ISFA Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 5, Issue 4

VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 4 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

Solid Surface in Russia Page14

Inbound Marketing Page 26

Fabricator Profile: KB Surfaces Page 28 Big Happenings at ISFA Page 32

A Surface Fit for a King Solid Surface Makes Royal Debut in Versailles Page 20

Circle RS#01 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

CREDITS Letters to the Editor

Photography

Please send letters to editor@isfanow.org or to Letters, ISFA, 165 N. 1330 W Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057 or fax to (801) 341-7361 attention: Editor.

Include a telephone number and address (preferably an email address).

Letters may be edited for clarity or space. Because of the high volume of mail we receive, we cannot respond to all letters. Send queries about Countertops & Architectural Surfaces to editor@isfanow.org or mail to ISFA, 165 N. 1330 W. Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057 or fax to (801) 341-7361 attention: Editor.

Photography/graphics provided by: Chuck Sawyer, CREA Diffusion, Jacques Schneider, KB Surfaces, Russ Lee and Moraware.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces welcomes Letters to the Editor.

If you have questions about the magazine, or would like to make a comment, or voice an opinion about the magazine, ISFA, or the industry in general, please feel free to write to us.

Contacting ISFA

Phone: (801) 341-7360 Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 Fax: (801) 341-7361 editor@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org

About this Magazine

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in September. Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces are available at the nonmember “newsstand” price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces is also available by individual subscription at the following rates: ISFA nonmembers, one year (five issues) $30.00; ISFA members, one year free with every membership renewal.

Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States.

Call for details. To subscribe, call (877) 464-7732. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

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

Magazine Credits

Publisher & Editor: Kevin Cole Proofreader: Nancy Mueller-Truax Design: V2 Marketing Communications

ISFA Officers of the Board

Mike Langenderfer, President Dave Paxton, Vice President Michael Astill, Secretary Russ Berry, Immediate Past President

ISFA Directors

Erica Hussey, Director Mellisa Hill, Director Mark Anderson, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Staff

Chuck Sawyer, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Mike Nolan, Education Director Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative Jennifer Plante, Administrative Assistant & Registrar

Cover Photo

French fabrication company CREA Diffusion took on a huge project at the Palace of Versailles, using 16,000 sq. ft. of DuPont Corian to clad 11 rooms. Read the full story on Page 20.

Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. 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. Periodicals postage rate is paid at the Lehi, Utah, post office as well as others. Opinions expressed by writers in this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces or the International Surface Fabricators Association, but rather those of the individual writers.

Postmaster: Send address change to Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine, 165 N. 1330 W. Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 3

CONTENTS

Features 14 Solid Surface in Russia

A look at fabrication in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

18 Management Matters

Answering architect’s frequently asked questions about solid surface.

20 A Surface Fit for a King

CREA Diffusion installs solid surface in the Palace of Versailles.

26 Inbound Marketing

14 20

What it means and why it is important to you, the countertop fabricator.

28 Fabricator Profile: KB Surfaces

Departments 5 From the Editor 6 Executive Director’s Letter 8 President’s Letter 9 Calendar of Events 10 Industry News 14 Education Connection 18 Management Matters

26

28

32 ISFA News 39 ISFA Fabricator Directory 44 Product News 49 Reader Service Form 50 Classifieds/Ad Index

4 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

From the Editor From the desk of Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher, and ISFA Communications Director

It’s a WWW World — Even More Years ago, I wrote an editorial titled “It’s a WWW

university. Everyone is plugged in and half of

your website rather than spending your valuable

becoming available online. It’s amazing how far

with them in their pockets in the form of their cell

your business can help set expectations for

World” in which I pointed out just how much was the Internet has advanced in just the years since I wrote that, let alone since its inception. And its presence just continues to grow.

Growing up in a somewhat traditional (and

conservative) blue collar family, the closest thing to a computer you would find in my boyhood

home was a hand-held football game where a

bunch of red blips were moved around on a small screen avoiding other red blips. We didn’t even

have an Atari until I was a teenager (and by that time, it was way outdated).

However, I was among the first generation of

pupils to get exposed to computers in school.

I remember staying after so I could log time

on the Apple II computers, playing games like

Oregon Trail and Zork and even learning a little

the people I know seem to carry the ’net around phones.

So, fan or not, it’s an even more www world than ever and it’s not going away.

time in person. Providing good information about your customers before they ever visit you. And if you had someone wanting to buy a countertop from you, would you tell them you didn’t have

time? Once your website is created and posted,

That said, it continues to amaze me how many

depending upon the complexity, it may not take

advantage of what has become a very important

Of course, the more time you can dedicate to it,

run across a fabricator that doesn’t have even a

presence is better than no presence at all.

people and how many businesses fail to take

a lot of maintenance from you or, really, anyone.

tool for enterprise. It dumbfounds me when I

the better it will likely work for you. But, a limited

rudimentary website — zero, zilch, none — and believe me there are hundreds and hundreds of them out there. It’s even more shocking when I run across a supplier or a manufacturer that

doesn’t have a Web presence, although that is a relative rarity nowadays.

As for the cost, a domain name (the www.

whatever.com) and a place to host your site can cost you as little as $25 a year. Of course if your Web design skills are lacking, you may have

to pay someone with the know-how to put a

website together for you, but you don’t have to

If you don’t have a website, I can’t tell you in

hire the most expensive and advanced website

you get one, even if it is just a few pages with

that might be within your own family. The younger

offer, a few photos of your work sprinkled

Why not ask around for a niece or nephew or

information. I can say with almost complete

to kick things off? It is astonishing how many

basic programming.

strong enough words how important it is that

developer on the market. It is amazing the skills

When my best friend in junior high got a Vic-20

descriptions of the products and services you

generation eats, breathes and sleeps the Internet.

about, and your hours of operation and contact

some other family member that has the skill

surety that you are losing business if you don’t.

successful websites are built and run by those

Your customers, no matter whom you are selling

college or university for a design student. College

computer for Christmas, it was a huge deal.

In high school, computers started to be more

present, and a very basic modem was available, but even then I never imagined the impact it would have on the world.

By the time I got to college, the Internet had hit

like a bomb, and email and the Web were aspects of my coursework that were required to be

mastered. I remember taking out a $2,000 loan

to buy my first computer (which was more than I’d spent buying my first car), and delving into

to, and your potential customers are conducting business on the Web. Even if they never make a

purchase online, they are doing research, finding potential goods and services to buy, and most importantly places to buy them.

the online world. At that point, I began to suspect

Maybe you have good excuses why you don’t

change everyone’s life.

money, or the know-how to build a website. I hate

that this was a technology that was going to

Flash forward 20 years, and I wonder how the world managed to get anything done without email, websites and Internet searches. On a

daily basis I send and receive 100 to 200 emails personally! My children by 10 years old knew

nearly as much about computers and technology as I knew by the time I’d graduated from the

have a website? You don’t have the time, or the to say it, but in the end, those are just excuses.

In reality, you don’t have the time or money NOT

to get a website going for your business. And as

under 25. Or check with your local community

kids are always looking for a few extra bucks. Or with a little time, you (or someone on your staff)

may even be able to master the basic skills and

put together something. All in all, I’m confident in

saying a basic website can be developed for less than $250. And if you make even a single sale

because someone found you on the Web, isn’t the investment worth it?

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

for the know-how, there are plenty of people who can help, inexpensively.

Having a website can ultimately save you time.

Tire-kickers may be able to do their research on

Kevin Cole

Editor & Publisher

kevin@isfanow.org International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 5

From the Executive Director From the desk of Chuck Sawyer, Executve Director

Sharing Leads to Improvement I was working in the office recently when I

that can be achieved when we share our

mine who was quite active in ISFA years ago.

a catalyst for exchange between members.

received a phone call from an old friend of

He has since sold his business, but he still keeps in touch. We had a wonderful time

talking about the past as well as the future of ISFA. I was energized by the conversation, especially by his eagerness to help even though he is no longer in the industry.

knowledge with others. ISFA has always been Our fabricator training programs, seminars, educational offerings at trade shows and

personal interactions at national, regional

and local meetings have always resulted in a

sharing of information, the result of which has improved the whole industry.

owners with seasoned individuals who have a proven record of success in the industry.

And we will be energizing the grass roots of our organization by holding a series of gatherings around the country. Modeled after the very

successful events that were held during the early years of ISFA, these networking and educational opportunities will include manufacturing and shop tours, seminars, working groups and

Later, I mentioned the conversation to Mike

Over the coming year, a high priority of ISFA

social events, all geared to helping our member

Mike told me a story. Years ago he was at an

educational offerings. We will be rolling out

At ISFA we measure our success in terms

Langenderfer, the new president of ISFA, and ISFA event and was listening to a conversation

between my friend and another board member.

The conversation was about some of the

methods they used to measure the productivity of their businesses, and it was a conversation he not only never forgot, but learned from.

Mike was impressed at what he could learn

from just listening to a conversation between his peers.

The story he told made me reflect on the power of our organization and the value

is to continue to improve and expand on our a program that brings our Total Fabricator

Training into the field, making state-of-the-art training available to our members regionally

and on-site through a group of ISFA Certified Trainers. In addition we will be launching a

Web-based training series aimed at middle

companies connect and succeed.

of assistance we are able to provide to our

members and the industry overall, but a key

ingredient is participation. I hope you will all join us and pitch in to make this coming year one of the best in ISFA’s history!

managers as well as a new program for

advanced education of senior managers.

Our Million Dollar Mentor Program will get

Chuck Sawyer

improved curriculum that matches business

cksawyer@isfanow.org

a shot in the arm this year with a new and

ISFA Executive Director

New for 2013 ISFA Presents

The CEO Roundtable A forum for education, collaboration and enlightenment on the issues facing the leaders of our industry.

The first Roundtable event kicks off in Cincinnati, Ohio April 5 - 6

6 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ISFA will present a new opportunity for the executive management of our fabricator companies to share experiences, common concerns and best practices regarding the process of running small businesses. Throughout the year we will also provide additional opportunities to present programs, information and courses specifically aimed at increasing the skill set of company senior management in order to insure that ISFA member companies can perform with world-class results.

To find out more or to sign up for the ISFA CEO Roundtable contact Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#02 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

From the President From the desk of Mike Langenderfer, ISFA 2012-2013 President

WOW, What a Year!

My name is Mike Langenderfer and I’m the new

to the board Mr. Chuck Sawyer, my choice

We will be sending out emails announcing

Holland, Ohio, called The Countertop Shop. We

board unanimously approved him as the next

industry partners to promote these activities

president of ISFA for 2013. I own a business in do everything from laminate to solid surface to

granite countertops. I have been in business for nearly 25 years and in the countertop business for the last 11. This is my fifth year on the ISFA Board of Directors.

First off, I’d like to mention ISFA’s outgoing

president. All I can say about Russ Berry and 2012 is “WOW, what a year!” His leadership through the economic downturn was

to be the next voice and leader of ISFA. The

Executive Director. Welcome aboard, Chuck! We are going to have a very busy year.

This year ISFA is planning to hold numerous ISFA Gatherings around the country. These

are simply one-day events where we can get

together, learn a little more about our industry and network with fellow fabricators.

We are also planning Owner Round Table

the events and we will be working with our and events.

2013 is the year; now is the time. Believe me, you need to be involved in ISFA. You cannot

afford to miss these events. In today’s world

of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the Internet in general, there is nothing that compares to

looking someone in the eye, clinking glasses and discussing face-to-face with your peers

events. These will be events for owners and

yours and their plans and concerns for the

exemplary. I am lucky that throughout 2013 he

come together and hear some of the legends

you learn, and earn, from these meetings by

part of the board of directors, and available to

future. We will have leaders from manufacturers

won’t be able to measure what you missed if

great year.

industry information. These events are designed

I hope to see you all at an upcoming ISFA

I have been very vocal over the years about the

our industry and to keep you ahead of your

outstanding. His knowledge, expertise and

upper management at surfacing companies to

future. You will be able to measure how much

will be the Immediate Past President of ISFA, still

of our industry talk about the past, present and

watching your company improve, but you

give me advice and support. Thanks, Russ, for a

and suppliers on hand to give you the latest

you don’t attend. Get involved in ISFA now.

willingness to help others in our industry are

benefits of belonging to ISFA. I’m not a public speaker or a salesman; I’m a fabricator. And

because I’m a fabricator, I belong to ISFA. Many

to keep you informed on what’s happening in competition. Don’t stay home and let your competition get ahead of you.

of you have heard me say over and over that my

Plans are coming together for another Million

In the past I have attended ISFA’s Million Dollar

program that will teach the participants a

ISFA educational programs. I’m a firm believer

could make or break a company if you don’t

what you put into it and my company is thriving

fabricators with experienced mentors in the

it to get something out of it.

them along the path to growing their business.

company is where it is today because of ISFA.

Dollar Mentor Program. This is an educational

Mentor Program, ISFA gatherings and several

broad range of business-related subjects that

that you get out of an association more than

know what you’re doing. The program will pair

proof of that, but you have to put something into

industry who will be there side-by-side to help

It’s now my turn to lead as ISFA’s new president.

My goal is to offer to all past, present and

future members the opportunity to succeed

and grow through ISFA. Starting last August

the next level. I would like to hear from you. My email address is mike@countertopshop.net.

Your suggestions and opinions will help me lead your association through 2013.

This is my first letter in the magazine as

president of the association. I hope by the time I am writing my last letter as president, one

year from now, that many of you will be able to say the same thing I said about this past year: “WOW, what a year!”

businesses and can help new businesses avoid some of the pitfalls the mentors have already experienced.

This is only the beginning of what is to come in

board meeting in Philadelphia, I presented

in this and upcoming editions of this magazine.

8 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

how ISFA has helped me take my business to

The mentors have experienced growth in their

at the IWF show in Atlanta, I began my search for a new director for ISFA. At our November

event. Look me up and I’ll be glad to tell you

2013. You can read more about these events

Mike Langenderfer ISFA President

mike@countertopshop.net

Calendar of Events Buddy Rhodes Advanced 3-D Mold Making Workshop Jan. 15 – 18 San Francisco, Calif.

(877) 706-5303

Cheng How to Make Concrete Countertops Training Jan. 25 Berkeley, Calif.

(510) 849-3272

Stone Forensics Certified Stone & Tile Inspector Training Jan. 29 – Feb. 1 Las Vegas, Nev. (321) 514-6845

World Stone Congress Jan. 29 – 30 New Delhi, India +91 802-341-3001

StonExpo/Marmomacc/ Surfaces 2013

ISFA Solid Surface Total Fabricator Training Level I Feb. 18 - 21 Orem, Utah (877) 464-7732 www.isfanow.org

Cheng Decorative Fiber Reinforced Concrete Training Feb. 25 – 27 Berkeley, Calif.

(510) 849-3272

CCI Precast & GFRC Countertop Training Feb. 25 – March 1 Sydney, Australia (888) 386-7711

Vitoria Stone Fair Feb. 26 – March 1 Vitoria, Brazil +55 273-434-0600

Xiamen Stone Fair 2013 March 6 – 13 Xiamen, China +86 592-595-9616

ISFA CEO Roundtable April 6 Cincinnati, Ohio (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

April 13 Los Angeles, Calif.

(877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

Oct. 7 – 10 Las Vegas, Nev (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

Coverings 2013 April 29 – May 2 Atlanta, Ga. (703) 683-8500

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

Natural Show

Oct. 19 Seattle, Wash.

(877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

IWF 2014

India Stonemart 2013

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

World of Concrete

Cheng How to Make Concrete Countertops Training

Cevisama 2013 Feb. 5 – 8 Valencia, Spain +34 96-386-1100

Buddy Rhodes Comprehensive Workshop Feb. 6 – 8 Chattanooga, Tenn.

(877) 706-5303

ISFA Stone/Quartz Total Fabricator Training Feb. 8 – 11 Oakland, N.J (877) 464-7732 www.isfanow.org

March 15 Berkeley, Calif.

(510) 849-3272

Cheng Advanced Concrete Design Training March 18 – 22 Berkeley, Calif.

(510) 849-3272

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

March 23 Tampa, Fla. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

Cheng Wetcast & Fiber Reinforced Concrete Training April 3 – 5 Berkeley, Calif.

(510) 849-3272

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

ISFA Stone/Quartz Total Fabricator Training

April 19 – 22 New Orleans, La. (800) 933-8735

Concrete Decor Show

Feb. 5 – 8 Las Vegas, Nev. 972-536-6373

August 24 Chicago, Ill. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

KBIS 2013

April 18 – 21 Beijing, China +86 105-781-1660

April 30 – May 2 London, United Kingdom +01 30-385-6117

Jan. 31 Jaipur, Rajasthan, India +91 141-512-2610

ISFA CEO Roundtable

Sept. 21 Cincinnati, Ohio (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

SFA Workshop

March 11 – 15 Charlotte, N.C. (541) 341-3390

Aug. 15 – 16 Thousand Palms, Calif

Stonetech 2013

Jan. 29 – 31 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 547-3477

March 14 – 15 Rome, Ga.

SFA Workshop

May 11 Atlanta, Ga. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

Aug. 20 – 23 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333

Coverings 2014

Stone + Tec 2013

April 29 – May 2 Las Vegas, Nev. (703) 683-8500

SFA Workshop

Submit your event for consideration in our Calendar by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org.

May 29 – June 1 Nuremberg, Germany +499 118-606-8108 June 13 – 14 Shawnee, Okla.

AIA National Convention June 20 – 22 Denver, Colo.

(202) 626-7300

ISFA Grassroots Regional Gathering

July 13 Boston, Mass.

(877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org

AWFS

July 24 – 27 Las Vegas, Nev. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 9

In the Industry EPA Confirms Cupron Enhanced Eos Solid Surface Kills Bacteria

Cupron and EOS Surfaces jointly developed

this material

Eos Surfaces Cupron-

enhanced solid surface product has been confirmed by the EPA

to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria, according to a joint release by Eos and Cupron. Cupron Enhanced

with a range of

performance characteristics that provides the

mechanical properties of nonporous solid surfaces, the aesthetics for design flexibility and high

EOS solid surface has received the Environmental

antimicrobial performance. Because the Cupron

Public Health Claim that the copper-enhanced

it will not lose its effectiveness over time and

negative and Gram positive bacteria within two

modified as needed.

Protection Agency’s (EPA) approval to make a

technology is embedded throughout the surface,

material can kill greater than 99.9 percent of Gram

wear-and-tear. It can be fabricated, polished and

hours of exposure. Testing demonstrates effective

Additionally, Eos is building a new facility in

antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus

aureus (ATCC 6538), Enterobacter aerogenes

(ATCC 13048), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA-ATCC 33592), Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ATCC 35150) and Pseudomonas

aeruginosa (ATCC 15442). Prior to this, only

elemental copper and certain copper alloys held this official distinction.

The approval is based on Cupron Enhanced

EOS Surfaces’ ability to kill specific disease-

causing bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is

one of the most common strains of antibiotic-

resistant bacteria and a well-recognized cause of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs).

In order to submit these claims to the EPA, the

surface first had to achieve a 100 percent pass rate of thousands of samples at an independent testing laboratory under the highest laboratory standards available. The samples were tested in various

environmental conditions, cleaning protocols and

for efficacy after repeated exposure. Eos Surfaces

also performed extensive ASTM testing to support mechanical performance claims.

“Our next goal is to establish a network of

distributors, fabricators and end-use partners to

get these materials in the field so that it can begin

saving lives, keeping people healthier and reducing

Norfolk, Va., for the large-scale manufacturing of Cupron Enhanced Eos. The facility is expected

to begin operation in early 2013. The new plant

will manufacture various thicknesses of Cupron Enhanced Eos cast slabs, perform finishing operations and will have the capability to

manufacture premade vanities and other ancillary surfacing products for microbial control.

NSF Working on Sustainability Standards for Countertops

fair value. In response to this preliminary ruling,

Chinese companies will be required to pay cash

deposits on drawn stainless steel sinks imported

into the United States in amounts ranging from 50

to 76 percent of the customs value of the imports.

The investigation was initiated in March in

response to petitions filed by U.S.-based sink

company Elkay Manufacturing. Punitive duties would be imposed after both the Commerce Department and the U.S. International Trade

Commission (USITC) make affirmative final rulings.

The USITC is expected to make a final decision over the issue in February.

In a separate investigation, the department

preliminarily determined in July that drawn stainless sinks from China received countervailing subsidies of 2.12 percent to 13.94 percent. Because of this

earlier ruling, Guangdong Yingao Kitchen Utensils Co. Ltd. of Foshan City faces a 2.15 percent

duty penalty. And sinks from Zhongshan Superte

Kitchenware Co. Ltd. of Zhongshan City (including those exported by Foshan Zhaosuhn Trade Co.

Ltd.) face a 13.94 percent additional duty. All other

Category Rule (PCR) for residential countertops

countervailing duty.

(NCSS), part of NSF, is developing a Product

Chinese producers will be hit with an 8.08 percent

in accordance with ISO 14025. The rule will cover

Caesarstone To Build U.S. Manufacturing Plant

natural stone, solid surface, engineered stone,

high pressure laminate and recycled materials. It

may also apply to concrete, stainless steel, glass and tile. PCRs define the parameters of a life

cycle assessment (LCA) for a particular product

group and what to include in the resulting report, called an Environmental Product Declaration.

LCAs measure inputs, outputs and environmental impacts of a product across its lifespan, from cradle to grave. The Environmental Product

Declaration is a third-party-verified report that may function like a nutrition label to explain the data generated from a life cycle assessment.

EOS Surfaces will set up a product stewardship

Preliminary Findings of Chinese Sink Dumping Issued

program to support the responsible use of the

The U.S. Commerce Department issued a

technology and obtain feedback from users of the

second preliminary anti-dumping decision in late

surface. Cupron and Eos, together with various

September regarding Chinese stainless steel

healthcare partners, will further evaluate the benefit of antimicrobial-protected surfaces (hard surfaces

drawn sinks. The determination was that Chinese

and textiles) in reducing the amount of disease-

manufacturers have been selling drawn stainless steel sinks in the United States at prices that are

10 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

that prices were 54.25 to 76.53 percent below the

The National Center for Sustainability Standards

costs,” said Ken Trinder, CEO. Cupron and

causing bacteria in medical facilities.

international trade rules. The determination was

well below fair value, in violation of U.S. law and

Caesarstone will be opening a U.S. quartz surfacing production facility in 2014. While a location has not yet been named, the $75 million facility will

eventually have two production lines for Caesarstone

products. The U.S. facility will expand the company’s production by 50 percent. The first line is slated to

be in production by late 2013, with the second line

to be added in the future.“We believe that expanding our manufacturing footprint into the United States will provide us with a number of competitive and

strategic benefits that will serve our long-term growth plans, most significantly the related improvement in delivery times,” said Yosef Shiran, CEO.

The company will also be installing manufacturing

equipment at its Israel plant, incorporating a major part of a fifth production line. This $13 million

addition will increase production capacity by 15 percent and is set for completion by October

2013. These expansions come on the back of the company going public; it began trading on the NASDAQ market in March.

Avonite Expands Distribution Avonite Surfaces expanded its distribution through new agreements with Atlantic Plywood and

DIXIEPLY. Atlantic Plywood was given distribution rights for New England, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and eastern Pennsylvania.

The full product line from Avonite became available Oct. 1 through Atlantic. In the Southeast and the Carribean, DIXIEPLY is now Avonite’s exclusive

distributor. Dixie’s locations in Nashville, Atlanta,

Charlotte, Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami will inventory Avonite surfacing products and will service markets including Tennessee,

Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and the Caribbean.

Distelhorst to Retire as Head of MIA, Hieb to Take Over Role Garis “Gary” Distelhorst, CAE, executive vice

president & CEO of the

Marble Institute of America (MIA) since 2002, will retire Dec. 31, 2012, after an accomplished 43-year

career as a senior-level association executive.

The MIA Board of Directors has named James

Hieb, CAE, the association’s vice president, as his

successor. Hieb becomes the MIA’s executive vice president Jan. 1. “It’s been an extraordinary honor

and privilege to lead MIA during this time of growth,

challenge and change,” said Distelhorst. “The board

Silestone Partners with Poggenpohl Silestone by Cosentino partnered with Poggenpohl, a worldwide German kitchen brand, by becoming the exclusive quartz surfacing material on display at all Poggenpohl Corporate showrooms nationwide. To kick off the partnership, Poggenpohl’s top designers and showroom managers visited the Cosentino Group international headquarters in Almeria, Spain. There, they were given an exclusive look at the making of Silestone via a tour of the factory and a new product presentation.

Zuckerman chief executive — laminates and

panels. Zuckerman’s role is to pursue synergies

between global operations in the areas of product development, manufacturing, technologies and systems. Formica also named Bryce Hartman national segment manager. Hartman will work

closely with operations, marketing, customer service and finance to develop the products, programs and service initiatives for the postform, partition and manufactured home business segments.

Wilsonart Majority Stake Bought from ITW Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) and Illinois Tool

Works Inc. (ITW) have formed an agreement under which ITW’s Decorative Surfaces business will

become a new, independent company operating

New Website Provides Countertop Industry Information A new website at www.CountertopResource.com seeks to promote expansion of knowledge in the

countertop industry. The site features information on new products and industry happenings and

events, as well as articles, a blog, a collection of videos and numerous industry links. It will also be launching an e-newsletter in January.

J&M Lifestyles Has New Website J&M Lifestyles, a full service concrete design and fabrication studio, has launced a new website at www.jmlifestyles.com. The site features

a member area for designers, builders and architects that offers useful design tools.

as Wilsonart International Holdings, LLC. A fund

Cambria to Expand Production Plant

new free standing business to acquire a majority

Cambria, producer of quartz surfacing, is

ownership stake. Wilsonart’s business units

The expansion will more than double the size

and other surfacing materials and components

completion in the spring of 2013, the expanded

operates under the Wilsonart, Resopal, Polyrey and

additional 220 employees. Combined with

Partner, assumes the role of interim CEO.

the company’s continued design palette

managed by CD&R is investing $395 million in the ownership stake. ITW will retain an ongoing

expanding its Le Sueur, Minn., production plant.

manufacture and distribute high pressure laminates

and production capacity of Cambria. Slated for

with 2011 revenue of $1.1 billion. The company

plant will total 750,000 sq. ft. and employ an

Beginning Nov. 1, Formica started selling its solid

Arborite brands. Paul Pressler, a CD&R Operating

new technology, this expansion will accelerate

areas. According to the company, fabricators in

NRF Helping Hurricane Victims

development.

has made a superb choice in selecting Jim Hieb

to be executive vice president. I look forward to a

successful transition and helping Jim take the reins of this wonderful organization.”

Formica Announces Changes surface material directly to fabricators in select

Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky, as well as parts of Pennsylvania and Illinois, were among those included in this direct distribution program. Dubbed

FSS2U, this new distribution model facilitates direct sales to fabricator partners.

Additionally, Fletcher Building’s Laminates & Panels Division, which consists of 20 manufacturing facilities around the globe — including the

Formica Group of companies — named Paul

The National Remodeling Foundation (NRF) has established a fund to help rebuild homes along

Samsung Expands Radianz Quartz Distribution Network

the East Coast devastated by Hurricane Sandy

Samsung added Atlas Stone Distribution and

and is accepting donations of money and building materials to assist in the relief effort. All of the

Prestale Inc. as authorized distributors of

contributions will go toward restoring damaged

Radianz Quartz. Atlas Stone will distribute in

the greater Chicago area as well as Columbus,

homes and/or community buildings. Contact Mimi Altman at mimialtman@sbcglobal.net to donate or for more information.

Ohio. Prestale will distribute in Quebec.

Radianz now has distribution in more than 34 states plus Canada.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 11

In the Industry Schultz Forming Products Offers New Brochures with information about its solid surface and high

C.H. Briggs Lights Up MODA with Chandelier Donation

brochure covers the company’s Shultzform Solid

Design Atlanta (MODA)

Schultz Forming Products offers three brochures pressure laminate forming equipment. The first

Surface Oven and includes photos, features and specifications for the clamshell thermoforming

Saint-Gobain Provides Grenite Engineered Stone Countertops To YouthBuild Programs

oven. The second full-color brochure has

information on the Schultzform Solid Surface

Vacuum Former. It provides photos, features and

specs for both the larger Model SSVF12 former and

When the Museum of kicked off its Fall

Exhibition, The South’s Next Wave: Design

Challenge, guests were

delighted by a one-of-a-

kind chandelier designed

In support of its green education and job

the smaller Model SSVF8 equipment. The final two-

Engineered Stone Countertops and green building

Slotformer. The brochures are available from the

School and the Akron Summit Community

Integra Adhesives Launches New Online Features

this work of art to share with the architect and

Integra Adhesives launched a unique interactive

exhibition, the chandelier will be auctioned

training program, Saint-Gobain provides Grenite

page brochure offers information on the company’s

expertise to YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter

company upon request.

Action, Inc. (ASCA) YouthBuild Program in Akron, Ohio. YouthBuild programs help low-income

young people work toward high school diplomas and learn job skills by building affordable and sustainable housing in their communities.

color chart web page that allows fabricators to

build a custom color chart based on what material (from quartz, natural stone, solid surface, glass,

YouthBuild Philadelphia rehabbed a formerly

marble, ceramic and concrete) and brands they

seeking LEED certification from the U.S. Green

color or adhesive color and even select specific

Birch Prada, was installed in both kitchens. In

include cartridge size availabilities for each color,

vacant property into a two-family home, which is

fabricate. They can then sort the chart by sheet

Building Council (USGBC). Grenite, in the color

sheet colors they are working with. The charts also

addition, Saint-Gobain donated countertops to

an ASCA rehab project, a split-level five-bedroom home, which is also seeking a Platinum LEED certification from the USGBC.

MSI Expands, Names New Co-presidents M S International (MSI) expanded its operations in the Northeast. A newly constructed addition

includes an additional 35,000 sq. ft. of warehouse

between the 100 ml, fitting in a regular caulking gun and designed for field seams, standard 250 ml and cost-effective 500 ml, ideal for large projects. The charts can be found at www.integra-adhesives. com/colour-charts.

through a course

collaboration with the Savannah College of Art

and Design. C.H. Briggs, a distributor of interior and specialty building products, commissioned design community the creative possibilities of DuPont Corian as a design material. After the

off as part of a MODA fundraiser. The 5-ft.-tall chandelier was fabricated by West Chester,

Pa.-based fabricator MacLaren Fabrication. The Corian Illumination Series was chosen because of its translucency and unique thermoforming

properties. Opened to the public in November, the exhibition runs through March 31.

TOTO Honored with ‘Best in Business Class’ Award TOTO was recently recognized by the

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper as “Best in

Business Class.” The award was for TOTO’s

Additionally, the company has launched an

“significant effort and firm commitment to

new Web page, at www.integra-adhesives.com/

business sector by partnering with local

online color match guide for natural stone. The

reduce water use within the greater Atlanta

stonecollection/, allows fabricators to see more

governments and businesses to upgrade

than 180 samples of natural stone, matched with

outdated plumbing fixtures.” This is the

space dedicated to slab inventory. The slab

one of the 15 Natural Stone adhesive colors that are

distribution facility now totals 110,000 sq. ft.

part of Integra Optics collection.

Additionally, the company appointed Rajesh

Cilio Integrates with Constant Contact

environment organization lauded TOTO with its

Manufacturers using the Cilio Partners Portal can

“bottom-line commitment to the efficient use of

and Rupesh Shah as co-presidents. Rajesh and Rupesh have been working as executive vice

presidents of MSI for almost 10 years. In their new

roles, they will be responsible for the growth of the company through strategic thinking, developing

leaders, managing and expanding the distribution network, improving the supply chain and

continuing to build MSI’s product portfolio. Both

brothers will also be responsible for evaluating and executing new opportunities in the marketplace.

12 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

now seamlessly integrate Constant Contact with

the retail process, better understand and support

second accolade TOTO received from the

Riverkeeper in 2012. Earlier in the year the

“River Sustainability Award” for the company’s our limited water supplies.”

their fabricator and dealer networks, and build

Michael Eisner to Keynote IBS

incentives and promotions. In effect, the integration

the 2013 NAHB International Builders Show (IBS)

engine” for the manufacturer to share leads with

the Las Vegas Convention Center and Eisner,

new and enhance existing sales channels through

Michael Eisner will be the keynote speaker for

with Constant Contact creates a virtual “marketing

in January. The show runs from Jan. 22 to 24 at

and manage promotions and incentives to its fabricator and dealer networks.

former chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company for 21 years, will speak on Jan. 22.

CoCan Surfaces to Open Office in Atlanta Cocan Surfaces, a Chinese supplier of solid surface and cultured marble, is opening a branch office in the Atlanta area in April. The new facility, located in LaGran, Ga., will have a warehouse for displaying and stocking some of the company’s products, including solid surface panels, cultured marble products and shower pans.

New Colors, Patterns Featured in Latest MóZ Metals Brochure MóZ Designs introduced new color collections and patterns in the latest MóZ Metals brochure, available free from the company. The brochure can also be viewed online as a PDF on the MóZ website. It spotlights the company’s collections of hand-etched

and painted decorative metals in aluminum, perforated aluminum, corrugated aluminum and stainless steel.

The newest additions to the MóZ Metals color line, the Neutrals Collection and expanding Blendz Series, are presented in detail. The brochure showcases installations in commercial, hospitality, retail, transportation and other public areas.

Global Vacuum Presses Hires New Sales Manager Global Vacuum Presses appointed a new sales manager, Patrice Montignier. Montignier is responsible for the company’s national and international sales department.

Cosentino Sponsors ASID Activities Cosentino North America, supplier of quartz and natural stone surfaces, enhanced its alliance with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

The company has initiated a number of opportunities for students and professionals to help enrich their careers and education within the architecture and design community. Cosentino sponsored a trip for ASID members to its global headquarters in Almeria, Spain, where they toured the expansive facility to see how Silestone is made.

Cosentino also launched the student-focused ASID internship program, is an industry partner at the ASID Real World Design Week, and served as an official sponsor of the second annual ASID Go PRO: NYC.

ACS Announces REVIT Families Catalog Release Advanced Cabinet Systems (ACS), an Indiana-based plastic laminate casework and store fixture manufacturer, launched a REVIT Families catalog.

The catalog was made to meet the changing demands of technology in the architectural community.

REVIT is building information modeling (BIM) software that encompasses both 3-D modeling and 2-D drafting capabilities. The models that REVIT produces are considered to be “intelligent” models, as they represent real physical, working building components. Essentially the building is built on-screen with all of the kinks worked out before the first brick is laid. Once built, all REVIT components from the drawing that are placed in the actual building can be tracked over time.“REVIT Families are similar to AutoCAD Blocks, only the capabilities of REVIT provide a much more realistic representation that will be active throughout the lifespan of a building,” said Kyle Rennaker, REVIT engineer at ACS. “With REVIT Families from ACS, Architects and Designers will be able to integrate our products directly into their drawings.”

Circle RS#03 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 13

Solid Surface in

By Chuck Sawyer I recently had the opportunity to visit Moscow and St. Petersburg and explore the Russian world of solid surface. The weather was great, the people were awesome, and my trip was the experience of a lifetime.

The objective of my visit was to conduct business with Akrilika, one of Russia’s leading providers of solid surface, and to explore the possibilities of starting a branch of ISFA in the region. The trip was prompted by a meeting with two executives from Akrilika, who had been in the United States earlier this year to visit fabricators and attend the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Chicago.

While there, the representatives of Akrilika and I had the opportunity to meet with Mike Nolan, ISFA’s director of education, to discuss the concept and benefits of ISFA, especially in the area of fabricator training, and that resulted in an invitation to visit the company on its home turf.

Akrilika Akrilika (www.akrilika.com) is one of the top three or four providers of solid surface in Russia. The company was started in 1993 as a supplier of automotive paint and began its experience in surfacing as a DuPont Corian distributor. About five years ago the company began offering its own brand of solid surfacing. Headquartered in Moscow, with branch offices in St. Petersburg and Kazan, Akrilika has an extensive network of dealers throughout Russia, claiming to provide material for 20,000 kitchens a year. The company has a full line of products with 150 colors, including the Kristall and Design groups providing unique aesthetics. Recently they have introduced the Deco brand of decorative relief panels with engineered solutions including

14 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

LED lighting packages, finished wood trim and mounting systems. In addition to solid surface, Akrilika also offers tools and tooling from Festool, Bessey and other major brands.

Akrilika is proud of its 5-star approach to business with a particular emphasis on technology and training. Three full-time employees participate in the training process for the company’s fabricator customers. Along with certification training provided at central locations, Akrilika conducts training throughout Russia with the cooperation of its dealer network. As the provider of Festool products, Akrilika has forged an alliance with Festool that also allows them to offer training at Festool’s new state-of-the-art facility in Russia.

Festool Festool’s (www.festool-usa.com) facility is located just outside of Moscow. The location is in an industrial park dedicated to German companies doing business in Russia. The facility contains a showroom, training rooms, a complete shop for demonstration and training, conference rooms, offices, service area and warehouse.

While I was there, the site was the location of a full-day program in solid surface

tooling technology, attended by more than 30 fabricators. At the top of the agenda was a presentation on the benefits of membership in ISFA, and there was wide interest in developing a branch in Russia.

Fabrication in Russia One of the aspects of Russian fabrication that is interesting is that, in general, there is a preference for finishes that are of a higher sheen than the common finishes in the United States. As an example, a typical “matte” finish in Russia might be accomplished with these grits: P80, P150, P220, P320, P400, P500, P800 and P1000. Part of the training at Festool was a demonstration and some hands-on experience with developing a gloss finish on dark solid surface products.

My new friend, Sergei Rachkov, from Akrilika demonstrated his recommendations for finishing a black solid surface. His command of the process has led me to name him “Tsar of Finishing” in Russia!

The fabrication shops that I visited are an interesting mix of old methods blended with a thirst

More than 30 fabricators turned out for the training sessions at the new Festool facility outside of Moscow. to integrate new processes and technologies.

Virtually all shops had some capacity for thermoforming, from a basic jig utilizing a handheld heat gun to a state-of-the-art membrane vacuum press. Laser cut artwork/photos and LED features were prevalent. Shop facilities were usually located in industrial parks, many having been converted from Soviet-era government buildings. At one material warehouse I was amazed to look in one direction and see pallets of solid surfacing, while turning around to see some mothballed missiles and parts of the Soviet space shuttle in another. Unbelievable!

There is still quite a bit of hand work as compared to the typical shop in the United States. The use of CNC equipment is rare; however, the rate of growth of the solid surface industry is accelerating to the point where the quest for efficiencies will likely drive more CNC use in the future. I see many similarities in the state of the countertop business in Russia with the way things were in the United States in the mid to late ’80s.

One big difference is that many of the Russian

shops have developed business outside the boundaries of countertops. It will be interesting to see how the market for solid surface (they call it “artificial stone”) evolves over the next five to 10 years.

is a player in supplying the fast food industry. Not only do they fabricate solid surfacing, but they also have expertise in furniture, cabinetmaking, upholstery and metal working. Their scope of work is not unlike the typical “décor vendor” in the United States that supplies a variety of fast food related products to that industry.

Many of the hand tools used at Askold are Festool products, including the circular saw and rail system (with Gecko suction clamps), routers, sanders and dust extractors. It uses Bessey PS55 solid surface seaming tools (suction seam clamps) for pulling seams. Bar clamps are commonly used for edge buildups. Typically in Russia, “Baltic birch” type plywood is used for support strips. It is actually a less expensive option than MDF! Located in a repurposed Soviet-era military facility, Stonecom (www.stonecom.ru) was the second shop we visited. One of its features was a shopbuilt thermoforming oven that is used for both residential and commercial business. The company was working on a large retail fixture project. It had also just completed a project using solid surface cabinets and tops for a fast food client.

Fabrication company Prima, like other Russian fabricators, manufactures standard and custom sinks from sheet material through a process of fabrication and thermoforming. The company’s bowl press is hand-operated.

On its website Stonecom publishes standard countertop pricing for various products plus the cost for a number of accessories, delivery and installation. By the way, Stonecom accepts Master Card and Visa.

Started in 1994, Storm (www.storm-spb.ru) is one of the oldest fabricators in Russia. From museums, theaters and casinos to residential kitchens and apartment projects, the designers and fabricators at Storm have quite a portfolio of completed projects. Along with the traditional countertop business, they have created various parts for equipment and electronics manufacturers, including a solid surface module for card readers that are used in turnstiles around the world.

This shop in St. Petersburg is a bit larger than others I visited, but it still has that feeling of a U.S. shop in the ’80s or early ’90s. Storm does use a sliding table saw for cutting sheets. Since space

The Shops The first shop we visited was Askold (www.askold-a.ru), a 5-year-old company situated in a Moscow industrial area. Although the shop was small by U.S. standards, the company

Many fabricators in Russia also work outside of the countertop market. Restone’s interactive video monitor fixture is one of its showcase pieces. For the most part, it is fabricated using basic technology with hand tools and ingenuity.

One technique much more common in Russia than the United States is trimming excess material with a (Festool) circular saw and rail system.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 15

Prima highlights its intricate inlay capabilities in its showroom, which is inside of a larger furniture mart.

Quartz fabrication is largely done with hand tools, which is profitable because of the high price associated with the product, and material handling equipment is nearly nonexistent, as workers do all of the material manipulation by hand. monitor fixture is one of its showcase pieces.

Constructed of solid surface, it is both a piece

of sculpture and an engineering challenge. And, for the most part, it is fabricated using basic technology with hand tools and ingenuity.

The company uses all the normal hand tools, plus a sliding table saw for cutting full sheets. It has a

large metal lathe that is used for creating molds, a pin router for trimming custom-made bowls and a

molder outfitted with a saw blade for trimming the

thermoformed piece of the monitor fixture. Restone has also established a special finishing room for high-finish, polishing and other specialty work.

ISFA in Russia Storm is one of the oldest fabricators in Russia and had one of the largest solid surface shops in St. Petersburg.

The solid surfacing industry in Russia has the

is at a premium, sheets are stored vertically, as in

development, there is a fabricator infrastructure

most shops I visited.

My first visit to Prima (www.spbprima.ru) was

at its showroom location within a large furniture

pieces. The 20 or so employees work in a number of small workrooms with standard hand tools.

Major cuts are made with a Festool rail system and circular saw.

potential to be huge. Although it is early in its ready to take advantage of the growth

opportunities that lie ahead. At training sessions in Moscow, St. Petersburg and the Festool

mart. The space featured routed carving and

Toward the rear of the facility is a quartz fabrication

Center, we presented the concepts and benefits

surfacing. Following some discussions about the

was routing and polishing a quartz kitchen top.

And the response was excellent.

inlays, vanity and countertop displays and quartz techniques they use for inlays, we drove to the company’s fabrication shop.

The first stop was their pride-and-joy CNC

machine, which was hard at work producing a drainboard in a kitchen countertop. Although

smaller than what we might see in the United States, this machine is a workhorse. I could

shop. Working with hand tools, a crew of three

of ISFA to a range of fabricators and suppliers.

In Russia, quartz is still very expensive so the

Over the next year, ISFA will be assisting the

labor-intensive process can still be profitable. The amazing part is that there is no material handling

equipment except for some small carts. The slabs are unloaded by hand and wheeled into the shop

area. From there, they are manhandled for the rest of the fabrication process.

also not help but notice a hand-operated press

Restone (www.restone.ru) is a company facing

other Russian fabricators, Prima manufactures

on the casino industry, but recent regulations

used for manufacturing bathroom sinks. Like standard and custom sinks from sheet

material through a process of fabrication and

thermoforming. The company had made their

own thermoforming oven, plus they use electric/ silicone heat strips for thermoforming edge

16 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

transition. Much of its previous work was focused

fabricators of Russia in becoming ISFA members and establishing a strong ISFA network in that

country. They are excited about sharing training

techniques and fabrication processes with other ISFA members worldwide. With the help of

Festool, Akrilika and other potential associate members, we believe that ISFA-Russia will

become a strong and active part of the ISFA family.

tops, but its history has given the company

The author would like to thank Basix International, Akrilika and Festool for their generous support, without which his trip to Russia would not have been possible.

thermoforming. Restone’s interactive video

For more information contact Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org.

in Russia have all but eliminated that. Now it’s

involved with manufacturing kitchen and bathroom an advantage in creative use of materials and

Preview of Coming Attractions Coming soon to your neighborhood…

ISFA is currently engaged in the development of a program to revolutionize our Total Fabrication Training!

Under the leadership of ISFA Education Director Mike Nolan, a team of experienced educators is creating a new program that will result in a group of ISFA-approved trainers that will be able to provide fabrication training on a regional or local basis.

With course modules developed by the ISFA team, we will be able to offer customized training at your shop.

To participate in the development of this program or for questions about this program please contact: Mike Nolan, Education Director, mike@isfanow.org or INTERN ATION AL SURFACE FABRIC AT ORS ASSOCIATION

Chuck Sawyer, Executive Director, cksawyer@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#31 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 17

Management Matters From the desk of Jon Olson

Answering Architect’s Frequently Asked Questions About Solid Surface Many architects are

becoming interested in using solid surface in their

designs. With this interest comes many questions, and providing answers is important. Architects need to know how solid surface will respond,

recognizing its properties and diversity of usage.

However, using it in an application that doesn’t fit its capabilities can lead to disastrous results.

What follows is a list of some of the questions

asked along with some starting points for accurate replies. Some questions will seem simple to a

fabricator because they work with the product day in and day out, but architects need to familiarize themselves thoroughly with solid surface before

3. Can solid surface be bent or shaped?

7. Can solid surface be joined to other

called thermoforming in which it is heated and then

All material expands and contracts at different

Yes solid surface can be shaped using a process bent or molded to a specific shape. However, all

solid surface is not created equal in this respect.

Solid surface made with acrylic has greater

thermoforming ability. Solid surface with polyester

content can be thermoformed, but the capabilities are restricted.

4. Can I have a custom color made?

While there are hundreds of colors of solid surface when you look at products from a variety of

different manufacturers, sometimes the exact one

materials?

rates. The same is true of solid surface. Most

solid surfaces expand and contract 1/8 in. every 10 ft. The key to bonding solid surface to other

material is to know the limitations and choose the proper design and bonding agent. The adhesive

used should have good elasticity. This allows for movement. Some surfaces that bond well are

metal, glass and granite. With any design, looking

at the application is the first step to understanding if dissimilar materials can work together.

needed is not available, leading an architect to

8. Can solid surface be used outside?

Fabricators can also use these questions to

question is yes. Some manufacturers will go so

how solid surface has been used on building

architects.

Others require a minimum quantity before they will

playgrounds and other outdoor applications.

much higher for custom colors. And making just

be done outside, though there are a few points

much more expensive than 100 sheets.

Effects of the sun — There can be some fading

they can utilize it effectively.

tweak their sales presentations to better appeal to 1. What is solid surface made of?

Solid surface is most commonly a man-made

material consisting of an ATH (alumina trihydrate) filler bound together by resin, which is typically

want something custom. The short answer to this far as to make just one sheet of a custom color.

cladding, benches, countertops, signs, furniture,

go through this process. The cost will obviously be

Virtually anything that has been done indoors can

one sheet of a custom color will also typically be

worth considering:

acrylic, polyester or an acrylic/polyester blend. ATH

5. Can I get a solid surface sink in something

form of clay.

Manufacturers normally stick to solid colors for

is a derivative of bauxite ore, which is basically a 2. What are the standard sheet sizes and thicknesses of solid surface?

The standard sheet size in the industry is ½ in. thick by 30 in. wide by 145 in. long. Sheet thicknesses, though, do come in steps of ¼ in., 3/8 in., ½ in.,

¾ in., 2 cm (about 5/6 in.) and 3 cm (roughly 1 ¼

in.). It’s worth noting that when you leave the ½ in. thickness standard you will generally have fewer color choices.

Yes, it can. There are many case studies explaining

other than a solid color?

sinks. However, there are fabricators with the ability to thermoform vanity bowls into many different

colors. Other fabricators can custom make trough sinks, kitchen bowls, etc.

Another process used by some manufacturers is to pour the raw material in its liquid state into molds

for a particular bowl shape. This enables the use of different colors. If you want a mold made, though, the cost can be quite high.

similar to what you would find in other outdoor

materials. The key is to pick a color that will fade

minimally, based on the manufacturer’s accelerated weathering tests.

Hot to touch — Have you ever touched playground equipment on a hot summer day? On sunny days,

solid surface gets warm like other materials. Proper education to the end use is advised.

Maintaining integrity of the panels (cladding projects) — If not applied correctly serious

structural issues can result. A well-thought-out structural plan is needed for cladding projects.

Solid surface is making headlines. Its ability to

6. What types of finishes can I get?

work well with so many different designs makes it

semigloss and high gloss. Any of the finishes

up to us, as fabricators, to make sure we have the

Many manufacturers will accommodate custom

thumb is the darker the color the more glossy the

About the Author:

cost-effective to do so, and some companies have

ways to achieve the finishes. All begin with using

can benefit from custom sheet sizes.

requires buffing pads.

Sheet sizes in ½ in., ¾ in., 2cm and 3cm can

generally range from 120 in. to 144 in. long. Sheet

sizes in ¼-in. stocks can range in size from widths of 30, 36, 48, and 60 in. wide by 96 in. long.

Generally there are three types of finishes: matte,

a perfect choice for architects and designers. It’s

can be applied to any color. The general rule of

answers architects may ask.

sizes if they see the project as desirable or it is

finish should be to enhance it. There are different

specific programs just for commercial projects that

sandpaper. A high gloss involves more work and

18 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Jon Olson is the online marketing, sales and communications manager at Sterling Surfaces/Kitchen Associates in Sterling, Mass. A solid surface fabricator for more than 30 years, he can be reached at jon@sterlingsurfaces.com.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 19

A SURFACE FIT FOR A

KING

The project of renovating a portion of Versailles into a history gallery was broken into three portions, all three of which involved solid surface.

20 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

CREA Diffusion Installs Solid Surface in the Palace of Versailles

By Kevin Cole, Editor

When one thinks of the Palace of Versailles, royalty and opulence often come to mind. Over time it has not only been the seat of power in France, but also the home to several of France’s kings. However, “contemporary” is not a word traditionally associated with it — until perhaps now that a portion of it has been made over using DuPont Corian solid surface.

Eleven rooms covering more than 7,500 sq. ft. were recently transformed into the new Palace of Versailles History Gallery, which focuses on the history of the palace from its beginnings in 1624 to its renovation by Louis-Philippe I, who founded the Museum of the History of France within Versailles in the 19th century.

The design, which was developed by the Paris-based Projectiles Architectural Studio, is a unique blend of the classical and contemporary that mingles old-world style with cutting edge materials, technologies and techniques to create a stunning upgrade to this treasure of European art and history. Internationally renowned fabrication firm CREA Diffusion, based in Solgne, France, was hired to handle the fabrication and installation of the 16,000 sq. ft. of solid surfacing used in the venture.

The project basically divided the rooms into three areas: the lower, middle and upper sections, each of which solid surface had a role (see Lead-in Photo).

The Lower Section For the lower section of the rooms, the original wall paneling that dates back to the 1800s was repainted and remains in place. However unique solid surface boxes are attached to the panels in a variety of sizes based on the area of the paneling to which they are assigned (see Figure 1). These boxes house lighting that both illuminate

the paintings they are under and also backlight information inscribed in them about each of the exhibits. “All of the boxes are of different dimensions,” explained Thierry Delles, owner of CREA. “This gives an impression of volume and also prevents visitors from getting too close to the paintings.

The Middle Section The main section of walls is now clad in 8-mm-thick (about 1/3-in.) Pearl Grey Corian that was engraved with a different pattern for each room corresponding to a different historical period, which replaces the tapestries that used to cover the walls.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 21

Figure 2 – All of the wall panels were engraved with different patterns corresponding to different historical periods based on what room they were in. The engraving began at the top of the wall and diminished in depth as it went lower.

Figure 1 – Solid surface light boxes were installed on the lower wall to accomplish 3 main objectives; Illuminate the paintings; offer information about the exhibits via backlit inscriptions; and serve to prevent the public from getting too close to the priceless works of art.

The patterns have been slightly reinterpreted in order to create a sort of continuous wall painting, and a whole new style of engraving was created by the Change Is Good graphic studio just for this project. The engraving starts at the top, and both the depth of the engravings and the width of them diminish as it moves down the walls (see Figure 2).

And while the engraving technique affords precise splendor, it makes for a very slow process for the fabricator.

Figure 3 – Installing panels with such intricate and exact patterning without damaging the engraving was a bit of a challenge. CREA Diffusion overcame that by cutting the panels into sections with “puzzle-shaped” edges.

22 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

To engrave a single linear meter of the wall (about 3 ¼ ft.) using CNC machinery took half a day. The time to engrave all of the wall material, if the process ran nonstop, would take four months. And beyond this, installing the paneling with such intricate and exact patterning also posed something of a challenge. “The engraving’s depth is not the same from the beginning to the end,”

explained Delles. “We started with a depth of 3 mm until the graphic disappears. So we had to find some technique to assemble the panel without destroying the engraving. To do that, we cut the panel into puzzle-shaped sections (see Figure 3).”

Another challenge was to actually hang the 1- by 2-meter (about 3 ¼- by 6 ½-ft.) panels firmly on the walls once they were engraved and cut. Thankfully, CREA Diffusion has vast experience with exterior cladding, so came up with a solution by using a system of aluminum frames that were affixed to the palace walls (see Figure 4).

Figure 4 – A system of aluminum frames were affixed to the palace walls to hold the panels in place.

Figure 5 – One wall included an engraving of the family tree of the Burbons, which contained 15 portraits backlit to allow the faces of each to be seen in a sort of 3-D effect.

Figure 6 – Creating the engraved family tree took 165 hours, not counting sanding and installation time.

Fifteen portraits are engraved in Glacier Ice Corian and attached to a panel of Pearl Grey Corian.

Backlighting behind the panels allows the faces of each to be seen in a sort of 3-D effect.

After the solid surface panels were put in place and seamed

together, the paintings and other displays are then affixed directly

to them. One characteristic of solid surface that made it particularly

suited for the application was the ability to invisibly repair holes in it when paintings were to be replaced or rearranged.

One wall also included an engraving of the family tree of the

Burbons, which was even more complex, and significantly slower, than the patterns (see Figure 5). Fifteen portraits are engraved in Glacier Ice Corian and attached to a panel of Pearl Grey Corian.

Backlighting behind the panels allows the faces of each to be seen in a sort of 3-D effect. Thanks to a light put behind each portrayal we can see properly the face. “The time to program [the CNC

machine] to do just one portrait was very long,” said Delles. “We

needed five hours for the programming and another eight hours to perform the actual machining.”

That adds up to 45 hours of programming time and another 120 hours of machine time in total. And that doesn’t account for the time to sand and seam the engravings into the main panels or install them (see Figure 6).

The Lighting The third and final section of the project was the creation of large

chandelier-like housing for the lighting in each room. These were also

made of Corian using the same pattern for the specific room in which they were to hang (see Figure 7A). “We used the same process to

engrave the lights, which hang in the center of the room by the aid

of four cables,” Delles explained. “But for the design of the lights we

used 6-mm-thick (about ¼-in.) solid surface, so it was more difficult to engrave.”

The lights are of different sizes, based on the size of the room in which they are hanging and the contents of that room, but on average weigh

Figure 7A – Large chandeliers made of solid surface engraved in the same patterns as the wall panels hang from each of the rooms. On average they weigh about 1,100 lbs.

Figure 7B – The chandeliers not only house lighting, but in some cases also contain audio/video projectors and security equipment. Additionally, a portion of them is motorized to slide down and open up so that maintenance can be performed on them.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 23

“It was very strange to work alongside other work that was several centuries old. Our employees felt the history of their ancestor craftsmen.”

about 500 kg (about 1,100 lbs.) They are designed to allow more light to come from the top of the fixtures, roughly equivalent to daylight, while light flowing downward passes through a screen on the bottom softening it.

Figure 8 – The immense project used 16,000 sq. ft. of solid surface, which had to be hoisted into the building using a crane system. When completed, the solid surface portion of the project took more than 12,000 man-hours.

And while the chandeliers appear to be relatively simple boxes to the casual observer, there is much more to them than meets the eye. Not only is there lighting housed within the body of the chandelier; in some cases there are parts of the security system and, in the multimedia rooms, audio/video projectors. “These are not just simple lights,” said Delles. “Thanks to a motorized system, the interior portion of the light slides down to allow the maintenance of the parts located inside (see Figure 7B).”

All of the lighting is wired into a central digital control unit that can allow them to be brightened or dimmed manually. However, thanks to a series of photovoltaic cells discreetly integrated into the facade, the lights also automatically adapt to the natural light variations entering the rooms through large windows overlooking the garden, keeping a constant level of illumination.

Working Alongside History In June of 2012 the facility opened to the public, and millions are expected to visit in the years ahead.

All in all, the entire project, not just the solid surface portion, cost 1.5 million euros (more than $1.9 million). In terms of just the solid surface work, 16,000 sq. ft. of solid surface was used, and it took 2,150 planning/study hours, 5,850 fabrication manpower hours and 4,200 installation manpower hours — an immense project for any fabricator (see Figure 8).

But time and effort weren’t the only things that determined the immensity of this work; working in a place of such historical and cultural significance to the entire world also carried a lot of gravity.

“It was very strange to work alongside other work that was several centuries old,” relayed Delles. “Our employees felt the history of their ancestor craftsmen. They thought if they had lived during the building of the castle maybe they could be chosen by the king….”

For more information, visit www.crea-diffusion.com. Editor Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#04 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

24 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Grassroots

Gatherings The Classic ISFA Events for Participation & Networking The heartbeat of ISFA is the energy of our members. Mark your calendars—2013 will be a year to remember! ISFA is planning a series of gatherings filled with fellowship, education, networking and fun.

TAMPA – March 23 LOS ANGELES – April 13 ATLANTA – May 11 BOSTON – July 13 CINCINNATI – September 21 SEATTLE – October 19 Get Involved!

We need your help to make these events the best that they can be.

For more information or to volunteer for the Grassroots Gathering Committee in your area, please contact ISFA at gatherings@isfanow.org.

If you are an associate member interested in sponsoring or displaying at these events, please contact ISFA at support@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#32 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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Inbound Marketing

What it means and why it is important to you, the countertop fabricator

By Russ Lee Have you heard of inbound marketing or permission marketing? They are relatively new terms because they are children of the Internet, and they

imply a new environment of resistance to intrusive sales messages getting

Companies that blog have 97% more inbound links.

beamed at us from all directions. It’s about drawing people into your circle

97%

of influence because they are interested in what you are doing and what

you are talking about. In very real terms, it’s the exact opposite of the “cold call.” And it has, potentially, direct application to anyone in the countertop industry.

“We think of it as getting people to talk about a topic that we care about,

without interrupting their day,” said Harry Hollander of Moraware, describing his company’s strategic foray into inbound marketing. “It’s like providing

something useful to them instead of just creating an ad or telling them to buy

our stuff. The guiding principle with all the content we produce is it should be

AVG. # OF LINKS WITH A BLOG

AVG. # OF LINKS WITHOUT A BLOG

something valuable so that when you read it you learn something.”

When Moraware first entered the countertop industry in 2002, it

concentrated heavily on trade shows and print advertising to educate and

inform potential customers about its scheduling and estimating software. As recognition and adoption of the product grew, the company began to enjoy the benefits of word-of-mouth advertising.

“Now it appears to be a very strong upswing of people finding us by

searching on the Web [www.moraware.com],” Hollander explained. “We are

SOURCE: HUBSPOT, STATE OF INBOUND MARKETING LEAD GENERATION REPORT, 2010

70% of the links search users click on are organic—not paid.

OTHER* 5%

getting people from places we didn’t know to look before. With traditional

marketing we know how to reach the people who read trade magazines and attend trade shows. But they only represent a small percentage of all the

countertop fabricators out there. And we want to hit that other, much bigger

group that is not as engaged in the industry. Those are the people who seem to be searching the Internet for information.”

PAID 25% ORGANIC 70%

A few years ago Moraware began to shift its marketing resources gradually into online activities, such as publishing a blog on its website, email

marketing, newsletters, converting help questions into useful content and setting up centers of information where fabricators were most likely to

congregate (i.e., RemnantSwap.com). All this online activity has a direct

influence on the major search engines, which then rank the company highly when people search for answers to questions unique to the countertop industry.

“What we have found with all the articles we have done on the blog, on

Facebook and on Twitter is those have ongoing value,” Hollander explained.

*INCLUDES NON-TRADITIONAL ORGANIC RESULTS, SUCH AS SHOPPING LINKS, LOCAL RESULTS, NEWS, ETC. SOURCE: MARKETINSHERPA

“I really think the concept applies to fabricators as well,” Hollander argued.

“The problem is the payoff is long term and it’s hard to justify it at the

“As soon as someone searches for countertop fabricator software, we rank

beginning. But if you think about the fact that people are going to buy a

will continue to find us today from an article we published a year ago.”

remind them you are there and you are doing interesting things. You are

Applying Inbound Marketing To Your Fabrication Business

they know where they can go. If you have that kind of credibility — being the

really well in Google. That content stays on the Web basically forever. People

One might argue that Moraware’s marketing position is much different

from that of a typical fabricator’s because the software company is a B2B

countertop only once or twice in their lifetimes, you just need to constantly educating those consumers so that when they are ready to make a purchase, source of information — it really does make a huge difference.”

(business to business) company, whereas most fabricators sell to the public

Brian Halligan of HubSpot, credited with inventing the term “inbound

work for a fabricator. “Not so,” said Hollander.

businesses that deal with high-dollar products, long research cycles and

or to wholesale customers. Thus, what might work for Moraware might not 26 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

marketing,” argues that this type of marketing is especially effective for small

OR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR Five Tips for •a FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR Successful Blog ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR Fabricator THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR knowledge-based products. Consumers of these products, such as countertops, are

much more likely to get informed and hire someone who demonstrates expertise in the field, than respond to an ad or direct mail piece.

In other words, when Mrs. Jones wants

to get a new countertop, she is going to

do research on that product — usually on the Web — before approaching a vendor for a quote. If your company already has content out there providing answers to her questions, and you are within her

geographic area, chances are very good the search engines will put your articles in front of Mrs. Jones because of the

topical nature of the content and your

geographical relevance. The net result is,

just by publishing some useful content for Mrs. Jones to do her research, you are

positioned as the authority on the subject.

Who wouldn’t want to walk into a sales call with that kind of background?

Good News/Bad News

Content: Talk about what your customer wants to know.

Material attributes, colors, wearability, design possibilities, back story (the “lore” of the materials) are all great — and interesting — fodder for blog posts. Be sure to make the connection between the features of your products and services and how they can benefit the end user in every article.

but you do it at your own pace. We

have just seen the more you do with

this stuff, the more people find you on the Web.”

Interestingly enough, the folks at

Moraware have come to find that

Keep it Short: 500 words is just about the upper end limit.

If you find yourself going way over this limit, break the article into smaller posts and spread them out over time.

what most people might consider a

major thorn in the side for a software company, namely a help line, has

Keywords: Most likely you have optimized your website for certain specific keywords. Use those keywords often in the content of your posts. Keep in mind, however, that branded keywords, such as your company name, are less effective in a blog. By providing really good information without the ads, readers will come to trust what you have to say even more.

turned into a valuable source of

Use Good Photos: One or two high-quality photos are perfect.

we do it in video because video always

content for inbound marketing.

“People ask for help with a specific

technical problem,” Hollander explained.

“But there is always a bigger picture.

So we do a specific help article and

seems to rank really highly in Google, and it’s easier for a lot of people to

Link Content: You earn credibility with readers and points with the search engines when you insert text links within the body of your post to relevant content on your website or elsewhere. Don’t worry about giving someone else a little credit for content they have generated. Your readers will appreciate your even-handed treatment of the subject.

So, what to do? Most experts suggest

watch a video than to read an article.

We do a blog post that provides context around why the question is an issue in

the first place. So we have taken some random help question and turned it

into at least three kinds of content. That

same content also becomes part of our

the first step toward inbound marketing is

newsletter, Facebook and Twitter.”

word is “consistently.” That tells the search engines you are actively engaged

Do you see the connection? Countertop fabricators can turn some of their

With time, your organic rankings will rise, weighted by geographic relevance,

that your customers care about, those articles will surface one day on the

researching “Maintaining a Granite Countertop.” At the same time, your blog

You Are In The Education Business

publishing a blog that is updated consistently with new content. The key in the countertop business and that you are an authority on the subject.

most challenging issues into content for a blog. And because they are issues

and your content will soon be served up to all the Mrs. Joneses in your area

Web, and they will get read by a likely prospect.

should be supported with posts on Facebook and Twitter, which could be simply links to your latest blog articles.

As an inbound marketer you are really an educator. You provide community members with useful information about countertops they can use to help

That’s the bad news. Everyone knows it’s hard work to write a blog,

them make a decision or to resolve a problem. And, as the expert authority,

of very relevant comments to make, comments that hundreds of potential

providing the products and services people are researching.

especially when you have nothing to say. The good news is you have a lot

your company is much more likely to be viewed as the “go-to” resource for

customers in your area want to read, if you can only think in terms of what

“The ROI is there,” said Hollander, talking about his company’s investment

THEY want to know.

in inbound marketing. “I’m not sure how we measure it, but it feels right.

The truth is you do it every day in your showroom, in the customer’s living

We have done surveys with our customers, and the results confirm that a

attributes of each of your products, tips on how to care for a countertop, the

the Web than through traditional marketing channels. We are trying to find

etc., etc. And do it in a series of very short (about 500 words) blog posts at

Getting the word out to a much larger audience and education seems to be

room and on the phone. Tell the story of your technology, the amazing

much higher percentage of our clients are introduced to Moraware through

back story of exotic colors, how to select the right color combinations, etc.,

all those fabricators who are not in our current circle of people we talk to.

regular intervals.

the best way to do that. It makes it a lot more fun, too.”

“It’s hard to do a blog,” conceded Harry Hollander, “and it’s not free. You

Editor’s Note: An example of an inbound marketing article that ran on Moraware’s website immediately follows this article.

have to identify someone within your organization who has the talent and interest, or you have to hire it out. Our goal up until a couple months ago

was to do an article every week. We switched that to two times a week, and next year, hopefully, that will be daily. Without dipping our toes in the water, we wouldn’t have come to this realization. So we had to start somewhere,

About the Author:

Russ Lee is president of sitesNsolutions.com, which provides Internet solutions for the decorative surfacing industry — specializing in inbound marketing content generation and enhancing a company’s Web presence. He may be reached at (801) 735-7606 or russ@sitesNsolutions.com.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 27

OR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR

Fabricator Profile: KB

Surfaces

By Russ Lee Editor’s Note: The following article, originally published on Moraware.com, is an example of inbound marketing as discussed in the article immediately preceding this one.

Try to think of the least likely path to

co-ownership of a stone fabrication business and, chances are, Tracey Beck can top it.

Originally trained as a mobile services rep

specializing in routing 800 numbers for large companies, Beck quit her job several years

ago to be a stay-at-home mom. “That was the

intention,” she said. “But I started going crazy.”

The family business, KB Laminates, was

purchased by Baer Supply, which began her trek

down the path that ultimately led to KB Surfaces.

“Everyone in the family derived their income

from KB Laminates,” she explained. “We were all

wondering what we were going to do. Fortunately, my husband, Brian, signed a five-year contract with Baer, which meant we had a few years to

plan our future. So, we decided to open the first medical spa in Rhode Island.”

Say what?

It turns out the Becks had encountered the

concept of the medical spa while visiting the

West Coast, and they thought it a great idea for

This residential kitchen countertop project features Cambria’s “Victoria” engineered stone and a modern undermount stainless steel sink with bowls of differing sizes. their neck of the woods. So, it seems, did others — once the business was up and running, that is. At about the five year mark a local physician purchased the company.

That focus on customer service means everyone in the company is trained to think like the customer. Sharing product information is essential.

Maintaining quality and delivering on time are critical.

And, if there is a problem, they find a way to fix it.

Into The Fire “On the day I sold the spa, my husband called and said, ‘Don’t panic, but I’m at an auction,’”

The serving counter at this ice cream business shows brightly in “White Carrerra” marble.

28 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Tracey recalled. “He called later and said, ‘Panic.

I just bought a stone company.’”

This residential bathroom installation features a double vanity in “Giallo Ornamental” granite with a pencil edge.

OR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICA

By this time Brian’s contract with Baer had been renewed, which meant the responsibility for

running the day-to-day operations of the new

company (which was in receivership when they

bought it, by the way) fell on Tracey’s shoulders.

“At first I was just going to do sales and

marketing,” she said, “but since they kept

renewing my husband’s contract, there I was — running the business. But the reality is, all

businesses are similar. That said, we don’t run this like a typical stone fabrication shop: It is

a sales and marketing organization. We pay a

lot of attention to the financials. And, above all,

customer service is our most important activity.”

This commercial project at a public library features counters done in “Prairie” Corian solid surface.

Just about any skill can be taught, but you can’t teach good work ethic, good follow-up skills and good customer skills.

That focus on customer service means

everyone in the company is trained to think

like the customer. Sharing product information is essential. Maintaining quality and delivering on time are critical. And, if there is a problem,

they find a way to fix it. “That’s when you find out how important your attitude for customer service really is,” Tracey explained. “Our

customers know when there is a problem we take care of it. When you build a long-term

relationship, there is an understanding. They

In this residential kitchen project, the countertop and island feature “Colonial Gold” granite with a 3/8-in. radius.

know we’ll make it right. If it’s their fault, we’ll work it out over several jobs. But, we have to

know whom we are dealing with. That’s why we choose our customers very carefully.”

No Retail About 60 percent of KB Surface’s business

comes from wholesale customers — kitchen

and bath dealers, contractors and designers.

The other 40 percent is commercial. They don’t sell any retail. The company has 10 employees

and installs the equivalent of around 20 kitchens per week, plus commercial. They not only offer

natural stone, but also fabricate quartz surfacing, as the only certified Cambria fabricator in

Rhode Island. Located in the same building is Atlas Fabrication, a solid surface fabrication

shop owned by Ken Beck, Brian’s brother and

The Meadowlands bathroom reflects the glow in Caesarstone “Blizzard” with a pencil edge and a 4-in. apron.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 29

FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOHE FABRICATOR

This custom-made desk features a distressed look and full bullnose edge, and is fabricated out of “Antique Brown” granite. co-owner of KB Surfaces. Between the two companies, KB Surfaces offers virtually every kind of countertop solution to its customers.

And, the company goes out of its way to partner with suppliers who are family-oriented and who believe in Green practices.

“We really don’t promote ourselves,” Tracey said. “We don’t even have a sign on the building. Most of the business is word-ofmouth. We like to say we are the best kept secret in Rhode Island.”

But, that is about to change. Consistent with their goal to step away from day-today running of the business, the Becks are systematically building an infrastructure upon which the company can run itself.

That includes hiring outside sales reps, empowering their employees to take ownership of the business, keeping a strong focus on the financials and always looking for good people.

“Just about any skill can be taught, but you can’t teach good work ethic, good follow-up skills and good customer skills,” Tracey said.

So what is it like to be a female in a traditionally male-dominated industry? “Well, my nickname is The Stone Queen,” she responded. “I’m not sure if it is a compliment or not. Other than that, I haven’t noticed it affecting the business at all. If anything, I think people like the idea.”

Circle RS#05 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

30 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

In this kitchen the countertop has a pencil edge and full front dropdown in “Alpina White” Silestone.

For more information contact KB Surfaces, 775 Hartford Ave., Johnston, RI 02919, (401) 727-6792, www.kbsurfaces.com, info@kbsurfaces.com.

About the Author: Russ Lee is president of sitesNsolutions.com, which provides Internet solutions for the decorative surfacing industry — specializing in inbound marketing content generation and enhancing a company’s Web presence. He may be reached at (801) 735-7606 or russ@sitesNsolutions.com.

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Whether it’s adopting a new material to offer more to your customers, or refreshing your staff on some of the best techniques and practices in the Solid Surface segment of the industry, there’s a reason for everyone to experience Total Fabrication Training of Solid Surface Material.

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Circle RS#33 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Here.Now.News.

Upcoming ISFA Training & Events For more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, visit www.ISFAnow.com or contact Jennifer Plante at (877) 464-7732 or Jennifer@isfanow.org.

Solid Surface Total Fabricator Training Level I Feb. 18 – 21 • Orem, Utah

ISFA Happenings at IWF ISFA once again teamed up with the

In addition to ISFA and IWF, the event

was also sponsored by Laser Products

CEO Round Table April 5 – 6 • Cincinnati, Ohio

SolidSurface.com.

Stone/Quartz Total Fabricator Training Level I April 8 – 11 • Oakland, N.J.

Industries, Specialtytools.com, and

management behind IWF to host a

Annual Meeting

variety of events around the 2012 show.

Also during the show was ISFA’s annual

Among them were a full-day Countertops Symposium, ISFA’s annual member meeting and a networking event.

Countertops Symposium The full-day program had about three dozen attendees and provided a wealth of information on best practices for resourcing within the countertop market. The session covered residential and commercial operations, and encompassed information on a variety of countertop materials. It included discussions on materials, machinery, outsourcing vs. in-house fabrication and countertop trends. Speakers included Russ Berry, president of A.S.S.T, Mike Nolan, ISFA Director of Education and owner of Windbound Co., Dave Paxton, vice president of Paxton Countertops, and Kevin Cole, ISFA Communications Director.

Regional Grassroots Gathering March 23 • Tampa, Fla.

Regional Grassroots Gathering April 13 • Los Angeles, Calif.

member meeting, during which the ISFA Annual Awards were given out and the

Regional Grassroots Gathering May 11• Atlanta, Ga.

results from the board of director elections were revealed.

Regional Grassroots Gathering July 13 • Boston, Mass.

The ISFA awards are chosen by

CEO Round Table Aug. 24 • Chicago, Ill.

in the industry that stand out as the very

Regional Grassroots Gathering Sept. 21 • Cincinnati, Ohio

Award was presented to Jack Hussey of Jack’s Custom Woodworking (JCW), in

Stone/Quartz Total Fabricator Training Level I Oct. 7 – 10 • Las Vegas, Nev.

given to the individual, or individuals, who

Regional Grassroots Gathering Oct. 19 • Seattle, Wash.

association members, and given to those best. Taking top honors, the Hall of Fame

Woburn, Mass. The Hall of Fame Award is have in the course of their career made

significant contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and demonstrated

Hussey has served as a past state coordinator for ISFA,

of ISFA. Hussey, an early adapter of solid

and was the 2001 winner of the ISFA Fabricator of the

leadership and commitment to the ideals

has always been an innovator in the surfacing industry,

surface, has run his business for more

Year Award.

than 40 years and was a member of

ISFA since its inception. He earned the award for being a strong advocate for

the association and leading by example.

32 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

The Fabricator of the Year is awarded to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year Continued on page 33

(Continued from page 32) has best exemplified the ISFA ideals of

quality, innovation, character and exemplary service to ISFA and/or the decorative

surfacing industry, with overall excellence.

The winner for 2012 was Ted Sherritt, of

Floform in Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada,

for his continued support of ISFA, even after finishing his many years of service on the

Board of Directors. He continually helps in adding to the goodwill of the fabrication

community and is a model leader with a proven business record.

in Holland, Ohio, was installed as president.

The Associate of the Year Award is given

A.S.S.T. in Hanover, Pa., who now takes on

to an associate member company that in

the past year has best exemplified the role

of servicing the needs of fabricator member companies, and who has best supported ISFA in all activities. This year’s winner is

Cosentino for its support of ISFA goals and

members. The company readily participates in all ISFA functions and supports the

association wherever needed, with time, goods, open access to facilities and funding.

The Innovator Award is for the member

Langenderfer replaces Russ Berry, of

the role of immediate past president. The former immediate past president, Hunter

Adams, of Trindco in Suffolk, Va., has now

Retaining his positions on the board as associate member representative is Mark Anderson of Cosentino USA in Stafford, Texas.

after fulfilling their terms are directors Joe

Networking Event

industry. Also stepping down from the board Hoffmann, of Hoffmann Fixtures in Tulsa,

Okla., Martin Funck, of Rosskopf & Partner in Hennersdorf, Germany, and Mike Nolan, of Windbound Co., in Glen Alpine, N.C. Rounding out the executive committee

enhances the life or elevates the role of the

Countertops in Grand Ledge, Mich., vice

surface fabricator. The winner for 2012 was Karran for pioneering the undermounted

sink for laminate, as well as its innovative

Edge Series of flush-mount stainless sinks for solid surface, which allows for near-

seamless integration of stainless steel sinks that helps eliminate bacteria growth points.

The Envision Award is given to the ISFA member firm or individual that excels in

creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry. The winner for 2012 was Moraware’s Harry Hollander for producing a new and upgraded

countertop layout program that increases

the capabilities of fabricators while retaining the ease of use for the system, and also for creating the free Remnant Swap

service available to fabricators so they can repurpose their scrap, keeping it from the landfills.

New ISFA Board of Directors Installed Mike Langenderfer, of The Countertop Shop

Two new board members were also voted in: Erica Hussey of JCW in Woburn, Mass., and Mellisa Hill of Oldcastle Surfaces in Atlanta, Ga.

years of service to the association and the

retired from the board after many exemplary

firm or individual who goes outside the box to create a product or system that

president; and Michael Astill, of R.S. Hughes in Salt Lake City, Secretary.

The networking event, which followed the annual meeting and was sponsored by Eurosoft, had more than 50 in attendance and allowed industry professionals to mingle over dinner and drinks in an informal atmosphere.

of the board are Dave Paxton, of Paxton

Continued on page 34

ISFA Names Chuck Sawyer as Executive Director ISFA has named industry veteran Chuck Sawyer to the position of executive director. He has been part of the surfacing industry since 1974, originally owning fabrication shops in Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. One of the first DuPont certified trainers, he pioneered some of the early fabricator training in the United States and South America and was one of the original faculty members of ISFA’s training center. He served as co-chair for the ISSFA Solid Surface Conferences and was selected Associate Member of the

Year in 2001. Additionally, he has extensive sales, marketing and product development experience at both the distributor and manufacturer levels. In 2009, he was one of the first individuals to be accredited as a LEED Green Associate by the USGBC. “We are very pleased to have Chuck working on advancing the association,” said Mike Langenderfer, ISFA president. “His knowledge, experience and industry contacts, along with the great ideas he brings to the table, will help us to revamp ISFA’s programming in the coming years.”

“I am extremely pleased that I will have the honor of leading ISFA,” said Sawyer. “The industry as a whole has been through tough times in recent years, but things are starting to move in the right direction. ISFA has some amazing things in store over the next few years, and I can’t wait to launch the next generation of this outstanding organization.”

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 33

ISFANews (Continued from page 33)

New ISFA Staff Member

ISFA recently hired Jennifer Plante as the association’s new administrative

assistant. She is taking

over for Meg Pettingill, who after several years of service to the organization has stepped down to pursue other opportunities.

Born in North Attleboro, Mass., Plante relocated to Florida as a child and after graduating from

high school joined the U.S. Navy, serving in Pearl

Million Dollar Mentor Program

ISFA is bringing back its Million Dollar Mentor Program in which a seasoned industry veteran is paired up with an up-and-coming business to establish a relationship that will allow them to connect and share information designed to develop the mentee’s company.

The experience includes business training on such topics as the break-even point, pricing strategies, how to hire and motivate employees, business planning strategies and employee benefits. But that’s just the beginning. Further development is based on the goals the mentee wants to reach in his business and how the mentor can assist. Those in the program will meet with their mentor at his/her place of business at least one time during the program, and regular phone contact with both the mentors and other mentor program enrollees is part of the process.

The program is scheduled to kick off in the second quarter of 2013, so those interested in either role are encouraged to contact ISFA as soon as possible.

Interested parties can contact ISFA Executive Director Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org or by phone at (724) 612-9768.

Harbor, Hawaii, as a firefighter. After leaving the

Navy in 1997 she worked for North American Arms before pursing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is also the mother of four

children and is currently working on her MBA.

A New Emphasis on Training

With the new year approaching and a new

executive director heading up the association,

ISFA will be revamping its training programs to better suit the needs of its members. This will

include the lauded hands-on training programs that have taught the ropes to so many in the industry over the years, as well as programs designed to help business managers.

Total Fabricator Training New dates for both the Solid Surface and

Stone/Quartz Total Fabricator Training (TFT)

programs have tentatively been set for 2013: Solid Surface TFT Level I Feb. 18 – 21 Orem, Utah

Stone/Quartz TFT Level I April 8 – 11

Oakland, N.J. Stone/Quartz TFT Level I Oct. 7 – 10

Las Vegas, Nev. Additionally, in 2013 ISFA will also be taking its training on the road. ISFA is currently

engaged in the development of a program to revolutionize our Total Fabrication Training.

34 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Under the leadership of ISFA Education Director Mike Nolan, a team of experienced educators is creating a new program that will

result in a group of ISFA-approved trainers that will be able to provide fabrication training on a regional or local basis.

With course modules developed by the ISFA team, we will be able to offer customized training at your shop. We are assembling a team in training experts to prepare a Trainthe-Trainer program. This program will allow us to train fabricators across the country to be “ISFA Certified Trainers” who will be capable of providing ISFA fabricator training on a regional and local basis. The team of industry all-stars currently includes Mike Nolan, ISFA Education Director; Steve Bace of Festool; Gilberto Crombe of Multilam (who will be working in Central & South America); Tony Basilio retired DuPont trainer and all-around guru on solid surface technical and training issues; and Chuck Sawyer, ISFA Executive Director.

For more information on ISFA’s hands-on training programs or to participate in the development of this program, contact Mike Nolan at mike@isfanow.org or Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org.

Increased Networking Opportunities

Networking has always been a valuable part of the ISFA experience. In 2013 we will bring some exciting regional and local opportunities for ISFA members to work, connect and learn together for the benefit of members and the industry as a whole.

CEO Round Table Events ISFA will present a new opportunity for the executive management of our fabricator

companies to share experiences, common concerns and best practices regarding

the process of running small businesses.

Throughout the year we will have opportunities to provide programs, information and courses specifically aimed at increasing the skill set of

company senior management in order to ensure that ISFA member companies can perform with world-class results. One new program that

is being developed is the CEO Round Table

Event, a forum for education, collaboration and enlightenment on the issues facing the leaders of our industry.

In addition ISFA will be offering online

opportunities in a variety of topics that will be of

interest for executive managers and their teams.

More information on these online programs will be made available as the program progresses.

Tentative locations and dates for the CEO Round Table Events are as follows: CEO Round Table Event I Cincinnati, Ohio April 5-6

CEO Round Table Event II Chicago, Ill. Aug. 24-25

To find out more and to sign up for the ISFA CEO Round Table contact Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@ isfanow.org.

Continued on page 35

(Continued from page 34) Regional Grassroots Gatherings We have tentatively scheduled six one-day Gatherings for 2013 to bring ISFA members (and potential members) together for networking, fellowship, education and fun. The heartbeat of ISFA is the energy of our members, so we are hoping you will participate. We need your help to make sure the events are the best that they can be. The tentative dates for the ISFA Regional Grassroots Gatherings are as follows:

ISFA Sets the Standards for Quality and Professionalism “To endeavor to raise to the highest

degree the standards, ethics and practices of decorative surfacing fabrication and manufacturing”

These words from the bylaws of the

Tampa, Fla. March 23

International Surface Fabricators Association

Los Angeles, Calif.

April 13

functions, the development of standards for

set the stage for one of ISFA’s fundamental

the industry. As early as 1997, a core group

Atlanta, Ga. May 11

of ISFA members began work on the first standard document called, Classification

and Standards Publication of Solid Surfacing

Boston, Mass.

July 13

Material, ISSFA-1-98. This document

contained descriptions and types of solid

Cincinnati, Ohio Sept. 21

surfacing, recommended testing methods

and values for performance properties and

Seattle, Wash.

Oct. 19

a section describing applications for solid

surfacing. Under the leadership of Gus Blume,

For more information or to volunteer for the Grassroots Gathering Committee in your area, please contact ISFA at gatherings@isfanow.org.

If you are an associate member interested in sponsoring or displaying at these events, please contact ISFA at support@isfanow.org.

ISFA at KBIS

ISFA’s very own communications director, Kevin Cole, will be part of the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show’s (KBIS) Voices of the Industry Program, in which various members of the kitchen and bath industry present on a variety of topics.

During KBIS, which is April 19 to 21 in New Orleans, Cole will be offering a presentation titled “Countertop Trends: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” The one-hour session will cover several areas: countertop trends, consumer preferences, industry conditions and statistics, and where the industry might be headed in the coming years. The information will help to paint a picture of the countertop industry, current marketplace and a bit about how the future of the industry may look. Attendees should leave this session with a good understanding of the Continued on page 36

members of the committee met, deliberated and arrived at a consensus document,

ISSFA-2-01 (200). This standard reviewed

and expanded the scope of the standard and

effort that reached 100,000 interested parties through our website, trade magazines and other avenues. The comments gained from this process were collated, reviewed and incorporated into the document.

Our mission for 2013 will be to review and revise all our past efforts around standards, plus create a body of information around fabrication requirements and techniques. This effort will finalize with the publication of the following four documents: ISFA-2-01 (2013) Classification and

Standards for Solid Surfacing Material ISFA-2-02 (2013) Fabrication Standards for Solid Surfacing Material

ISFA-3-01 (2013) Classification and

Standards for Quartz Surfacing Material ISFA-3 -02 (2013) Fabrication Standards for Quartz Surfacing Material

added a section specifying testing methods

We have already begun work building the new

addition to the work of the ISFA committee,

working with these groups, please contact

specifically specific to solid surfacing. In

standards committees. Anyone interested in

public comment was solicited through an

Chuck Sawyer, cksawyer@isfanow.org.

FROM THE ISFA BYLAWS ■■ To promote through education of: (1)

■■ To preserve and encourage

remodelers, kitchen and bath dealers, industrial

standards by: (1) developing quality standards

architects, designers, specifiers, builders,

and OEM accounts, consumers, on the uses

and benefits of premium decorative surfacing and the fabricator’s role in the product; and (2) our members, on fabrication techniques

and methods, tools and equipment, on how

to run a shop, on how to run a business, from accounting through sales and marketing;

higher standards through improving industry and specifications for decorative surfacing fabrication and installation; (2) developing quality standards for decorative surfacing

products so as to safeguard the perception of premium decorative surfacing as quality

products; (3) establishing “solid surface” as its own stand-alone category in all relevant

■■ To educate through promotion of Association

governmental architectural, insurance or other

and professionalism in decorative surfacing

international standards and classifications (ISO,

members as a source of superior quality

codes and classification systems — including

fabrication/manufacturing worldwide;

etc.); and (4) establishing health and safety standards for fabrication shops.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 35

ISFANews (Continued from page 35) countertop segment of the kitchen and bath market and how it might look going forward.

Attendees should leave with an understanding of the trends in both traditional and new countertop materials on the market; gain insight into the economic factors that affect the countertop market; and receive forecast information looking at the future of the industry. The session is scheduled for the morning of April 21.

More information will soon be available at the KBIS website at www.kbis.com.

The ISFA Architectural Reference

An important part of further developing standards is to make them available to the industry. So, we are also working on an ISFA Architectural Reference, which will be a hard copy and online collection of standards and other information pertaining to the surfacing industry. It will be a useful “desk reference” for fabricators, architects, designers and other industry professionals.

Contents of the ISFA Architectural Reference (late 2013): ISFA-2-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Solid Surfacing Material ISFA-2-02 (2013) Fabrication Standards for Solid Surfacing Material ISFA-3-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Quartz Surfacing Material ISFA-3 -02 (2013) Fabrication Standards for Quartz Materials ISFA Specification for Solid Surfacing ISFA Specification for Quartz Surfacing ISFA CAD Drawing Library ISFA Architectural Reference Disc (contains all of the above)

ISFA Members:

Enroll in the ISFA/UPS Savings Program and save on your package and freight shipments!

ISFA Members can save: ■■ Up to 26% on UPS Next Day Air® and Worldwide Express® ■■ Up to 19% on UPS 2nd Day Air® and Worldwide Express® ■■ Up to 14% on UPS 3 Day Select® ■■ A minimum 70% on LTL freight over 150 lbs.

Items to be added later (late 2014): ISFA-4-01 (2014) Classification and Standards for Alternative Surfaces* ISFA-4-02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Alternative Surfaces ISFA-5-01 (2014) Classification and Standards for Sustainable Surfaces** ISFA-5-02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Sustainable Surfaces ISFA Specifications for Alternative Surfaces ISFA Specifications for Sustainable Surfaces

Other Collaboration

ISFA is also involved in collaborations with other trade organizations in the development of various standards that pertain to our industry.

We have prepared recommendations for both solid surfacing and quartz surfacing quality standards for the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI). The Architectural Woodwork Standards of the AWI are a comprehensive set of quality guidelines used by manufacturers and architects to define acceptable levels of quality for woodworking and millwork. Included in these standards is a chapter on countertops that contains the recommendations from ISFA.

*Alternative Surfaces include concrete, glass, metals and emerging technologies ** Sustainable Surfaces include products with recycled content, rapidly renewable resources and other attributes that contribute to a sustainable environment.

36 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Don’t miss out, enroll today and take advantage of your discounts with UPS. Phone: (866) 443-9303, ext. 4080 Email: associations@upsfreight.com Visit www.savewithups.com/isfa for more information.

ISFA is also represented on the NSF International PCR Residential Countertops Committee. This group will develop a Product Category Rules (PCR) document that is a set of specific rules, requirements and guidelines for developing environmental declarations for various categories of products. PCRs define the type of data, measuring and reporting on these products for use in a life cycle assessment. The PCR developed by the NFS International committee will cover high pressure laminate (HPL) bonded to particleboard, solid surface, natural stone, engineered stone and recycled materials. Other material types that may be captured by the PCR are concrete, tile, stainless steel and glass. Work on this standard begins in January.

The ISFA Board of Directors is also conferring with the Marble Institute of America and the Stone Fabricators Alliance on possible areas of collaboration during 2013.

The idea is that through the efforts of ISFA and ISFA members along with the collective efforts of ISFA and all of these other organizations, real good will come not only to our members, but also to the industry as a whole.

Board of Directors Mike Langenderfer

President The Countertop Shop 10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 Phone: (419) 868-9101 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net

Russ Berry

Immediate Past President A.S.S.T. 350 South St. McSherrystown, PA 17344 Phone: (717) 630-1251 Fax: (717) 630-1271 russberry@asst.com www.asst.com

Dave Paxton

Vice President Paxton Countertops PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 Phone: (517) 719-0146 paxtoncountertops@yahoo.com

Michael Astill

Secretary R. S. Hughes 3455 W. 1820 S. #1 Salt Lake City, UT 84104-4906 Phone: (801) 973-4211 mastill@rshughes.com www.rshughes.com

Erica Hussey

Director JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 Phone 781-935-1907 ericamaria@jcwcountertops.com www.jcwcountertops.com

ISFA Contacts Main Office

165 N. 1330 W. #A3 Orem, UT 84057 Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 Direct: (801) 341-7360 Fax: (801) 341-7361 Email: info@isfanow.org Web: www.ISFAnow.org

Chuck Sawyer

Executive Director Email: cksawyer@isfanow.org Direct: (724) 612-9768

Kevin Cole

Communications Director Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Email: kevin@isfanow.org Direct: (815) 721-1507

Mike Nolan

Education Director Email: mike@isfanow.org Direct: (828) 403-7386

Paul Wisnefski

Account Representative Email: wisnefski@sbcglobal.net Direct: (262) 498-4184

Jennifer Plante

Administrative Assistant & Registrar Email: jennifer@isfanow.org Office: (877) 464-7732

Mellisa Hill

Director Oldcastle Surfaces 1400 W. Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 Phone: (404) 355-3108 Mell.Hill@oldcastle.com www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Mark Anderson

Director, Associate Member Representative Cosentino USA 13124 Trinity Dr. Stafford, TX 77477 Phone: (866) 268-6837 marka@cosentinousa.com www.cosentinousa.com International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 37

Specialty Surfaces Fabricators, Manufacturers and Experts

Membership Application Main: (877) 464-7732 • Fax: (801) 341-7361 • www.ISFANow.org

Renewal Instructions: To renew your membership with ISFA, simply fill out the Personal Information section, and Payment Method and that’s it! Fax it back to (801) 341-7361 and we’ll do the rest. Please allow 2-4 weeks for your membership renewal packet to be delivered.

New Member Instructions: For Surfacing Experts wanting to become a new member, please fill out the entire form. Membership in ISFA is the industry endorsement of high quality.

This endorsement cannot be purchased for the price of membership, but must be established by the company and upheld by each member of the organization.

Fax this form back to (801) 341-7361 and we’ll do the rest.Your new membership packet will be in the mail shortly. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.

Personal Information Name: Title: Company: Address: City: State/Province: Zip/Postal Code: Country: Phone: Fax: y providing your fax number, you are giving ISFA permission to send you information via fax. q Check here if you do not wish to receive education event information via fax.

B Email: q Check here if you do not wish to receive Product and Service information from ISFA and our industry partners via email.

I Am: q Renewing My ISFA Membership

q Applying to Become a New Member

Method of Payment q I am faxing a copy of the check along with this form. (required if paying by check) Card Type:

q Visa

q Mastercard

q American Express

q Discover

Card Number: Print Name on Card: Expiration Date: Official Signature: If paying by check, fax copy along with this order form. You can also mail this form to: ISFA, 165 N 1330 W #A3, Orem, UT 84057

New Member Information Type of Membership: (please select one) q ISFA Membership: $400 — Any Specialty Surfaces

company that has been in business at least two years and carries appropriate liability insurance.

q Subscriber Membership: $400 — Applicant companies which meet all other qualifications, but have been in business for less than two years shall be eligible for Subscriber Membership in the Association.

q Branch Membership: $200 — Branch Membership is

available to companies having more than one location.

Each location must fill out seperate membership applications. Branch Membership annual dues are one-half that of the headquarters location. Each location wlll be treated as a separate member in all respects, except only headquarter locations may vote in general elections.

Sponsorship Information: In order to become a member of ISFA, you need to provide information regarding an ISFA member or company willing to sponsor you. If you do not know what to put in this section, just leave it blank. We will help you with this.

Sponsor Company: Contact Person: Telephone: Trade Reference: (Please provide a trade reference, generally your distributor of solid surface.)

Trade Reference: Contact Person: Telephone: Proof of Insurance: A copy of your certificate of liability insurance must be attached to or faxed with this form to process this application.

q Monthly Membership: $35/Monthly Code of Ethics

(please sign below)

Each member of the International Surface Fabricators Association agrees to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of their business.

By adhering strictly to the highest quality standards of fabrication, manufacturing and installation. By promoting only those products and services that are proven quality and value. By writing contracts and warranties that are clear, honest and fair to all parties involved. By honoring all contractual obligations in a reasonably prompt manner. By quickly acting on and attempting to resolve all customer complaints, and in situations where complaints appear unreasonable and persistent, by encouraging the customer to initiate and approach third-party dispute settlement mechanisms. By being fiscally responsible and honoring all legitimate financial obligations, By maintaining all required licenses and insurances.

I,_______________________________, do hereby certify that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and do agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of the International Surface Fabricators Association for as long as I hold an active membership therein.

38 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Fabricator Directory Companies in blue are Certified Professionals ALABAMA

Carroll’s Contemporary Designs Inc. 23585 County Rd. 41 Addison, AL 35540 256-462-3540

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.

112 David Green Rd. Birmingham, AL 35244-1648 205-988-3246 www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Surface One

2421 Hwy. 11 Pelham, AL 35124 205-621-1125 www.surface1.com

ALASKA

Alaskan Counter Fitters 607 Old Steese Hwy. Ste. B PMB 354 Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-455-0247

Bicknell Inc.

PO Box 33517 Juneau, AK 99801 907-789-5727 www.bicknellinc.com

Cook Inlet Housing Authority

3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503 907-793-3047 www.cookinlethousing.org

Mountain Tops LTD

6605 Arctic Spur Rd. Anchorage, AK 99518 907-272-8107 www.mountaintops.net

Panco Inc.

PO Box 210 Talkeetna, AK 99676 907-733-6600

ARIZONA Classy Kitchen and Bath

4320 W. Chandler Blvd. Ste. 7 Chandler, AZ 85226 480-731-1236 www.classykitchenandbath.com

Kirk’s Cabinets & Countertops (Kirk Construction)

4807 Hwy. 95 Parker, AZ 85344 928-667-7306 www.kirk-construction.com

Kitchen Bath & Beyond

Specializing In Solid Surface 1440 Corona Fort Mojave, AZ 86426 928-788-1000

CALIFORNIA

Block Tops Inc.

1560 Harris Ct. Anaheim, CA 92806 714-978-5080 www.blocktops.com

Buck, Jason (Superior Surface) 3609 Crow Ct. Antelope, CA 95843 916-344-3022

Duracite

2100 Huntington Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-402-1600 www.duracite.com

European Artstone Inc.

7316 Bellaire Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91605 818-255-5585 www.europeanartstone.com

Fischer Tile & Marble 1800 23rd St. Sacramento, CA 95816 916-452-1426 www.fischertile.com

Humboldt Countertops

70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-442-5918 www.humtop.com

Integra Cabinets & Millwork

249 W. Baywood #B Orange, CA 92865 714-283-2890 www.integracmw.com

Lytle Construction Inc.

145 Otto Circle Sacramento, CA 95822 916-422-6639 www.lytleconstruction.com

Mio Metals

400 Western Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 888-530-7630 www.miometals.com

Pacific Architectural Millwork 1031 Leslie St. LaHabra, CA 90631 www.pacmillwork.com 562-905-3200

RR Laminates

Distinctive Surfaces of Florida Inc.

1403 Nichols Dr. Rocklin, CA 95765 805-582-7497

Scantibodies

9336 Abraham Way Santee, CA 92071 619-258-9300 www.scantibodies.com

Southwest Carpenters Training Fund 533 S. Fremont Ave. #401 Los Angeles, CA 90071 213-739-9335

The Countertop Factory

12349 Telegraph Rd. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net

COLORADO

8272 Vico Ct. Sarasota, FL 34240 941-377-7747 www.distinctivesurfaces offlorida.com

Natural Stone Motif Inc.

870 Sunshine Ln. Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 407-774-0676 www.naturalstonemotif.com

Reall Cabinetry

1985 Cattlemen Rd. Unit D Sarasota, FL 34232 941-377-2837

Surface Crafters

711 Commercial Dr. Holly Hill, FL 32117 386-253-0826 www.surface-crafters.com

GEORGIA

Arlun Inc.

Atlanta Kitchen Inc.

Paragon Granite & Marble

Countersync

6250 Corporate Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719-599-4175

196 Rio Circle Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3220 www.atlanta-kitchen.com

14136 Valley Dr. Longmont, CO 80504 970-535-0473

1296 Jones St. Augusta, GA 30901 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net

CONNECTICUT

Lovell Construction, Inc.

6 Tosun Rd. Wolcott, CT 06716 203-879-2835

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.

Distinctive Countertops LLC

1400 W. Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 404-355-3108 www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

DELAWARE

Troy Granite Inc.

711 Interchange Blvd.

Newark, DE 19711 302-292-1750 www.troygranite.com

Top South

FLORIDA

Beverin Solid Surface 1108 Palmetto Ave. Lehigh Acres, FL 33972 239-368-9444 www.beverin.com

Carbide Industries

21880 Bradbury Rd. Grantville, GA 30220 770-253-0383

314 Crittenden St. Groveland, FL 34736 352-429-8840 www.carbideindustries.net

830 Pickens Industrial Dr. Marietta, GA 30062 770-422-4009 www.topsouth.com

HAWAII AMR llc

PO Box 1542 Aiea, HI 96701 808-652-0609

Gary’s Woodworking 60 Kaunaloa St. Hilo, HI 96720 808-936-4259

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 39

Fabricator Directory (continued) Companies in blue are Certified Professionals Hawaii Kitchen & Bath Inc.

PO Box 1857 Kailua, HI 96734 808-261-0357 www.hawaiikitchenandbath.com

Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc. 1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775

Jaco Builders Inc. 99-129B Waiua Way Aiea, HI 96701 808-486-6008

Pohaku Fabrication 1757 Haleukana St. Lihue, HI 96766 808-246-9480

Solid Surface Technologies 360 Mokauea St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-8677 www.ssthawaii.net

Superior Solid Surface

1620 Hau St. Honolulu, HI 96817 808-842-5556 www.hidanoconstruction.com

IDAHO

Bledsoe Cabinets

2990 Wise Way Boise, ID 83716 208-433-0033 www.thebledsoegroup.net

Candela Construction 4126 Couples Dr. Coeur d’ Alene, ID 83815 208-661-1398

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.

2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com

Precision Stone Design

981 Lunt Ave. Schaumburg, IL 60193 www.precisionstonedesigns.com 847-301-7171

Solid Surface Creations Inc. 403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com

Sprovieris Custom Cabinets 55 Laura Dr. Addison, IL 60101 630-917-4690 www.sprovieris.com

Stalwart Systems

7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-8895

Stevens Industries Inc. 704 W. Main St. Teutopolis, IL 62427 217-540-3100 www.stevensinc.com

INDIANA

A. I. A. Countertops LLC 501 W. Railroad Ave. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com

Bollock Industries Inc.

Custom Marble Inc.

900 Farabee Ct. Lafayette, IN 47905 765-448-6000 www.bollockstoptops.com

Dirk Foster

2369 Heinz Rd. Unit #J Iowa City, IA 52240 888-452-0714 www.granitecustomdesign.com

ILLINOIS

PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net 802 S. 26th St. Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 206-898-8163

F-W-S Solid Surface Specialist Inc. 610 N. Illinois Ave. Carbondale, IL 62901 618-457-2326 www.f-w-s.net

Maxwell Counters, Inc. PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848

New Age Surfaces 1237 Naperville Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-226-0011

Granite Custom Design

Hard Surface Fabrications, Inc./ Kormax 810 S. Beiger St. Mishawaka, IN 46544 574-259-4843

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.

711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401 812-824-6299 www.rakesolutions.com

M & W Countertops Inc. 11934 Witmer Rd. Grabill, IN 46741 260-627-3636 www.mwcountertops.com

40 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Michiana Laminated Products Inc.

7130 N. 050 E. Howe, IN 46746 260-562-2871 www.michianalaminated.com

Stone Tops

426 Forestwood Dr Valpairiso, IN 46385 219-669-7037

IOWA

Custom Countertops & More

LOUISIANA

Dan Solid Surfaces

2020 Dallas Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 225-216-3900 www.dansolidsurface.com

Top Distributors LLC 412 Post Oak Rd. Sulphur, LA 70663 337-625-5751

MAINE

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

1801 E. Oak St. Algona, IA 50511 515-295-4835

11 Collins Pond Rd. Windham, ME 04062 207-893-3445 www.getshad.com

Solid Fabrications Inc.

Tasty Food

2515 Murray St. Sioux City, IA 51111 712-255-5319 www.solidfab.com

KANSAS

Countertop Shoppe

5855 S.W. 21st St. Topeka, KS 66604 785-271-8675 www.mycountertopshoppe.com

Fisher Lumber Co., Inc. P.O. Box 355 Garden Plain, KS 67050 316-531-2295

Kitchens Inc.

2301 W. Frontview Dodge City, KS 67801 620-225-0208

Mid-America Kitchens & Baths

1105 N. Industrial Marion, KS 66861 620-382-3390 www.midamericamarble products.com/

Parman Brothers LTD

PO Box 7 Johnson, KS 67855 620-492-6882 www.parmanbrothersltd.com

Top Master Inc.

2844 Roe Ln. Kansas City, KS 66103 913-492-3030 www.top-master.com

KENTUCKY

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

1272 Hwy. 490 East Bernstadt, KY 40729 606-843-6891 www.surfaces-unlimited.com

232 Main St. P.O. Box 140 Van Buren, ME 04785 207-868-3011

MARYLAND

SolidTops LLC

505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com

MASSACHUSETTS

Black Beauty Granite & Marble Inc. 74 Devon Rd. Norwood, MA 02062 781-762-5885

Jack’s CustomWoodworking/ JCW Countertop 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com

PADCO Countertop Co.

5 Springdale Ave. Canton, MA 02021 781-828-1177 www.padcocountertop.com

Sterling Surfaces

76 Leominster Rd. Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-3321 www.sterlingsurfaces.com

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc. 1079 N. Montello St. Brockton, MA 02301 508-894-6999 www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com

TWD Surfaces

75 Hale St. Bridgewater, MA 02324 508-279-2650 www.twdsurfaces.com

MICHIGAN

BMC

7343 Buell Rd. Vassar, MI 48768 989-871-5000 www.blasiusinc.com

Jim Shreve

Blasius Inc.

JC Tops Inc.

3156 Parker Dr. Royal Oak, MI 48073 248-733-8677 www.jctopsinc.com

Marbelite Corp.

22500 Heslip Dr. Novi, MI 48375 248-348-1900 www.marbelitecorp.com

Paxton Countertops PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

6689 Sterling Dr. S. Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-274-9668

3200 Hwy. 12 E. P.O. Box 5780 Helena, MT 59404 www.buildwithbmc.com P.O. Box 721 Florence, MT 59833 406-880-3566

The Flooring Place 1891 Boothill Ct. Bozeman, MT 59715 406-587-2320

Pyramid Cabinet Shop 1201 Fourth Ave. N. Billings, MT 59101 406-671-8329 www.pyramid-cabinet.com

Solid Surface Designs 233 Lambeth Rd. Billings, MT 65610 417-848-4446

VanSetten Walker Construction Co.

MINNESOTA

821 1st Ave. N.W. Great Falls, MT 59404 406-570-5283

515 Spiral Blvd.

Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004

PO Box 30254 Billings, MT 59107 406-259-5177 www.woodcollc.com

Innovative Surfaces Inc.

The Pinske Edge

119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com

The Top Shop of Rochester Inc.

235 Woodlake Dr. S.E. Rochester, MN 55904 507-282-9129 www.topshoprochester.com

MISSISSIPPI

Countertop Creations of the Gulf Coast

1302 Live Oak Pascagoula, MS 39567 228-938-6484

MISSOURI Genistone

137 E. State Hwy. CC Nixa, MO 65714 417-725-0909 www.genistone.com

MONTANA Bevco

1627 Dickie Rd. Billings, MT 59101 406-248-2670

WoodCo LLC

NEBRASKA

Builders Warehouse 4600 N. Second Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 308-627-6702

Lincoln Laminating Inc. 5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009

Martin’s Counter Tops Inc. 9101 Military Rd. Omaha, NE 68134 402-572-4044 www.martinscountertops.com

NEVADA

B&H Interiors

4385 Wagon Trail Las Vegas, NV 89118 702-400-6547

Carpenters Int’l Training Fund

6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111

Creative Surface Solutions 2855 Coleman St. N. Las Vegas, NV 89032 702-365-6444 www.creativesurface.com

K-C Maintenance

Evans & Paul LLC

4710 W. Post Rd. #145 Las Vegas, NV 89118 702-228-5552

NEW HAMPSHIRE

140 DuPont St. Plainview, NY 11803 516-576-0800 www.evansandpaul.com

Maui Solid Surface

Marker Systems Inc.

NEW JERSEY

Modern Home Distributing

940 River Rd. North Tonawanda, NY 14120 716-695-1102

182 E. Dunstable Rd. Nashua, NH 03062 603-718-0014

Innovative Concrete Solutions

PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523

28 Olympia Ln. Sicklerville, NJ 08081 215-983-9792

J. Dougherty & Son/ JDS Supply 337 N. Main St. Glassboro, NJ 08028 856-881-5444 www.JDSsupply.com

100 Bellport Ave. Yaphank, NY 11980 631-205-0282 www.penn4corian.com

Unico Special Products Inc. 25 Renwick St. Newburgh, NY 12550 845-562-9255 www.unicospecialproducts.com

J&M Lifestyles

215 Rte. 10 Building 3 Randolph, NJ 07869 973-668-5057 www.jmlifestyles.com

Wilbedone Inc.

Marvic Corp.

2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy.

Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com

NEW MEXICO

American Countertops 8013 Edith N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-897-3141

Elvis Custom Building 812 S. 4th Artesia, NM 88210 575-308-7850

OGB Architectural Millwork 3711 Paseo del Norte Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-998-0000 www.ogb-am.com

Rojo Enterprises LLC PO Box 429 Roswell, NM 88202 505-626-3553

1133 NYS Rte. 222 Cortland, NY 13045 800-734-8813 www.wilbedone.com

NORTH CAROLINA

Carolina Custom Surfaces

100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 336-299-3030 www.carolinacustomsurfaces.com

Johnson Granite Inc. PO Box 511 589 Hiatt Rd. Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-719-2729

Meld USA Inc.

3001-103 Spring Forest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27616 919-790-1749 www.meldusa.com

Premier Plus Inc.

165 Wildwood Ave. Hamlet, NC 28345 910-995-5615 www.premierplusinc.net

Surface Matters

108 Forest Brook Dr. Cary, NC 27519 919-801-8021 www.surfacematters.net

NEW YORK

Dimensional Stone & Tile Designs, Inc

Penn Fabricators Inc.

146 E. Third St. Mount Vernon, NY 10550 www.dimensionalstone.net 914-664-1200

Windbound Co.

PO Box 817 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 828-438-0892 www.windboundsurfaces.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 41

Fabricator Directory (continued) Companies in blue are Certified ISFA Professionals OHIO

Bertke Countertops 9355 Amsterdam Rd. Anna, OH 45302 937-538-7024

Cabinets 2 Countertops

7142 Frank Ave. N.W. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-244-0221 www.cabinets2countertops.com

Top Shelf Laminated Products 400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289

Tower Industries

PO Box 647 Massillon, OH 44648 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com

OKLAHOMA

Countertop Shop LTD

Hoffman Fixtures Co.

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.

OREGON

10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net

6031 S. 129th St. Ste. B Tulsa, OK 74134 918-252-0451 www.hfccountertops.com

Jon Hirt

258 Nichols St. Leesport, PA 19533 484-794-8263

John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.

PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com

Pence Countertops Inc.

124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609 www.pencecountertops.com

1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com

Countertops by Topsecret

RHODE ISLAND

Granex Industries

Douglas High School

PO Box F Pawtucket, RI 2861 508-761-7588

32400 Aurora Rd. Salon, OH 44139 440-248-4915 www.granexindustries.com

Helmart Co., Inc.

4960 Hillside Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45233 www.helmart.net 513-941-3095

6076 Washburn Way Klamath Falls, OR 97603 541-850-8677 1381 Douglas Blvd.

Winston, OR 97496 541-643-9344

Grifform Innovations Inc. PO Box 258 Glide, OR 97443 541-496-0313 www.grifform.com

Heritage Marble Inc.

South Umpqa School District

Innovative Builders

PENNSYLVANIA

7086 Huntley Rd. Columbus, OH 43229 614-436-7465

6909 Engle Rd. Ste. 19 Middleburg Hts., OH 44130 800-936-4799

Korkan Granite

4561 Crystal Pkwy.

Kent, OH 44240 330-677-1883 www.korkangranite.com

L. E. Smith Co.

1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com

Laminate Shop, Inc. PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536

Mark Dietz

7513 Bartholomew Dr. Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 440-476-9905

Solid Surfaces Plus

4640 Manufacturing Rd. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-267-7040 www.solidsurfacesplus.com

501 N.W. Chadwick Ln. Myrtle Creek, OR 97457 541-580-3750

A.S.S.T.

805 W. Elm Ave. Hanover, PA 17331 717-630-1251 www.asst.com

Advanced Surfaces Inc. 130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 814-663-0369

Blume’s Solid Surface Products 904 Freeport Rd. Freeport, PA 16229 724-294-3190 www.blumes.net

Chuck Sawyer

4802 Au Sable Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 412-213-0370

J.A. Kohlhepp Sons Inc.

PO Box 423 640 DuBois St. Dubois, PA 15801 814-371-5060

42 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

New England Counter Top

SOUTH CAROLINA Creative Counter Tops 1056 Hunley Sullivan Rd. Awendaw, SC 29429 843-881-8315

SOUTH DAKOTA

Dakotaland Woodwork & Cabinets LLC 41181 179th St. Raymond, SD 57258 605-532-4150

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co. 45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com

Formatop Co.

101 S. Franklin Sioux Falls, SD 57103 605-332-3151

www.formatopcompany.com

TENNESSEE

Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.

1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626 www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.

300 Peabody St. Nashville, TN 37210 615-915-0718 www.creativecountersolutions.com

TEXAS

Classic Counter Tops

2325 Executive Dr. Garland, TX 75041 972-840-1234 www.classiccountertopsinc.com

Counterscapes, Inc. 2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676

Countertop Solutions LLC

PO Box 820847 Houston, TX 77077 713-204-0080 www.ineedcountertops.com

R.L. Stephens Inc.

8916 Pepper Rock Dr. Austin, TX 78717 512-801-7105

Southwestern Counter Tops & Millwork 4100 Frankfort Ave. El Paso, TX 79903 915-562-1116 www.swcelpaso@elp.rr.co

University of North Texas

1155 Union Circle Denton, TX 76203 940-891-6853

Walter Crum Construction

PO Box 12359 Lubbock, TX 79452 806-748-1899

W R Watson Inc. 12902 Mula Ln. Stafford, TX 77477 281-495-2800

UTAH

Associated Fixture Mfg.

8975 W. 3500 S. Magna, Utah 84044 801-250-7620 www.associatedfixture.com

Bedrock Quartz

5996 Dannon Way West Jordan, UT 84081 801-282-3322 www.bedrockquartz.com

Quality Craft Wood Works HC 60 Box 703 Rocky Ridge, UT 84645 435-623-1707

SLC Corp

248 E. 600 S. Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Ty’s Cabinets

PO Box 295 Cleveland, UT 84518 435-749-2467

Utah Kitchen and Bath

2098 E. 2250 N. Layton, UT 84040 801-814-8847 www.utahkitchenandbath.com

VIRGINIA

Boeing Service Co. 14675 Lee Rd. Chantilly, VA 20151 703-808-2717

Five Star Fab & Fixture PO Box 1726 Salem, VA 24153 540-444-0456 www.fivestarfab.com

Metro Stone Works LLC 9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com

Surface Link Corp.

4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com

The Wood Palace

4825 W. Norfolk Rd. Portsmouth, VA 23703 757-647-8130

TRINDCO

1004 Obici Industrial Blvd.

Suffolk, VA 23434 757-539-0262 www.trindco.com

WASHINGTON

Absolute ConcreteWorks 5795 N.E. Minder Rd. Poulsbo, WA 98370 360-297-5055

Fine Line Pacific Inc. 22445 76th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 425-251-6177 www.finelinepacific.com

RD Wing

11809 N.E. 116th St. Kirkland, WA 98034 425-821-7222 www.blimages.com

Sheridan Woodworking LLC 2175 Frog Hollow Rd. Walla Walla, WA 99362 509-540-7799

Synsor Corp.

1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy.

Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604

Tommy T Cook

8202 St. Hwy. 104 Ste. 102 PMB 135 Kingston, WA 98346 206-349-6403 www.tommytcook.com

WEST VIRGINIA Alternative Building Concepts, Inc.

4341 Rt. 60 E. Ste. 187 Huntington, WV 25705 304-736-0494

WISCONSIN

Bisley Fabrication Inc. 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 715-787-4410 www.bisfab.com

McDermott Top Shop LLC

200 A Main St. Sullivan, WI 53178 262-593-2456

Spectrum Surfaces Inc. 812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 920-337-6575

WYOMING

Heritage Woods Inc. 1806 Pacific Ave. Ste. 4 Cheyenne, WY 82007 307-640-2445

J Booth Specialties PO Box 1152 Casper, WY 82602 307-258-2992

BERMUDA

Fabrications

10 Rosshire Ord Rd. Warwick, WK08 Bermuda 441-332-0042

Kitchen Installations Ltd. PO Box HM1876 Hamilton, HMHX Bermuda 441-292-1556

CANADA

Abet Laminati

50 Paxman Rd. Unit 10-11 Toronto, ON M9C 1B7 Canada 416-620-6556

Colonial Countertops Ltd.

609 Alpha St. Victoria, BC V8Z 1B2 Canada 250-383-1926 http://colonialcountertops.com

Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc.

MEXICO

Executive Millwork

Boulevard Hacienda Galindo 116 Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230 Mexico 52-4422342743

PO Box 40 99 Harrison St. Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0 Canada 519-461-0100 #5 1212 38 Ave N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 6N2 Canada 403-291-0400

NIGERIA

FloForm Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada 204-474-2334 www.floform.com

19 Sule Abuka Crescent off Opebi Rd. Ikeja, Lagos 10011 Nigeria 234-7039707383

Venio Woodwork N.V

77 Industrielle Stanstead, QC J0B 3E0 Canada 819-564-7111 www.granitdesign.com

Guana Bay Rd. #1 Philipsburg Saint Martin 599-580-6348

KTC Construction

SINGAPORE

101-3905 Quadra St. Victoria, BC V8X 1J1 Canada 250-885-1524

Global-Allied Pte Ltd.

Paragon Surfacing Ltd.

6720 Graybar Rd. Unit 110 Richmond, BC V6W 1J1 Canada 604-278-2225 www.paragonsurfacing.com

SSC Countertops Ltd. 1253 W. 76 Ave. Vancouver, BC V6P 6M3 Canada 604-294-4071 www.ssccountertops.com

FRANCE

No. 18C Kranji Loop Singapore 739554 Singapore 65-63658781 www.global-group.com.sg

SOUTH AFRICA Techno Surfaces

Unit 2, 18 Losack Ave. Epping 2 Cape Town, Western Province 7806 South Africa 27-215340154 www.technosurfaces.co.za

THAILAND

Tiffany Decor Co., Ltd.

CREA Diffusion

ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com

GERMANY

Rosskopf & Partner AG Bahnhofstrasse 16 D 09573 Augustusburg – Hennersdorf Germany www.rosskopf-partner.com 493-729-12524

Respond S.A.L.

Trioteknix Limited-Member NITP

SAINT MARTIN

Granit Design

LEBANON

Victor Coronado Services

6/2 m. 8 Klonghartawanook 29 Rd. Klonghar, Klongruang Patumtanee 12120 Thailand 66298-6446

UNITED KIINGDOM Interfab LTD

Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk

1st Floor Missirian Bldg.

Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 43

Product News Fishstone Offers New Line of Concrete Mixers Concrete

Countertop Supply

Eurosoft Upgrades TOPaz Countertop Production Software Eurosoft has upgraded its TOPaz Complete Countertop Production software by adding a new line of Elevation tools to the extensive Drawing Library. The Elevation tools provide users freedom to design components added in elevation such as backsplashes and wall panels in any size, shape and style. The software also allows users to invoice customers and output machine code or multilayered DXF files direct to CNC machines.

Circle RS#13 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Vicostone Adds New Color to Quartz Surfacing Line

by Fishstone now

offers a new line of Imer mixers.

The line includes three Vertical Shaft Mixer

models: the Mini-Mix 60, the Mortarman 120 and the Mortarman 360. The Mini-Mix is a 14-gal.

vertical shaft mixer with a batch output of 12 gal. and features 3/4 hp, 110 volts, 10-amp power; a total machine weight of 64 lbs.; a paddle speed of 55 rpm; and a 24-in. drum diameter. The

quiet, portable Mortarman 120 4.5-cu.-ft. mixer

has an output of 2.2 cu. ft. and features 1 hp 110 volts, 12-amp power; a total machine weight of 200 lbs.; paddle speed of 32 rpm; and a 27-in. drum diameter. The Mortarman 360 12-cu.-ft.

mixer has a batch output of 9 cu. ft. The drum

bottom is generously sized to reduce wear, and the mixing blades have rubber inserts to clean

the mixing drum. The newly designed gearbox

helps ensure torque in difficult mixes. It features 5 hp, 220 volts or 3-phase electric motor; the

availability of an 11 hp Honda gas motor; a total machine weight of 800 lbs.; and adjustable Vicostone is adding a new color, Bianco Romano, to its Dallas

machine height.

Circle RS#15 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Karran Offers Seamless Waste Chutes

sia Abrasives Designs Flexible Handpad Abrasive The new 6711 siafleece flex handpads from sia Abrasives readily conform to curves or can be formed into a ball-like steel wool making it easier to sand irregular work areas.

The new handpad exhibits a consistent scratch pattern due to its grit consistency. (The grit is actually impregnated throughout the entire structure, not just the surface.) It provides a matte finish, is able to be used moist or dry, does not clog and has an extended lifetime.

Circle RS#17 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

New GranQuartz Legend Turbo Blades for Granite Available GranQuartz offers the new Legend Turbo Blades, designed to cut granite and other

a specially designed bond

surfacing.

matrix and narrow cutting flutes for a clean,

This new entry to the U.S. market is named

chip-free cut.

after a beautiful natural granite and has gray

According to the company, the blades are

and tan veining on a white surface, dotted with

among the fastest, most aggressive granite

burgundy garnets. The new color is a perfect

cutting blades on the market. They are

addition to the company’s Romance Series,

44 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Circle RS#16 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

premium diamonds,

Stone” quartz

Circle RS#14 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

and 9-in. internal diameters.

engineered with

“Natural Look

Alaska White, Safari and Bizana (Granite looks).

Karran’s seamless models (EW-07 and EW-09) prevent that problem. They are available in 7-

stone. They are

offering of its

Classic and Empire (marble looks), as well as

opportunity for them to trap dirt and bacteria.

hard natural

inventory

which includes Carrara, Calacatta, Botticino

shops and similar places. Most types are top-mounted into the surface, leaving an

available in 4-, 4-1/2-, 5-, 6- and 7-in. sizes.

Karran now offers seamless waste chutes, also

They are manufactured with a high diamond

fit into countertops above trash cans, generally

used dry or wet.

known as trash rings. These stainless steel rings

concentration for extra-long life and can be

in restrooms, fast food restaurants, coffee

Circle RS#18 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA MEMBERSHIP It’s more than just learning how to be more profitable, saving money on the bottom line and getting great referrals and discounts.

Call ISFA today and find out how to make your world a better place.

Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org Circle RS#34 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Product News Cambria Adds Two Colors to its Quartz Surfacing Line Cambria unveiled two new

designs in its line of quartz surfacing, Berkeley and

Colonial Saws Line of Vertical Panel Saws Now Has 5 Models Wilsonart Adds 2 HD Laminate Designs

Distributed solely by Colonial Saw Company

Wilsonart is adding two new designs inspired by

models. The saws offer efficient, seam-ready

Brazilian granite to its HD laminate collection.

The new additions — Winter Carnival and Summer Carnival — include large-scale

elements, veining and striking colorations.

Summer Carnival features large-scale areas

of movement in golden ambers and browns with gray accents. Winter Carnival includes rich red-brown colors with accents in gray.

They are available in a 35-Mirage finish, which carries subtle variations in matte and gloss

that mimic natural finishes, and are made with

in North America, the line of Swiss-made

STRIEBIG vertical panel saws comes in five cut quality and durability for countertop fabrication, and standard models can

v-groove in both directions (X & Y axes)

and cove cut backsplashes. Colonial Saw

also offers a Certified Pre-owned STRIEBIG

Program in which the saws undergo extensive, multipoint inspections and testing processes

by the company’s highly experienced factorytrained technicians.

Circle RS#21 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

the company’s exclusive AEON Enhanced Performance Technology.

Circle RS#19 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

line comes in warm and

Cambria’s offerings

to 102 designs. The

Waterstone Collection is modeled after

marble and granite,

and the Jewel Collection features designs with

shimmering crystals deep within the surface to reflect light and create an iridescent, jeweled

surface. The new Berkeley color features hints of copper and a smattering of bronze that

swim amongst a sea of sandy tones. Rosslyn has striking metallic golds against a nuanced background of taupe and tans.

Circle RS#23 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

New Ravenna Mosaics Releases New Collection

Mosaics, Adams has incorporated additional opaque hues. The first collection includes

12 designs ranging from the continuous line mosaics inspired by Italian still life painter

Giorgio Morandi to African textile kente cloth.

Ozer-The Marble Group Supplies Bianco Dolomite

vibrant colors geared

Ozer-The Marble Group offers Bianco

children (and the kid

The company, which has 12 quarries and

bright, nonporous and

slabs, tiles, mosaics and accessories,

toward providing

Dolomite in both slabs and tiles.

inside all of us), a fun,

four factories, offers hundreds of stone

durable surfacing material. It comes

including granite, marble, travertine, onyx,

in 11 colors.

limestone and slate.

Circle RS#20 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#22 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

46 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Collections taking

jewel glass colors offered by New Ravenna

surfacing called Quartz

aggregates. This new

Waterstone and Jewel

collection. In addition to the core selection of

new line of its quartz

95 percent natural

palette expand the

product designer Erin Adams to release a new

Empatico launched a

manufactured using

to Cambria’s design

New Ravenna Mosaics collaborated with

Empatico Launches Quartz Surfacing Line Geared for Children

for Kidz, which is

Rosslyn. These new additions

Adams has playfully reproduced venerable

Italian smalti in stained glass, replicating the shape of the legendary material in a riot of

colors. Pop plays significantly in her treatment of objects from the natural world — flowers, coral, clouds, fish, and hearts. Adams turns drops of water into mod cartoons using black and

white stone, artfully allowing the grout to play a significant role. The collection in stone can be installed on floors and walls both indoors and out. The jewel glass mosaics are suitable for interior vertical installations.

Circle RS#24 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Product News Global Offers New Preheating Oven

constantly monitored

quickly create

Global’s convection oven

sensors. This oven can be used for preheating

templates, tool

by temperature control

GET-S is the standard model

of the Ecotherm product line. This unique

preheating oven has been developed as an

economical solution for all sizes of companies to obtain the best possible results during

preheating. For ease of use, material to be

preheated is placed onto a manually operated,

roller-mounted tray. In order to ensure both fast

solid surface material,

lines and favorite manufacturing parameters take

material thickness; a working height of 950mm,

automatically.

minutes to set, and nested G-Code is generated

a working tempeerature of ±130 to 170 C; and a

Circle RS#26 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#25 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

MóZ Introduces Woven Wall Surfacing

maximum temperature 200 C.

top and bottom heating elements and powerful

KCD Software introduces a complete line of

adjustable timer with a signal light to indicate

set preheating times have been accomplished.

A digital electronic temperature control unit, mounted on the oven’s front panel, allows

for precise temperature adjustment, which is

with the SMART Template Generator. Product

a preheating time of two minutes per millimeter

KCD Software Offers Drawer/Door Software

fans. The standard equipment includes an

paths and details,

thermoplastics and other similar materials. It has

heat distribution and uniform heating of the

material, the oven is equipped with long-lasting

new custom

Weave Wall, a series of undulating metal ribbons

comprehensive design and manufacturing

software especially for door and drawer box

manufacturers. Created for both traditional and

CNC manufacturing, Doors Plus new technology allows for streamlined order entry, product entry and specifications. CNC design engineers can

Circle RS#06 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

in a versatile array of sizes, patterns and colors, is now part of MóZ Designs’ new ETA (Easy to

Assemble) Series of artful installations. It is pre-

engineered to meet a site’s spatial requirements and shipped ready to install with no special tools required. Fabricated from 80 percent

post-industrial recycled aluminum, it earns LEED

credits (2.0 MR Credit 4 – Recycled Content) and

Circle RS#07 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • 47

Product News Modono Glass Offers New Line of Sinks Modono Glass, manufacturer of the Modono Glass Tile Collection, offers a new and distinctive line of glass sinks called the Modono Glass Sink Collection. Utilizing their unique and proprietary dichroic (color changing) thin-film

is available in four standard widths from 20 to 36 in. wide and in four standard lengths from 42 to 144 in. long. The woven panels are fabricated from 0.063-in. aluminum and can be placed in either vertical or horizontal installations. The metal cross bars are clear finished aluminum. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, and finishes include polycoat gloss or matte.

Circle RS#27 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

coating process to create distinctive colors and

The product facilitates router registration

shades, the company has created new sinks

without a camera. It prompts the operator to

that are vibrant and come in several popular shapes, installed as vessels, ž recessed or as undermounts.

Circle RS#28 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

MultiCam Offers New Router Registration System Focusing on economy, MultiCam Inc. offers

the manual Value Vision system for low-volume

the laser pointer. Then it extrapolates the position of the remaining fiducials based on the orientation and distances between the initial few. The image of the cut file appears on the graphical keypad before the operator starts the cutting sequence. With the proper mechanical setup, the system can make registration

digital finishing without the cost of registration

available to all MultiCam router operators.

equipment designed for major industrial users.

Circle RS#29 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#08 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

48 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

locate at least the first two fiducials, using

Circle RS#09 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Free Product Information Form Or visit www.ISFANow.org/info to fill out our online form

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Volume 5 / Issue 4 Get Your Free Product Information Today: For more facts on products and services, please fill out all the information below and circle the product referral numbers that are found in the magazine. Product referral numbers can be found below each advertisement. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer. You can submit this form via mail, fax, email (editor@isfanow.org) or visit us online at www.ISFAnow.org/info.

Personal Information Name: Title: Company: Address: City: State/Province: Zip/Postal Code: Country: Phone: Fax: y providing your fax number, you are giving ISFA permission to send you information via fax. q Check here if you do not wish to receive education event information via fax.

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Which one category best describes your job title/function? q Owner/Partner/Corporate Management and Related Personnel q Production/Plant Management and Related Personnel q Design (includes staff designer/architect and related personnel)

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C20 Training

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C22 Other Materials

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C12 Sealers/Polishes

C02 Adhesives

C13 Seaming Equipment

C03 Air Quality Equipment

C14 Sinks

C09 Prefabricated Accessories C10 Quartz Surfacing C11 Saws

Free Product Information Please circle below all of the referral numbers found in the magazine, or the category numbers found on this page that you would like more information on. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer.

05

C01 Abrasives

C08 Material Handling Equipment

____________________________________________________________

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Information By Category If you want more information from several advertisers in a category, circle the category number that matches up with the category below.

C07 Laminate

____________________________________________________________

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C06 Hand/Power Tools

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C05 Concrete Materials & Supplies

____________________________________________________________

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C04 CNC Machinery

What surfacing materials do you work with?

C15 Software

C16 Solid Surface C17 Stone

C18 Templating Equipment C19 Tooling

C21 Waterjet Equipment

Classifieds Attention Fabricators

ISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment taking up space in your shop that you would like to sell?

Are you looking to fill a key position in your operations?

Our readers might be interested. Why not submit a FREE classified ad?

That’s right, relevant classifieds in this publication are free to ISFA fabricator members!

Just send us the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest.

Email us today at editor@ isfanow.org.

Circle RS#30 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

To place a paid classified ad, for those of you who are not fabricator members, email kevin@isfanow.org or call (815) 721-1507.

Ad Index Referral Page Number Number

08 06 05 07 03 32 31 34 33 12 30 01 11 02 09 04

Axiom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Beckart Environmental, Inc.. . . . . 47 Chemcore Industries, Inc.. . . . . . 30 ETemplate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Eurosoft. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 ISFA Grassroots Gatherings . . . . 25 ISFA Coming Events . . . . . . . . . . 17 ISFA Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . 45 ISFA Fabrication Training. . . . . . . 31 Integra Adhesives . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Kormax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 ITW TACC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Laser Products Industries. . . . . . 51 Park Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Performance Abrasives. . . . . . . . 48 Sites N Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

50 • Vol. 5 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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