Training

June 4-5

McSherrystown, Penn. www.ISFAnow.org

AIA Conference on Architecture

June 5-8

Washington, D.C. www.conferenceonarchitecture.com

Colorado Stone Summit: Dynamic Intentionality

June 6

Architectural Surfaces Denver www.naturalstoneinstitute.com

NEOCON

June 10-12 Chicago www.neocon.com

ISFA Fabricator Forum

June 12-13

Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing Editor Sarah Peiper, Sarah@ISFAnow.org.

Sacramento, Calif. www.ISFAnow.org

ZOLLER Open House and Technology Days

June 12-13

Ann Arbor, Mich. solutions.zoller.info/en/openhouse-2024/home

Digital Stoneworking Expo by Park Industries

June 26-27

Washington D.C. www.parkindustries.com/dse

Wisconsin Stone Summit: Know Your Business

July 11

UGM Surfaces Oak Creek, Wis. www.naturalstoneinstitute.com

All Slab Fabbers Workshop July 24-26

Pasco, Wash. www.allslabfabbers.com

Solid Surface Fabrication Training

August 6-7

San Antonio, Texas www.ISFAnow.org

International Woodworking Fair August 6-9

Atlanta www.iwfatlanta.com

International Manufacturing Technology Show September 9-14

Chicago www.imts.com

ISFA Fabricator Forum

September 11-12

St. Louis www.ISFAnow.org

ISFA MemberConnect Meeting

September 19 Virtual www.ISFAnow.org

Ohio Stone Summit: Dynamic Intentionality

September 19

MSI Surfaces Columbus, Ohio www.naturalstoneinstitute.com

Cersaie

September 23-27

Bologna, Italy www.cersaie.it

Marmomac

September 24-27

Verona, Italy www.marmomac.com

POLYCON 2024

October 7-9

Springfield, Mass. www.theicpa.com

All Eyes on Engineered Stone: Ban in Australia Gets Transitional Period, California Continues To Seek Worker Protection

Work Health and Safety (WHS) ministers met in March to iterate the engineered stone ban that goes into effect July 1, which prohibits the supply, installation or processing of engineered stone slabs, panels and countertops. Most notably, the amendment includes a transitional period extending through December 31, 2024, which means that preexisting contracts for engineered stone will be honored during that time.

Builders and engineered stone suppliers say their industries need more guidance and support. Confusion and a lack of detail from the government about the impending ban crippled many businesses, unsure how to move forward with their suppliers and customers. Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said the industry needed clarity as soon as possible.

Under the transition period, fabrication of engineered stone from July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024, will be exempt, provided the work falls under a contract entered into on or before December 31, 2023.

Fabrication methods remain under strict scrutiny, and the group noted: “Activities undertaken during this period must be appropriately controlled and will be subject to stronger regulations for high-risk processes.”

“The six-month transition will help reduce the impact on industry,” said Industrial Relations Minister Simone McGurk. “However, given mounting scientific evidence, there was no question we had to act and act quickly.”

Additional amendments were made to clarify several issues, including a note that says that finished products made of engineered stone that “do not require processing or modification, and pose minimal risk to the health and safety of workers, are not prohibited” and clarified that “porcelain products and sintered stone … that do not contain resin” are excluded from the ban. WHS will do further studies to

understand the risks associated with those materials.

Safe Work Australia will continue to “review the health risks to workers associated with processing slabs, panels and benchtops made from alternative materials, which may contain or be free from crystalline silica.” That review should be completed by the end of July 2025.

Meanwhile, in the United States, California continues to push to make its Emergency Temporary Standard for silica permanent. In April, Los Angeles City Council members introduced a legislative package to address the rise of silicosis among fabricators.

“The alarming rise of severe silicosis-related illness and deaths among stone countertop workers in the San Fernando Valley prompted me to act quickly,” council member Imelda Padilla said in a statement.

Los Angeles County Olive View-UCLA Medical Center reported a “significant” increase in workers presenting silicosis symptoms over the past 18 months. The San Fernando Valley has been identified as a “focal point for many of these health cases as numerous stone-cutting and fabrication businesses are established in the area,” according to city officials.

Last year, researchers from UCLA and UC San Francisco reported that 52 artificial stone workers were diagnosed with silicosis in California. Of those 52 cases, 51 were Latino immigrants. Most were diagnosed between 2019 and 2022; 20 patients had advanced silicosis at diagnosis, and 10 died. Their median age was 45, with an average work history of 15 years.

The legislative package includes two motions to combat silicosis by implementing stricter regulations and enhancing outreach to these workers. It seeks to prohibit dry methods in stone fabrication activities, develop training programs, establish licensing processes for fabrication shops and ensure higher wages for those workers, who are often low-income, immigrant workers.

Total Stone Solutions Unveils Cutting-Edge Machinery for Surface Fabrication Industry

Total Stone Solutions marked its inaugural presence at TISE 2024 with a showcase of revolutionary products set to redefine surface fabrication. Total Stone Solutions is spearheaded by industry veteran Nick Wadenstorer, who has two decades of expertise, including leadership roles at Marmo Meccanica and BACA Systems.

Visitors at TISE witnessed firsthand the unveiling of Helios Automation CNC machines, Mettreel workstation cranes, advanced water systems, and state-of-the-art polishing systems. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Total Stone Solutions aims to empower stone fabricators with cutting-edge technologies, optimizing efficiency and a focus on minimizing labor costs.

If you didn’t get a chance to see Total Stone Solutions at TISE, contact them for live demonstrations and exclusive insights into the next generation of industry-leading solutions. Learn more at www.total-stone.com.

Do You Have Unused Production Capacity?

By Ed Young, Fabricator’s Business Coach

Fab shops are in either one of two conditions.

Sales are very strong; lead times are getting longer; the shop can’t keep up with all the orders coming in.

There are not enough orders to completely fill the shop. If sales volume increased, the shop could easily produce those orders and lead times would remain short.

The latter is where we’ll focus — not enough orders to fill the shop. If you have production capacity that isn’t being used, then you aren’t making all the money you should. You have invested a lot of money in a building, machinery and people and you aren’t realizing your potential. The return on your investment is lower than it should be.

Some shop owners like having excess capacity in their shops. I hear those owners say they would rather have a sales problem than a production problem. They think having this excess capacity allows them to respond quickly to a customer request and to do so without much stress. After all, they aren’t currently using all their people and equipment, so they think there is little impact from dropping a last-minute order into the schedule.

If a shop owner thinks they have available capacity, then there is less urgency to replace an employee who leaves. After all, we have more people than we need, right? The same is true for a machine that is down or a hand tool that breaks. There is little urgency to address those issues.

This lack of urgency creates complacency. It removes the drive to improve performance. The result is a shop that thinks it has 20% available capacity really has 40% to 50% available capacity. Can you afford to only use half of your investment? If you see your business as a vehicle to get you where you want to go in life, using only half your investment means it will take you much longer to reach your exit strategy goal.

Whether you currently have unused production capacity or you foresee having it in the near future (due to economic cycles), you need a plan to increase sales. If you need to immediately increase sales, running a promotion is the easiest solution. One of the most effective ways to have a promotion generate quick

sales is to use a comprehensive social media campaign.

For this to work, you need to make sure the social media look and feel matches that of your website. You need to set a budget for how much you plan to spend on Facebook ads and Google ads. Your website SEO needs to be optimized and it needs to have certain critical content.

Remember to include video. I continue to be amazed at the stories I hear about companies using TikTok to showcase products. Photos are great, but people love seeing your process in action.

However, if you are one of those companies that runs a different promotion every month, then you may be creating a big problem for yourself. When you constantly run promotions, you are simply offering product-at-a-price. You are stuck playing the me-too price game — a game that is very difficult to win. There is always a larger competitor who can use its economies of scale to beat your price, or there are a dozen smaller competitors with less overhead that can also beat your price. If you are playing the low-price game, your business is likely struggling.

So how do you stop playing the price game and still keep your plant full of work?

When everyone offers pretty much the same products, it may seem that the only thing left to leverage is price. Some shop owners will thump their chests and proclaim, “We work hard to build a relationship with our customers.” Those relationships are great — until the next person comes along, puts in the time to build that same relationship, and then sweetens the deal with a new product line or a slightly better price. Strong customer relationships are essential, but they are not a guarantee of future business.

The best way to build a competitive edge in your market is to have a sound marketing strategy — one that is built not on products or price or having the latest equipment but is based on how well you understand your customers’ problems, and how well you help them solve those problems.

A strong market identity and marketing message shows

customers why they should buy from you at your price, instead of buying from your competitor at a lower price. This message focuses on the customer, the problems the customer has, and how you can help the customer solve those problems.

Too many companies make the mistake of playing the role of hero to their customers. A more effective approach is making the customer the hero in their story and showing how you help them overcome their problems. This builds a stronger relationship with the customer and clearly shows how you can help them. This approach builds clear credibility for the fabricator.

A sound marketing strategy is essential for throttling sales demand to keep your shop full, but not overloaded. The economy ebbs and flows. Competitors come and go. Styles constantly change and the hottest colors this year are the duds next year. The ability to throttle sales demand allows you to fill up your shop when it has unused capacity, or to keep your shop from becoming overloaded when demand is high. Throttling sales demand against available production capacity allows you to be in control of your business. This level of control is a big part of you running your business instead of it running you.

Ed Young is the owner of Fabricator’s Business Coach, a consulting firm designed to strengthen and elevate fabrication shops of all sizes. A former shop manager, Ed fully understands the challenges of today’s professionals. He has consulted with a range of businesses, from one-person startups to international Fortune 100 corporations, covering a broad array of products and processes. As a result, Ed knows that each business needs an appropriate structure for its unique situation. To learn more about how Fabricator’s Business Coach can take your shop to the next level, visit www.fabricatorscoach.com or reach Ed directly at Ed@fabricatorscoach.com.

Troubleshooting Made Easy: 4 Steps To Improve Production Efficiency

By Tim Saddoris, Grand Onyx

Have you ever felt like everything is going wrong and you’re unsure where to start? When your production isn’t running at full speed, or your machinery keeps breaking down, it can be frustrating — and expensive. Guess what? You’re not alone. Many of the world’s top manufacturers struggle with these same issues. Been there. Done that.

Before I decided to focus exclusively on surface fabricators, I built a software company that focused on troubleshooting and improving production and machinery efficiency. Here are four steps I learned along the way that can help to diagnose problems and maintain consistent, high-quality production.

Step 1: Establish Your Baseline

Understanding your current performance is crucial to know what’s normal. So, when things aren’t going just right, you can gauge the impact. You want to set a baseline before problems occur. While you will want to measure a variety of metrics, here are two key ones you must know:

• What’s your square feet produced per day?

• When were the machines NOT running but supposed to be?

This also helps when you are making changes to your production runs. By comparing the baseline against any changes you make, you can quickly see how it impacts your output and downtime.

Step 2: Set Shop Floor Standards

With your baseline data in hand, you can define what peak performance should look like. What’s your A+ Grade that you want to hit every day?

For example, how many square feet should you be able to produce per day when you’re working optimally? There are several ways to compute your daily production goal. Here are two I use:

• Track how many square feet you produce daily over several weeks. Take your best day and use that to create your daily target.

• If you are using an automated machine, check with your manufacturer. They should be able to tell you how many square feet you can produce each day.

Step 3: Implement Daily Tracking

Now, track your daily activity. Keep a close eye on these two numbers and compare them to your baseline and your standards:

• The square footage produced each day.

• Any instance when automated machines are not operational.

This continuous tracking makes it easier to see when there’s even a slight deviation that can impact operations and signal problems. It gives you a chance to dig in and look for the root causes that are causing performance to lag.

Step 4: Analyze and Adjust

Have your shop floor manager review those records and note anything that caused performance to dip — especially on your worst days. Eventually, a trend will start to emerge.

Here’s a cheat code: If you are using a system like Moraware, StoneApp or Stone Profit, they will automatically track the square feet produced every day. Suppose you use one of the automated machines from Park Industries, BACA

Systems or Poseidon to cut your slabs. In that case, these machines typically have a way you can download data to understand how many minutes it wasn’t running and how many square feet you produced.

William of Ockham Had It Right

Are you familiar with Occam’s razor? It dates back to the 14th century, but it’s amazing how relevant it is today. William of Ockham said that the simplest explanation is often the right one. We can get caught up looking for patterns and problems that don’t exist and ignore the easy fixes right in front of us. It’s like that saying: When you hear hoofbeats, think horses and not zebras.

When you’re troubleshooting, note the reason for any downtime using standard codes and make sure each code is actionable. For example, your code shouldn’t be “machine stopped running” without noting the reason. Think more like “machine stopped running — the light curtain was tripped.” This gives you a tangible thing to investigate. It also helps you see which items are isolated incidents and when trends emerge. If this problem starts to repeat regularly and causes your performance to suffer, you may justify a new process or an upgrade to the light curtain technology.

One thing to keep in mind here: If you have 100 reason codes, the top three almost always account for about 80% of the issues. You’ve got to prioritize your work, and focusing on the top three will solve most of your biggest problems.

When You Get It Right

When you get it right, you can see significant benefits. The biggest one is improved margins.

Downtime means decreased output, but you’re still paying for people waiting for machines to get back up and running. That only increases your total costs. The more you can keep your equipment running at peak performance, the lower your cost of goods and the more profit you make. By being proactive, you can also reduce the cost of maintenance, repairs and waste — creating a more significant return on investment.

All of this gives you a competitive advantage. Improved throughput means you can do installs faster, serve more customers and, yes, make more money.

Make Continuous Improvement Part of Your Culture

Once you’ve isolated recurring problems and addressed them, the data you’ve gathered helps you create a culture of continuous improvement. After all, every improvement you make in your output and efficiency lowers your cost of production.

You can test changes or upgrades and track the impact against your baseline and best days.

There are all sorts of methodologies for creating this culture of continuous improvement, such as Kaizen, Lean, and Six Sigma. But I like simple explanations that you can put in place easily. Here’s one from the American Society of Quality that’s easy for everyone to understand:

• Plan: Identify an opportunity and plan for a change.

• Do: Implement the change on a small scale.

• Check: Analyze the results of the change and determine whether it made a difference.

• Act: If the change was successful, implement it on a broader scale.

Plan. Do. Check. Act. It’s a simple but powerful checklist. I’d add one more: rinse and repeat. Don’t rest on yesterday’s success. You should always look for ways to improve your production cycle to optimize your efficiency and profitability.

Tim Saddoris is the president of Grand Onyx. a firm dedicated to helping stone fabricators increase their revenue by 30% to 300% using proven techniques and a World Class Blueprint System to help you build a more profitable, scalable business. They help companies refine their sales process, uncover insights about better ways to sell, and coach sales teams for greater success. Learn how Grand Onyx can help your business grow at www.grandonyx.pro. Plan. Do. Check. Act. It’s a simple but powerful checklist.

Revolutionizing Fabrication: The Next Generation of Sharp Machinery

By Sarah Peiper

When it comes to cutting stone, porcelain, solid surface or quartz, having the right tools can make all the difference in terms of accuracy and productivity. Faster cutting rates, reduced downtime and improved accuracy all contribute to smoother workflows while reducing remakes. Here are some of the best innovations in heavy machinery and accessories that can keep your shop on the cutting edge.

CMS Stone Technology: Brembana kartesia

Under the brand name Brembana Macchine, CMS Stone Technology was the first manufacturer of a stone machining center, which is accredited to Founder Pietro Aceti. Brembana kartesia is an advanced CNC with 3/4 interpolated axes for fabricating stone. It can perform contouring, drilling, milling, engraving and polishing with high precision and execution speed. It is equipped with a patented suction cup system with automatic positioning (AUTOMAX) and dedicated software to automatically position the suction cups in relation to the workpiece.

It is a particularly productive solution: It can eliminate the downtime typically associated with manually handling the suction cups while maximizing spindle fabrication time. Brembana kartesia can also independently manage scrap removal without stopping the machine. With the assistance of anthropomorphic robots, Brembana kartesia can be added to a fully automated countertop production line with minimal human intervention. See all the specifications at www.scmgroup.com/en_US/cmsstone.

Breton’s Evonix

ADW iKon Dekton Bridge Saw Blades from BB Industries

The ADW iKon blade is made specifically for Dekton, Neolith, Laminam and other ultra-compact surfaces. This blade is certified and ready to cut fast and provides extended life with a 10 mm segment and a silent core. ADW, a leader in the UCS market, is available from BB Industries. It is available in 14-, 16- and 18-inch sizes and is designed for wet use only. The 16-inch blade runs at 2000 rpm with a speed of 3 to 5 feet per minute. The 18-inch blade runs at 1800 rpm and cuts 2 to 4 feet per minute. For miters, operators should reduce rpm speeds by 30% for optimal performance. Learn more about this and other blades from BBI at www.bbindustriesllc.com.

Evonix is a multi-cutting machine of the latest generation with rotary bridge and ultralight alloy spindles. A revolutionary solution down to the last detail, unlike the other solutions on the market, Evonix stands out for its evolved design, compact dimensions and exclusive technologies. The rotary system makes it possible to locate the spindles at any point of the bridge, allowing the machine to make right-angle, oblique, vertical and horizontal cuts. Evonix can square a slab in just two steps. Also, the use of linear motors and torque motors guarantees rapid spindle travel and a series of valuable benefits in terms of efficiency, sustainability and safety. The Matik version is equipped with special vacuum cups on the spindle front.

Breton recently partnered with Distinctive Kitchen in Columbus, Ohio, to open a showroom, allowing fabricators to see their machines operate in real time. All Breton machinery comes with a guarantee of service, including a 24-hour hotline. For more information, visit www.bretonusa.com.

Robo SawJet M-Series by BACA Systems

BACA Systems added the Robo SawJet M-Series to its lineup, an all-inclusive mitering sawjet packaged on the industryproven, reliable and maintenance-free Kuka Robot. With 650+ systems in production and countless success stories, the Robo SawJet M-Series is the right choice for all cutting processes. The M-Series introduces the allimportant mitering process to the Robo SawJet product line. It features 0-50 degree dynamic miter angle control for both the saw and waterjet process. Also included is a new revolutionary technology to maintain accurate parts. All of BACA’s robot systems allow for the customization of the machine layout. This allows for traditional front load, side load, or pass-through cell configurations. BACA provides the only system that can be converted from a single tank to a dual tank with minimal expense. Learn more at www.bacasystems.com.

The JAVELIN by Park Industries

Park Industries changed the sawjet game by introducing the JAVELIN CNC Sawjet. Power up your production with its 27-horsepower VFD-controlled arbor motor and versatile 5-axis waterjet capabilities. The JAVELIN is optimized to cut any material with ease, including porcelain, quartzite, Dekton and more.

While the JAVELIN excels at high-production fabrication, it’s also the perfect solution for precise mitering with the ultimate combination of blade and waterjet mitering. Its Miterjet efficiently miters inside corners or arcs in one sweep with its 0-58 degree waterjet capabilities.

The JAVELIN’s unique design offers the industry’s smallest two-table footprint, threesided table access, and the most complete table coverage. It is highly configurable to meet the needs of any shop layout and is available in single or two-table models. Its AccuCut System features a reinforced bridge, precision rotary index system, helical rack and pinion technology, and more — all working to deliver exceptional, long-lasting performance and precision. Have it all with the JAVELIN, the only sawjet that hits every target. Learn more at www.parkindustries.com/cnc-sawjets/javelin/.

Veloce Blade by Lapitec

The Veloce blade was engineered specifically to cut Lapitec sintered stone. It uses diamond technology and industry-specific knowledge to decrease cutting times by up to 75% based on slab thickness. Lapitec is the pioneer of sintered stone, formed without resins or crystalline silica, making it a sustainable and healthy choice for any surfacing application. Unmatched in the industry, the Veloce blade takes Lapitec to the next level by increasing stone fabricators’ throughput and efficiency with up to 4 times faster cutting. The Veloce blade is offered in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes and fits most standard stone fabrication saws. For more information about Lapitec or the Veloce blade, visit www.lapitec.com.

Intermac’s Smart 625 CNC Bridge Saw

Smart 625 is a 5-axis CNC bridge saw for cutting and shaping marble, granite, engineered stone and ceramic materials automatically or manually. Compact, multipurpose and easy to use, the sturdy monoblock frame provides for simple installation. The reclining worktop facilitates slab loading and the suction cup manipulator enables automatic handling during the fabrication process. The 5-axis interpolated cutting disk diameter ranges from 350 to 625 mm, and a sheet thickness detector is integrated. Automatic presetting of the disc and tool is positioned directly inside the machine without reducing valuable workspace. The ergonomic command station is on a suspended arm anchored to the structure with a joystick for manual axis movements. The handheld unit allows the operator to manage the machine with maximum comfort and safety away from the control panel when necessary, with remote controls and an emergency button. Visit www.intermac.com/en/stone/smart-625 to learn more.

The ZOLLER »smile 420« Presetting and Measuring Machine

Distributed exclusively in the United States by GranQuartz, the ZOLLER »smile 420« presetting and measuring machine allows stone fabrication shops to quickly and precisely preset tools outside of a CNC machine. The presetter calibrates offline to reduce setup times, increase machine productivity, extend tool life and save money. The machine’s SK 50 high-precision spindle means almost any toolreceiving system can be inserted without conversion measures. The »smile 420« gains enhanced data gathering capabilities when used with the ZOLLER »flash« Tool Management System. This software tracks tool usage and location and notifies users when it’s time to dress or EDM tools. As more data is collected, users can forecast future tool consumption, estimate when new tools are needed, determine tool consumption by user and machine and more. This hardware and software combo saves users an average of $25,000 annually per machine. To learn more about the »smile 420« and schedule a demo, visit www.granquartz.com.

Scan this code to learn about a tool management software solution by GranQuartz and ZOLLER

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GMM Stone Machinery: AXIA 38 TS3

GMM Stone Machinery makes heavy-duty equipment with cast iron structures and rotating table units. Their line of bridge saws includes accurate, reliable machines for large production of basic slab cutting.

The RADIA 38 TS3 is a large machine ideal for small, medium and large companies for cutting stone, marble and granite — both in manual and automatic cycles. This machine also performs complex profiles and shapes on a large cutting surface.

With maximum blade sizes ranging between 1050 mm to 1200 mm, the standard machine is supplied with:

• Motorized tilting and programmable head for marble and granite.

• Optical template scanner.

• Manual rotating table (optional: programmable automatic table).

• Electronic variable speed on the disc motor.

• POLIAX software for control.

• 12-inch touchscreen color display with LAN connection and USB port.

• Folding door solid panel safety barriers.

GMM invented, patented, expanded and evolved to be a leader in 3-5 axis bridge saws, edge polishers and waterjets. Since its inception, the GMM group has delivered over 9000 machines to customers in more than 80 countries. Learn more at www.gmm.it/en.

Commanduli Omega Pencil Multi-Edge Polisher

Omega Pencil is renowned for its high productivity and performance on every kind of marble, granite, engineered stone and ceramic. Its complete equipment allows it to perform all the finishing operations on the materials used in the countertop industry. The Omega Pencil’s cutting-edge design combines diamond abrasives and polishing pads on a conveyor belt, setting a new standard in efficiency for crafting rectangular countertop parts.

Its versatility and precision enable it to create a wide range of edge profiles, from simple bevels to intricate bullnose edges, catering to diverse customer preferences and design requirements. This capability enhances productivity and offers a significant competitive advantage in the market, as it eliminates the need for multiple machines and provides a onestop solution for edge polishing.

Omega Pencil is equipped with a calibrator that uses a diamond tool to mill the B-side of parts to the desired thickness. Milling the B-side of the stone ensures that countertops sit flush on the cabinets, minimizing the need to use shims during installation. It comes standard with an edge rectifier to grind back saw or waterjet blends on the edge or reduce the glue line on a laminated or stacked piece. The vertical spindle allows for smoothness on the underside of parts. This function is commonly used to make the underside of overhangs smooth to the touch.

In 2024, BACA Systems announced an exclusive partnership, acting as the sales agent for Comandulli products in the United States. Learn more at www.bacasystems.com.

Terminator Bridge Saw Blades for Ultra-Compact & Porcelain Materials

For more than 25 years, Terminator has continued to innovate to provide efficient products for its customers. The Nanocut.DK3 blade has newly developed segment technology that provides faster cutting than ever before. A 13 mm segment height offers unrivaled longevity, and a reinforced core for added stability yields fast, reliable results on ultra-compact and porcelain materials. Savings can be realized by not purchasing multiple blades and reducing blade change-out times. Blades are available in sizes ranging from 12 to 18 inches. For more information, visit www.terminatordia.com.

Porcelain Countertops & Slabs: The Style of Natural Stone With the Performance of Porcelain Tile

By Roy Viana, Director of Natural Stone & Slab for Daltile

Porcelain slabs can be used on a multitude of surfaces, including countertops, floors, walls, fireplaces, vanities, backsplashes, shower walls, tub surrounds and even exterior cladding. They bring the stunning on-trend colors and patterns of marble, slate and other natural stones, as well as modern concrete looks to a space while still standing up to real-life activity. Because these slabs are made of authentic porcelain, they are heat-, stain-, scratch- and chemicalresistant, as well as durable and easy to maintain. The longevity of a porcelain countertop ranges from a decade to a lifetime, contingent upon the level of wear and tear it endures.

Perfect for Today’s Germ-Aware World

Porcelain slabs are resistant to the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew and are easy to clean. Basic cleaning with warm water and mild soap is sufficient, but professional cleaning services will not damage porcelain.

Luxury at an Attainable Price

Porcelain slabs are a great solution for designs that require a high-end look but are limited by budget or performance constraints. These panels easily bring the scale and style of natural stone slabs to projects where natural stone might be constrained by cost or installation limitations. Thanks to modern technology, the industry’s best manufacturers can create designs that are so realistic it is hard to tell the difference between porcelain slabs and the natural materials they are emulating.

Easy To Install

The thin nature of porcelain slabs makes them easy to install. A porcelain countertop is light to carry, lift, and

put into place during installation. In addition, porcelain countertops can be installed right over an existing countertop; no demolition is needed.

Powerful Design Impact

Creating style and luxury through seamless, continuous surfaces is currently one of the hottest trends in interior design. Extra-large porcelain slabs make it easy to achieve this goal while adding powerful design impact, whether via a single installation, through the wraparound luxury of a floorto-wall-to-countertop continuum, or even book-matched for a stunning feature wall.

Kitchen Islands: The Hub of the Home

Porcelain slabs create beautiful kitchen islands with minimal or no seams, and a porcelain slab island nicely stands up to the wear and tear of busy family life and entertaining.

Spa-like Bathroom Oasis

Bathrooms are being reinvented to create luxury spaces where adults can escape the everyday chaos in today’s stressful, fast-paced world. This is a trend in new home construction and home renovations. Porcelain slabs uniquely provide seamless design and the ability to easily create the kind of wraparound luxury people want, from floors to walls to countertops.

The Super Shower

Super Showers are high-end, luxurious showers featuring an array of amenities, including rain showers, digital water temperature you can control from your smartphone, multiple showerheads and even steam options. These large, luxurious

spaces are becoming a must-have for many homeowners. Again, porcelain slabs offer a seamless design that flows across several surfaces (floors to walls to countertops), creating luxury and elegance within the space.

Commercial Applications

Extra-large porcelain slabs are well-suited for commercial spaces, too; they’re ideal for many interior and exterior applications. With Daltile’s innovative tile-over-tile installation solution, this process streamlines and significantly reduces both time and expenses, granting a distinct benefit to commercial projects. Resilient against the rigors of heavy foot traffic, these slabs remain steadfast year after year, retaining their pristine appearance without succumbing to fading or breakage.

Further solidifying Daltile’s place at the top of the commercial leaderboard, porcelain slabs require so little maintenance that simple warm water and soap are enough to keep every surface glistening. Commercial spaces tend to comprise higher square footage; with larger areas to clean, the low maintenance feature of extra-large porcelain slabs is an unbeatable advantage.

Porcelain slabs offer a combination of durability, versatility and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for interior design projects. Their durability and longevity make them a cost-effective option while creating visually stunning spaces that stand the test of time.

Daltile’s nationwide network includes high-end showroom and warehouse locations that stock and display a comprehensive range of natural granite, marble, and quartzite slabs, as well as Daltile’s One Quartz and Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces. Daltile’s award-winning Panoramic Porcelain line features extra-large 127-inch by 64-inch slabs that offer extraordinary design, affordability and durability. To view all the stunning designs and learn more, visit www.daltile.com.

The Good Plastic Company: A Champion of Sustainability & the Circular Economy

By Sarah Peiper

The Good Plastic Company, a leading international manufacturer of sustainable surface materials, recently announced its expansion into North America. Founded by Dr. William Chizhovsky in 2018 to address the scourge of plastic waste, the company is committed to helping its partners make a tangible commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. The company’s flagship product, Polygood, comprises a range of 100% recycled and recyclable plastic panels made from post-consumer and post-industrial waste. The brand has completed over 750 international projects showcasing solutions for furniture, surfacing and design elements and now looks to continue the momentum as it enters the North American market.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces recently sat down with Dr. William Chizhovsky to learn more about

how The Good Plastic Company aims to make a sustainable impact on the surfacing industry.

C&AS: What is Polygood?

Chizhovsky: Polygood panels are stylish, durable, lightweight, waterproof and extremely versatile — a sustainable plastic material designed with specifiers, designers, architects and the circular economy in mind. Each panel is composed of a single type of recycled plastic, ensuring simple recycling and robust, long-lasting quality. We choose to work with polystyrene plastic, a durable material that minimizes resource usage in recycling and manufacturing processes, aligning with eco-friendly principles.

We take pride in being the sole manufacturer of a recycled plastic material that holds both Cradle to Cradle certification and an Environmental Product Declaration, demonstrating our commitment to quantifying the environmental impact of our products. Our VOC certification has an A+ rating.

C&AS: What are the material specifications?

Chizhovsky: We offer the largest panels crafted from recycled materials currently accessible, available in

dimensions of 2800 mm by 1400 mm and thicknesses of 12 mm and 19 mm, with custom sizes also available. Our collection includes over 100 colors and customizable finishes, empowering designers to imbue their creations with personality and charm. Additionally, we cater to bespoke design requests, particularly within the commercial/retail sector, ensuring tailored solutions for every client.

C&AS: Can you tell us a little about the production process? Where do you source the plastic waste?

Chizhovsky: We operate within expansive recycling plants across Europe, where our two manufacturing facilities are located. Our suppliers are in the Netherlands, Germany, Poland and other countries.

Our distinctiveness stems from our ability to produce Polygood using post-consumer and post-industrial plastic waste. Managing post-consumer waste poses challenges due to its diverse nature; sorting through various types of refuse can be complex.

Over two years, we’ve developed technology that allows us to process different types of plastic effectively. We receive plastic in its raw form, which has already been sorted by type and thoroughly cleaned. Subsequently, we

SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

subject it to controlled pressure and temperature to melt and mold it into panels. We refrain from adding any external components to the sheets, ensuring they consist solely of 100% recycled plastic, thereby maintaining the highest quality standards.

C&AS: How is the material fabricated? What tools are required to cut or shape it? Can it be thermoformed?

Chizhovsky: Polygood is quite easy to work with. It’s most closely related to the solid surface category. The material can be cut using standard CNC machines and hand tools; it can be glued, drilled, sanded and polished to achieve various finishes such as gloss, matte and so on. Additionally, Polygood can be thermoformed to create various beautiful design objects — a completely standard process with this material.

We provide a workability guide, and our technical team conducts workshops to make it easier for clients to understand, although difficulties rarely arise.

C&AS: How does this material compete in terms of performance with other materials like solid surface, which is already widely popular and often contains recycled elements like stone or glass?

Chizhovsky: Standard applications using Polygood include interior design, furniture, wall cladding, flooring, installation booths and even outdoor facades. We offer various coatings for our panels, including anti-scratch, fireresistant and UV-resistant options.

The material’s competitive edge lies in our production of panels crafted from recycled plastic. This not only reduces CO2 emissions but also minimizes resource consumption compared to the production of virgin materials. However, materials containing partially recycled plastic often rely on recycling their own production waste, which fails to address the broader issue of plastic waste.

In our case, we exclusively use 100% recycled plastic, a fact verified by certificates. Our business model revolves around large-scale production.

C&AS: Where is the material made, and how is it distributed?

Chizhovsky: Presently, we operate two plants in Europe and are poised to inaugurate a third in America next year, which is slated to be our largest facility yet. Our reach extends globally, encompassing projects in the Middle East, Japan, Europe, Africa and Asia. With over 1000 projects underway, we’ve established local distributors with on-site warehouses. Additionally, stock became available in April in the United States with distribution out of North Carolina. Orders are fulfilled swiftly, typically within two to eight weeks.

C&AS: What are your go-to-market plans for North America?

Chizhovsky: North America represents a colossal market, and we’re witnessing a significant demand for sustainable materials, offering us unparalleled growth opportunities.

We’ve already established a team with an office in New York, and now we’re actively seeking partners and exploring stock opportunities. Our next step

involves the construction of a manufacturing plant, alongside acquiring the necessary equipment. Additionally, we’ve initiated the search for local raw material suppliers.

However, the most crucial aspect is demand. We need designers, architects and fabricators who will champion sustainable practices within the industry. They’ll take the lead, while we’ll also emphasize the importance of using our materials. It’s a symbiotic relationship where they take the first step, and we amplify the message about the significance of our material usage.

C&AS: What are your plans to scale, increase production, broaden applications, and improve the product further?

Chizhovsky: With the addition of our third manufacturing facility in North America, our production capacity will see a minimum threefold increase. We can manufacture as much as necessary, as we produce our own equipment. Moreover, there is a plentiful supply of plastic waste available.

However, the pivotal factor lies in the demand for our

product, compelling individuals to transition from traditional, unsustainable materials to more environmentally friendly alternatives. This shift not only drives our growth but also fosters a more sustainable future.

To learn more about The Good Plastic Company and see all the available Polygood panel designs, visit www.thegoodplasticcompany.com. C C C C A A A A B B B B 2 2 2 D

ISFA Fabricator Profile: Eastern Surfaces

By Sarah Peiper

With a remarkable legacy spanning more than four decades in the surfacing industry, Eastern Surfaces has left an indelible mark on the hearts of thousands of satisfied customers in and around Allentown, Pennsylvania. Eastern Surfaces believes that every countertop they create is a work of art that deserves attention to detail and precision. Their commitment to excellence shines through each project, elevating spaces and enhancing the lives of those they serve. Their dedication to their craft extends beyond aesthetics; a commitment to quality, reliability and a customer-centric approach has earned them the admiration of their clientele.

Getting Started: From Tile to Slab

Brian Rocca grew up in the surfacing industry. It was when his family’s tile business started getting requests for countertops that opportunity knocked. “We knew nothing about it,” recalled Brian. “We outsourced to other fabrication companies to complete those jobs. When I saw that the demand was growing, I recognized pretty quickly this was a viable business.” Brian did some research, purchased some equipment, and launched Eastern Granite and Marble in 1998.

Despite the growing popularity of granite, solid surface was still the predominant material for countertops, so Brian partnered with another fabricator who specialized in that material. By 2007, it made sense to merge the businesses, and that’s how Eastern Surfaces came to be. “The solid surface fabricator had contracts with Home Depot, and I had contracts with Lowe’s,” added Brian. “He has since retired, but together we had a good foothold on the home center market.”

In addition, what Brian captured from his family’s tile business was an aim to build great relationships within the kitchen and bath, builder and commercial segments. “I had a

Eastern Surfaces has a staff of about 130 across all departments, and they fabricate stone, marble, quartz, ultra-compact, porcelain and solid surface.

deep understanding of how to thrive in those markets by providing superior products and services. It was a terrific foundation that we still build upon today.”

In 2008, Brian acquired the office and manufacturing facility they’re operating from today. Since then, Eastern Surfaces has grown to include a second location in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, that serves as a sales and slab viewing location.

In the Shop

Today, Eastern Surfaces has a staff of about 130 across all departments, and they fabricate stone, marble, quartz, ultracompact, porcelain and solid surface. The team is completing an average of 40 jobs per day, primarily kitchens. The company has a shop for solid surface and a separate stone shop. They’re running an impressive suite of machinery, including a Fusion CNC sawjet and two Fastback edge polishers from Park Industries, two Robo sawjets from BACA Systems, a Comandulli Omega line polisher, three Intermac CNCs, a GMM bridge saw and a Turrini water treatment system, to name a few.

“We still do a fair amount of hand fabrication,” said Brian. “So we will continue to invest in equipment to help us streamline. We have a lot of seasoned, experienced fabricators who do outstanding custom work. But at some point, those folks will be looking to retire. Specialized equipment and machinery are more important than ever.”

In 2008, Brian acquired the office and manufacturing facility they’re operating from today. Since then, Eastern Surfaces has grown to include a second location in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, that serves as a sales and slab viewing location.

Brian says he is always looking for opportunities to improve efficiencies and provide more value to his customers. “When it comes to porcelain and ultra-compact materials, we try to nest those jobs together to optimize machine time. These materials are more time-consuming; they require different blades, speeds are different — there’s a technique to it.”

Eastern Surfaces has been fabricating Dekton for nearly 10 years, and their fabricators were instrumental in testing fabrication methods and determining best practices. Brian says it’s still challenging but the material and tooling manufacturers have been terrific resources. “It was a lot of trial and error initially, but we’ve figured out what works, and the material has improved over the years.”

Today, most of Brian’s fabrication team is accustomed to working with multiple materials. “We still do a fair amount of hand fabrication, so we will continue to invest in equipment to help us streamline. We have a lot of seasoned, experienced fabricators who do outstanding custom work. But at some point, those folks will be looking to retire. Specialized equipment and machinery are more important than ever.”

Efficiency and accuracy are cornerstones of Eastern Surfaces’ approach to the work. The team of 11 templaters uses Laser Products Industries’ LT-2D3Ds, and the sales teams use Moraware with integrations such as Job Well Done, DataBridge and Slabsmith. They’ve been using it for 20 years; before that, they were scheduling on a whiteboard. They’re looking at other solutions as the industry advances and new technologies emerge. “With this kind of volume, it can be a challenge to keep things organized, so we’re looking at new solutions to help inside and outside sales,” added Karen Kuranda, sales and business development manager.

For tracking the heavy machinery, Brian is implementing Amper, a solution that centralizes insights and provides holistic management tools to help review performance, communicate and execute smooth operations. “We need our equipment to run as much as possible, so if something is down, we need to understand why it’s not running.”

Brian says doing the research is one step that should not be missed when implementing equipment and tech solutions. “Talk to other fabricators who are using them. That’s how you’ll get the most accurate feedback and understand how these solutions can augment and improve your workflow. The equipment always works in theory, but it might not work for you in practice. And it’s always a good idea to bring your maintenance crew in at the beginning to ensure

Upselling is an essential part of the company’s sales process, and it augments its singular focus of delighting the customer. Eastern Surfaces offers additional services like sinks, faucets, cleaners, polishers, sealers and maintenance services. They also provide mapping, which enables the customer to see precisely how the slabs will be used in the project.

Brian retained an agency to help build the company’s website, which includes a blog, video library, slab inventory, news, and information to help educate the customers about materials and the fabrication process.

they understand what it will take to set it up and keep it running.”

Brian adds that training and preventive maintenance are critical. “These are big investments; they can make or break how your shop operates.”

In the Marketplace

Eastern Surfaces’ market is 85% residential and 15% commercial. They serve five distinct market segments: kitchen and bath dealers, home centers, builders, commercial and retail. They have a dedicated team for the home center segment and account managers for the other channels, but they all work together because there is cross-function. “In the end, they all need to get on the schedule,” added Brian. “Across all those market segments, they have to understand where the crews are traveling to minimize drive time and keep things efficient.”

Karen says that providing a well-rounded suite of materials gives Eastern Surfaces a competitive advantage. “There are about 30 fabricators within our area that fabricate stone, but the solid surface shops have dwindled,” she clarified. “We’re one of the few fabricators in our area that works with that material.”

Cosentino’s Dekton and porcelain continue to rise in popularity among their customers; it was Eastern Surfaces’ biggest growth segment last year, especially for cladding jobs like fireplaces, fullheight splashes and shower walls. They’ve also had some increased demand for solid surface in the residential market. “Typically, we fabricate solid surface for commercial projects like schools and hospitals, but there has been growing interest with consumers, particularly those homeowners who are new to the material — they weren’t around when the material was first popular.”

Dramatic materials and warmer tones that tie into design elements like wood tones and painted cabinets are trending,” she added. “Although quartz remains popular, there is a renewed interest in natural stone, especially quartzite. Our customers see these beautiful materials in magazines and on HGTV but aren’t necessarily aware of the performance properties. Our salespeople continually work with kitchen and bath dealers to educate the customers. We have to make them aware of the options so they can decide on the best material for the project. People often come in looking for a specific material, but when we give them that context, they often go with something else.”

“Quartzite as the example: You have to manage their expectations, that they’ll have to seal it and maintain it to some extent,” she said. “We have our customers sign a document that

Eastern Surfaces’ market is 85% residential and 15% commercial. They serve five distinct market segments: kitchen and bath dealers, home centers, builders, commercial and retail.

FABRICATOR PROFILE

acknowledges that we’ve made them aware of the benefits and drawbacks of the materials. We want people to be happy, so we must give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.”

Upselling is an essential part of the company’s sales process, and it augments its singular focus of delighting the customer. Eastern Surfaces offers additional services like sinks, faucets, cleaners, polishers, sealers and maintenance services. They also provide mapping, which enables the customer to see precisely how the slabs will be used in the project. “We want to maximize each selling opportunity by providing customers with a vast menu of great products, convenience and amazing customer service,” added Karen.

When it comes to marketing and advertising, Eastern Surfaces has been around long enough to bank a lot of happy customers, so good old-fashioned word-of-mouth brings in a lot of business. Past that, they have excellent branding across their fleet of vehicles — practical billboards, Brian calls them — and Karen leverages targeted digital advertising campaigns to reach new customers. She also runs advertisements in local high-end lifestyle magazines that hook into remodeling.

They retained an agency to help build the company’s website, which includes a blog, video library, slab inventory, news, and information to help educate the customers about materials and the fabrication process.

Company Culture

Eastern Surfaces prides itself in how it treats its employees, which then trickles down to how they treat the customers. “Even though there are 130 employees, I try to know all of them,” he added. “Some have worked in other shops and had negative experiences there. That context can be toxic if you don’t realign their experience and create a more positive environment. It’s all about communication, setting expectations, being transparent and providing the resources they need to help them develop their skills. They want growth opportunities.”

They have training programs for all departments, and Brian has toyed with the idea of creating a classroom for templaters and installers. “With how the labor market is trending, it will be important to be our own trade school in the coming years. Many of our managers and expert fabricators have contributed to the knowledge base. Anytime we have an issue, we document it and how to improve it. There’s such a wealth of knowledge — decades of experience — and you must capture it.”

“Even though there are 130 employees, I try to know all of them,” said Brian. “Some have worked in other shops and had negative experiences there. That context can be toxic if you don’t realign their experience and create a more positive environment. It’s all about communication, setting expectations, being transparent and providing the resources they need to help them develop their skills. They want growth opportunities.”

Eastern Surfaces is running an impressive suite of machinery, including a Fusion CNC sawjet from Park Industries. Brian is implementing Amper, a solution that centralizes insights and provides holistic management tools to help review performance, communicate and execute smooth operations. “We need our equipment to run as much as possible, so if something is down, we need to understand why it’s not running.”

In addition, Brian has brought in Synchronous Solutions to help with organizational structure and alignment across the company. “The whole goal is to have everyone focused on the same goals — to streamline customer service, production and profitability. We all have active projects that are in alignment with the company goals. These projects are communicated, and their progress is measured. Our employees have great improvement ideas, but we haven’t had a means of hearing them. This system provides us with a way to communicate throughout the organization.” Brian says he’s had good buy-in from the staff. They understand the focus and how they will get there as a team. “Everyone plays a part. Through this process, well, it feels much more like a well-oiled machine. It’s exciting.”

Brian also provides managerial coaching to those who are rising in the ranks. “In the past, we have promoted people because they were the best at their job, and we expected them to train the others to do the job like them. Often, they were not trained on the skills required to manage people, so now we make sure to provide them with the training they need to do that effectively.”

“The ensemble of people here is an extremely talented group. Once you’re here, you can’t imagine being anywhere else,” added Karen.

When it comes to safety, Eastern Surfaces stays proactive. Brian relies on the managers to enforce the company’s safety policies and suggest improvements. “Safety is a major component of our meetings, and we regularly communicate best practices to our teams. We emphasize the importance of safety, not just for them but for the people they are working with.”

Nearby Indiana University of Pennsylvania provides a

consultation and training resource for OSHA compliance, and Brian brings them annually. “They do a full inspection. While they’re not OSHA, we must fix any issues they find as a result of the inspection, or they’ll report us for noncompliance,” explained Brian. “Our fabricators wear air testing devices for respirable crystalline silica, which are shipped out for analysis.” He’s considering adding medical testing to get a baseline. “It’s important to our employees and their families to know they are working in a safe environment and that we support their well-being.”

Staying Connected

Being part of and supporting industry organizations has always been important for Eastern Surfaces. Brian is a member of the International Surface Fabricators Association, the Artisan Group, the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the Natural Stone Institute and the Rockhead Group. “Being part of these associations provides access to shared resources, knowledge and expertise. There are a lot of brilliant people in this industry, and the ability to exchange best practices has been a huge part of our success,” he explained. “Membership also offers the advantage of being part of a more extensive collective voice. Today, this is more important than ever. With some of the challenges we have, specifically silica, it will take everyone sticking together and supporting these groups to be our voice. We have to work together to drive the industry forward in a way that benefits us all.”

New Horizons

It’s clear that Eastern Surfaces has positioned itself for growth. Brian wants to expand and believes he has managers in all the right positions to keep going. “This industry continues to evolve and will be different in five years as we embrace learning, changing and evolving.”

“The best advice I can give others is to build your people, systems and processes so your business can run efficiently and support growth. It’s a puzzle; the most satisfying parts are when people are working together and figuring it out.”

Learn more about Eastern Surfaces at www.easternsurfaces.com.

C C C A A A B B B

2023 ISFA President Austin Maxwell presents Brian with the 2023 Fabricator of the Year Award. Through the years, Eastern Surfaces has embodied the core principles of ISFA: an adherence to strict standards of excellence, the pursuit of cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to ongoing innovation.

How to Turn ‘Kids These Days’ Into Top-Performing Teams

By Scott Greenberg

When I was 13, my dad let me start working regular hours at our family ice cream store in San Diego. The business was managed by my grandfather, who learned how to lead people while in the U.S. Army. You could tell. He had a very topdown approach to managing employees. He told people what to do and expected them to do it.

What worked for leading soldiers during World War II didn’t for leading teenage hourly workers after school and on weekends. They never responded to his leadership style the way people did in the military. He found this deeply frustrating.

“I don’t understand,” he’d complain. “I’m paying 100% of their check. Shouldn’t they give me 100% of their effort? I just don’t get kids these days.”

Theoretically, my grandfather was right. It makes sense that both parties should fully commit to their side of the employer-employee arrangement. But anyone who’s led hourly workers knows that’s just not realistic. Funding employees’ paychecks doesn’t necessarily motivate them. That truth has led to an echoed complaint since the concept of hired labor: Younger generations are softer, lazier and more entitled than their predecessors.

I present keynote speeches and workshops to business leaders and always try to speak with audience members before my sessions. I ask about their challenges. Invariably, the conversation goes something like this:

“So, what’s the most stressful part of running your business?”

“Employees.”

I anticipate this answer because that’s what I usually get, but I always ask them to expound. Their follow-up response is typically something like:

“Young people these days are so disloyal and entitled.”

“We just can’t find enough people.”

“They flake on interviews.”

“They’re constantly calling out.”

“They’re so unmotivated.”

“They never last.”

“They’re so thin-skinned.”

I hear these comments from my clients in retail, restaurants, hospitality, franchising, and most certainly remodeling, construction and manufacturing — all sectors that rely on young hourly help. In every industry, when it comes to managing frontline employees, they struggle.

Many bosses forget when voicing these complaints that these same comments were once made about them.

In 2013, Time magazine published a cover story called “The Me Me Me Generation” that described millennials as “lazy, entitled narcissists who still live with their parents.”

New York magazine ran a similar cover story called “The Me Decade.” The decade it referred to was the 1970s. Fortyfive years prior, in a piece called “The Conduct of Young People,” Hull Daily Mail printed, “We defy anyone who goes about with his eyes open to deny that there is, as never before, an attitude on the part of young folk which is best described as grossly thoughtless, rude, and utterly selfish.” And finally, “Young people are high-minded because they have not yet been humbled by life, nor have they experienced the force of circumstances. They think they know everything and are always quite sure about it.” That was from Aristotle in Rhetoric in the 4th century BC. The fact is, the old have been hating on the young for millennia.

In 2019, social scientists from the University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara conducted some interesting research examining this dynamic between older and younger generations. They interviewed older subjects and got their perspective on the young. They observed biases based on the older person’s current confidence level in a given area and their subjective, idealized memories of their youth. According to the study’s abstract, “Two mechanisms contribute to humanity’s

perennial tendency to denigrate kids: a person-specific tendency to notice the limitations of others where one excels and a memory bias projecting one’s current qualities onto the youth of the past. When observing current children, we compare our biased memory to the present, and a decline appears. This may explain why the kids-these-days effect has been happening for millennia.”

More reliable than these scientists is my mother. After complaining to her about my college-aged son’s flakiness, she began rattling off stories of my college years when I behaved with equal cluelessness. I couldn’t argue with the evidence. Apparently, I wasn’t the rock-solid, responsible kid I thought I was. It made me wonder. During my first few jobs, was I not the reliable, hard-working employee I remember to be? Did I contribute to my grandfather’s frustration?

I sympathized with him during the decade I ran my own retail business. For many years, my employees were my most significant source of stress. It was tempting to blame their entire generation for their incompetence. Apathy, tardiness, ghosting — it drove me crazy. I was clear about my expectations when I hired them. Why weren’t they meeting them? I’d joined the ranks of frustrated employers lamenting the days when we, as Gen-Xers, had a lot more to offer (despite what our Boomer parents thought).

might be responsible for the generation gap. I pondered questions such as:

What assumptions have I made about my team members?

What biases do I bring to my management?

How have my upbringing, my values, and my view of workplace norms impacted how I see my team?

Asking myself those questions put me in check so I could think differently — hopefully more objectively — about my young employees. I dispensed with all assumptions and asked important questions, such as:

What do my workers care about?

What drives them?

What triggers them?

Is money as important to them as I think, or do they have other priorities?

“The ego is the enemy of leadership and an impediment to self-improvement.”

I held group and individual conversations to explore these questions. I also conducted a blind survey among my team. I really wanted to understand my employees in hopes of increasing my influence and boosting their performance. It’s a logical way to proceed. Companies spend millions of dollars learning about the marketplace they want to serve. Doesn’t it make sense to invest time learning about the labor marketplace you want to lead?

The turning point came when I approached that question — why weren’t they meeting my expectations? — with curiosity and not just judgment. I needed to clear my head of frustration and stop with the generational comparisons. That increased self-awareness made it easier to observe my employees more objectively and better understand them. I realized my expectations were unreasonable. Like my grandfather, I thought training my team, treating them with respect and paying them fairly entitled me to loyalty and top performance. It didn’t. They needed more. They needed reminders. They needed coaching. They needed time. It wasn’t enough to manage them. I had to nurture them.

The process began with a little soul-searching. I’ve often found solutions to business problems in the mirror. That requires humility. The ego is the enemy of leadership and an impediment to self-improvement. I put mine aside and started reflecting on my management style and how I

With the data I collected, I was able to make changes. I offered them the additional acknowledgment they wanted. I explained the connection between the work they were doing with me and their own long-term goals. I spent a lot more time building culture. It was a series of small adjustments to my management and the workplace that made a world of difference. Only then did I discover what my team could really do. With these same employees, we saw increased sales, improved customer service ratings, higher employee satisfaction (which I measured) and longer retention. I got the performance I wanted from my team. It just took better management from me.

Employee underperformance may not be your fault, but it is your responsibility. Your team shouldn’t have to accommodate you. They won’t. You need to accommodate them. You’re probably updating the technology and tools you use in your operation so you can remain productive and competitive and keep up with the times. Think of management as a form of technology. It needs to be continually updated so

you don’t fall behind.

Since Time’s cover story in 2013, millennials have gone on to advance their careers, start families and mature as effectively as every generation before them. Despite growing up with participation trophies and screen addictions, today, they run corporations, perform surgeries and even govern countries. They’ve become powerful, independent contributors to society. As they increasingly become the primary leaders of the labor force, we can expect to hear them complain about the incompetence of Generation Z.

So, are younger employees today really as lazy and entitled as we older folks believe them to be? It’s the wrong question. Instead, we should ask what we need to do on our end to earn their devotion and grow them into the team we want them to be. And if we’re not willing to do that, then perhaps it’s not our employees who are entitled.

C C C A A A A B B B B 2 2 2 D V V V V

Scott Greenberg is a business speaker, writer and coach who helps leaders and teams perform at a higher level. His new book is Stop The Shift Show: Turn Your Struggling Hourly Workers into a Top-Performing Team. Find more information at www.scottgreenberg.com.

FOR YOUR BOOKSHELF

Stop the Shift Show is an essential guide for managers and business owners looking to transform their hourly workforce into a top-performing super team. This book offers practical strategies and techniques for effectively managing and coaching hourly workers, including:

• Determining your managerial style and avoiding common mistakes.

• Building trust with your team to create a positive work culture.

• Motivating employees to perform at their best and go above and beyond.

• Developing effective coaching techniques to help team members grow and improve.

• Creating a sense of purpose and ownership among employees to foster a high-performing team.

• Overcoming common challenges in managing hourly workers, such as turnover and scheduling issues.

Whether you’re new to management or an experienced leader, Stop the Shift Show provides valuable insights and actionable advice to help you elevate your team’s performance and drive success for your business. With its engaging writing style and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to build a high-performing team in today’s competitive marketplace.

Get the book at www.scottgreenberg .com/books/stop-the-shift-show-book.

The Road to Success is Paved with Clarity

By Marissa Bankert, ISFA Executive Director

Things are ramping up for the International Surface Fabricators Association; the future is bright, and our organization is positioned to accomplish great things on the road ahead. That path is clearer now that we have put in the work to finalize our strategic plan — our map — and our processes, the vehicles we use to get where we need to be. Because to effectively manage our member services and the opportunities we create to enrich your experience, we need directions — organization for the organization!

ISFA is not unlike many of the fabricator businesses we serve in that we are always looking for ways to be more efficient and ensure we are following our mission. One notable improvement designed to minimize roadblocks is the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) — a set of concepts and tools that empowers teams to reach their goals. We have implemented an EOS-based software to help us run our standing meetings, from the board of directors to committees to all staff meetings. It provides the structure we need to have clarity and accountability across all action items. It keeps us focused on the mission by ensuring that everything we do aligns with our strategic plan. Using this software, we can achieve our quarterly aims by breaking those down into weekly issues and assigned tasks. We can track outcomes through SMART goals:

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Relevant

• Time-Bound

Using this system has allowed us to be more effective when planning events, training sessions and the materials our members need to reap the full benefits of their membership.

In addition to this system for meetings, the team has been developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) — task-based roadmaps. It’s an excellent opportunity to review our processes for efficiency, and documenting them eliminates the guesswork

— the missed turns and potholes that create unwanted detours and road rage. Now, instead of having that moment that leads to, “I’m not sure; what did we do last time?” we have a library of documentation that tells us where we need to go and how we can get there. Examples include best practices for using our membership management system, creating marketing collateral and communications, and effectively managing the financial policies — even how we make this magazine you’re reading.

So why are we taking time now to develop these SOPs and improve our processes? Is it because we relish the extra work that goes along with creating this structure, or is it because we’re just trying new things? NO! It’s because we want to focus on the things that matter and lead us to success. Clarifying our processes and improving our organization gets us to the destination faster. Our mission is to promote the industry through education, standards, resources, camaraderie and safety, and EOS is breaking down the overarching mission into achievable goals with measured deliverables. It’s creating space for us to really think about what matters to our members and what aligns with our mission, as well as find ways to accomplish what we set out to do.

It has been a journey that enables us to dedicate the resources and improve our offerings, including the recent Fabricator Forum in Charlotte, upcoming events in San Francisco and St. Louis, fabrication training programs, and communications on important issues such as silica safety and the latest industry trends.

All businesses operate with some sort of core direction, but not everything is linear. With systems and processes in place, it creates the space you need to consider new opportunities, so they aren’t just blurs you’re flying by at 80 mph, wishing you had time to stop. Every business has room for improvement — a need to rethink what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. ISFA’s guiding principles have gotten us where we are today, and with a little tune-up, we’re revving our engines in anticipation of the great places we’re heading.

ISFA Appoints New Membership Director Heather Duve

ISFA is pleased to announce the appointment of Heather Duve as its new membership director. In this role,

Heather will lead the association in driving membership growth and retention, as well as contribute to the development of events, programs, groups, resources and other initiatives.

Before joining ISFA, Duve served as the membership and development director at the Water Quality Association (WQA), an Illinois-based organization representing the point-of-use, point-of-entry water treatment industry in the United States. During her tenure, she oversaw membership recruitment and retention initiatives, facilitated member support and spearheaded sponsorship recruitment for WQA events. She maintains a Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives.

ISFA’s Fabricator

Forums:

With a genuine passion for collaborating with members and association partners, she brings a wealth of experience to her role. Duve eagerly anticipates connecting with ISFA members and partners, immersing herself in the industry. “This is an exciting field,” she added. “And I’m diving right in — visiting local fabricators, suppliers and manufacturers. The warm welcome and generosity of everyone I’ve met have been truly inspiring. I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for this association and its members.”

“Heather comes to ISFA with the expertise that will drive growth and opportunity for the association and its membership,” said Marissa Bankert, ISFA executive director. “Her passion for association management and member services is a perfect fit for the organization, and we are excited to see how she can help us expand membership and increase engagement.”

Two-Day Sessions Designed to Educate and Inspire

ISFA’s first Fabricator Forum of the year was a huge success. The event, which took place in Charlotte, North Carolina, included presentations and roundtable discussions on silica safety, empowering employees to become problem solvers, tooling best practices for porcelain and Dekton, and leveraging artificial intelligence.

“I took so many notes my hand hurts,” said Kari Chalmers of Humboldt Countertops and Surfacing. “Using AI to help write emails will be a game changer!”

Attendees toured two fabricator shops — The Art of Stone and Harkey Tile & Stone — where they had an OSHA overview designed to identify common oversights and maintain compliance.

“We first learned about silica at an ISFA event nearly 10 years ago,” said Troy Page of Ellis Page Company. “The silica presentation and overview included some updates that helped me identify some places we might have exposure. I recommend these fabricator forums; there were so many great takeaways.” Feel like you’re missing out? Meet ISFA in St. Louis in September or Sacramento in June! Learn how you can attend at www.ISFAnow.org.

Eric Tryon urges fabricators to foster sustainability in their businesses by empowering and motivating employees to become engaged leaders who further their companies' success.

Attendees toured two fabrication shops where they had an overview of OSHA guidelines and identified common oversights. This time to network, share experiences and explore other facilities yields some of the most powerful takeaways for fabricators.

ISFA NEWS

Thank You and Welcome ISFA Members (In alphabetical order)

NEW

FABRICATOR MEMBERS

3C Store Fixtures

Wilson, N.C.

A.C. Waterproofing

Solutions

West Kelowna, Canada

Akropolis Marble & Granite

Colmar, Pa.

Alpine Stones Portland. Ore.

Bison Countertops

Ashland City, Tenn.

California Countertop La Mesa, Calif.

Chivino Surfaces Mesa, Ariz.

CKF Omaha, Neb.

Classic Granite & Marble Powhatan, Va.

Classic Systems West Palm Beach, Fla.

Clayton Properties Madisonville, Ky.

Colonial Marble & Granite

King of Prussia, Pa.

COMAF Marble & Granite

El Paso, Texas

D&H Designs Memphis, Tenn.

Delray Granite

Lakefield, Canada

Discover Marble & Granite

Fort Myers, Fla.

Distinctive Countertops & Cabinetry

Kalispell, Mont.

Distinctive Surfaces of Florida

Sarasota, Fla.

Finelines Granite & Quartz Edmonton, Canada

RENEWING FABRICATOR MEMBERS

5280 Stone Company Frederick, Colo.

Alpha Granite Austin, Texas

Atlantic Countertops Raleigh, N.C.

Bangor Wholesale Laminates Bangor, Maine

Bella Casa Countertops and Stone Littleton, Colo.

Beverin Solid Surface Lehigh Acres, Fla.

Bisley Fabrication Gresham. Wis.

City of Valdez Valdez, Alaska

Colorado Custom Stone Denver, Colo.

Construction Resources Decatur, Ga.

Counterscapes Tyler, Texas

Custom Stone & Marble Chapel Hill, N.C.

Cutting Edge Countertops Perrysburg, Ohio

Dominis Stone Kent, Wash.

GI Stone Chicago

Inland Counter Tops Rialto, Calif.

Jivko Stone and Tile Victoria, Canada

Johnson Granite Mount Airy, N.C.

Lakeside Surfaces Muskegon, Mich.

Lonestar Stone and Construction Garland, Texas

Majestic Stone Houston, Texas

Marble Today Palatka, Fla.

Mette’s Cabinet Corner Effingham, Ill.

North Country Contracting Salem, N.Y.

Persaj Countertops

North Vancouver, Canada

Premier Granite and Stone Grandville, Mich.

Pro Design Countertops

Wellington, Colo.

ProGranite Surfaces Mukilteo, Wash.

Quartz Co. Welland, Canada

Real Deal Countertops Summerville, S.C.

Shlok TeQ Granbury, Texas

Spraggins Orlando, Fla.

Stone Age Marble Victoria, Canada

Stone Experts Skokie, Ill.

Ellis Page Company Manassas, Va.

Galaxy Granite & Marble Hopkinton, Mass.

Granite Accents

Sioux Falls, S.D.

Granite Direct Wales, Wis.

Classic Cabinetry Ardmore, Ala.

Humboldt Countertops Fields Landing, Calif.

IntelliStone Franklin, Tenn.

Keystone Solid Surfaces Wichita, Kan.

Kodiak Building and Maintenance

Kodiak, Alaska

Lincoln Laminating Lincoln, Neb.

McDermott Top Shop Jefferson, Wis.

Paxton Countertops

Grand Ledge, Mich.

Quality Cabinets and Counters

Fort Myers, Fla.

Redding Countertops

Redding, Calif.

Rock Solid Marble and Granite Sheffield, Mass.

Sarto Countertops

Saint Marys, Kan.

SolidSurface Designs Pennsauken, N.J.

Sterling Surfaces

Sterling, Mass.

Surface Providers Alpharetta, Ga.

The Countertop Factory Anaheim, Calif.

The Countertop Shop Monclova, Ohio

The Granite & Marble Depot Aurora, Ill.

The Granite Place Burliington, Mass.

Top Priority Waipahu, Hawaii

Top Shelf Manufacturing Warren, Ohio

Triple M Surfaces Elkhart, Ind.

Unique Countertops Buda, Texas

White House Stone Lake Park, Fla.

Surface Creations of Vermont

Claremont, N.H.

Thruway Stone

Farmington, N.Y.

Trindco

Suffolk, Va.

United Granite

Tampa, Fla.

Urban Stone

Fallbrook, Calif.

Vascan Tile

Escondido, Calif.

VE Stone

Surrey, Canada

Vi Granite & Quartz Countertops

Nanaimo, Canada

Wolf Contracting & Services

Kodiak, Alaska

ISFA CONTACTS

ISFA P.O. Box 627 Ingomar, PA 15127 888-599-ISFA www.ISFAnow.org

Executive Director Marissa Bankert 717-253-5296 Marissa@ISFAnow.org

Membership Director Heather Duve 888-599-ISFA Heather@ISFAnow.org

Marketing and Communications Director Sarah Peiper 888-599-ISFA Sarah@ISFAnow.org

Project Coordinator Samantha Winslow 888-599-ISFA Samantha@ISFAnow.org

Web/Database Administrator

Amy Kyriazis 412-487-3207 Amy@ISFAnow.org

Administrative Assistant Kanani Camacho 888-599-ISFA Kanani@ISFAnow.org

Thank You

to our 2024 Sponsors

Sponsorship opportunities are available for qualifying manufacturers, distributors and other industry-related companies. These businesses are dedicated to the success of the International Surface Fabricators Association and fabricators everywhere. Through their contributions, sponsors enable ISFA to create meaningful opportunities for its membership including training, education, business development, networking and more.

ISFA ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORY

Companies listed in red are ISFA 2024 Sponsors

ACS International 4775 South 3rd Ave. Tucson, AZ 85714 520-889-1933 www.acstone.com

Aetna Plywood 1401 St. Charles Rd. Maywood, IL 60153 708-343-1515 www.aetnaplywood.com

Akrilika

Svobody Str., 29 Moscow 125362 Russian Federation 79119451961 www.akrilika.com

Aristech Surfaces (now part of Trinseo) 7350 Empire Dr. Florence, KY 41042 859-283-1501 www.aristechsurfaces.com

BACA Systems 101 Premier Dr. Orion Township, MI 48359 248-791-3060 www.bacasystems.com

BB Industries 4100 Appalachian Way Knoxville, TN 37918 800-575-4401 www.bbindustriesllc.com

Better Vacuum Cups

13841 Roswell Ave, Ste. K Chino, CA 91710 877-379-9909 www.greenbvc.com

BNP Media

2401 W. Big Beaver Rd. Ste. 700 Troy, MI 48084 248-362-3700 www.bnpmedia.com

Breton S.p.A

Via Garibaldi, 27 Castello di Godego 31030 Italy 3904237691 www.breton.it/en

Bronwick Recruiting 7700 Basil Dr. Austin, TX 78750 512-981-5294 www.bronwick.com

Caesarstone US 1401 W. Morehead St. Charlotte, NC 28208 818-378-2667 www.caesarstoneus.com

Cambria USA 31496 Cambria Le Sueur, MN 56058 507-665-5003 www.cambriausa.com

CaraGreen 1406 Transport Dr. Raleigh, NC 27603 919-929-3009 www.caragreen.com

Chemcore Industries 5311 Fleming Ct. Austin, TX 78744 866-243-6267 www.chemcor.com

Chemical Concepts 410 Pike Rd. Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 800-220-1966 www.chemical-concepts.com

Colonial Saw 122 Pembroke St. Kingston, MA 02364 781-585-4364 www.csaw.com

Compac USA 1777 NW 72nd Ave., Unit 2 Miami, FL 33126 305-406-3600 www.us.compac.es/quartz

Cosentino USA

355 Alhambra Cir., 10th Floor Coral Gables, FL 33134 786-812-0509 www.cosentino.com

Countertop Marketing Co. 402 Pequot Ave. #772 Southport, CT 06890 203-993-6676 www.countertop marketingco.com

Covia Corp 9930 Kincey Ave., Ste. 200 Huntersville, NC 28078 800-243-9004 www.coviacorp.com

Crossville Inc.

349 Sweeney Dr. Crossville, TN 38555 931-456-2110 www.crossvilleinc.com

Dal-Tile Corporation 7834 CF Hawn Frwy. Dallas, TX 75217 214-309-3162 www.daltile.com

Dixie Plywood & Lumber P.O. Box 2328 Savannah, GA 31402 912-447-7000 www.dixieply.com

Doyle Farris (Bellavati) 6606 FM 1488, Ste. 148-517 Magnolia, TX 77354 859-533-3079 www.doylefarris.com

Duda Consulting 3601 Southwest River Pkwy. Portland, OR 97239 503-949-7738

DuPont (Corian Design) 200 Powder Mill Rd. Wilmington, DE 19803 314-941-5179 www.corian.com

Durasein USA 7030 Quad Ave., Ste. 3 Rosedale, MD 21237 877-771-7712 www.durasein.com

Durcon

206 Allison Dr. Taylor, TX 76574 512-595-8000 www.durcon.com

Dwyer Marble & Stone Supply 23177 Commerce Dr. Farmington Hills, MI 48335 248-476-4944 www.dwyermarble.com

Easededge 907 Jesuit Lane St. Marys, KS 66536 785-202-3070 www.easededge.com

Elevated Industrial Solutions 2050 West Barberry Place Denver, CO 80204 303-908-9095 www.lanesupplycompany.com

Emnas Technologies

347 Ferndale Dr. South Barrie, ON L4N 9Y6 647-302-3630 www.emnastech.com

Evans Midwest 11441 E. Lakewood Blvd. Holland, MI 49424 616-546-8225 www.evansmidwest.com

Fabricator’s Business Coach

309 Gassaway St. Central, SC 29630-9197 864-328-6231 www.fabricatorscoach.com

Federal Brace

710 E Catawba St., Ste. A Belmont, NC 28012 877-353-8899 www.federalbrace.com

Fifth Gear Technology (Speed Label)

450 N. Addison Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-606-8055 www.speedlabel.net

GEM Industries

5030 N. Hiatus Rd. Sunrise, FL 33351 954-749-1228 www.gem-industries.com

Gemstone 2040 Industrial Pkwy. Elkhart, IN 46516-5411 574-294-8899 www.gemstonesinks.com

Grand Onyx

134 West South Boundary St. Perrysburg, OH 43551 567-686-1040 www.grandonyx.pro

Granite Gold

12780 Danielson Ct., Ste. A Poway, CA 92064

858-499-8934

www.granitegold.com

GranQuartz

3950 Steve Reynolds Blvd. Norcross, GA 30093

800-458-6222

www.granquartz.com

Groves Incorporated

818 Trakk Ln. Woodstock, IL 60098 815-337-9780 www.groves.com

Hallmark Building Supplies

901 Northview Rd., Ste. 100 Waukesha, WI 53188 800-642-2246

www.hllmark.com

Home Stone Designs 26834 Avenue of the Oaks, Unit B

Santa Clarita, CA 91321

818-518-4428

Hyundai L&C USA

2839 Paces Ferry Rd., Ste. 1100 Atlanta, GA 30339

888-426-9421 www.hyundailncusa.com

Ignite Consulting Group (Hot Sauce Selling Software) 450 N. Addison Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-606-8055 www.hotsauceyourtops.com

INEOS Composites

5200 Blazer Pkwy. Dublin, OH 43017

614-790-2078 www.ineos.com

Infinity Surfaces

Via Giardini Nord 225 P.IVA : 00175990365 Pavullo Nel Frignano Modena 41026 Italy 39 0536 329322 www.infinitysurfaces.it

InfoStream Solutions

134 West South Boundary St. Perrysburg, OH 43551 567-686-1040 www.infostreamusa.com

InnoChem/Akemi

160 Candlewyck Dr. Avondale, PA 19311 www.akemi.com

IPS Adhesives

(Integra Adhesives)

455 W. Victoria St. Compton, CA 90220 919-598-2400 www.integra-adhesives.com

Jaeckle Distributors 4101 Owl Creek Dr. Madison, WI 53718 608-838-5400 www.jaeckledistributors.com

Karonia Surfaces

Ansym Lodge, Water Lane Eggborough, GOOLE

DN14 0PN United Kingdom 447814415724 www.karonia.com

Karran USA P.O. Box 667 1291 East Ramsey Rd. Vincennes, IN 47591 410-975-0128 www.karran.com

Kohler Co. P.O. Box 899 Kohler, WI 50344 920-457-4441 www.kohler.com

Krion Solid Surface (Porcelanosa)

CTRA Villareal-Puebla De Arenoso KM1 Villareal 12540 Spain 34964506464 www.krion.com/en

Lapitec Via Bassanese 6 Vedelago, Treviso 31050 Italy www.lapitec.com

ISFA ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORY

Companies listed in red are ISFA 2024 Sponsors

Laser Products Industries 1344 Enterprise Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-755-5402 www.laserproductsus.com

LOTTE Chemical 6 Centerpointe, Ste. 100 La Palma, CA 90623 714-443-0901 www.lottechem.com

LX Hausys America, Inc. 900 Circle 75 Parkway, Ste. 1500 Atlanta, GA 30339 678-535-4113 www.lxhausysusa.com

Milia Marketing 2515 Jay Ave Unit 101 Cleveland, OH 44113 216-990-5250 www.miliamarketing.com

Moksh Tech #1204, Pushpak Landmark Bldg. Near Titanium City Center Anand Nagar Rd. Prahlad Nagar Ahmedabad380 015 India 3012522673 www.mokshcad.com

Moraware 13125 Welcome Way Reno, NV 89511 866-312-9273 www.moraware.com

MSI Surfaces 2095 N. Batavia St. Orange, CA 92865 www.msisurfaces.com

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

1095 W illowdale Rd., MS-2800 Morgantown, WV 26505 www.cdc.gov

Natural Stone Institute 380 E. Lorain St. Oberlin, OH 44074 440-250-9222 www.naturalstoneinstitute.org

Ollin Stone 301 E. Ball Rd. Anaheim, CA 92805 714-535-0800 www.ollinstone.com

ONE Wade 10075 Davisburg Rd. Davisburg, MI 48350 248-804-1408

Park Industries P.O. Box 188 St. Cloud, MN 56302 320-251-5077 www.parkindustries.com

Parson Adhesives Inc. (Chromalok) 3345 Auburn Rd., Ste. 107 Rochester Hills, MI 48309 248-299-5585 www.chromalok.com

Poseidon Industries 4080 Duncan Rd. Punta Corda, FL 33982 www.poseidonmachinery.com

Princeton Chemical Company 7030 Quad Ave., Ste. 3 Rosedale, MD 21237 877-778-6878 www.princetonchemical.com

Prodim Systems 7454 Commercial Cir. Ft. Pierce, FL 34951 772-465-4000 www.prodim-systems.com

Quote Countertops

11811 N. Tatum Blvd. #3078 Phoenix, AZ 85028 619-726-7660 www.quotecountertops.com

Rep Methods

1613 Congressional Court Richmond, VA 23238 804-238-3461 www.repmethods.com

Rock Doctor/Apex Products

8333 Melrose Dr. Lenexa, KS 66214 913-894-0288 www.rockdoctor.com

ISFA ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORY

Companies listed in red are ISFA 2024 Sponsors

Rockheads Group

815-210-1006 www.rockheadsusa.com

Sage Surfaces

6700 The Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 230-303 The Woodlands, TX 77382 837-403-2847 www.sagesurfaces.com

Sasso USA

220 N. Smith St., Ste. 414 Palatine, IL 60067 224-200-8004 www.sassousa.com

Schechner Lifson Corp. 4 Chatham Rd. Summit, NJ 07901 908-598-7813 www.slcinsure.com

Schultz Forming Products

2796 Loker Ave. W., Ste. 105 Carlsbad, CA 92010 800-822-2875

www.schultzform.com

Slab Caddy

5949 American Rd. E Toledo, OH 43612

419-726-7400 www.slabcaddy.com

SolidSurface.com

6641 N. Cibola Ave. Tucson, AZ 85718

520-247-3304

www.solidsurface.com

Stone Grid 2517 Nothumbria Dr. Sanford, FL 32771 887-909-0569

wwwstonegridusa.com

Stone Fabricator Elite

211 E 43rd St,. 7th Floor, #270 New York, NY 10017 646-599-5704 www.stonefabricatorelite.com

Synchronous Solutions

3405 Rainbow Dr. Waxhaw, NC 28173 704-560-1536 www.synchronoussolutions.com

Taffy Events (Coverings) 2300 Clarendon Blvd. Ste. 305 Arlington, VA 22201 301-774-7739 www.taffyeventstrategies.com

Tile Council of North America 100 Clemson Research Blvd. Anderson, SC 29625 601-506-1609 www.tcnatile.com

TotalHousehold Pro 65A Walnut Hill Rd. Bethel, CT 06801 203-733-1276 www.pro.totalhousehold.com

Trajus Surfaces 3 Dubon Ct. Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-777-2700 www.trajuscorp.com

Triton Stone Group 6025 West 80th St. Indianapolis, IN 46278 317-644-1200 www.tritonstone.com

US Silica

24275 Katy Fwy., Ste. 600 Katy, TX 77494 346-334-0745 www.ussilica.com

US Surfaces

4601 Spicewood Springs Rd. Bldg. 1, Ste. 100 Austin, TX 78759 512-454-2229 www.ussurfaces.com

Vicostone USA 11620 Goodnight Ln., Ste. 100 Dallas, TX 75229 972-243-2325 www.us.vicostone.com

Water Treatment Solutions

6 Merrill Industrial Dr. Hampton, NH 03842

603-758-1900 www.watertreatmentonline.com

Web-Don

1400 Ameron Dr. Charlotte, NC 28206 800-532-0434 www.web-don.com

Willis

1149 Pioneer Rd. Burlington L7M 1K5 Canada 289-775-5814 www.4willis.com

Wilsonart

2501 Wilsonart Dr. P.O. Box 6110

Temple, TX 76503-6110 800-433-3222 www.wilsonart.com

Wood Stock Supply

4705 S. I-90 Service Rd. Rapid City, SD 57703 605-341-6900 www.woodstocksupply.com

ZOLLER

3900 Research Park Dr. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734-332-4851 www.zoller.info/us/home.html

New Pin Stop from BVC Group

BVC Group has introduced their all new pin stop for cups measuring 105 mm and under. Used together with the popular SS150 Better Vacuum Cup for legendary holding power along with longer lasting durability, this pin stop ensures your parts are square every time. A quick on/off valve is now standard on all pin stops from BVC, so no more struggling with two hands to unplug vacuum lines or walking back and forth to turn valves. It doubles the holding power for proper placement of your heavy materials. To see the pin stop in action, visit www.bvcgroupinc.com/bvc-pin-stop-at-105mm-tall.

Float Frame Brackets for Countertop Support

Float Frame Brackets use patented post and stud brace technology to provide one of the highest carrying capacities available in counter support applications. With a weight capacity of 750 lbs., these brackets can be combined with any surfacing material to create the free-floating look you desire for countertops, shelving, storage, work benches and more.The fastening configuration of the brackets allows for easy installation using a clamping format that supports large overhangs securely and seamlessly. These cantilevered brackets are ideal for ADA-compliant designs, freeing up valuable floor space and increasing clearance under the counter. Brackets are available in two styles: Straight Arm (16.5 inches or 22.5 inches in length) and Low Profile (10 inches, 16 inches, or 22 inches in length). Email info@caragreen.com for more information.

Cambria is proud to introduce three new quartz designs for 2024. Annaleigh, shown here, is a marbled, soft taupe that captivates with its alabaster-hued background, honey accents, cool charcoal gray veins and delicate ebony flecks. It is available in high-polished Cambria Luxe and low-sheen Cambria Matte finishes. MacBeth takes center stage with a cool white background featuring honey shading and soft taupe veins, available in Polished and Cambria Matte finishes. MonTaaj, inspired by quartzite, radiates with antique gold accents that complement beige and taupe layers for luxurious depth. It is available in high-polished Cambria Luxe and soft-touch Cambria Satin finishes. Visit www.cambriausa.com/professionals/ fabricators to learn more.

Staron Solid Surface: Supreme Collection

Introducing Staron, a dynamic solution for design enthusiasts seeking versatility and quality. With a spectrum of over 100 colors and patterns, Staron facilitates effortless fabrication, allowing for the creation of intricate shapes and insets, including thermoformed curves. Seamlessly integrated into various structures like walls, columns and display fixtures, Staron boasts meticulously glued and buffed seams, ensuring a flawless finish. Its nonporous composition earns certifications for applications where natural stone falls short, such as in health care and food service settings. Designers and decorators commend Staron for its captivating Tempest colors and the authentic patterns featured in its esteemed Supreme collection.

Recently, Staron has partnered with Material Bank, enhancing accessibility, and simplifying the material-sourcing process efficiently for designers, architects and other industry professionals. To see all the options at Material Bank, scan the code or visit www.staron.com to learn more about Staron Solid Surface.

Cambria Quartz

Nature’s Palette: Vadara’s New Quartz Colors

Capturing the Timeless Beauty of Earth’s Landscapes

Vadara Quartz Surfaces is debuting seven new designs inspired by some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. Drawing inspiration from locales such as New Mexico’s White Sands National Park and Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Vadara continues its tradition of bringing the essence of nature into interior spaces.

Each new pattern reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation and enhances Vadara’s already impressive collection of quartz surfaces. These additions underscore Vadara’s position as a leader in the industry and demonstrate its dedication to creating visually striking and exceptionally functional surfaces.

Exploring the New Designs

Gossamer Sands features a bright white background with flowing, light brown veining. Imagine dawn breaking over

White Sands, New Mexico. Gossamer Sands captures this serene moment, where a warm glow touches pure white sand. The pattern’s delicate light brown veins echo the interplay of sunlight and shade across dunes carved by the winds of time, rolling like waves under an infinite desert sky.

Scandi Blue is a Calacatta marble-inspired quartz that

captures attention with its bold blue, brown, and rust veining set against a luminous white backdrop. Scandi Blue draws its inspiration from the majestic fjords of Norway, where sapphire blue waters meet rugged cliffs. The veins of blue, bronze and rust trace a path across a pure white field, mirroring the reflection of the sky on the water at midday. Scandi Blue invites you to infuse spaces with the calm and cool elegance of the fjords and their refined serenity.

With dynamic rust veining dancing across a bright white background, Desert Blush lends an air of warmth and

sophistication. Imagine the sun descending over the Mojave Desert, with the sky set ablaze. Desert Blush is a tribute to this evening spectacle, with its soft, rust-colored veins capturing the fleeting moment. It is a design that brings the serene yet vibrant essence of a desert sunset into any space, creating an atmosphere that is as invigorating as it is peaceful.

Safari Delta’s bold taupe and brown veining cut across a pristine white background, offering a modern interpretation

of classic marble with a touch of the wilderness. Inspired by the Okavango’s intricate network of channels carved through Botswana’s wilderness, the river breathes life into a landscape where every path of water is a lifeline. Safari Delta’s design reflects the vibrant pulse of the African wild, where the ebb and flow of the waters dictate the rhythm of life. It brings the drama and

serenity of the Okavango’s waters into your space, allowing for a design that is as bold as it is natural.

Golden Scribe features tan and blue-gray veining against a

bright white background, breathing elegance and refinement. It draws inspiration from the arid caves near the Dead Sea, where ancient scrolls were once secreted away. Reminiscent of these treasured manuscripts, tendrils of tan and blue-gray weave like lines of ancient text against a backdrop of aged parchment. It is an homage to the enduring legacy of knowledge, a pattern that brings the weight of history and the warmth of the desert into the spaces that feature it.

Moonlit Lace is inspired by Calacatta marble with creamy

taupe veining against a pristine white backdrop — subtle sophistication lends an air of calm. It calls to mind Normandy’s renowned Mont Saint-Michel as it emerges from the morning mist in a sepia-toned dreamscape. Tide and time seem to pause with silver and gray veins that trace the subtle strength and intricate detail of the historic abbey’s architecture. Paying homage to those gentle mornings where history whispers through the mist, Moonlit Lace is perfect for creating a space as tranquil as the still waters around Mont Saint-Michel.

Terra Vista is inspired by Poanazzo Calacatta marble, boasting white, tan and gray tones accented by flowing beige, gray and rust veining. Terra Vista conjures a bright winter’s day in Arizona with Sedona’s iconic red rocks standing in stark,

beautiful contrast against crisp, white snow. Terra Vista mimics earthen trails worn into the snowy blanket that drapes over the silent mountains. Offering a design that marries the fiery spirit of the desert with the gentle hush of snowfall, it embodies Sedona’s ability to wear the season with grace, making it ideal for spaces that yearn for a touch of natural beauty.

Elegantly Transforming Spaces

These new quartz surfaces can redefine the feel of entire rooms, effortlessly harmonizing with existing décor and elevating every room where they appear. Whether as countertops, vanities, full-height backsplashes or feature walls, Vadara’s quartz surfaces serve as the cornerstone of inspired design, offering endless opportunities for creativity and expression to professionals and homeowners alike.

A Commitment to Excellence

“We continue to strive to capture the essence of nature in our surfaces,” says Ed Rogers, executive vice president of US Surfaces, the parent company of Vadara Quartz Surfaces. “These new patterns not only add warmth, color and dynamism to our collection but also serve as cost-effective alternatives to natural stone slabs without compromising performance.”

Embrace Nature’s Beauty Indoors

Step into a world where the splendor of nature converges with the comforts of home, courtesy of Vadara’s exquisite quartz surfaces. Embrace serenity and sophistication as Vadara invites you to explore their full collection and experience firsthand the transformative power of nature’s beauty. Visit www.vadaraquartz. com to embark on a voyage of discovery today.

Eleven New Gilasi Colors

Costa, Baccara, Caramello, Aqua, Shiro, Fresco, Fiori, Miele, Guscio, Carbonella and Azzuro are the gorgeous new additions to Gilasi’s collection of recycled glass surfacing. All of Gilasi’s surfaces are made of recycled glass and a VOC-free epoxy resin, carefully engineered for superior performance. Gilasi offers several standard lines of nonporous solid surface: from large glass aggregate that creates a terrazzo aesthetic to one with very tiny glass aggregate that creates a monochromatic look. The new colors are all part of a medium-sized aggregate terrazzo-style collection, perfect for adding some personality to modern kitchens and bathrooms. In addition to the standard colors, Gilasi can create custom recycled glass surfaces, allowing customers to specify the colors and sizes of glass used. Gilasi uses locally sourced recycled glass as the aggregate and their surfaces are recyclable through the manufacturer’s take back program. For samples or more information visit www.gilasi.com.

LT3Raptor: Innovation, Sustainability & Value

LT3Raptor is a digital templating platform designed with a robust cloud-based management hub to make companies faster and more efficient not only in templating, but all areas of their process including job management, programming, quality control and more.

Brought to you by Laser Products Industries (LPI), this new softwareas-a-service platform encompasses myriad functions and tools that subscribers will have access to including LT3Raptor, LPI Cloud, StoneTag label system and LPI Learning Management System. This evolution is designed to revolutionize customers’ experience with LPI products and services, bringing a wave of continuous innovation, efficiency and seamless collaboration now and in the future to help grow and sustain their businesses.

If you are interested in learning more about LT3Raptor, please visit www.lt3raptor.com.

Rise by Mercury Mosaics

Rise by Mercury Mosaics offers a fresh take on the classic subway tile, blending timeless appeal with a contemporary twist. This innovative tile shape features the classic charm of a 4-inch by 8-inch subway tile, elevated by diagonal cut edges that add a modern touch to any space. Every diagonal subway tile is hand-cut, hand-glazed and fired to a beautiful sheen at the Mercury Mosaics Minneapolis headquarters. Available by the square foot, Rise ships on easy-to-install sheets, ensuring a smooth installation process. The Rise pattern offers a palette ranging from lively to serene with its four shoppable looks — Fiesta, Midnight, Black and Steel. Additionally, customers seeking a personalized touch can tailor their selection with Mercury Mosaics’ robust color palette and custom capabilities. For more information, visit www.mercurymosaics.com/pages/rise.

Antarctica Joins the glass2 Lineup

A blend of icy blue and cold black glass, Antarctica is the latest and greatest colorway from glass2. The combination creates a sense of depth and mystery, perfect for unique surfacing projects. All glass2 surfaces are made from 99% fused recycled glass and are resin-free. The versatile material is suitable for many applications including countertops, tabletops, fireplace surroundings, and wall or floor cladding. glass2 stands out in the surface world because the majority of their color options are fully translucent. Slabs are available in 3 thicknesses: 16 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm. This material is easy to clean and 100% nonporous. Visit www.caragreen.com/brands/glass2 for more information.

Low Clearance Brackets by Sinkits

The go-to solution for sink repairs and installations in cramped spaces lacking sufficient clearance between the sink rim and cabinet is a specialized installation tool. This tool is ingeniously designed for easy installation within the cabinet, flexing to seamlessly reach the underside of the sink rim. What sets it apart is its ability to address these challenges without the need for cutting or drilling, making it particularly suited for tight spaces and speedy repairs. In comparison to alternative methods, this innovative tool emerges as the fastest way to repair sinks, providing a quick and efficient solution. Its adaptability and simplicity in operation make it an indispensable choice for overcoming installation obstacles, ensuring a swift and effective repair process for sinks in constrained environments. Learn more at www.sinkits.com.

Mistio Series by Vicostone: Aspen & Elbert

Vicostone proudly introduces the Mistio Series, a cutting-edge evolution in marbleinspired quartz. The Aspen and Elbert designs capture the ethereal allure of Earth’s majestic mountaintops. Drawing inspiration from the valley fog of highlands, the Mistio Series designs boast unparalleled visual depth and environmental aesthetics. Aspen BQ8400 and Elbert BQ8401 intricately mimic the natural veins of Italian Arabescato marble in a palette of whites and grays, symbolizing neutrality and harmony. Available in 3 cm and 2 cm jumbo slabs sized at 130 inches by 65 inches, these designs cater to diverse project requirements. Elevate your projects with the vivid imagery of Aspen and Elbert, seamlessly blending modern sophistication with nature’s grandeur. Explore the Mistio Series at us.vicostone.com, where innovation meets timeless beauty.

New Lighter Weight GEM Orbital Sander

Xtone’s Emerald Green by the Porcelanosa Group

Part of the Marble Effect collection, XLIGHT Emerald Green hard surfacing has a blue-green hue emblematic of emerald jewel tones with delicate veining throughout. XLIGHT is a lightweight, large-format porcelain by Porcelanosa that recreates the look of cement, marble, stone, wood and metal with extraordinary realism. XLIGHT features an unparalleled design, revolutionizing the world of interior design for homes. This versatile large-format porcelain can be used as flooring or cladding, but also as exterior elements like facades, and is well suited for kitchens and bathrooms. XLIGHT is prized for its lightness, waterproof and stain resistance, as well as easy cleaning. Learn more at www.xtone-surface.com.

The GEM Orbital Sander features an 11-inch drive pad which reduces labor by at least 50% over traditional 5- or 6-inch rotary tools. And as opposed to high-speed rotary sanders, the 100% orbital action of the GEM Orbital Sander eliminates the possibility of swirl marks, leaving a totally consistent and uniform finish. Even though it is now 3 lbs. lighter, there is no need to apply pressure; the weight of the machine does all the work. Simply guide the sander across the surface like polishing a car. The GEM Orbital Sander comes with, or without, a shroud attachment for dust collection, and is available in 220 volts. Eleven-inch abrasives are available. This is the ideal tool for sanding large flat surfaces for both the solid surface and woodworking industries. The Gem Sander can also be used with concrete and metal surfaces. Visit www.gem-industries.com for more information.

The Silicosis Crisis & the Hierarchy of Controls

By Ted Sherritt, ISFA President

2024 continues to amplify awareness around the risks associated with the work we do as fabricators every day. From the products we manufacture and sell to the processes we implement to the machinery and supplies we buy, protecting employees from the respirable crystalline silica influences these critical business decisions.

And let’s be crystal clear: The responsibility for employee safety is 100% on the owner. It is up to ownership to set and management to enforce effective procedures that safeguard every employee, vendor, partner and customer. Ignorance of the risks associated with our work is not a defense; it’s a shameful cop-out.

Australia’s ban on engineered stone goes into effect in July. California is pushing to make its Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) permanent while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) considers changes to safety standards on a federal level. Other jurisdictions around the world are watching. Many provisions in Cal/OSHA’s ETS will improve employee safety. It calls for the enforcement of stop work orders when dry cutting, dry grinding, or dry polishing is observed or if dust is visible in the air. If noncompliant shops are shuttered until engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) are effectively put in place, at least the risk of harm to the workers in these shops is minimized. But enforcement is just one part of the wave required to turn the tide on the silicosis crisis. State legislation around fabricator licensing and supply channel controls is on the table, but there’s work to be done to amend the bill to focus solely on worker safety, training and awareness.

Along with legislative issues, Cal/OSHA has disregarded the Hierarchy of Controls established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) concerning the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) and Action Level (AL), which were established in the 2016 regulations. Based on the Hierarchy of Controls, Cal/OSHA’s reliance on PPE to protect workers focuses on the least effective control, thereby creating an unjustified burden on compliant fabrication shops. ISFA, in partnership with the Natural Stone Institute, is pursuing medical research that substantiates that the PEL and AL set by NIOSH are, in fact, effectively mitigating risk.

The study is being done by Yale University’s Medical Department to determine if the current federal standards are adequate. Many fabrication companies conduct air sampling to determine if they comply with air quality regulations in their region. Many also conduct medical testing on staff who work inside the shop and installers who fabricate in the field. As OSHA requires, the medical testing includes at least a chest X-ray with a B reading and spirometry testing to measure lung capacity. We assert that if you operate under the PEL and AL guidelines established by OSHA and medical testing of employees and no silicosis is diagnosed across this population of workers, then the current guidelines are adequate.

To gather accurate data, ISFA and NSI sent out a survey to its fabricator members, asking them to share their information with the researchers at Yale. The timeliness of this study is critical so that we can provide the findings to Cal/OSHA and influence informed decision-making. Cal/OSHA intends to finalize permanent regulations for approval before January 1, 2025.

To anyone who isn’t paying attention or who doesn’t think what is happening in California will affect them, there are many examples of federal OSHA adopting California regulations verbatim. What happens in California will likely be coming to a jurisdiction near you. ISFA and NSI are committed to protecting the health and well-being of fabricators and helping employers access the resources they need to make informed decisions. It’s our charge as trade associations to ensure fabricators have representation in the regulatory arena and that our industry acts in the best interest of everyone involved.