ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 13, Issue 4- Q4 2020

VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 4 • QUARTER 4, 2020 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

Fabricator Profile: Mid-Atlantic Surfaces Page 18

Large Format Porcelain & Current Tile Trends Page 23

Sink Spotlight Page 26

COVID-19 and OSHA Standards Page 30 COVID-19 U.S. Economic Impact Page 32

ISFA Member since 2016

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 Mid-Atlantic Surfaces, Ted Jaunsz, Ceramics of Italy, LAMINAM, Atlas Concorde, italgraniti, Blustyle, Ceramiche Brennero, Casalgrande Padana, Cotto d’Este, FAP Ceramiche, Fincibec, Ceramica Fondovalle, Settecento and Freedonia Group.

Contacting ISFA Phone: (888) 599-ISFA editor@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org

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.

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4 • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 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, President Joe Duszka, Vice President Mike Langenderfer, Treasurer Austin Maxwell, Secretary

ISFA Directors Paul “Max” Le Pera, Director Eric Tryon, Director Rodrigo Velazquez, Director Laura Grandlienard, Director Ted Sherritt, Director Kimberley Homs, Director Jim Callaghan, Associate Member Rep Joe Connolly, Associate Member Rep

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 slabs by Daltile® American Reserve™ ONE Quartz Surfaces® – National Marble Series in Statuary Unity.

Visit www.daltile.com to learn more about Daltile’s full product offering.

ISFA Member since 2018

CONTENTS Features 18 ISFA Fabricator Profile: Mid-Atlantic Surfaces Leveraging advanced capabilities and nationwide partnerships

18

23 Large Format Porcelain and Other Current Tile Trends A look at what’s making waves in tile 26 Sink Spotlight Our annual update on all the happenings in the world of sinks 30 COVID-19, OSHA Standards and the Surfacing Industry Procedures, problems and advice for protecting your business

23 26

32 COVID-19 U.S. Economic Impact The Freedonia Group offers insight into how the pandemic has and may continue to affect the economy

Departments

8 From the Editor 10 Calendar of Events 12 Education Connection 14 Industry News 34 From the Executive Director 35 ISFA News

28

40 ISFA Fabricator Directory 45 Product News 49 Classifieds/Ad Index 50 From the President

32 6 • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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 Director of Communications

There Is a Time for Everything, and a Season for Every Activity This time last year I was challenging myself

a ways to go to get back to a more normal

benefit others. And I still believe it is based

you are like me, then you’ve heard the term

to take more time for me, which would in turn

business model, it is coming. However, if

on sound thinking. However, when I wrote it, I

“new normal” more times than you can count,

crash our economy was just around the corner.

previous “business as usual” that we may have

had no idea a worldwide pandemic that would I bet anyone would be hard-pressed to

so certainly there will be changes from the been accustomed to.

find a person who didn’t think 2020 was an

But, isn’t it always about change? Certainly

agree that it wasn’t the year of taking time for

two decades in the countertop industry,

extremely difficult year. I think most would also

change is the one constant. Over my nearly

yourself. In fact, it seemed quite the opposite.

there’s not been a time where something

In 2020, if you were like me, you had more challenges than you could handle coming

your way at breakneck speeds. Many of us

take great pride in our work ethic, making sure

everything gets done and done well, with every “i” dotted and “t” crossed. But, sometimes it

wasn’t in flux. Whether it was market or

economic conditions, product offerings, new

methodologies, advancements in machinery,

equipment and other technologies, changing paths to market, or numerous others, things have come a long way.

was just getting critical tasks completed to the

Sometimes the changes are gradual, and

next item that absolutely couldn’t wait.

conditions beyond our control, such as the

Many of us have heard all of our lives that

new software systems to connect remotely

best of my abilities so I could move on to the

if we work hard and push for it, we will get

ahead, but sometimes in 2020 it was just not getting too far behind. And you know what, that’s all right.

There’s nothing wrong with pushing ourselves to complete a tough project or a task in a

difficult environment or under a demanding timeline when we need to. Accomplishing

those things can bring me a great feeling of

satisfaction and contentment. However, it was difficult to be content in a year that has been unprecedented in our lifetimes.

Most of us have faced at least some pain,

suffering and loss over the course of the year, and while we may know that we still have

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

other times they are forced on the industry by current case. If you haven’t spent time learning with your team and peers, and revising your

well as my family, my friends and myself, I’m

going to also to try to remember to take time for the other important things in life.

I still would argue that one of the key elements of all of the time and effort that goes into a

job well done is that it comes with rewards.

While certainly there are a number of benefits — financial security, a feeling of satisfaction,

social status, etc. — one of the rewards should be time for yourself. And that is often the one thing we sacrifice when we should be taking

advantage of it. There’s not always tomorrow to take a day off or to spend time with the family or take that vacation you’ve been

looking forward to. So, while there’s always more to do to advance our businesses and

our careers, we must learn to also look for the

opportunities to reap the rewards of our efforts when possible.

I wish you all a safe, healthy and prosperous

new year, and I hope we’ve all learned that our situation can change in spite of anything we

safety protocols, for starters, then you are

do. While we need to push hard to keep our

will just go away in the new year, or in some

to plan time for the other important parts of

probably in trouble. It isn’t likely these things

business lives moving forward, we also need

cases ever.

our lives outside of work.

So, the happenings of 2020 have kept us on

Work will be around long after we are gone, but

our toes, and I will admit I broke my vow to

find more “me time” this past year. However,

that time will come because one of the biggest lessons I learned was that we can’t take the

some of the things we love most might not be.

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

things we love and appreciate for granted.

So, while it might not be tomorrow, or next

week, or even next month, in the new year, I’m once again going to challenge myself to work hard, but also, for the benefit of my work, as

Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org

ISFA Member since 1998

Special Section

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ISFA Virtual Shop Tours (held monthly) Sponsored by Park Industries Tour of ASST Jan. 13 Online 1 - 2 p.m. EST (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org NSI Virtual Stone Summit Jan. 13 – 14 Online (440) 250 9222 The International Surface Event (TISE) Live Jan. 26 – 28 Online (972) 536-6440 KBIS 2021 Feb. 9 – 12 Online (800) 465-5514 NAHB International Builder Show (IBSx) Virtual Experience Feb. 9 – 12 Online (202) 266-8184 NSI Virtual Stone Summit Feb. 10 – 21 Online (440) 250 9222 Coverings Connected Feb. 23 Online (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com BUILDTECH March 9 – 11 Online (248) 362-3700 Canada Woodworking East April 8 – 9 Saint-Hyacinthe, QC Canada (888) 454-7469 Interzum May 4 – 7 Cologne, Germany +49 1806 077 050 www.interzum.com

Xiamen Stone Fair May 18 – 21 Xaimen, China +86-592-5959616 The International Surface Event (TISE) June 16 – 18 Las Vegas, Nev. (972) 536-6440 Coverings 2021 July 7 – 9 Orlando, Fla. (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com AWFS July 20 – 23 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 946-2937 HD Expo & Conference Aug. 24 – 25 Las Vegas, Nev. (888) 769-7861 Cersaie Sept. 27 – Oct. 1 Bologna, Italy +39 0536 818111 Marmomac 2021 Sept. 30 - Oct. 2 Verona, Italy +39 045 8298 561 ISFA Annual Conference Sponsored by GranQuartz, Crossville, Infinity Surfaces, Integra Adhesives and Park Industries Fall Cancun, Mexico (888) 599-ISFA www.ISFAnow.org Woodworking Machinery & Supply Conference and Expo Nov. 4 – 6 Mississauga, ON Canada (319) 389-3352 ICFF Nov. 14 – 15 New York, N.Y.

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

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

ISFA Member since 2015

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

The Most Underutilized Feature in Successful Zoom Presentations

By Ted Janusz

Thirty million PowerPoint presentations are

that they were the only one to not accept your

environment, many of them are now being

place breakout room sessions throughout your

created each day. Given our current pandemic delivered via Zoom. But when giving a virtual presentation, the most underutilized feature

for success of a Zoom meeting presentation is breakout rooms.

It may be because breakout rooms do not appear with the standard setup of a Zoom meeting. You must enable them before your presentation.

Why Are Breakout Rooms So Important?

invitation to join a breakout room. So, strategically presentation. Have one early on in the session,

and keep your participants guessing as to when

All in all, the use of breakout rooms in your Zoom meetings is worth heavy consideration.

About the Author

the next breakout room session will be!

Ted Janusz, MBA, facilitates

For a three- or four-hour virtual presentation

workshops, and has presented

(which is about the maximum length that most participants can endure a virtual presentation), include two breakout room sessions before a

halfway point break, and then one or two after the

more than 4,500 hours on relevant business-related topics internationally. He is a dynamic keynote speaker that helps to

break.

improve businesses and business relationships and can be

success of your Zoom presentation depends

You don’t want to overdo use of this feature, either.

reached at ted@ januspresentations.com.

participants and not about you. While the content

mental break from you. (Remember that you know

success of any presentation is how you make a

think about it. Thinking can be hard work, which is

It goes back to Presentation Skills 101. The on how you make the event be about your

Use it just enough to give your participants a

is important, the most important factor in the

your material, but they don’t. They are having to

connection with your audience. Remember that

why many people don’t like to do it.)

unlike in a physical environment, your competition is now just a click away!

If your virtual presentation is not interesting and

engaging, participants can always have it running in the background, while they check email or

Instagram in the foreground. If you don’t actively engage your participants, you may never know.

That is the beauty of the breakout rooms.

When you utilize breakout rooms in your virtual

presentation, the participants never know when

you might next call on them to join in with you on your presentation.

With one-way communication, and especially with a recorded webinar, they know that they can step

What Do Participants Crave and Miss Most?

The answer to the above question is human

interaction. Many of them have not seen their

colleagues, possibly in months. Even if it is not their regular associates on the virtual platform, many are just happy to actually see other

adults besides those in their houses during this quarantine.

I have delivered 58 three- and four-hour virtual presentations. And while I would like to think I

delivered stellar programs, the feature of those

programs that gets the most rave reviews from participants is the breakout rooms.

Tips To Improve Remote Presentations ■■ Double the number of PowerPoint slides from a live presentation for visual learners because participants no longer have you as the presenter using your entire body to help make the presentation more engaging and interesting.

■■ Enable multiple monitors, so you can have separate windows on the screens for PowerPoint, participants and chat.

■■ Choose to display an uncluttered, professional background. (I viewed an online presentation where the presenter had gray hair and chose a gray virtual background.

I watched as his hair disappeared and reappeared as he moved his head. It definitely took away attention from what he had to say!)

away from their screens, possibly for an hour or

Another challenge for virtual presenters is to

repercussions.

is primarily what presenters miss most about

■■ Have natural light or ring lights positioned in front of you, so that your face is illuminated properly.

It may seem to be more efficient to use your

reactions. Most of your audience will not want to

■■ Buy the latest webcam to deliver a crystal-clear image.

from you. However, if you have a breakout room

■■ Upgrade your microphone for a cleaner, richer sound.

even longer, and that there will probably be no

presentation to simply dump content, but you are

probably looking to be more effective. Participants are more likely to retain information from a presentation they feel they were a part of.

get the audience to turn on their cameras. That a virtual presentation: seeing the participant

let you into their lives if they feel disconnected session early on, they probably won’t want to be the only participant in the room with their

With breakout rooms, participants probably do not

video off. Then they are more likely to leave

talking, laughing and joining in the fun, and they

especially if they anticipate another breakout

want to be embarrassed that everyone else will be

the camera on for the rest of the presentation,

will be missing out. They will not want you to know

room session coming up soon.

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

■■ Position yourself on the screen so that you fill most of it and appear more intimate with your audience. Technology already separates you from your participants, so you don’t want to look like the size of a postage stamp in your setup.

In the Industry Dekton Achieves Carbon Neutrality

Group in strengthening the process of

transformation and evolution that is already

Carbon neutrality has been achieved for the entire

under way, with a view to creating an

life cycle of Dekton® (from cradle to grave),

organizational structure that is increasingly

covering Scopes 1, 2 and 3, from the extraction of

flexible, and that can adapt rapidly to changing

the raw material, to the use of the product and the

contexts. “The global scenario that the world

end of its life. This recognition, obtained through

has been facing in recent months has taught

emission reduction and compensation projects certified by the United Nations, confirms the positive sustainability and environmental

management practices of Cosentino Group, the

Vadara Quartz Partners with Verona Marble Co.

manufacturer of Dekton. It has also been fostered

Vadara Quartz partnered with Verona Marble

by the strong measures taken by the company in

recent years to achieve greater efficiency in terms

Company, a Dallas, Texas-based wholesale stone goods importer and distributor. The move

of energy use, consumption of resources, use of renewable electricity and sustainable mobility

policies. In the field of carbon footprint calculation, an emissions reduction plan has been

implemented, and in the case of Dekton, the plan has resulted in a 7 percent reduction in

has been part of a larger strategy to expand and capture business in new territories by aligning itself with distributors that fit into the existing infrastructure to increase service area functions. The company is now serving the

greenhouse gas emissions created by the

south-central United States, including Texas,

optimization, with investments of more than 3

Kansas and southeastern Missouri. Supported

implementation of best practices and the process

Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, southeastern

million euros.

from Verona Marble Company’s five slab

Princeton Chemical Company Launches Web Store

galleries and distribution centers, Vadara

Princeton Chemical Company now offers its

products for purchase through a dynamic web

environment located at www.princetonchemical. com. The website features product information, safety and testing data and utilizes the latest

communication and e-commerce tools available.

The idea behind the site was simplicity combined with useful tools for adhesive users, according to

the company. Fabricators can edit adhesive charts to create a personal reference page, which is then saved for future visits to the site. Purchases can be made directly from various locations and are

streamlined to reduce processing time. Access is

customers will have more access to service in the fabricator, contractor and design segments.

Verona Marble Company supports consumer, residential and commercial projects.

effectively is with flexible, resilient organizations in which people and their skills are placed in a position to act in a timely manner, adapting to new scenarios in a proactive and successful way,” commented Potenza.

BB Industries Opens West Coast Logistics Center BB Industries added a Southern California

logistics center for expediting shipping to 11 western states. The move is expected to aid the company’s growing sales team and tool vans, and make ordering more efficient for

western U.S. customers. BB Industries has

recently made big strides to heavily expand its outside sales force, increasing local

presence across the United States, with an emphasis on the West.

transaction, Caesarstone has entered into a

Artisan Group has added Granite Mountain

additional growth. Under the terms of the definitive agreement to acquire majority

ownership in Lioli for a cash investment of $12

million, representing an enterprise value of $34 million, including the assumption of debt and

additional consideration of up to approximately $10 million upon the achievement of certain

certificate powered by Sectigo Limited to ensure

customary closing conditions.

year, and the site is protected by an SSL

close before the end of 2020, subject to

stability and security.

Biesse Group Welcomes New Co-CEO Biesse Group welcomed

Caesarstone Ltd. entered into an agreement to

Massimo Potenza into its

Ltd., an India-based producer of porcelain

focus of his work is to

advanced manufacturing facilities. With annual

and implementation of a

acquire majority ownership in Lioli Ceramica Pvt.

leadership team. The

countertop slabs, operating technologically

guide the establishment

revenues of approximately $18 million, Lioli

“Group Reorganization & Transformation”

leverage the strength its brand, global distribution

CEO. As Co-CEO, Potenza will assist the

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

only way we can manage discontinuity

network and award-winning designs into

milestones. The transaction is expected to

Ceramica is an attempt by Caesarstone® to

of being ready for any external change. The

Artisan Group Welcomes New Member: Granite Mountain Countertops

available around the clock and every day of the

Caesarstone Enters Porcelain Market with New Acquisition

us, beyond the health crisis, of the importance

project alongside Roberto Selci, the Group’s

Countertops to the group. Owned by Michael Howard, it operates two locations with nearly 30 employees in Bozeman and Billings,

Mont. Granite Mountain Countertops was originally part of a family business that

included drywall, painting, tile, remodeling, and general contracting and development,

but Howard bought his father and family out of the granite and tile division in 2013, becoming the sole owner.

Premier Surfaces-NY Rebrands to Solid Surfaces NY Premier Surfaces-NY is rebranding itself back to its roots: Solid Surfaces. Clio Holdings

purchased Solid Surfaces Inc. in January of 2017 and branded the company under the

Premier Surfaces umbrella, which consisted of five other East Coast fabricators. During the

following three years, the Rochester Division,

serving Rochester and Buffalo, was integrated

ISFA member since 2020

In the Industry into a more standardized process that was

brings its collection of more than 50 colors and

Clio Holdings team. In January, Clio Holdings

customer. Ongoing and consistent innovative

employed by the collective organization and the

finishes from the showroom direct to the

closed and all six fabrication facilities were

tech investment has been a focus of the brand.

shuttered. In March, the assets of the Rochester

Division were purchased by Gregg Sadwick who guided the employees and customers through

the bankruptcy process and then the COVID-19

shutdown to reestablish the business as Premier Surfaces-NY, retaining all jobs. Sadwick, a local

entrepreneur that got involved with the company after the Clio acquisition, said, “The Rochester Division had been the source of cash for the organization for most of 2019, so it was

important to keep this division operating as an ongoing concern after the bankruptcy.”

Back on their feet, the employees decided to get back to the basics that made Solid Surfaces Inc.

Neolith has strived to become one of the most

Wilsonart To Expand TFL Capacity

company focused significant research and

capacity and footprint in North America with a

create this new suite of interactive and

that the new facility will be fully operational by

digitally and making it accessible to all. Neolith

a new quick-cycle press, which will significantly

app that allows users to dress any residential or

Coast, is the latest milestone in the growth of its

Six•S collection — delivers high levels of

will increase its thermally fused laminate (TFL)

investment on developing its online platforms to

new facility in Klamath Falls, Ore. It is anticipated

immersive features, bringing the brand to life

July 2021. The company’s investment in land and

AR: Augmented Reality — the company’s new

increase production capability on the West

commercial space with the models of the new

TFL business. The Oregon facility will support the continued growth of KML™ and Wilsonart

realism. The virtual reality app allows users to

branded TFL products.

their former name where they will now operate

specification representatives spanning across 12 locations, and warehouses in Memphis, Tenn., and Houston, Texas, fully stocked with Durasein solid surface sheets, every color, pattern and veining style in the company’s collection of decors is available for wholesale.

acquisition, starting with the rebranding back to

changes include shifting the former corporate philosophy of productivity to the old Solid

Surfaces focus on quality, the local market and

the customers it serves. Solid Surfaces NY now fabricates solid surface, natural and engineered stone for kitchen countertops and bathrooms.

Employing 90 people, the company is

adopting the latest innovative systems. The

Wilsonart Engineered Surfaces announced it ®

such a successful organization prior to the

under the DBA Solid Surfaces NY. Additional

sustainable building materials on the market by

BPI’s inventory also includes all available sink models and Durasein’s matching adhesive.

discover and combine the new models of the

Six•S collection and their various finishes in a

unique 360-degree environment. Over the last five years, the company has also launched a number of Neolith Urban Boutiques (NUBs) across the world. Now the platform allows users to visit all NUBs globally.

Aristech Surfaces Commemorates 50 Years of Surfacing Solutions Aristech Surfaces is celebrating the 50th

Anniversary of its founding, which took place in 1970. In celebration of its advancements in the

headquartered in Rochester, N.Y. serving kitchen

surfacing industry, the company provided

and bath dealers in western and central New

information regarding its manufacturing

York. Sales offices are in Rochester and Buffalo,

capabilities, portfolio of surface solutions and

and soon to be in Syracuse.

pioneering path throughout history. On April 2,

Willis Distributes Lapitec Sintered Stone

1968, an alternative to cell-cast acrylic in the

form of the Continuous Casting Process (Patent

Breton S.p.A. appointed Willis as the exclusive

3,376,371) was published with the U.S. Patent

Lapitec® Sintered Stone in its service area. In

Swedlow, invented a method to cast polymeric

Office. Swedlow Inc., led by pioneer David

marketing, sales and functional distributor for October Willis began providing functional

distribution, and implement sales and marketing

strategies to grow the Lapitec brand in California,

Park Industries Receives Manufacturer of the Year Award

Durasein expanded its distribution network with

The 2020 Manufacturer of the Year Award was presented to Park Industries by the Manufacturers Alliance of Minnesota. Park Industries was selected based on peer recognition and their demonstration of sharing continuous improvement experiences that contribute to the overall strength and vitality of Minnesota’s manufacturing community.

wholesale decorative surface and floor covering

Neolith Launches Digital Platform

Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, northern Nevada, Hawaii and Alaska. For Canada, Willis markets include Ontario, Manitoba,

Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.

Durasein Partners with Building Plastics Inc. the addition of Building Plastics Inc. (BPI). A

distributor for 57 years, BPI serves more than 6,000 customers in 11 states. With 14

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

Neolith® launched a new digital platform: Neolith® Virtual Experience. This new tool

compositions in a continuous method. Harder and easier to thermoform than cell-cast, the

innovation opened new markets to the material.

The acrylics industry changed forever with the first customer shipment of continuous cast

acrylic sheet in 1970, under the Aristech Acrylics® brand. Optical clarity, UV stability and chemical

resistance were a few of the inherent qualities in acrylic that were sought after by the aviation industry at the time. This versatile material

continues to be pursued to this day for use in barrier protection from the spread of germs, point-of-purchase displays, thermoformed

signage, furniture and many others. The material found its way into the bath, hot tub and swim

In the Industry spa markets, which drove the continued pursuit of unique textures, a soft touch finish feel, array of

solid colors and marble-patterns sought after globally. After 50 years of rich history, Aristech is defined as a surfacing company offering a full portfolio of material under flagship brands Avonite Surfaces® 100 percent acrylic solid surface; STUDIO Collection® architectural design resin; and Aristech Acrylics® acrylic sheet. Suitable for horizontal or vertical and indoor or outdoor applications, Aristech offers a broad range of surface and design materials to provide aesthetic solutions sought by OEMs, architects, designers and fabricators for industries around the globe.

Aristech’s corporate headquarters is located in Florence, Ky., and it has multiple manufacturing facilities, a distribution network and a global sales force to service customers worldwide.

Cosentino Upgrades Chicago-based Distribution Center Cosentino Group has entered into a long-term lease agreement with Brennan Investment Group to occupy 46,800 sq. ft. of a 128,550-sq.-ft.

building at the Elk Grove Technology Park in Chicagoland. The facility will serve as a primary warehouse and distribution center for the company’s Midwest operations. Elk Grove Technology Park is located northeast of O’Hare International Airport and is less than 25 miles from downtown Chicago.

Hyundai Reinforces Commitment to Health, Wellness and Sustainability Hyundai L&C (Living & Culture) USA announced that all of its products within its HanStone Quartz and Hanex Solid Surfaces premium surfaces brands portfolio have Health Product Declarations (HPDs). The HPD Open Standard provides a framework for product manufacturers and their ingredient suppliers to report and disclose accurate, reliable and consistent information about product contents and associated health information for products in the built environment.

It is a consensus, stakeholder standard governed by the HPD Collaborative, a nonprofit member organization. The HPD Open Standard specification is harmonized with programs of

International Living Future Institute, Cradle-toCradle Product Innovation Institute, Clean Production Action, BIFMA, LEED, WELL and a growing number of rating and certification standards in the building industry. The HanStone Quartz and Hanex Solid Surfaces HPD documents can be found online at www.hanstonequartz.com/ pages/certifications and www.hanexsolidsurfaces. com/pages/certifications respectively.

Coverings Announces New Dates for 2021 Trade Show Coverings international tile and stone exhibition and conference announced that its 2021 live event has been pushed back to July 7 to 9, and will be held at the Orange County Convention Center, in Orlando, Fla. Coverings made the decision to reschedule the event, which was originally planned for April 13 to 16 after feedback from the Coverings community included overwhelming, positive sentiment that rescheduling the event would yield the best possible platform for everyone involved and minimize risk to event participants.

Registration will be open mid-January.

ISFA Member since 2005 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 17

ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: Mid-Atlantic Surfaces

Mid-Atlantic Surfaces was initially founded outside of Richmond, Va., in 1989 under the name Mid Atlantic Manufacturing. However, the company has come a long way since then.

By Kevin Cole, Editor

Utilizing well-known solid surface designer Mario Romano’s textured M.R. Walls products provides another quality option that helps drive alternative, unique vertical applications.

The company was originally designed as a plastic laminate shop, but in the 1990s the business was expanded to include solid surface

fabrication. With the introduction of solid surface, the company chose to focus on its use in residential countertop applications, growing its clientele and sales by leveraging the new product offering.

In 2015, Laurent Claudel acquired the company and took on the role of president. Claudel had spent the previous 25 years of his career

working for various European companies, representing them in the United States, and had developed a keen eye for business. After

reviewing the company and looking for opportunities for potential

growth, it became apparent that the business was overlooking various areas of expansion.

With a thorough understanding of the versatility of solid surface,

Claudel knew there were some real prospects to improve and develop

the business. About a year after purchasing the company, he moved it to a new 30,000-sq.-ft. facility where the business operates today. This

allowed for more advanced solid surface equipment. “It is fair to say that

(From right to left) Laurent Claudel, president and owner of Mid-Atlantic Surfaces, took over the business in 2015 and utilized his management team (David Hawk, Jeff Narron and Brandon Fields) along with other critical staff and key connections outside the business to expand it in numerous positive directions.

until five years ago, 100 percent of our business was coming from

offering hard surface products. However, rather than making the major

of our solid surface business from more complex applications such as

through establishing a partnership with another fabricator.

horizontal applications,” he explained. “We probably generate now a third cladding and thermoforming.”

This broader, more complex work then led to an opportunity for what had by then become Mid-Atlantic Surfaces to move more into the

commercial sector. Claudel also made the decision in 2017 to begin 18 • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

investment to handle quartz, granite, marble, etc., the company did so These types of partnerships, along with the addition of more advanced solid surface fabricating equipment, have been central in his ability to have a nationwide service area operating out of a single location with

only 15 employees. That said, Mid-Atlantic Surfaces has 100 different

Mid-Atlantic Surfaces shows how it combines unique aesthetics with functionality in this solid surface security desk installed at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

projects in various stages at any given time, but does focus the majority of its work within a three- to four-hour radius of the business.

Partnerships, Products, Capabilities A big part of the company’s business and growth is based on the partnerships it has formed. “We have a distribution agreement with CREA

Diffusion, a very innovative fabricator based in France, for the distribution of Plug & Play, a

modular bathroom solution using Corian solid

surface as material,” said Claudel. “We are also a partner with Mario Romano to sell and fabricate his M.R Walls product nationwide.”

Taking advantage of the highly innovative

products these partnerships offer allows for

additional opportunities for the company without requiring additional staff.

While solid surface accounts for 65 percent of the

projects Mid-Atlantic Surfaces sells, 20 percent of the work is hard surfaces, which it subs out to

expand its reach, leaving only 15 percent laminate

work. Offering this broad product choice has been largely of benefit to the company. “Clearly to offer a one-stop shop to our clients and not having to explain what we can do and can’t has been a

plus,” explained Claudel. “It also allows us to use our buying power across different products and vendors, as well as to institute cross-training of

our employees on our different product lines and project type. This keeps things interesting for everybody, and having all of our team

knowledgeable about all of our products

reinforces our role as experts in our space.”

Mid-Atlantic takes advantage of the digital

fabrication process, using LPI’s LT-2D 3-D Laser Templator to produce files it can easily couple

This residential shower wall application is another example of using M.R. Walls products, this time in a Lake Pattern in Corian Glacier White, to increase its offerings. and further differentiates it from those fabricators that just focus on the more common flat applications.

with a CR Onsrud 3-axis 145M CNC machine

On a case-by-case basis, Mid-Atlantic will even

processes keeps production high and labor

business or express the importance the company

The company also has a full-size sheet

be more of a solution provider rather than just a

Products as well as a Global Vacuum table. This

always a balance between achieving that goal

nearly any challenge in solid surface fabrication,

business and what we can control. So, we tend to

be careful. It really comes down to the quality of

the partners we have. Once we like a relationship, we push hard and it sometimes opens up new horizons.”

using Alphacam. This use of more advanced

offer cabinetry when it helps to drive the core

While the company continues to handle residential

requirements low, while also increasing output.

places on a valued customer. “We are pushing to

has grown to be a significant 95 percent of the

thermoforming oven from Shultz Forming

product provider,” put forth Claudel. “But it’s

setup allows the company to take on just about

while not moving too far away from our core

projects, in the past five years commercial work business. And Mid-Atlantic uses pretty much

every outlet at its disposal to keep busy. Whether

repeat business or cold prospection, millwork and exhibit houses account for a respectable 60

percent of its work. Another 30 percent can be International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 19

Mid-Atlantic Surfaces takes advantage of advanced machinery as well as highly skilled, cross-trained staff to be able to offer quality, high-end products.

attributed to general contractors, via repeat business, using bidding platforms and just

reaching out directly. Of the remaining 10 percent, half is developed via reaching out to architects and designers through networking (via

presentations, independent reps or social

networking platforms, such as LinkedIn), and the other half is direct sales (residential) that is

developed through word-of-mouth referrals or website traffic.

Whatever method, the fabricator then

concentrates on just what it can do, above and beyond, to set itself apart.

Philosophy for Success Rather than just focusing on a particular brand or product to be a major driving force behind the

business and influencing sales, Mid-Atlantic takes a different approach.

“More than a specific material, what moves our business forward is how we use the materials,” explained Claudel. “The architect and design community often just sees solid surface as a

countertop material or used just for horizontal applications. However, there are so many

uncharted territories that we are just starting to

explore. We are working on bringing solutions that allow end users to interact emotionally with our

products using their senses (sight, touch) instead of just using them for their function. There is so much untapped potential.

“We are not afraid of working outside of what we have historically done, both technically and

strategically,” continued Claudel. “We also try to

look at things differently with a different attitude.

We work hard to see a solution where most

people see a problem. We push to be a solution provider instead of a product supplier and

prioritize building a network of relationships to stand up in a very crowded space.”

While pondering the nature of success as it relates to the business, Claudel heavily credited the

human factor. “Success can be defined in so many ways, but in general terms I would say This curved bench at the Army Museum in Washington, D.C., shows how the Mid-Atlantic leverages the versatility of solid surface to go beyond just countertop applications.

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

surrounding yourself, both professionally and

personally, with the right people who are defining

ISFA Member since 2020

Another way the company utilizes relationships to extend its reach is by subcontracting hard surface work such as these three quartz projects: (left) in the common area at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, (middle) at a nurse’s station at the Sheltering Arms Institute in Richmond, Va., and (right) in the press area of the Richmond Raceway. success the same way you do and working hard on what you are passionate about is central.

However, maintaining a personal balance so you don’t forget what is really important in your life also is a big part of success.”

Continuing on his expression on the importance of people, Claudel said, “From a more business related standpoint, having the best employees (and I do), and being curious and willing to consider and try new things are important. These things help to prepare your business for what it may need to look like in the future, but you also have to keep your eyes on the ball because the way you execute things today will define tomorrow. Overall success is a balancing act – easy, right?”

The last part of Claudel’s discussion of the role of others in the success of his business was regarding networking and being part of industry organizations. Admitting that running a business and finding time to get involved isn’t always the easiest endeavor, but that it is a must. “It is a long-term investment that can pay immensely with just one project; it is just difficult to know when and where it will pay off,” he explained.

“Because of our limited size and resources, our success can depend on who we know and how we can leverage other resources and capabilities.

Networking helps us tremendously with that.”

Of course the company has been faced with the same problems that currently face all fabricators during the difficult times that come with 2020.

And of course, these things will have a significant effect on the future.

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

Looking Forward

“A good portion of what we do can be

considered a commodity, so keeping up sales in this environment comes down, as before, to making it easy for people to do business

with us, expanding our offering both in terms of geography and product mix, and being even more flexible so the business is a solution

provider more than a product supplier,” Claudel said. “I believe that because of our small size, our overall success is much more affected by

During the current climate all businesses,

our own performance rather than what the

changes to mitigate risks, keep up sales, stay in

market share nationwide, for example, it really

out ways to continue to conduct business.

and comes down more to how good we are at

immune to the effects of the pandemic as the

to try us out and executing projects well.

fabricators not withstanding, have had to make

market is doing. If we have a 0.01 percent

touch with their client bases and generally figure

is less about what the market is doing overall,

Mid-Atlantic Surfaces certainly has not been

creating brand recognition, getting prospects

world waits to return to some sort of normalcy.

“Think outside of the box,” said Claudel when

The company has done well avoiding too many

asked what advice he might give to other

conditions, although it had to overcome a few

doing, then by definition you will be average.

contractor had tested positive for COVID-19.

ever these days because our future will depend

problems in the face of unprecedented

fabricators. “If you do what everybody else is

issues, including being at a jobsite where another

Expand your social network, even more than

Thankfully none of the employees have tested

on how much we help each other out.

positive, but the business did have to have some employees quarantine while waiting for test results, just to be safe. “Stress levels are

definitely up even though we are very busy

because our aptitude to see what is ahead of us is not as good as it typically is,” said Claudel.

He went on to explain that he believes the shop is following the same risk mitigation procedures as most others, including daily temperature checks

for all employees, practicing social distancing as much as possible and wearing masks when

necessary, particularly on jobsites. However,

Claudel said with the company mainly working

commercial ventures it can get difficult because

“It feels good to help out and it’s the right thing to do, anyway,” he continued. “I am amazed

sometimes how a small talk at a trade show or other event turned into something big a few years down the road.”

With the positive attitude, ability to form

partnerships with others for mutual benefit and focus on putting out consistently solid work that sets it aside from more traditional fabricators, Mid-Atlantic Surfaces has

established a unique position in the market that puts it in a position for a strong, positive future.

taking place along with other trades finishing their

For more information about Mid-Atlantic Surfaces, 2559 Turkey Creek Road, Oilville, VA 23129, contact Laurent Claudel at (804) 798-7462 or laurent.claudel@midatlanticsurfaces.com, or visit www.midatlanticsurfaces.com.

additional precautions and the proper timing.

Editor Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfa now.org.

commercial jobsites tend to be crowded toward

the end of projects when surfacing installation is portions of the work. That requires some

Despite the cancellation of Cersaie and other design trade shows around the world, Italian manufacturers continue to invent new designs and invest in technologies to keep expanding the versatility and value proposition of ceramics for the market. After all, Italian ceramic tile has long been prized for its functionality, durability, ease of maintenance, hygiene, water and frost resistance, as well as its aesthetics. In terms of design, the current trends can be summed up in four words: natural, colorful, playful and large.

LARGE

LARGE FORMAT - Italgraniti, Lux Experience

FORMAT PORCELAIN

& Other Current

TILE TRENDS

By Ceramics of Italy

LARGE FORMAT - Fincibec, OVER Large Format Tiles and Slabs Extra-large tiles are growing in popularity in the U.S. market, and for good reason: they’re elegant, durable, versatile and safe. The typical large-format porcelain tiles come in sizes up to 5.5 by 10.25 ft. and thicknesses ranging from 3.5mm to 2cm, enabling countless applications

LARGE FORMAT - Atlas Concord, Marvel Shine

Copyright 2020 by Ceramiche Atlas Concorde S.p.A.

However, ceramic trends don’t end with just the large-format surfaces/slabs that have been the talk of designers and fabricators in the United States. There are numerous trends with the more traditional sizes of tile that are very much applicable to modern design.

tiles are so thin, they can even be installed on

top of existing surfaces, which may be ideal for renovation projects.

Meanwhile, thick porcelain slabs (ranging

from 1.2cm to 2cm) can be installed in one piece just like a slab of marble, creating a

countertop solution that’s beautiful, durable,

and design possibilities.

and practical. Handling and installing large-

On the thinner side of the spectrum, large

there are standards (such as ANSI Standards

tiles are perfect for walls, backsplashes, and furnishings as they come in an endless variety of designs and can be easily cut, machined and drilled to create custom solutions. Because the

format tile takes experience and skill, but

A137.3 and A108.19) and webinars hosted by associations like NTCA and ISFA that

offer helpful guidelines for working with and installing gauged porcelain tile panels.

AUTUMNAL - FAP Ceramiche, Sheer Autumnal Autumn is historically a season of transition and one where nature is the main protagonist. As temperatures drop, leaves start to change color, apples and pumpkins are harvested, and fires International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 23

on interior spaces. Whether the designs are a

kaleidoscope of colors or floating fragments of shapes, the patterns lend a burst of energy to

backsplashes and walls. Even speckled stone and ancient techniques like Venetian terrazzo

can add an interesting layer of perceived texture to surfaces and help develop a cohesive, contemporary design. This trend works

especially well on extra-large tiles that minimize grout lines and allow the pattern to shine.

AUTUMNAL - Ceramiche Brennero, Explora

BLUE-GREEN - LAMINAM, Ossido

dot the landscape of countless backyards. This

Blue-Green

year Italian manufacturers were clearly inspired by the effects of fall with motifs and colors that

With blue and green dominating this year

conjure the feeling of a crisp autumn day or

— emerald was touted as designers’ go-to

cozy night by the fire. Organic hues like earthy

color and classic blue was Pantone’s color of

browns, golden yellows and burgundy reds are

the year — it should be no surprise that this

a few autumnal examples alongside tiles with

natural effects like wood and stone in a warm palette. Collection names like “Matter” and

tertiary color is king among many new Italian CONCRETE - Cotto d’Este, Grunge

“Husk” and colorways like “Autumn” further solidify this trend.

Concrete

Confetti

Concrete is a ubiquitous building material

Nothing dazzles like a bag full of confetti,

which is the same effect that these tiles have

that has allowed creative architectural

expression since ancient times. The Romans used it to build the dome of the Pantheon

nearly 2,000 years ago, and modernists used it to create load-bearing columns that would make their buildings appear lighter. Long

admired for its strength and beauty, concrete continues to serve as a muse for architects as well as manufacturers.

tile collections. Color trends reflect the overall emotions and mood of society and according to color theorists, blue-green combines the tranquil effects of blue with the optimistic

feeling of green, which is much needed in

these uncertain times. Hues of blue-green also have strong associations with water, from the turquoise of glacial lakes to the aquamarine water of the Mediterranean Sea, which can

help people find quieter moments and peace of mind without traveling.

High Gloss Glossy tiles are making a comeback, allowing walls to pop with perfectly smooth surfaces

CONFETTI - Casalgrande Padana, Macro 24 • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

HIGH GLOSS - Blustyle, Elite

and beautiful shine. Glossy finishes are

Regardless of if it is in pursuit of the growing

also a good option for areas that need to

large-format tile and slab countertops or

be cleaned often — from backsplashes and

backdrops with which to feature various

showers to exterior walls, offering a way

other materials, the trends and appeal of tile

to add both flair and durability to the built

continue to remain very relevant in today’s

environment. In some collections, light and

designs. The right choices can certainly make

reflection are the main features, allowing

the difference between dazzle and dud.

designers to accentuate architectural

features and construct chic environments

full of drama. However, most tile lines offer a

About the Author

high gloss, which can be used concurrently

These trend-setting products from Ceramics of Italy

variety of finishes, ranging from ultra-matte to to create a perception of depth and eye-

members, and hundreds of others from numerous

catching texture.

tile manufacturers, are now available in the North

Deco

American market through an extensive network of

Art deco is a classic trend that never really

tile dealers and retailers. For additional products

geometric shapes and decadent details,

www.ceramica.info. For information on individual

and inspiration, visit the “Product Gallery” on

goes out of style. Characterized by bold

deco tiles feature chevron patterns, arches

companies across the Italian ceramic sector, visit the

of contrasting marble, and scallops full

organization’s new “Italian Ceramic Finder” feature

of color. Traditional deco style leans

on the website.

toward striking contrasts, visible in many collections. Others offer bold geometric

All photos courtesy of Ceramics of Italy

shapes in monochrome palettes to create a powerful yet subdued statement.

DECO - Settecento, Reverse

ISFA Member since 2018

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 25

SinkSpotlight stylish, these prefabricated Corian sinks are a beautiful and useful addition to a design vision.

See our ad on Page 15

America Standard Studio S Above Counter Sinks from American Standard combine modern beauty and superior functionality. Every piece in this curated Studio S collection is designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Designed to create a contemporary focal point, the Vanity Top and Above Counter sinks pair with the new vanities to offer modular versatility in any space. The European-inspired silhouettes are juxtaposed with vitreous china for a smooth, glossy finish that resists chipping and scratching. Both sinks are available via online retailers and at kitchen and bath showrooms nationwide.

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BLANCO BLANCO is elevating kitchen ergonomics with its new IKON® 33-in. Apron 1-3/4 Bowl with Low Divide sink. Designed to make prepping, cooking and cleaning a more seamless and 26 • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Corian The Corian® Elements offering gives you the freedom to choose from a range of prefabricated solid surface sinks that can be easily and seamlessly integrated into Corian® Solid Surface and Corian® Quartz countertops for one continuous surface. This eliminates rims and grout that trap dirt and water, minimizing cleaning and long-term maintenance. Corian sinks provide high levels of longevity in performance, versatility and hygiene. The nonporous solid surface means that with proper cleaning the sinks will not harbor the growth of mold or mildew, as well as making the surface extremely resistant to staining. Convenient and

Durat Colorful sinks — not two words that are typically paired together, but with Durat solid surface from CaraGreen, you can have just that. Add a pop of color in a neutral top or create a seamless integral sink. Give your customers something out of the ordinary with bright reds, blues and oranges, or the more neutral grays and whites. Durat is not like other solid surfaces in that it can be customized

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Integrate Durat sinks with colorful countertops to create easily cleaned, seamless and healthy solid surface installations.

Gemstone

DXV DXV’s Belshire Undermount Sink collection, inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1920s, exudes the optimism, sophistication and elegance of the era, enhanced by the conveniences of today. The undermount sink perfectly complements this collection with its detailed faceted corners that slope gracefully to the center and the high-gloss vitreous china that reflects the glamour of the Art Deco period. The Belshire collection is available through an exclusive network of showrooms across North America.

The new Gemstone FS3019-S Farm Sink is the first farm sink designed for both new construction and remodeling into existing cabinets. The apron on the front of the sink can be cut and finished for existing cabinets so custom cabinets are NOT required. This innovation allows everyone to enjoy the functionality and beauty of a stylish farm sink in any cabinet 30 in. and larger. Visit www.

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Karran Karran Sinks now offers workstation sinks in both stainless steel and quartz composite. The WS-37 is a 32-in.-wide single bowl undermount sink that comes complete with not only the basket strainer, bottom grid, cutting board, drying rack, colander and colander plate, but also with a beautiful 22-in.-tall commercial style Karran stainless steel faucet. If you are looking for a farmhouse workstation option, Karran also has a new WS-45 that also comes with the same assortment of accessories, plus a new Karran faucet.

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KOHLER Elkay Elkay Lustertone Iconix sinks bring the winning combination of a sophisticated look and a forgiving finish to the home and beyond, offering long-lasting durability against light scratches and the added benefit of repairability.

The clean lines of this modern sink add a touch of elegance to any kitchen. Elkay also expanded the Iconix stainless steel collection this year to offer homeowners more sizes and variety. Lustertone Iconix comes in 16- and 18-gauge options and offers tight corners and a flat bottom to allow for more space inside the sink. This collection also features Sound Guard® sound-deadening pads that minimize sound and vibration.

GROHE GROHE Eurocube Wall Mount and Undermount sinks (shown here) with sharp lines and precise angles offer a clean, tailored look in the bathroom. Made of fine fireclay with meticulous attention to detail, the sinks reflect the exceptional design character. Gently curved bowl and rich luster combined with the smooth contemporary aesthetic make Eurocube sinks a great complement to today’s luxury countertops and vanities. GROHE also offers Essence Wall Mount and Undermount sinks with gentle curves and visually pleasing contours for a softer design aesthetic. Also made of fine fireclay, these sinks complement an elegant bathroom and create a space that

KOHLER offers sinks featuring Neoroc composite material designed for durability and functionality. Neoroc is a proprietary material that is colored all the way through and is resistant to scratches and stains, and is impact- and heat-resistant to 750 F. It has UV inhibitors to prevent fading, and the matte finish is a great complement to any countertop. The sinks are available in various configurations, including bar sinks, and both large and small single- and double-bowl sinks.

Some designs come with a sink rack for added protection. The variety of designs makes it very versatile, and there are both top-mount and undermount options with these highly durable sinks. They are manufactured to the highest standards, and most have limited lifetime warranties.

See our ad on Page 29 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 27

LOTTE An integral Staron sink from LOTTE will improve the efficiency and hygienic qualities of kitchen and bath areas or any interior commercial applications. The all-acrylic Staron sinks and bowls can be installed in combination with Staron sheet materials as part of a continuous surface, featuring imperceptible seams for a perfect and uninterrupted fit. That also means there are no gaps or crevices for bacteria or mold to accumulate and grow. Whichever style you choose, Staron’s nonporous, ultra-hygienic surfaces will always be easy to clean and maintain. They are available in five coordinated sink color options in white and ivory shades, offered in a collection of 16 popular models.

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

MR Direct Install undermount sinks into laminate countertops with MR Direct’s SinkLink. This innovative installation piece flawlessly conjoins the undermount sink and laminate countertop in a flushed finish. Constructed from thick durable plastic, SinkLink is offered in white, gray and black to match any decor. It also comes in different sizes, making it compatible with a wide range of popular MR Direct stainless steel and porcelain undermount sinks. The smooth texture allows for a perfect pairing to an array of laminate countertop styles. SinkLink allows you to be creative with your work while offering a cost-effective option for your client.

SCHOCK SCHOCK’s CRISTADUR Green Line is naturally manufactured with all the premium quality features inherent in CRISTADUR and is being launched in two different colors: Night and Day. Night embodies a truly intense graphite black, while Day offers the sharpest possible contrast — the whitest of pure whites that SCHOCK has ever made. The CRISTADUR Green Line KALLIO (898mm by 630mm) is designed in a contemporary country kitchen look.

US Surfaces US Surfaces offers classic stainless, solid surface and a signature series of sinks available in dozens of styles, sizes and configurations to complement modern designs. The Signature Series is the ultimate expression of design innovation using the finest materials and meticulous attention to detail. Available in beautiful copper, fireclay and ceramic, durability meets design. The hammered copper sink is made from 99 percent pure mined copper with a durable 14-gauge thickness. Its extra deep basin will hide any potential scratches with a natural patina that ages beautifully over time.

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Wilsonart Wilsonart’s sleek, 100 percent acrylic solid surface sinks are beautiful and hard-working. Wilsonart® Solid Surface sinks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including ADA-compliant options, and many sinks come with built-in overflows. These overflows are internal and already activated, making it easy for fabricators to finish a project.

Moreover, maintenance is simple with no lip or ledge to catch debris. When paired with the right solid surface slab, you create a visually monolithic sink and surface combination. And with more than 19 sinks to choose from, you are sure to find the

right fit for any project.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 29

COVID-19, OSHA Standards and the Surfacing Industry

By Mary Malotke

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic

through October 2020, OSHA inspections have resulted in OSHA citing the employers in 85 establishments for violations relating to the

Coronavirus. These citations have resulted in proposed OSHA penalties of $1,222,156.

discussed below in the order of the frequency in which they are cited.

OSHA inspections have resulted in the agency citing employers for violations including failure to do the following:

■■ Record an injury or illness on OSHA recordkeeping forms.

■■ Comply with the General Duty Clause (5(a))

for cutting, grinding, polishing, lifting, installing,

warehousing, other storage and manufacturing.

■■ Implement a written respirator program,

Detailed resources are also available on the

Act of 1970, employers are responsible for

■■ Provide a medical evaluation, a fit test and training on the proper use of the respirator,

gov/SLTC/covid-19/additional_resources.html) to

their employees. OSHA’s role is to help assure

■■ File reports with OSHA on injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health

providing safe and healthful workplaces for

these conditions are there to protect America’s working men and women by setting and

education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.

10 Steps Your Worksite Can Use To Reduce Risk Associated with COVID-19 Virus

The mission of the Department of Labor is to

1. Encourage workers to stay home if sick.

the wage earners, job seekers and retirees

2. Encourage respiratory etiquette, including how to cover coughs and sneezes.

enforcing standards and providing training,

foster, promote and develop the welfare of of the United States; improve working

conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits

and rights. With regard to COVID-19, the focus on risk is typically on inhalation and exhalation

of very small particles or droplets. When talking, sneezing, singing or similar actions, these

droplets can carry the virus with them in the air.

This article is intended to help employers

understand which OSHA regulations have

been cited most frequently during COVID-19 related inspections. This data is based on

instances where OSHA initiated inspections

3. Provide a place to wash hands or alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60 percent alcohol.

4. Limit worksite access to only essential workers, if possible.

5. Establish flexible worksites (e.g., telecommuting) and flexible work hours (e.g., staggered shifts), if feasible.

6. Discourage workers from using other workers’ phones, desks or tools.

and healthcare facilities, as well as construction

7. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, equipment and other elements in the work area.

and warehousing for storage and distribution

8. Use EPA-approved cleaning chemicals.

By understanding which workplace hazards

9. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use of all cleaning and disinfection products.

because of complaints or referrals, in medical and installation to remodel related locales, facilities.

have most often resulted in OSHA citations, you can help ensure that you are better protecting your workers and minimizing the possibility of

being cited. The common standards that OSHA has used so far this year to cite employers are

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

10. Encourage workers to report any safety and health concerns.

agency’s COVID-19 webpage (https://www.osha. help employers comply with these standards.

The OSHA Standards Specifically Related to COVID-19:

■■ Provide a medical evaluation before a worker is fit-tested or uses a respirator.

■■ Perform an appropriate fit test for workers using tight fitting respirators.

■■ Employers must assess the workplace to

determine if COVID-19 hazards are present, or likely to be present, which will require the use of a respirator and potentially other personal protective equipment (PPE).

■■ Establish, implement and update a written respiratory protection program with required worksite-specific procedures.

■■ Provide an appropriate respirator and/or

other PPE to each employee when necessary to protect the health of the employees

(ensuring the respirator and/or PPE used is the correct type and size).

■■ Train workers to safely use respirators and/ or other PPE in the workplace, and retrain

workers when changes in the workplace make previous training obsolete.

■■ Store respirators and other PPE properly in a way to protect them from damage, contamination and, where applicable,

deformation of the face piece and exhalation valve.

■■ For any fatality that occurs within 30 days

of a work-related incident, report the fatality to

OSHA within eight hours of finding out about it.

■■ Keep required records of any work-related fatalities, injuries and illness.

In addition to airborne particulate generated when manufacturing and finishing surfaces

(NAISCS # 327991), installation of the surfacing material can also be considered a construction job (NAISCS # 236220).

Training Construction Workers Train construction crews on the signs and

symptoms of COVID-19 and an explanation of

how the disease is potentially spread, including the fact that infected people can spread the virus even if they do not have symptoms.

Employers should inform employees about appropriate social distancing and hygiene practices. This includes avoiding physical

contact with others and maintaining a distance of at least 6 ft. from each other whenever

possible, including areas inside work trailers or any other enclosed spaces.

Also, teach employees about appropriate

personal cleaning practices such as washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not

immediately available, ensure employees use alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at

least 60 percent alcohol. They should rub their

hands together thoroughly until they are dry.

Make sure you have the supplies to sanitize all surfaces workers will touch.

Follow proper procedures on how to

cleaning chemicals with a label that claims it will work to kill the coronavirus for cleaning frequently touched surfaces like tools and their handles.

cover coughs and sneezes following CDC

Ask employees to report any additional safety

recommendations.

and health concerns.

Wear a mask at all times when around other

Author’s Note: This article blends excerpts from

people to keep the droplets from spreading the virus.

Encourage driving to worksites or parking areas

www.OSHA.gov, lists of common citations and the required needs for surface fabricators to evaluate their work spaces for possible exposure

individually, when possible, without passengers

to COVID-19.

Teach types, proper use, limitations, location,

About the Author

or people in car pools confined together. handling, decontamination, removal and disposal of any PPE being used.

Teach employees to continue to wear masks

that cover their noses and mouths to prevent them from spreading the virus.

There is also a need to continue using other normal control measures, including PPE,

necessary to protect workers from other job

hazards associated with construction activities.

Use Environmental Protection Agency approved

Mary Malotke is Senior Engineering Manager for TechneTrain, Inc. TechneTrain has a full line of safety training programs and reference manuals designed for the surface fabrication industry, including a turnkey employee training program for the airborne crystalline silica regulations, a Federal OSHA Compliance Manual, Complete Hazard Communications Guide and Training Set and dozens of other products. All of these numerous training programs are now available in various formats including on flash drives, DVDs and written manuals. These products are available from ISFA at discounted prices. For further information visit www.technetrain.net or call (800) 852-8314.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 31

COVID-19 U.S. Economic Impact

By The Freedonia Group

This information, excerpted from a larger document, is based

Figure 1

on actively monitoring company and industry reports on

how COVID-19 is affecting demand, investment and industry consolidation. Since The Freedonia Group released its U.S.

economic forecasts on February 28, 2020, the unfolding scope of the crisis requires ongoing marketplace reassessments. Figure 1 summarizes the evolution of Freedonia forecasts since that time.

Real GDP – 2020-2024 CAGR Feb. 2020 – 1.9%; Nov. 2020 – 1.3% In the third quarter of 2020, real GDP rebounded at a 33 percent annualized rate. However, gains in the final quarter of the year

are expected to be much more modest (see Figure 2). A rise in

COVID-19 infection rates during the fall has spurred some state

and local governments to reimpose mitigation efforts. Those will

Figure 2

serve as a brake on economic growth in the fourth quarter. At

least two vaccine candidates demonstrated potential to prevent COVID-19 infection in the fall. If an effective vaccine can be

deployed early in 2021, prospects for economic growth during the year will brighten.

Personal Consumption Spending – 2020-2024 Feb. 2020 – 2%; Nov. 2020 – 1.5% Personal consumption spending expanded at a 41 percent annualized rate in the third quarter of 2020 (see Figure 3).

Consumption of durable goods rose the fastest, with home

improvement projects supporting gains. Spending on services advanced at a 38 percent annualized pace after the loosening

of shelter-in-place restrictions. After peaking at 14.7 percent in

April, the unemployment rate declined to 6.9 percent in October

Figure 3

as businesses reopened and workers were recalled. Additional

improvement during the remainder of 2020 is likely to be slower given the reimposition of social distancing regulations.

Retail Sales – 2020-2024 Feb. 2020 3.4%; Nov. 2020 2.9% Through October, retail and foodservice sales were virtually

the same as during the comparable 10-month period during

2019 (see Figure 4). Outlets for food and beverages, building materials and online retail all had double-digit increases,

offsetting sharp declines for sales of food eaten away from

home and for outlets selling clothing, electronics and gasoline.

A return of some shelter-in-place restrictions in the last two

months of 2020 will likely limit retail sales. Retail outlets have incurred additional costs to conduct business in a way that reduces virus transmission.

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

Figure 4

Construction Spending – 2020-2024 Feb. 2020 1.6%; Nov. 2020 1.4% Construction has been one of the better performing economic sectors in 2020 (see Figure 5). After a 12 percent annualized drop in the second quarter, spending rebounded in the third quarter, with residential construction accounting for most of the gains.

Both new housing construction and improvements to existing units have contributed to growth. Commercial building and nonbuilding construction have had less sanguine performance.

Manufacturers’ Shipments – 2020-2024 Feb. 2020 0.9%; Nov. 2020 0.0% Through September, manufacturers’ shipments were 7.8 percent lower than in the comparable period in 2019, measured without seasonal adjustment (see Figure 6). During the year, manufacturing costs have risen as facilities implemented enhanced disinfection procedures, redesigned work processes and supplied personal protective equipment to workers to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission.

Figure 5

These snapshots looking toward the future were released in late September of 2020, and may not reflect changes in the pandemic or political atmosphere seen in November and December of 2020.

About the Author

The Freedonia Group is a market research group originally formed in 1985. From its original five employees, the company has grown to a staff of about 100 in its main headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, and a satellite office in Beijing, China. The Freedonia Group regularly puts out forecasts for various segments of the economy, including countertops, solid surface and other products related to the surfacing industry.

For more information, visit www.freedoniagroup.com. All figures are courtesy of The Freedonia Group.

Figure 6

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 33

Here.Now.News.

From the Desk of Nancy Busch, Executive Director

Sometimes Things Don’t Go Quite As Planned “I’m a girl who loves to share information, especially empowering, life-changing, information.” – Marilu Henner In the midst of changing weather and the

holidays, many consider it the official kickoff

to baking season. This will likely be truer this

year than any other, as we are all staying home more. However, for me, the baking season is year-round.

My love of baking cakes started as a latchkey kid back in the day. I remember the pain I felt

when I finished my first “masterpiece.” It was

just ever so slightly underbaked, and I had not yet learned the power of a skim coat before

frosting. So, as the chocolate kept coming off

into the frosting, I thought, “I will just decorate my way out of this situation.” An entire bag

of chocolate chips later, it still wasn’t much to look at. As my older brother teased and

made jokes about it, I hung my head in defeat.

I wanted to just throw it away, but my mother wasn’t about to let it go to waste. That night, after dinner, the cake was cut for serving. To my surprise, it was delicious. There was not

one piece left over. So, I quickly learned that

sometimes all is not lost. There is always some good that comes from learning something

new and trying your best. Even if it does not turn out quite as you had expected, it might

still bring someone else pleasure and there’s

always a lesson learned from the experience.

It also turns out that a slightly undercooked cake is much tastier than one that is overcooked.

Since then, I have made what seems like a million cupcakes for a thousand wonderful

reasons. There is so much satisfaction in both the process and the finished product. Okay,

there is frosting, but sampling it is critical for

their wedding cakes, my kids blowing out the candles or my husband “paying” his way into the races with my cupcakes.

Just as baking is a skill that can be learned, practiced and improved, our industry relies on skilled craftsmanship. This is where my passion for the community that is ISFA really kicks in. All our members have a story or a worthy lesson learned that’s capable of helping another. The idea is to bring these people together to be able to share this invaluable information. In our current reality, finding ways of connecting members continues to be our focus. While not perfect, we learned a lot from hosting this year’s virtual Modern Surfaces Training and our Annual Conference. This was true of both the technical details and as a team.

Our ISFA crew stepped up and in the process of bringing something special to our members, we were able to get to know one another much faster than likely possible hosting a live event.

With our staff working in a virtual office setting, we all pulled together and engaged in the event as a team. I am so appreciative of their hard work and for the individual lessons they shared with me in the process.

As travel becomes possible again, the effort and skills learned in the current environment will no doubt improve the experience of our live events, too. So, the journey will end up being well worth the effort.

Sometimes it takes a little grit to figure out something new, but the opportunity to share what you have learned to help another is great motivation to get you through.

quality control purposes.

After having spent many hours honing my

skills, baking will always be a great creative outlet. However, now the focus is on the

opportunity to teach my craft. I hope to share the joy I have had in watching my nieces cut

Nancy Busch, ISFA Executive Director nancy@isfanow.org

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

ISFA Events & Training

Because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the pandemic and the instruction by federal, state and local officials to avoid travel where possible, ISFA events will remain virtual for at least the first part of the year. However, some live events are potentially in the works for the latter part of the year when it is expected that safe travel will be able to resume.

Virtual Shop Tours Program Sponsored by Park Industries Zoom-based tours of fabrication facilities will be held monthly throughout the year ASST in McSherrytown, Pa., will be he first tour of 2021 January 13 at 1 p.m. EST. www.isfanow.org/shop-tour ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting Sponsored by GranQuartz, Park Industries, Infinity Surfaces, Crossville and Integra Adhesives Cancun, Mexico Fall 2021 For additional information and registration options, please visit www. isfanow.org or email nancy@isfanow.org.

ISFANews

ISFA Wraps Up Year with Successful Virtual Annual Conference ISFA held its 2020 Annual Conference Nov.

Speakers and presenters included a variety of

demonstrated

because of safety concerns regarding travel.

ideas. Laura Juarez, countertop industry

commitment to

4 and 5 online this year in a virtual format Although this was the first time ISFA had

put on an online conference, feedback from the nearly100 registered participants was resoundingly positive.

The full two-day event included numerous

educational sessions and networking events, along with video sessions showcasing new products, its annual member meeting and

veteran and founder of Pure Potential, spoke

the ideals of ISFA.

the current and changing times and how

past ISFA Awards,

Stephen Alberts, of HeyRemodelers,

an inspiration to all

Online Marketing” and “Reimagining Lead

repeatedly given

on “Reimagining Strategy” in the face of

Having won several

to improve the strategic planning process.

Russ Berry is truly

spoke in two sessions on “Reimagining

fabricators. He has

Generation,” covering SEO, online ads and

award presentations, and much more.

reviews, website optimization and using Google

Designed with both interactive portions as

book Innovate To Dominate, which reframes

well as prerecorded information, the unique

format allowed industry professionals to talk, share ideas, participate in presentations, ask

questions of presenters, and have both formal and informal discussions. The results from the 2020 ISFA Board of Directors Election were announced at the event. Participants also

received interactivity boxes in advance of the

event that contained various items that helped

to further the connection between participants.

“This was an opportunity for businesspeople

and professionals in all areas of the surfacing industry to learn and share ideas as well as

to your advantage. Mark Dancer, author of the the term “innovation” and provides research

of his time and

expertise to ISFA

and its members,

and his approach to

business, along with

into what leading companies are doing to

on “Reimagining Innovation.” His presentation

the fabrication community through showcasing

marketplaces are altering the way that business

high-end and highly visible projects. Berry has

develop businesses for the long term, spoke

all others. Russ’s work at ASST has elevated

focused on the changing world in which virtual

solid surface design capability in complex

is conducted, and he offered ideas on how real-

world businesses could reimagine their purpose around today’s business values and social

trends, and innovate for competitive market advantage.

ISFA Annual Award Winners Announced At the Annual Conference, ISFA announced the

people in the industry came together in this

are chosen by association members, and given

accustom to, and were able to spend some

very best.

Nancy Busch. “Some of the best and brightest

2020 ISFA Awards winners. The ISFA awards

new virtual world that we are all growing

to those in the industry that stand out as the

networking.”

Russ Berry, of ASST in McSherrytown, Pa., was inducted into the ISFA Hall of Fame.

his innovative creativity, sets him apart from

best practices,” said ISFA Executive Director

productive time together learning and

leadership and

individuals all focused on reimagine-centric

Past ISFA President Russ Berry, of ASST in

McSherrytown, Pa., was inducted into the ISFA

With the huge changes we have had to

Hall of Fame, joining a long list of esteemed

was “Reimagining,” which was represented

is given to the individual who has, in the course

presentations and educational sessions.

to the decorative surfacing industry, and has

face in 2020, the theme of the conference

industry professionals. The Hall of Fame Award

not just in the new online format, but in the

of his/her career, made significant contributions

served as a past ISFA President, has hosted

ISFA events, and he serves as a fine example to the entire industry.

The other honored winners are: The Fabricator of the Year Award was given to world-class fabricator The Countertop

Factory Midwest in Chicago. The Fabricator of the Year is awarded to 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 Countertop Factory Midwest is a company that is known for its generous support and mentorship of other

fabricators in the industry. Owners Geoffrey

Gran and Bill Heuer are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise around sales, fabrication and general business. They are

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 35

ISFANews consistently helping the industry grow and

ISFA Board of Directors

improve, and their business is a true example

Election Results Announced

of fabricators helping fabricators, which is the

The Annual Conference also included the

cornerstone of ISFA.

announcement of the results of its election

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 that has best supported ISFA in all activities. The 2020 winner is Moraware, a maker of software specifically designed for countertop fabricators. The company is not only a supportive partner of ISFA’s efforts to educate the industry, but also through other outlets in the surfacing/countertop realm as well as its own independent programs. In addition to offering highly regarded products, it also provides industry information in numerous areas, such as marketing, networking, technology integration and various others to serve fabricators well beyond just its product offerings. And, it has done so for many years.

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 2020 Winner is SPEEDlabel . This small ®

invention designed for countertop fabricators, by fabricators, has had a significant impact on the countertop industry. SPEEDlabel is a custom labeling solution allowing fabricators to track countertops through production. It also helps with quality control by preventing mistakes, helping both large and small shops to be more efficient and profitable. The labels have made it easier for fabricators of all surfaces to reduce chaos and improve shop organization.

The Envision Award is given to the manufacturer member that excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry. INEOS is the 2020 winner.

The company’s composites continue to drive innovation in the resin space. It has created bio-based resins that allow quartz companies to mitigate petroleum use and create more sustainable products. In addition to creating a more sustainable product, the resins also allow for flat, strong and consistent slabs.

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

for the association’s new board of directors.

Fabricator Member Directors are chosen

by association members for a term of three

years, with the option to renew for a second

consecutive three-year term. Associate Member Directors are elected by association members

for a term of two years, with the option to renew

Retaining their positions as Directors are Paul

“Max” Le Pera, of Global Surfacing Alliance in Cranbury, N.J.; Eric Tryon, founding member

of Rockheads Group of Alpharetta, Ga.; Laura Grandlienard, of ROCKin’teriors in Raleigh, N.C.; and Rodrigo Valezquez, of INDEKO in Zapopan, Mexico. Also continuing their

positions as Associate Member Representatives on the board are Jim Callaghan, of GranQuartz in Norcross, Ga., and Joe Connolly of SASSO

USA in Palatine, Ill.

for a second consecutive two-year term.

Innovative Product Showcase

Board officers are elected by members of the

As with previous years, the conference also

full board of directors.

Steve Mast of Precision Countertops in

Wilsonville, Ore., was elected by the full board to serve as ISFA President. The position of

Immediate Past President will remain open

for 2021, with Augie Chavez of GECKO Solid Surface Solutions in San Antonio, Texas,

included a Product Showcase highlighting

some of the latest and most innovative products now available on the market. However, rather

than in years past where companies presented their products or processes in person, the

participants this year each created videos that highlighted their offerings.

having served two consecutive terms as

During a session, the video provided by each

board and stepping down.

audience, and a question and answer period

president before fulfilling his service on the Joe Duszka, of Carolina Custom Surfaces in

Greensboro, N.C., will serve as Vice President; Mike Langenderfer, of The Countertop Shop in Monclova, Ohio, will serve as Treasurer; and,

rounding out the Executive Committee, Austin Maxwell, of Maxwell Countertops in Farmer

City, Ill., will continue to hold the position of Secretary.

In addition to Augie Chavez, leaving the board having fulfilled her service is Kelley Montana,

of Humbolt Countertops in Eureka, Calif. She served six years, including most recently as Secretary.

Returning to the board after having served multiple terms in the past, is Ted Sherritt of FLOFORM, based in Saskatoon,

Saskatchewan, Canada. New to the board

company was then played for the online

was allotted at the end for participants to

find out more about specific aspects of each

offering. After all of the videos were shared and questions answered, the viewers were then

asked to vote on the most innovative product and the best presentation.

The companies participating in the event included:

■■ Quote Countertops - Quote Kitchen & Bath

Visualization and Quoting Software (Best New Product Award winner)

■■ Federal Brace, Countertop Support

Brackets (Best Presentation Award winner) ■■ BB Industries, Shop Analysis Program ■■ Chemical Concepts, CounterBalance Float Frame Brackets

■■ Colonial Saw, V-Grooving and Coving with

is Kimberley Homs, of Great In Counters in

STRIEBIG Vertical Panel Saws

Directors moving forward into 2021.

Dimensions

Providence, R.I. Both of them will serve as

“We are so thankful for the great work Augie and Kelley put in on the board,” said ISFA

President Steve Mast. “They have left behind

■■ Corian, Solid Surface in Widesheet ■■ Granite Gold, In Home Services ■■ GranQuartz, Pearl Hand Grinder and Pro Series Core Bits

great legacies and we will miss them and their

■■ Park Industries, SABERjet XP 2 Table CNC

board members also bring great perspectives,

■■ Stone Services Group, Commercial

insight. However, we are confident that the new

SawJet

knowledge and enthusiasm to the association.”

Template & Install Services

ISFANews ■■ The Pinske Edge, The Pinske Edge Coving System Thanks to all of those companies who participated, and congratulations to the award winners!

2020 and Beyond Also at the annual meeting, Executive Director Nancy Busch reviewed the year in ISFA, including putting on a successful regional Industry Roundtable Event prior to the hit of the pandemic; presenting a dozen virtual shop tours from around the country via Zoom conferencing; put on a two-day virtual Compact/ Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces training program with training information and product presentations from more than half a dozen material and equipment suppliers; held a 2nd Generation Leadership Event for next-generation shop owners/managers; putting out this quarterly publication, Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, plus our annual Buyers’ Guide and five issues of our Surfacing News email newsletters; and added 75 new members. She also reiterated the continued work with the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) and American National Standards Institute to put together universal solid surface fabrication standards. Board members Paul “Max” Le Pera and Kimberly Homs will head up these initiatives going forward.

ISFA Institutes New Associate Member Sponsorship Program Beginning in 2021, ISFA has put forth a more streamlined sponsorship program for Associate Members wishing to play a larger role in the success of the organization. While associate members wishing to sponsor singular events or programs will still be something that is offered, the new four-tier sponsorship program allows for broader reach at set levels: Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. The top two levels are limited to four and eight sponsors offered on a first-come, first-served basis, respectively, while the Silver and Bronze sponsor packages are available to any ISFA Associate Member interested. The sponsorship packages will be offered through January 15, and are a great way to show your support for and be associated with the variety of educational programs put forth by the association.

Thanks to the 2021 sponsors who have signed up so far:

PLATINUM

And, of course, none of this would have been possible without the gracious help of our sponsors.

Presenting Sponsor

Other Sponsors

GOLD

ISFA Still Accepting Applications for Mike Nolan Scholarship Because of the surge in COVID-19 cases and the difficulties with college and vocational school schedules, ISFA has yet to award the 2020 Mike Nolan Scholarship. Each year, ISFA awards the 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 again because of the continued uncertainty in 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.

SILVER

ISFA Associate Members interested in participating in the new sponsorship program can contact Executive Director Nancy Bush at nancy@isfanow.org or (253) 691-0169 or Account Representative Paul Wisnefski at wisnefski@sbcglobal.net or (262) 498-4184 by the January 15 deadline.

To apply or for more information, email info@isfanow.org or visit www.isfanow.org.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 37

ISFANews ISFA Board of Directors Steve Mast President Precision Countertops 26200 S.W. 95th Ave. Ste. 303 Wilsonville, OR 97070 (503) 660-3023 Steve.m@precision countertops.com www.precisioncountertops.com Joe Duszka Vice President Carolina Custom Surfaces 100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC. 27409 (336) 215-5518 Joe@carolinacustom surfaces.com www.carolinacustom surfaces.com Mike Langenderfer Treasurer The Countertop Shop 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 (419) 868-9101 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net Austin Maxwell Secretary Maxwell Countertops 324 S. Plum St. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2848 austin@maxwellcounters. com www.maxwellcounters.com

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

Paul “Max” Le Pera Director Global Surfacing Alliance 106 Melrich Rd. Cranbury, NJ 08512 (908) 358-5252 pmlp33@gmail.com

Laura Grandlienard Director ROCKin’teriors 230 Hampton Woods Ln. Ste. 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

Ted Sherritt Director FLOFORM Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada (204) 474-2334 tsherritt@floform.com www.floform.com Kimberly Homs Director Great In Counters 100 Whipple St. Providence, RI 02908 (508) 353-35-83 kimberly@greatincounters.com www.greatincounters.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 Joe Connolly Associate Member Representative SASSO 220 N. Smith St. Ste. 414 Palatine, IL 60067 (224) 200-8004 jconnollysassousa@ gmail.com www.sassousa.com

ISFA Booster Club 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

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

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

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.

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 IN T ER N AT ION A L S U 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

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 39

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.

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

Natural Stone Countertops 1791 Sportsman Ln. Ste. D Huntsville, AL 35816 256-864-8050 www.nscountertops.com

ALASKA

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 Pl. 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

CJ Installations Inc.

3670 Concord Ave. Brentwood, CA 94513 925-695-5341

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

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

Inland Counter Tops

1198 Leiske Dr. Rialto, CA 92376 626-335-3367 www.inlandcountertop.com

Interior Commercial Installation Inc.

3670 Concord Ave. Brentwood, CA 94513 925-695-5341 www.interiorcommercial installation.com

Naresh Tammabatula 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

Bella Casa Countertops and Stone 10116 W. Arbor Place Littleton, CO 80127 303-550-8692 www.bellacasacs.com

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

Front Range Stone

White House Stone

RW Woodworks LLC

GEORGIA

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

CONNECTICUT

Creative Surface Solutions 32 Great Hill Rd. Seymour, CT 06483 203-829-3132

DELAWARE

Troy Granite Inc.

711 Interchange Blvd.

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

FLORIDA

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

Delorie Countertops & Doors Inc.

2140 N.W. 18th St. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-970-7661 www.deloriectd.com

Jackson Stoneworks 11111 S.E. 72nd Gainsville, FL 32641 352-372-6600 www.jacksonllc.com

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

Sterling Mfg.

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

1346 S. Killian Dr. Lake Park, FL 33403 561-828-0878 www.whitehousestone.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

E&D Granite City, Inc.

189 Hurricane Shoals Rd. N.W. Ste. B Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-682-4411 www.edgranitecity.com

Heft Enterprises

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

Premier Surfaces

845 McFarland Pkwy.

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

Stone Center

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

HAWAII

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

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

ILLINOIS

INDIANA

1003 E Cemetery Ave. Chenoa, IL 61726 815-867-2196 www.323designteam.com

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

323 Design Team

Custom Marble Inc.*** PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net

The Granite & Marble Depot, Inc.

850 Ridgeway Ave. Ste. B Aurora, IL 60506 630-966-9666 www.mygranite.com

Maxwell Counters Inc.

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

MGM Stone Fabrication Inc. 1380 Landmeier Rd. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 847-290-9038 www.mgmstonefabrication.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

Solid Surface Creations Inc.

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

Stalwart Systems

7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-1193 www.stalwartsystemsusa.com

Stonecrafters

430 W. Wegner Rd. Lakemoor, IL 60051 815-363-8730 www.stonecrafters.com

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

A. I. A. Countertops LLC

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

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

Hard Rock Stone Works

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

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

Innovative Surface Works

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

505 South St. StoneHouse Quartz & Granite Easton, MD 21601 3901 100th St. 410-819-0770 Urbandale, IA 50322 www.solidtops.com 515-512-5188 www.stonehousegranite.com MASSACHUSETTS

VT Industries

Discover Marble & Granite

KENTUCKY

Jack’s Custom Woodworking/JCW Countertops

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

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/

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

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

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

MAINE

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

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

Sterling Surfaces

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

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

Bangor Wholesale Laminates MICHIGAN Custom Components Corp.

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

1111 E. Main St. Ionia, MI 48846 616-523-1111 www.cccsolution.com

23206 Commerce Dr. Farmington, MI 48335 734-261-3010 www.ISWrocksnow.com

MKD

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

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

NEBRASKA

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

Lycos, Inc.

2445 Deer Park Blvd.

Omaha, NE 68105 402-201-2283 www.lycosfinish.com

Stone Concepts, Inc.

10802 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 865-523-0967 www.stoneconceptsomaha.com

NEVADA

OGB Architectural Millwork

Carolina Custom Surfaces***

The Countertop Shop LTD***

6812 Academy Pkwy. East N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87109 505-300-4500 www.rabyco.com

Carolina Stoneworx LLC

Top Advantage Surfaces Inc.

Evans & Paul

Coastal Countertops & Tile

Top Designs Inc.

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

The Raby Companies, Inc.

NEW YORK

140 DuPont St. Plainview, NY 11803 516-576-0800 www.evansandpaul.com

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

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

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

Granite and Marble Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund Works Inc.

Majestic Kitchen & Bath

NEW HAMPSHIRE

104 Jeffrey Way Youngsville, NC 27596 919-376-5941 www.gomajestic.com

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

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

Merrimack Stone & Cabinets

Marker Systems Inc.

Metro Woodcrafters of NC, Inc.

Modern Home Distributing

Onslow Stoneworks

7 Webb Dr. Merrimack, NH 03054 603-883-6240

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 Iorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.marvicnj.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.americancountertops online.com

Jaynes Structures

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

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

Solid Surfaces NY 1 Townline Circle Rochester, NY 14623 585-292-5340 www.nysurfaces.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

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

PO Box 669488 Charlotte, NC 28266-9488 704-394-9622 www.metrowoodcrafter.com 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 419-636-4555 www.lesmith.com

Laminate Shop, Inc. PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536

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 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

Pacific NW Marble and Granite 2840 Industrial Ave. Hubbard, OR 97032 503-981-3599 www.pacificnwgranite.com

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

Stone Works Int’l, Inc.

590 Seneca Rd. Eugene, OR 97402 541-729-2937 www.stoneworksintl.com

PENNSYLVANIA

ASST

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

Advanced Surfaces Inc.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Counterscapes, Inc.

Atlantic Custom Granite & Marble

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

Countertop Solutions LLC

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

Kramer’s Fabrications Inc. PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com

Pence Countertops Inc.

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

Great In Counters

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

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

Eframe Asrat

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

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

Accent Countertops

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

Countertop Source

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

4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 210-227-3100 www.geckosss.com

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

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

Rock Tops

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

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

Valley View Granite

905 N. 2000 W. Tremont, UT 84337 435-452-1570 www.valleyviewgranite.com

Westwood Carpet and Tile 575 N. 3050 East St. George, UT 84790 435-313-9414

VERMONT

Vermont Solid Surface

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

W.R. Watson Inc.

5996 Dannon Way West Jordan, UT 84081 801-282-3322 www.bedrockquartz.com

Gunckel Architectural Stoneworks, LLC

301 Pannell Dr. Millington, TN 38053 910-596-3610

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

Bedrock Quartz

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

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

J&M Cabinetry and Construction

RHODE ISLAND

Durcon

Giovanni’s Granite and Marble

Pittsburgh Troy Granite

297 Dominic Pace Industrial Pkwy.

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

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

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

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.

Uppercut Granite

UTAH

Dirk Foster

Gecko Solid Surface Solutions***

IntelliStone, LLC

Rynone Mfg. Corp

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

301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis, TN 38106 901-602-7115 www.countertopsofmemphis.com

124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609 www.pencecountertops.com 1060 484 Lowries Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-446-1060 www.troygranite.com

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

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

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

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

Surface Link Corp.

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

WASHINGTON

Creative Countertops

22285 Stottlemeyer Rd. N.E. Poulsbo, WA 98370 360-598-3106 www.creativecounters.com

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

Granite Gallery LLC

711 Tumwater Blvd. S.W. Tumwater, WA 98501 360-753-3522 www.granitegallery.net Italstone Marble & Granite 2301 Ahtanum Rd. Yakima, WA 98903 509-469-8678 www.italstone-us.com King County Library System 960 Newport Way N.W. Issaqua, WA 98027 425-369-3300 www.kcls.org Lakewood Countertops 10513 Lakeview Ave. S.W. Lakewood, WA 98498 253-588-2169 www.lakewoodcountertops.com Solid Surface Solutions 1350 Thornton Ave. S.W. #102 Pacific, WA 98047 253-863-9282 www.washingtonsolid surface.com surfaceLAB 817 6th St. Kirkland, WA 98033 206-200-6228 www.surfacelab.us Topline Counters, LLC 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

Spectrum Surfaces, Inc. 812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 920-337-6575 www. spectrumsurfacesinc.com

AFRICA

AMCO-CDA

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

CANADA

Counter Culture Inc.

30 Fashion Roseway Unit 214 Toronto, ON M2N6B4 Canada 647-544-2735

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

Elite Stone

11070 Midway Blvd. Unit #7 Mississauga, ON L5T 1T4 Canada 905-670-9800 www.elitestone.ca

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

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

FloForm Countertops

MEXICO

Paragon Surfacing LTD

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

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

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

Surfacing Solutions Inc. 170 Bovaird Dr. W. Unit #3 Brampton, ON L6T4Z4 Canada 905-874-1814 www.surfacingsolutions.ca

CHINA

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

FRANCE

CREA Diffusion

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

INDIA

Western Fabrications

1805, 18th Floor, Gundecha Premier, Thakur Village Borivali East Mumbai Maharashtra 400066 India 91-9136229909 www.infinihybrid.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 42642 Hamriyah Free Zone Sharjah U.A.E +971 6 526 2202 www.alubondsolidsurface.com

Bond Interiors

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

UNITED KINGDOM 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

All ISFA Fabricator Members are listed in the Fabricator Directory of every issue of

ITALY

Countertops & Architectural

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

Visit www.ISFAnow.org for

Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)

Surfaces. more information or to sign up for membership.

Product News

Corian Design Launches High-performance Porcelain Surfacing Material Corian Design introduced Corian Endura, a high-performance porcelain made from natural minerals designed for ultimate durability. Suitable for residential and commercial projects, Corian Endura is highly customizable and can be used for vertical and horizontal solutions, including kitchen countertops, vanities and interiors and exteriors. Because of its solid structure, Corian Endura offers resistance to extreme heat, abrasions, scratches and stains, allowing customers the opportunity to utilize the surface to its full potential. The product is nonporous, easy to clean, Greenguard Gold Certified, and does not promote the growth of mold, bacteria and mildew, to meet or exceed demands of modern kitchens and high traffic spaces. Made of 100 percent natural minerals, the product is engineered using compression and high temperatures, it is highly resistant to ultraviolet light, and it doesn’t fade so is suitable for outdoor applications. Corian Endura is offered in four product families, including a collection of tones in monochromatic, marble, metal and cement. ®

GranQuartz Offers Pros Series UCS Mesh Core Bit The Pro Series UCS Mesh core bit is a clean and fast cutting core bit for porcelain and ultra compact surfacing materials.

It is produced with a unique diamond matrix and bond specific to hard materials like porcelain, Dekton, Lapitec, etc. The mesh segment is specifically designed for the material, decreasing chipping and blowout, and also outperforms continuous rim core bits in speed of cut.

Cosentino Expands Colors for Dekton Slim

HanStone Quartz Presents Unearthed Collection

Cosentino expanded the color offering for Dekton Slim, the large format surface with an ultra-thin 4mm thickness, which includes four hues from the Dekton 2020 Collection and the Natural Collection. The new colors include Helena, Laurent and Rem from the 2020 Collection, and Aura15, a luminary from the Natural Collection.

These latest additions bring the Dekton Slim offering to a total of 20 contemporary colors, further expanding the potential applications for the material. Created from a sophisticated blend of raw materials from glass, quartz and porcelain, Dekton has a high resistance to UV rays, scratches, stains and thermal shock. It can be quickly cleaned with a damp cloth and soap, and no sealing is required. Its large format (3,200mm by 1,440mm) covers sizable surfaces, reducing the number of joints needed.

Hyundai L&C USA offers its HanStone Quartz Unearthed Collection. Made up of subtle shades from nature’s palette, the collection offers an exploration of warmth in three hues: Storm, Terra and Coast. The colors in the Unearthed Collection feature HanStone’s exclusive River Washed finish for a unique tactile experience. As with all HanStone Quartz, the new collection is nonporous, as well as resistant to heat, stains and scratches.

The designs are the suitable for both residential and commercial applications, with consistency of color, texture and quality along with solid durability to handle the challenges of everyday life.

Parson Adhesives Adds Substrate Bonder The new Chromalok Parbond 500 Substrate Bonder is now available from Parson Adhesives. Parbond 500 Substrate Bonder is a strong and fast two-part epoxy designed to bond solid surface, quartz, natural stone, ceramics and materials such as plywood, MDF, etc. The adhesive reduces assembly time by curing in as little as 14 minutes. It is packaged in a 1:1 ratio 200ml cartridge and can be used in numerous applications, including but not limited to shower surrounds, backsplash and wall paneling. Free samples of the new Parbond 500 are available from the company.

LOTTE Introduces Evermoin Surfaces Ultra-hygienic Evermoin® surfaces from Staron® are now available to U.S. customers.

Manufactured to suppress the growth of microbes, including common bacteria, Evermoin surfaces are specifically designed for environments requiring exceptionally clean conditions such as healthcare facilities, retail establishments and high-traffic office environments. The Evermoin line has received certification from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (US FDA 21 CFR 177.1010) and the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). Nontoxic Evermoin surfaces can be installed in most any interior space. Two contemporary, neutral colors are currently available — Limpio and Ultra Bright — and can be cleansed simply with commonly International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 45

Product News available bleach solutions. Testing of the Evermoin material demonstrated a proliferation inhibition rate of 99.9 percent or higher. Specifically, the Evermoin surface inhibits the number of surviving bacteria to fewer than 1,000 (1/1,000) after test specimens go through antibacterial treatment in a laboratory environment where the number of bacteria can multiply to 1 million.

designs include: Bodega, Oberlin, Galera, Karekare, Trail Ridge, Desert View, Hanola Grey, Hamoa, Svalbard, Tivoli Grey, Clouds Rest, Traiano, Capogrossi, River Glen, Madeira Beach and Logan Pass.

and dense surfacing material. It is suitable for applications with light or white substrates, and its uses include bonding, laminating, miters, installation of pieces and repairs.

IceStone Adds Honed Finish Wilsonart Launches New Quartz Colors The Wilsonart® Quartz Collection celebrates nature-inspired colors and contours, with the launch of a variety of new colors. The new

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

InnoChem Provides K Bond VIVID Knife Grade Adhesive K-Bond VIVID by InnoChem is a premium quality, low color Vinyl Ester stone adhesive. K-Bond VIVID is a corrosion-resistant, ultra-fast curing, high adhesion adhesive. It is made for use with natural stone, quartz, ceramics, porcelains

IceStone, a Cradle to Cradle Silver certified company with surfaces made using recycled glass and no resins or chemical binders, is now available by special order in a honed finish. All 17 colors typically presented in a gloss finish are available in the new finish. All IceStone countertops require no treatment or sealing, but are durable and resistant to heat, stain and

Product News UV damage. For projects that aspire to LEED designation, 100 percent of the cost of IceStone surfaces is eligible for LEED credits, and that goes up to 200 percent if the job is within 100 miles of the company’s Brooklyn, N.Y., factory.

GGI Distributes MicroGold Dual-Action Disinfectant & Antimicrobial Distributed by Granite Gold Inc. (GGI) and powered by MonoFoil, MicroGold® Dual-Action Disinfectant & Antimicrobial kills SARS-CoV-2 associated with COVID-19, according to independent lab testing reviewed by the U.S. EPA (EPA Reg. No. 90856-4-88653). The product met all EPA criteria following the mid-June conclusion of independent analysis at Microbac Laboratories Inc. Testing conducted on a live strain of

SARS-CoV-2 found it killed the virus in three minutes. MicroGold Dual-Action Disinfectant & Antimicrobial was brought to the marketplace

by GGI to help partners experiencing depleted stocks and empty store shelves. Initially named MonoFoil D®, GGI recently rebranded the

product under the new MicroGold brand, which when used as directed kills 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria, including SARS-CoV-2 associated with COVID-19, human rotavirus, pseudomonas aeruginosa, salmonella enterica and staphylococcus aureus. Available in 16- and 24-oz. spray bottles, and a 128-oz. refill, the solution is nonabrasive, has no hazy residue or phosphates, and is alcohol- and bleach-free.

Federal Brace Adds Copper Island Countertop Federal Brace has added copper to its Working Metal Surfaces line. Customers can now quickly achieve the high-end chef’s kitchen look with this beautiful high-quality prep surface in the

standard island size of 50 by 26 by 1.5 in.

The Copper Island Countertops are designed in a standard size or can be ordered in custom sizes to match requirements. Available finishes include brushed, matte or mill, and the counter is uncoated to allow for the full health benefit of the copper material. Copper Kitchen Countertops require regular cleaning to prevent patina over time.

Caesarstone Launches Calacatta Maximus Caesarstone introduced Calacatta Maximus to its Supernatural Collection of quartz surfacing,

ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 47

Product News

taking the classic style of marble to the maximum. It is designed to turn contemporary surfaces into strikingly graphic works of art with oversized veining moving across the intricate terrain of the slab. Adding contrast to its pure white background, soft greige veins are intensified by fine copper-gold outlines. Slabs are ¾ in. (2cm) thick and the standard 120-in. by 56 ½-in. (440 mm) size. It is available in two finish options: Polished (gloss) and Natural finish, a subtle texture without the shine. It is nonporous, durable, flexible, and scratch- and stain-resistant, as well as being resistant to mold and mildew.

Cambria, Gensler Introduce Coordinates Collection Cambria, along with integrated architecture, design, planning and consulting firm Gensler launched the Coordinates Collection. The collection consists of 14 high-performance quartz designs with textures that range from smooth and rugged concrete looks to terrazzoinspired patterns and designs with organic veining. All designs are available in Cambria’s Matte finish, which features a smooth, silky touch and no reflectivity, as well as in Cambria’s high-gloss finish. The Coordinates Collection is available in a variety of edge profiles in 1cm, 2cm and 3cm thicknesses and jumbo slabs (132 by 65.5-in.) All designs are also available as wall and floor tiles. The material is scratch- and stain-resistant, maintenance-free requiring no sealing or reconditioning and is suitable for both commercial and residential applications.

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

Weha Offers Rock Dog Single-speed Router The Weha Rock Dog Router is a 9,000-rpm singlespeed router that can profile granite, marble, quartz, quartzite or any other stone. Made with a unibody aircraft aluminum housing, the Rock Dog is a smooth profile router with a 2.4-hp 220 singlephase motor. It can profile up to 6cm and comes with an aquaplaning base for easy movement across the surface. The 22mm by 10mm thread spindle accommodates practically all router bits on the market. It comes with a 20-ft.-long, heavy 12-gauge AWF with ground power cord, and a water connection for easy setup.

as Formica® Solid Surfacing, the 38-pattern collection includes eight new modern, minimalist designs in subtle patterns and monochromatic tones for broad commercial and residential use. Seamless, nonporous, durable, repairable, and water- and fireresistant, Everform can be used for horizontal or vertical applications, and can be used with integral sinks. Inspired by trends such as terrazzo, microscale and patterns in subtle, washed tones, the new Terrazzo Matrix Series includes: Dalmata Terrazzo Matrix, Argento Terrazzo Matrix (pictured) and Grafite Terrazzo Matrix. Three new colors have been added to the optical solid Luna series: Luna Brite White, Luna Pewter and Luna Steel. Other new designs include Tumbled Glass and Gamma Gray.

Sustonable Changes Stone Composite Surfaces Sustonable has evolved traditional composite stone surfaces into a more ecological and recyclable alternative for architectural and decor projects. A truly sustainable and durable composite stone surface, it is made of recycled plastic and quartz. For every square meter of surface created, Sustonable recycles 100 PET plastic bottles. It is 100 percent circular and sustainable and eliminates 80 percent of waste by using an efficient continuous production process.

Formica Rebrands, Adds to Everform Solid Surface Collection Formica Corporation Launched Everform Solid Surface, a curated collection of acrylic solid surfacing designs. Previously known ™

Antolini Presents New Texture Antolini’s Flexwave finish on the exclusive stone Bianco Lasa “Fantastico” introduces a new language to the rather uniform appearance and translucent white background of this marble. The intense undulating movement of the Flexwave finish permeated over the surface emphasizes the specific tactile properties of this stone: brilliance, color range and transparency.

Bianco Lasa “Fantastico” paired with Antolini’s new Flexwave texture brings the worlds of architecture and fashion closer together through consistent three-dimensionality, making this mixture suitable for numerous uses.

Classifieds FOR SALE Used 2007 Techno LC Series 4896 3-axis CNC Router, 48 x 96 x 5 (X,Y,Z) ■■ Gantry Table with 5 HP HSD Auto Tool Changer Spindle.

■■ Four Tool Holders, Four Tool Stations, 13 collets of different sizes.

■■ Computer Console, CPU, Monitor, Windows-based G code interface.

■■ Vacuum Table.

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.

Lightly used, less than four hours per week over lifetime of machine.

Email us today at editor@isfanow.org.

Contact Fletcher Smith of Counterscapes, Inc. at (903) 581-5676

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

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BB Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

CountertopResource.com . . . . . . . 47

Kohler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Beckart Environmental, Inc.. . . . . . 31

Daltile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

LPI Laser Products Industries . . . . 17

Betterly Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Gemstone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

MSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chemcore Industries. . . . . . . . . 31, 47

Hyundai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Natural Stone Institute . . . . . . . . . . 46

Chromalok. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Integra Adhesives. . . . . . . Back Cover

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

Corian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

ISFA Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Regent Stone Products . . . . . . . . . 11

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

Karran USA. . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Water Treatment Solutions. . . . . . . 28

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 13 / Issue 4 • 49

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

Changing Strategies for the Changing Times This year, ISFA’s Annual Conference was like

ISFA’s job is to create a professional platform

by a pool in Mexico, we instead had to create

But the members have a more important job

has made one thing certain: We all have had to

sides of the triangle have to be equal, and I

no other. When we’d usually be talking shop

to facilitate and guide these conversations.

a collaborative environment online. COVID-19

… participate. It is well worth the effort. All

get creative with problem solving.

am asking all members to jump in and be part

While no one would ever choose to live

through a pandemic, there have been some silver linings. In our own shop, we have implemented positive changes that will

continue to serve us long after the pandemic has passed. Another specific silver lining

COVID-19 brought was our annual meeting

had a large attendance. Because no one had to travel and commit more time to meeting

up miles from home, we had more attendees, which always makes for more enriching conversation.

of these conversations. There are three easy ways to get more involved: Join a Committee Committees can be up to a one-year

commitment and consist of people from throughout the industry and across the

country. Typically you’ll meet online about

once a month with other industry professionals to take actions or report on a topic. These range from compact surface fabrication,

annual meeting planning, marketing and social media, or membership. This is a minimal time

It was surprising to me how successful

commitment, and it will be exciting to be

seeing each other face to face is typically

direction of our industry.

our annual meeting was given the fact that

part of the discovery and help to guide the

ideal. However, whether we are in person

Attend a Virtual Roundtable

or online, what we all really need is the

opportunity to collaborate and learn from our fellow fabricators, material manufacturers

and equipment suppliers. In my 25 years of

being in this business, the best things seem to surface when all three of these groups brainstorm together.

A perfect example of this synergy was the

recent two-day seminar facilitated by ISFA on

the fabrication of compact surfaces, porcelain and sintered stone. Fabricating compact

surfaces comes with a set of challenges that we have to collectively solve. ISFA industry

partners Park Industries and LPI sponsored the event and provided helpful tips and

information, and fabricators gave feedback and best practices.

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

always will be a key takeaway that you can

apply to your business immediately. Seeing other ways fellow fabricators are solving

common industry problems is probably one

of the best 45 minutes you can spend. If you

have never attended one, be sure not to miss our upcoming tour that ASST is hosting on

Wednesday, January 6. The company performs custom and highly specialized commercial

work throughout the country. They hosted an

in-person shop tour last year, and we sent our

production manager to learn about what ASST was doing. He said its level of sophistication and the things the company was able to

fabricate were mind blowing. Being from Portland, it’s been historically difficult to

attend all the tours, but now that they are

virtual, there’s no excuse to not hop on and

participate. Sign up is easy and free. Just go

to the ISFA website at www.ISFAnow.org and

under the “Events” dropdown you will see the “Shop Tours” tab.

Although I have just beun my tenure as

We have had some wonderful feedback on

president, I will continue to drive home this

the chance to attend one, you know that

don’t have time or much to share, but I can

back to your businesses and implement

back more than you give. Not only will you

covered everything from new fabrication

you will enjoy the journey much more with the

our roundtable forums. If you have ever had

one goal: participation. You may think you

you always learn something new to take

wholeheartedly promise you that you will get

for improvement. Dynamic speakers have

become better at running your business, but

techniques or ways to increase profitability to

friends you’ve made along the way.

better utilizing social media; and even OSHA

consultants review safety improvements. This is also a great space to ask questions of our

knowledgeable partners in the materials and equipment segments of the industry.

Attend and/or Host a Virtual Shop Tour The time you invest in attending a shop tour

will be worth every minute. There will almost

Steve Mast, ISFA President steve.m@precisioncountertops.com

ISFA Member since 1998

ISFA Member since 1998