ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 13, Issue 3- Q3 2020

VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 3 • QUARTER 3, 2020 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

Adapting to Remote Work and Online Supply Channels Page 14

Handling, Fabricating and Installing Porcelain Slabs Page 20 Spotlight on Software, Templating and Technology Page 24 Fabricator Profile: Front Range Stone Page 28

The Changing Face of Quartz Page 32

ISFA Member since 2020

ISFA Member since 2018

CREDITS Letters to the Editor

Photography

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.

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.

Please send letters to editor@isfanow.org or to Letters, ISFA, PO Box 627, Ingomar, PA 15127, 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, PO Box 627, Ingomar, PA 15127, attention: Editor.

Photography/graphics provided by: Crossville, Roberto Colonetti, Front Range Stone Countertops.

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About This Magazine Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (ISSN 2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in October. 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 (888) 599-ISFA. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2020. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

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 Ingomar, Pa., 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.

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4 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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

ISFA Officers of the Board Steve Mast, Vice president Kelley Montana, Treasurer Austin Maxwell, Secretary Jim Callaghan, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Directors Mike Langenderfer, Director Joe Duszka, Director Laura Grandlienard, Director Rodrigo Valazquez, Director Eric Tryon, Director Joe Connolly, Associate Member Representative Paul “Max” Le Pera, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Staff Nancy Busch, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Director of Communications and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Carol Wilhite, Operations Manager Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative Amy Kyriazis, Program Manager Chris Pappenfort, Trainer Fred Hueston, Trainer

Cover Photo The cover photo features a countertop made with State of Grace large format porcelain tile

by Crossville, Inc. An elegant, yet durable tile that helps avoid callbacks and offers a lifetime of beauty. Visit http://crossvilleinc.com to discover the vast array of shapes, sizes and trims available for this product and to see Crossville’s complete lineup of tiles.

ISFA Member since 2015

CONTENTS Features 20 Advice on Handling, Fabricating and Installing Porcelain Slabs Insight from an international expert

14

24 Spotlight on Software, Templating and Technology A look at industry advancements 28 ISFA Fabricator Profile: Front Range Stone Diversity and tenacity as two pillars for growth

20

32 Embracing a Crystalline Renaissance The changing face of quartz

Departments

8 From the Editor

24

12 Calendar of Events 14 Education Connection 16 Industry News 36 From the Executive Director 37 ISFA News 41 ISFA Fabricator Directory 46 Product News 49 Classifieds/Ad Index

28

32 6 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

50 From the President

Check us out on social media for more regular information: Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CASMagazine/.

Follow us on Twitter as @ISFA.

ISFA Member since 2000

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

Time, Technology and Temperament I remember back as I prepared to enter the

So, rather than idling in the time that may have

resolution to take just a little more time for

we are able to work from nearly any setting.

new, promising year of 2020 how I made a myself this year. I planned on extra time to

enjoy life, maybe do some reading, travel or just to make more pleasant memories with

family and friends. I reasoned it would be good for my temperament, make me happier, and

I’d feel more like the hard work (which I’m sure we all put in) was more like a means to an

enjoyable, well-deserved end. Little did I know

back then just how much time I would be given when most of the country fell under “shelter

in place” or quarantine orders caused by the global virus outbreak.

However, while at first I seemed to have more time on my hands, it turned out that I also

had much more to worry about. While it was common for everyone during the first days of quarantine to contemplate the negative

outcomes and uncertainty that we all faced, many of us also had much more to think

been forced upon us, in this technological age Even while we’re sitting in our homes with no place to go, we can relatively easily access plenty of information and work around the

clock if we so choose. As is evidenced in the spotlight on software and other advancing technologies (Page 24), our email is just

down with the shutdown of nearly everything.

As such, you, like myself, may have been

even more motivated to dig in and come up

with a plan to push through the pain that was obviously headed toward all of us.

8 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

of their families. However, also make sure that balance keeps you and the people you care about happy as well. Too many times we supplant a feeling of joy for a feeling of

as common as our phones. In this issue you

the pleasure of spending time with your family,

certainly make one feel good, it can’t replace

will also read about working remotely (Page

relaxing with your favorite hobby or perhaps,

14) wherein the author specifically suggests

we set time boundaries and create dedicated spaces. And while I may not be the best at

sometimes, even just getting a good night’s sleep after a hard day’s work.

following my own advice, I urge you also to set

So, take advantage of the benefits that the

Make sure that you are not so engulfed by your

time wisely to achieve your goals, but also

boundaries at the other end of the spectrum.

expanding technologies allow, and use your

business and your career that you sacrifice

make sure your goals include both professional

those things that soothe your temperament and push you toward your better nature.

planning and maybe even investing some

worked so hard to build, didn’t come crashing

working (albeit safely) and able to take care

nearly anywhere, even through something

businesses, the well-being of our employees heavily upon us to make sure what we had

profitably), so you can keep your employees

accomplishment. While accomplishment can

That is not to say that the times we live in

and even their families. The burden weighed

keeps your business running (hopefully

the beginning of what we can access from

about. We not only had our friends and families in mind, but we also needed to consider our

Do what it takes to find that balance that

aren’t going to require plenty of thought,

extra time in unconventional thinking to come up with inventive solutions to developing

problems. However, as the saying goes, you

and personal targets. I’m going to try to make that more of a priority and I hope you will too.

Our health and wealth are important, but what good are they without our happiness?

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

should be working smarter, not harder. These same technologies that allow you to work

from anywhere at any time can also allow you to share the burden of leadership and better regulate and prioritize your time.

Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org

ISFA Member since 1998

ISFA Member since 2016

Special Section

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ISFA Online Maker’s Monday Meetings with Virtual Shop Tours Sponsored by Park Industries Every Monday at 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmonday-meetings Green Business Summit Sept. 10 Online www.greenbuildexpo.com (866) 815-9824 NSI Stone Summit Sept. 16 & 17 Online (440) 250-9222 www.naturalstoneinstitute.org

Marmomacc Restart Digital Edition Sept. 30 – Oct. 2 www.marmomacc.com +39 045 829-8561 NSI Stone Summit Oct. 7 & 8 www.naturalstoneinstitute.com (440) 250-9222 Global Health & Wellness Summit Oct. 22 Online www.greenbuildexpo.com (866) 815-9824

Canada Woodworking EAST Oct. 22 – 23 ISFA Gen 2 Roundtable Event Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec Sponsored by Moraware Canada and BACA Systems (888) 454-7469 Fall IWF Connnect Virtual Meeting Oct. 26 – 30 (888) 599-ISFA Online www.isfanow.org www.iwfconnect.com Regent Stone Granite/ (404) 693-8333 Quartz Fabrication Training ISFA Annual Conference Sponsored by ISFA & Meeting Sept. 22 – 23 Sponsored by Park Virginia Beach, Va. Industries, GranQuartz, (866) 233-4877 Regent Stone, Integra www.regentstone Adhesives, Crossville and products.com Infinity Surfaces Regent Stone Granite/ Virtual Event Quartz Repair Training Nov. 3 – 6 Sponsored by ISFA (888) 599-ISFA Sept. 24 – 25 www.isfanow.org Virginia Beach, Va. Greenbuild 2020 (866) 233-4877 Nov. 10 – 12 www.regentstone Online products.com (866) 815-9824 Compact/Porcelain/Sintered www.greenbuildexpo.com Surfaces Training Remodeling Show – & Certification Event Reimagined Sponsored by Park Nov. 16 – 18 Industries, LPI, Crossville, Online Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, (800) 681-6970 www.remodelingshow.com Lapitec and MSI Sept. 29 & 30 Coverings Connected Virtual Event Nov. 18 www.isfanow.org Online (888) 599-ISFA (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com

12 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Fabrication Training Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 1 – 2 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Repair Training Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 3 – 4 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com The International Surface Event (TISE) Jan. 26 – 28, 2021 Las Vegas, Nev. (972) 536-6440 KBIS 2021 Feb. 9 – 11, 2021 Orlando, Fla. (800) 465-5514 NAHB International Builder Show (IBS) Feb. 9 – 11, 2021 Orlando, Fla. (202) 266-8184 Coverings Connected Feb. 23, 2021 Online (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com

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

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

Education Connection

Adapting to an Era of Remote Work and Online Supply Channels

By Kyle Carpenter

Unfortunately, 2020 has been the year of

Fortunately some have since returned. Some of

set up. Get a decent chair set at a proper height

knew it will likely never be the same.

while simultaneously working. Despite the

surroundings where possible. A dedicated space

COVID-19, and life and work as we once

Businesses are facing challenges that are at the mercy of forces out of their control, with

many employees being forced to work remotely.

Suppliers across all industries are challenged

us have also become homeschooling teachers challenges, I make it a point to find ways to remain grateful for what I do have.

Working Remotely

at every point of the supply chain to adapt to

While those who must work in the shop or on

continue to operate. End-consumers are stuck at

many who can work from home are doing

scrambling to find ways to cope, and ways to

situation, our patience has been tested, to say

feels as though it may never end, and it’s tiring.

how to work more effectively from your new

ensure their customers’ needs are met and can

jobsites are dealing with a host of new rules,

home with, or sometimes without, their families

just that to help maintain safety. Whatever the

keep life interesting. Frankly, we’re in a crisis that

the least. Hopefully by now, you have learned

Trust me, I feel your pain.

environment. If you are new to remote work, or

So how do we adapt, both professionally and

some pointers based on what worked well for

personally? My familiarity in growing my own remote-based business, and the personal

challenges that have come with it, have provided me with a multitude of experience in dealing with crises of varying nature. And it largely

comes down to awareness of ourselves and

our surroundings, acceptance of our situation, effectively managing communication and expectations, and taking action.

When this all started several months ago,

much of the world’s workforce got kicked out

of the office and into the home, full time. Many who were able to work from home were set

up remotely, and many others lost their jobs.

14 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

are just looking for additional suggestions, I have me and our team, which has worked remotely for more than 10 years. It’s been a journey of

self-discovery in conjunction with learning from others and reading about how to successfully navigate it.

The first step is to create your space. I’ve

experienced a handful of living environments

over the years, so I certainly can’t address them all, but whether you are in a large house with a separate office or a studio apartment working

and minimize distractions in your immediate will get you off to a good start.

My second suggestion is to maintain

strict boundaries with those you live with.

Compassionately convey that this is “work

time,” while also communicating your affections for them (this is important). It is certainly easier said than done, and all of our situations are

different, but I’ve learned that people will respect boundaries if they are clearly defined and

reinforced, which is ultimately your responsibility.

The rewards of focus and respect, which carry into other areas of life, are the result.

The third recommendation is to make sure you’re equipped with the right technology.

We use Gmail for email, Slack for internal

communication, RingCentral for telephone and

video conferencing (Zoom is also popular these days), Dropbox for file-sharing, a web-based

ERP and CRM for team-wide visibility into all customer, order and financial activity. There

are numerous tools out there that offer these

core functionalities, but they are essential to set yourself up for success.

from the kitchen table, you can apply some

Finally, stay connected! I cannot emphasize this

for work, preferably not where you sleep. Also

find as many ways as you can to connect with

basic principles. Create a dedicated space

make sure it is a comfortable and ergonomic

enough. Connection to others is in our DNA, so your co-workers and employees, as well as

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 friends and family. The benefits of connection

communicate that to our customers through our

cooler” channel in our internal messaging

us to set expectations for our customers, but

are numerous. Simple tricks like having a “water platform for writing about unrelated work topics, while often ridiculous are sometimes inspiring.

We religiously schedule time every week to have an all-faces meeting, even if there is nothing

on the agenda. That brief but regular facetime

is critical. Meet with your co-workers regularly

to check in. I often feel like I may be disturbing someone, but they may be feeling the same way, so just make time.

Managing Supply Channels Manufacturers and distributors have been

impacted just as much as the rest of the world, but the demands and expectations on them

have not changed as much. In many cases it has become more difficult to source material

because of the inevitable impact of COVID-19 on suppliers caused by changes in the staff

working remotely, as well as changes to the

in-house working environment to limit exposure to essential employees, such as warehouse personnel.

My experience working remotely with my

company for more than 10 years is that we’ve unintentionally been preparing for this type of environment through the use of web-based communication, software and a suite of

home grown tools. This framework facilitates us to work with our supply chain in much

of the same remote fashion. Being a single-

source, centralized online order desk to these

manufacturers and distributors has taken much of the burden off their staff, and has helped to

streamline the flow of information and inventory to our mutual customers. Our ability to procure products from suppliers in a timely fashion is what makes our customers able to do their

jobs effectively. Each delay in the supply chain magnifies the delay to the end-customer.

Working with more than 50 different supply conduits, ranging from distributors to

manufacturers of sheet material and overseas

product manufacturers, has provided a wealth of knowledge in managing various channels.

These suppliers are spread across multiple

marketing and sales efforts. This not only allows it also alleviates frustration and stress for our

customer support team in dealing with orders and suppliers.

now gone on for months, likely with many more to come. So how do we keep our heads straight, continue to be patient and present with

practice, but it’s never been more important

and professional obligations?

with your suppliers is always good business than now. Utilizing marketplaces and single-

source procurement solutions can also alleviate much of this burden.

Managing Customer Expectations Customers expect more from businesses now

more than ever, even before COVID-19. Amazon and other online marketplaces changed the way consumers shop and have products delivered, increasing the need-it-right-now mentality.

However, how can we possibly keep up with

these customer expectations when we aren’t Amazon, and don’t have products that fit its model?

Companies like Amazon are successful because they manage, and meet, the

customer expectation. If it’s too difficult to

set exact delivery dates and meet them, our

experience is that it is better to under-promise and over-deliver. Expectation setting is even

more critical during a crisis when tensions are

heightened. Being transparent with customers

and letting them know of uncertainties caused by the crisis makes a difference, and many are very understanding if the expectations

are established ahead of time. Also, frequent

communication of the status of an order, even if delayed, is better than leaving a customer wondering what is happening. We’ve never found over-communicating to be met with

negative feedback, in fact, quite the opposite.

Clear communications and expectations

set upfront will ultimately make for repeat customers and referrals. It also creates a

happier sales and customer service team, as they ultimately have to face the brunt of an unhappy customer.

Personal Well-Being

assigned one of our team members to reach

family, children, roommates, chores, a multitude

delays they are facing so that we can clearly

been a little traumatized from this crisis that’s

our families and navigate feelings of anxiety,

These are hard times with a lot of uncertainty.

out to each of our suppliers to understand what

Whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all

Learning to communicate more effectively

states and countries, with each having different guidelines to deal with this crisis. We’ve

can feel disconnected from our work teams.

Many people have to work from home with

of distractions and or conversely feelings of

complete isolation. Even in a full household, we

while also meeting the demands of our work Awareness, acceptance and action.

Those three words carry more power for me than I ever could have imagined. They are part of my daily sanity tool kit. When our team first started working remotely, I struggled with not being in the presence of a team. However, the stress I experienced forced me to learn how to adapt to survive in this new environment, and that is how I can share them with you.

While I could write a whole book on this topic (of which there are and I suggest reading), I will just say that I’ve learned to become aware of what is happening in my mind and body, accept that there are certain things out of my control and focus on what I’m responsible for, taking action on the areas where I can make an impact. I apply these simple, but not always easy, principles to all areas of my personal and professional life, and know firsthand the benefits that come from them.

Even if we will eventually reintegrate into a team setting, we should make the best of our experience while we’re here. Remote work is here to stay for many, and the businesses we work with are going through the same challenges. Managing expectations, communicating effectively, being aware of our behavior, accepting our present situation and taking decisive action to make a difference are all effective tools. Our team, and I, use them on a daily basis to navigate any crisis that comes our way. Applying these may be just what you need to accomplish the tasks at hand.

About the Author Kyle Carpenter is Co-Founder and President of SolidSurface.com, an online supplier and outlet of solid surface sheet material from leading manufacturers such as Corian®, HI-MACS, Avonite, Staron, Wilsonart, Formica, Meganite, Hanex and more. For more information visit www.solidsurface.com or call (888) 715-3007.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 15

In the Industry Wilsonart Acquires Alpine Sales, Inc.

Karran Launches New Website

Wilsonart Engineered Surfaces signed a

Karran, supplier of quality sinks, recently

definitive agreement to acquire Alpine Sales, Inc., a Columbia, S.C.-based wholesale

launched a newly redesigned website at

www.karran.com. It is a dynamic site that is

distributor to the building and remodeling

Gemstone Moves, Doubling Its Production Space

surfaces, postformed countertops, lacquers and

At the end of June Gemstone ceased its

product review and upload a photo if desired.

Ind., where it has been producing solid

and retailers of Karran’s sinks to write honest

for nearly 15 years. Gemstone grew from

simply typing in the sink model number to

ft. in three buildings during that time. With

page and clicking “Write a review” to the right

started production in a new factory at 2040

industry. Alpine Sales distributes decorative stains, and hardware.

The acquisition of Alpine Sales enhances

Wilsonart’s services with three locations in South Carolina and one in North Carolina. Alpine Sales has distributed Wilsonart surfacing products for

more than 40 years. The transaction is expected to close in September.

SolidSurface.com Partners with DuPont Corian To Offer Discontinued and Custom Colors with Discounts for ISFA Fabricators

The company is asking fabricators/installers

surface sinks under the Gemstone brand

reviews for the site. This can be done by

13,000 sq. ft. to approximately 28,000 sq.

review in the search bar, going to the product

a need for even more space, the company

of the main product image.

Industrial Parkway in Elkhart. The new

Cosentino Opens New West Coast Hub

building provides Gemstone 56,000 sq. ft. of

production, warehousing and shipping space.

With the change of address, Gemstone has

also changed its look developing a new logo

of Corian® Solid Surface through its online

became very nervous with the uncertainties

fabricator members, the company is offering

Jeffrey Smith, sales and marketing manager.

wishing to take advantage of the discount must

new facility under one roof where we can now

before placing an order. Non-ISFA fabricators

our customers’ needs.”

the special ISFA member pricing. The company

the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon),

to offer discontinued and custom colors

with the addition of its shower pan line. “We

marketplace at www.solidsurface.com. For ISFA

because of the COVID-19 crisis,” said

exclusive discounted pricing. ISFA members

“However, we are thrilled to be in a beautiful

register as an ISFA fabricator with the company

have so many new opportunities to service

can also order discontinued sheets, but without

and is available on a first-come, first-served

basis. SolidSurface.com’s updated inventory is available online and also includes a variety

Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Utah), and Mid-

Atlantic (Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, DC Metro) regions.

Pearlman Group Names McLendon CEO

of other in-production and discontinued solid surface brands.

Vadara Quartz Announces Territory Expansions

Scott McLendon, an

experienced exec in B2B

Vadara Quartz and Ace Granite have announced

supplies distribution,

an expanded distribution partnership. Under the

is the new CEO of

agreement, Ace Granite, proprietary distributor for Vadara Quartz in Florida, will also be the

dedicated provider in North and South Carolina with their Charlotte, N.C., facility serving

as the hub for these regions. This alliance

focuses on expanding Vadara’s quartz surface line through Ace Granite’s integrated supply

chain and customer-centric sales force. The

expanded agreement further demonstrates both

companies’ willingness to drive growth and build relationships with customers. In addition, Vadara Quartz is actively seeking distributors within

16 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

new feature of this site is the ability to leave a

production at 435 Harrison Street in Elkhart,

SolidSurface.com has partnered with DuPont™

noted that the inventory rotates regularly

both informative and user-friendly. An exciting

Pearlman Group, a

U.S. developer and specialty distributor of supplies, tools and equipment for hard-

surface fabricators. McLendon, who also

joins Pearlman’s board of directors, succeeds outgoing CEO Dan Davidenko. McLendon

Cosentino opened a new Cosentino West

Coast Hub in Vacaville, Calif., just north of San Francisco. One of three in the United

States, the new hub will include more than 157,350 sq. ft. of warehouse and office space, and acts as a central shipping

location for customers in the western United States. The facility catalogs products and acts as a storage center, which in turn,

expedites shipping to regional centers,

home improvement centers, fabricators, and kitchen and bath specialty stores. The new

location also helps meet the growing demand for Cosentino products on the West Coast, which include ultra-compact Dekton®, and

Silestone® quartz surfacing. Other Cosentino locations in California include Cosentino

City Showrooms in Los Angeles and San

Francisco, as well as Cosentino Centers in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco.

The L.E. Smith Company Certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council The L.E. Smith Company, located in Bryan, Ohio, received a national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the

Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBENC).

brings more than 30 years of experience

The certification is WBENC’s national

products and specialty-industrial distribution

including an in‐depth review of the business

as a senior executive with engineered

companies, including Rexel USA, Gexpro

(formerly GE Supply), Allied Electronics and Phoenix Contact.

standard that covers a meticulous process

and site inspection. The certification process

is designed to confirm the business is at least 51 percent owned, operated and controlled

In the Industry by a woman or women. By including women‐ owned businesses among their suppliers, corporations and government agencies

demonstrate their commitment to fostering

diversity and the continued development of their supplier diversity programs.

IWF 2020 Cancels Live Show, Offers Virtual Event The conditions and circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic —

including accompanying travel restrictions and federal, state and local governmental regulations — have made it impossible to stage IWF 2020 without endangering the

health and safety of all exhibitors, attendees

Neolith Achieves Carbon Neutral Status To attain the highly prized carbon neutral

status, Neolith® followed the internationally

recognized Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) and implemented a dynamic, innovationled sustainability strategy coupled with

tactical, high-value carbon off-setting. These measures led to carbon neutrality across

the entire business, with the brand receiving 100 percent of its electricity in the year

2019 from renewable energy sources. This means no less than 7,690 tons of carbon dioxide emissions have been removed.

Also, 90 percent of the waste generated by Neolith is recycled and given a second life

efficiency, particularly the third production line’s furnace, which was had an O2 and pressure control system installed, significantly reducing the amount of gas consumed. This is complemented by a 40 percent reduction of forklift truck diesel use and a 20 percent decrease in hazardous waste. The company also started several environmental projects to compensate for and/or absorb carbon dioxide. Key among them is an upcoming project in Central America to protect and maintain the unique biodiversity of the Guatemalan Caribbean Conservation Coast.

either with company operations or through

Through this project, Neolith will be working

and exhaustive study and consideration

surfaces also embody sustainable principles,

forests and jungles remaining in the region. As

show, IWF will be offering an online event.

slab produced being made from recycled

tons less of carbon dioxide will be created

for five straight days, IWF Connect will

has been upgraded to improve energy

440,000 homes off the grid for a year.

offering the global woodworking and related

BLANCO North America Announces New Executive Team Appointments

and the Atlanta community at large. The

authorized third-party organizations. The

to protect the unique biodiversity of the

by IWF. However, in lieu of the in-person

with up to 48 percent of the weight of each

a direct result of the project activities, 4 million

Starting Monday, October 26, and continuing

material. Additionally, plant machinery

by 2021, the equivalent of taking more than

decision was made after a long, intense

provide access to hundreds of exhibitors

industries’ newest products, technologies, innovations and solutions in one easy-tonavigate online experience. IWF Connect

will allow networking with exhibitors through

BLANCO has made new leadership

demonstrations and attendance of webinars.

American region along with the addition of

live chat and meetings, viewing live product Complimentary registration opens the door to new product discoveries, online events, exclusive deals and much more on your

schedule, and easily organized through your customized My IWF Connect Show Planner.

Registration opens September 1, 2020.

Atlantic Plywood Announces Exclusive Agreement with FENIX

appointments for key executives in its North a new vice president of sales and marketing for the U.S. market. The changes represent

the global organization’s strategic approach to sustainable growth by further increasing

its brand presence and elevating its product portfolio. The BLANCO North America team consists of Jeremy Cressman, U.S. VP of sales and marketing; Wendy McPherson,

Canadian VP of sales and marketing; Edyta

Atlantic Plywood, a wholly-owned subsidiary

Drutis, North American director of brand and

with the addition of FENIX . Created by

director and head of product management;

aesthetic answer to today’s interior design

of finance and administration; and Jake

FENIX is defined by its unique characteristics

of Parksite, has expanded its product mix ®

communications; Tim Maicher, North American

Arpa Industriale, FENIX is a technical and

Mike DiFranco, North American senior VP

trends: smart materials and matte surfaces.

MacDonald, North American director of quality.

such as an extreme matte finish that is anti-

USGBC Develops Pilot Credit for COVID-19 Green Cleaning

repairable, thanks to its innovative surface

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

FENIX features 20 elegant colors and

green building rating system called Safety

materials.

The credit is intended to support buildings

fingerprint and the fact that it is thermally technology. Inspired by Italian tradition,

developed a new pilot credit in the LEED

represents a unique alternative to other

First: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Space.

and spaces as they work to respond to the COVID-19 through sustainable, healthy practices. The credit provides guidance on effectively cleaning and disinfecting buildings using green cleaning best practices that also meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines relative to COVID-19. To earn the credit, among the things facilities must do are create a policy and implement practices that focus on a healthy indoor environment and worker safety.

USGBC is focused on leveraging LEED as a tool to help protect human health and the environment, while also restoring the economy.

The roll-out of this new credit is part of the green building organization’s new economic recovery strategy, called Healthy People in Healthy Places Equals a Healthy Economy.

CMA Provides Election Results The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) announced the results of its annual board of directors election and the installment of their officers for the next year. Members re-elected Matt Wehner of Cabinet Concepts by Design (Springfield, Mo.), and Gregory Paolini of Gregory Paolini Designs (Canton, N.C.) was elected as a new board member. Both will serve three-year terms.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 17

In the Industry In addition, the board appointed the following

to order ATI’s products through distributors,

July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021: Chris Dehmer

industries have not always found a clear

officers who will serve in these roles from

but potential clients outside of commercial

of Dark Horse Woodworks (Atlanta, Ga.) will

path to purchase products the same way.

continue to serve as president; Ken Kumph

of Premier Builders (Georgetown, Mass.) was

Both commercial and residential customers

ChromaLok Adhesives Announces New Hire of Industry Veteran Ray Aleksic

looking for decorative laminates, unique wall

assume the role of secretary. The members-

ChromaLok Adhesives has welcomed

including NuMetal™ high-pressure laminates,

(Maple Ridge, British Columbia); Brian Clancy

to its team. Aleksic has been a part of

nominated to be vice president; James Fox of Fox Woodworking (Phoenixville, Pa.) will serve as treasurer; and Gregory Paolini will at-large are Monika Soos of Sofo Kitchens

seasoned industry veteran Ray Aleksic

of Clancy Woodworking (Sherman, Conn.);

the solid surfacing industry since 1985. A

and Matt Wehner. Exiting the board after six

years including a stint as president is Leland Thomasset of Taghkanic Woodworking (Pawling, N.Y.).

Stone Services Group Welcomes Industry Veteran Dan Lyons Stone Services Group

recognizable face in the industry, Aleksic has worked in every part of it, including sheetmanufacturing, fabrication, distribution, and particularly relevant to his new position,

development into a national organization of commercial countertop installers and

templators. Calling on his experience as a

general contractor, Lyons will initially focus on

tiles, the customizable Fusion line available on many substrates, and LumiSplash™, its

patented ultra-thin, illuminated laminate. Flat rate shipping is available on most orders. In

addition to PayPal, all major credit cards will be accepted.

The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’

navigable and informative website for the

CountertopResource.com Announces Forthcoming Acquisition

of growth and into the next phase of its

MirroFlex™ decorative wall panels and ceiling

knowledge, experience and expertise.

As president, Lyons will

construction to lead SSG through this time

known product lines will be offered online,

Tile of Spain Calls for Awards Entries

division offers project imagery, documents,

utilize his 25 years of experience in commercial

at Shop.ATILaminates.com. All of ATI’s best-

help the company’s customers by sharing his

surfacing adhesives. In his new role he will

(SSG) added Dan Lyons

to its growing workforce.

panels and ceiling tiles can now order online

tools and numerous support services.

CountertopResource.com, an information

portal for countertop professionals working

with any material, announced it has signed a

letter of intent with Resource Publishing, LLC,

the commercial side of the business.

to be acquired for an undisclosed amount. The

HDI Introduces DesignOneSource

web portal at www.countertopresource.

company launched its flagship award-winning com in 2012 and also has a companion

Hardwoods Distribution Inc. (HDI) introduced

website at www.greensurfaceresource.com.

division. This new division is organized to

scheduled to be finalized by the end of 2020,

specification support for decorative surface

However, the company said its main site is

leading global suppliers and front-of-trend

Association (ASCER) is calling for entries for the annual Tile of Spain Awards of

Architecture, Interior Design and Final Degree Project. Sponsored by Endesa and the

Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), the

Tile of Spain Awards have forged a prestigious reputation, promoting the use of Spanish

ceramic tiles in architecture and interior design projects worldwide. The Tile of Spain Awards

have a prize fund of €39,000 ($44,082) shared between three categories. The two main

categories, Architecture and Interior Design,

each have cash prizes of €17,000 ($19,214).

The Final Degree Project award has a cash

prize of €5,000 ($5,625). The panel of judges is also entitled to give two special mentions in each category. Entries from Spain and

DesignOneSource, the new specification

The sale, which includes both properties, is

provide architects and designers seamless

and no staff changes are planned at this time.

materials across North America by aligning

currently undergoing an extensive refinement

interior decor products that adhere to

process and upgrade that will add additional

CERSAIE Postpones 2020 Fair

functionality to it, and it expects to relaunch around the time the purchase is finalized.

After exploring the possibility of holding

the 2020 fair, the organizers of CERSAIE

network, providing instant access to design

ATI Decorative Laminates Launches New E-Commerce Site

recognized the general conditions determined

training and technical product support. The

ATI Decorative Laminates, a supplier of

the show’s usual quality standards. Attention

15 experienced industry professionals,

world of e-commerce in a bid to share its

supplied by 66 distribution centers. An easily

and interior designers have always been able

the highest environmental standards. It is supported by a vast internal information

inspiration, trend insight, vendor coordination, DesignOneSource specification team includes

decorative surfacing solutions, entered the

combined with a broad product offering

products with a wider audience. Architects

18 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

abroad are being accepted through October

23, 2020. More information is available on the organization’s website.

by the COVID-19 pandemic make it impossible to organize an event that would come up to and respect for the interests of the global clientele who represent the show’s most

important asset prompted the decision to skip the 2020 edition that was scheduled

In the Industry for November 9 to 13. Given the desire to continue to improve the quality and

international value of the exhibition, attention is now focused on the next installment of CERSAIE in 2021, which will be held in

Bologna from Sept. 27 to Oct. 1, 2021.

The 2021 event will combine the renewed physical exhibition with an immersive

digital experience aimed at promoting and expanding participation by exhibitors and visitors.

Southco Announces Website Relaunch

before. The new and improved site features a user-friendly design with a fully responsive, clean layout that is compatible with all browsers and mobile devices. Created with the user experience in mind, the redesign includes many new features to help users quickly and easily navigate the site to find applications. The redesigned website is also

Braxton-Bragg Changes Name to BB Industries, LLC

globally accessible and is available in eight

In order to reflect the company’s explosive

the appropriate access products for their

languages in addition to English: German, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Portuguese. Additionally, tools

Southco, Inc., a global provider of

and resources such as CAD downloads,

its completely redesigned and refreshed

studies have been made more readily

Southco is delivering an improved user

support pages.

engineered access solutions, relaunched

technical information, brochures and case

website, southco.com. Through this launch,

accessible through relevant product and

growth in people, products and partnerships, Braxton-Bragg, a respected distributor in the stone industry for nearly three decades, has changed its name to BB Industries (BBI). “As our company has grown and evolved to the point where we are nearly unrecognizable, it is time to mirror that change in our name,” said CEO Rick Stimac. “We feel the BBI image

experience to its customer base, enabling

represents our 26 years of experience, while

their design challenges faster than ever

meet our new objectives.”

mechanical engineers to find solutions to

embracing all of our changes, and striving to

ISFA Member since 2005 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 19

Advice on Handling, Fabricating and Installing

PORCELAIN SLABS

By Roberto Colonetti

This Marble Gray vanity wtih large mitered edges was fabricated from 6mm porcelain glued to a 20mm WEDI foam core backing board.

The virtues of porcelain slabs are numerous, which has led to its growing popularity. The material is light, thin and

tough, making it suitable for nearly any interior project from bathroom sinks and vanities to

shower trays, kitchen countertops and bathtubs.

Because it is lightweight, in can be used in

applications where weight plays a role, such as

yachts, aircraft and recreational vehicles, among many others. It is also highly stain resistant, so

fabricating porcelain and large format porcelain

It’s UV-stable, heat- and frost-resistant, so it can

any natural or engineered stone. However, after

as not to require sealing and is low maintenance. be used outdoors as well.

However, while it has its advantages, there are

slabs was to work with it like I would work with more failures than you can imagine, I decided

Made in 12mm Statuario porcelain with a matte finish, this nearly 20-ft.-long island has a large overhang made possible because the material is so light weight.

I needed to find a new approach. As such, I

some things that any fabricator will need to

started to look deeper to find the best way to

article I hope to share with you some of what I

Cutting

the material.

The first step I took was to learn the cutting

say bad materials, I’m not talking about the print

My first introduction to working with porcelain

process. Cutting porcelain, for some fabricators,

or the finish of them, but rather if the material

could be a real nightmare of a first step, because

is not flat, take warning. A bulge in a porcelain

in this process some very specific rules must

slab will give you MAJOR PROBLEMS. It will

be respected. The first one is that you must

be quite impossible to properly cut slabs that

have a good blade! This can and will make a

are bowed. When you put a slab on the bench

huge difference. A second very important thing

for cutting and you can push it down, you must

to remember is to inspect the material. In many

avoid using this material.

learn before working with the material. In this

have learned over my 15 years of working with

was around 2005. At that time we were trying

to make vanities out of tiles. I can tell you with great certainty that I have come a long way since then.

As a stonemason my first approach to

work with the material.

20 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

years of now working with porcelain slabs, I’ve seen many good materials, but at the same time I’ve also seen numerous bad materials. When I

This 18-ft. island in Calacatta porcelain has a glossy finish and full drop-down ends.

The countertop behind it is made of the same material and includes a cooktop and sink.

Both use material that is only 6mm thick, which use WEDI foam core backing board and mitered edges.

During the cutting process, with most brands (but not all, as there are some manufacturers that have developed methods to produce

stress-free slabs), it is very important to remove

the tension in the slabs all around the perimeter.

This is usually done by making relief cuts as specified by the suppliers.

Of key importance slabs MUST BE FLAT.

Remember, as well, that the surface upon

which you are performing the cutting the slabs

must also be flat. In some cases I use a kind of foam to allow for less vibration when cutting a

slab. A very flat cutting bed is critical because if the surface is uneven, when you saw the slab,

a portion of the material would likely drop down before the blade reaches the end of the cut,

causing it to crack. Pay close attention to this because it is extremely important.

In terms of blades now on the market, there are many blades suitable for use. I always prefer to use as small of a blade as I can

because smaller blades create less vibration, and therefore produce a better cut. Another

important thing is getting the right amount of

water on the blade during sawing. Some people do not realize how high the temperature can reach when you cut porcelain.

Questions regarding speed can always be related back to the quality of the blade.

Some blades will have to be sharpened more often than others, but this is not necessarily synonymous with a poor quality blade.

Another system that can be used to cut

porcelain is a waterjet. While these machines are more expensive compared to a saw, they

will allow for faster speeds and can obviously be optimized for the cutting process; plus

they will allow you to cut any shape. However, just with sawing, it is critical for the bed to be flat. Keep in mind that during processes like

mitering using a waterjet, the more accurate

the mapping process of your probe is, the more perfect your miter will be. For the best results, all of the mapping should be done before

making any cut because the slab will still be

clean. Once cutting starts you risk having sand

the water is highly filtered. This will ensure

you get a long life on both your orifice and

your pump. Dirty water can damage a waterjet orifice very quickly.

This island in Statuario porcelain and a matte finish has a fully integral sink that mimics the farmhouse look, and uses material only 6mm thick with foam core backing board and mitered edges.

Adhesives Beyond the cutting process, there are things

that must be learned regarding other parts of the fabrication of porcelain. In many ways, it can be like fabricating natural stone, but in

some ways there are certainly differences. In

addition to blades specifically made for sawing it, the adhesive used must be designed for use with porcelain.

give enough strength to the material. For this reason, there are many types of foam that you can use, as well as several types of glue. Both of these must be chosen very carefully so as to ensure the longevity of the end product. Some fabricators prefer to use thinset mortar, while others will use an epoxy glue. Both are OK, but in a situation that you’re going to glue porcelain

or grit on top that could change measurement

For instance, in fabricating elements using

on any expandable material, such as MDF for

consideration with the waterjet is to make sure

will need to be made in such a manner as to

incurring problems after the installation.

during the mapping. Another very important

thin porcelain of less than 12mm, the structure

example, you must use an elastic glue to avoid International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 21

This highly-custom vanity made from 6mm Calacatta Gold porcelain has a joint on the left where book matching is done at the joint because of its length.

The coverage of the glue on any kind of

substrate must be nearly 99 percent. The

adhesive used on a miter is almost the same, in that the correct glue will provide assurance to

avoid problems in the future. I’ve seen beautiful jobs installed that, after a while, suffer from

material cracking. The proper substrate and right glue play an important part during this

process. As with cutting, when making anything using porcelain, you must keep an eye on the

surface, checking it regularly to make sure it is straight and level during all processes.

Also, if you are fabricating something for an outdoor application, make sure your

glue has been developed for use in outdoor

This unique island made of 12mm Statuario with a matte finish moves up and down with the push of a button to serve either as a working countertop or more like a large coffee table.

Polishing and Installation In regard to polishing, the process is very comparable to polishing stone. Use a

sufficient amount of water and high-quality

polishing pads. Additionally, a few companies have developed special kits to repair light

scratches on the surfaces of porcelain, which can be useful if there are any damages.

The installation process is obviously the

last, and a particularly important part, of the overall process. When you have to install

something like a kitchen countertop, there

are a number of important aspects to keep in mind. Just as when cutting the material,

environments. Consider all the elements – rain,

when installing it, it is critical it remains level

to hold up to expansion and contraction. I

importance that the cabinetry that will hold

because the adhesive chosen was not correct

should have solid support, especially where

sun, etc., and use a glue that is elastic enough

and well supported. As such, it is of great

have seen fascia fall off after only a short time

the tops is level. Additionally, all cutouts

for the project.

you may have a joint. Also, I always prefer to

Regarding the miter, you can perform a simple test to check the strength of the glue in the

miter joint. Simply glue the pieces together and

leave an allowance between the walls and

porcelain to avoid future problems if there is

or above do not require substrate, but we still use it to buildup things above that thickness.

As a final thought, watch for and keep up to

date with the latest products and procedures for handling, cutting, gluing, polishing and

installing porcelain slabs, as well as any other

aspect of working with this material. It is likely more and more attention will be paid to the

development of these products as it continues to increase in popularity.

About the Author Roberto Colonetti is a global expert on porcelain with 20 years of experience working with the material. While born and raised in Italy, he currently resides in Australia fabricating porcelain to create functional works of art while also speaking on the subject and training others on porcelain fabrication best practices. For more information, he can be reached at robertocolonetti@gmail.com or via www. colonettiroberto.com. Colonetti will soon be moving to the United States to work for Moderno Porcelain in Houston (www.modernoworks.com).

any expansion.

after the cure time try to break it. If the pieces

One other significant thing to remember is that

strong enough. If the pieces break the porcelain

means treating it different than that which

glue is a suitable one. Also, on thin porcelain it

more attention during the cutting process and

the pieces, especially on the seams.

substrate to support it. Thicknesses of 12mm

will break apart at the glue joint, it means it isn’t

using thin porcelain, such as 3.5mm or 6mm,

and keep the miter joint hold in position, the

is 12mm or thicker. Thin porcelain requires

is always a good thing to allow a gap between

fabrication because of the fact you need a

22 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ISFA will be hosting an online porcelain training/certification event Sept. 29 and 30.

Please see Page 38 for more details.

ISFA Member since 2020

CountertopResource.com CountertopResource.com, launched in 2012, is

Software, Templating & Technology Spotlight

always available. Visit more jobsites in

less time for superior, more profitable results. Digitally integrate templating

the most comprehensive information portal for

with office inventory and job management

countertop fabricators and related

systems, as well as shop equipment.

professionals. With daily updates including new

Additional software licenses are not required to

products, industry news, articles, videos, blog

posts, safety resources and much more, it is a critical outlet for the industry. The award-

winning website is currently undergoing a major upgrade to make it even more user-friendly and offer additional features. Sign up for its monthly newsletter at www.countertopresource.com to

have all of the latest information relevant to your business sent directly to your inbox, or even sign up for daily posts.

See our ad on Page 35

EaseEdge by Sarto In less than six years, Sarto Countertops had

grown from $300,000 to more than $6 million in business, with automation equipment greatly

ETemplate Systems ETemplate Systems now offers an “ELaser Xpress Subscription,” a version of the templating system based on making quarterly payments to better manage the cost. The Xpress Subscription lowers the initial investment, and also includes software updates and a laser head warranty over the life of the subscription. Standard features include accuracy of 1mm for a standard space, automated functions for creating countertop templates more quickly, a compact design, digital leveling, enhanced speed, digital leveling and large icons. Basic operation consists of simply setting it up, shooting the points and hitting enter.

A finished template that includes dimensions, offsets, overhangs, radii, splashes, etc. is then created for quick and easy export for fabrication.

improving its shop processes. However, the

friendly so those in the field can get the

information they need. A free trial is available at easededge.com.

24 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

toolpaths, maximizes material yield with True Shape Nesting and generates CNC machine

code [G code] for CNC routers. It provides both production speed and agility. Custom one-off pieces are easily modified in the KCD Parts Viewer. One click lets users add cut-outs,

LPI

the table. The software dubbed EaseEdge is

powerful, but also easy to use and mobile

KCD’s Commander calculates and optimizes

design to manufacturing needs.

headaches, inefficiencies and leaving money on

company can use. It was designed to be

with KCD Software’s One-Button Machining.

equipment, software tie-ins and tools for unique

everyone in the company could use to reduce

an affordable option that everyone in a

Go direct from design to CNC manufacturing

to provide suitability with a large selection of

As such, it developed a modern software that

There are no additional costs per user, making it

KCD Software

rest. KCD partners with hundreds of companies

platforms from multiple software subscriptions.

drawing, scheduling and automated job tasks.

which include a laptop, camera and markers.

holes, dados and more, and then nest with the

and job management, while cobbling together

includes job management, estimating, invoicing,

Simply order additional ORGANIZE Field Kits,

change the part shapes, move and remove

company was struggling with communications

now available to other fabricators, and it

expand PHOTOTOP 5 to additional templaters.

Fabricator’s Choice

Fabricator’s Choice PHOTOTOP 5® now has even more capabilities for serious fabricators.

New features include Auto-Create Miter Strips, Auto-Create Lamination and Auto-Dimension On PDF Output. Now with ORGANIZE®, it provides immediate on-site confirmation and file delivery of the highly detailed templates.

Professional training and online support are

LPI’s LT-2D3D Laser Templator has CNC

integration capabilities designed for quick,

seamless file transfer to

numerous brands of CNC equipment. Files are set up specifically to work

using each brand’s requirements, meaning faster fabrication through less rework or other

modifications. Because of the specific

Prodim

and empowers

suppliers recommend the system. Plus, the

The Prodim

early in the

See our ad on Page 19

measuring

integration capabilities, many respected CNC

consumers

Proliner

LT-2D3D is made in the United States.

sales process

to both design

tool creates

their dream

very accurate digital

templates in a fast and easy way. Prodim Factory

software maintains high quality and ease of use

Moraware

while preparing digital templates for production

Software made by Moraware is designed to

templators and fabricators to design their

and more. The latest improvements enable

meet the needs of countertop fabricators. The company’s CounterGo estimating software

projects while making use of views in 2-D and 3-D. The software will help prevent mistakes

assists thousands of fabricators to

beforehand by alerting the operator when

professionally draw, layout and quote

countertops in minutes. It’s fast and consistent output is designed to increase sales and close rates so users can grow their business.

problems occur, like the collision of solids. This allows for eliminating all uncertainty before installment.

kitchen or

bath, and create a fast and accurate quote, all

before stepping into a showroom or speaking to a salesperson. The software is easily integrated into and promoted on company websites,

social media platforms, digital advertising and email marketing. Recent software updates provide greater value for consumers and

fabricators alike, including full e-commerce

transactions that include contracts, checkout and payments; 4K images and renderings;

additional room templates; an expanded library of stones and other products; associated items and gallery images; instant quoting by square foot or slab; kiosk integration and more.

Additionally, Moraware’s Systemize scheduling software continues to help users grow by

preventing expensive mistakes and increasing

communication both with customers and in the

shop. Visit moraware.com for more information.

QuickQuote by Crystallyne QuickQuote Countertop Software from

Slabsmith

and laying out countertops easier and faster

highly accurate and detailed through

interface that creates a fully labeled scale

slabs are true to life in both color and

flexible pricing system offers multiple pricing

properties of the original slab that was

material can be quoted, and it provides the

and are used to create 3-D visual layouts for

particular business. Quotes can be printed

immediately saved into Slabsmith’s SQL

provides fabricators the tool to capture slab

exported to a number of different formats such

in a company to easily locate and view the

small footprint requirement. The SIDE-SHOT

QuickBooks . The built-in schedule provides a

properties of the slab. Its layout tools allow for

matching and 3-D rendering. The equipment

fabrication to installation, and the internal slab

accuracy of digital slabs, view a vein-matched

slabs for more accurate material counts. For

Crystallyne makes quoting, drawing, scheduling

Slabsmith™ produces digitized slabs that are

than ever. It features a uniquely intuitive

proprietary calibration techniques. The digital

drawing side by side with every quote. Its

dimension, and contain all of the relevant

methods to choose from so virtually any

photographed. The digital slabs are inventoried

option to customize items and services to fit a

customers. When a digital slab is created it is

The all new SIDE-SHOT by Park Industries

alongside the drawings on a single page,

database. This provides the ability for anyone

images right at the machine with an extremely

as .PDF, and transferred directly to

slabs in inventory based on any of the

Park Industries ™

®

®

place to keep track of everything from

easy optimization for aesthetics or yield. The

allows the user to capture high dimensional

inventory lets users lay out the parts on the

that are customized for the specific needs of

project preview before cutting the material

more information and a free trial of QuickQuote

(up to two slabs), and utilize common line

visit quickquotecountertops.com

SolidSurface.com

cutting to optimize material yield with the

ability to communicate with multiple cameras

Quote Countertops

(great for twin table machines). An upgrade to

colors of Corian® Solid Surface through its

the full Slabsmith™ Basic Bundle is available

Quote Countertops is a sales and marketing,

online marketplace. Inventory rotates regularly

at any time.

lead-generating software that modernizes the

way consumers shop for and buy countertops.

and is available on a first-come, first-served

The web-based, white-label software engages

basis. SolidSurface.com is an online supplier

incorporates Slabsmith™ Lite software for vein

See our ad on Page 7

Perfect Match™ layout module provides tools

users to efficiently layout countertops.

SolidSurface.com has teamed up with

Dupont™ to offer discontinued and custom

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 25

and outlet of solid surface sheet material from leading manufacturers such as Corian®, HI-MACS, Avonite, Staron, Wilsonart, Formica, Meganite, Hanex and more. Fabricators not only now have access to full lines of inproduction colors, they’ll find significant cost savings in the often hard-to-find discontinued and overstock full, and partial, sheet material.

Powerful search tools allow filtering by brand, color, pattern, size and price. The company also offers a selection of accessories, including color-matched adhesives, tooling and sinks. It also include ProFinder, a free listing service for fabricators that is a resource for specifiers and homeowners to locate local fabricator professionals. Request special fabricator pricing at www.solidsurface.com/contact/.

SPEEDdraw SPEEDdraw is made to expedite turning digital measuring files into completed shop drawings and program-ready files. Whether using a field measurer or a CAD draftsman to finalize your dxf files, SPEEDdraw produces a final shop ticket and creates program ready files in 50 to 75 percent of the time. The system was developed by countertop fabricators for countertop fabricators.

SPEEDlabel SPEEDlabel® is made to track countertops in a shop to maintain accountability for quality control, piece by piece. SPEEDsnip® can create individual parts from a CAD drawing, and parts are automatically named and uploaded to the job within Moraware. There

are customized label designs to choose from including top, bottom and edge formats.

User-defined information automatically pulls from Moraware and eliminates the need for data entry. Customized data fields allow pertinent job information (i.e. install date, edge profile, etc.). SPEEDlabel also provides a quick understanding of the status of every part in the shop and helps ensure entire jobs is kept together. The customized labels are tear- and water-proof, with specially formulated adhesive that sticks to countertops in harsh environments, yet still comes off with ease.

Stone Grid USA The StoneApp ERP System by Stone Grid USA is a comprehensive, simple-to-use and powerful software system built for efficiency. It allows users to enter leads, move to a quote, promote

ISFA Member since 2012

26 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

to a job, manage material, create schedules and assign production resources without repetitive data entry. Users can also control margins through price books, built-in cost analysis and commission structures. It is made to reduce errors and manage production with scheduling, parts tracking, field applications and capacity tools. Users can manage purchasing and inventory with reconciliation and valuation reporting tools. It also syncs with QuickBooks and Sage to eliminate data entry time and errors, Slabsmith to bring in photos, and Quote Countertops to work leads.

Stone Profit Systems Stone Profit Systems provides an all-in-one, end-to-end, user-friendly software for the natural stone, tile, quartz and solid surface industries. The ERP system works to manage

all aspects of a business, allowing complete visibility to help companies work efficiently while improving profitability. The software has modules for accounting, estimating, holds, inventory management, purchasing, quotations, reports, sale and scheduling. It is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to meet the complex needs of distributors, fabricators and manufacturers.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 27

ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: Front range stone

Front Range Stone Inc. began with the idea of taking advantage of the granite boom that was taking place as the industry moved into 2000.

However, as it grew, it focused not only on advanced technology and providing high-quality service, but also on product diversity.

Building the Business In May of 2001 Brad Pearce and Clark Lechner started Front Range Stone, operating out of a 2,500-sq.-ft. shop in Englewood, Colo., and

fabricating only granite. Pearce and Lechner

had met working previously for a solid surface

countertop business in Denver and decided to make a jump to start the granite business.

With only seven employees to begin with, the company put its focus on technology and production processes that would lead to

growth and putting out top-quality products.

Within just two years of opening its doors,

Front Range was able to make its first major equipment purchase in the form of a Park Industries Tru Edge line polisher. “Our

business has grown over the years and

technology has played an enormous part of

Park Industries Fusion 4245 Sawjets, six Park Titan CNCs, and a Park Industries Saber 5-axis CNC Bridge Saw. Without the

investment in automation and process, our

growth capabilities would have been greatly reduced.”

However, the ability to invest in that amount of high-quality, high-production machinery didn’t happen overnight. The company worked hard

and expanded multiple times to get where it is today. “In 2007 Front Range started back into the solid surface business to support our

builders and box store customers,” explained Pearce, “and in 2012 we made an acquisition

of a postform laminate countertop business to

round out our assortment and to better service our customer base.”

Measuring, cutting and design technologies

our most recent purchases in 2018 of two

Range, so the entire process is digital, more

Titan CNC machines,” said Pearce, president

Starting in 2001 with just a 2,500-sq.-ft. shop, Front Range Stone now has two locations, including this 31,000-sq.-ft. hard surfaces shop.

of the company. “We currently operate three

our success. Park Industries has been an

excellent partner since our first purchase to

By Kevin Cole, Editor

have all been consistently upgraded at Front efficient and profitable. In 2010, Front Range

28 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Brad Pearce, president of Front Range Stone, started with a background in solid surface, but founded the company in 2001, along with Clark Lechner, to take advantage of the granite boom.

While the company originally started out fabricating only granite, over the years quartz surfacing projects, such as this beautiful island fabricated from Coffee Brown Silestone, has become 65 to 70 percent of the hard surfacing work Front Range Stone handles.

Stone went through the NSI Accreditation process, and was the first fabricator in

Colorado to earn that distinction, which

provides guidelines for fabricators on financial aptitude, shop safety/OSHA regulations, and fabrication and installation standards.

“The shop’s advanced technology allows us to offer a quick turn-around time from the day of template/measure for all product lines,”

explained Pearce. “Front Range Stone also has the ability to show our customers how

their countertop project will look before we cut it with our automated process, giving them an exact picture of the finished product.” All of

these things have led the company to be one of the largest fabricators in the state, with

customers covering its entirety. The business

has more than 150 employees today and now operates out of two facilities in Englewood: a 31,000-sq.-ft. hard surfaces shop and a

20,000-sq.-ft. solid surface and laminate facility.

Diversified Products and Pathways to Market

Part of the company’s success can be

attributed to its willingness to meet customer

demands in whatever form that takes, as well as utilizing various B2B pathways to market.

“From the beginning we have believed the

more products we can fabricate and install,

the better connection we have with all of our customers,” said Pearce.

As such, the company now offers granite and other natural stone, quartz surfacing, solid

surface, compact surfaces, recycled materials and laminate. It also offers tear-out and

plumbing disconnection and reconnection services as value-added options.

While hard surfaces remain the company’s top products, with it producing and installing on average 38,500 sq. ft. per month, 65 to 70

In 2007 Front Range started back into the solid surface business to support builders and box store customers, as is evidenced by this finely-crafted Corian© island, and in 2012 made an acquisition of a postform laminate business. Today it has a 20,000-sq.-ft. solid surface and laminate facility, separate from its hard surfaces shop. products are Cosentino, LG Hausys and

historically between 12 and 15 percent of the

Cambria.”

company’s total revenue, whereas laminate

The company also produces and installs 7,000

represents about 8 percent.

percent is now quartz surfacing. “Quartz

sq. ft. of solid surface and 6,250 sq. ft. of

Front Range Stone also diversifies the ways it

laminate on average each month as well.

goes to market, handling both residential and

said Pearce. “Our largest suppliers of quartz

Pearce estimates that solid surface is

commercial projects, with the latter

continues to drive the hard surface market,”

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 29

While at first only fabricating granite, Front Range Stone has grown to fabricate all of the major surfacing materials, including marble, soapstone, quartz surfacing, solid surface, compact surfaces, recycled materials and laminate.

representing roughly 25 to 30 percent of its

overall business. “We service all segments of the market including kitchen and bath

designers, millworks, architects, engineers, builders, general contractors and big box stores,” explained Pearce.

By making sure the company is diversified in

both its product offerings and customer types, it helps to ensure that it is not reliant too

heavily on any one segment of the industry.

The variety of products and services also

helps to keep its customers happy and coming back as a one-stop location for all of their

surfacing needs. However, the company also

relies on honing its skills and providing quality products to keep the pipeline of projects full.

Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future

When asked about the company’s philosophy for success, Pearce said, “We have always excelled by delivering a quality product on

time, which is supported by a very specific scheduling process to ensure on-time

production and delivery/installation. We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and quality craftsmanship.”

Pearce attributes some of the successes the company has had in maintaining excellence

to networking and information sharing efforts.

“I have always found being involved in

industry organizations a huge necessity to

ongoing learning and growth of the business.

I am fortunate to be a member of The Artisan Group, Rockheads, ISFA and NSI – all of

these have provided many platforms and

relationships to share best practices,” he expounded. “Get involved with industry

groups and don’t be afraid to discuss key

performance indicators with others and strive for improvement every day.”

He also had some thoughts on the pandemic and the current economic environment, 30 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

The company has driven growth by taking advantage of advanced technology, and today has three Park Industries Fusion 4245 Sawjets, six Park Titan CNCs, and a Park Industries Saber 5-axis CNC Bridge Saw.

saying, “We all went through a gut check in March not knowing what the business

climate was going to put us all through; we have been fortunate that we have seen a continued demand in all of our business

segments. I am optimistic that the market will

strengthen as we go through the remainder of the year. Trends with new home sales, as well as remodeling projects at this point look positive as we move towards 2021.

“I feel we need to continue to be more

relevant via online opportunities,” added Pearce. This is why, in the wake of the

uncertainty that does exist, Front Range

Stone has invested in its website. This seems to be an ongoing trend during a time when

people are more likely to conduct research and make purchasing decisions based on information available online vs. in person.

Pearce said the business has partnered with

other various leading-edge tech companies in the industry to make online transactions

easier, allow web-based project quoting, and reviewing the slab and even remnant inventories online.

When asked what advice he might offer to

other fabricators, Pearce said, “If you aren’t

growing you are dying; never be complacent in the pursuit of improvement and greatness

Stone will still be here going strong and ready to take on whatever comes its way.

to the level it is at today, it is certainly fair to

For more information on Front Range Stone, contact Brad Pearce by email at brad@frontrangestone. com or phone at (303) 761-4257, or visit www. denvergranitecountertop.com.

whatever that may look like, Front Range

Editor Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfanow. org.

for your business.” With the intelligent moves the company has made over the years to get believe when things return to normalcy,

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.

(888) 599-ISFA www.ISFAnow.org

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 31

Some engineered stone companies have been working to tackle issues related to sustainability.

Their use of renewable bio-resins that are UV-stable, better allow for their use in outdoor applications, such as this kitchen fabricated from Diresco quartz.

EMBRACING A CRYSTALLINE RENAISSANCE

The changing face of quartz

By Paul Max Le Pera and Jessica McNaughton Since the early 2000s, the engineered stone (quartz surfacing) industry has experienced positive, profitable and prolific growth, globally. Relatively speaking, quartz surfacing embraces many attributes that continue to fuel its popularity and specification. That said, the category has also undergone some severe challenges in recent years, necessitating a sort of renaissance to ensure its sustainability.

Charles Darwin said, “In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.” This statement essentially refers to the No. 1 skill of survival

The Renaissance was a period in history marking the transition from the Middle Ages to Modernity and was a time marked by genius and notable change. Cultural norms, values and even

technology underwent sustainable reformation

– adaptation. It seems that living and being

fueled by rejuvenation.

reside on a fluid foundation. That is to say, just

Now take a look at 2020, a new decade

when you think you are rooted in place, the medium around you begins to move, shift and mutate. Inaction can be as deadly as wrong action, and therefore those businesses who are constantly taking the pulse of cultural norms, personal values and technologies are those best

launched with nearly unprecedented instability: pandemic, potentially life-changed elections,

geo-political tensions, unemployment and racial tensions, just to name a few. The concurrence

of these significant dynamics has, for many, led to an ever-present feeling that the global tide of

brings us back to the point that adaptation is

the top survival skill, and that applies to not only animals, but also businesses.

We can be highly encouraged by several

organizations within the surfacing industry that

are adjusting their rudders as industry currents shift. Many firms are making a distinct effort to embrace sustainability, a movement that

has been re-energized and is rapidly gaining

increased global attention. The term essentially focuses on finding greener alternatives so as not to deplete natural resources and whose

connotation is simple: finding ways to do things that last.

Engineered stone/quartz surfacing, with

its continued growth in popularity among

specifiers, such as architects, designers and

even homeowners, is not immune from a host

of changing conditions that require adaptation.

Prime among these are the hefty tariffs that have been placed on Chinese quartz, ailing global

poised to adapt when the underlying current of

Darwinism is shifting again.

being begins to shift and, it indeed has. We are

That said, we know that change is woven into

re-emergence, of engineered stone’s greatest

thing we can be certain will not change is the

forefront of the product category’s challenges, it

beginning to see a 21st century renaissance and this bodes very well for not only the quartz industry but for all of the surfacing categories.

the fabric of the human race, and the only

fact that everything will eventually change. This

32 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

economies and the emergence, or arguably the hazard, silicosis. With these factors at the

is most certainly experiencing a fluid foundation

The use of newer bio-resins that are free of cobalt allow for the easier development of complex veined patterns when used in quartz surfacing.

shift, necessitating sustainable adaptation. This adaptation will come from numerous avenues with the market ultimately being the judge of what will last.

First among the challenges quartz surfacing has been facing are the anti-dumping and

countervailing duties placed on imports from China. These tariffs range as high as 500

percent, making the abundant supply available there far less attractive. However, this is not

necessarily a bad thing. While for a short time in 2019 it may have had a slight effect on the availability from some suppliers, ultimately it

helped drive the start-up of more lines in North America. This not only created jobs in more

local economies to help defer the economic

downturn in the industry, but it also lessened the carbon footprint caused by shipping

material from such long distances. There are now more quartz surfacing production lines

operating in North America than ever before.

Additionally, resins that are used in the

formulation of engineered stone are most often petroleum based, thereby helping to deplete

finite natural resources. Also, some of the resins used may be difficult to recycle or dispose of in a sustainable fashion.

A larger issue that seems to be playing a role within engineered stone circles is silicosis, a

lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of crystalline silica, often referred to as respirable

crystalline silica. Tragically, there is currently no

known cure. Acute, chronic or accelerated cases can lead to lung cancer, tuberculosis, chronic

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other

dangerous breathing disorders for which the best current hope is to manage the symptoms, but eradication or reversal is not an option.

crystalline silica mitigation/elimination is a constant source of study, innovation

and enforcement for machine and tool

manufacturers and shop owners alike. However, consistent with the sustainability movement, there may be some engineered stone

formulation alternatives to mitigate, or possibly eliminate the respirable silica hazard.

When it comes to sustainability and engineered stone there are opportunities to modify the

formulation to be eco-friendlier. As mentioned above, there are two primary areas. One is in

the resin used in its manufacture and the other is the crystalline silica content.

At the highest level, we are seeing innovations from the resin companies, such as INEOS

Composites. They have unsaturated polyester

resins that are made from renewable resources instead of finite resources, meaning they replace the petroleum-based resins with

bio-based raw materials without affecting the physical or handling properties of the resin.

Their Envirez resins were among the first on the market in the category. INEOS was also one

The GEOS resin-based recycled glass surface shown here uses larger, terrazzo-like recycled glass aggregates instead of quartz helping lower the amount of crystalline silica versus other engineered stones.

As far as innovations in quartz products themselves, there are several brands on the market that have started to pivot and adopt more sustainable practices.

of the first movers on Cobalt-Free Technology,

Diresco, a Belgian company founded by a

the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) was

pioneer and adopter of the Bio-UV resin

and reproductive toxicants. Most resin systems

bio-based resin was needed, and the company

proper cure in a quartz slab. INEOS introduced

based sources instead of petroleum. The resin

degree of curing in the slab without issues.

of applications for Diresco, which combines the

Now a global issue and arguably gaining

of it allows for better color control, enabling

options from traditional quartz to more veined

silicosis is a very hot topic. Respirable

in slabs.

Silicosis has been known about for decades and is not endemic to the fabrication of

engineered stone, and yet because of the high percentage of quartz within the product, the

hazard is significant and the risks are very real.

Classified as a human carcinogen in 2000,

crystalline silica dust has been found in various

other products, such as natural stone, concrete, ceramic and brick.

momentum, the current of change in managing

which became increasingly important when

father and son team in 2003, was an early

looking to classify cobalt salts as carcinogens

technology. Diresco recognized that a better

recommend cobalt salts in order to get a

created one using readily renewable plant-

a cobalt-free technology that gets the same

is highly UV stable, allowing for a broader range

Also, since cobalt is dark in color, the removal

resin with quartz to create a variety of design

better veining patterns and even translucency

and terrazzo looking styles. Diresco reclaims and recycles all water used in its manufacturing International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 33

The recently released Obsidiana product from Compac (pictured here in Volcano Pearl) has tackled the issue of silicosis head-on by largely exchanging the use of crystalline silica with amorphous silica, whose dust does not cause adverse health problems. The product contains less than 7 percent crystalline silica, drastically decreasing the chance of silicosis from the fabrication process. It is made using 100 percent recycled glass and minerals as well as UV-stable bio-resin, and is also 100 percent recyclable.

process, generates its own electricity through

material 15 to 25 percent recycled content. It

is also 100 percent recyclable. The material is

wind and solar technologies, and because of

thermoformable as well, making it somewhat

the nature of the Bio-UV resin, all manufacturing

of a hybrid between standard quartz and solid

byproduct waste is repurposed for soil

surface. The company claims it is 50 percent

control and road construction throughout

stronger than composite stone, and is offered

Belgium rather than being sent to landfills. In addition, Diresco can be recycled back into production and used as new particulate in its Terrazzo line.

Sustonable, an engineered stone manufactured in Turkey, opts for a recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) binder, making the

and allows the use of thinner materials without the drawback of breakage caused by impacts.

The recently released Obsidiana product from Compac, which is manufactured in Spain, also

in 6mm, 8mm and 1cm thicknesses. Unlike

uses the Bio-UV resin mentioned previously.

continuous extrusion process, which is said to

using amorphous silica instead of crystalline

waste that is generated can be recycled back

with crystalline silica, does not pose the health

be less brittle than some of its contemporaries,

claims to be both recycled and recyclable and

other products, Sustonable is formed from a

Obsidiana has tackled the issue of silicosis by

reduce waste versus batch processes, and any

silica. Amorphous silica, unless contaminated

into the process. The product is designed to

risks associated with crystalline silica. Obsidiana

ISFA Member since 2018 34 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

which makes cutting and transporting it easier

uses up to 100 percent recycled glass and

GEOS, which is another resin-based recycled

minerals in its composition with a sustainable

glass surface is a product that uses a polymer-

manufacturing process as well. The product

based resin with larger, terrazzo-like recycled

contains less than 7 percent crystalline silica,

glass aggregates instead of quartz. This helps

decreasing the chance of silicosis from the

lower the amount of crystalline silica versus other

fabrication process. The company claims that

engineered stones. GEOS has recently revamped

the product cuts 30 percent faster than standard

its color line, is 55 to 75 percent recycled glass

quartz, and there is no inherent tension in

by weight, and is available in both 2cm and 3cm

the material like there is with many ceramics.

thicknesses.

existing product, or a “new and improved”

IceStone, which is made in Brooklyn, N.Y., from

growth. Those who are able to pivot and adapt

Thicknesses range from 7mm to 30mm.

Obsidiana was recognized with the Sustainability Award at KBIS 2020.

100 percent recycled glass and cement instead of quartz, recently improved upon its petroleum-

While the focus of this article has been the

free recipe. New IceStone incorporates process

changes that have been taking place in the

steps that improve the performance of the

quartz surfacing, similarities can be found within

product, retaining its sustainability story, but also

the recycled glass category of hard surfaces,

increasing its stain resistance and durability. This

which are akin to engineered stone.

improved version also is UV stable, making it

Curava is an engineered stone that contains

suitable for outdoor applications.

approximately 30 percent quartz. This is

There has definitely been some visionary re-

significantly less than many quartz surfaces,

strategizing in the engineered stone arena, and

which typically contain in the range of 90 percent

it will be interesting to see how the market will

quartz, meaning it contains a lesser amount of

embrace these innovations. The omnipresent

crystalline silica. The remainder of its make-up

increasing pressure for business and industry

is about 60 percent post-consumer and post-

to embrace renewable energy and sustainable

industrial recycled glass and roughly 10 percent

practices will only add to the options and best

resin binder.

practices here.

Quartz and all other engineered Surfaces

are projected to increase in market share as their formulations can be adjusted to meet

the growing practical and social needs. The

renaissance we are witnessing in the surfacing industry is being heavily influenced by the

growing sustainability movement, and whether it is a new surfacing category, a variant of an

formulation, change can be a springboard for

will be those more firmly rooted when the tide once again ebbs.

About the Authors Jessica McNaughton, a former ISFA board member, is president of CaraGreen, a curator and distributor of best-in-class sustainable materials based in Raleigh, N.C. CaraGreen offers healthy alternatives to traditional building materials and serves as an educator on industry issues that have a human or environmental health impact, with several education courses on the latest green building standards and trends in the industry. She can be reached via email at jessica@caragreen.com or on the web at www.caragreen.com.

Paul Max Le Pera is president of Global Surfacing Alliance LLC, a global marketing, business consulting and product sourcing firm specializing in proprietary products and disruptive technologies. He is also on the ISFA Board of Directors and can be reached at PMax@ GlobalSurfacingAlliance.com.

ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 35

Here.Now.News.

From the Desk of Nancy Busch, Executive Director

Focus for the Future “The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee It is Friday morning of my first week serving

ISFA. As you can imagine, my head is filled with learning, teaching, watching and dreaming.

However, I had to dig deep to find inspiration and focus on what to share in my very first message to you. In fact, it takes laser-like focus to be successful at anything.

Our previous executive director, Amy Miller, wrote to you about unplugging and giving the gift of

your presence to others last December. She has

positively set the stage for me with that message, as with much of her great work for ISFA and I would like to expand on that. Taking time for

personal focus is also critical. I have always used the analogy with my children that when you are

accomplish more. In bull riding, for example, eight seconds are all that are required to qualify.

The intensity of risk gives perspective to just how much can occur in only a few moments of focus.

You can bet there is not any multitasking going on during that ride!

Having grit, determination and courage all require focus. I encourage everyone to consider ways of finding the focus required each day so you can complete your mission, too. Taking even a few seconds for yourself can help you clear your head. Following are some of my favorite ways for reducing the clutter: ■■ Put away anything electronic

preparing for a flight the attendant instructs you

■■ When you are in front of the computer, reduce the number of windows on the screen.

mask on yourself before helping others. This is

■■ Disable pop-ups and alarms.

on your plans, ideas and dreams, how can you

■■ Be mindful of multitasking.

in the event of emergency to put the oxygen

also true of our focus. Without having true focus

■■ Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails.

communicate them to benefit others?

■■ Leave yourself reminders to focus.

Our world is full of distractions, which are rarely

■■ Write in a journal daily.

certainly added many layers to that. How many

■■ Exercise.

considered positive, and the year 2020 has

■■ Go outside.

times did you miss something important because

■■ Make a to-do list for play.

of being distracted? How many accidents occur because someone is distracted? Banners, popup ads, newsfeeds, and the list goes on; they

are constantly directed at influencing us. When

was the last time you went an entire day without seeing any news? It always seeps in everyday, even without watching a newscast. When you break it down, we are bombarded without

really knowing it. When was the last time you

unplugged to be in the presence of just yourself?

Spending time finding ways to connect with

yourself is critical to the mission of being present

■■ Create something.

■■ Give yourself some grace.

It has been quite a week. When I quiet everything going on inside, I know I am in the right place at the right time for the mission.

Focus has given me the courage to step outside of my comfort zone, and I am here to serve you.

Looking forward, I am excited how we can focus, both individually and collectively, to accomplish more for our community.

for the needs of others.

The average human has an eight-second

attention span – less than that of a goldfish,

according to a 2015 study by Microsoft. I know we can do better. Being solely focused seems to slow down time, which then allows us to

36 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Nancy Busch, ISFA Executive Director nancy@isfanow.org

ISFA Events & Training

Because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the pandemic and the instruction by the CDC to avoid travel where possible, all ISFA events planned for the remainder of 2020 will either be moved to online platforms or have been put on hold until the best authorities have deemed it safe to travel again. As such, our training and networking events have been rescheduled as follows: Maker’s Monday Meetings w/ Virtual Shop Tours Sponsored by Park Industries Zoom Conference Every Monday 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmondaymeetings Gen 2 Event Sponsored by Moraware and BACA Systems Virtual Meeting Fall Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces Training & Certification Event Sponsored by Park Industries, LPI, Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI Virtual Event Sept. 29-30 ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting Sponsored by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces Virtual Event Nov. 3-6 For additional information and registration options, please visit www. isfanow.org or email nancy@isfanow.org.

ISFANews Nancy Busch Named Executive Director of ISFA Nancy Busch was recently hired to serve as the Executive Director of ISFA and officially began her role on August 3.

Previously, Busch was a sales manager for Willis Supply, a North American distributor of world-class building materials including Corian® Solid Surface, Corian® Quartz, Arpa High Pressure Laminate, FENIX NTM®, FENIX NTA® and Artisan sinks.

She managed a sales team that covered the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Hawaii, earning several awards during her tenure.

She has also been involved with the Architectural Woodworking Institute’s Washington Chapter, was a past Co-Chair of Programs for the Puget Sound Chapter of the NKBA. “Nancy has real-world experience with the products and processes used by our members,” said ISFA Vice President Steve Mast. “She is a real champion for the industry, is enthusiastic and has expressed great interest in serving our membership further advancing the goals of the association. The ISFA Board of Directors is confident that she will perform well in the role.”

Having worked 14 years at Willis Supply, with increasingly larger and more diverse responsibilities, Busch has proven herself as a gogetter with a well-established knowledge base. Prior to her work with Willis, she was an independent kitchen & bath designer, earning an NKBA Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD) certification. She also studied fine art and design at Pacific Lutheran University after earning an Associates of Arts & Science degree at Pierce College.

Busch accepted the position that was recently vacated by Amy Miller who served in the role since 2017 and left to become CEO of a charitable organization in her home town in Ohio. “Amy did an amazing job during her time as ISFA Director,” added Mast. “We wish her the best and she has gracefully agreed to help Nancy transition into the Executive Director position.”

“I’m excited to begin my work with ISFA and carry on the advancements it has made over the past several years,” said Busch.

Delivery of Silica Training Program Materials Now Underway ISFA teamed up this year with the

in the process of receiving have

in an effort to improve safety in

training that includes the following

Natural Stone Institute and Daltile fabricating products that contain

silica. ISFA is now in the process of sending ISFA Fabricator Members (new or renewing) credit card

downloadable documents and programs:

■■ Silicosis: An Industry Guide to Awareness and Prevention

sized flash drives that contain

■■ Silica Exposure Standard and

by Daltile and courtesy of ISFA

■■ Toolbox Talk: What is Crystalline

recommended best practices.

■■ Toolbox Talk: Crystalline Silica

of the potential dangers facing

■■ Implementing a Silica Exposure

teamed up and Daltile agreed

■■ How To Use the OSHA

Silica Training Kits sponsored

OSHA Compliance

and NSI which highlight OSHA

Silica?

Because of the critical nature

Exposure Prevention

fabricators, the two organizations

Control Plan for Your Company

to help with the costs involved in creating and distributing the programming.

Voluntary Inspection Program to Monitor Silica Exposure

■■ A Sample Silica Exposure

Workers involved in manufacturing,

Control Plan for General Industry

finishing and installing natural and

■■ An OSHA Inspection Planning

products in fabrication shops and

■■ Creating a Safety Program –

are at risk of exposure to

■■ Basics of OSHA Compliance

manufactured stone countertop

Checklist

during in-home finishing/installation

Where To Start

hazardous airborne crystalline silica

■■ No Place for Complacency

and lifelong health consequences.

OSHA’s new Respirable Crystalline Silica regulations have stringent

requirements for protecting the 2.3

■■ Onsite OSHA Consultation ■■ Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment

million workers who are exposed to

For more information contact carol@ isfanow.org.

The flash drive training kits that

To join ISFA or renew your membership, visit www.ISFAnow.org or call the ISFA office at (888) 599-ISFA.

this hazard at work.

all ISFA Fabricator Members are

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

“I believe my background in distribution will allow me to roll up my sleeves and quickly get involved in serving the organization and its members.”

ISFA Executive Director Nancy Busch can be reached at nancy@isfanow.org.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 37

ISFANews Remaining 2020 ISFA Events Moved Online Because of the and continued uncertainty as to a timeline for safe travel and group gatherings caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, ISFA has rolled back its meeting schedule and will conduct all meetings, at least through the end of 2020, via online platforms. The association is working on redesigning its events to fit with a web-based agenda.

Virtual Shop Tours/Maker’s Monday Meetings Since the beginning of the pandemic, ISFA has held Maker’s Monday Meetings via Zoom to give ISFA members a chance to share information and best practices during the pandemic. The event has grown to now include regular Virtual Shop Tours, with members sharing walk-throughs of their businesses and answering questions. The meetings are Mondays at 2 p.m.

EST and are sponsored by Park Industries. Anyone is welcome to join the live events, and the nearly dozen previous events have all been recorded and are available online to all ISFA members. For more information, or to have your shop

Large Format Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces Training/Certification The growing countertop category that includes porcelain, sintered stone and compact surfaces is one in which there is great interest. On Sept.

29 and 30, a virtual training event will be held to offer specific insight into fabricating a variety of these surfaces, including products offered by Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI, all of which are sponsoring the event in addition to Park Industries and LPI. You can help ensure your fabrication company’s future success by becoming an expert in these products today. More information and registration details are available at www.isfanow.org under the “Events” tab.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

featured in a shop tour, visit www.isfanow.org/fabricator-tours/ or email nancy@isfanow. org.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

Gen2 Leadership Roundtable ISFA’s Gen2 Leadership Roundtable is designed to provide education and networking opportunities for companies that are currently run by 2nd or 3rd generation owners. During this program, participants receive education from speakers on topics specific to 2nd generation needs, and have the opportunity to network and associate with peers from within the fabrication industry that are also within their 2nd/3rd generation. A virtual event is in the works for this fall and is sponsored by Moraware and BACA Systems. For more

information, visit www.isfanow.org/generation-2/.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

ISFA Annual Conference and Meeting The ISFA Annual Conference will be a four-day virtual event from Nov. 3 to 6, with live webinars, educational speakers, virtual networking events, new product introductions, speaker panels, the annual award ceremony and much more. Participants will be able to attend some events live and check out other portions at their leisure. The event is sponsored this year by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces, and those who register will receive swag boxes in advance of the event courtesy of the sponsors. For more information visit www.isfanow. org, email nancy@isfanow.org or call the ISFA office at (888) 599-ISFA.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Application Deadline Extended for Mike Nolan Scholarship Each year, ISFA awards the Mike Nolan Scholarship to an individual seeking education for a career in the skilled trades dealing with the decorative surfacing industry, cabinetry or carpentry. The scholarship is awarded in honor of Mike Nolan, one of ISFA’s dear friends, a multi-term board member and former fabrication trainer and ISFA Education Director.

The deadline for applications has been extended because of the uncertainty in college and trade school schedules caused by the pandemic. The winner of the $1,200 scholarship and free one-year membership in ISFA can use the funds to help pay for any expenses involved with the cost of education related to the skilled trades. To apply or for more information, email info@isfanow.org or visit

www.isfanow.org.

38 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ISFA Contacts ISFA PO Box 627 Ingomar, PA 15127 (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org Executive Director Nancy Busch (253) 691-0169 nancy@isfanow.org Director of Communications Kevin Cole Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor (815) 721-1507 kevin@isfanow.org

Operations Manager Carol Wilhite (412) 487-3207 carol@isfanow.org Account Representative Paul Wisnefski (262) 498-4184 wisnefski@sbcglobal.net Program Coordinator Amy Kyriazis (412) 487-3207 amy@isfanow.org

Solid Surface Fabrication Trainer Chris Pappenfort (417) 598-2390 chris@isfanow.org Quartz/Stone Fabrication Trainer Fred Hueston (321) 514-6845 fred@isfanow.org

ISFANews 2020 ISFA Award Nominations Open in September Nominations for the 2020 ISFA Awards open Sept. 1, with all members receiving a nomination ballot via email. These annual awards are given to those in the industry that stand out as the very best. Once the nominations are gathered, a ballot will be sent out and voting on them will follow immediately. The winners will be announced at the ISFA Annual Conference and Meeting, to be held virtually this year, Nov. 3 to 6. Only ISFA members are eligible for nomination except for the ISFA Hall of Fame. The award categories are as follows: The Fabricator of the Year Award is awarded to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year 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 Innovator Award is for the member firm or individual who goes outside the box to create a product or system that enhances the life or elevates the role of the surface fabricator.

The Associate of the Year Award is given 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.

The Envision Award is given to the manufacturer member that excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry.

ISFA Board of Directors Steve Mast Vice President Precision Countertops 26200 S.W. 95th Ave. Ste. 303 Wilsonville, OR 97070 (503) 660-3023 Steve.m@precisioncountertops. com www.precisioncountertops.com Kelley Montana Treasurer Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing 70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-5918 kmontana@humtop.com www.humtop.com

Austin Maxwell Secretary Maxwell Countertops 324 S. Plum St. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2848 austin@maxwellcounters.com www.maxwellcounters.com

Jim Callaghan Associate Member Representative and Executive Committee Member GranQuartz 3950 Steve Reynolds Blvd.

Norcross, GA 30093 (248) 660-3291 jcallaghan@granquartz.com www.granquartz.com

Mike Langenderfer Director The Countertop Shop 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net

Joe Duszka Director Carolina Custom Surfaces 100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 (336) 215-5518 Joe@carolinacustom surfaces. com Laura Grandlienard Director ROCKin’teriors 230 Hampton Woods Ln., Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27607 (919) 577-0207 laura@rockinteriors.com

Rodrigo Velazquez Director INDEKO Blvd los charros 1500 Col. Belenes Industrial Nte Zapopan 45150 Mexico 52 331-028-7863 rodrigo@weareindeko.com

Eric Tryon Director Founding Member of Rockheads Group 845 McFarland Pkwy.

Alpharetta, GA 30004 (678) 614-7111 tryonea@gmail.com www.rockheadsusa.com

Joe Connolly Associate Member Representative SASSO 220 N. Smith St. Ste. 414 Palatine, IL 60067 (224) 200-8004 jconnollysassousa@ gmail.com www.sassousa.com Paul “Max” Le Pera Associate Member Representative Global Surfacing Alliance 106 Melrich Rd. Cranbury, NJ 08512 (908) 358-5252 pmlp33@gmail.com

ISFA Booster Club The ISFA Booster Club is a program comprised of ISFA members committed to growing ISFA membership, benefits and programs. Each club member makes a financial contribution and participates in a quarterly conference call led by Executive Director Nancy Busch and Vice President Steve Mast. During the calls new ideas for projects and programs to benefit ISFA members and the industry are discussed, as well as timelines for implementation. Those interested in joining can contact nancy@ isfanow.org for more information.

The ISFA Hall of Fame Award is given to the individual who has, in the course of his/ her career, made significant contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the ideals of ISFA. For more information on the ISFA Annual Awards call ISFA at (888) 599-ISFA or email nancy@ isfanow.org.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 39

JOINING WILL CROSS THE OTHER ITEMS OFF YOUR LIST. ACCESS COVID-19 RESOURCES ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.ISFANOW.ORG/COVID-19

FOUNDED BY FABRICATORS FOR FABRICATORS To JOIN ISFA and find out more, go to www.isfanow.org I N T ER N AT ION A L SU R FAC E FAB R I C AT O R S ASSO C I AT I O N

International Surface Fabricators Association SERVING OUR MEMBERSHIP SINCE 1997

40 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Fabricator Directory Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

ALABAMA

Cutstone Co.

Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing

Delorie Countertops & Doors Inc.

ALASKA

Naresh Tammabatula

Jackson Stoneworks

117 Cloverdale Dr. Alabaster, AL 35007 205-624-3538 www.cutstoneco.com

Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503 907-793-3047 www.cookinlethousing.org

Vision Construction 17 Adak Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-479-0380 www.visionunited.com

ARIZONA

Classy Closets Etc. Inc. 7073 W. Linda Ln. Chandler, AZ 85226 480-710-1190 www.classyclosets.com

ARKANSAS Qualserv

7400 S. 28th St. Ft. Smith, AR 72908 479-459-5892 www.qualservsolutions.com

American Epoxy Scientific 500 E. 16th St. Mountain Home, AR 72653 870-701-5015 www.stichco.com

CALIFORNIA

America’s Dream HomeWorks 7115 Watt Ave. Ste. 100 North Highlands, CA 95660 916-502-7789 www.dreamhomeworks.com

American Stone Fabricator

9489 Opal Ave. Mentone, CA 92359 909-918-5528 www.americanstonefabricator.com

Artistry Stone Surfaces Inc. 81824 Trader Place, Bldg. D Indio, CA 92201 760-777-2625 www.artistrystonesurfaces.com

Carrara Marble Company of America Inc. 15939 Phoenix Dr. Industry, CA 91745 626-961-6010 www.carrara.com

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

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

1750 Stokes St. 71 San Jose, CA 95126 510-324-6588

Pacifica Wholesale Tile and Stone

620 E. Ball Rd. Anaheim, CA 92805 310-497-3511 www.pacificastone.com

Plastic Tops, Inc.

521 E. Jamie Ave. La Habra, CA 90631 714-738-8128 www.plastictops.com

Quarry House Inc.

217 San Anselmo Ave. San Anselmo, CA 90205 415-482-9094 www.quarryhouseinc.com

The Countertop Factory

2470 E. Coronado St. Anaheim, CA 92806 562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net

COLORADO

Front Range Stone

2195 S. Raritan St. Englewood, CO 80110 303-761-4257 www.frontrangestone.com

RW Woodworks LLC

1605 Colorado Ave. Canon City, CO 81212 719-679-7790 www.rwwoodworks.com

The Top Shop Inc. 3300 E. 43rd Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-996-6026 www.tshopinc.com

DELAWARE

Troy Granite Inc.

711 Interchange Blvd.

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

2140 N.W. 18th St. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-970-7661 www.deloriectd.com 11111 S.E. 72nd Gainsville, FL 32641 352-372-6600 www.jacksonllc.com

Firerock Fabrication 59-518A Alapio Rd. Haleiwa HI 96712 607-243-8618

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

Montage Decor LLC

Mill-Rite Woodworking Co. 6401 47th St. N. Pinellas Park, FL 33781 727-528-6305 www.mill-rite.com

NSM Florida Enterprises, LLC 1050 Central Park Dr. Sanford, FL 32771 407-774-0676 www.nsmotif.com

94-117 Malakeke Pl. Unit 102 Waipahu, HI 96797 808-200-7868 www.montage-decor.com

ILLINOIS

4-D Construction of IL, Inc. 1107 E. Cemetery Ave. Chenoa, IL 61726 815-867-2196 www.4-Dconstruction.com

Sterling Mfg.

Custom Marble Inc.***

GEORGIA

Maxwell Counters Inc.

8293 Consumer Circle Sarasota, FL 34240 941-955-8787 www.sterlingmfg.com

Atlanta Kitchen Inc.

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

Counter Fitters LLC

1026 Lynes Ave. Savannah, GA 31415 912-231-0103 www.counterfitterssav.com

Countersync

2014 Westside Ct. Augusta, GA 30907 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net

Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc. 2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com

PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net

PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61824 309-928-2848 www.maxwellcounters.com

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

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.

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

Ravenswood Studio Inc. 6900 N. Central Park Ave. Lincolnwood, IL 60712 707-334-6851 www.ravenswoodstudio.com

Heft Enterprises

Solid Surface Creations Inc.

Premier Surfaces

Stalwart Systems

Stone Center

Stonecrafters

9138 Wheat St. Covington, GA 30014 678-342-9400 www.heftcabinets.com

FLORIDA

845 McFarland Pkwy.

Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-614-7111 www.premiersurfaces.com

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

1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com

Beverin Solid Surface

HAWAII

403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com 7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-1193 www.stalwartsystemsusa.com 430 W. Wegner Rd. Lakemoor, IL 60051 815-363-8730 www.stonecrafters.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 41

Fabricator Directory

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

The Countertop Factory Midwest*** 869 S. Rte. 53 Addison, IL 60101 630-606-8055 www.tcfmidwest.com

INDIANA

A. I. A. Countertops LLC 201 S. Huntington St. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com

Hartson-Kennedy Cabinet Top Co., Inc.

522 W. 22nd St. Marion, IN 46953 800-388-8144 www.hartson-kennedy.com

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.

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

IOWA

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

MAINE

Bangor Wholesale Laminates

355 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, ME 04401 207-945-5928 www.bangorwholesale laminates.com

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

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

MARYLAND

ASSI Fabricators LLC 11270 Old Baltimore Pike Beltsville, MD 20705 301-937-2800 www.assifab.com

Carefree Kitchens Inc.

2910 Strickland St. Baltimore, MD 21223 410-233-4900 www.carefreeindustries.com

Modular Concepts Inc.

54 Wilmon St. Chesapeake City, MD 20705 410-885-5960 www.modcoinc.com

SolidTops LLC

StoneHouse Quartz & Granite 505 South St. 3901 100th St. Urbandale, IA 50322 515-512-5188 www.stonehousegranite.com

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

VT Industries

Discover Marble & Granite

1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com

KENTUCKY

Granite America

1121 St. Louis Ave. Louisville, KY 40241 502-419-0713

Louisville Lumber & Millwork 1400 Lincoln Ave. Louisville, KY 40213 502-459-8710 www.louisvillelumber.com https://graniteamericausa.com/ louisville/

MASSACHUSETTS

4 Latti Farm Rd. Millbury, MA 01527 508-438-6900 www.discovermarble.com

Jack’s Custom Woodworking/JCW Countertops

3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com

Sharp Creative LLC

110 K St. South Boston, MA 02127 781-378-0001 www.sharpcreative.us

StoneMark Granite LLC

Sterling Surfaces

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.

989 Logan St. Louisville, KY 40204 502-315-5100 www.stonemarkgranite.com

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

76 Leominster Rd. Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-3321 www.sterlingsurfaces.com 1079 N. Montello St. Brockton, MA 02301 508-894-6999 www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com

42 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

MICHIGAN

NEBRASKA

44038 Phoenix Dr. Lake Orion, MI 48362 586-532-7763 www.hardrocstoneworks.com

5633 S. 49th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009 www.lincolnlaminating.com

Hard Rock Stone Works

Lincoln Laminating Inc.

Innovative Surface Works

Lycos, Inc.

MKD

Stone Concepts, Inc.

23206 Commerce Dr. Farmington, MI 48335 734-261-3010 www.ISWrocksnow.com 106 E. Oliver Dr. Marshall, MI 49068 269-209-8198 www.mkdkitchens.com

Paxton Countertops & Showers

PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146 www.paxtonsurfaces.com

Tile & Stone Works

12876 23 Mile Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48315 586-254-1234 www.tilenstone.com

MINNESOTA

Elegant Creations

1371 S. State St. Waseca, MN 56093 507-469-9692 www.elegantcreations.com

Innovative Surfaces Inc. 515 Spiral Blvd.

Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004

The Pinske Edge

119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com

MISSISSIPPI

Alexander Counterwrights 3803 Old Mobile Ave. Pascagoula, MS 39581 228-938-6484 www.alexandercounter wrights.com

MISSOURI

Premier Surfaces

4525 N.W. 41st St. Ste. 400 Kansas City, MO 64150 816-767-2075 www.premiersurfaces.com

MONTANA BMC

3200 Hwy. 12 E. Helena, MT 59602 406-444-8721 www.buildwithBMC.com

2445 Deer Park Blvd.

Omaha, NE 68105 402-201-2283 www.lycosfinish.com 10802 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 865-523-0967 www.stoneconceptsomaha.com

NEVADA

Carpenters Int’l.

Training Fund

6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111

NEW HAMPSHIRE Montes Marble

11 Industrial Way Atkinson, NH 03811 207-671-2542 www.montesmarble.com

Rumford Stone Inc.

278 River Rd. Bow, NH 03304 603-224-9876 www.rumfordstone.com

NEW JERSEY Marvic Corp.

2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com

New Jersey Stone***

44 Fadem Rd. Springfield, NJ 07081 973-491-5454 https://newjerseystone.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy.

Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com

NEW MEXICO

American Countertops

PO Box 10482 Albuquerque, NM 87184 505-897-3141 www.americancountertopsonline.com

Jaynes Structures

2906 Broadway N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87107 505-344-8589 www.jaynescorp.com

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

OGB Architectural Millwork 3711 Paseo del Norte Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-998-0000 www.ogb-am.com

NEW YORK

Granite and Marble Works Inc.

8 Commercial Park Dr. Wilton, NY 12831 518-857-9720 www.graniteandmarbleworks.com

Marker Systems Inc.

940 River Rd. North Tonawanda, NY 14120 716-695-1102 www.markersys.com

Modern Home Distributing PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523 www.modernhomekitchen andbath.com

Penn Fabricators Inc. 30 Platinum Ct. Medford, NY 11763 631-205-0282 www.pennforcorian.com

Whispering Pines Woodcraft LLC 4150 State Rte. 14 A Penn Yan, NY 14527 607-243-8618

NORTH CAROLINA Atlantic Countertops

4250 Old Wake Forrest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27613 919-981-0163 www.atlanticcountertops.com

A Top Above The Rest 121 Wilkie St. Forest City, NC 28043 828-382-0174

BloomDay Granite & Marble 3810 Indiana Ave. Winston-Salem, NC 27105 336-414-0842 www.bloomdaygranite.com

Carolina Custom Surfaces***

Majestic Kitchen & Bath 104 Jeffrey Way Youngsville, NC 27596 919-376-5941 www.gomajestic.com

Metro Woodcrafters of NC, Inc.

PO Box 669488 Charlotte, NC 28266-9488 704-394-9622 www.metrowoodcrafter.com

Onslow Stoneworks

1661 Hwy. 58 PO Box 1239 Swansboro, NC 28584 252-393-2457 www.onslowstoneworks.com

ROCKin’teriors

230 Hampton Woods Ln. Ste. 100 Raleigh, NC 27607 919-577-0207 www.rockinteriors.com

Stoneworks

18623 Northline Dr. Cornelius, NC 28031 704-936-8340 www.stoneworksltd.com

OHIO

Countertops by Nate

5372 Bedford St. Unit C Bedford Heights, OH 44146 216-314-8654

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.

1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.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

100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 336-215-5518 www.carolinacustom surfaces.com

The Countertop Shop LTD***

Carolina Stoneworx LLC

Top Advantage Surfaces Inc.

8313 Poole Rd. Knightdale, NC 27545 919-266-1011 www.carolinastoneworx.com

Coastal Countertops & Tile

1117 N. 20th St. Morehead City, NC 28557 252-247-0015 www.coastalcountertopsnc.com

9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net 12989 Market Ave. N. Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-2138 www.topadvantage.com

Top Designs Inc.

1700 Wall Rd. Wadsworth, OH 44281 330-334-5677 www.topdesignsinc.com

Top Shelf Laminated Products 400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289

Tower Industries

2101 Ninth St. S.W. Massillon, OH 44647 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com

OREGON

Crowley’s Granite & Quartz 10100 S.W. Herman Rd. Tualatin, OR 97062 503-850-2496

Nelson Tile and Stone

1875 N.E. Division St. Bend, OR 977701 503-943-9046 www.nelsontileandstone.com

Oregon State University 601 S.W. 35th St. Corvallis, OR 97333 www.oregonstate.edu

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

Pittsburgh Troy Granite 1060 484 Lowries Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-446-1060 www.troygranite.com

Rynone Mfg. Corp

297 Dominic Pace Industrial Pkwy.

Sayre, PA 18840 570-888-5272 www.rynone.com

RHODE ISLAND

Great In Counters

Precision Countertops Inc.*** PO Box 387 Wilsonville, OR 97070 503-692-6660 www.precisioncountertops.com

PENNSYLVANIA ASST

350 South St. McSherrystown, PA 17344 717-630-1251 www.asst.com

100 Whipple St. Providence, RI 02908 401-233-0666 www.greatincounters.com

SOUTH CAROLINA

Custom Architectural Solutions LLC (CAS) 218 Willowgreen Way Greer, SC 29651 864-501-9555 www.casgroups.com

Advanced Surfaces Inc.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Atlantic Custom Granite & Marble

45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com

130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 814-663-0369

3 Windemere Ct. York, PA 17402 717-244-3494 www.AtlanticCustomGranite.com

Eastern Surfaces

601 S. 10th St. Allentown, PA 18103 610-266-3121 www.easternsurfaces.com

Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories

2425 New Holland Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 717-656-2300

Indoor City Granite and Marble 1284 Loop Rd. Lancaster, PA 17601 717-368-5604 www.indoorcity.com

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co.

Granite Accents, Inc. 2821 W. 6th St. PO Box 1111 Sioux Falls, SD 57109 605-338-4088 www.graniteacents.com

TENNESSEE

Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.

1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626 www.alexandermarble andgranite.com

Countertops of Memphis

301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis TN 38106 901-602-7115 www.countertopsofmemphis.com International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 43

Fabricator Directory

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.

Giovanni’s Granite and Marble

IntelliStone, LLC

Gunckel Architectural Stoneworks, LLC

919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 615-915-0718 www.creativecounter solutions.com

115 Carr Ave. Franklin, TN 37064 615-790-4833 www.intellistone.com

J&M Cabinetry and Construction 301 Pannell Dr. Millington, TN 38053 910-596-3610

Kitchen Tops Inc.

1300 Ault Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914 865-523-0967 www.kitchentops.net

TEXAS

Alpha Granite

915 W. Howard Ln. Austin, TX 78753 505-814-5354 www.alphagraniteaustin.com

Cirrus Asset Management 5347 Spring Valley Rd. Dallas, TX 75254 661-857-0722 www.cirrusami.com

Classic Counter Tops 2325 Executive Dr. Garland, TX 75041 972-840-1234

Counterscapes, Inc.

2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676 www.counterscapes.com

Countertop Solutions LLC

PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080

Dirk Foster

921 Morton St. Mineral Wells, TX 76067 206-898-8163

Durcon

206 Allison Dr. Taylor, TX 76574 512-595-8054 www.durcon.com

Eframe Asrat

6807 Miller Shadow Sugarland, TX 77479 713-530-3673

Gecko Solid Surface Solutions*** 4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 210-227-3100 www.geckosss.com

18886 IH 10 Vidor, TX 77772 409-554-5991 www.giovannisgranite.com 5085 Elm Creek Rd. Seguin, TX 78155 830-303-0688 www.gastonework.com

Legacy Granite and Marble 6214 Keyko St. Houston, TX 77041 832-834-7459

Legacy Stone

210 James St. Roanoke, TX 76262 817-345-7044 www.legacystonetx.com

New Stone Concepts

11311 Conroy Ln. Manchaca, TX 78652 512-851-3185 www.newstoneconcepts.com

Off Grid Builds

PO Box 22 Barksdale, TX 78828 830-834-9878 offgridbuilds.lilserengeti.com

True Blue Granite

3626 Binz Engleman Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 210-281-5520 www.tbgranite.com

Uppercut Granite

1235 JC Ln. Pilot Point, TX 76258 940-765-3525

W.R. Watson Inc.

12902 Mula Ln. Stafford, TX 77477 281-495-3664 www.wrwatson.com

UTAH

Accent Countertops

4103 S. 500 W. Murray, UT 84123 801-867-9133 www.accentcountertops.com

Countertop Source

Valley View Granite

Lakewood Countertops

Westwood Carpet and Tile

Topline Counters, LLC

905 N. 2000 W. Tremont, UT 84337 435-452-1570 www.valleyviewgranite.com 575 N. 3050 East St. George, UT 84790 435-313-9414

VERMONT

Vermont Solid Surface

PO Box 602 852 Portland St. St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 802-535-4986 www.vermontsolidsurface.com

VIRGINIA

Ellis Page Co., LLC 10481 Colonel Ct. Manassas, VA 20110 703-346-9404 www.ellispageco.com

Metro Stone Works LLC 9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com

Mid Atlantic Surfaces

2559 Turkey Creek Rd. Oilville, VA 23129 804-798-7462 www.midatlanticsurfaces.com

Surface Link Corp.

4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com

WASHINGTON

Distinctive Tile & Stone

7009 Martin Way E. Olympia, WA 98516 360-455-7276 www.distinctivetilestone.com

Expression Stone Construction

7116 Stinson Ave. A207 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 360-551-3851 www.expressionstone.com

FloForm Countertops

459 N. Old Hwy. 91 Ste. 1 Hurricane, UT 54737 435-210-4253 www.countertopsource.com

22445 76th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 253-639-4567 www.floform.com

1640 S. Redwood Rd. Salt Lake City, UT 84104 801-746-1212 www.psitops.com

2301 Ahtanum Rd. Yakima, WA 98903 509-469-8678 www.italstone-us.com

Plastic Specialties Inc.

Italstone Marble & Granite

Rock Tops

King County Library System

451 N. 1650 W Springville, UT 84663 385-685-9043 www.rocktopsutah.com

44 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

960 Newport Way N.W. Issaqua, WA 98027 425-369-3300 www.kcls.org

10513 Lakeview Ave. SW Lakewood, WA 98498 253-588-2169 www.lakewoodcountertops.com PO Box 2156 Sumner, WA 98390 253-826-5480 www.toplinecounters.com

WISCONSIN

Bisley Fabrication Inc.*** 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 800-424-7539 www.bisleyfabrication.com

Counter-Form LLC

2001 E. 29th St. Marshfield, WI 54449 715-384-2131 www.counter-form.com

K.G. Stevents

11100 W. Silver Springs Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53225 262-432-8711 www.kgstevens.com

The Kopfmann Co. Inc. 3142 W. Mill Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-352-7870 www.kopfmanntops.com

McDermott Top Shop LLC 420 Generac Way Jefferson, WI 53549 262-593-2456 www.mcdermotttopshop.com

AFRICA

AMCO-CDA

Long St. Tiko B.P. 378 Camaroon Africa +237677192762

CANADA

Elite Food Equipment 4 Fielding Ct. Ajax, ON L1T 4W5 Canada

FloForm Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada 204-474-2334 www.floform.com

FloForm Countertops 10-710 Cynthia St. Saskatoon, SK S7l 6A2 Canada 306-665-7733 www.floform.com

FloForm Countertops 7630 Yellowhead Trail Edmonton, AB T5B 1G3 Canada 780-474-7999 www.floform.com

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

Paragon Surfacing LTD

6720 Graybar Rd. Richmond, BC V6W1J1 Canada 604-278-2225 www.paragonsurfacing.com

PF Custom Countertops Ltd.

14017 174 St. N.W. Edmonton, AB T5S 1H1 Canada 780-484-0831 www.pfcustomcountertops.com

Shape Industries

10 McPhillips St. Winnipeg, MB R3E 2J7 Canada 204-947-0409 www.shapeinc.com

Summum Granit Inc.

460 Principale St. Saint-Sebastien, QC G0Y 1M0 Canada 819-625-2333 www.summumgranit.com

CHINA

G. M. Jurohue Fabrication Co. Ltd. China +86 1861 173 7199

FRANCE

MEXICO

Bond Interiors

ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com

Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 52-3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx

UNITED KINGDOM

CREA Diffusion

INDIA

Western Fabrications

1805, 18th Floor, Gundecha Premier, Thakur Village Borivali East Mumbai Maharashtra 400066 India 91-9136229909 www.infinihybrid.com

ITALY

Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)

Via Dell’Industria 13-15 Piovene Rocchette, VI, 36013 Italy 39-0445-551500 www.legnopan.com

INDEKO***

QATAR

Closet World LLC

Salwa Rd. next to Ansar City PO Box 91692 Qatar +974 44516311 www.closetworld-qatar.net

RUSSIA

AKRILIKA HOLDING Svobody St. 29 Moscow Russia 125362 +7(495)782-84-75 http://akrilika.com/en

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Alubond Solid Surfaces

PO Box 15758 Dubai U.A.E. 04 2711727, 06 5343222 www.bondinteriors.com

Interfab LTD

Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk

Sheridan Fabrications Limited

New Sheridan House, Don Pedro Ave. Normanton, West Yorkshire WF6 1TD United Kingdom 448-456-182800 www.sheridan-uk.com

PO Box 42642 Hamriyah Free Zone Sharjah U.A.E +971 6 526 2202 www.alubondsolidsurface.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 45

Product News Cosentino Debuts Three New Silestone Colors colorways – each design bringing an artful,

Corian Design Offers Widesheet Solid Surface Dimensions

after marbles and stones. Two of the three

in Widesheet Dimensions that enables the

Bella, are the latest to join the Silestone Eternal

It helps optimize the fabrication process for

elegance and warmth, featuring gray strokes

required multiple seams. For the typical project,

space; Silestone Et D’Or (left) features soft

periods, and less material for fabricators to

(right) joins the new Silestone Artika Series and

and businesses, including healthcare, food

gray background. Its partial translucence is

type of application. In addition to allowing for

drama to any application.

waste, they also contribute to Green Building

Cosentino debuted three new Silestone

dramatic interpretation to the most sought-

Corian® Design now offers Corian Solid Surface

new hues, Silestone Et D’Or and Silestone Et

fabrication of larger, more complex applications.

Collection: Silestone Et Bella (center) combines

faster installations in applications that previously

across a striking white background as negative

this means faster, less labor-intensive installation

golden strokes across a white hue; and Polaris

inventory. Large scale commercial applications

features white veins that subtly contrast a darker

service and retail, are ideal candidates for this

what truly sets it apart and can be backlit to add

coverage of more space with less material and LEED building accreditation.

extra option fulfilling a modern architectural trend! Durable, elegant and essential, the colors include: Modern, Urban, Columbia Gray, Ceres, Contrali, Everest White and Whitney Gray.

BB Industries Adds Stain Proof by Dry-Treat to Cleaner/ Sealer Lineup

front and offset drain, is a great option for your

BB Industries (formerly Braxton-Bragg) added the recently re-branded Stain Proof by DryTreat premium line of cleaners and sealers to its offerings. Dry-Treat makes 13 products, half of which are stone and masonry sealers and cleaners used for everything from the Sydney Opera House and Dallas Cowboys stadium to homeowners’ showers and backsplashes. Stain Proof by Dry-Treat is not a new line, just a refresh of the same brand that has been made in North Carolina for years and originated in Australia in 1991. No original Dry-Treat formulas have been changed. STAIN-PROOF impregnators permanently bond to stone, providing quality stain protection from oil and water, plus premium protection from efflorescence, salt spalling, freeze-thaw spalling and picture framing. The penetrating sealers even stand up to commercial cleaning techniques such as high-pressure hosing.

etched surfaces. It is suitable for lifting a wide

commercial bathroom projects.

polished granite, porcelain, glass and more. It

LOTTE Releases Matte Finish for Radianz Quartz

LG Hausys Introduces New HI-MACS Collections and Viatera Colors

a hard shell case, backup battery, carry strap,

Radianz® matte finish is a brushed texture with

New Nemo Grabo Electric Suction Cup Available from GranQuartz, GMR Quality Stone Products The world’s first battery-powered, hand-held

suction cup, the Nemo Grabo, is now available from both GMR Quality Stone Products and GranQuartz. Unlike traditional suction cups

that are only capable of creating a good seal

with flat, clean and airtight surfaces, Grabo’s

unique seal allows the tool to adhere to rough, variety of surfaces including textured stone,

features a built-in vacuum gauge and ships with replacement foam ring, charger and replacement filter. Each suction cup is capable of handling

up to 375 lbs. (perpendicular) and up to 265 lbs. (parallel) when moving polished granite.

Karran Presents New Stainless Steel Undermount Vanity Bowls Karran now stocks two new stainless steel undermount vanity

bowls. Constructed

from durable 18-gauge stainless steel with

a soft satin brushed finish, these designs are

suitable for all solid surface, granite and quartz

countertops. The UV-1715 is a modern rectangle design with a bowl featuring an elegant half circle curve. The UV-1816, with its sloped

a uniquely soft touch that offers high-quality

color consistency. For seven colors ranging

from rustic concrete finish to white aesthetics, Radianz® Quartz is pleased to announce the

46 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

LG Hausys introduced 10 new colors in two new HI-MACS collections: Aurora Collection and Terrazzo Collection. Inspired by natural wonder and nostalgic patterns respectively, these two collections can add a fresh visual texture into

Product News adhesive is packaged in 250ml cartridges for ease of use and for the confidence in

consistently dispensing the right proportional

mix. Each Join.It glue match has been assigned a Match Grade, making it easy to select the

color needed and eliminate waste. Using Join. spaces. The Aurora Collection includes Aurora

Blanc, Aurora Cream, Aurora Gray, Aurora Pavia and Aurora Sanremo. The Terrazzo Collection

consists of: Terrazzo Classico, Terrazzo Grigio,

Terrazzo Luna, Terrazzo Moderna and Terrazzo Venato. LG Hausys also developed new

Viatera quartz surface technology that has long

diagonal veins inspired by nature. The four new Viatera colors in the Masterpiece collection are

Ribera, Arion, Sabbia and Carbo, which capture the essence of calm with the silent waves of organic lines.

Wilsonart’s Virtual Design Library Embraces Separate But Connected Selections

number of colors needed in fabrication and the

reduced inventory to result in lower overall costs and increased profits.

The Connected Collection, now available in the

Wilsonart boutique Virtual Design Library (VDL), is based on a “separate but connected” story.

Wilsonart’s in-house designers drew inspiration from the exploration of how individual surface designs with threads of similarities can work

beautifully together, while also stand on their own in a given space. The new VDL release

includes 16 abstracts and unique wood grains selected to coordinate with each other. The

Durasein Offers Brilliant Collection

to experiment, mix, match or use individually.

The Brilliant collection of solid surface

collection’s inherent connections make it easy Now with nearly 600 designs and more

launching each quarter, the Virtual Design

Library offers unprecedented design choices for

Alpha Profession Tools Expands Ecoguard Dust Collection Line

It’s Match Grade can drastically reduce the

commercial and residential applications.

from Durasein is not for the faint of heart or wallflowers. This collection is for the loud

and proud, those who never shy away from the center stage. From the perfect purple

to an outrageous orange, these decors are determined to dazzle and delight.

BLANCO Offers Latest Model of Hygienic SILIGRANIT Sink

Alpha Professional Tools® expanded its

Ecoguard Dust Collection line to include

Ecoguard G7 and Ecoguard W9, which are

designed for larger grinders such as 7- and

9-in. versions. Ecoguard G7 fits on most 7- and 9-in. angle grinders and is built for heavy-duty applications. It has several unique features

such as a flexible head that allows for a natural grinding motion. The positioning collar makes

installation simple and quick and the clear cover provides for visibility. Ecoguard W9 extends the range of the Ecoguard W Series to larger sizes covering up to 9-in. blades. It contains unique

features including a new multi-adapter system for easy installation, a front brush to contain

dust when plunge cutting and support bars and

wheels to reduce surface friction during cutting.

The maximum cutting depth is 2 3/8-in., it fits most 7- and 9-in. angle grinders and must be used with a vacuum or other dust collection

system. In addition, for convenient attachment to a vacuum, the company offers a 54-in.

flexible hose separately or together with an Ecoguard as a kit.

Princeton Chemical Company Offers Join.It Premium Surfacing Adhesive Princeton Chemical Company is now

offering its flagship product Join.It™ direct to fabricators in the surfacing industry. Join.It is

proudly manufactured in the USA. Join.It is a methacrylate-based adhesive that produces

strong, durable bonds for solid surfaces, quartz, natural stones, ceramic and sintered materials, as well as a wide range of other surfaces.

It is made for professional use in seaming

countertops, backsplashes, wall panels, integral sinks and bowls, and other on-trend designs to satisfy today’s discriminating consumers.

The adhesives are available exclusively to

fabricators through the online store located

Kitchen sinks and faucets are on the front lines of keeping a home clean and safe. BLANCO’s patented SILGRANIT kitchen sink is made of a proprietary Hygienic Plus surface that acts as a shield against dirt and bacteria while

reducing bacterial growth by up to 98 percent.

The company’s latest model is the IKON 33-in. basin with a low 1 3/4-in. divide. It is designed to make prepping, cooking and cleaning a

more seamless and comfortable experience for users.

at www.princetonchemical.com. The 10:1

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 47

Product News giving way to lighter colors and a special texture,

further enhancing its natural qualities; Winter Dala and Summer Dala, which are named after one of the country’s national symbols, Dalecarlian Horses, are inspired by the majestic, slow-

growing pines surrounding Sweden’s breathtaking Lake Siljan – one represents profile of freshly

cut timber, the other a weathered look with both

Lapitec Introduces Musa Collection Lapitec, an authentic through-body sintered

material whose internal coloring matches its

surface, introduced the Musa Collection. The

recreating cross sections of real trees.

Sarto Countertops Releases Easeedge Sarto Countertops released its Easeedge, a new software for fabricators. In less than six years,

collection has three veined variations, all on a

Sarto Countertops grew from $300,000 to more

angular, intersecting veining; Bianco Vittoria, with

had greatly improved its process in the shop,

veining on a white background with a delicate

and management of jobs were very inefficient.

dimensions with through-body veining allows

trying to handle data across several platforms,

processes in sintered stone. It is also versatile,

money on the table. So, the fabricator developed

printing.

could use. It is designed to be powerful, easy-to-

Bianco Assoluto base: Bianco Elettra, with

than $6 million in business. Automation equipment

thicker gray veining; and Bianco Aurora, with gray

but the company realized its communication

pattern. The possibility of having slabs of large

It had multiple software subscriptions and was

architects to be daring with projects and

which management felt was troublesome and left

100 percent natural and has no resin or digital

a modern software that everyone in the company

AKEMI Offers Non-yellowing Outdoor Glue InnoChem, a member of the AKEMI Group,

offers Hyperclear Adhesive which can be safely used in outdoor applications without the worry of yellowing. The adhesive features a zero

bleeding, colorless, clear knife-grade formula

with a fast cure time, allowing for five to eight minutes of working time. With a 1:1 ratio, it is

easy to mix and can be used both indoor and outdoor on all hard surfaces including stone,

porcelain, ceramic, quartzite, quartz and others.

It is non-hazardous and VOC-free.

use and mobile-friendly, so even those in the field

could access necessary information. The software is now available to other fabricators, and includes scheduling and automated job tasks. There is no

Formica Now Supplying FENIX

integrate companywide.

Formica Corporation expanded its surfacing

job management, estimating, invoicing, drawing, additional cost per user, making it affordable to

materials offering with a line of Italian-designed surfaces. The company markets, manufactures

Neolith Launches Six•S Collection

and sells Arpa Industriale’s FENIX® innovative materials for interior design in North America.

Neolith has unveiled its newest collection: SIX•S.

The integration with Formica brings new options

COVID-19 pandemic, evokes six essential

residential interiors to North America. The FENIX

®

for durable, sustainable commercial and

This new color range, influenced by the ongoing

Neolith characteristics: Solidary, Sanitary, Strong,

IceStone Presents New Color

NTM color palette is inspired by nature and it

consists of: Himalaya Crystal, which pays homage

Eco-friendly countertop manufacturer IceStone

interior design to offer a range of opportunities

veining contrasting with subtle spontaneity and

which consists of large blue glass with tiny

magic and mysticism of 1,001 Arabian Nights,

white background. IceStone incorporates 100

and tones; Abu Dhabi White, which stands out

cement and non-toxic pigment as the three core

gray, combined with the texture of natural

use of recycled materials, IceStone’s product

which encapsulates dark and mysterious tones,

materials are available. The company also has

Stylish, Sensory and Sustainability. The collection

to the region’s famous salt crystals and have bold

introduced a vibrant new color, Ocean Grass,

a slight translucency; Layla, which evokes the

hints of clear and emerald green glass in a

combining an array of light and dark gray hues

percent pre-consumer recycled glass along with

for its soft golden veining and flecks of flinty

ingredients for its product. Because of the careful

unpolished stone; Amazonico (shown here),

offerings sometimes change based on what

representing the dense forest floor gradually

Cradle to Cradle, B Corp and NSF certifications.

48 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

interprets and anticipates trends and tastes in

for expression. With low light reflectivity, FENIX surfaces are opaque, soft touch and anti-

fingerprint. Plus, thermal healing of superficial micro-scratches is also possible. FENIX

products have a core structure of paper (more

than 60 percent) impregnated with thermosetting resins (30 to 40 percent). The outer surface is

treated with next generation acrylic resins, which are hardened and fixed through an Electron Beam Curing process. It can be used for a

variety of vertical or horizontal applications.

Classifieds

TAKE NOTE! ISFA Events & Training

Because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the pandemic and the instruction by the CDC to avoid travel where possible, all ISFA events planned for the remainder of 2020 will either be moved to online platforms or have been put on hold until the best authorities have deemed it safe to travel again. As such, our training and networking events have been rescheduled as follows: Maker’s Monday Meetings w/ Virtual Shop Tours Sponsored by Park Industries Zoom Conference Every Monday 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmondaymeetings Gen 2 Event Sponsored by Moraware Virtual Meeting Fall Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces Training & Certification Event Sponsored by Park Industries, LPI, Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI Virtual Event Sept. 29-30 ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting Sponsored by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces Virtual Event Nov. 3-6

HELP WANTED

The Countertop Shop based in the Toledo, Ohio, area is hiring an inside sales person.

Must have good people skills, some design ability and basic math skills. Full time position with benefits. Meet with customers, discuss needs, quote prices and follow up.

Immediate start.

Apply to mike@countertopshop.net

FABRICATORS! ISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment you would like to sell?

Looking to fill a key position? 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.

For those of you who are not fabricator members, email kevin@isfanow.org or call (815) 721-1507 to get a quote.

For additional information and registration options, please visit www. isfanow.org or email nancy@isfanow.org.

HELP WANTED

ASST (pronounced ASSIST) is an industry leader in commercial architectural surfacing fabrications. We provide surfacing solutions coordinating a wide variety of materials. Our headquarters are located in beautiful McSherrystown (near Gettysburg) Pennsylvania. ASST is presently seeking an energetic Installer as well as a Fabrication Team Members for our growing, ambitious company. ASST specializes in complex surface fabrications utilizing solid surface, translucent resins and other materials. Cabinetmaking, woodworking skills and/or experience with sheet materials such as 3Form® or DuPont Corian® are a definite plus. Experience with thermoforming solid surface, and resin materials are also a definite plus. You will be expected to coordinate and communicate with your direct supervisor to ensure Work Orders are properly fulfilled with the goal of a successfully completed project.

Fabricator The successful candidate will have experience with solid surface fabrication and/or commercial architectural millwork in a busy shop environment.

Installer The successful candidate will have installation experience with solid surface fabrication and/ or commercial architectural millwork in a busy construction site environment.

If qualified for either of these positions, please forward your resume in confidence to: stevenstoddard@asst.com

Ad Index Advertiser Page

Advertiser Page

Advertiser Page

BB Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Integra Adhesives. . . . . . . Back Cover

Park Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Beckart Environmental, Inc.. . . . . . 35

ISFA Membership. . . . . . . . . . . 31, 40

Princeton Chemical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Betterly Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

IWF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Regent Stone Products . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chromalok. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Karran USA. . . . . . Inside Back Cover

SATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Cosentino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

LPI Laser Products Industries . . . . 19

Schultz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

CountertopResource.com . . . . . . . 35

MSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Hyundai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

Natural Stone Institute . . . . . . . . . . 45

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • 49

From the Vice President From the Desk of Steve Mast, ISFA Vice President

Stepping Up by Stepping In It’s hard to step into a position where the prior

My history with ISFA began more than 23

to be a member of this organization. In July,

countertop industry. I showed up a little

had to step down. As ISFA Vice President, I

welcoming bunch who were eager to share

left. I only hope I can come close to doing as

me. It was a great introduction to fabrication

months as president.

and pick up a few ideas. So much has

Augie is unrivaled in building relationships

growth in the popularity of stone and quartz,

opportunities to learn from others by hosting

into the digital age, and more advanced and

aren’t conducive to travel and large gatherings.

But really, at its heart, much of the industry

at www.ISFAnow.org. Non-members can view

of thousands of small businesses across

Zoom conferences live (which are generally

fabricating and installing countertops. We still

members can log in and view a whole host

happen every day, but the one constant that I

participate in the live events. We have received

leader perfectly exemplifies what it means

years ago, when I had just started in the

ISFA President Augie Chavez unfortunately

green to my first meeting, only to find a

will be stepping in to try to fill the void he has

their stories and industry knowledge with

great of a job as he has done in his nearly 20

and a wonderful opportunity to meet people

and relentlessly connecting with and helping

others. He seeks out knowledge and friendship within the industry and sees the value in

learning as much as he can from others, while

sharing his experience at the same time. I have witnessed him traveling to faraway seminars to seek new ideas and in turn implement them in his own shop. He is extremely generous with

the knowledge he has attained along his way.

Augie even went so far as to drop everything a few years ago to go run a fellow ISFA

member’s shop when he wasn’t able to. I have

also always admired the way he empowers his own employees, giving them the confidence and knowledge to run his shop effectively without him being present.

one that is pre-recorded or participate in the

America and around the world measuring,

held on Mondays at 11 a.m. EST), whereas

continue to run into the “fun” challenges that

of them we have already collected and

am so grateful for is the variety of friendships I have made that now span more than two decades.

and interact with the company as they walk

again and again over the years. If you are

I also encourage everyone to join and be part

valuable tool I have. I’ve relied on them

colleague you can contact to see what

My hope for ISFA in the future is that it will

they have already been down that path

50 • Vol. 13 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

the live events participants can ask questions

us through their operations. I promise it will be

wish him the absolute best going forward.

and help others to climb along with you.

wonderful feedback on their value, and during

These friendships are by far the most

new product, it is so nice to have a trusted

much more satisfying when you extend a hand

as all of us.”

remains the same. It’s still largely made up

skill he provided to the association, and we all

and teach others. The journey to success is so

Blanchard once said, “None of us is as smart

I invite you to check them out on our website

thinking of expanding your business with a

level, and it’s imperative that we learn from

fresh new ideas. As business author Ken

automated equipment, just to name a few.

staff are thankful for the time, dedication and

succeed and take our businesses to the next

mentors and new fabricators who have

virtual shop tours during these trying times that

having trouble with some new material or

friends we make along the way. We all want to

long-time fabricators who have been great

a variety of new software to further lead us

within it, and the ISFA Board of Directors and

learn from many and in turn share it with the

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know

ISFA is currently offering new valuable

considering a new piece of equipment,

exactly what Augie does so naturally, to

game-changers that increase our profitability.

changed in the industry since then, such as

Augie is a true friend to the industry and those

continue to provide the foundation to mimic

witnessed practices that have been total

experience they’ve had with it. Oftentimes, and have discovered some of the pitfalls.

One of my favorite things to do is visit a

well worth the 30 minutes or so it takes.

of ISFA. It offers a great place to be able to

meet others, visit other’s shops, share, learn from a variety of available resources and, of course, have some fun. Not only will it help make your countertop/surfacing business

better and more profitable, the journey will be

much more enjoyable when you are supported by friends.

fellow shop and see what ideas I can pick up to implement in my own business. It’s

important to get out of your own world to

gain perspective on what others are doing.

Sometimes what seems to be the smallest thing that I discover ends up having a big

impact on our operations. Other times, I’ve

Steve Mast, ISFA Vice President steve.m@precisioncountertops.com

ISFA Member since 1998

ISFA Member since 1998