VOLUME 12 / ISSUE 3 • QUARTER 3, 2019 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95
Software and Templating Systems Spotlight Page 20
ISFA Fabricator Profile: Carolina Custom Surfaces Page 24 Expanding Design Boundaries Page 28
Modernizing to Attract Millennials Page 32
Tile Backsplash Trends Page 34
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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: Daltile, Carolina Custom Surfaces, M.R. Walls, Mario Romano and Ceramics of Italy.
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About This Magazine Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (ISSN 2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in October. Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces are available at the nonmember “newsstand” price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces is also available by individual subscription at the following rates: ISFA nonmembers, one year (five issues) $30.00; ISFA members, one year free with every membership renewal. Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States. Call for details. To subscribe, call (888) 599-ISFA. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. For change of address, please include old label with new information, including both old and new zip codes. Allow 3-6 weeks for address change to take effect. Periodicals postage rate is paid at the Ingomar, Pa., post office as well as others. Opinions expressed by writers in this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces or the International Surface Fabricators Association, but rather those of the individual writers. Postmaster: Send address changes to LSC Communications, Care of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine, 121 Matthews Drive, Senatobia, MS 38668.
4 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Magazine Credits Publisher & Editor: Kevin Cole Proofreader: Nancy Mueller-Truax Design: V2 Marketing Communications
ISFA Officers of the Board Augie Chavez, President Kate Dillenburg, Immediate Past President and Secretary Paul “Max” Le Pera, Vice President Mike Langenderfer, Treasurer
ISFA Directors Adam Albee, Director Matt Kraft, Director Steve Mast, Director Austin Maxwell, Director Kelly Montana, Director Steve Stoddard, Director Eric Tryon, Director Jim Callaghan, Associate Member Representative Joe Connolly, Associate Member Representative
ISFA Staff Amy Miller, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Communications Director 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 on the back wall and island from Daltile’s American Reserve Historic Series within the ONE Quartz Surfaces® collection. The floor features a marble-look chevron mosaic from Daltile’s Marble Attaché™ Lavish collection. Read more about them on Page 19, or visit www.daltile.com for additional details on these particular products, and the company’s full array of product selections.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #3 ISFA member since 2016
CONTENTS Features 20 Software and Templating Systems Spotlight Products driving digital fabrication
SPOTLIGHT ON
SOFTWARE & TEMPLATING SYSTEMS
24 ISFA Fabricator Profile: Carolina Custom Surface How success comes with being well-rounded 28 Pushing the Boundaries of Design Emerging methods for keeping solid surface at the
20
top of the wave of innovation
32 Not Your Grandfather’s Factory: Modernizing Manufacturing to Attract Millenials Ideas for attracting and retaining the next generation of workers 34 Making a (Back)splash! Five trendy backsplash tile solutions epartments D 8 From the Editor
24
10 Calendar of Events 12 Education Connection 14 Industry News 37 From the Executive Director 37 ISFA News 41 ISFA Fabricator Directory 45 Product News
PHOTO BY LEVY
28
32 6 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
34
49 Classifieds/Ad Index 50 From the President
Check us out on social media for more regular information: Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CASMagazine/. Follow us on Twitter as @ISFA.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #4 • ISFA Member since 2000
From the Editor From the desk of Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher, and ISFA Communications Director
Of Ponderings on Leadership As I was putting together this issue of
and making them balance the weaknesses
a chance to learn a lot about the young man
happens, businesses progress and improve.
Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, I had
of others, to the greater good for all. If this
who won this year’s Mike Nolan Scholarship
Also, workers learn, have opportunity for
reminiscent. Looking back through the nearly
general welfare and advancement felt by all is
(read about it on Page 40), and it made me
growth and potential promotion, and the
two decades I have been involved in the
kept in place.
countertop/surfacing industry, I have had the pleasure of getting to know many people at all levels and sectors of the industry. I have met many fine people and some very top
performers, and there are certainly those who
While “leadership” is a hard term to lock down, success in leadership is equally difficult to
define. As I see it, it’s not necessarily in black
and white (or black and red). Although the idea
toward that vision. Leaders have to turn ideas into action. That requires a variety of many skills, such as problem-solving, listening, empowering and inspiring others, as well as being fair and modest and making sure others get recognition when it is deserved or reinforcement when it is needed. I have no doubt from what I’ve seen that certain behaviors and practices of leaders are a necessity, but ultimately the real test of a
is to get results, what exactly defines good
leader is who they are, not just what they do.
are certainly financial measurements, but is
organization’s vision and values. They generally,
it is to define leadership, but how it is also
out as much work as possible and generate
and represent what the company is all about.
At its root, it’s tied to being human. Things
things that equate to positive performance
kind in relation to other people all feed into the
and have different motivations. Things like
ability to keep others on task and motivated,
innovation, career development, culture and
is done by harnessing their strengths and
a truly successful leader needs the repeated
role in defining the successful end results of
improve processes, share ideas, examine new
science. That said, it can be learned, and
thing.
with driving the team toward the company’s
really stand out as strong leaders. Mike Nolan
results can be different in many cases. There
After all, they are the visible culmination of the
In thinking of this, I realized just how difficult
the exclusive goal at the end of the day to put
in public and sometimes in private, embody
something you know when you encounter it.
capital at all costs? I feel certain there are other
like being fair, honest, loyal, hard-working and
and affirmative end results. We are all human
leadership process. However, ultimately, it’s the
reputation, quality, production, satisfaction,
a team to make that vision a reality. This
working together toward a goal. While being
personal philosophy or beliefs also all play a
positively motivating their colleagues to
use of knowledge and effort, it’s not an exact
good leadership. Strong leaders do the right
alternatives and value creativity. In conjunction
likely has to be learned through experience.
These qualities, not just financial outcomes,
was one of them, and he is missed.
Leadership isn’t a “job.” It’s a unique collection of understanding and knowledge as well as
specific behaviors and actions that is different
in each leader, but in cumulative make up what we call leadership.
Good leadership fundamentally involves
establishing relationships with diverse people and groups of people with different ideas
and personal goals. Leaders help motivate and connect these entities. The ones I’ve
encountered inspired individuals to want to
work collectively toward the leader’s vision. They have been not just tolerant of, but
embrace the differences in people. They were never about making clones, but rather finding each person’s or group’s particular strengths
8 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
As I see it, good leaders look to define what an organization’s goals are, know what values it should hold important and drive
vision, it also has to be done while advancing
differentiate leaders from individuals who are
them all together regardless of any barriers or
oppressive and questionable behavior while
easy task.
just getting short-term financial results, but use doing so. We’ve all met the type of person who is purely commanding and controlling, and in my estimation, that doesn’t build trust with
others. Having a team that trusts and follows is
essential. These overly aggressive or potentially
obstructions. I think we can all agree this is no I have had the fortune to know many leaders
and many really great leaders in the industry. If you find one, you’ll know it. And, you will miss them when they are gone.
unethical styles may get more work done now,
As always, I look forward to your feedback.
followers, and that means failure.
Sincerely,
but in the long term, without trust, leaders lose Success in leadership for businesses seems
tied largely to knowing the industry landscape, having the experience to develop workable
goals that take various motivating factors into account, and getting people to work together
Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #5 ISFA Member since 2016
Special Section
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Natural Stone Institute Study Tour Aug. 18 – 22 Knoxville, Tenn. (440) 250-9222 CMA Regional Event Aug. 22 – 23 Minneapolis, Minn. (616) 930-4610 ISFA Industry Roundtable Sponsored by Crossville, Daltile, GranQuartz, KOHLER and Moraware Hosted by Precision Countertops Sept. 17 – 19 Portland, Ore. (888) 599-ISFA info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org 2019 Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo Sept. 17 – 19 Boston, Mass. (603) 471-0877 Natural Stone Institute Summit Sept. 19 Royal Oak, Mich. (440) 250-9222 Cersaie Sept. 23 – 27 Bologna, Italy +39 0536 818111 Regent Stone Quartz/Granite Countertop Fabrication Course Sponsored by ISFA Sept. 24 – 25 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 Regent Stone Quartz/Granite Surface Repair Course Sponsored by ISFA Sept. 26 – 27 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 Marmomacc Sept. 25 – 28 Verona, Italy +045 829 8111 ISFA Solid Surface Training Sponsored by Regent Stone Hosted by GECKO SSS Oct. 7 – 9 San Antonio, Texas (888) 599-ISFA info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org
Canada Woodworking West Oct. 2 – 3 Abbotsford, BC Canada (614) 850-1533 Natural Stone Institute Summit Oct. 10 Tampa, Fla. (440) 250-9222 CCI Ultimate Concrete Countertop Training Oct. 14 – 18 Raleigh, N.C. (919) 275-2121 StonExpo Mexico Oct. 15 – 17 Mexico City, Mexico (800) 547-3477 Wood Pro Expo Oct. 16 – 18 Lancaster, Pa. (717) 945-7087 ISFA 2019 Annual Conference Sponsored by GranQuartz, Crossville, Gemstone, Integra Adhesives, BACA Systems, Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces and Park Industries Oct. 20 – 23 Scottsdale, Ariz. (888) 599-ISFA info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org mDesign Live Oct. 28 – 29 Grand Rapids, Mich. (404) 693-8333 Natural Stone Institute Summit Nov. 7 Seattle, Wash. (440) 250-9222 CCI GFRC Training Nov. 7 – 8 Raleigh, N.C. (919) 275-2121 ISFA Industry Roundtable Sponsored by MSI and Park Industries Nov. 12 – 14 Tampa, Fla. 888-599-ISFA info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org
NBMDA Annual Convention Nov. 12 – 15 New Orleans, La. (888) 747-7862 Greenbuild Nov. 20 – 22 Atlanta, Ga. (972) 536-6367 Salone del Mobile Milano Shanghai Nov. 20 – 22 Shanghai, China +439 02 725941 Regent Stone Quartz Granite Countertop Fabrication Course Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 3 – 4 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 ISFA Industry Roundtable Sponsored by CMS North America Hosted by INDEKO Dec. 3 – 5 Guadalajara, Mexico (888) 599-ISFA info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org World Architecture Festival Dec. 4 – 6 Amsterdam, Holland The Netherlands +44 (0) 203 953 2045 Regent Stone Quartz Granite Repair Course Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 5 – 6 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 NAHB International Builder Show Jan. 21 – 23, 2020 Las Vegas, Nev. (202) 266- 8109 KBIS 2020 Jan. 21-23, 2020 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 267- 4662 TISE 2020 Jan. 28 – 30, 2020 Las Vegas, Nev. (866) 860-1975 CMA 2020 National Conference March 4 – 6, 2020 St. Louis, Mo. (616) 930-4610
Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org. 10 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #6 ISFA Member since 2017
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
An Examination of Duties and Tariff Activities in the Surfacing Industry Preliminary Anti-Dumping Duties vs. Final Anti-Dumping Duties for Chinese Quartz Products Exporter
Producer
Preliminary Estimated weightedaverage dumping margin (percent)
Final Estimated weighted-average dumping margin (percent)
Preliminary Cash deposit rate (adjusted for subsidy offset) (percent)
Final Cash deposit rate (adjusted for subsidy offset) (percent)
Foshan Yixin Stone Co., Ltd
Foshan Yixin Stone Co., Ltd
341.29
333.09
314.1
295.02
Foshan Yixin Stone Co., Ltd
QingYuan Yue Feng Decoration Material Co., Ltd
341.29
333.09
314.1
295.02
Suzhou Colorquartzstone New Material Co., Ltd., Shanghai Meiyang Stone Co., Ltd., CQ International Limited
Suzhou Colorquartzstone New Material Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Meiyang Stone Co., Ltd
242.1
265.81
242.1
255.27
Dozens of Non-Individually Examined Exporters Receiving Separate Rates
Dozens of Producers Supplying the Non-IndividuallyExamined Exporters Receiving Separate Rates
290.86
297.4
263.67
259.33
China-Wide Entity
China-Wide Entity
341.29
336.69
314.1
326.15
Figure 1 Final Chinese Quartz Duties Set
Chinese Quartz Preliminary Countervailing Duties vs. Final Duties
As reported in June, the U.S. International Trade
Company
Commission (USITC) affirmed judgement that the U.S. quartz surfacing manufacturing industry was materially injured by China dumping subsidized quartz surfacing products at less than fair market value. But, failed to rule in favor of “critical circumstances,” which would have
final antidumping and countervailing duty levels. While in most cases the anti-dumping duties
Final Subsidy Rate
Fasa Industrial Corp. Ltd.
178.45
190.99
Foshan Hero Stone Co. Ltd (cross-owned with other companies)
178.45
190.99
Foshan Nanhai Julang Quartz Co.
Not listed in preliminary
190.99
Quinguan Yuefeng Deoration Material Co.
Not listed in preliminary
190.99
All Others
34.38
45.32
allowed duties to be made retroactively. In July, the U.S. Commerce Department set the
Preliminary Subsidy Rate
Figure 2 Turkish and Indian Duties Investigation Continues
the European Union may face up to 100 percent tariffs related to a dispute between the U.S and
in the final ruling were slightly lower than the
Cambria has subsequently filed a similar petition
European manufacturers that dates back more
the countervailing duties were higher than the
margins that average 344.11 percent for India and
(WTO) recently found in favor of the United States
that there is sufficient evidence for the investigation
decision by an WTO arbiter as to the proper level
against both India and Turkey alleging dumping
than a decade. The World Trade Organization
preliminary rulings (see Figure 2).
89.38 percent for Turkey. The USITC responded
and the U.S. government is now waiting on a
When combined, importers of quartz products
into both countries, and preliminary findings as to
of tariffs. However, the Office of the U.S. Trade
initial assessment in most cases (see Figure 1),
are faced with fees ranging from about 310 percent to more than 500 percent, depending on what company it’s being imported from. These duties are in addition to the 25 percent tariffs President Trump put in place on Chinese goods, which also affect some stone and stoneworking equipment. The ruling included all quartz products along with products in which glass had been substituted by quartz, which was added mid-way into the process because of claims that Chinese companies were trying to skirt preliminary duties. The action comes as a result of a petition filed by Cambria back in April of 2018.
countervailing duties are expected in August, while preliminary results as to anti-dumping duties are expected in October.
The petitions have not gone unchallenged, with
Representative (USTR) estimates the level of new tariffs could be up to 100 percent of customs value. Chinese Ceramic Tile Investigation
many importers, fabricators and even domestic
Also, the Coalition for Fair Trade in Ceramic Tile
petition also brought a strong reaction from Turkish
producers, filed a petition alleging Chinese dumping
as the Turkish government. Experts at research
in late June that there was sufficient evidence for
producers of quartz arguing against them. The
(CFTCF) made up of eight large U.S. ceramic tile
and Indian manufacturers and exporters, as well
and subsidizing of ceramic tile. The USITC found
firm Freedonia, have said the additional fees could
an investigation. However, the timetable has been
increase domestic prices and limit supply, which
has been echoed by others in opposition, such as the American Quartz Worker Coalition.
pushed back for more time to look into the matter, so preliminary findings are now not expected until at least September.
Imports of Quartz and Granite Facing Tariffs
ISFA will continue to monitor these issues to keep
Additionally, quartz products (and granite) from
you informed.
12 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #7 • ISFA Member since 2015
In the Industry Investindustrial Acquires Majority Share in Neolith
The Stone Collection Denver Relocates
An investment subsidiary of Investindustrial VI L.P. has signed a partnership agreement with the current owners of Neolith, Jesus and Jose Luis Esteve. This partnership was initiated to support the next phase of development of the Neolith brand. Although Investindustrial will acquire a majority shareholding in the company, the Esteve family will retain a relevant minority interest. They will also continue to lead the management team and chair of the board of directors. Investindustrial is a European group of independently managed investment, holding and advisory companies with €6.8 billion of raised fund capital, which provides industrial solutions and capital to midmarket companies in Europe. Its mission is to actively contribute to the development of the companies in which it invests by creating growth opportunities and offering global solutions through an entrepreneurial pan-European vision. Terms of the shareholding purchase were not announced.
The Stone Collection will relocate to a larger,
Water Treatment Solutions Water Treatment Solutions recently promoted Christine Trefethen to the position of Director of Sales for the Stone Industry. In her time with the company Trefethen has worked in all facets of Water Treatment Solutions and most recently served as manager of customer service. Her time with the Customer Service Department has given her a lot of exposure to the family of customers and the experience necessary to understand the issues that a stone shop encounters.
LPI Grows Sales and Customer Service Teams, Celebrates 25th Anniversary LPI has hired Ryan McMasters as regional sales manager for the East Central territory and promoted Vincent Strelow from service technician to training specialist. McMasters joined the company with a wealth of stone-industry experience, having previously worked at SimsLohman and Battista Granite in Ohio, where his duties ranged from templating and designing to overseeing production and installation. Following the addition of McMasters, LPI strengthened its training department even further with the promotion of Vincent Strelow to training specialist. 14 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
state-of-the-art showroom and warehouse in Denver, Colo., this summer. The Stone
Collection has resided at its current facility
off of Interstate 70 and Peoria St. in Denver
since its inception in 2008. Its new facility is
located three miles west in Stapleton Business Park. The move reflects more than a decade of success and growth for the Coloradoborn company, which has quickly grown
to include nine locations in five states. The
new110,000-sq.-ft. showroom and product
will not only accommodate a more extensive
designed showrooms in Arizona, Texas, Utah
provide an improved customer experience with
warehouse in Denver will join innovatively
and Florida, bolstering the brand’s reputation as a large and diverse supplier of natural
stone slabs. The Stone Collection’s relocation An eight-year Army veteran, Strelow worked
on LT-55 and LT-2D3D units as an LPI service technician for the last two years.
Additionally, LPI is marking 25 years of innovative
inventory and new showroom, but it will also exceptional product displays and galleries,
better accessibility, and convenient frontage, closer to downtown Denver.
line with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda. In committing to sustainability and a positive environmental impact, the company adheres to strategic objectives like innovation (Sustainable
digital measuring systems for companies in
Development Goal 9) and sustainable production
Laser Templator laser measuring system, LPI
company constructed a self-contained residual
the world helping thousands of companies
industrial park in Cantoria. This plant is dedicated
digital templating system has more than 3,000
residual materials generated by the company in
by Inc. magazine as one of the 5,000 Fastest
the production of Silestone® and Dekton®, as
stone and various other industries. Led by its
(Sustainable Development Goal 12). Last year the
has sold more than 6,000 systems throughout
materials processing plant within the company’s
increase productivity. Today, the LT-2D3D
to the sustainable treatment and processing of
customers worldwide. LPI has been recognized
its production processes, especially sludge from
Growing Private Companies in America the past two years, and in 2018, LPI founder, Dan Louis, was recognized as an influential figure in the
industry when he was inducted into the National Kitchen and Bath Association Hall of Fame.
Cosentino Continues Support of Sustainability Cosentino has long been a supporter of
sustainability initiatives. In Spain, in 2018
alone, the company rolled out investments in
well as leftover broken or defective pieces. To highlight the importance the company places on this initiative, Cosentino currently manages a total of approximately 300,000 tons of residual material (more than 771 tons per day), and recovers more than 30 percent of it. In 2018, this metric grew by 83 percent when compared to 2017. The company is in the advanced stages of planning for what will be one of Spain’s largest renewable energy power plants for self-
environmental assets worth more than $5.6
consumption, which it expects to implement
on environmental improvement. In the United
Circular Economy, Cosentino aims to obtain a
assets worth $2.8 million, along with spending
from a county treatment plant. Construction of
friendly waste management. These tangible
water, located within Cosentino Park, is expected
million (USD), and $9.1 million in total spending
in 2020. In line with its goal to empower The
States, Cosentino invested in environmental
license that will permit the utilization of water
more than $7.5 million on environmentally
this new station for the regeneration of residual
commitments by the company are made in
to commence this year.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #8
In the Industry Spectrum Quartz Announces Plans for South Carolina Production Facility Spectrum Quartz, part of the Hirsch Glass
Corporation, a manufacturer and distributor of quartz and other glass products, announced
plans to open new production operations in Dillon County, S.C. A release in conjunction with South Carolina’s Commerce Department and the office of Gov. Henry McMaster stated the company is bringing approximately $22.5 million in capital
investment and will be creating more than 150 new jobs. Established in 2005, Hirsch Glass
Corporation designs and manufactures high-
quality glass products, including tiles, mosaics and panels. In 2014, the corporation launched
the Spectrum Quartz product line, manufacturing quartz slabs with unique aesthetics by utilizing
its patent protected technology. With a variety of
customers across the residential, commercial and hospitality industries, Spectrum Quartz features a wide selection of ready-to-use products for both
traditional and modern designs around the world. The company’s new 360,000-sq.-ft. production facility is located on a 42-acre tract of land in
Latta, S.C. New operations are projected to come online in the fourth quarter of 2019. According to the statement, hiring for the new facility is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2019. The South
Carolina facility has been in the planning stages
since 2017. Spectrum Quartz currently owns an operational production facility in China and has been producing quartz surfaces since 2014.
Braxton-Bragg Grows Sales Force Continuing to grow both its outside and
inside sales teams, Braxton-Bragg has hired Jose Figueroa as its second outside sales
associate in the California area, added another Viper Van mobile sales unit and promoted Andrew Geronimo to manage the newly
created Customer Delight Group (CDG). The
CDG is designed to ensure a great customer experience, whether the order is placed with outside or inside sales. With the ongoing
InnoChem Moves Headquarters
InnoChem, LLC, a specialty chemical manufacturer and supplier to the countertop, stone, tile, panel and construction industries, is moving its headquarters to a new, larger space in Atlanta, Ga. InnoChem manufactures the KBond adhesives and color pigments, and represents the Akemi products in North America. The company, which is celebrating its 10th year of business and partnership with Akemi GmbH this year, will leverage its new manufacturing and office space to provide expanded services for its clients while providing new internal operational efficiencies. The new facility also will provide InnoChem with improved, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and supply chain to facilitate higher efficiencies while providing the company with further room for growth.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #9 • ISFA Members since 2004 16 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
In the Industry growth of the company’s outside sales team,
and Service Award. DuPont has received this
the CDG group has been created to streamline
prestigious award for eight consecutive years.
communication between the inside and outside
Construction Resources Acquires United Materials Inc.
sales teams. Dedicated employee of eight years, Andrew Geronimo will act as the single point of contact for both sales teams, so they don’t miss a beat in this fast-paced environment.
DuPont Performance Building Solutions Receives “A,A” Partners of Choice Award
of slabs to better support the fabricator network in the residential and commercial segments. Founded by the Hires family in 1970 to manufacture cultured marble products, Construction Resources now offers more than 60 nationally recognized brands across 10 product categories in the single-family, multifamily and commercial segments.
Construction Resources, LLC, an Atlanta-based design and construction supply company, acquired United Materials, Inc. (UMI), a Floridabased importer and distributor of surfacing
CMA Announces Annual Election Results
materials. UMI has a diversified customer base, with more than 1,500 customers and annual
DuPont Performance Building Solutions (PBS),
revenues in excess of $50 million. UMI has three
a global business unit of DuPont, once again
design centers/distribution facilities located
received the “A,A” Partners of Choice Award
in Naples, Tampa and Boynton Beach, Fla.
from David Weekley Homes, the home building
The management team at UMI will continue in
industry’s gold standard for recognizing world-
their current roles as a part of the Construction
class performance. David Weekley Homes, the
Resources group. UMI’s sales and operations
nation’s largest privately held home builder, has
teams will continue providing quality products
been evaluating suppliers since 2004 with its
and service to their clients. UMI plans to expand
world-class Supplier Evaluation Platform. This
throughout Florida to generate a greater reach
year, DuPont PBS received an “A,A” in Quality
and facilitate a more localized distribution
The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) announced the results of its annual election for the organization’s board of directors and the installment of officers. Members re‐elected Chris Dehmer (pictured here) of Dark Horse Woodworking, in Atlanta, Ga., and James Fox of Fox Woodworking, in
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #10 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 17
In the Industry Phoenixville, Pa., to serve additional three‐year
terms. Brian Clancy of Clancy Woodworking, in Sherman, Conn., was elected as a new board member to serve for three years. The board
appointed the following officers effective until
June 30, 2020: Chris Dehmer, president; James
Fox, vice president; and Matt Wehner, secretary.
woodworking industry’s critical need to recruit, train and retain skilled machine operators, especially those who can be cross-trained to efficiently set up and run multiple machines on the shop floor. This new program builds on WCA’s well-established Woodworking Skill Standards and Credentialing system.
Past president Leland Thomasset will serve as
Rev-A-Shelf Hires New OEM Sales Manager
a member‐at‐large along with Ken Kumph of
Premier Builders, in Georgetown, Mass., and
Monika Soos of Sofo Kitchens, in Maple Ridge,
Rev-A-Shelf, LLC expanded its sales team and has hired Bryant Haas as an OEM sales manager.
British Columbia, Canada. Exiting the board is Matt Krig of Northland Woodworks, in Blaine,
Minn., after serving on the board for six years, four of which he served as president.
WCA 4.0 Debuts at AWFS Fair The Woodwork Career Alliance of North
America introduced WCA 4.0, a pilot program focused on training and accrediting machine
operators who work in cell-based manufacturing environments, at the AWFS Fair in July. The launch of WCA 4.0 is in response to the
Haas has more than 20 years of experience in the cabinet industry and has served in several volunteer positions in the NKBA and KCMA. Haas resides in southern Indiana and is a graduate of Indiana University. He is a Colonel in the U.S. Army National Guard where he has served for
more than two decades. Prior to coming to RevA-Shelf, he served as vice president of sales at HAAS Cabinet, where he worked with builders and kitchen dealers across North America.
GBI Announces Approval of ANSI-GBI 01-2019 The Green Building Initiative (GBI) announced the approval of ANSI-GBI 01-2019: Green Globes Assessment Protocol for Commercial Buildings. It was formally approved by ANSI as a consensus document and subsequently published as an approved ANSI Standard. Advances in the standard’s content include language on resilience, life cycle cost analysis, moisture control analysis, health and effectiveness, and many other market advances. The final approved standard and proposals for changes to the standard can be found on the GBI’s website at www.thegbi.org/ansi. The schedule for review of proposals is also published on the site.
SOFTWARE FOR FABRICATORS
ONLINE QUOTING
3D IN-STORE VISUALIZERS SOLUTION
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844-QUOTE-44
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SPOTLIGHT ON
SOFTWARE & TEMPLATING SYSTEMS
ARDIS ARDIS is a modular all-in-one software platform designed and built for the sheet cutting industry. The ARDIS Optimizer enables users to group orders and items, sort based on cutting plan, and take production challenges into account, such as tension-free cutting, minimum edgebanding length, and intermediate format generation for laminates. The company’s Operational Resource Planning (ORP) architecture is split into various functional products that also work perfectly on their own. Together they provide even better results. Their main features include: integration with all third-party machines and software; scalability and adaptability using standard parameters instead of custom software; running in the Cloud for complex, historical and comparative reports; and expandability. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #50
Chameleon Power CounterVision offered by Chameleon Power is a visualization tool and service that generates
ATI Decorative Laminates
leads and assists with buying decision. It
ATI Decorative Laminates introduced a new online tool for design planning. The ATI MirroFlex Visualizer allows users to see what MirroFlex substrates look like on a variety of surfaces, including walls, ceilings and counters. Customers will be able to click through thousands of options and see what the project looks like with MirroFlex installed.
visitors find the correct countertop material,
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integrates into a fabricator’s website to help as well as view it in their application. The augmented reality version can be used onsite to help view countertop color options in real time. It has all surfacing types, as well as complementary surfaces, such as backsplashes, cabinets, flooring and wall colors. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #52
20 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Crystallyne’s QuickQuote QuickQuote Countertop Software offered by Crystallyne Enterprises makes quoting, drawing, scheduling and laying out countertops fast and easy. It features a uniquely intuitive interface that generates a fully labeled scale drawing side by side with every quote, and its flexible pricing system lets users work with virtually any material and customize pricing and items to fit their businesses. Quotes can be printed together with the drawing on a single page, exported to a number of different formats, and transferred to QuickBooks®. Then users can schedule everything from template to installation and lay out the parts on slabs for more accurate material counts. The latest
updates focus on streamlining slab inventory management, expanding the number of pricing methods and giving users even more customization options. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #53
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ETemplate Systems ETemplate Systems, experts in digital measuring, released its second-generation ELaser Xpress Templating System powered by award-winning ETemplate Measure Manager software, offering seamless compatibility with all CNC machinery. The Xpress features new auto-start software, an industry best three-year warranty, enhanced speed averaging 1 second per point, accuracy of 1mm for a typical sized space, horizontal and vertical fine adjustment knobs, digital leveling, hand-held remote, rechargeable batteries with charger, and all new compact design with rugged case coming in at a very portable 13 lbs. These enhancements, along with the automated countertop functions within Measure Manager, allow the user to create templates much faster. Set up, shoot your points, and press enter; you’re done. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #54
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Fabricator’s Choice Fabricator’s Choice PHOTOTOP 5® now has even more capabilities for serious fabricators. New features include Auto-Create Miter Strips, Auto-Create Lamination and Auto-Dimension On PDF Output. Now with ORGANIZE®, it provides immediate on site confirmation and file delivery of the highly detailed templates. Professional training and online support are always available. Visit more jobsites in less time for superior, more profitable results. Digitally integrate templating with office inventory and job management systems, as well as shop equipment. Additional software licenses are not required to expand PHOTOTOP 5 to additional templaters. Simply order additional ORGANIZE Field Kits, which include a laptop, camera and markers. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #55
Formica Formica Group offers a free Design a Room Tool on its website to allow users to test drive a new kitchen or bathroom before purchasing. Choose from preselected images or upload an actual photo to use with the design tool. For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #56 For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #14 ISFA member since 2004
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 21
Laser Template Laser Template Inc.
has brought the Flexijet 3D Next Generation
other fabricators who get more done every day and have happier customers!
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #59
See our ad on Page 47
Measuring System to the
MSI
system that can continue
MSI
to measure countertops with precision and
debuted its
complex designs. Users can also add in on-site
Visualizer.
Countertop
speed, while also having the ability to tackle training with industry professionals and the ability for remote support.
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LPI One of the most
An augmented reality feature, the company
adds the visualizer to its array of virtual design
tools, including its Flooring Visualizer and Virtual Kitchen Designer. Available for desktop and
mobile applications, the web-based solution
Laser Templator is
trade partners, retailers and homeowners how
capabilities.
seconds. Once uploaded, the tool saves the
of LPI’s LT-2D3D
Countertop Visualizer is designed to show
its CNC integration
select countertops will look in their rooms in
Rapid file transfer and seamless integration
image automatically. From there, consumers
according to each brand’s specifications to help
countertops, view product details, share it on
rework and other modifications. This feature
their experience.
output package the LT-2D3D creates for each
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to many CNC brands ensure files are set up
can do a variety of things, such as select other
expedite the fabrication process by reducing
social media or via email, find a store and rate
is just one component of the comprehensive
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Multivista
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Multivista, part
one complete package that can be emailed.
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of Hexagon, has launched 3D
Images as part
Moraware
of its suite of
Countergo is a
documentation services for the construction
and estimating
Leica BLK3D, which is a handheld 3-D imager
you make a
picture 3-D measurement. Multivista’s precise
drawing, layout
industry. The service will be powered by the
software. It lets
that allows real-time, professional grade in-
out quick professional looking quotes for better communication with your customers!
Systemize is scheduling and job management software for countertop fabricators. If you
manage your countertop shop with whiteboards, file folders, or spreadsheets, we can help.
digital
templating solution for the stone industry. With
the Proliner at the center of each solution, Prodim provides a fast, accurate, reliable and durable digital templating tool for the market. Used
together with the self-developed stone industry
software, Prodim can offer any stone templater and fabricator a complete digital templating solution to help their business grow.
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3D Images service provides measurement
information at critical stages of construction and enables high-accuracy planning for completed spaces. Customers can also use 3D Images
with finished conditions for space planning or
identifying in-wall systems ahead of a renovation or repurpose of space, helping to avoid costly destructive verification methods. Like its
Systemize enables consistent communication
construction photo documentation service,
field. By avoiding costly mistakes and keeping
and support both the data capture and the data
to track your shop’s improvement over time
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in your office, your fabrication shop, and in the
Multivista will offer 3D Images as a full service,
your process moving successfully, you’ll be able
management.
with our reporting feature. Join the thousands of 22 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Quote Countertops Quote Countertops software was founded out of a simple purpose: to change the way the world
shops for countertops. We give fabricators a tool
that allows them to engage consumers and drive revenue for their business. Our 3D Visualizers,
Quoting tool and CRM system are solving complex
contracts, slab layouts and jobsite photos into
and get the price in just a few minutes. Send
complete
digitally in their interior and exterior spaces in real time. With no app to download, the
drawing of a countertop, lay it out on slabs,
offers the
allows customers to render MSI countertops
popular features
job. Create and package estimates, signoffs,
Prodim
Proliner
North American market. It provides fabricators a
Prodim
problems for the showroom, in-home estimates
and online. Quote Countertops allows consumers to visualize countertops while they shop from
the comfort of their home or a showroom. This tool helped one customer sell $4.5 million in countertops last year. A 15-minute demo is available online.
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See our ad on Page 18
SAi SAi, a
provider of software for the CNC
machining industry, issued a significant upgrade for subscribers to its flagship EnRoute CAD/
CAM software. EnRoute 6.1 meets the various
needs and budgets of users across multiple areas. Available to existing subscribers of EnRoute
software, EnRoute 6.1 includes half a dozen new efficiency-enhancing tools to boost CNC routing
capabilities for CNC woodworking and millworking
companies, as well as nested-based manufacturing users. These new features span improved
previewing options, comprehensive job statistics
of sink(s), faucet holes, edge options, including
rework by automatically retrieving job data from
options enable users access to the productivity
days. It is suitable for one-offs or larger projects
allowing fabricators to ensure the job has the
a comprehensive design-to-output workflow,
the custom vanity top with Avonite® Surfaces
tools. EnRoute Fabrication offers tools tailored to
and lengths up to 144 in. by 60 in. wide in ¼-in.
and greater cutting control. SAi’s many different
aprons, and take delivery in under 15 business
Moraware and creating labels for jobs in seconds,
and design tools required for their needs. Offering
requiring 20 to 120 more vanity tops. Complement
correct edges and ships complete to the jobsite
EnRoute Complete comprises the full spectrum of
shower kits, available in stocked custom widths
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users operating waterjet CNC machines
and ½-in. thicknesses.
Stonegrid
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #64
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Stonegrid’s Stoneapp is a fully
SPEEDdraw SPEEDdraw is made to expedite turning
digital measuring files
into completed shop
drawings and programready files. Whether
SolidSurface.com SolidSurface.com, the online order desk and sheet material supplier for more than12 major brands of
solid surface and 1000s of overstock and discount products, recently launched Custom Vanity Top Designer℠, an online software tool for building
custom vanity tops. Choose from premium line colors of Corian® Solid Surface or HI-MACS®
solid surface to start your design. Then choose
the length, width, number of sinks, type and color
the first time.
integrated software designed for fabricators by fabricators. It is a comprehensive, yet simple and
powerful software system made to achieve maximum efficiency from
entering a lead, moving to a quote,
promoting to a job, managing material, creating schedules and assigning production resources,
using a field measurer or a CAD draftsman to
without any repetitive data entry. Users can control
a final shop ticket and creates program ready
and commission structure. The idea is to reduce
was developed by countertop fabricators for
parts tracking, field applications, capacity tools
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #66
inventory with reconciliation and valuation reporting
SPEEDlabel
tools, and sync with Sage or Quickbooks (online or desktop) to eliminate data entry time and errors.
SPEEDlabel is designed to reduce labor and job
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #68
finalize your dxf files, SPEEDdraw produces
margins through price books, built-in cost analysis
files in 50 to 75 percent of the time. The system
errors and manage production with scheduling,
countertop fabricators.
and more. Users can manage purchasing and
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #15 • ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 23
ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: Carolina Custom Surfaces
Carolina Custom Surfaces (CCS) was founded in 1995 by Rudy Hoch. Rudy and his wife Phyllis bought the manufacturing assets of a small cultured marble company in Randleman, N.C. and CCS was born. Under Rudy’s leadership the company made cultured marble vanities, shower systems and bathtubs. It also began to produce its own brand of solid surface called Carolite. In 2000, CCS relocated to Greensboro, N.C., to accommodate the company’s growth and to be closer to its primary builder market. During the time CCS was being managed by
Hoch, Joe Duszka earned a degree in industrial engineering at the University of Illinois, and
went to work for a couple of manufacturing
companies in Chicagoland eventually working his way up from industrial engineer to plant
manager. “From this experience I knew that I
one day I wanted to own my own manufacturing
Carolina to run their business with the intent to eventually sell it to them, which was the opportunity they had been working toward. So, they moved from the Chicago area to join CCS, and in December 2005, the Duszka’s bought the company and Joe took over as president. “Shortly thereafter we began the search for
company because I loved working in an industry
a new location to allow for growth in solid
Duszka. “I love working with people, processes,
so that we could enter that growing segment
Material with varying degrees of gray veining are most sought after in Carolina Custom Surfaces showroom, with quartz making up 40 percent of the material used. currently operates three manufacturing
departments: stone, solid surface and cultured
marble. The company has almost 50 employees in manufacturing, templating, sales and
administration and has a fully staffed showroom for both residential and commercial customers. It primarily services about a two-hour radius of
its location, except for work with its commercial partners, which can take it further because
where we built a tangible product,” explained
surface and to open a stone fabrication shop
and equipment to figure out the best way to
of the industry,” said Duszka. “It was apparent
Diversity as a Fundamental
accomplish the task at hand. However, I also
at that time if we wanted to continue to grow our market share, we would have to enter the
Today, the company produces about 750 sq.
knew that I needed to have a better financial
understanding of how to run a business, so I
stone fabrication business. This is when we
went back to school and earned my MBA at
partnered with Park Industries to help us learn
Pepperdine University.”
how to fabricate stone and what equipment
In 2004, within a few years of earning his
master’s degree, the Hoch’s approached Joe and his wife Deborah about moving to North
24 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
was needed.” In late 2006, early 2007, CCS moved to its current location in Greensboro, N.C., and
projects are evaluated on a job-specific basis.
ft. of finished surfacing material a day, with the
jobs split up among its various products. Quartz and stone makes up 65 percent of its work,
solid surface 29 percent and cultured marble 6 percent of the material processed.
The work is divided about 60 percent
residential work and 40 percent commercial
projects. As such, the company understands
word-of-mouth communication is positive.
paths to market and customer types.
several social media platforms and have been
the importance of a broad range of products, “One of the big lessons learned during the last recession was the value of diversification,”
explained Duszka. “So, we’ve transitioned our business from primarily a builder and kitchen & bath dealer base to one that also includes
direct sales, big box stores, furniture dealers
and millworkers. This diversification was one of the keys to successfully navigating the
recession and has led to the growth that we have experienced since.”
This had led CCS to develop a broad base of
We’ve also recently become very active on
pleasantly surprised about how much attention
Owned by Joe and Deborah Duszka since 2005, Carolina Custom Surfaces now employs nearly 50 staff, which it counts among its most valuable assets.
we garnered through our posts.”
The company has outside salespeople to drive
commercial team that monitors bid requests for
starts, as well as gather intelligence, such as
heavily with millwork companies to provide the
builder work, monitor permits and follow job
through social media, about potential builder
customers to better engage them when working to earn their business.
With commercial being such a large percentage of work, Carolina Custom Surfaces has a full
projects within its service area. CCS also works tops for their cabinets and millwork. “We have found the key to this segment is not just being price competitive, but also being able to deliver on time commitments,” said Duszka. “It’s also important to have the technical expertise to not
customers, including commercial contractors, kitchen and bath dealers, retail and direct
sales, builders, big box stores, and furniture companies.
Duszka said CCS has a nontraditional sales
relationship with kitchen & bath retailers and designers, in that many of them work with
the company, but it’s typically a direct buying experience with the K&B shops/designers
receiving a separate fee from the clients instead of a subcontracting relationship. “We have
a showroom that is complete with all of the
products we sell in a friendly atmosphere that
K&B dealers can send their clients to,” he said.
“We also often have designers in the showroom
working with their clients utilizing our sales team as needed.”
Other direct sales typically come to the
company as referrals, so good feedback is
critical. “We contact customers for feedback
after installation is complete to let them know that we appreciate the opportunity to work
with them and learn how we can continue to
get better,” said Duszka. “That helps to ensure
Residential work makes up about 60 percent of the company’s business, quartz surfacing being the highest percentage of products being used. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 25
carolina custom surfaces
Solid surface remains among the most common materials used by CCS, with about 40 percent of all of the company’s work falling into the commercial category. only know what can be done, but also what
should be done to protect the end user and all involved in the project.”
Advanced Equipment and Excellent People When it comes to successful operations
beyond the sale, Carolina Custom Surfaces
relies heavily on two things to produce high-
quality products on time: high-end equipment and a well-trained and qualified workforce. In both areas, relationships are critical.
“CCS uses digital technology wherever we can use it effectively to improve our productivity, quality and the customer experience,” said Duszka. “We build relationships with our
suppliers because they are truly business
partners. We work with Park Industries primarily for our stone equipment. They are a true
business partner.” The equipment used in the
stone shop is reflective of that partnership, such as the following Park Industries equipment: a
Fusion 4245SL Sawjet; a Titan 2800 CNC router; a Fastback straight edge polisher; a Wizard radial arm polisher; a Pathfinder/Slabsmith
Although CCS started out as a small cultured marble manufacturing facility, and still offers the product today, only about 7 percent of its projects are done in cultured marble.
The solid surface shop relies on an AXYZ CNC
test, but offers insight into how applicants
For cultured marble, CCS uses a Gruber
Once the right person is hired, the company
and conveying equipment.
trained properly. Not only do the workers
router and a Pinske Edge thermoforming oven. Autocaster, spray booth, grinding booth, molds And with all jobs, the company relies on LPI’s LT 2D3D lasers to create accurate digital
templates, which Duszka says helps prevent callbacks.
While all of this equipment improves the
repeatability and accuracy of the work put out,
the other major factor in its production success is the people CCS hires. The company spends plenty of time building the culture of success. “Hire with intention,” suggested Duszka. “I
am always looking for great talent. I may not necessarily have an opening at the time, but I try not to pass on great people, and have
created positions for the right people. I look to
think and value others.
then focuses on making sure they are
get job-specific internal training, but, where
appropriate, CCS will send employees to train off site to improve their skills and knowledge.
“We believe that our employees should always be growing, and training opportunities are one
way to do that,” said Duszka, who listed a host of opportunities for such training, including
Park Industries Digital Expos; product specific training from various suppliers; trade shows, such as Polycon and TISE; and networking and training events offered by industry
organizations such as ISFA and the Rockheads group.
The Philosophy behind the Success
hire people that have strengths where we have
With CCS counting its staff among its top assets,
more than we do in a particular situation.”
workers are satisfied. “A happy member of the
weaknesses and seek out people that know
the company goes out of its way to make sure its team is a more productive member of the team,”
system for creating digital layouts of customers
Duszka said he personally interviews each
The stone shop also features a Northwood
candidate can add value to the team. If he
saw; a Water Treatment Solutions system for its
department head for the area of responsibility
To help make sure this happens, Carolina
programming software; and Speedlabel for
job. He also said he uses a pre-employment
more “family-oriented.” To accomplish this task,
jobs; and a Hydroclear water recycling filter.
potential team member to determine if the
138 CNC machine; a Farnese dedicated miter
feels they can, he then moves them on to the
closed-loop water recycling system; Alphacam
they are hiring into to discuss specifics of the
tracking jobs in the shop.
questionnaire that not only includes a math
26 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
explained Duszka. “A more stimulated and
challenged team member, in the right culture, will be happier and more engaged.”
Custom Surfaces works to make their team feel
the company has several events meant to build a
CCS operates three manufacturing departments: solid surface, stone and cultured marble fabrication, allowing it to be a one-stop shop for customers and helping it to take an educated advisory role with its clients.
CCS has invested heavily in digital fabrication, partnering with equipment providers and utilizing numerous CNC machines from such companies as Park Industries, Northwood and AXYZ, as well as taking advantage of the training opportunities these companies provide.
team spirit. Among these are company cookouts
that is not the whole picture. We strive to be
a meal and some time together; an annual chili
to the experience we provide in our showroom,
during work, where the entire company shares
cook-off in which cross-department interaction is
encouraged; an annual Thanksgiving meal for the past 10 years; and an annual “Family Fun Day” in which CCS takes employees and their families to a local minor league baseball game with a buffet style meal provided, as a way of getting to know the families of its team and to say thank you for sharing them with it. “Our team spends a lot of time at work, and we want their family to know
that we appreciate them, too,” explained Duszka. “We also base our salary increases and
promotions on merit, not seniority. I believe
our team appreciates this because it reinforces the performance orientation of our culture,” he
continued. “Successful employees want to know that they are part of something bigger than just their job; they want to provide more than just a
countertop. At CCS, our team’s desire is to make the customer’s experience better than they could
different, from the way that we answer the phone at template and so on throughout the entire
process. Our job does not end when we install the countertop and collect a check. We follow up after the installation to make sure that we
have exceeded our customer’s needs and to
learn from the times where we haven’t so we can make the appropriate adjustments.”
Carolina Custom Surfaces also works to build personal rapport with its clients. One such
way is to host several “customer nights” each
exceed their expectations,” said Duszka. “The
need to succeed and then let them flourish while holding them accountable. Strong teams are accountable to each other and expect to be held to that standard.” He also pointed out that it is key to have the courage to address anything that doesn’t align with the culture in your business, and to make sure to recognize and reinforce actions that are exemplary of your culture.
games where it rents a suite for the night and
batter at what you do. He pointed out that CCS
team members. “We ask members of our team
such as ISFA, NSI, PCMA and the Rockheads,
that they can put a face on the company and
allow him and the company to learn and share
continuing to invest in personal training to get
caters in food and drinks for both clients and
is a member of various trade organizations,
that interact with those customers to attend so
and that connections made within these groups
build the relationships,” said Duszka. “We will
our templaters, schedulers, project managers,
customers and help provide options that will
other fabricators. “Give them the tools they
various events, such as minor league baseball
This leads to an improved experience for
we want to be a ‘trusted advisor’ for our
Duszka when asked what advice he would offer
Duszka emphasized the importance of
have our sales manager, finance manager, plant
of success. “We are not just selling countertops;
“Always invest in building your team,” said
year where the company invites customers to
have imagined.”
customers, which in turn leads to greater levels
Moving Forward
manager and myself at each event. We also ask inside sales and outside sales team to attend
best practices from and with others to improve not only the company, but also the industry as a whole. With 24 years of history and experience behind
at several of these, dependent upon the group
it and a focus on proactive process, technology
opportunity for all involved.”
Services is in a great position to succeed for
of customers attending. This is a great learning
primary value-add for our customers is our
This philosophy that focuses on both internal
touch point we have with them. Fabricating
has served the company well over the years and
focus on improving their experience at every
and external relationships as well as satisfaction
countertops satisfies some of their needs, but
continues to lead to greater success.
and business development, Carolina Custom another two dozen years and beyond. For more information contact Carolina Custom Surfaces, located at 100 Landmark Dr., Greensboro, NC 27409, by phone at (336) 299-3030 or email at info@carolinacustomsurfaces.com. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 27
Mario Romano, designer and fabricator, has utilized advanced software and machinery to push the boundaries of solid surface, able to create large-scale, nonrepeating patterns to match just about any design goal.
P U S H I N G the Boundaries of Design Emerging methods for keeping solid surface at the top of the wave of innovation By Mario Romano As a designer, I want to express design in the
as simple as a countertop to as complex and
the architectural world as permanent and robust
of many materials. I wasn’t interested in flatness
undulating palm fond.
wall panels.
build environment outside of the limiting formats or smooth surfaces; I wanted texture and line work to branch out, iterate and expand as
intricately or as complex as I could imagine. To
do this, I turned to solid surface and its ability to bond to itself virtually seamlessly.
In order to push the boundaries of design, we
have to look “in the grandiose lines of nature,” as
August Rodin said when asked where he found his
inspiration. Nature is a supreme designer. It’s taken some time for humankind to realize this, and only since the 1980s did we have the computational power to learn that nature has a design logic
all its own, an iterative logic so complex that it appeared, until recently, like chaos.
This stands in contrast to the modernist
movement led by Le Corbusier, who insisted that the straight line was man conquering the chaos
of nature. Nature’s logic reveals a new, emerging style of design, known by such names as
organic, parametric, generative or even emergent design. No matter what this new design style
is called, it has arrived, and for the architecture community, solid surface offers an excellent
expressive as a parametric screen shaped as an It may be a bold statement, but having worked and researched all types of materials over the
past 15 years, I believe the inherent properties in
solid surface behave most similarly to the source of form and the potentiality of what form can be, and without form there is no design.
Solid surface is a material that is fluid, expressive and flowing with potential. For me, it has been the skeleton key for unlocking the boundaries
of design. A large factor that differentiates solid
surface is that when cut, shaped and, ultimately, fragmented, the pieces can be seamlessly
reunited. Reuniting the many back into the one,
as poetic as this sounds, is the key to pushing the limits of design. It allows design to break out of
the box via the continuity, fluidity and a wave-like intelligence. Solid surface, although shipped in
construction surfaces. One particular focus was It was a bit of a dream, so I started off small,
experimenting, testing and researching with solid
surface on a daily basis, including numerous mockups that got bigger and bigger, until they grew to full sized installations permanently installed on people’s walls, bathrooms and facades.
Textured solid surface has a wholly unique and soft tactile sensation that is warm and smooth to the touch. The way it behaves when carved is also unlike others, as the material can hold an immense amount of nuanced detail that
enables a high level of resolution, expression
and sensitivity to light and shadow, as well as backlighting (see Figure 1). Computers and
machines were the catalyst that allowed us to push these boundaries of design.
rectangular shapes, can easily be melded into
To accomplish this, we had to develop our own
profiled and thermoformed into complex geometry,
in solid surface material. Our patent-pending
massive monolithic slabs, and can be carved,
software specifically to allow for complex designs
as complex as nature could have ever made.
software allows us to design algorithmically while
Special Effects into Architecture
behaviors and CNC machine time, as well as
including considerations for installation, material
source material to express what the world
We wanted to superimpose droplets, rainbows,
offering special-effects-like design potential. In
and uninterrupted forms that can take on shapes
these complex and beautiful organizations – into
outside in, referring to the elements of nature,
naturally creates: smooth, undulating, continuous 28 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
butterfly wings, vortexes and natural imagery –
the design world we frequently hear bringing the
Figure 1 – Romano takes into account a variety of properties inherent in solid surface, such as its reaction to light and shadow, as well as its ability to be backlit, into his unique designs.
light, landscape and the beauty that only nature can bestow. We challenged ourselves to deliver
a nature-inspired design experience and bring it
inside the home, albeit on the wall as textured and carved solid surface. M.R. Walls was the result. M.R. Walls’ Unique Fabrication Using the software technology that contains the design and the installation process, the solid
surface panels are carved with robotic CNC-type machines. M.R. Walls arrive in puzzle pieces,
instead of panels, and are precisely cut so that
they interlock creating a design experience. The process allows for organized complexity and
unlimited scaling, as well as endless design and color possibilities.
The beauty of the system is that the M.R. Walls
can be connected to make one massive surface, without the appearance of seams. The 3-D
designs created within the high-tech software,
combined with the abilities of the CNC machine,
paves the way for nonrepeatable patterns inspired by nature.
I wanted to expand the design language of the wall surface. I wasn’t interested in just having the same shape repeated, as dictated by a mass-produced, unmalleable medium. With M.R. Walls, unique pieces fit together to create an uninterrupted
design experience that extends over a large area.
People want something they haven’t seen before,
that evokes mystery and intrigue. When you see a large-scale, yet unique object, you wonder how it was created. No one thinks that when they see a
common repeated pattern. Nature doesn’t repeat itself, so why should your walls?
At our studio we revere digital fabrication as part of a new epoch that integrates the builder and
the designer, as one source. Since Leon Alberti
dictated, some 500 years ago, architects design with drawings and builders do the composing
with material. Digital fabrication offers the ability
to unite both the designer and the maker, allowing the designer to actually create in the computer, and then ultimately have a machine fabricate
exactly what was created. We’ve focused our
entire business around this, and this approach to fabrication enables our team to keep practicing
the art of making with each variation of the digital
model able to be produced. In this way, designers and fabricators are freed from the constraints of first making the object in the physical world.
The Wave of Design Very often the essence of the universe is described as a wave, namely a wave particle. When it comes to design, and understanding how meaningful and impactful it is, we have to look at the wave, its
shape and its metaphor. The wave is continuous,
uninterrupted, fluid and at times amorphous, in the sense that it has no start and stop. Our focus on
this idea has led to some very interesting projects. Bird Feather Façade – In what we call the Wave House, my team and I wanted to create a solid
surface facade that resembled the organization of bird feathers (see Figure 2). We wanted a unique monolithic bird-like feather arrangement to not
only stack over each other, but also wrap around
the corner of the building. The challenge was how to thermoform the large pieces on site using the
Figure 2 – In a project called “Wave House,” Romano and his team created a solid surface façade that resembled unique, overlapping bird feathers that wrap around the building. building corner as the form in which to bend. We actually turned to a BBQ for the answer, setting only the individual part wanted to form into the BBQ, and waiting for about five minutes. This
would result in warm and flexible piece that we
would hoist up, clamped with rope, which would
allow the crew about two minutes in which to set the bend or form the piece around the corner. “Another shrimp on the BBQ” we would joke.
Clearly a BBQ, is not in any of the solid surface fabrication guidelines, but let’s face it, 250 F is
simply 250 F whether it’s a $10,000 thermoforming oven or a gas grill.
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 29
Figure 3 – Spanning more than 600 sq. ft. without any repetition or visible seams, 27 unique puzzle pieces, all carved, etched and textured, interlocked together creating a massive custom mural around a swimming pool at a $20 million spec house in Los Angeles.
the experience of an indoor swimming pool with
36 of the same (See Figure 4). This was a bit of a shocker to the customers, but they were intrigued. Harnessing the power of low-level robotics, like a CNC machine, combined with massive computational programming is an achievement that would not have been possible a decade ago.
also impervious to the wet environment. Spanning
About the Author
Swimming in a Museum – In another project, a
real estate developer creating a $20 million spec home in Los Angeles wanted an iconic design
for the indoor swimming pool wall surfaces. We
proposed the image of the “Great Wave” to unite a super large scale museum-like surface that was more than 600 sq. ft. without any repetition or
visible seams, 27 unique puzzle pieces, all carved, etched and textured, interlocked together creating a massive custom mural (see Figure 3). Mass Customization For one particular hotel project with 36 showers, we proposed 36 different M.R. Wall designs. The client
thought this would be incredibly expensive. We told him the computer and the machine don’t care if
Mario Romano is a designer specializing in digital fabrication, architecture and construction. He has designed and built over $50 million worth of high-end luxury homes. He is also the founder and CEO of Romano Studio, which offers M.R. Walls, an exclusive line of multidimensional panels intricately carved and textured from DuPont Corian for virtually any application. For more information visit https://mrwalls.marioromano.com/.
they are making 36 different showers surrounds or
Figure 4 – Romano’s M.R. Walls product can produce countless individual unique designs, rather than repeating the same patterns over and over.
Mario Romano will be among the speakers at ISFA’s Annual Conference this
year to be held Oct. 20 to 23 in Scottsdale, Ariz. He will provide an inside look at his unique methodology of creating one-of-a-kind wall panels and facades, via his M.R. Walls product line. Registration for the event, which will be held at the beautiful Mountains Shadow Resort, is open now. Tickets include three nights at the Mountain Shadows Resort in Paradise Valley, a Golf Scramble at The Short Course, Mountain Shadows, and breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening cocktails each day.
October 20-23, 2019
The event includes numerous educational opportunities, networking events, the ISFA Annual Awards Ceremony and plenty of time to enjoy yourself at the resort, in Scottsdale and on the golf course. You can find out more about the ISFA Annual Conference and register for the event by visiting www.ISFAnow.org or emailing info@isfanow.org.
30 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
PRESENTING SPONSORS
OTHER SPONSORS
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #13 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 31
Next, check out your social media. (Now, if you’re saying “What’s that?” or “That’s just a fad,” you have your work cut out for you.)
NOT YOUR GRANDFATHER’S FACTORY:
Modernizing Manufacturing to Attract Millennials by Lisa Ryan
Why is engagement such a big deal in
more attractive and appealing to prospective
according to industry experts, for every four
brand. If your company is stuck in an old, calcified
manufacturing and the skilled trades? Because trade positions that workers retire from, the
industry is producing only one replacement.
Worse yet, it’s predicted that in the next decade, 2 million out of the 3.5 million manufacturing jobs available will go unfilled because of the lack of available talent.
Now you may be asking, how can that be? With millions of jobless Millennials, who happen to
be facing an unemployment rate that is double
the national rate, don’t we have enough people to fill those positions? Not until we change the image and perception of manufacturing – for both kids and their parents.
For the past two generations, young
professionals haven’t exactly been leaping
at the chance to work in the trades. Part of the problem is the stigma that working in
a shop setting has – working in an unclean
environment with outdated thinking and little
room for growth. The other, bigger issues are the parents who have discouraged their kids from attending trade or technical school and
instead promote the value of a four-year degree from a college or university. According to the
National Association of Manufacturers and the
Manufacturing Institute, only three in 10 parents would consider encouraging their child toward
employees? You can start by modernizing your way of doing business, you’re going to have a
hard time finding and keeping younger workers. Today’s workers are digital natives. They are “wired” for technology in a way unlike any
previous generations, and they expect to access it in the workplace. That’s why it’s critical for
manufacturers to not only have cutting-edge
technology available, companies need to promote the technology used in their production process. Millennials will be pleased, if not surprised, to
know that more than half of U.S. manufacturing companies use robots.
Look for ways to better utilize mobile devices,
videos and virtual reality in your hiring process as well as throughout the plant. Millennials are used to watching videos to learn about new things, so
why not use YouTube or another video website to
give potential hires a realistic view of “a day in the life” of a worker at your facility. Keep the videos
to two to three minutes or less and capitalize on
the “wow” factors of the job. Not sure what they are? Ask your current team members what they enjoy most about their job. You may even want
to interview them and let them share their story in
the video. In doing so, you’re letting job applicants know that this isn’t their grandfather’s factory!
a manufacturing career. The perception has
One of the first places to start is your company
“college material,” and parents want their kids
your company is all about, but it needs to be
been that you go into the trades if you are not
website. Yes, it’s a great place to share what
to be “college material.”
real – not a bunch of mumbo-jumbo “marketing
As the United States is now undergoing a
“manufacturing renaissance” and business
owners and developers are looking to produce
goods on American soil again, there is an urgent and growing need for new talent.
So, how do you make skilled trades jobs 32 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
speak.” Look for ways to share your company
culture and mission. What is it like to work there? Demonstrate how your products and services serve a greater mission than simply making a
profit. Take advantage of your online presence to
show how your company makes a positive impact on society.
Figure out where your potential hires are hanging out. They may not be on Facebook; they may choose Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn instead. It’s important to make sure your channels are active and up-to-date. Give your employees opportunities to share what’s going on from their perspective. Post pictures from social events, charitable projects and other fun occasions. Does your company look like a fun place to work from a social media standpoint? If not, look for ways to improve public perception. When done well, this can be a relatively quick fix – just start posting! When you have an active, engaging online social media presence, it builds credibility with potential hires from the younger generations. Finally, keep in mind that Millennials are always connected. They look for one-on-one communication and immediate feedback. They consider their managers and leaders their peers and want to have access to them. If the only time you’re giving feedback is during the annual review process, you’re going to lose. There are lots of online tools, pulse-type surveys and artificial intelligence programs that can help give feedback on demand. Communicating frequently and keeping employees in the loop will do wonders for engagement and performance development. The digital nature of today’s manufacturing is opening up many opportunities for skilled positions, transforming the manual nature of a factory job to the high-tech environment it is today. According to Vicki Holt, president and CEO for Protolabs, “Digital manufacturing is revitalizing our industry and is igniting new opportunities. The skills gap presents a critical roadblock for all of us. But it’s encouraging to see a renewed optimism from a new generation of workers and to hear that they understand this isn’t their grandparents’ manufacturing industry. Much work remains ahead of us, but this is a good start.”
About the Author Lisa Ryan helps organizations who want to keep their top talent from becoming someone else’s. She is the founder of Grategy and is an award-winning speaker and best-selling author of 10 books, including “Manufacturing Engagement: 98 Proven Strategies to Attract and Retain Your Industry’s Top Talent.” More information is available at www.LisaRyanSpeaks.com.
Lisa Ryan will be among the speakers at ISFA’s Annual Conference
October 20-23, 2019 PRESENTING SPONSORS
OTHER SPONSORS
this year to be held Oct. 20 to 23 in Scottsdale, Ariz. She will provide an in-depth, interactive and informative presentation on “Manufacturing Engagement” and will cover a number of topics pertinent to today’s work environment including: ■■ Retention challenges and ways to keep your good people from leaving
■■ Why long-term employees stay and how they can play a key role in your talent attraction and recruiting process ■■ Resources to find new talent in a shrinking pool of prospects ■■ Promoting higher levels of trust between leadership and workers ■■ Utilizing the THANKS process to create a culture of appreciation in the workplace ■■ Increasing retention rates through an atmosphere of respect and communications ■■ Applying all of the above tools to personal development as well
Registration for the event, which will be held at the beautiful Mountains Shadow Resort, is open now. Your ticket includes three nights at the Mountain Shadows Resort in the heart of Paradise Valley, a Golf Scramble at The Short Course, Mountain Shadows, and breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening cocktails each day. The event includes numerous educational opportunities, networking events, the ISFA Annual Awards Ceremony and plenty of time to enjoy yourself at the resort, in Scottsdale and on the golf course. You can find out more about the ISFA Annual Conference and register for the event by visiting www.ISFAnow.org or emailing info@isfanow.org.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #16 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 33
Making a (BACK) Splash!
Five trendy backsplash tile solutions By Ceramics of Italy
With a near endless selection of tile options
available in the market, a kitchen backsplash
can be made to serve a greater purpose than its primary function as a barrier from grease
and messes. It’s the perfect space for creative patterns and unconventional shapes and
Fondovalle’s “MyTop” collection is a perfect example of the all-over design aesthetic, with coordinated tiles that extend even into the kitchen sink and cabinet veneers.
While large-format tiles are on-trend in today’s
this increased demand for product versatility
expression, calling for bright colors, bold formats.
kitchens, even when other materials, such as quartz, granite or solid surface are used, tile remains a popular option for backsplashes. And, mixing materials in the kitchen also continues to be popular.
Here are five trendy tile solutions for livening up a kitchen with a beautiful, yet functional backsplash design.
1. Seamless Surfaces Total-look spaces are trending in the design
industry, and kitchen design is no exception! Whether for economical or creative purposes, designers are opting for single tile collections
that can be used for a wide variety of surface
applications. Manufacturers are responding to
Figure 1 – (Left to right) This Cotto d’Este “Vanity” (left) and Florim “Florim STONE” (right) large format tiles have minimal grout lines, making them easy to maintain and stand up to messes.
34 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
with ceramic tile collections that offer a full range of formats and thicknesses, and can therefore be used to create matching backsplashes and countertops. The result is a
extend even into the kitchen sink and cabinet veneers (see Lead-in Photo). One added benefit of the seamless tile look is that it minimizes grout lines, making these largeformat tiles easy to maintain and stand up
seamless-looking, almost fluid transition from
against greasy messes (see Figure 1).
one surface to the next.
2. The New Subway
Some collections that execute this all-over
Since their introduction with the first New York
design aesthetic offer coordinated tiles that
City subway stations back in 1904, subway
Figure 2 – The standard 3- by 6-in. format subway tile will never go out of style, but the industry is finding new and interesting ways to re-imagine this iconic look, such as the Tonalite “Dart” tiles shown here.
Figure 3 – New subway tile layouts are challenging the typical mold with vertical designs, such as Marca Corona’s “Regoli” tiles stacked end-to-end in a vertical fashion (left) and textures such as Made+39’s “Drapes” tiles (right), arranged horizontally and side-by-side.
tiles have grown to become a popular feature
appearance. However, new layouts are
in kitchens and bathrooms around the world.
challenging this mold with vertical designs,
Of course, the standard 3- by 6-in. format
textured tiles and other trendy variations such
will never go out of style, but the industry is finding new and interesting ways to re-imagine this timeless look (see Figure 2). The new subway tile has emerged as an alternative design solution for kitchen backsplashes with elongated formats, funky shapes, textured surfaces and creative installation patterns. Typically laid in the traditional brick pattern, subway tiles have a very characteristic
as chevron and herringbone (see Figure 3).
Subway tiles are also straying from the standard glossy look, with 3-D structures, matte or satin finishes, and textured surfaces. Each of these variations, whether subtle or dramatic, offers a fresh take on this timeless iconic look. 3. Mixed Mosaics Another staple of kitchen design, mosaic
backsplashes are here to stay. In particular,
mixed mosaics are a great option for adding visual interest with a varied assortment of
colors, effects and configurations in the form of one easy-to-install sheet.
This technique can be especially helpful for
adding detail to larger spaces. A mosaic can effectively break up oversized backsplashes with a random mix of stone-effect shades ranging from light to dark (see Figure 4).
Another way to mix it up with a backsplash installation is to select a mosaic sheet that
Figure 4 – Sichenia’s “Chateaux” mosaic effectively breaks up this oversized backsplash with a random mix of stone-effect shades ranging from light to dark. Figure 5 – Other ways to switch up backsplashes using mixed mosaics are by using mosaic sheets that feature individual pieces in random colors, such as with Edilcuoghi “Absolute” (left), or alternating directions, as seen with Mosaico+’s “Jointed” collection (right) that are varied in shading and layout pattern.
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 35
Figure 6 – Typically limited to a compact area, a backsplash presents the opportunity to experiment with playful tile formats. An entire room of Naxos’ “Shiny” diamond mosaic might be overwhelming, but the same tiles can speak volumes when executed on a smaller scale. Figure 8 – Patchwork tile trends have changed to simple geometric shapes and muted color palettes, such as the triangular Elios Ceramica’s “DecoAnthology” decor (left) and Sant’Agostino’s “Waystone” look (right) with an understated color palette, but a random pattern of geometric shapes.
4. Playful Formats
modern makeover, and it’s taking over kitchen
Standard square tiles rely on patterns and bright
design. The colorful, ornate patterns typical
when paired with otherwise sleek and simple
geometric shapes and muted color palettes for
shapes and striking formats can become the focal
geometric patchwork tile interpretations for
colors to make a bold design statement. But
of this classic style are replaced with simple
kitchen surfaces, a tile installation with intriguing
a stripped-down, contemporary look. Popular
point of a space. Typically limited to a compact
backsplashes include simplified patterns, with
area behind the kitchen countertop, a backsplash presents the perfect opportunity to experiment with playful tile formats. An entire room of bold Figure 7 – Many mosaic shapes and sizes are available today, including triangles, diamonds, hexagons, scallops, and even intricate geometric mosaics like Mosaico+’s “Diamond” collection.
diamond mosaic might be overwhelming, but the
features individual pieces in alternating
shapes and sizes available today – including
directions. Some collections have smaller chips varied in shading and in their layout patterns (see Figure 5).
Any way you cut it, mixed-up mosaics offer an easy way to create a trendy, intricate backsplash design.
36 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
same tiles can speak volumes when executed on a smaller scale (see Figure 6).
Some kitchens call for more than just a
standard shape iterations in monochromatic shades, or randomized geometric shapes to add visual interest (see Figure 8). This updated geometric patchwork trend is a stylish way to create a fresh, modern design with vintage roots.
standard backsplash, and with the many
About the Author
triangles, diamonds, hexagons, scallops, and
Ceramics of Italy is the trademark for more than 100 Italian manufacturers of ceramic tiles, sanitaryware and tableware that are members of Confindustria Ceramica. For more information visit ceramica.info or follow Ceramics of Italy on Facebook (@CeramicsOfItalyNA), YouTube (@ LaCeramicaItaliana), or Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram (@CeramicsOfItaly).
even intricate geometric mosaics (see Figure 7) – designers can finally pursue more playful tile installations.
5. Geometric Patchwork Traditional patchwork tiles have undergone a
Here.Now.News. From the Desk of Amy Miller, Executive Director
In the Weeds Last weekend my husband and I spent Saturday
morning doing yard work. He mowed and spread fresh mulch. I trimmed, pruned and pulled out
weeds in our flower beds. As I worked through
the landscaping, I was amazed (and appalled) at
The key is that we need to weed the loop to change our habits and change our lives.
“The difference between who you are and who
you want to be is what you do.” — Charles Duhigg
the size and strength of some of the weeds! Some
2. Prune. If we want better habits, we need to
did things get so out of control?
stimulates growth and health of the plant by
were 8 to 10 inches tall with crazy deep roots. How As I moved from bed to bed pulling weeds, I
reflected on how similar gardening is to habit building.
prune (cut back) on excess. In gardening, pruning removing overgrowth. In our habits, and in life,
we need to prune time spent on activities that are weighing us down and stunting our growth. In
other words, we need to remove activities, tasks
Habits, much like the plants in a garden, can be
and events from our calendar that reduce the
planted intentionally through hard work and
that are truly helping us to blossom and grow.
both good and bad. Some of our habits were
discipline. These purposeful and productive habits produce a bountiful harvest of beautiful things. Alternately, some of our habits grow without
intent, and much like weeds, are undesirable and unwanted. Additionally, our habits become more
difficult to remove the longer we allow them to take root. With this in mind, how do we cultivate the
habits we desire, and avoid the ones we don’t? To cultivate the right habits, I believe we need to
amount of time we have available for the habits 3. Water. A popular meme circulating on social media platforms states,
“Don’t forget to drink water and get sunlight. You’re
basically a houseplant with complicated emotions.” Funny as it is, it also rings true. If we want to be
our best selves, we need to pay attention to our habits and give them the attention they need to
thrive. In the book The Compound Effect, author
do three things: Weed, Prune and Water.
Darren Hardy explains that the trajectory of our
1. Weed. We each need to weed out the activities,
insignificant decision we make. If we want to
people and thoughts that trigger our less-
desirable habits. For example, watching TV in
the evening can lead to eating ice cream, chips or other unhealthy snacks. In his best-selling
book, The Power of Habit, author Charles Duhigg
entire lives is determined by each seemingly
change our lives for the better, we need to pay attention to our smallest decisions and habits
because these small decisions, compounded over time, determine our future outcomes.
refers to this habit cycle as a three-part loop.
As we navigate the 3rd quarter of this year, I hope
(eating unhealthy snacks), which trigger a reward
areas that you wish to grow. If you do, I’m sure
change our negative habits, we need to “weed”
To Your Success,
We have cues (watching TV) that trigger routines
you’ll remember to weed, prune and water those
(temporary satisfaction.) According to Duhigg, to
you’ll have a bountiful harvest.
the loop. In the example above, we could do so by changing either the cue (watching TV) or the
routine (eating unhealthy snacks.) Changing the
cue could be choosing an alternative activity like book reading or going for a walk. Changing the
Amy Miller
snack, drinking a healthy tea or probiotic beverage.
AmyM@isfanow.org
routine could be instead of eating an unhealthy
ISFA Executive Director
ISFA Events & Training
For additional information and registration options, please visit www.isfanow.org, or email amym@isfanow.org. Personalized training options are also available. Email carol@isfanow.org for more information.
Industry Roundtable Hosted by Precision Countertops Sponsored by Crossville, Daltile, Kohler and Moraware Sept. 17 – 19 Portland, Ore. Solid Surface Training Sponsored by Regent Stone Hosted by GECKO SSS Oct. 7 – 9 San Antonio, Texas ISFA 2019 Annual Conference Sponsored by GranQuartz, Crossville, BACA Systems, Cosentino, Gemstone, Infinity Surfaces, Integra Adhesives and Park Industries Oct. 20 – 23 Scottsdale, Ariz. Industry Roundtable Hosted by MSI Sponsored by MSI and Park Industries Nov. 12 – 14 Tampa, Fla. Industry Roundtable Hosted by INDEKO Sponsored by CMS North America Dec. 3 – 5 Guadalajara, Mexico International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 37
ISFANews Next Industry Roundtable Event Slated for September 17 to 19 in Portland, Ore. Registration open now, event filling up quickly After holding three sold-out Industry Roundtable Events, ISFA is gearing up for the next one, which will be hosted by world-class ISFA Fabricator Member Precision Countertops and is sponsored by Crossville, Daltile, GranQuartz and Moraware. The event, slated for Sept. 17 to 19 in Portland, Ore., will provide numerous opportunities for industry professionals to learn, share and network with their peers. Additionally, attendees will have an opportunity to check out the large, modern production facility of Precision Countertops, which features advanced automation and has developed a successful strategy for profitably working with big box stores.
Sell it to the employees? A professional speaker will offer practical advice regarding what to do now to prepare for a future exit, and how to evaluate exit options. Additionally, there will be a discussion on how best to utilize Moraware, and Crossville will be sharing the ins and outs of their product role in the market. For more information or to register, visit www.isfanow.org or contact the ISFA office by phone at (412) 487-3207 or email info@isfanow.org. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:
The event will also feature a speaker covering the topic of “Exit Strategies – What is Your End Game?” In the end, every owner has to decide what to do with their business when the time comes: Sell to an outside party? Hand it down to the next generation?
ISFA Booster Club
There Are Two More Chances to Attend ISFA Industry Roundtables If you are interested in attending one of the ISFA Industry Roundtable Events, in addition to the one in Portland, Ore., there are two more opportunities to do so: ■■ Nov. 12 to 14 in Tampa, Fla., hosted by MSI and sponsored by MSI and Park Industries
■■ Dec. 3 to 5 in Guadalajara, Mexico, hosted by INDEKO and sponsored by CMS North America For more information about these events or to register, visit www.isfanow. org, or contact Amy Miller at amym@isfanow.org. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:
ISFA Gen 2 Members Gather in Michigan The Future is in good hands. ISFA Gen 2 members gathered June 4 to 6 at the Cosentino Center in Detroit for a full day of education and networking. The group embodied the spirit of ISFA, candidly sharing best practices and challenging one another to push through boundaries. They even opened and shared their Moraware sessions to work on implementing new ideas in the moment. The great day culminated with a fun evening outing to the Detroit Tigers game. If you are a Gen 2 Leader that has taken over the family business, or are in the process of doing so, it’s not too late to join the group. We have a Gen 2 book club, monthly call and additional events planned. If you’d like to be a part of it, contact ISFA Executive Director Amy Miller at amym@isfanow.org. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR GEN 2 SPONSORS:
Thank you to our ISFA 2020 Booster Club Members!
The ISFA 2020 Booster Club is a new program comprised of ISFA members committed to growing ISFA membership, benefits and programs. Each Booster Club Member makes a financial contribution to ISFA, and each participates in a quarterly conference. The quarterly calls are led by ISFA Executive Director Amy Miller and ISFA Board President Augie Chavez. During the call new ideas for projects and programs to benefit ISFA members and the industry are discussed, as well as timelines for implementation. Those interested in being a part of the ISFA Booster Club can contact Amy Miller for more information at amym@isfanow.org.
38 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 38
ISFANews Join us for the 2019 ISFA Annual Meeting & Conference at the beautiful Mountain Shadows Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz. Here are just a few of the activities planned: ■■ Two Keynote Speaker Sessions—Famed Solid Surface Designer and Digital Fabrication Specialist
October 20-23, 2019 Join us to improve your business, make new connections and enjoy yourself! PRESENTING SPONSORS
Mario Romano of M.R. Walls and Employee Engagement and Retention Specialist Lisa Ryan, CSP, of Grategy
■■ Panel Discussion on Modern Surfaces ■■ Roundtable Discussions ■■ New Product Round-Up with Conference Specials ■■ Italian Chef Dinner/Wine Tasting hosted by
Galleria of Stone
■■ Golf Scramble ■■ Awards Banquet ■■ Pedal Bar Tour of Downtown Scottsdale OTHER SPONSORS
Your Conference Ticket Includes: ■■ Three nights’ accommodations at the Mountain Shadows Resort in the heart of Paradise Valley ■■ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & evening Cocktails each day ■■ Speakers & Educational Sessions ■■ Golf Scramble at The Short Course, Mountain Shadows ■■ Dinner/Wine Tasting at Galleria of Stone ■■ Awards Reception/Annual Meeting ■■ Pedal Bar Rental in Downtown Scottsdale (Attendees are responsible for purchases made during the excursion)
REGISTER ONLINE
at www.isfanow.org under the Events/Annual Meeting menu now through Sept. 15 to reserve your spot! International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3• 39
ISFANews Nominations for ISFA Awards Now Open Nominations for the 2019 ISFA Awards are now open to ISFA members only.
These annual awards are given to those
in the industry that stand out as the very best. Only ISFA members are eligible for nomination except for the ISFA Hall of
Fame. The award categories are as follows: The Fabricator of the Year Award is
best exemplified the ISFA ideals of quality,
ISFA President Augie Chavez (left) and ISFA Executive Director Amy Miller present the 2018 Fabricator of the Year Award to Omar Salazar, who accepted on behalf of Rockin’teriors.
service to ISFA and/or the decorative
The Envision Award is given to the
awarded to an individual of a fabricator
member company that in the past year has innovation, character and exemplary
surfacing industry, with overall excellence. The Innovator Award is for the member firm or individual who goes outside the box to create a product or system that
enhances the life or elevates the role of the surface fabricator.
The Associate of the Year Award is given to an associate member company that in
the past year has best exemplified the role
manufacturer member that excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry.
The ISFA Hall of Fame Award is given to
the individual who has, in the course of his/
her career, made significant contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and has
demonstrated leadership and commitment to the ideals of ISFA.
of servicing the needs of fabricator member
For more information or to make a
ISFA in all activities.
www.isfanow.org/isfa-awards.
companies, and who has best supported
nomination, visit the ISFA website at
ISFA Awards Mike Nolan Scholarship ISFA is pleased to announce the recipient of
avenue moving forward with my business as
Coradi of Coraopolis, Pa. He was awarded
jobs like remodeling houses,” explained Coradi
the 2019 Mike Nolan Scholarship Fund: Caleb $1,200 to use toward his education in the trades. A young entrepreneur, after graduating high
school Coradi turned a part-time job mowing lawns into a subcontracting business in the
property preservation industry. After less than a year, his hard work and dedication earned
a subcontractor and be able to do the bigger
about his future plans. “There are many goals I wish to accomplish that this program will help me with. I know that once I acquire carpentry and construction skills, I can educate others
and bring integrity and creative new looks to people’s homes.”
him two promotions and a coordinator position
The scholarship was established in recognition
his own business as a subcontractor, not just
and owned various solid surface companies,
for the company. His ambition led him to start running a mowing crew, but taking care of a variety of properties in whatever manner his skills allowed. However, having reached the
limits of his self-taught abilities, Coradi decided to pursue a career in carpentry so he could expand into home repair and remodeling.
of Mike Nolan, an industry icon who worked at
served six years on the ISFA Board of Directors and revamped ISFA’s solid surface training
programs as the ISFA Director of Education.
He passed in 2014, and in his honor, his wife Terry Kromke-Nolan set up the Mike Nolan Scholarship Fund.
As such, he will use the scholarship funds to
For more information, visit www.isfanow.
Carpentry program. “I want to go down a new
scholarship.
help him pay for an education in Triangle Tech’s
org or email www.isfanow.org/mike-nolan-
ISFA Board of Directors Augie Chavez President GECKO SSS 4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 (210) 227-3100 augie@geckosss.com www.geckosss.com
Kate Dillenburg Immediate Past President and Secretary Bisley Fabrication 7000 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 (715) 787-4410 kdillenburg@bisfab.com www.bisfab.com Paul “Max” Le Pera Vice President Global Surfacing Alliance 106 Melrich Rd. Cranbury, NJ 08512 (908) 358-5252 pmlp33@gmail.com
Mike Langenderfer Treasurer The Countertop Shop 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 (419) 868-9101 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net Adam Albee Director Counter Culture 5012 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 (500) 531-5078 adam@thetopculture.com www.thetopculture.com
Matt Kraft Director Custom Marble Inc. 850 S. Mulberry Millstadt, IL 62260 matt.kraft@custommarble.net www.custommarble.net Steve Stoddard Director Advanced Surfaces, Inc. 130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 (814) 663-0369
sstoddard@advanced surfacespa.com www.advancedsurfacespa.com Kelley Montana Director Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing 70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-5918 kmontana@humtop.com www.humtop.com
Steve Mast Director Precision Countertops 26200 S.W. 95th Ave. Ste. 303 Wilsonville, OR 97070 (503) 660-3023 Steve.m@precisioncountertops.com www.precisioncountertops.com Austin Maxwell Director Maxwell Countertops 324 S. Plum St. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2848 austin@maxwellcounters.com www.maxwellcounters.com
Eric Tryon Director Clio Holdings/Premier Surfaces 845 McFarland Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30004 (470) 419-4555 tryonea@gmail.com www.clioholdings.com
Jim Callaghan Associate Member Representative 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 Contacts ISFA PO Box 627 Ingomar, PA 15127 (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org Executive Director Amy Miller (567) 239-2102 amym@isfanow.org Communications Director Kevin Cole Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor (815) 721-1507 kevin@isfanow.org Operations Manager Carol Wilhite (888) 599-ISFA carol@isfanow.org
Account Representative Paul Wisnefski (262) 498-4184 wisnefski@sbcglobal.net Program Coordinator Amy Kyriazis (888) 599-ISFA 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
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 40
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
The Countertop Factory
Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc.
Ravenswood Studio Inc.
117 Cloverdale Dr. Alabaster, AL 35007 205-624-3538 www.cutstoneco.com
COLORADO
Heft Enterprises
Solid Surface Creations Inc.
Premier Surfaces
Stalwart Systems
Stone Center
Stonecrafters
HAWAII
The Countertop Factory Midwest***
Cutstone Co.
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
La Casa Bella Builders 401 N. Broad St. Globe, AZ 85501 928-425-2450 LCBbuilders.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
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
Pacifica Wholesale Tile and Stone
620 E. Ball Rd. Anaheim, CA 92805 310-497-3511 www.pacificastone.com
Quarry House Inc.
217 San Anselmo Ave. San Anselmo, CA 90205 415-482-9094 www.quarryhouseinc.com
2470 E. Coronado St. Anaheim, CA 92806 562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net
The Top Shop Inc. 3300 E. 43rd Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-996-6026 www.tshopinc.com
DELAWARE
Troy Granite Inc.
711 Interchange Blvd. Newark, DE 19711 302-292-1750 www.troygranite.com
FLORIDA
Beverin Solid Surface 1108 Palmetto Ave. Lehigh Acres, FL 33972 239-368-9444 www.beverin.com
2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com 9138 Wheat St. Covington, GA 30014 678-342-9400 www.heftcabinets.com
845 McFarland Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-614-7111 www.premiersurfaces.com 1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com
Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc.
Delorie Countertops & Doors Inc.
1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775
Mill-Rite Woodworking Co.
94-117 Malakeke Pl. Unit 102 Waipahu, HI 96797 808-200-7868 www.montage-decor.com
2140 N.W. 18th St. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-970-7661 www.deloriectd.com 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
GEORGIA
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
41 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Montage Decor LLC
ILLINOIS
4-D Construction of IL, Inc. 1107 E. Cemetery Ave. Chenoa, IL 61726 815-867-2196 www.4-Dconstruction.com
Custom Marble Inc.*** PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net
Marble Works
1601 N. LA Fox South Elgin, IL 60177 874-742-9222 www.marble-works.com
Maxwell Counters Inc.
PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61824 309-928-2848 www.maxwellcounters.com
New Age Surfaces 1237 Naperville Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-226-0011
Pierce Laminated Products Inc. 2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com
6900 North Central Park Ave. Lincolnwood, IL 60712 707-334-6851 www.ravenswoodstudio.com 403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com
7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-1193 www.stalwartsystemsusa.com 430 W. Wegner Rd. Lakemoor, IL 60051 815-363-8730 www.stonecrafters.com
869 S. Rte. 53 Addison, IL 60101 630-606-8055 www.tcfmidwest.com
INDIANA
A. I. A. Countertops LLC 201 S. Huntington St. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com
Hartson-Kennedy Cabinet Top Co., Inc. 522 W. 22nd St. Marion, IN 46953 800-388-8144 www.hartson-kennedy.com
Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.
711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401 812-824-6299 www.rakesolutions.com
IOWA
Solid Fabrications Inc. 2515 Murray St. Sioux City, IA 51111 712-255-5319 www.solidfab.com
StoneHouse Quartz & Granite
3901 100th St. Urbandale, IA 50322 515-512-5188 www.stonehousegranite.com
VT Industries
1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com
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. KENTUCKY
Granite America
1121 St. Louis Ave. Louisville, KY 40241 502-419-0713
Louisville Lumber & Millwork 1400 Lincoln Ave. Louisville, KY 40213 502-459-8710 www.louisvillelumber.com
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
Bangor Wholesale Laminates 355 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, ME 04401 207-945-5928
Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.
Lycos, Inc.
Marker Systems Inc.
MICHIGAN
Stone Concepts, Inc.
Modern Home Distributing
1079 N. Montello St. Brockton, MA 02301 508-894-6999 www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com
Hard Rock Stone Works
44038 Phoenix Dr. Lake Orion, MI 48362 586-532-7763 www.hardrocstoneworks.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
MINNESOTA
Innovative Surfaces Inc.
Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.
515 Spiral Blvd. Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004
MARYLAND
119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com
11 Collins Pond Rd. Windham, ME 04062 207-893-3445 www.getshad.com
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.
Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund
6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111
NEW HAMPSHIRE Rumford Stone Inc.
278 River Rd. Bow, NH 03304 603-224-9876 www.rumfordstone.com
NEW JERSEY Marvic Corp.
MISSISSIPPI
1136 Industrial Pkwy. Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com
Alexander Counterwrights
3803 Old Mobile Ave. Pascagoula, MS 39581 228-938-6484 www.alexandercounter wrights.com
MISSOURI
Spaulding Fabricators Inc.
NEW MEXICO
American Countertops PO Box 10482 Albuquerque, NM 87184 505-897-3141 www.americancountertops online.com
Premier Surfaces
Jaynes Structures
MONTANA
OGB Architectural Millwork
505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com
BMC
3200 Hwy. 12 E. Helena, MT 59602 406-444-8721 www.buildwithBMC.com
Jack’s Custom Woodworking/ NEBRASKA Counter Culture JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com
5012 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 500-531-5078 www.thetopculture.com
Sterling Surfaces
Lincoln Laminating Inc.
76 Leominster Rd. Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-3321 www.sterlingsurfaces.com
NEVADA
The Pinske Edge
4525 N.W. 41st St. Ste. 400 Kansas City, MO 64150 816-767-2075 www.premiersurfaces.com
MASSACHUSETTS
10802 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 865-523-0967 www.stoneconceptsomaha.com
2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com
54 Wilmon St. Chesapeake City, MD 20705 410-885-5960 www.modcoinc.com
SolidTops LLC
2445 Deer Park Blvd. Omaha, NE 68105 402-201-2283 www.lycosfinish.com
5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009 www.lincolnlaminating.com
42 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
2906 Broadway N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87107 505-344-8589 www.jaynescorp.com
3711 Paseo del Norte Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-998-0000 www.ogb-am.com
940 River Rd. North Tonawanda, NY 14120 716-695-1102
PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523
Penn Fabricators Inc. 30 Platinum Ct. Medford, NY 11763 631-205-0282 www.pennforcorian.com
NORTH CAROLINA Atlantic Countertops
4250 Old Wake Forrest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27613 919-981-0163 www.atlanticcountertops.com
A Top Above The Rest 121 Wilkie St. Forest City, NC 28043 828-382-0174
BloomDay Granite & Marble 3810 Indiana Ave. Winston-Salem, NC 27105 336-414-0842 www.bloomdaygranite.com
Carolina Custom Surfaces*** 100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 336-215-5518 www.carolinacustom surfaces.com
Carolina Stoneworx LLC 8313 Poole Rd. Knightdale, NC 27545 919-266-1011 www.carolinastoneworx.com
Coastal Countertops & Tile
1117 N. 20th St. Morehead City, NC 28557 252-247-0015 www.coastalcountertopsnc.com
Majestic Kitchen & Bath 104 Jeffrey Way Youngsville, NC 27596 919-376-5941 www.gomajestic.com
NEW YORK
Metro Woodcrafters of NC, Inc.
8 Commercial Park Dr. Wilton, NY 12831 518-857-9720 www.graniteandmarbleworks.com
Onslow Stoneworks
Granite and Marble Works Inc.
JG Associates
PO Box 14 Pt. Lookout, NY 11569 516-897-9200
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
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. 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
Precision Countertops Inc.*** PO Box 387 Wilsonville, OR 97070 503-692-6660 www.precisioncountertops.com
PENNSYLVANIA ASST
350 South St. McSherrystown, PA 17344 717-630-1251 www.asst.com
Advanced Surfaces Inc. 130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 814-663-0369
SOUTH DAKOTA
Eframe Asrat
45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com
Gecko Solid Surface Solutions***
DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co.
4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 210-227-3100 www.geckosss.com
TENNESSEE
Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.
1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626 www.alexandermarble andgranite.com
Cutting Edge Countertops Inc. Eastern Surfaces
Countertops of Memphis
L. E. Smith Co.***
Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.
1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com 1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com
Laminate Shop, Inc. PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536
The Countertop Shop LTD*** 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net
Top Advantage Surfaces Inc. 12989 Market Ave. N. Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-2138 www.topadvantage.com
Top Designs Inc.
1700 Wall Rd. Wadsworth, OH 44281 330-334-5677 www.topdesignsinc.com
Top Shelf Laminated Products 400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289
Tower Industries
2101 Ninth St. S.W. Massillon, OH 44647 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com
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
Kauffman Kitchens
270 Commerce Dr. New Holland, PA 17557 717-355-9906 www.kauffmankitchen.com
Kramer’s Fabrications Inc. PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com
Pence Countertops Inc.
124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609 www.pencecountertops.com
Pittsburgh Troy Granite
OREGON
1060 484 Lowries Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-446-1060 www.troygranite.com
10100 S.W. Herman Rd. Tualatin, OR 97062 503-850-2496
Custom Architectural Solutions LLC (CAS)
Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
Oregon State University 601 S.W. 35th St. Corvallis, OR 97333 www.oregonstate.edu
SOUTH CAROLINA 218 Willowgreen Way Greer, SC 29651 864-501-9555 www.casgroups.com
6807 Miller Shadow Sugarland, TX 77479 713-530-3673
301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis TN 38106 901-602-7115 www.countertopsofmemphis.com 919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 615-915-0718 www.creativecountersolutions.com
Kitchen Tops Inc.
1300 Ault Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914 865-523-0967 www.kitchentops.net
Gunckel Architectural Stoneworks, LLC 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
Off Grid Builds
PO Box 22 Barksdale, TX 78828 830-834-9878 offgridbuilds.lilserengeti.com
True Blue Granite
3626 Binz Engleman Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 210-281-5520 www.tbgranite.com
W.R. Watson Inc.
TEXAS
Alpha Granite
915 W. Howard Ln. Austin, TX 78753 505-814-5354 www.alphagraniteaustin.com
Cirrus Asset Management 5347 Spring Valley Rd. Dallas, TX 75254 661-857-0722 www.cirrusami.com
Classic Counter Tops 2325 Executive Dr. Garland, TX 75041 972-840-1234
Counterscapes, Inc.
2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676 www.counterscapes.com
Countertop Solutions LLC PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080
12902 Mula Ln. Stafford, TX 77477 281-495-3664 www.wrwatson.com
UTAH
Plastic Specialties Inc. 1640 S. Redwood Rd. Salt Lake City, UT 84104 801-746-1212 www.psitops.com
Valley View Granite
905 N. 2000 W. Tremont, UT 84337 435-452-1570 www.valleyviewgranite.com
VERMONT
Vermont Solid Surface
PO Box 602 852 Portland St. St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 802-535-4986 www.vermontsolidsurface.com
VIRGINIA
Ellis Page Co., LLC
921 Morton St. Mineral Wells, TX 76067 206-898-8163
10481 Colonel Ct. Manassas, VA 20110 703-346-9404 www.ellispageco.com
206 Allison Dr. Taylor, TX 76574 512-595-8054 www.durcon.com
9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com
Dirk Foster
Durcon
Metro Stone Works LLC
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 43
Fabricator Directory
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html. Mid Atlantic Surfaces
WISCONSIN
Surface Link Corp.
700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 800-424-7539 www.bisleyfabrication.com
TRINDCO
3142 W. Mill Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-352-7870 www.kopfmanntops.com
WASHINGTON
420 Generac Way Jefferson, WI 53549 262-593-2456 www.mcdermotttopshop.com
2559 Turkey Creek Rd. Oilville, VA 23129 804-798-7462 www.midatlanticsurfaces.com 4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com 1004 Obici Industrial Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23434 757-539-0262 www.trindco.com
FloForm Countertops 22445 76th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 253-639-4567 www.floform.com
King County Library System 960 Newport Way N.W. Issaqua, WA 98027 425-369-3300 www.kcls.org
Bisley Fabrication Inc.***
The Kopfmann Co. Inc.
McDermott Top Shop LLC
CANADA
Elite Food Equipment 4 Fielding Ct. Ajax, ON L1T 4W5 Canada
FloForm Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada 204-474-2334 www.floform.com
FloForm Countertops 10-710 Cynthia St. Saskatoon, SK S7l 6A2 Canada 306-665-7733 www.floform.com
FloForm Countertops 7630 Yellowhead Trail Edmonton, AB T5B 1G3 Canada 780-474-7999 www.floform.com
PF Custom Countertops Ltd. 14017 174 St. N.W. Edmonton, AB T5S 1H1 Canada 780-484-0831 www.pfcustom countertops.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
FRANCE
CREA Diffusion
ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com
INDIA
Infini Hybrid Pvt Ltd
904, Bwing, Kanakia Western Edge II, Western Highway Borivali East Mumbia 400066 Maharashtra India +91-966-464-1442 www.infinihybrid.com
ITALY
Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)
Via Dell’Industria 13-15 Piovene Rocchette, VI, 36013 Italy 39-0445-551500 www.legnopan.com
MEXICO
INDEKO***
Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 52-3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #17 ISFA Member since 2013 44 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
All ISFA Fabricator Members are listed in the Fabricator Directory of every issue of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces. Visit www.ISFAnow.org for more information or to sign up for membership.
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
Product News It allows for easy manual orthogonal stone cutting with the blade in any direction at any desired angle without generating a program. The machine uses Alphacam, an intelligent, flexible and intuitive CAD/CAM software. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #31
LG Hausys Offers New Viatera Colors LG Hausys introduced six new Viatera
quartz colors to its Masterpiece and Musica Collections, from light and airy to dark and dramatic. Two new colors were added to
the Masterpiece Collection: Mica, a highly reflective crystalline surface; and Umbra,
with dark, linear veining and a muted gray
background. The Musica Collection gained
four new designs: Dolce, with creamy threads gently play across a luminous backdrop;
Melody features muted dark beige capillaries
that rise and fall across a cream-hued canvas. Tenor (pictured here) has vibrant threads that ring out across a cool taupe surface. Bass is
a soulful symphony of deep velvety hues. It is
available in jumbo size, 63 by 130 in. (2cm and
LOTTE Advance Materials Unveils New Radianz Quartz Colors LOTTE Advanced Materials introduced a wide array of new colors to its Radianz Quartz Cirrus Collection, ranging from a rustic concrete finish to white aesthetics. Inspired by high-altitude sweeping clouds, the Cirrus collection features dynamic, flowing patterns. The new colors are: Calacatta Venatino, Calacatta Verona, Calacatta Veneto, Divine, Halo, Interstellar, Pluto, Rapture, Vega, Cadiz, Ceres, Charcoal, Contrail, Modern, Starlight, Urban, Marquina Lavagna and Spa Black. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #32
3cm thicknesses).
job files for large, complex jobs more than 30 times faster, and small- to mid-sized jobs up to six times faster. The software is designed to be user-friendly and allow templators to easily create and send CNC-ready files directly from the jobsite without having to possess any CAD experience. It comes with every new LT-2D3D system, and customers currently using the software can upgrade to v528 for free by following the prompts on their tablet to download the new version. A list of all the new features and improvements to the software is available upon download. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #33
Wilsonart Launches Laminate, Quartz and Solid Surface Additions
The newest laminate collection from Wilsonart, Playful, is a fusion of colors and patterns that
create a unique pop to any space. It offers a way to customize and personalize home décor with youthful colors, lively patterns and a feeling of
lightheartedness, and includes: Bonaire, Fumed
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #30
Maple, Interlocked Maple, Interlocked Mint, Happy Dots (pictured here), Crimini Walnut, Birdseye
Birch, Grey Plywood, Natural Plywood, Cobalt Ash, Teal Ash and Lime Ash. Additionally, Wilsonart has
launched new quartz and solid surface collections.
The new Wilsonart® Quartz collection is nonporous
Park Industries Introduces SABERjet XP CNC SawJet Park Industries introduced the new SABERjet™
XP CNC SawJet. Built off of the success and compact design of the SABERjet™, the XP
powers up with a 27-hp saw arbor, which is specifically designed to cut ultra-compact
surfaces, quartzite and porcelain materials. This, paired with the new Hypertherm®
predictive maintenance 50-hp or 60-hp waterjet systems, provides superior processing speeds and shop efficiencies. The booster pump
maintains consistent supply line pressure to the waterjet pump of the SABERjet CNC SawJet.
LPI Upgrades Templator Software LPI has released Laser Templator v528, the latest version of its 2-D measuring and templating software program for its hardware counterpart LT-2D3D. The most notable improvement is the addition of a movement detection feature that will notify the user if the unit was rotated during a measurement capture, in which case an error message appears on the tablet instructing the user to recapture the last point. The update also includes improvements to features such as language translation, email and JobTracker, as well as some minor bug fixes. In January, LPI also released v526 which made opening and saving
and never needs to be sealed or polished, while
also resisting stains, mold and mildew. Available
in six new shades ranging from light, marble-like white to dark, basalt-inspired black and certified for commercial and consumer food safety, the
collection combines style and strength. The new Wilsonart® Solid Surface collection is
manufactured using state-of-the-art technology and available in 10 new shades, including
travertine-inspired styles and peaceful stone-
like surfaces. It is seamless, nonporous, stain-
resistant and customizable. It can be repaired or
renewed and requires no sealants, so it maintains its brilliance with little maintenance. All Wilsonart
solid surface and quartz are GREENGUARD Gold certified for low chemical emissions.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #34 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 45
Product News Braxton-Bragg Introduces Venom Blades & Core Bits The newest addition to the Braxton-Bragg Viper Brand is the Venom premium line
of blades and core bits, created with new
technology specifically designed to cut and
core quartzite, dense granite and other dense
Hyundai L&C USA Debuts New HanStone Quartz Unearthed Collection Made up of subtle, tonal shades from nature’s
and unique surfaces. The blades and core bits
palette, HanStone’s new Unearthed Collection
which they are designed. Black is for granite,
new colors: Storm, the deepest shade in the
surfaces, yellow denotes porcelain, and silver
movement; Terra has a deep, warm tone with
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #35
designed to be a snapshot of nature’s beauty.
are now color-coded to specify the material for
offers a true exploration of warmth with three
white is for quartzite, red cuts ultra compact
collection, has rich hues layered with quiet
is for marble.
subtle movement; and Coast is a warm hue As if forged from the earth, the products in
the Unearthed Collection feature HanStone’s
and slabs. Made of natural raw materials,
such as clays and feldspars, using sustainable compacting technologies, according to the
company, the sheets/slabs are 63.7 by 127.5
in. in size (1,620 by 3,240 mm) in thicknesses of ¼, ½ and ¾ in. thick (5.6mm, 12mm and 20mm, respectively). The material can be
used indoors or outdoors and is suitable for
countertops, flooring, backsplashes, door and cabinet cladding, and more. It is safe for food
contact, resistant to fire, heat and staining, and available in more than two dozen colors.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #38
exclusive new River Washed finish for a unique tactile experience.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #36
Rack Engineering Division Releases Vertical Slab Storage Units Rack Engineering Division released its Vertical
Domain Adds to Lexicon Sinks Product Line
Slab Storage Unit, which easily and safely
Domain Industries Inc. added three new
while being at your fingertips for viewing and
bathroom sinks to its product line of Lexicon Quartz Sinks. The three new models offer a
dual-mount rim providing the flexibility for both undermount and drop-in installations. They are available in five colors to blend into any decor: Black, White, Concrete, Beige and Mocha.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #37
LAMINAM Introduces XL Porcelain Line For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #18 • ISFA member since 2005 46 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
LAMINAM, an Italian producer of porcelain,
introduced its XL large size porcelain sheets
stores slabs of marble, stone or granite.
Materials can be stored in a high-density area showing to clientele. Built for slabs as large as
60 in. high and 144 in. long, it has up to 2,000lb. capacity per shelf. The 2-in.-wide shelves glide out easily and safely for easy access.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #39
Xiasil Launches New Stone and Stainless Steel Sealer Xiasil Incorporated launched SimpleCoat, a
sealer for both stone and stainless steel. It is made of a proprietary formula that is free of
chemical solvents, water, petroleum distillates,
BPA, parabens, phthalates, VOCs, fragrance or dyes. It is 100 percent nontoxic and food safe, and according to the company is easy to use requiring no curing time or special tools or techniques to apply. For metal surfaces, such as stainless steel, the sealant is designed to reduce streaking, help prevent fingerprints, aid in reducing corrosion and improves the overall shine and look of the surface. Its coverage rate amounts to 8 fl. oz. for 3,000 sq. ft. of natural stone and up to 7,000 sq. ft. of stainless steel. It is sold exclusively on Amazon.
encourages design trade professionals and homeowners to consider and explore new styles through Walker Zanger’s curated collection of natural stone, tile and wood products.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #40
Tenax Offers Fast Swap Magnetic Edgewheel System
WEHA Introduces New Anchor Machine, Stone Trolley The WEHA T-31 Anchor Machine does not require stone to be flipped over to cut Anchor Slots. Once the countertop or vanity is on the worktable, after the cutout and polish, simply put the T-31 Anchor machine inside the bowl, slide in the Anchor machine to the depth that you need, and make the anchor slot. This speeds up the time it takes to make the slots, reduces labor to flip the countertop, cuts down on handling the countertop, reducing the risk of breaking it.The anchor machine can also be used upside down to make anchor slots on top. For example, if the user cuts out a vanity or sink on a CNC machine with the top face down, before removing the top from the pods the machine can cut out the slots. If the top is completely polished, this would eliminate any need to put it on a worktable to cut slots. WEHA also has a Cut Stone Trolley that allows a back-friendly placement of workpieces. By tilting the side adjustable strut, users can store shorter workpieces. To keep the pull bar from getting in the way, it is hooked in an upright position when not in use. Features of the Cut Stone Trolley include: load capacity of 3,086 lbs; 46-in. height; 42-in. width; 48-in. length; two fixed and two locking swivel wheels with an 11-in. tire size; 2- by 1 ⅛-in. wood struts; and 22 ½-in. from floor to shelf.
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #42
Tenax has introduced a new fast swap magnetic polishing wheel system. This magnetic attachment allows users to swap the edge polishing wheel in a matter of seconds, increasing the productivity of machinery. It can be installed on any manufacturer’s edge polishing machine and allows the removal of the abrasives either from the front or the back of the machine with very few easy steps. The abrasives used are the same 6-in. top-quality W fine grain, guaranteed to work on every color of quartz and
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #41
Walker Zanger Debuts Kaleidoscope Collection Walker Zanger launched its colorful new Kaleidoscope collection of porcelain tile that pays homage to the experimental and playful spirit of post-modern design. Featuring geometric shapes in a pastel palette of matte pink, greens and blues, Kaleidoscope gives designers the ability to create playful, personalized patterns. The new collection is the first to debut under Walker Zanger’s new Design Realized campaign, which
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #19 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 47
Product News natural stone. It is available in grits of 120, 220, 400, 600, 800, 1200, 1500, 2,000 and 3,000. A 6-in. magnetic system aluminum attachment is sold separately. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #43
Neolith Expands Its ¾-in. Sintered Stone Collection Neolith® has added to its ¾-in. range of sintered stone. Newly introduced surfaces to the range include some of Neolith’s latest patterns, including metallic Sofia Cuprum, cementitious New York – New York and peaceful Just White. These new slabs bring the ¾-in. collection to 25 colors, making it one of the broadest
offerings available in this thickness. Sheets in ¾-in. thickness are available in 126- by 64-in. format and can be cut to size to meet project specifications. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #44
For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #46
Antolini Adds Python Black to Exclusive Collection Antolini added a new stone to its Exclusive Collection, Black Python. The latest addition has streams of ashen strokes that abound in quartzite. As contoured silhouettes protrude across its igneous surface, the patterns of Python Black vividly reinterpret the shapes of a python’s skin, providing bright, flowing and chaotic strokes that emerge from a uniform, black background. This natural stone is suitable for interior applications as well as outdoor structures. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #45
DuPont Unveils Smart Conference Table
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #20 48 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
including lighting, room shades and audio levels. Additionally, the Corian is durable and can withstand the wear of regular use. The table’s modular design makes collaboration space redesign a simple process, with no equipment or tools beyond the table to contend with. The product links DuPont’s strengths in the building and construction markets as well as in electronics to develop new products centered on providing full IoT solutions for the smart building space. By integrating various electronic functionalities directly into building materials, DuPont is creating a new class of connected products.
DuPont unveiled a first-of-its-kind Smart Conference Table, a complete communications solution for collaborative spaces, made using Corian® Solid Surface. Drawing inspiration from insights across the fields of manufacturing, technology and design, the table adds style, reduces clutter and improves collaboration. The conference table combines DuPont’s experience in the fields of technology and design, offering a complete collaboration solution with seamless conferencing and phone calls, as well as easy-touse controls for adjusting the room environment,
Task Lighting Improves sempriaLED Assembled Strip Lights Task Lighting upgraded the features of its sempriaLED Assembled Strip Lights to eliminate the “dot-dot-dot effect” found in many LED strip lights. The updated sempriaLED lights feature more diodes that together create a smoother, even bar of light to virtually eliminate the appearance of dots on countertop surfaces below the cabinet lights. The sempriaLED line of assembled strip lights have clean lines combined with advanced, high-tech functionality and topquality components. The lights are designed to be easy to connect and install, with the fixtures coming pre-assembled. Like other products under the Task Lighting brand, sempriaLED offers a Color Rendering Index above industry averages, achieving 90+ CRI on every fixture. The lights are rated for 50,000 hours. All sempriaLED fixtures are UL listed, assembled in the United States and carry a five-year warranty. For more info, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #47
Start Planning NOW to Attend These Upcoming Events! ISFA Events & Training For additional information and registration options, please visit www.isfanow.org, or email amym@ isfanow.org. Personalized training options are also available. Email carol@isfanow.org for more information. Industry Roundtable Hosted by Precision Countertops Sponsored by Crossville, Daltile, Kohler and Moraware Sept. 17 – 19 Portland, Ore. Solid Surface Training Sponsored by Regent Stone Hosted by GECKO SSS October 7 – 9 San Antonio, Texas ISFA 2019 Annual Conference Sponsored by BACA Systems, Cosentino, Crossville, GranQuartz, Infinity Surfaces, Gemstone, Integra Adhesives, and Park Industries Oct. 20 – 23 Scottsdale, Ariz. Industry Roundtable Hosted by MSI Sponsored by MSI and Park Industries Nov. 12 – 14 Tampa, Fla. Industry Roundtable Hosted by INDEKO Sponsored by CMS North America Dec. 3 – 5 Guadalajara, Mexico
Ad Index Name BACA Systems
Classifieds
RS # Page # 5
9
Beckart
11
18
Betterley Industries
16
33
CountertopResource.com 17
44
COHUI
21
49
Datile
24
19
DuPont Corian
10
17
ETemplate
14
21
1
2
Integra Adhesives
23
52
ISFA On-site Training
13
31
Karran
22
51
9
16
GlueWarehouse.com
Laser Products Industries (LPI) LG Hausys
3
5
Moraware
18
46
M.R. Walls
8
15
MSI
2
3
Park industries
4
7
QuickQuote
20
48
Quote Countertops
12
18
7
13
Regent Stone SATA
19
47
Water Treatment Solutions 15
23
Wilsonart
11
6
FOR SALE: Two (2) 2008
Becker Vacuum Pumps
Model VTLF250SK Came off of a Cosmec Conquest CNC. Both have recently been inspected and have replaced vanes. $3,500 EACH
Call (901) 614-0200 Ext. 3 or email billy@countertopsofmemphis.com
YOUR AD [could be here]
FABRICATORS! ISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment you would like to sell?
Looking to fill a key position? Why not submit a FREE classified ad?
That’s right, relevant classifieds in this
publication are free to ISFA fabricator members! Just send us the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest.
Email us today at editor@isfanow.org. For those of you who are not fabricator members, email kevin@isfanow.org or IN T E R N AT I O N A L SUR FAC E FA B R I C AT O R S AS S O C IAT IO N
call (815) 721-1507 to get a quote.
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #21 • ISFA members since 2015 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • 49
From the President From the Desk of Augie Chavez, ISFA President
Counters, Counters, Counters If you’re reading this article, chances are good
Having the right material at the right place at
Before Mr. and Mrs. Jones can sit and enjoy a
Tetris all day long. It may seem like a thankless
that you play a part in the countertop industry.
nice meal on their great new counters, a lot has to happen.
The beginning of the Jones’ counters start at
a manufacturing plant or at a quarry. The raw
materials are poured, mixed, layered or mined
the right time is a task in itself — try playing
job at times, but without these hard-working
people (distribution managers, forklift drivers, truck drivers, warehouse employees, office
personnel, etc.), material doesn’t get to where it needs to be.
to make sheet/slab goods. Depending on the
Once the material arrives at the fab shop (or
of days or a couple of weeks. In the case of
it is the beginning of its transformation from
type of material, this could happen in a couple natural stone, the excavated blocks are taken to a facility to be sliced to size and polished, and
may be resonated or have backing mesh added to them. Other materials require curing time.
This vital part of the countertop process is often overlooked by the end user. Manufacturers
have invested a lot of money to make slabs/
sheets ready for use. If you have not had the
opportunity to visit a manufacturing facility or a quarry, I highly recommend that you do. Many
manufacturers are glad to show you around and show off their facilities. It is truly impressive, and provides insight into the materials you probably work with every day.
Once the sheets/slabs are ready, there needs to be a place to store them. There are countless warehouses throughout the United States
that house these products. Some are owned by the manufacturers and others are run by independent distributors. Some are open
to the public and others just stock material.
as I like to say “where the magic happens”),
slab/sheet into art. However, well before the
material is offloaded, a lot has taken place at the shop itself. Countless hours and dollars have been spent by most shops to equip
themselves with the necessary machinery to
create art. Most fabricators have done their due diligence to seek out the equipment that works for them. Panel saws, table saws, v-groovers, bridge saws, CNC machines, edge polishing
equipment and other machinery can be found in most fab shops. Manufacturers of these
machines have spent a lot of time and money
to develop and bring to market the equipment that makes our lives easier. They continue to
come up with new and better machinery for the industry. Again, I encourage you to visit these manufacturers to see how their machines are
truly a giant part of the countertop picture.
all the other little things that make the system
own trucks and others utilize common carriers.
50 • Vol. 12 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association
No matter what part you play in the industry, it doesn’t work without you and your efforts. I’m sure there are other key parts of this process that I missed, but just know that you are all needed to make the industry run. I encourage everyone to acknowledge the other parts of this crazy machine by reaching out and thanking them for their part in helping us do our parts.
these machines shows in the end product. It is
somewhat predict what the need is going to be. shipped to the fabricators. Some use their
Mr. and Mrs. Jones most likely don’t realize how many hands have played a part in making their dream kitchen a reality, and that’s OK. We just want happy customers.
their workers take in developing and creating
With machines in place and material in hand,
Plus, there’s the logistic in getting the material
Finally, in a fab shop there is an army (sometimes an army of one), which takes the ball to the end zone. Estimators, schedulers, fabricators, installers and other personnel are all required to finish the countertop process.
made. The craftmanship and dedication that
These places are another key part to meeting
the clients’ needs. They have to inventory and
They provide the fabricator with the proper tools, blades, polishing pads, sandpaper, router bits and many other items that are used in the fabrication process. Many of these places have brick and mortar locations that not only sell, but warehouse their goods. They also have feet on the ground, the salespeople in the vans, that put in countless hours taking their wares to the fabricator. Without these, at times “lifesavers,” the process comes to a halt.
it’s still not quite go time at the shop. We need work. Tool suppliers, adhesives, abrasives, and any number of ancillary products and
consumables are a necessity in our industry.
Augie Chavez, ISFA President augie@geckosss.com
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #22 ISFA Member since 1998
For more information, go to isfanow.org/info and list RS #23
ISFA Member since 2003
