TRAINING MANUAL
STONE-MART SUPERIOR FLOORING & HARDSCAPE SOLUTIONS
TRAVERTINE | MARBLE | PORCELAIN | TILES | PAVERS | MOSAICS | POOL COPING | WATERLINE
WHAT IS
TRAVERTINE?
Travertine is a sedimentary rock, formed when limestone is altered by deposits from hot springs. Geothermal pressure cause gases to trap other minerals giving the stone its distinct porous look and unique color ranges. Our travertine is mined from multiple quarries throughout Turkey.
WHAT IS A TRAVERTINE QUARRY? A quarry is the site from which the travertine Blocks are excavated from the ground. Travertine is harvested and cut into block form and then shipped to our factories where they are fabricated into slabs, tiles, pavers, pool coping, and mosaics.
“From Mother Earth’s Natural Hot Springs To Your Pool & Spa”
WHY TRAVERTINE? • BEAUTY - Distinct texture and beautiful color variations courtesy of Mother Nature, there is a place for travertine in any home. Travertine and marbles will vary in color due to iron compounds and other impurities that occur naturally during formation. Because of these color variations, no two travertine tiles or pavers are exactly alike, making the travertine that will be in your home, one of a kind. • VERSATILITY - Travertine is available in a range of natural colors, sizes, and surface finishes ideal for indoor and outdoor areas. The surface of travertine is cool under your feet due to a lack of metal content in the stone. Travertine is naturally slip resistant and stronger than man made alternatives. • DURABILITY - Travertine will withstand weathering and erosion without deterioration. Travertine is known to strengthen and improve with age. The colors of travertine will not fade over time with minimal maintenance required. • VALUE - The affordable elegance of travertine interior and exterior applications add significant value to your home along with a re-sale value that does not diminish like man made tile options. Travertine is a secure investment to homeowners preparing to sell their homes in the future. Homeowners planning to stay in their homes for a long period of time, the timeless beauty of travertine provides endless possibilities for changes in future decor of your home.
There are many myths about certain types of flooring materials. Some are believed to be easily damaged, others to be difficult to maintain or keep clean, still others to be limited in their variety or style. Natural stone flooring and hardscapes have remained impervious to these unfounded concerns and continue to be heralded by industry professionals and homeowners alike as an ideal surface covering for residential or commercial projects.
4 MYTHS ABOUT NATURAL STONE
01
NATURAL STONE STAINS EASILY
Staining is a concern for many homeowners considering natural stone. A common misconception is that products like coffee or wine will stain natural stone easily and beyond repair. While staining can occur, natural stone is not any more susceptible to staining than man made alternatives. Natural Stone should be sealed after installation with a penetrating sealer which provides a barrier of protection throughout the entire stone unlike common topical sealers that only protect the surface area.
02
NATURAL STONE IS EXPENSIVE
Natural stone is often found in high-end projects but that does not mean it is out of reach for more modest budgets. The cost of natural stone depends on a variety of factors, including availability, demand and quality. Travertine is similar in price range as many man made materials.
03
NATURAL STONE IS DELICATE AND REQUIRES TOO MUCH MAINTENANCE
Stones such as marble or limestone can be susceptible to etching or scratching. However this, can be prevented by taking simple preventative measures. Always use a cutting board when preparing food on natural stone countertops. Consider using coasters and trivets under glasses and hot pans. Clean up spills as quickly as possible. Do not use harsh cleaning products on natural stone choose a gentle cleanser and a soft cloth.
04
NATURAL STONE GOES OUT OF STYLE
While particular colors and finishes may come in and out of fashion natural stone is a timeless classic material. Natural stone is beautiful, durable and with no two stones being exactly the same, offers a uniqueness that other products simply cannot provide. Natural Stone offers a sense of history, nature, and luxury to a any space in your home.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES CONSUMER PREFERENCES HOME DESIGN & REMODELING TRENDS
The popularity of Natural Stone interior and exterior applications remains at an all time high throughout the construction industry. The uniqueness, versatility, and ease of maintenance has made Natural Stone the ideal choice for Architects, Design Professionals, and Premier Builders throughout the world. Stone-Mart’s diverse product lines offer a variety of choices for current home design and remodeling trends, including large bathrooms, lavish kitchens, open floor plans, and outdoor living areas.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT GRADES OF TRAVERTINE? When considering purchasing travertine it is important to know that there are multiple grades or Levels and what those grades mean in determining the overall quality of the stone.
PREMIUM SELECT (1ST GRADE) The highest quality selections quarried then hand selected through rigorous inspection protocols post fabrication. Premium Select will have minimal pitting, consistent color range, and no visible flaws.
PREMIUM (2ND GRADE) Excellent overall quality but will have more pitting and color variation than the premium select.
STANDARD (COMMERCIAL GRADE) The Lowest grade and will have visible flaws, larger more pronounced pitting, and often an inconsistent color range.
“A CUT ABOVE THE REST” NATURAL STONE •Cut from Solid Stone Blocks •Dimensional Tiles 12 x 12, 24 x 24 and Larger •Large, Solid Length Slabs Up to 4’ x 8’ •Suitable for Both Wall and Floor Applications
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CROSS CUT AND VEIN CUT TRAVERTINE?
cross-cut Most of the travertine options in today’s marketplace are Cross-Cut. This refers to the cutting of the travertine blocks along the bedding after being harvested from the quarry.
vein-cut Travertine is also available in Vein-Cut. In order to produce vein cut travertine, the travertine blocks are rotated and the cuts take place against the bedding.
TRAVERTINE TILE
0.5”
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRAVERTINE TILES AND TRAVERTINE PAVERS?
1.25”
TRAVERTINE PAVER
Travertine tiles range from 3/8” to 5/8” in thickness with 1/2” being the most common. Travertine pavers are 1 ¼” thick (3cm) and in certain collections Stone-Mart has paver options 2” thick (5cm). With travertine tile installation traditional tile setting materials are used. However travertine pavers can be dry-set on top of sand and compacted base as well as mortar-set over concrete if desired.
Travertine tiles can be utilized in both indoor and outdoor areas.The versatility of travertine affords limitless possibilities for any design or project.
Tumbled travertine pavers are perfect for pool decks and outdoor Living areas. They have eased edges and the permeable surface of the travertine is naturally slip-resistant.
THE “FINISH” IS WHERE YOU START When deciding what type of natural stone is right for your home, first start with the type of finish. If you are looking for a rustic or old world appeal, tumbled or chiseled may be the right choice for you. Whereas for modern or contemporary design options, honed & filled, polished or brushed tiles are all Ideal options.
FINISHES
Brushed - Steel brushes are used to add Chiseled - Edges of stone are machined, Filled - Pitting on the stone’s surface coarse texture to the stone’s surface. creating a worn-aged appearance. are filled, creating an even surface.
*Stone-Mart Exclusive
Honed - Ground to a smooth finish Leather - Combining a series of patent revealing the underlying characteristics pending finishing techniques with of the stone. traditional sandblasting produces maximum grip surface without damaging or dimenishing the natural beauty of the stone.
Split-Face - A rough irregular finish, cut to expose the interior bedding of the stone.
Polished - A non-chemical finish that intensifies the natural color and patterns of the stone creating a smooth gloss finish.
Tumbled - Stone is tumbled in drums to ease the edges and a weathered finish.
HOW DOES THE TUMBLING PROCESS WORK? The most common tumbling method is to place the tiles into large drums along with rocks, water and sand. The tiles or pavers are tumbled over and over while the sand, rocks and water eases the edges and softens the finish, bringing to fruition the old world beauty of tumbled stone.
WHAT DOES hONED MEAN? Honing creates a smooth, warm finish, through a multi-stage standing process that removes any ridges or bumps in the stone’s surface. The grinding process begins with coarse polishing pads then moving to finer polishing pads as the stone becomes more level. The result brings to the forefront the beautiful color tones with the signature matte sheen look, only seen in Honed travertine.
WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR TRAVERTINE PAVER SIZE IN THE US? Natural stone pavers are available in a multitude of sizes such as 6x12, 12x12, 12x24, 16x16, 16x24 and 24x24. The most popular choice still remains travertine’s signature french pattern pavers. The french pattern also known as the Ashlar and Versaille patterns consists of four sizes (8x8, 8x16, 16x16, and 16x24) that showcase the natural beauty and full color range of the travertine pavers creating a one of a kind signature look for every build. All of Stone-Mart’s exclusive natural stone collections are available in french pattern pavers.
WHAT IS A FRENCH PATTERN SET?
A French Pattern Set covers 16 sqft and consists of the following pieces: •8x8
4 pcs
•8x16
2 pcs
•16x16
4 pcs
•16x24
2 pcs
“Not just for under your feet” Natural stone flooring and counter-tops have always been staples in the design and construction industry, but there are so many other applications where natural stone can enhance any project design with options for any budget.
• MOSAICS - Mesh mounted travertine and marble mosaics are available in a multitude of sizes (1x1, 1x2, 2x4, Pattern) and finishes (tumbled, honed, polished, split face) offering countless options to incorporate into any project. This versatility provides ideal surface solutions for accents, back splash’s, borders, wall coverings, pool waterline, and more. • LEDGESTONE PANELS - Available in dimensional and split face, 6”x24” ledgestone panels are an innovative wall covering that offers a seamless three-dimensional look, creating depth while highlighting the movement of the unique color tones that only natural stone can offer.
WATERLINE TILES GLASS NATURAL STONE PORCELAIN
Enhance the elegant beauty of your indoor/outdoor project with an abundance of glass, porcelain or natural stone waterline tile options. Whether you prefer a stunning pop of color or a natural organic earthy feel, waterline tiles come in a wide range of sizes and colors that will help you discover a tile that’s a reflection of your own personal style. Make your project a one of a kind design making the waterline the main focal point.
WHAT IS MARBLE?
The word “marble” derives from the ancient greek word (mármaron), meaning “crystalline rock or shining stone”.
Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The resulting marble rock is composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals.
Marble is a quarried rock resulting from metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, most commonly limestone or dolomite rock.
Construction marble is a stone which is composed of calcite, dolomite or serpentine which is capable of taking a polish. In the dimension stone trade, the term “marble” is used for any quarried crystalline calcitic rock fabricated and finished into tile and hardscape coverings.
“From Mother Earth’s Natural Hot Springs To Your Bathroom”
Why MARBLE? • TIMELESS BEAUTY- Marble flooring and hardscapes natural elegance, inherent warmth, unique color variations, and signature veining adds a classic element of luxury to any remodel or new construction project, transcending the ever changing design trends. • VERSATILITY - Marble is versatile. It can be incorporated in a diverse array of designs from rustic, old-world charm to modern streamlined designs. It’s unique naturally random appearance, engineering characteristics, and ease of maintenance has made marble a high demand choice for flooring, wall claddings, and countertops. Select quality marbles are well suited for wet area application, which extends the versatility of this material to include bathrooms, showers, and pool decks and outdoor living areas. • DURABILITY - The exceptional hardness and moisture resistance inherent to marble makes for a highly sustainable flooring or hardscape option. Marble interior and exterior applications are used throughout the construction industry in residential and commercial pavers. • EASE OF MAINTENANCE - Cleaning and routine maintenance of properly installed and sealed marble floors consists of mopping with hot water and leaving to dry. A propriety cleaning fluid can be added to the water, although this must be mild, non-caustic and pH neutral product. There are countless brands available, but if in doubt only go for the ones that are clearly marked “suitable for marble floors”. • ALLERGEN-FREE – Unlike carpeting, wood, vinyl and other man made materials which capture and holds dust, mold, pet hair and pollen particles, marble flooring is extremely hypoallergenic. In addition, marble flooring resists mold and mildew as well as other forms of bacterial growth. In homes with chronic allergy sufferers and households with pets, marble flooring is an ideal flooring option. • VALUE – The affordable elegance, durability, and ability to adapt into any current and future décor has made marble unrivaled in resale value throughout the real estate industry.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT GRADES OF MARBLE? Because marble is a natural stone, all the veins, lines and flaws are the characteristics responsible for its beauty and distinctive elegance. The quality of the marble is a key factor in determining the proper use for flooring and hardscape applications.
GRADE A Marble in this classification displays very few geological flaws. Colors are more subtle and veining is more subdued and less dramatic or sharp in appearance.
GRADE B This classification of marble contains a few flaws as in grade A but may also display some pitting. There may be dry veins which means a separation between naturally occurring materials and some filling of minor imperfections may be required to improve appearance and soundness of the material.
GRADE C This classification of marble contains excessive lines of separation, voids and flaws that may cause increased breakage as well as increased vulnerability to staining during and after installation.
GRADE D This group contains the most natural faults and impurities. This marble grade will have noticeable voids and exposed vein lines and is not recommended for tile use in wet areas or exterior application.
PORCELAIN WHY PORCELAIN? Porcelain tile prized for its durability is frequently specified as a high-performance surfacing. Porcelain tile is made using the dust pressed method from porcelain clays which result in a tile that is dense, impervious and fine grained with a more precise formed face. Porcelain tiles have a much lower water absorption rate (less than 0.5%) than non-porcelain tiles making them frost resistant or frost-proof. Glazed porcelain tiles are much harder and more wear and damage resistant than non-porcelain ceramic tiles, making them suitable for any application from the heaviest residential or light commercial traffic. Full body porcelain tiles carry the color and pattern through the entire thickness of the tile making them virtually impervious to wear and are suitable for the highest residential, commercial and industrial applications. Porcelain tiles are available in matte, unglazed or a high polished finish. Porcelain Pavers have the same benefits as porcelain tile (frost-resistant, durable, and easy to clean). However porcelain pavers are manufactured with a (3/4”) thickness, increasing the structural strength to withstand the heavy Load parameters required for an exterior application in addition to a anti-skid surface, creating an ideal hardscape option for any outdoor space.
PORCELAIN TILE
1/4” to 1/2”
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PORCELAIN TILES AND PORCELAIN PAVERS?
3/4”
PORCELAIN PAVER
Porcelain tiles range from 1/4” to 1/2” in thickness and are available in a multitude of finishes for interior applications porcelain pavers are manufactured to 3/4” thickness increasaing the strength and durability. Porcelain pavers have a anti-slip surface finish making them ideal for pool decking and outdoor living areas.
PORCELAIN TECHNOLOGY Advancements in manufacturing machinery, digital imaging, and inkjet printing technology are greatest factors impacting the evolution of porcelain flooring and hardscape designs. The porcelain tile manufacturing process has evolved dramatically in recent years with the advances in high tech machinery allowing for the production of high-quality materials at outstanding levels of efficiency. The reliability of these advanced pressing and firing technologies has enabled the steady increase in tile size and finishes available in today’s marketplace. The advances in digital imaging and graphic design technology have revolutionized the porcelain tile industry, with the ability to scan virtually any image and reproduce that image with precision accuracy on to the tile. Innovations in digital inkjet printing capabilities producing revolutionary advancements in color, patterns and texture have produced the most significant impact on the porcelain tile industry. State-of-the-art machinery and technology combined with high definition visuals is allowing manufacturers to discover new mediums and textures to apply to porcelain surfaces, making it possible to efficiently produce tile that meets the aesthetic demands of its customers while further differentiating product lines. With new high tech manufacturing combined with a vast array of digital Imagery and printing techniques, manufacturers continue to explore options that will differentiate their product lines in a competitive marketplace. Collectively all of these advances in technology have reduced the time involved from product development to product launch while increasing quality, enhancing aesthetics, and lowering production costs. Porcelain tiles have limitless possibilities for any interior design.
Porcelain pavers are ideal hardscape solution for swimming pools and any outdoor living space.
WHY PORCELAIN PAVERS?
HIGH RESISTANCE TO BREAKING LOADS AND STRESS
EASY TO INSTALL, REMOVE AND REPOSITION *
HIGH NON-SLIP PERFORMANCE: R11 A+B+C
RESISTANCE TO THE WEATHERING ELEMENTS AND THERMAL SHOCK
EASY TO CLEAN
HIGH RESISTANCE TO FROST AND FIRE
RESISTANCE TO SALT AND INALTERABILITY OVER TIME
RESISTANT TO ACIDS
* IT DOES NOT REQUIRE A SPECIALIZED PAVER LAYER (IN CASE OF DRY INSTALLATION) NEITHER THE USE OF GLUES AND GROUTS (IN CASE OF DRY OR RAISED INSTALLATION).
PERFECT CONTINUITY BETWEEN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR AREAS
REUSABLE
INSTALLATION OPTIONS
DRY INSTALLATION ON GRAVEL
DRY INSTALLATION ON SAND
DRY INSTALLATION ON GRASS
TRADITIONAL INSTALLATION ON SCREEDS
RAISED INSTALLATION ON SUPPORTS
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