VOLUME 9 / ISSUE 4 • QUARTER 4, 2016 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95
Sinks Spotlight Page 26 A Look at the Top OSHA Violations of the Past Year Page 30 Sustainability in the Countertop Industry Goes Well Beyond Just Being Eco-friendly Page 34
Fabricator Profile Interfab focuses on fewer products but greater capabilities Page 38
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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, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 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, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 attention: Editor.
Photography/graphics provided by: Interfab, Don Sharpe/Country Image.
Contacting ISFA
Adam Albee, President Mell Hill, Immediate Past President Ryan Miller, Vice President Kate Dillenburg, Treasurer Erica Hussey, Secretary
Phone: (412) 487-3207 Fax: (412) 487-3269 editor@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org
About This Magazine Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in September. Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces are available at the nonmember “newsstand” price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces is also available by individual subscription at the following rates: ISFA nonmembers, one year (five issues) $30.00; ISFA members, one year free with every membership renewal. Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States. Call for details. To subscribe, call (412) 487-3207. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. 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 Gibsonia, 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 change to Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044.
4 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Magazine Credits Publisher & Editor: Kevin Cole Proofreader: Nancy Mueller-Truax Design: V2 Marketing Communications
ISFA Officers of the Board
ISFA Directors Mike Woods, Director Kelley Montana, Director John Hansen, Associate Member Representative Jessica McNaughton, Associate Member Representative
ISFA Staff Bryan Stannard, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Communications Director and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Carol Wilhite, Operations Manager Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative Amy Kyriazis, Program Manager Lynn West, Membership Coordinator
Cover Photo This kitchen/countertop at a private residence in the South of England was designed by Don Sharpe at Country Image and fabricated by Interfab from DuPont™ Corian® Deep Black Quartz solid surface. The countertop had to be made in a way that accommodated the double chrome strip assembly and LED lighting. Read more on Page 38.
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CONTENTS Features 26 Sinks Spotlight Examining the latest and greatest in sink offerings
from the industry
30 A Look at the Top OSHA Violations of the Past Year Ways to avoid being caught up in these safety issues 34 Sustainability in the Countertop Industry Goes Well Beyond Just Being Eco-friendly A holistic approach to making your shop sustainable
26
38 ISFA Fabricator Profile: Interfab Interfab focuses on doing fewer products with greater capabilities
Departments
8 From the Editor 10 From the President 12 From the Executive Director
30
14 Calendar of Events 16 Education Connection 20 Industry News 41 ISFA News 46 ISFA Fabricator Directory 50 Product News 57 Reader Service Form 58 Classifieds/Ad Index
34
38 6 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
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From the Editor From the desk of Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher, and ISFA Communications Director
Division, Diversity and Teamwork It is a rare occasion that I mention politics in
experiment that is our country. Here it doesn’t
think my personal opinions on the politics have
or what our parents did for a living or what
this editorial, or even in this publication. I don’t any place in a publication such as this, which
is designed to offer information for the benefit of those in the surfacing industries and allied fields. And, you can rest assured that I don’t mean to change my position on that now.
That said, though, the unusual circumstances surrounding the recent U.S. presidential election begs mention.
Many people found it difficult to really like
either of the candidates, which is probably
why one got the popular vote and the other won the electoral race. However, beyond
that, as election day drew closer, it began to
seem like we lived in a divided nation. Not just the usual, “I have my politics and you have
yours,” but a division on a much deeper level
beyond just surface politics, more rudimentary. And, well, it just didn’t seem right. I might not agree with who you voted for president, but I
couldn’t really care less. I also might not agree on your choice of sports teams or what is the
best way to fry chicken, but all of those things, in the big picture, mean little. It is the things we do agree on or those things that I know
nothing about that you may be able to share with me, that I care about.
Typically, as Americans, we can see beyond left and right, and we can understand that while we might not agree on some points, we are all a common people with a basic
set of beliefs that are founded on freedom,
democracy and working hard to achieve our
goals. What it isn’t about is drawing lines that separate us from one another.
As a country, we were founded on diversity. A place where people of different religious
beliefs, ethnicities and nationalities all came to practice their beliefs and their individual ways of life. And out of that rose this great
8 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
matter where our grandparents came from
church we attend, or even if we practice any
religion at all. As Americans we can celebrate
our diversity and let it be the thing that brings us together— the thing that makes us all Americans.
It is precisely because we live in such a great place where we are afforded our individual
freedoms and where we can choose our own
path that allows us all to get ahead. Diversity is a good thing, not a line in the sand.
As business managers and owners, you
should be taking advantage of the differences in people’s backgrounds to improve your
operations. Our country is made up of so many types of people who have been subject to
different environments and developed different beliefs, backgrounds, skill sets, mannerisms, values and even physical characteristics,
among many others. This is the product of the
melting pot that this country is. That means as individuals we all have diverse strengths and
weaknesses. And if your strength is leadership, which I hope it is, then you should be able to determine who performs better in what
may make a great salesperson, but those
same qualities might make for a really horrible saw operator.
That leads us to the concept of teamwork.
Harnessing all of those different perspectives
and individualities can put your company in a position for great success. It is basically the concept of using the right tool for the job.
There are many ways to get something done,
and the idea is to use the resources you have to do just that.
Beyond that, we have to keep in mind that not only are our employees and staff from diverse backgrounds, but so are our customers and
potential customers. Sales techniques that are the product of one set of personal qualities might work well with one type of customer,
whereas a customer with different ideas about how he or she wants to make a purchase may not find that same salesperson to be the one that appeals to him or her. The same can be said of designers or customer service reps,
etc. Once again, taking advantage of all of the different types of people when picking your
“team” can play a major role in your chances for success.
particular role. Subsequently, you can then
So, I won’t ask you whom you voted for, and
those characteristics in some cases) that lead
with my own beliefs. I’d much rather find the
play in your business.
from our commonalities, or those things that
hire people with the characteristics (or nurture
I won’t look for the things in you that conflict
them to be successful in whatever role they
things in people that draw us together either
Certainly the characteristics which make
someone great at templating may not be
the same ones that makes someone else a successful salesperson, machine operator,
designer, installer, spec rep, manager, etc. And
are different but are complementary. After all, that is the American way.
As always, I look forward to your feedback. Sincerely,
by having many types of people that you can bring into your business, you have numerous opportunities to find the right person for the
job at hand. The outgoing, talkative individual with a knack for empathy and reading people
Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org
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From the President From the Desk of Adam Albee, ISFA President, 2016
Reflections and Projections This year has been a bit of a wild ride for
me both as the president of ISFA and in the business for which I work. At one point, I
likened 2016 to riding a bull, and it took a
great support team to keep me from being bucked off.
So I’d like to start by thanking a few people that helped me a great deal this year.
First is Ryan Miller, the incoming ISFA
president. He was there every step of the
resource. ISFA would, without a doubt, not be where it is today without Kevin.
will be full of opportunity for fabricators and associate members to collaborate and
I’d like to thank past presidents Mell Hill and
learn from one another, and to find new and
final years of service on the ISFA Board of
and the consumer experience.
David Paxton who have completed their
Directors. Both have given a great deal to ISFA over their time as directors and terms serving
as president. I’m truly grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside both of them and look forward to doing so in the future.
innovative ways to improve their businesses
We will also continue our relationship with the AIA so that we may grow our CEU program. Kohler has been kind enough to offer funding to help us do so in 2017. This has proven to be a great resource for both our Associate and
way to provide support when it was needed,
Finally, to the ISFA staff, continuing board of
heated. His calm demeanor and extraordinary
you for your commitment to the association.
The list of ISFA events in the new year will
you in 2017. This year was absolutely amazing
surfacing industry. I’ve talked this year a lot
and a cool head when things seemed to get
leadership will most certainly help continue the success that ISFA has experienced this year. I’m truly excited for ISFA and the industry in 2017 with Ryan at the helm.
I’d also like to thank Bryan Stannard, the
new executive director of ISFA. He has been a fantastic addition to the ISFA team. His
proven ability to build relationships, guide the staff and provide new and innovative ways to increase the value of ISFA for members will
compliment Ryan’s strengths nicely. I have full confidence that together they will accomplish great things this year.
Kevin Cole, the communications director of
ISFA, also deserves thanks for his continued
directors and new board of directors, thank
I’m truly excited to be able to work with all of and I expect nothing less for next year.
ISFA China. The formation of ISFA China will
facilitating that engagement.
prove to be powerful and beneficial in the
future for both U.S. and Chinese members. I had the distinct pleasure of traveling to
Shanghai to make the relationship official
10 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
I can’t express enough how much I’ve gained both personally and professionally throughout the past few years once I made the commitment and decided to get involved with
ISFA China all run businesses that I would be
to see where the next turn takes us.
and hospitality. The founding members of
ISFA. It’s been an exciting ride and I can’t wait
proud to call my own, and I look forward to continuing to build upon our relationship.
Association (NBMDA) to provide a broader
provide everyone associated with ISFA a rich
and suppliers, and ISFA is a great conduit for
and also to experience their amazing culture
sideline any typical man. Kevin’s wealth of
have his finger on the pulse of the industry
about engagement. Next year there will be so many opportunities to engage with your peers
year was establishing our relationship with
ISFA is also working closely with the North
knowledge, keen intellect and ability to always
be rich with opportunities for everyone in the
Perhaps our biggest accomplishment this
tireless dedication to the organization even in the face of many challenges that would
Fabricator members.
American Building Materials Distribution network of members and additional
educational and networking opportunities for our members. The 2017 calendar of events
Adam Albee, ISFA President adam@lincolnlaminating.com
Circle RS#06 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2015
From the Executive Director From the Desk of Bryan Stannard, Executive Director
If You Could See What I Saw … A break from the day to day. Networking. Education. Peer interaction like no other. I’m talking about the 2016 ISFA Annual
Meeting that took place in November in
Cancun, Mexico. Everyone in attendance at
the meeting had the chance to speak and get to know members from China, Canada, the
to work and education, that was just one
Overall, the meeting was an event that was
Another aim was to honor ISFA members
takeaways that benefited our business lives
of the reasons this group came together.
who went out of their way to contribute to the
industry as a whole. Members had their votes heard as we awarded those amongst us who were deserving of such an honor.
We also heard about the challenges,
and problem solving from around the globe
discussed how the association can be a part
were all brought together for this event, and
it’s not often that you will be able to find this
sort of diverse knowledge in one place at the same time.
changes and successes of the past year and of the solutions, improvements and continued successes going forward. We saw new board members enter with eager anticipation and old ones depart with venerable wisdom.
Those in attendance not only had a floor
Plus, there was plenty of time to really get to
but they also had the chance to participate
surface. Dinners, cocktail events, networking
pass to this international cadre of experience, directly in educational sessions presented by several well-seasoned fabricators and
business owners, your peers, who know what they are saying because they have lived it. Companies that provide the industry with
the tools, equipment and materials like the
ones attendees use every day were also there to show everyone their latest and greatest
products, and help attendees stay informed on changes coming to our industry.
Although there was plenty of time dedicated
and were just plain good for the soul. Without
doubt, it would be difficult to have left without a return on your investment.
I also want to offer a special thank you and
UK, Mexico, Spain, Russia and, of course, the United States. Processes, procedures
worthwhile on pretty much every level with
know peers and associates, not just on the receptions were all integral to the Annual
Meeting & Conference. And, plenty of time was set aside for camaraderie beyond
call out to new friends and old. We couldn’t have done it without you, and I hope you
will all join us again for future events, for the benefit of everyone.
And lastly, for those who missed it, we hope
to see you at the 2017 meeting where you can experience the benefit that only an event such as this can offer. So watch for information about the next ISFA Annual Meeting &
Conference that will be released in the near future, and make sure to take advantage of the opportunity.
organized events. It’s hard not to really have a good time and get to know fellow attendees
in such an overwhelmingly splendid backdrop that was Cancun and the Hyatt Ziva all-
inclusive hotel with its beaches and palm trees, swimming pools and fine dining,
oases of libations, and shows and festivals.
And also a little time for intellectual pursuits or relaxation.
Bryan Stannard, ISFA Executive Director bryan@isfanow.org
It’s more than just learning how to be more profitable, saving money on the bottom line and getting great referrals and discounts. Call ISFA today and find out how to make your world a better place. (412) 487-3207 www.ISFAnow.org Circle RS#15 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. 12 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
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Calendar of Events Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) Jan. 10 – 12 Orlando, Fla. (877) 267-4662
ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training
Hosted by Regent Stone May 16 – 19
Virginia Beach, Va.
NAHB Int’l Builders Show (IBS) Jan. 10 – 12 Orlando, Fla. (800) 967-8619
(412) 487-3207
World of Concrete Jan. 16 – 20 Las Vegas, Nev. (866) 860-1983
Cologne, Germany
The Int’l Surface Event/StonExpo West Jan. 17 – 20 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 967-8619 Vitoria Stone Fair/Marmomacc Latin America Feb. 14 – 17 Espirito Santo, Brazil +55 273-434-0600 Park Industries Digital Stoneworking Expo Feb. 16 Austin, Texas (800) 328-2309 Xiamen Stone Fair 2017 March 6 – 9 Xiamen, Fujian, China +86 592-595-9691 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone March 7 – 10 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org ISFA CEO Roundtable March 28 – 30 San Antonio, Texas (412) 487-3207 info@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org 2017 MIA+BSI Convention April 1 – 4 Daytona Beach, Fla. (440) 250-9222 Coverings 2017 April 4 – 7 Orlando, Fla. (703) 539-5504 www.coverings.com East Coast Builders Conference May 4 – 5 Atlanta, Ga. (214) 566-8764 14 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
www.isfanow.org Interzum 2017 May 16 – 19
49 221-821-2200
ISFA CEO Roundtable June 6 – 8
Woburn, Mass. (412) 487-3207
info@isfanow.org
www.isfanow.org AWFS
July 19 – 22
Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 946-2937
ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training
Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 19 – 22
Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207
www.isfanow.org Marmomacc 2017 Sept. 27 – 30 Verona, Italy
045 829 8111 Concrete Décor Show Nov. 6-10
Palm Harbor, Fla. (877) 935-8906 Greenbuild Nov. 8 – 10
Boston, Mass.
(972) 536-6363 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Dec. 5 – 8
Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207
www.isfanow.org
Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org.
Circle RS#08 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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
In September, Hardiman Remediation Services in Ardmore, Ala., took advantage of the ISFA On-Site Training program to add solid surface fabrication and restoration to the skill sets of its employees.
In October, ISFA sent a certified trainer to Chino State Prison, in California, where six staff members were trained in solid surface fabrication and maintenance.
Six students in the most recent Solid Surface Total Fabrication Training were certified by ISFA for solid surface fabrication: Nehal Shah, Matt Blossom, John Mendonca, Al Coulterman, Alex Wasierski and Chris Walker. Chris Pappenfort was the ISFA Certified Trainer for the course.
ISFA Training: Your Place or Ours ISFA has been busy taking its solid surface training on the road via its ISFA On-Site Training program. The idea behind ISFA’s certified trainer coming to your location is that your staff learns with your actual tools in the specific environment in which the work will be taking place. In September, Hardiman Restoration Services in Ardmore, Ala., participated in the program so the company can add solid surface skills to its list of abilities. In the following month, ISFA took its training program to Chino Prison in California, where several members of the California Department of Corrections staff learned to fabricate and maintain solid surface, increasing the in-house talent. Program Overview ISFA On-Site is a customized solid surface training program designed to meet the needs of a specific business or organization. Basic fabrication instruction includes product orientation, safety, tooling, fabrication and installation. More advanced instruction includes manufacturers’ fabrication/ installation requirements. The benefits include: ■■ Allowing staff to train in the actual environment where work will take place using their own tools. ■■ Instructor can assist with starting a new job. ■■ The trainees/students can remain in the shop
■■ Trainer can assess additional on-site needs and make recommendations for best practices. The basic program is two days, of which 70 percent is classroom learning and 30 percent is handson shop training. It includes product knowledge, handling, inspection, safety, tooling, shop layout, templating, material layout, cutting, seaming, edge treatments, sink and bowl mounting, cutouts, backsplashes, thermoforming, finishing, basic repair, installation, support, overhangs and inlays. The more advanced program runs three days and is 40 percent classroom learning and 60 percent hands-on shop training. It covers all of the areas the basic program does, plus students actually complete a kitchen countertop project in teams. It may also include shop layout and efficiency audits, on-site consultation, speciality production and more advanced installation training. Requirements There are some basic requirements that must be met before on-site training can be scheduled. The company being trained must be a member of ISFA, or join prior to the training. Also, the facility to host the training must have: ■■ Standard woodworking tools plus solid surface specialty tooling (the trainer can provide a list).
■■ A solid surface or woodworking shop with a minimum of 800 sq. ft.
■■ An area for classroom type instruction. The registration process requires that an initial ■■ Particularly for larger groups being trained, it can phone consultation be conducted, and at least be more economical to pay trainer travel than staff’s one-month lead time must be incorporated into the schedule for course preparation. travel expenses. and not lose travel days.
16 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate to recognize that they have completed a professional solid surface fabrication training course. They will also receive window clings for work vehicles to identify them as members of the International Surface Fabricators Association. Lastly, they will be asked to complete a follow-up survey to provide feedback on the program. In addition, ISFA continues to offer its Solid Surface Total Fabrication Training (TFT) in Chantilly, Va. While this training course is very similar to the on-site training, and even uses the same training expert, all of the tools and equipment are supplied and those being trained go to a facility specifically designed to offer an optimum environment for learning the skills associated with solid surface training. Our most recent training class was held in early November, and six participants were certified during the three-day hands-on seminar. The next TFT course has tentatively been scheduled for the spring of 2017, and ISFA is currently accepting registrations for those who wish to be put on the list as potential class attendees. Those interested in either on-site or TFT solid surface training can get more information by contacting Operations Manager Carol Wilhite at the main ISFA office by emailing carol@isfanow.org or calling (412) 487-3207.
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In the Industry Hanwha Surfaces Names Stephen Becker VP of Sales & Marketing Hanwha Surfaces hired Stephen Becker as the company’s new vice president of sales and marketing. Becker brings more than 20 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing and construction industries. He is in charge of all sales and market activity, including management of all direct, distributorbased business and national accounts, as well as expanding the footprint of the company’s HanStone Quartz and Hanex Solid Surfaces brands in North America. “With the launch of a new North America production line in the next year, it is an exciting time to join the company,” said Becker.
Cosentino Receives 2016 Home Depot Supplier of the Year Award Cosentino Group, a global leader in the production and distribution of natural stone, quartz, recycled and architectural surfaces, was honored with the 2016 Home Depot Supplier of the Year Award during the retailer’s annual supplier conference at its headquarters in Atlanta. Suppliers that have gone above and beyond in their collaboration with The Home Depot were recognized, including Cosentino for its continued commitment to product innovation, speed to market and collaborative spirit with The Home Depot’s business model in North America. “This award is the merit recognition of a collaboration from multiple divisions across Cosentino, including product innovation and design, manufacturing, logistics, account management, sales and marketing,” said Lorenzo Marquez, vice president of marketing for Cosentino North America. Staying on top of design trends continues
announced the hiring of Brian Hall as a software
is displaying more sought-after slab and
engineering. Hall most recently worked at Coilcraft
to be a top-priority at MSI, so the company countertop colors. The facility features upgraded lighting, ample walk space and a knowledgeable sales staff.
Wilsonart to Acquire Bushboard in U.K. M S International, Inc. Completes Dallas Showroom Redesign & Updates in L.A. MSI redesigned and expanded its Dallas showroom. Revamped floor to ceiling, the stateof-the-art showroom features upgraded lighting, comfortable seating areas and a strategic layout to facilitate the shopping experience. Work tables and a conference room provide designers, fabricators and staff ample meeting space. The expansion nearly doubles the showroom size and includes many new displays and creative installs, allowing consumers to get hands-on with the products. The addition of several decorative mosaic fixtures makes it easier to browse more than 300 backsplash tiles, from traditional to contemporary. The showroom’s Slab Selection Gallery was updated with the latest countertop colors, as well as more premium and exotic colors, and a separate Q™ Premium Natural Quartz Slab Gallery was installed. In addition, MSI updated its Slab Gallery in Los Angeles. The reorganized Slab Selection Showroom offers customers an extensive collection of natural stone countertops. The slabs have been rearranged by color type to help customers find their desired look effortlessly. 20 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Wilsonart Engineered Surfaces, the Austin,
Texas-based manufacturer and distributor of
engineered surfaces, announced an agreement to acquire Bushboard, the U.K.-based
manufacturer and distributor of work tops and wall systems. The Bushboard business will
report to Tim Pearson, Wilsonart president, Western Europe. “Bushboard is a terrific
company that brings new, innovative products to
developer, reporting to Erik Louis, vice president of Inc. and brings 14 years of software development experience to his new position.
KCMA Announces New Website On Nov. 1, 2016, the Kitchen Cabinet
Manufacturers Association unveiled a completely redesigned and rebranded website at www.
kcma.org. The website is made to provide users a clean, uncluttered design that incorporates
improved functionality and enhanced content. The website announcement is in coordination
with a rebranded identity for KCMA — equipped with a redesigned corporate logo and two certification seals.
market,” said Tim O’Brien, Wilsonart CEO. “It will
Aristech Announces $11 Million in U.S. Plant Investments
which already includes leading engineered
Aristech Surfaces announced it is investing more
be a great addition to our European operations, surfaces brands like Polyrey and Resopal.”
than $11 million in U.S. plant improvements
Laser Products Announces Strategic Workforce Changes
comprehensive commitment to continual quality
Laser Products Industries (LPI) announced it has made two workforce changes that are intended
to continue the company’s growth and to better position it to realize future strategic initiatives.
Rich Katzmann has been promoted to president,
continuing to report to Dan Louis, owner and CEO. Since joining Laser Products almost one year
ago as the vice president of sales and marketing, Katzmann has lead the company into record
growth, expanded its sales force and entered
new markets including the recently announced partnership with Slabsmith. The company also
over the next three years as an ongoing,
improvement. The company completed a $4.5 million project to replace a stainless steel belt
on one of Aristech’s continuous cast machines in its Florence, Ky., plant, where it holds four
of the world’s largest acrylic casting machines.
These machines, measuring more than 100 yds. long and 9 ft. wide, are key to ensuring sheet
size flexibility and supply reliability for Aristech’s
customers. Recently, the company also invested $2 million on the installation of new sanding
equipment for its solid surface sheets as well as a new production line to manufacture shower bases in Belen, N.M.
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In the Industry Kohler Design Center and Foundry, expanding the group’s product knowledge. The Kohler
partnership has been expanded to allow group
members to better capitalize on the Kohler brand recognition. The group allowed trip sponsors
Kohler, Moraware, TENAX, AG&M, Park Industries, Baca Systems, Fabricators Choice and Heritage Wood/Craft Art to address the group regarding efficiency, design, finances and more.
Artisan Group Gathering Focuses on Smooth-On, Inc. Now Manufactures Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products Best Practices, Partnerships Members of Artisan Group recently toured fellow member shop KG Stevens to see the latest machinery and shop layout efficiency. Members discussed fabrication from sales to installation, and shared new ideas and concepts for issues countertop fabricators face. As a result of the meeting, the group is expanding its vendor partnership program and is inviting vendors wishing to attend next year’s meeting in Austin to contact the group. The tour’s next stop was the
cements, CSA, pozzolans, shrinkage reducers, set delay, fibers, polymer, sealers, tools and other related products. Delta President Shawn Hays stated, “The product line is in good hands and will continue to thrive under Smooth-On’s capable stewardship. All bag mix and other formulas will remain unchanged.” Buddy Rhodes, Jon Schuler and Jeremy French, who have been key contributors to the success of the Buddy Rhodes brand over the last several years, will continue working with
Delta Performance Products in Covington,
Smooth-On to develop and move the brand
Ga., sold its Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products
forward. Smooth-On’s Ernie Dojack has been
Division to Smooth-On, Inc. (Macungie, Pa.)
Included in the acquisition are the Buddy Rhodes
designated brand manager.
line of concrete bag mixes and admixtures,
Franke Kitchen Systems North America Announces New Hires
“The Signature Color Series™”, “Custom
Franke hired two new members for its North
Concrete Products will also continue to offer
named vice president of product management
The Buddy Rhodes Color Spectrum including Color™” and “Pure Pigments™.” Buddy Rhodes
American leadership team. Bryan Aown was
the BlueConcrete™ line of concrete products,
and innovation. He is responsible for leading
Circle RS#12 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. 22 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Franke’s Kitchen Systems product development
Living Building Challenge (LBC) version 3.1. The
of different colors of granite, marble, quartzite,
brands and will be driving growth in Franke’s
with third-party organizations to determine the
industry professionals (fabricators, contractors,
group including the Franke, KWC and Kindred core business, in addition to expanding the
brand’s innovative kitchen portfolio. Amy Trump was named the company’s U.S. controller and has financial oversight of all four subsidiaries within Franke’s Kitchen Systems division.
Trump and her team will manage a range of
responsibilities including monthly sales, general ledger reporting, monthly forecasting, annual budgets and manufacturing costs.
LEED v4 and LBC Now Recognize Sustainable Stone Certification The Natural Stone Council (NSC) announced that its Sustainable Production for
Natural Dimension Stone (ANSI/NSC 373)
certification is now recognized by the U.S.
Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED v4
building certification program, as well as the International Living Future Initiative’s (ILFI)
NSC Sustainability Committee worked closely sustainable footprint of how stone is quarried, transported and processed in order to align the ANSI/NSC 373 with LEED and LBC. In
addition, ANSI/NSC 373 was developed using
the consensus-based ANSI (American National
soapstone and engineered quartz slabs. Both designers, architects, etc.) and homeowners
are invited to view slabs in the warehouse and make selections and/or specify products for upcoming projects.
Standards Institute) process and can be applied
MIA+BSI Elects Three New Board Members
certifier like NSF International.
MIA+BSI elected three new members to the
Dwyer Marble & Stone Supply Opens Second Location
individuals will also serve on the transitional
internationally with certification by a third-party
Family-owned and operated Dwyer Marble & Stone Supply opened a second location
near Grand Rapids, Mich. The new location provides more options to homeowners as well as fabricators, contractors, builders,
architects and designers. The new branch of
the wholesale slab supplier is located in Byron Center, Mich. The facility stocks a wide variety
13-person MIA Board of Directors. These
MIA+BSI Board of Directors during the second year of the joint venture. The first is Duane Naquin, CEO of Stone Interiors, an MIA
Accredited fabrication/installation company in Gaston, S.C., who will represent Zone 3
(Southeast: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee).
Naquin replaces Jon Lancto, who will remain on the board as 2017 MIA president. The second
Circle RS#13 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 23
In the Industry new member is Herwig Callewier, chairman
February 2017. After a rigorous search, the
and wholesale company in Belgium, who will
to his leadership and considerable experience,
of Beltrami N.V., a natural stone producer
represent Zone 10 (Europe). Callewier replaces Claus Larsen (DANSK Srl), who served on the MIA Board of Directors for five years.
board of directors elected Mr. Zilberman due
along with his strong track record of success as a CEO.”
The final new member is Ali Kader, president
Polycor Acquires Swenson Granite & Rock of Ages
and supply company based in the Middle
Polycor Inc., a Quebec-based natural stone
Australia, Middle East and Philippines). Kader
of Ages, two companies in the granite and
who served on the MIA Board of Directors for
of these three large companies reportedly
and CEO of Egy-Mar International, a quarry
Swenson Granite and Rock of Ages management teams to capitalize the combined company. Though the transaction amount remains confidential, Polycor’s management estimates that by the end of this acquisition revenues will exceed $150 million per year.
Hardwoods Appointed Exclusive VIVA Distributor in California and Arizona
East. He will represent Zone 11 (Africa, Asia,
producer, acquired Swenson Granite and Rock
replaces Arik Grebelsky (A.Grebelsky & Son),
memorial monument industry. The merging
five years.
makes them the biggest marble and granite
Caesarstone Appoints New CEO
of the biggest worldwide. The headquarters
and Arizona. With its unique texture and wood
Canada. More than 800 employees will
embossed and in‐register (EIR) panels are
TorQuest Partners and its co-investors, in
wood structures. This is an expansion of the
are partnering with key members of Polycor,
exists in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada.
production group in North America and one
Caesarstone Ltd. quartz surface manufacturer appointed Raanan Zilberman as the
company’s new CEO. Chairman of the Board
Yonathan Melamed commented, “I am happy to welcome Raanan Zilberman, who will
join Caesarstone as the company’s CEO in
Tafisa Canada, a North American particleboard and TFL decorative panel manufacturer, appointed Hardwoods Specialty Products US – LP the exclusive VIVA distributor in California
of the business will remain in Québec City,
grain structure, Viva two‐sided synchronized
now work in Polycor’s numerous divisions.
available in 10 colors and come in three
conjunction with PNC Mezzanine Capital,
company’s distribution relationship that already
Circle RS#14 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. 24 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
expand your business I N TER N ATI ON A L SU R FAC E FA BR I C AT OR S A SSOC I ATI ON
TOTAL
fabrication Training Quartz & Stone
solid surface
Comprehensive hands-on training program designed to deliver the latest techniques and skills needed to become a highly skilled fabricator of quartz and stone. Templating • Cutting • Laminating • Shaping Polishing • Installing
The Gold Standard in Fabrication Training from the experts in Solid Surface Materials. A comprehensive hands-on training program designed to deliver the latest techniques and skills for Solid Surface Fabrication. Templating • Cutting • Assembling • Profiling Polishing • Installing
Dates: March 7 – 10, May 16 – 19, Sept. 19 – 22, Dec. 5 – 8 Location: Regent Stone, Virginia Beach, Va.
Dates: Spring of 2017 — call or email for details Location: Surface Link, Chantilly, Va.
ISFA On-SITE Fabrication Training We know how busy you are, so we bring fabrication training to you.
Educate on the latest techniques • Consult on shop layout • Help with a new project
your tools. your staff. your shop. our expertise. To schedule all training and to find out more, go to isfanow.org or contact us at info@isfanow.org
FOUNDED BY FABRICATORS FOR FABRICATORS I N T ERN ATION AL S UR FACE FABRIC AT ORS ASSOCIATION
To JOIN ISFA and find out more, go to www.isfanow.org International Surface Fabricators Association SERVING OUR MEMBERSHIP SINCE 1997 Circle RS#15 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Sink Spotlight Because countertops and sinks go hand-in-hand, it stands to reason that fabricators, designers and specifiers must remain aware of the sink offerings that are available. Additionally, they must have a good idea of the newer sinks and accessories on the market allows for potential upsells when countertops or bathroom vanities are being specified. As such, what follows is a look at some of the latest sinks on the market and what companies are offering them.
AmeriSink One of the latest sinks introduced by AmeriSink is the handcrafted 18-gauge stainless steel AS355 single bowl apron sink. This sink offers a 36-in.-wide basin to accommodate bigger pots and pans, radius corners that are easy to clean and a beautifully finished apron front. It includes a spray insulated undercoating and sound pads and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Circle RS#55 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Artisan Manufacturing Two models of Fireclay Sinks are now offered by Artisan Manufacturing. These timeless Fireclay kitchen sinks complement any décor and offer durable and easy-to-maintain products for both contemporary and traditional designs. Comfortable and rustic, they have matte finishes and sleek styling. Model AFC3001 is a single-bowl design and has interior dimensions of 27.5 in. wide by 16⅜ in. front to back and 10⅛-in. deep. ModelAFC3302 is a double-bowl design with each bowl’s interior dimensions being 15½ in. wide by 16¾ in. front to back by 10 in. deep. Circle RS#56 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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26 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
BLANCO
Austin; Atlanta; Hampton, N.H. (Boston area);
Crafted of 80 percent natural granite with the look and feel of natural stone, our patented sinks are resistant to scratches, stains, chips and heat. Colored all the way through, SILGRANIT® won’t fade in direct sunlight and is impervious to household acids and alkalis. They are nonporous, easy to clean and extremely hygienic. Available in eight on-trend colors and 29 shapes, SILGRANIT® sinks are designed to stand up to the toughest challenges. Coordinating BLANCO’s SILGRANIT® II or stainless steel sinks with any countertop is easy with the BLANCO mobile color app. Flip through the pre-installed countertops to see or show how they look with BLANCO sinks, via your iPad, iPhone or Android device. Add your own countertop collection to the app by uploading directly from your device’s camera. Save favorite combinations and email them to others or even find a dealer nearby.
Chicago. C-Tech-I has built a reputation as a
Brea, Calif. (Los Angeles/Orange County); and premium quality sink line, featuring rare euro
three-piece construction and heavy 16-gauge materials. Most models come as a complete
sink package including grids, sink strainer/drain and a pasta strainer. Chemcore will stock more than 30 models in the C-Tech-I Imperial line of stainless sinks, available from all locations.
Circle RS#58 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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Domain Industries Domain Industries unveiled its new line of
Lexicon Platinum Quartz Sinks. With deep non-
porous sink bowls, the quartz sinks are durable, easy to clean, scratch- and stain-resistant and
Chemcore
resistant to chipping. The series is available
Chemcore Industries acquired the C-Tech-I sink line and, as owner of the brand, will be the exclusive distributor of C-Tech-I sinks through its five U.S. warehouses located in:
kitchen styles from contemporary to traditional.
in five colors and 10 formats to complement The sinks are available in both double-bowl
configurations and small, medium and large
single basin styles. All Lexicon Platinum Series
to 535 F and are also UV stable so the color will not fade. Available in top, under and universal mount formats with single-, double- and Aqua Divide™ bowls, the sinks also come with a variety
sinks come with a custom-designed stainless steel sink grid that fits the unique shape of each sink and can be used for drying plates, glassware and utensils. Also included are colormatched strainer baskets and disposal flanges that complement each sink.
of accessories, including coordinating cutting boards and rinsing baskets.
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Franke
Elkay Elkay® introduced new colors and models to its E-Granite™ collection. The company’s new E-Granite kitchen, bar and prep sinks include 10 new models and five new colors — Greige, Greystone, Sand, Putty and Pecan. With these additions, Elkay’s E-Granite portfolio now includes a total of 10 colors and 26 different models. They are stain- and odor-resistant, and easy to clean. Made from 80 percent quartz, they are durable, scratch-resistant, heat-resistant up
Falper The EDGE bathroom collection from Falper is designed to make everyday environments extraordinary. These glass units combine fine furniture crafting techniques and sophisticated glass processing. They have a stain-proof satin surface obtained through a nanotechnology process. Circle RS#61 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
The Chef Center integrated sink system from Franke features two versatile, removable, anti-microbial compartments that can serve as a composter, wine bucket, storage bin or any other purpose imaginable. Adding to its all-in-one appeal, the Chef Center also comes with an array of custom accessories, including a cutting board, colander, grid, mobile drainer board, push-button remote-controlled operated strainer basket and Franke’s exclusive Roller Mat. Designed and engineered in Switzerland, its wide basin accommodates large pots and pans, and the sink reveal allows the custom accessories to lay flat on the sink ledge and slide easily from side to side. Handcrafted from premium-quality 18-gauge stainless steel,
Circle RS#16 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Members since 2004 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 27
the Chef Center also features solid sound absorption to significantly reduce disposal and dishwashing noise. Circle RS#62 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
quiet performance. Sink grid(s) and strainer are included. Savoir is a suitable complement for any modern luxury kitchen. The company’s vast assortment of sink designs, available in stainless steel, granite, fireclay, hand-hammered copper and porcelain enameled steel, provide an array of styles, colors and textures to match any design theme and budget. Find out more at www.houzersink.com. Circle RS#64 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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Gemstone Gemstone introduced more new sink models this year including the 3217-ES, the largest single bowl kitchen sink in the market today, according to the company. Also being introduced is the 3320-D replacement sink made for sink replacements for the largest discontinued sinks. This selection allows the update or replacement of older solid surface sinks with new contemporary sinks that are large enough to be installed in a standard 36-in. cabinet, and large enough to cover the opening of nearly every solid surface sink that has ever been made. With more than 75 models to choose from, Gemstone has emerged a leader in solid surface shape innovation and custom production design. Gemstone is also publishing its latest edition of its Specification Guide for 2017. Call or email Gemstone to get your copy today, or visit www.GemstoneSS.com.
Karran With the improvement of durability and appeal of laminate patterns and designs in the past few years, their growing popularity can be complemented by adding a Karran seamless undermount sink. The sink choices that can be undermounted seamlessly to laminate come in stainless steel, acrylic solid surface and quartz option, providing a variety of visually aesthetic options as well as practicality and durability. Circle RS#65 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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Kohler
Expertly handcrafted one sink at a time, HOUZER’s Savoir Series of sinks are a fusion of modern lines and conventional elegance that work in virtually any kitchen design. Savoir’s sharp, 10mm radius corners are easy to clean. Deep, straight walls maximize sink capacity, accommodating larger kitchenware. Scored drain lines add a touch of refined sophistication. Savoir Series sinks are made from premium grade 18/10, 18-gauge Type-304 stainless steel and feature MegaShield insulation for 28 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
MR Direct expanded its Builder Series of sinks to include the bathroom. For the bath the sinks can be inventoried and ready for immediate installation. Whether it’s the rectangular U1913 in white or bisque porcelain; the oval UPMs in white, bisque or black porcelain; or the round 1917 in stainless steel, the customer gets a variety of choices, and fabricators get to accelerate production by precutting countertops for these sinks designed to be affordable and of quality. Circle RS#67 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#63 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
HOUZER
MR Direct
Kohler Self-Trimming® apron-front sinks make it easier to have the classic farmhouse look in your kitchen. The new Whitehaven® family of products provides a perfect fit and finish. Crafted in timeless Kohler enameled cast iron, it is guaranteed* not to chip, crack or burn for a lifetime. Add strength, style and soul to your kitchen with Kohler enameled cast iron. *Kohler enameled cast iron sinks installed in North America carry a Lifetime, Limited Warranty for as long as the original consumer purchaser owns his or her home. For complete warranty information, visit Kohler.com/warranty. Circle RS#66 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Native Trails Native Trails unveiled four new NativeStone® sinks for the kitchen and bath, including Farmhouse Quartet, Farmhouse Double Bowl, Nipoma and Tolosa. NativeStone, a
proprietary material the company developed from a combination of natural jute fiber and concrete, was designed to be sturdier and more environmentally friendly than concrete, as well as 40 percent lighter and stain-resistant, reports the company. Available in Ash (a light, yet rich gray), Slate (a darker hue) and Pearl (a glowing off-white) finishes, the sinks will be available June 1. They can be mounted in different ways to offer additional flexibility. Farmhouse Quartet has four installation options: apron-front, undermount (no visible apron), bow-front or straight-front. It has outer dimensions of 33 by 20.5 by 10.25 in. and inner dimensions of 30.5 by 18 by 9 in. The Farmhouse Double Bowl is a practical doublebowl kitchen sink with geometric appeal. It has outer dimensions of 33 by 20.5 by 10.25 in. and inner dimensions of 30.5 by 17.75 by 9.5 in. Nipomo has a soft rectangular shape and can be installed as an apron-front, undermount or vessel sink. It has outer dimensions of 19.5 by 15 by 4.5 in. and inner dimensions of 17 by
13 by 4 in. Tolosa is an oval-shaped bathroom sink with a smooth surface. It can be installed as an apron-front, undermount or drop-in sink. Outer dimensions are 19.5 by 15.5 by 4.75 in., and inner dimensions are 17 by 14 by 4 in. Circle RS#68 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Rock Counter Kitchen & Bath Pelican International Pelican International sinks include a wide variety of certified 304 stainless steel sinks, porcelain vanity bowls, sophisticated handmade sinks, granite composite sinks, acrylic sinks and specialty sinks, such as those made of glass, fireclay or bamboo, that add a little extra “wow” to any kitchen or bathroom project. Models are available in a variety of bowl configurations and in both undermount and top mount models. According to the company, it searches out and tests a variety of products regularly so it can provide quality products at reasonable prices.
Rock Counter Kitchen & Bath offers a wide variety of sinks at wholesale prices. Among the sink offerings are both stainless steel and porcelain products. The company offers smaller bar sinks, a variety of kitchen sinks in numerous sizes including double- and singlebowl models, and even zero-radius corner sinks in its Handmade Series. The company also offers grids for many of the sink models it carries. Circle RS#71 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
All Pelican branded sinks go through factory quality inspections, and are inspected a second time before leaving the company’s warehouse.
As a result of its partnership with Schock GmbH, Revere has added four new models and two new colors (Taupe and Almond) to its Granite Sink Line. This brings the line to a total of 20 models all of which come in seven colors. Revere granite sinks are stain- and odor-resistant and easy to clean. The durable material is made from 80 percent natural quartz, so these sinks can endure everyday wear and tear, resisting smudges, scratches and even heavier impacts. The sinks are also heatresistant up to 535 F. The nonporous ultrafine nanostructure of the sinks prevents foods, liquids and bacteria from sticking to the surface for hygiene protection. Granite colors won’t fade thanks to the proprietary UV-stable technology. Circle RS#70 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Stone Forest® added two new models to its collection of kitchen, bath and bar sinks. Each one is made from high-gauge stainless steel and hand-hammered to add visual interest. The Stainless Steel Bar Sink is made from 18-gauge stainless steel with hammered interior. It is available as an undermount or over mount version with dimensions of 7.5 in. high by 15 in. wide by 15 in. deep overall and interior dimensions of 7 in. high by 13 in. wide by 13 in. deep. The finish is available as either brushed or polished. The Oval Stainless Steel Hammered Bath Sink is made from 16-gauge stainless steel with a hand-hammered interior. This undermount sink is available either brushed or polished with dimensions of 6.25 in. high by 19.25 in. wide by 16.25 in deep. Circle RS#73 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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Revere
Stone Forest® Introduces Two Hand-Hammered Sinks
Ronbow Ronbow introduces two new fireclay kitchen sinks. Sturdy and substantial products, the sinks are made of a special fireclay formula and manufactured in Ronbow’s specialized Vitreous China factory. The Fireclay kitchen sinks are made using very heavy-duty material and glaze and then baked at a higher temperature compared to traditional ceramic sinks. The unique Fireclay kitchen sinks are durable, nonporous and scratch-resistant to prevent cracking. They are available in two different models: a traditional farmhouse kitchen sink and a reversible design with a plain side and a fluted side. The sinks are offered in two sizes: 30 by 18 in. and 36 by 18 in. Circle RS#72 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
TopZero TopZero added the Z Series to its line of seamless edge stainless steel sinks. The series features square cornered sinks that are suitable for the minimalist décor. Clean, precise lines help maximize available bowl space. Z Series sinks are available in 18-in., 21-in., 24-in. and 30-in. widths. According to the company, TopZero edge technology brings flawless, vanishing-edge appearance against almost any solid surface material without the challenges of complex fabrication techniques. Circle RS#74 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 29
FOCUS ON SAFETY:
A Look at the Past Year’s Most Commonly Cited OSHA Violations By Shannon DeCamp
Every October the Occupational Safety and
■■ Each employee must be fit tested and you
■■ Adequate Personal Protective Equipment
the 10 most frequently cited safety and health
correctly fits, the user.
■■ Quick drench showers and eye wash stations
Health Administration (OSHA) releases a list of violations for the fiscal year. This list is a great
starting point to see where OSHA is focusing its
efforts, see where similar businesses have safety
deficiencies and to evaluate your safety programs to ensure that you are in compliance. Here are the most frequently cited standards in the Cut
Stone and Stone Product Manufacturing industry segments (NAICS Code 327991) for last year (October 2015 through September 2016). 1: Respiratory Protection The Respiratory Protection Standard was cited far more frequently than any other standard. Surface fabricators may be required to use
respirators to protect themselves from inhaling
must select a respirator that is acceptable to, and ■■ Each employee must be trained on the
respiratory hazards to which they are potentially exposed, the proper use of their respirator,
including putting on and removing them, any limitations on their use, and procedures and
schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing,
inspecting, repairing, discarding and otherwise maintaining their respirator.
■■ You must designate a program administrator who is qualified by appropriate training or experience to administer or oversee the
respiratory protection program and conduct the required evaluations of program effectiveness. 2: Hazard Communication
(PPE)
(as required)
■■ Comprehensive training program for employees
3: Powered Industrial Trucks The third most frequently cited standard was the Powered Industrial Trucks regulation. The use of
powered industrial trucks for handling of materials and finished products is critical to the successful operation of surface fabrication shops. The
majority of fork truck accidents can be attributed to lack of safe operating procedures and safety
rule enforcement, and insufficient or inadequate training. In addition to training and education, applying general safety principles — such as
grit and dust that occurs when dry-cutting quartz,
Every year, hazard communication violations are
proper work practices, equipment and controls —
exposure to chemicals released when sawing,
past year was no exception. If you use even a
personnel who work with or around forklifts must
Your adhesives and other chemicals used may
to-Know” program. In 2012, OSHA updated the
practices. Operators must be trained specifically
stone or masonry that contains silica and from
at the top of the list for ALL industries, and this
can help to reduce such workplace incidents. ALL
routing, drilling or sanding synthetic sheet goods.
single hazardous chemical, you need a “Right-
be trained on potential hazards and safe work
produce hazardous fumes.
Hazard Communication Standard by adopting
■■ You must establish and implement a written
Classification and Labeling of chemicals. GHS
respiratory protection program with work-site-
specific procedures, and update this program as necessary to reflect any changes in workplace conditions that affect respirator use.
the Global Harmonization System (GHS) of
is an internationally agreed upon system that
replaces the various classification and labeling standards used in different countries. The
revised standard includes important changes
■■ You must determine what employee exposure
to classification of chemicals, Material Safety
a NIOSH-certified respirator with a protection
Data Sheets, or SDS), and labels for chemicals.
the worker is exposed and workplace and user
standard have all passed, and you must now be
is for each chemical in the workplace, and select
Data Sheets (MSDS) format (now called Safety
level based on the respiratory hazard(s) to which
The deadlines for compliance with this revised
factors that affect respirator performance and
in full compliance with the GHS regulation.
reliability.
■■ Using a respirator may place a physiological
Your chemical safety program must include the
on the type of truck they will use and the working conditions encountered. Refresher training, including an evaluation of each operator’s
performance, must be conducted at least every three years.
4: Air Contaminants Violations of the Air Contaminants regulation
were also high on the list last year. Effective June 23, 2016, there is a new regulation for exposure to silica. Manufacturing, finishing and installing natural and manufactured stone countertops
generate dangerous crystalline silica dust that can become trapped in lung tissue and pose
serious health effects. Sawing, routing, drilling
following:
or sanding synthetic sheet goods, as well as
respirator worn, the job and workplace conditions
■■ A written program
produce hazardous fumes. OSHA requires you
status of the employee. Before using a respirator,
chemicals
employee to use one.
each chemical
burden on employees that varies with the type of in which the respirator is used, and the medical
■■ Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labels for all
a physician must determine that it is safe for the
■■ Safe handling and storage procedures for
30 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
your adhesives and other chemicals, may
to determine which chemicals are released in
the air at your workplace and to recognize the
safe limit for each. Then you must use all feasible engineering controls, such as ventilation and
water delivery systems, along with administrative
performed in surface fabrication shops
procedures, to reduce levels as much as
hearing loss is permanent and irreversible, but
compliance, protective equipment or any other
employers to assess noise levels, and to take
the exposure of employees to air contaminants
engineering controls must be applied, such
you must have a full Respiratory Protection
exposure. If these controls fail to reduce sound
controls, regulated areas and safe housekeeping
generates significant noise. Noise-induced
possible. When such controls don’t achieve
is 100 percent preventable! OSHA requires
protective measures must also be used to keep
action when safe limits are exceeded. First
within safe limits. Whenever respirators are used,
as enclosures and insulation, to reduce noise
Program (see above).
levels to acceptable limits, the correct hearing
5: Noise Though only the fifth most frequent, the
most costly citations in the industry were for occupational noise. Much of the work
protection must be provided. Employees
must be trained on their risks, the symptoms of hearing loss and on a company’s specific
program. OSHA’s hearing conservation program has the following components:
1. Monitoring the ongoing assessment of noise levels in the workplace. 2. Training for all employees who are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. 3. Audiometric testing that measures changes in hearing capability. The first step of the Audiometric Test Program is to get a baseline audiogram to compare to future tests. This must be done within one year of an employee’s first exposure. Additional tests must be done annually to show if there is any loss of hearing ability at any frequency. 4. Noise controls, such as isolation or insulation, must be implemented when necessary, which
Circle RS#17 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 31
eliminate or reduce the risk of hearing damage. Noise attenuation means to reduce the level of sound that reaches workers’ ears.
5. Hearing protectors — when engineering and administrative controls cannot reduce sound
levels to acceptable limits, hearing protectors must also be used.
6: Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) The purpose of a lockout/tagout program is to control the release of hazardous energy when servicing or maintaining equipment. Proper
lockout/tagout procedures safeguard workers from hazardous energy releases of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical,
thermal and other energy sources. Inadequate
lockout/tagout procedures can lead to crushing, electrocution, amputations, etc., which are
sources, the type and magnitude of the energy,
machines or equipment that are locked out or
and the methods and means necessary for
tagged out.
energy isolation and control. l An
affected employee is one whose jobs
requires him/her to operate or use a machine or equipment that might be locked or tagged out, or works in an area where servicing or maintenance is being performed. Affected employees must be instructed in the purpose and use of the energy control procedure. l All
other employees whose work operations
are or may be in an area where energy control procedures may be utilized must be trained on the procedure, and about the prohibition relating to attempts to restart or re-energize
l Employees
must be retrained whenever
there are new or different control methods, or whenever there is reason to believe that correct procedures have not been followed. l Employee
training must be documented.
7: Guarding of Equipment, Machines and Tools Surface fabricators cut, grind and polish natural and engineered stone, and other surfacing materials, and also create supporting wood structures. These work processes typically involve electrical powered tools, pneumatic power tools and woodworking tools, each of which has their own specific OSHA requirements
typically very severe or fatal. Each employer must
Get the Point
with respect to guarding. You must assess each
its particular workplace and the types of machines
Silica Safety Employee Training Program for the Surface Fabrication Industry
has proper guards. New equipment comes
develop a site-specific energy control program for and equipment being maintained or serviced.
This is generally done by affixing the appropriate lockout or tagout devices to energy-isolating devices and by de-energizing machines and
equipment. A formal written program is required. ■■ You must have a written procedure for
shutting down and locking/tagging out each
piece of equipment to be serviced. All sources of energy must be identified and controlled.
■■ You must provide the appropriate locks and
tags. Use only lockout/tagout devices authorized for the particular equipment or machinery and ensure they are durable, standardized and
equipment to ensure it is properly guarded. If
This training program instructs workers on:
use); and 10: Emergency Preparedness (exit
■■ The health hazards associated with silica ■■ Job tasks that present risk of exposure
■■ Use lockout devices for equipment that can
■■ How to protect yourself
equipment is capable of being locked out.
This Get the Point Silica Safety Employee Training Program includes:
be locked out. Ensure that new or overhauled
■■ If machines or equipment are not capable of being locked out, tagout devices may be used in lieu of lockout devices. The tagout program
must provide protection equivalent to a lockout program.
with adequate guards. You must assess older
In 2016, OSHA established a new regulation for respirable crystalline silica, with stringent requirements for protecting the 2.3 million workers who are exposed to this hazard at work. Workers involved in manufacturing, finishing, and installing natural and manufactured stone countertop products, both in fabrication shops and during in-home finishing/installation, are at risk of exposure to silica dust and lifelong health consequences.
substantial. Ensure that lockout/tagout devices identify the individual users.
tool and machine that you use, and ensure each
■■ Effective solutions to eliminate exposure
■■ An employee training DVD ■■ Instructor notes ■■ Student handout ■■ A copy of the OSHA Standard
not, provide adequate guards or discard the equipment. Your employees must be trained on how the guards protect them, and to leave the guards on at all times! Employees who remove or bypass guards should be disciplined. Rounding out the top 10 violations were 8:
Walking/Working Surfaces (primarily guarding
floor and wall openings and holes); 9: Electrical
Safety (wiring methods, components and general routes, portable fire extinguishers, first aid, sprinkler systems). The main goal of safety and health programs is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths, as well as the suffering and financial hardship these events can cause for workers, their families and employers. In addition, an effective safety program also reduces costs, including significant reductions in workers’ compensation premiums, engages workers, increases productivity and
■■ Related documents and checklists
enhances overall business operations.
tagout device is permitted to remove it, except
■■ Student Quiz and Answer Key to ensure the information was understood
About the Author
■■ Inspect energy control procedures at least
■■ Certificate of Completion to document your training efforts
■■ Only the employee who applied a lockout/ in special circumstances. annually.
■■ Training must include elements of the energy control procedure relevant to the employee’s duties or assignment. l An
authorized employee is one who locks out
or tags out machines or equipment in order
to perform servicing or maintenance on that
machine or equipment. These employees must understand the applicable hazardous energy
32 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
■■ An instruction guide that lists any additional steps you must take to be in full compliance with OSHA regulations This product is available from ISFA at a discounted price. Contact TechneTrain, Inc. at (800) 852-8314, or ISFA for more information.
Shannon DeCamp is Client Services Manager for TechneTrain, Inc. For further information regarding OSHA compliance requirements for the surface fabricating industry, visit www.technetrain.net, or contact TechneTrain, Inc. at (800) 852-8314. TechneTrain has a full line of easy-to-understand reference materials and turnkey employee training programs specifically designed for the surface fabrication industry. These products are offered through ISFA at discounted prices.
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2400 Wildwood Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 33
Sustainability in Business Includes, but Goes Well Beyond, “Green”
By P. Max Le Pera
One of the maturing topics in business today is the concept of “sustainability.” Indeed it
has been around a while and yet most often
today it is heard of in the “planetary” context. That is, sustainability as it relates to the
environment, recycling and “green” materials. However, there is a much broader definition
of sustainability, one that is widely accepted and that ultimately relates to ethics and
leadership — two compulsory dynamics in any “sustainable” business.
The planetary aspect of sustainability is a relevant and core concept to the building materials industry. With LEED points and
incentives for recycled material usage on
the rise, commercial fabricators surely align themselves with some of the most viable
options whose value proposition is reasonable, i.e., a sound price-to-value correlation.
Thinking of sustainability in the broader sense brings about the concepts behind L.A.B.E.R : ■■
Leadership
■■
Accountability/Alignment
■■
Best Practices
■■
Ethics
■■
Rights to Future Generations
Leadership For any business to survive, any army to win a battle, any sports team to win, leadership
Some manager types struggle with ego and cannot embrace leadership skills because of a quiet but powerful underlying sense of
is needed. Leadership is essential; it is the
insecurity. To lead, you must embrace others
guidance, structure and sense of purpose.
threatened by seeking advice and opinions,
transcend management. Leadership leads
— humility and embracing a team mentality.
participates, perseveres and is confident yet
dynamic of “defensive protection” vs. “humble
flow and dares to be different and take risks as
incentive to employees, selfishness and lack
ordered energy infused in a system to give
without knowing all the answers. If one feels
There are many aspects of leadership that
then they lack a necessary skill of leadership
by example, inspires, guides, promotes,
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to find a
humble. Leadership lubricates the operational
seeking.” This schism can produce dis-
needed while not afraid to get in the trenches
of promoting a true team environment, i.e.,
with the team.
UNsustainable.
What few realize is that the truth with
Leaders also create corporate cultures
generally do not have all of the answers.
incentives, integrity, levity, participation and
leadership is that leaders, even great leaders, What they are superior at is, however, the ability to align, research and network to
secure the best information upon which their
decisions will be based. Leadership does not
equal omniscience. Leadership is finding a way to get it done — as successfully as possible —
and foster ideologies that center around teamwork which add to the overall mood and atmosphere, ultimately supporting the sustainability of the company. Any dynamic focused on reducing turnover greatly adds to sustainability.
using team resources and synergy. Similarly,
Leadership mind-set is a central pillar of
highest goal scorer. Rookie prodigies, for
successfully execute the myriad strategies in
The sustainability here is a broad class of
or empathic skills to motivate and inspire.
Promoting a cooperative environment with
that encourage long-term successful results.
experience. So too follows the leadership
critical.
captains of athletic teams are not always the
sustainability. Emotionally intelligent leaders
example, often do not have the interpersonal
their organization that support sustainability.
actions, mind-set, culture and behaviors
This often only comes with maturity and
teamwork and cross-functional ability is
L.A.B.E.R. relates significantly to sustainability
model in business.
in a fabrication business. In fact, these aspects
are endemic to any business. Drilling down into each ultimately reveals that:
Sustainability is a function of leadership mind-set and core values. 34 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
[Note: Perhaps ironically, while this article
Caution is necessary here. Owners must
discusses leadership as a pillar of sustainability,
if they are more adept at being a “boss”
the subject from the reverse angle: how
different groups of skills and mind-sets.
anticipated paperback release Q4 2017.]
evaluate their management team and see
I have been drafting a manuscript on
or being a leader, which are two very
sustainability is a pillar of leadership —
Accountability/Alignment
Best Practices
Ethics
Accountability is yet another pillar of
Best practices need to be documented and
Ethics and integrity go a very long way
sustainability because it enforces diligence,
shared. The value of any individual is just that
smokes out abuses and maintains team
— the individuality they bring to the company
honesty and harmony. Accountability is a
and their role. Their mind-set, experiences,
facet of alignment so this “A” in L.A.B.E.R is
values, character and personality are integral
interchangeable. Accountability can have a
negative connotation if it is meant to “check up” on your team. The proper way of looking at it is more as an aspect of positive management (or leadership) that encourages communication, reporting and result analysis. Anything that
supports more communication subsequently supports alignment within the team function.
parts of the synergistic effect of teamwork. Yet while each employee may have their own signature mode of operation, there is alignment in determining “best practices” for any given function. Here again, leadership must create the safe forum to communicate and share. This takes intention and follow-through. Best practices support alignment and structure,
Alignment creates synergy, and therein lies the
with anarchy exemplified as the polar opposite.
aiming for targets and sharing results
modus operandi in which the individual can
maximize engagement. These operatives
strategies, protocols and communications
and adaptation and provide structure to a
and relationship building should be shared
and alignment are essential to a company’s
in building trust. Business is all about relationships, such as relationships with your team and customers, and probably the most sustainable element of solid relationships is trust. Trust is built through alignment as well, that is, when a company’s actions match what they preach. Sometimes the most successful companies simply just do what they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do it. Ethics and integrity are part and parcel of sustainable leadership. A company’s C-Suite (or senior executive group) must choose
foundation of sustainability. Communication,
Best practices allow for a stream of aligned
all focus on accountability, which can
personalize the delivery. Focusing and sharing
reduce uncertainty, elicit ideas for changes
that have yielded positive empirical results
company’s goals. As such, accountability
and supported. These best practices can only support the long-term economic and relational
integrity highly supports sustainability in an
sustainability.
health of a company, i.e., sustainability.
organization.
to operate with integrity; the marketing department must creatively deliver the message; and operations and sales must follow the marketing mantras. Here again, having all of these parts of the business aligned, operating ethically and with
Circle RS#18 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 35
Rights to Future Generations
also takes on some of the planetary aspect
Rights to future generations (RFG) is often a highly debated philosophical platform. Can
someone who is not even here have rights that are enforceable that might affect the bottom
line now? On the other hand, if it is looked at from a personal point of view, one’s opinion
may change. If we look at that future someone as a son or granddaughter who could inherit a safer and more beautiful environment — a
business that is a true going concern built on a solid foundation of sustainability — does it then become more important? Many people
will care much more about this aspect when it
is personalized and related directly to someone for whom they care greatly.
mentioned above, that is, the environment.
We cannot control city sewerage dumping into residential canals, etc., but we can enforce
recycling programs in our shops and break
rooms. We can alleviate that oil tank situation
business. Whether it is estate planning,
retirement planning and funding, safe operation initiatives (OSHA self-audit), tax liability
mitigation or even developing a strategy to clean up pollution liabilities that may carry
forward, all of these actions are aligned with
sustainability. With RFG, sustainability is not only about creating a lasting business, but
encompass both planetary and operational ideals whose central theme centers around alignment and synergy. Fabrication companies with a culture that
so as not to pass the liability into the future;
supports L.A.B.E.R. will necessarily have a
by enforcing rules of safety and approved
run thinking and perseverance, and with
we can protect our environments and labor
competitive advantage. It takes some long-
chemicals/products.
that comes tremendous momentum around
Along these lines, there is currently a particular focus on silica, largely because of the recent
changes in regulations. Being proactive about educating the dangers of silica respiration
and enforcing the safety rules accordingly is directly related to a sustainable leadership
Succession planning is ubiquitous in small
sustainability known as L.A.B.E.R. These pillars
mind-set that ties into the rights to future generations. Everyone in the company is
important and serves a vital role — it should be the leadership mind-set to ensure the physical health and wellness of all employees.
Sustainability is both a framework and a
mind-set. Businesses today can increase the probability of longevity and success by employing the five central pillars of
sustainability. Planned and executed under the right leadership, sustainability becomes a means, not an end, which subsequently affords a happier and healthier lifestyle and a business optimally poised to hand down to future generations.
About the Author Paul Max Le Pera is the Global Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Hirsch Glass & Spectrum Quartz, with 20 years’ experience in business and marketing strategy for the building materials industry. He can be reached at (908) 3585252 or Max@HirschGlassCorp.com.
Circle RS#19 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 36 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Circle RS#15 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE:
Interfab
Material specialization leads to superior performance and success Founded in 1988 in Worcestershire, United Kingdom, Interfab has, since its inception,
focused its capabilities strictly on one product
— solid surface — and being the absolute best it can be with that product. Background Born in Stratford upon Avon, United Kingdom,
David Cranke, the company’s managing director, upon graduating from Brunel University near
London where he studied polymers, began his
career working with BTR Industries, then a large multinational company that has since merged
with another and grown further. His early career
centered around using polyurethane and epoxies for gas pipeline repair, which eventually led to
earning a position as business manager for the BTR’s Pipeline Services Division.
He also worked in technical sales for two
years in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the Saudi/
Swiss joint venture Aplaco, which specialized in manufacturing polymer pipe fittings. This time in the Middle East led to another placement
with Cloissal, Dubai, where Cranke was first introduced to solid surface in 1984. He ran
Cloissal’s Sultanate of Oman offices in Muscat,
and marketed a number of high-quality building 38 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
products such as DuPont™ Corian® and Dow Chemicals’ Roofmate, etc.
After leaving Muscat in 1988, Cranke and his
wife Christine set up Interfab Ltd, and shortly afterward the fabricator was recognized by
DuPont as an “Authorized Corian Fabricator”
as it was termed at the time. Christine, who is a fully qualified teacher having taught in the
United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and Oman, has
since obtained an additional degree in business administration and economics, and is Interfab’s finance director. Current
28 years and more than 10,000 installations ago, David and Christine Cranke founded Interfab, which specializes in solid surface fabrication in the residential kitchen and bath industry.
“Interfab is primarily focused on residential Corian
and it has the ability to service more than
solid surface service starting with design and
area further covered by the company includes
work, and provides complete fabrication and
pricing, through installation to after sales care,”
said David. “The company has 20 people on staff, many of whom have been with Interfab for 15 to
20 years, making it a storehouse of experience.” The company’s specialization is the high-quality fabrication and service to mainly the kitchen market by supporting studios with displays,
training, point of sales, samples and, above all,
closely controlled support through every project. Interfab is centrally located in the U.K. Midlands,
150 displaying kitchen and bath studios. The
Liverpool and Manchester in the north, Wales
in the southwest and south to London. Largely its coverage maxes out at about four hours of traveling time. However, because of its
specialized focus, the company has supplied
work in Ireland, Poland, France and the British Virgin Islands.
“Interfab is one of about 10 main residential
Corian fabricators in the United Kingdom that handles the majority of kitchen and bathroom
ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: Interfab
This project designed by Intoto Kitchens, Exeter, U.K., with split-color countertops won an Innovation in Design Award in 2011.
In addition to sleek designs, Interfab works with modern techniques such as backlighting translucent solid surface as in this intricate lighting/fabrication project in Glacier White and Glacier Ice Corian(left) and this extensively thermoformed display counter installation (right).
projects,” explained David. As an “Quality
systems and has thermoforming capabilities,
directly from DuPont. On average, the company
conventional solid surface equipment without
Network, Industrial Partner” it purchases
purchases about $550,000 of Corian each year. And that same Industrial Partner status means all of its work is backed by DuPont’s 10-year warranty.
While Corian remains the backbone product
of the company, with it representing about 90 percent of Interfab’s sales, as LG HI-MACS®
and Staron® have become more widely known, the products have been absorbed into the company’s repertoire.
While the company uses top-end software
interestingly, the fabrication is all done using the integration of CNC machinery. “We have
not gone the CNC route yet,” said David, “as
frankly we are still emerging from seven to eight years of recession in the U.K. We could not
justify the investment in such a climate. The U.K.
always prepare and send our quotations to a studio the same day as receiving their inquiry. Also on a practical side we normally only take four to five working days from templating to installation. Speedy turnarounds in both instances encourage the use of Interfab’s services, and increase the repeat sales.”
vote to exit from the European Union may also
At one point the company did supply quartz
period while the whole country adjusts.”
actually fabricated it. Instead, it partnered with
Philosophy
supplied DuPont Zodiaq® quartz surfacing.
potentially slow the growth of the economy for a
“Our ethos is service, service, service!” explained David. “To illustrate our service element, we
surfacing, but not to the extent where it a company that focused on granite, but also “Sales peaked to over $300,000 one year, but supply/quality issues and the granite company’s
Circle RS#20 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 39
ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: Interfab
While the company uses top-end software systems and has thermoforming capabilities, interestingly, the fabrication is all done using conventional solid surface equipment without the integration of CNC machinery.
Interfab’s years of specialization in solid surface fabrication and installation has lead it to a position where unique projects such as the interior of this RV are not a problem.
Solving complex problems related to solid surface, such as designing this countertop with edges that allowed for both chrome strips and embedded LED lighting, are areas in which Interfab thrives. (Another photo of this project is featured on the cover of this magazine.)
poor service prompted us to pull out,” explained
speaks for itself. We are also an ISFA Certified
check sheet.”
quartz surface workshop. I believe our strength
These were the 2010 Innovation Award for our
David. “We never had any intention to have a
is in knowing our product area inside out, and we do not feel multiple products would work for us.” It is this focus over the years that has allowed
Professional, and have earned two ISFA awards. marketing and customer support techniques,
and in the 2011 Design & Fabrication Innovation
Competition where we received the top award in
Developing confidence with their kitchen and bath clientele for a professional company reassures those kitchen and bath studios that they, in turn, will get happy end clients. “By
the Residential Kitchen category.”
taking the risk and worry from them, they use us
it to handle unique projects, using modern
The vast majority of the fabricator’s work comes
simple but effective policy that has worked for
that has earned the company a reputation for
it makes sense for the company to provide a
the company to develop a skill level that allows techniques and tackling a variety of complexities top-notch work. “Our expertise, flexible size,
quality ethic, attention to detail and professional service are the keys to how we have been able
to develop a strong base of loyal studios, some
of whom we have worked with for more than 25
years earning repeat business,” said David. “Our
DuPont Quality Network certificate number 0006
to them via kitchen and bath businesses, so
high level of customer service. “We emphasize our specialization and experience; we support our clients in great detail all the way through
with design/technical advice, based on good
in-house training from Interfab,” said David. “We produce detailed drawings and specifications,
in preference to others,” said David. “That’s our 28 years, and we now have more than 10,000 installations to our name.” More information is available at www.interfab. co.uk or by phone at 01-386-858-100. Publisher & Editor Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfanow.org or 815-721-1507.
and template with an equally comprehensive site
Circle RS#21 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2014 40 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Here.Now.News. ISFA Annual Award Winners Announced The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) announced the winners of its annual awards at the association’s recent annual meeting and conference in Cancun, Mexico. The ISFA awards are chosen by association members, and given to those in the industry that stand out as the very best.
such as environmentally friendly practices and training, as well as educating and respecting the company’s staff. The other honored winners are:
The Associate of the Year Award is given to an associate member company that in the past year has best exemplified the role of Industry Veteran Jon Olson was Industry Veteran servicing the needs of fabricator inducted into the ISFA Hall of Fame, Jon Olson Inducted member companies, and who has joining a long list of esteemed industry into ISFA Hall of Fame. best supported ISFA in all activities. professionals. The Hall of Fame Award This year’s winner is Moraware for is given to the individual who has, going out of its way to expand the amount of solid in the course of his/her career, made significant information available to fabricators through its contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and has demonstrated leadership and commitment innovative newsletter, blog, podcast (StoneTalk), to the ideals of ISFA. Olson was awarded the honor and its approach to marketing that works to improve industry standards and quality. for contributing significantly to the knowledge base, understanding and awareness of surfacing The Innovator Award is for the member firm or materials such as solid surface and quartz through individual who goes outside the box to create his article writing for several industry magazines, a product or system that enhances the life or his social media outreach, speaking engagements elevates the role of the surface fabricator. The and his various roles in the industry from fabricator 2016 Winner is ArtCor for using its experience and to manufacturer representative to associate at a innovative solid surface design and fabrication well-known material distributor. techniques in Russia to advance the scope and The Fabricator of the Year Award was given to possibilities for the use of solid surface material Augie Chavez of GECKO SSS in San Antonio, around the world. Texas. The Fabricator of the Year is awarded to an The Envision Award is given to the manufacturer individual of a fabricator member company that in member that excels in creating something the past year has best exemplified the ISFA ideals imaginative and special for the surfacing industry. of quality, innovation, character and exemplary The 2016 Winner is Cosentino for developing service to ISFA and/or the decorative surfacing Dekton Large Format Tile, which allows traditional industry, with overall excellence. Chavez earned countertop fabricators to expand into flooring with the award for building a successful commercial a durable, high-quality product that can be used in fabrication business from the ground up, while both interior and exterior applications. maintaining a commitment to social standards,
CEO and Upper Management Gatherings Back by popular demand in 2017 will be ISFA’s CEO and Upper Management Gatherings. These roundtable events usually run two days with a networking event the night before and present opportunities for companies’ executive management to share experiences, common concerns and best practices regarding the processes of running surfacing businesses. The gatherings are designed to bring together small groups of CEOs and upper management from a variety of companies to share ideas and network in a close-knit, semi-structured environment.
The events generally have informal speakers and/or moderators to focus portions of the events on specific topics and to help keep the discussions lively and participatory. So far two of these events have been planned for 2017. The first will take place March 28 to 30 in San Antonio, Texas, and is being hosted by GECKO SSS and Auggie Chavez. The second event is June 6 to 8 in Woburn, Mass., and is being hosted by JCW Countertops and Erica Hussey. Contact the ISFA office for more information at (412) 487-3207 or email info@isfanow.org.
Upcoming ISFA Training & Events
For more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, call (412) 487-3207 or email info@isfanow.org.
ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone March 7 – 10 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA CEO Roundtable March 28 – 30 San Antonio, Texas ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 16 – 19 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA CEO Roundtable June 6 – 8 Woburn, Mass. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 19 – 22 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Dec. 5 – 8 Virginia Beach, Va.
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 41
Circle RS#33 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
ISFANews ISFA 2017 Board of Directors to Take Office January 1
Bryan Stannard Promoted to Executive Director Bryan Stannard was promoted
served as Membership Director.
& Conference. The new board will convene
the position in early November,
was elected to serve as ISFA President, and
served as the Interim Executive
directors elections at its recent Annual Meeting
Stannard officially started in
Jan. 1. Ryan Miller, of VT Stone Surfaces,
replacing Mike Langenderfer who
President. Current
professional with nearly two
of Lincoln Laminating
decades of experience in the
will take the position of
Mike Langenderfer, who
President Adam Albee. “He has
board after having left for
the association. The ISFA Board of
the position as ISFA’s
great job in the role.”
was voted back onto the
a lot of great ideas for advancing
more than a year to take
Directors is confident he will do a
was named Treasurer; and
membership of ISFA, but also the number and depth of member
benefits the association offers,” said Stannard. “I am excited to take on this responsibility and New ISFA Executive Director Bryan Stannard
surfacing industry,” said ISFA
Immediate Past President;
Interim Executive Director,
“My goal is to grow not only the
Director since November of 2015. “Bryan is a knowledgeable
President Adam Albee
inception.
Director, after having previously
ISFA announced the results of its board of
Kate Dillenburg of Bisley Fabrication as Vice
been a member of ISFA since its
to the position of ISFA Executive
Incoming ISFA President Ryan Miller
rounding out the executive committee is Kelley Montana, who is serving as Secretary.
getting out to meet with our
members to find out how we can
better serve them going forward.” After serving faithfully as the
interim director, Langenderfer
was elected to serve on the ISFA Board of Directors, which he has served on in the past in a variety
of roles including President. “We
are thankful for the time and effort Mike put in as the Interim ISFA
Before taking on his previous role
Executive Director,” said Albee.
as ISFA Membership Director, Stannard served a variety of
roles in the surfacing industry
“We are looking forward to having Mike Langenderfer, previous Interim Executive Director
Three board members having fulfilled their terms
including surfacing manager for
Duracite Custom Countertops in California; Dave
America, commercial manager
Michigan; and Erica Hussey of JCW Countertops
for IPS. He has also served three years as an
on the board are stepping down: Mell Hill, of
ITW Polymers Sealants North
Paxton, of Paxton Countertops and Showers in
for DuPont, and strategic account manager
in Massachussetts.
Associate Board Member with ISFA and has
him back on the board where
he can continue to put his skills and experience to work for the association.”
For more information, please feel free to
contact Bryan Stannard directly at bryan@ isfanow.org or (210) 389-2917.
“We are so thankful for the great work Mell, Dave and Erica put in on the board,” said Miller. “We
ISFA’s 2015 Fabricator of the Year, is president
commercial market and is known for being
of Advanced Surfaces, a business he founded
environmentally conscious. Smith is the director
in 1994 to fabricate solid surface that opened
of business development for the L.E. Smith
a second shop in 2007 to supply granite and
Company, a third-generation, family-owned,
The four new members of the board are Augie
quartz surfacing. Chavez, who earned the 2016
premium quality surface fabricator and distributor
Amy Miller of L.E. Smith in Bryan, Ohio; Steve
Mexico and immigrated to the United States
and Matt Kraft of Custom Marble in, Millstadt,
president for GECKO SSS, which focuses on
will miss their insight, but are confident that the
four new board members elected will bring new perspectives and enthusiasm to the group.”
Chavez of GECKO SSS in San Antonio, Texas;
ISFA Fabricator of the Year Award was born in
Stoddard of Advanced Surfaces in Corry, Pa.;
as a child. In 2005 he founded and serves as
Ill. Stoddard, a long-term member of ISFA and
fabricating a variety of materials mostly in the
with more than six decades of service to the construction, cabinetry, millwork and retail industries. Matt Kraft is general manager at Custom Marble, a company founded in 1978 as a manufacturer of cultured marble that expanded in 1989 to fabricate countertops and now works with solid surface, quartz surfacing and granite and services a broad area centering on St. Louis. Rounding out the 2017 board with continuing terms are director Mike Woods of Creative Countertop Solutions in Nashville, Tenn., and associate member representatives John Hansen of Kohler and Jessica McNaughton of
Augie Chavez
Amy Miller
44 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Steve Stoddard
Matt Kraft
CaraGreen.
ISFANews ISFA Annual Meeting Truly International The ISFA Annual Meeting &
attendance. This group, made up
Conference that took place Nov.
of some of China’s largest and
7-11 in Cancun, Mexico, was truly
most respected manufacturers
an international event this year. Not
and fabricators, played a key role
only did the event take place
in the success of the event.
outside of the U.S. borders, but members from at least seven countries were in attendance. Canada, Mexico, Russia, the United Kingdom, Spain, China and, of course, the United States were all represented at the event.
The following ISFA China representatives deserve great thanks for their support and participation of the annual meeting: (listed as shown in photo from left to right) Yang Xiang Guang, managing director;
of Linhai Zhengda Machinery Co.; Allen Yao, president; Steven Luo, executive director/CFO; Kay Yuan, sales manager of Cohui; Fang Zeheng, co-founder of No. 1 Alliance Technology Co. Ltd.; Shangguan Zhaocun,
Of particular significance was a
Ma Liang, sales director of Linhai
large delegation from the newly
Zhengda Machinery Co. Ltd.; Pan
general manager of Linhai Zhengda Machinery Co.; and Chen Zhi Xiong,
established ISFA China that were in
Dongchun, senior sales manager
executive director. Not pictured is Molly Siu, of Cohui.
ISFA Board of Directors Adam Albee President Lincoln Laminating 5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 Phone: (402) 434-6009 adam@lincolnlaminating.com www.lincolnlaminating.com
Erica Hussey Secretary JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 Phone: (781) 935-1907 ericamaria@jcwcountertops.com. www.jcwcountertops.com
Mell Hill Immediate Past President Duracite Custom Countertops 2100 Huntington Blvd. Fairfield, CA 94533 Phone: (707) 290-6386 mhill@duracite.com www.duracite.com
Kate Dillenburg Treasurer Bisley Fabrication 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 Phone: (715) 787-4410 kbisley@bisfab.com www.bisfab.com
Ryan Miller Vice President VT Stone Surfaces 1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 Phone: (712) 368-4381, ext. 236 RMiller@vtindustries.com www.vtstonesurfaces.com
ISFA Contacts
Main Office 2400 Wildwood Rd. Gibsonia, PA 15044 (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 www.isfanow.org
Communications Director Kevin Cole Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor (815) 721-1507 kevin@isfanow.org
Executive Director Bryan Stannard (210) 389-2917 bryan@isfanow.org
Operations Manager Carol Wilhite (412) 487-3207 carol@isfanow.org
Dave Paxton Director (and Past President) Paxton Countertops and Showers PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 Phone: (517) 719-0146 paxtoncountertops@yahoo.com Mike Woods Director Creative Countertop Solutions 919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 (615) 915-0718 mike@tnccs.com www.creativecountersolutions.com Kelley Montana Director Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing 70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-5918 kmontana@humtop.com www.humtop.com
Account Representative Paul Wisnefski (262) 498-4184 wisnefski@sbcglobal.net
John Hansen Associate Member Representative Kohler 3721 Armstrong Dr., Ste. 2B Bloomington, IL 61704 Phone: (920) 207-7701 John.Hansen@kohler.com www.kohler.com Jessica McNaughton Associate Member Representative CaraGreen 109A Brewer Ln. Carrboro, NC 27607 Phone: (919) 929-3009 Jessica@caragreen.com www.caragreen.com
Membership Coordinator Lynn West (412) 487-3207 lynn@isfanow.org
Program Coordinator Amy Kyriazis (412) 487-3207 amy@isfanow.org International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 45
Fabricator Directory Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html. Fischer Tile & Marble Florida Custom Surfaces, Top South ALABAMA Cutstone Co.
117 Cloverdale Dr. Alabaster, AL 35007 205-624-3538 www.cutstoneco.com
1800 23rd St. Sacramento, CA 95816 916-452-1426 www.fischertile.com
Surface One
Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara
ALASKA
Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing
2421 Hwy. 11 Pelham, AL 35124 205-621-1125 www.surface1.com
AMW Construction PO Box 573 Bethel, AK 99559 907-545-3499
Bicknell Inc.
PO Box 33517 Juneau, AK 99801 907-789-5727 www.bicknellinc.com
Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503 907-793-3047 www.cookinlethousing.org
ARIZONA
Kitchen Bath & Beyond
Specializing In Solid Surface 1440 Corona Ft. Mojave, AZ 86426 928-788-1000
ARKANSAS Qualserv
7400 S. 28th St. Ft. Smith, AR 72908 479-459-5892 www.qualservsolutions.com
CALIFORNIA
AZ Countertops Inc.
1560 Harris Ct. 1445 S. Hudson Ave. Ontario, CA 91761 909-983-5386 www.azcountertopsinc.com
Black Rock Construction Services, Inc. 131 E. Berkshire Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93307 323-627-3891 www.blackrockcs.net
Design Fabrication Inc.
100 Bosstick Blvd. San Marco, CA 92069 760-727-1800 www.designfabrication.com
Duracite
2100 Huntington Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-402-1600 www.duracite.com
815 W. Ocean Ave. Lompoc, CA 93436 323-400-1000
70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-442-5918 www.humtop.com
JJ Cabinets
5532 Fir Circle Norwalk, CA 90651 562-881-9715
Marble Expressions
div. of FDR Contractors Inc. 4362 S.W. Port Way Palm City, FL 34990 772-781-5517 www.floridacustomsurfaces.com
General Property Construction Co.
1550 N.W. 96th Ave. Doral, FL 33172 305-592-9570 www.gpconstructionco.com
Natural Stone Motif Inc.
870 Sunshine Ln. Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 407-774-0676 www.naturalstonemotif.com
Simmons Solid Surface LLC 3428 Bartee Rd. Sebring, FL 33870 863-381-3965 http://cabinetrysebring.com/
1573 Seminole St. San Marcos, CA 92708 760-471-8737 www.marbleexpressions.com
Sterling Mfg.
1145 Irving Ave. Glendale, CA 91201 323-400-1000
Surface Crafters
533 S. Fremont Ave. #401 Los Angeles, CA 90071 213-739-9343
GEORGIA
RTA Cabinets
Southwest Carpenters Training Fund
The Countertop Factory
12349 Telegraph Rd. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net
COLORADO Best Tops
1250 N. 3rd St. Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-5187
DELAWARE
Troy Granite Inc.
711 Interchange Blvd. Newark, DE 19711 302-292-1750 www.troygranite.com
FLORIDA
Beverin Solid Surface 1108 Palmetto Ave. Lehigh Acres, FL 33972 239-368-9444 www.beverin.com
Delorie Countertops & Doors Inc.
2140 N.W. 18th St. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-970-7661 www.deloriectd.com
46 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
8293 Consumer Circle Sarasota, FL 34240 941-955-8787 www.sterlingmfg.com 711 Commercial Dr. Holly Hill, FL 32117 386-253-0826 www.surface-crafters.com
Atlanta Kitchen Inc.
196 Rio Circle Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3220 www.atlanta-kitchen.com
Counter Fitters LLC
830 Pickens Industrial Dr. Marietta, GA 30062 770-422-4009 www.topsouth.com
HAWAII
Cultured Marble
1726 Republican St. Honolulu, HI, 96819 808-832-2535
Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc. 1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775
Solid Surface Technologies 360 Mokauea St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-8677 www.ssthawaii.com
ILLINOIS
Custom Marble Inc.
PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net
Dirk Foster
802 S. 26th St. Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 206-898-8163
Knapp Tile and Flooring
105 S. Main Eureka, IL 61530 309-467-9700 www.knapptileandflooring.com
Maxwell Counters, Inc. PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848
1026 Lynes Ave. Savannah, GA 31415 912-231-0103 www.counterfitterssav.com
New Age Surfaces
Countersync
Pierce Laminated Products Inc.
2014 Westside Ct. Augusta, GA 30907 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net
Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc. 2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com
Seven Stone
1400 W. Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 404-355-3108 www.sevenstone.com
Stone Center
1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com
1237 Naperville Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-226-0011
2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com
Solid Surface Creations Inc. 403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com
Sprovieri’s Custom Cabinets 55 Laura Dr. Addison, IL 60101 630-917-4690 www.sprovieris.com
Stalwart Systems
7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-1193 www.stalwartsystemsusa.com
Stevens Industries Inc. 704 W. Main St. Teutopolis, IL 62427 217-857-7100 www.stevensind.com
INDIANA
A. I. A. Countertops LLC 501 W. Railroad Ave. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com
Bollock Enterprises LLC 900 Farabee Ct. Lafayette, IN 47905 765-448-6000 www.bollockstoptops.com
Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.
711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401 812-824-6299 www.rakesolutions.com
M & W Countertops Inc. 11934 Witmer Rd. Grabill, IN 46741 260-627-3636 www.mwcountertops.com
Michiana Laminated Products Inc.
7130 N. 050 E. Howe, IN 46746 260-562-2871 www.michianalaminated.com
IOWA
Solid Fabrications Inc. 2515 Murray St. Sioux City, IA 51111 712-255-5319 www.solidfab.com
Surface Solutions Inc.
323 La Porte Rd. Waterloo, IA 50702 319-287-5056 www.surfacesolutionsia.com
VT Industries
1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com
KANSAS
Parman Brothers LTD
Surfaces Unlimited Inc.
1272 Hwy. 490 E. Bernstadt, KY 40729 606-843-6891 www.surfaces-unlimited.com
MAINE
Maine Marble & Granite 1312 Portland Rd. Arundel, ME 04046 207-351-5733 www.thomasandlord.com
Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc. 11 Collins Pond Rd. Windham, ME 04062 207-893-3445 www.getshad.com
MARYLAND
Carefree Kitchens Inc.
2910 Strickland St. Baltimore, MD 21223 410-233-4900 www.carefreeindustries.com
Creative Surface Interiors Inc. 8393 Ardwick Ardmore Rd. Landover, MD 20785 301-386-4654 www.creativesurfaceinteriors.net
SolidTops LLC
505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com
MASSACHUSETTS
Jack’s Custom Woodworking/ JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com
Marble & Granite, Inc.
270 University Ave. Westwood, MA 02090 781-407-9560 www.marbleandgranite.com
PADCO Countertop Co. 5 Springdale Ave. Canton, MA 02021 781-828-1177 www.padcocountertop.com
Sterling Architectural Millwork
PO Box 7 Johnson, KS 67855 620-492-6882 www.parmanbrothersltd.com
55 Avocado St. Springfield, MA 01104 413-732-2131 www.sterlingarc.com
2844 Roe Ln. Kansas City, KS 66103 913-492-3030 www.top-master.com
76 Leominster Rd. Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-3321 www.sterlingsurfaces.com
Top Master Inc.
KENTUCKY
Granite America
1121 St. Louis Ave. Louisville, KY 40241 502-419-0713
Sterling Surfaces
Sterling-Miller Designs Inc. 1079 N. Montello St. Brockton, MA 02301 508-894-6999 www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com
MONTANA
TWD Surfaces
Jim Shreve
75 Hale St. Bridgewater, MA 02324 508-279-2650 www.twdsurfaces.com
PO Box 721 Florence, MT 59833 406-880-3566
VanSetten Walker Construction Co.
MICHIGAN Blasius Inc.
821 1st Ave. N.W. Great Falls, MT 59404 406-570-5283
7343 Buell Rd. Vassar, MI 48768 989-871-5000 www.blasiusinc.com
WoodCo LLC
Innovative Surface Works
12855 Fairlane St. Livonia, MI 48150 734-261-3010 www.innovativesurfaceworks.com
Marbelite Corp.
PO Box 30254 Billings, MT 59107 406-259-5177 www.woodcollc.com
NEBRASKA
Builders Warehouse 4600 N. Second Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 308-627-6702
22500 Heslip Dr. Novi, MI 48375 248-348-1900 www.marbelitecorp.com
Lincoln Laminating Inc. 5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009
Paxton Countertops & Showers
PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146 www.paxtonsurfaces.com
Premier Countertops
Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.
NEVADA
6689 Sterling Dr. S. Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-274-9668 www.ssunlimited.net
MINNESOTA
Innovative Surfaces Inc. 515 Spiral Blvd. Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004
The Pinske Edge
Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund
6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111
NEW JERSEY
J&M Granite Design LLC 558 Englishtown Rd. Monroe, NJ 08831 908-267-4331 www.jmgranitenj.com
Marvic Corp.
119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com
2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com
MISSISSIPPI
Solid Surface Designs Inc.
Alexander Counterwrights
903 Ingalls Ave. Pascagoula, MS 39567 228-938-6484 www.alexandercounterwrights.com
MISSOURI
Cohen Architectural Woodworking
9 Industrial Dr. St. James, MO 65559 573-265-7070 www.cohenwoodworking.com
Surface Menders
8720 L St. Omaha, NE 68127 402-991-7258 www.premiercountertops.com
32 Clipper Ln. Kimberling City, MO 65686 417-598-2390 www.surfacemend.com
1651 Sherman Ave. Pennsauken, NJ 08110 856-910-7720 www.ssdtops.com
Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy. Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com
NEW MEXICO
American Countertops 8013 Edith N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-897-3141
Franken Construction Co. 1201 Tilden Ave. Las Vegas, NM 87701 www.frankenconstruction.com
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 47
Fabricator Directory Fabricator Directory
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html. Jaynes Structures
2906 Broadway N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87107 505-344-8589 www.jaynescorp.com
OGB Architectural Millwork 3711 Paseo del Norte Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-998-0000 www.ogb-am.com
Rojo Enterprises LLC PO Box 429 Roswell, NM 88202 505-626-3553
NEW YORK
Distinctive Granite
331 Dante Ct. Ste. C Holbrook, NY 117411 631-737-3337 www.distinctivegraniteny.com
Evans & Paul LLC
140 DuPont St. Plainview, NY 11803 516-576-0800 www.evansandpaul.com
Marker Systems Inc.
940 River Rd. North Tonawanda, NY 14120 716-695-1102
OHIO
OKLAHOMA
9355 Amsterdam Rd. Anna, OH 45302 937-538-7024
6031 S. 129th St. Ste. B Tulsa, OK 74134 918-252-0451 www.hfccountertops.com
Bertke Countertops
Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.
1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com
Earth Anatomy Fabrication 4092 Greenwich Rd. Norton, OH 44203 740-244-5316 www.earthanatomy.com
Kitchens by Rutenschroer
950 Laidlaw Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45237 513-251-8333 www.kbrmfg.com
13570 Broadway Ave. Midland, NC 28107 704-888-4010 www.carolinacounters.com
Johnson Granite Inc. PO Box 511 589 Hiatt Rd. Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-719-2729
Merge Design Co.
3001-103 Spring Forest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27616 919-790-1749 www.mergedesignco.com
Seven Stone
8350-C Arrowridge Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28273 704-598-1255 www.sevenstone.com
Seven Stone
920 Old Winston Rd. Kernersville, NC 27284 336-773-0714 www.sevenstone.com
Precision Countertops Inc.
PO Box 387 Wilsonville, OR 97070 503-692-6660 www.precisioncountertops.com
PENNSYLVANIA Satis&fy
L. E. Smith Co.
Laminate Shop, Inc.
Carolina Counters
PO Box 258 Glide, OR 97443 541-496-0313 www.grifform.com
350 South St. McSherrystown, PA 17344 717-630-1251 www.asst.com
4561 Crystal Pkwy. Kent, OH 44240 330-677-1883 www.korkangranite.com
Penn Fabricators Inc.
NORTH CAROLINA
Grifform Innovations Inc.
Korkan Granite
PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523
100 Bellport Ave. Yaphank, NY 11980 631-205-0282 www.penn4corian.com
OREGON
3550 N.W. 215th Ave. Hillsboro, OR 97124 971-570-9800 www.satis-fy.com
1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com
Modern Home Distributing
Hoffman Fixtures Co.
PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536
Solid Surfaces Plus
ASST
Advanced Surfaces Inc. 130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 814-663-0369
Armina Stone
870 Rte. 910 Unit 400 Cheswick, PA 150244 412-406-8442 www.arminastone.com
4640 Manufacturing Rd. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-267-7040 www.solidsurfacesplus.com
Capital City Counters Inc.
10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net
Harrisburg Troy Granite
The Countertop Shop LTD
Top Advantage Surfaces Inc.
12989 Market Ave. N. Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-2138 www.topadvantage.com
Top Shelf Laminated Products
760 N. Front St. PO Box 7616 Steelton, PA 17113 717-939-2878 www.capitalcitycounters.com 3617 Simpson Ferry Rd. Camp Hill, PA 17011 717-918-3315 www.troygranite.com
PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com
Kauffman Kitchens
400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289
PO Box 647 Massillon, OH 44648 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com
576 Rosedale Rd. Kennett Square, PA 19349 610-444-1512 www.mcgroryinc.com
48 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609 www.pencecountertops.com
Pittsburgh Troy Granite 1060 484 Lowries Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-446-1060 www.troygranite.com
RHODE ISLAND Allied Floor Covering, Inc.
Tiverton, RI 02878 401-624-4477 www.alliedfloorcovveringinc.com
SOUTH CAROLINA Seven Stone
1900 Suber Mill Rd. Greer, SC 29650 864-879-9378 www.sevenstone.com
Solid Products
109 Lazenby Dr. Ft. Mill, SC 29715 704-236-9796 www.solidproducts.biz
Tom Rush
109 Lazenby Dr. Ft. Mill, SC 29715 704-236-9796 www.solidproducts.biz
SOUTH DAKOTA
DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co. 45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com
Formatop Co.
101 S. Franklin Sioux Falls, SD 57103 605-332-3151 www.formatopcompany.com
TENNESSEE
Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.
1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101
John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc. Memphis, TN 38114
270 Commerce Dr. New Holland, PA 17557 717-355-9906 www.kauffmankitchen.com
Tower Industries
Pence Countertops Inc.
McGrory Inc.
901-278-9626 www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com
Countertops of Memphis
301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis TN 38106 901-602-7115 www.countertopsofmemphis.com
Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.
919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 615-915-0718 www.creativecountersolutions.com
Kitchen Tops
1300 Ault Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914 805-523-0967 www.kitchentops.net
Seven Stone
740 Space Park Dr. S. Nashville, TN 37211 615-386-0509 www.sevenstone.com
TEXAS
Advanced Fixtures Inc.
Mid-Atlantic Mfg. Inc.
10040 Whitesel Rd. Ashland, VA 23005 804-798-7462 http://midatlanticmfg.com
Surface Link Corp.
4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com
TRINDCO
2655 E. Audie Murph Pkwy. Farmersville, TX 75442 972-784-8800 www.advancedfixtures.com
1004 Obici Industrial Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23434 757-539-0262 www.trindco.com
6418 Harbor Mist Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459 970-471-4393
FloForm Countertops
Alejandro Contreras
Ba Shi Ba Inc.
38303 Green Willow Way Magnolia, TX 77355 281-881-2911
Classic Counter Tops 2325 Executive Dr. Garland, TX 75041 972-840-1234
Counterscapes, Inc. PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 903-581-5676
Countertop Solutions LLC PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080
Elite Granite & Marble 455 Commercial Dr. Buda, TX 78610 512-328-5111 www.elitegraniteand marbleaustin.com
Gecko Solid Surface Solutions
4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 210-227-3100 www.geckosss.com
Patel Inc.
2306 Sunset Tr. Sugarland, TX 77478
W.R. Watson Inc.
12902 Mula Ln. Stafford, TX 77477 281-495-3664 www.wrwatson.com
UTAH
Utah Kitchen and Bath
2098 E. 2250 N. Layton, UT 84040 801-814-8847 www.utahkitchenandbath.com
VIRGINIA
Metro Stone Works LLC 9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com
WASHINGTON 22445 76th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 253-639-4567 www.floform.com
Hughes Home Concepts LLC
865 Carlsborg Rd. Ste. C-2 Sequim, WA 98382 360-683-2318 www.hugheshomeconcepts.com
Mt. Rainer Marble LLC 2606 Jackson Hwy. Chehalisi, WA 98523 360-520-1844 www.mtrainiermarble.com
WISCONSIN ACS Int’l.
1478 Turnberry Circle Oconomowoc, WI 53066 520-395-7534 www.acstone.com
Bisley Fabrication Inc. 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 715-787-4410 www.bisfab.com
McDermott Top Shop LLC
200 A Main St. Sullivan, WI 53178 262-593-2456
Spectrum Surfaces Inc. 812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 920-337-6575
AUSTRALIA
Asian Solid Surface
40 Day Dr. Pasadena, South Australia 5042 Australia 040-571-3865
BARBADOS
In-Counter, Inc.
27 Lodge Terrace St. Michaels BB12001 Barbados 246-253-3440
CANADA
LEBANON
609 Alpha St. Victoria, BC V8Z 1B2 Canada 250-383-1926 http://colonialcountertops.com
1st Floor Missirian Bldg. Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414
Colonial Countertops Ltd.
Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc. PO Box 40 99 Harrison St. Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0 Canada 519-461-0100
Respond S.A.L.
MEXICO INDEKO
Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 52-3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx
Victor Coronado Services
FloForm Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada 204-474-2334 www.floform.com
Boulevard Hacienda Galindo 116 Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230 Mexico 52-4422342743
FloForm Countertops
RUSSIA
10-710 Cynthia St. Saskatoon, SK S7l 6A2 Canada 306-665-7733 www.floform.com
AKRILIKA HOLDING
FloForm Countertops
Svobody St., 29 Moscow Russia 125362 +7(495)782-84-75 http://akrilika.com/en
Granit Design
60th km. Ring Rd. Ste. 4A Moscow Russia +7-485-657-8578 www.artcor.ru
Shape Industries
Komendantsky pr., 4A/2 St. Petersburg Russia 197227 +7 812-922-4070 www.decora.pro
7630 Yellowhead Trail Edmonton, AB T5B 1G3 Canada 780-474-7999 www.floform.com
ARTCOR
77 Industrielle Stanstead, QC J0B 3E0 Canada 819-564-7111 www.granitdesign.com
DECORA PRO
SINGAPORE
10 McPhillips St. Winnipeg, MB R3E2J7 Canada 204-947-0409 www.shapeinc.com
Harvest Building Products PTE LTD
Summum Granit Inc.
460 Principale St. Saint-Sebastien, QC G0Y 1M0 819-625-2333 Canada www.summumgranit.com
FRANCE
CREA Diffusion
ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com
61 Woodlands Industrial Park, E9 Singapore 757047 +659-797-3011 www.hbp.com.sg
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Bond Interiors
PO Box 15758 Dubai U.A.E. 04 2711727, 06 5343222 www.bondinteriors.com
UNITED KINGDOM Interfab LTD
ITALY
Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)
Via Dell’Industria 13-15 Piovene Rocchette, VI, 36013 Italy 39-0445-551500 www.legnopan.com
Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk
International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 49
Product News Park Industries Introduces FASTBACK II Flat Edge Shaper and Polisher Park Industries introduced the FASTBACK® II Edge Shaper and Polisher. The company states that in a single pass, the FASTBACK II will edge, polish and chamfer countertops and backsplash at a rate of up to 150 lineal ft. per hour. This machine can manage material that is 1cm to 6cm thick, 16 in. to 12 ft. long, and 3 in. to 30+ in. wide, producing straight flat edges to 45-degree chamfer top and bottom edge corners up to 1/16 in. The FASTBACK II’s exclusive Spindle Stagger feature allows an operator to adjust the point at which the tool engages and disengages with the leading and trailing ends of the material, helping to ensure consistent and total polish end-to-end, which is essential for tightly nested slab layouts. New features on the FASTBACK II include intuitive touchscreen controls, optimized oscillation, exclusive Armor Shield protection and metrics tracking capabilities. Circle RS#35 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Hanex Solid Surfaces Debuts New Stratum Collection
Hanwha Surfaces introduced the Stratum Collection by Hanex Solid Surfaces, the company’s solid surfaces division. The collection’s six new colors fuse versatility with beauty, inspired by diverse conversations with architects and designers to create innovative commercial and residential acrylic surfacing. Styles include soft veining and movement that adds a sophisticated element to interior spaces. Six colors and patterns in the collection are: 50 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Clara, a serene white color; Marelinho, with soft touches of realistic veining twisting through a warm sand color; Nublado, with a drifting wavy pattern and light gray palette; Adosia, a silky gray base with soft, rippling notes; Moreno, featuring earth tones and flowing strata; and Grenicio, with gray coloring and wispy veining. The surfaces are stain-resistant and nonporous, making them suitable for commercial applications. Circle RS#36 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Lackmond Stone Introduces New Beast Pro+ Bridge Saw Blade Lackmond Stone introduced the new Beast Pro+ Bridge Saw Blade. The blade is designed with a specific pattern diamond technology that allows for the maximum placement of diamond on the cutting edge at all times. This results in a fast, clean and consistent performance from the first to the final cut. According to the company, the blade is suitable for cutting granite, engineered stone and other natural stone. Its new segment design and configuration allows for reduced chipping and a quieter operation. It is equipped with a large 25mm segment height for extended life. The blades are also reportedly fast, aggressive and consistent. They are available in 12-in. through 20-in. sizes and are designed to be used wet.
directional veined-patterns in popular hues and colors. Comprised of color-controlled, natural quartz, Radianz will enrich any interior space and is suitable for high-use countertops, work surfaces, furniture and many other interior applications. Engineered for durability and inspired by elements found in nature, the quartz surfaces are backed by a limited commercial-use warranty and are NSF and Greenguard Certified. Circle RS#38 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Improved Metabo Grinders Available from GranQuartz GrandQuartz is now offering re-engineered Metabo grinders. The improved grinders reportedly provide more torque and power with less vibration, allowing for improved work speeds. According to the company, the grinders now provide up to 50 percent more torque than the previous generation, up to 20 percent more power than previous models and up to 20 percent more overload capacity in extreme applications. The grinders are also equipped with a patented mechanical safety slip clutch that reduces the risk of grinder kickback. The anti-vibration systems can reduce hand/arm vibrations by 60 percent and extend wheel and tool life up to 100 percent (not standard on WEV-10-125). Circle RS#39 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#37 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Lotte Advanced Materials Offers New Marble Inspired Radianz Quartz Surfaces Lotte Advanced Materials offers the new Radianz® Marble Collection featuring free-form,
Laser Products Partners with Northwood Designs’ Slabsmith Laser Products partnered with Northwood Designs to develop, distribute and support customized applications of its Slabsmith
dimensions and unique slab properties.
Aristech Introduces 12 New Design Options
The software provides users with
Aristech Surfaces is
technology for individual countertop fabricators. Slabsmith is a slab matching and management tool that uses photographs to produce digital slabs that are highly accurate in color,
an inventory management tool that reportedly optimizes slab usage, significantly reduces waste and streamlines countertop manufacturing. Under the terms of the agreement, in addition to Slabsmith sales, Laser Products will assist customers with the requisition and setup of the photography and studio equipment needed to optimize Slabsmith; and will also build customized computer systems that integrate with existing corporate administrative programs; and conduct on-site training sessions. Circle RS#40 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
introducing 12 all-
categorized into three collections. The Elements Series includes the new translucent veined
colors Tempest, Ocean Breeze, Jet Stream,
and Rose Quartz; The Mosaics Series includes Terrazzo and Crushed Garnet; and the Frosted Glass Series includes Citron, Harbor Fog,
Catalina, Pewter, Grenadine and Pure Aqua.
Custom colors are also available through the
new architectural and design materials under the
company’s Chromatix™ program.
The collection features designs with movement and texture, ultra-translucency and terrazzo-
inspired looks that bring a unique aesthetic for
Houzer Releases Project Sink Catalog
interior design. According to the company, these
Houzer recently announced
newly formulated polymer materials combine a
publication of its Project Sink
striking design look with a formable, repairable
Catalog. This 12-page electronic
and seamable surface. Applications include
project catalog is designed
room dividers and partitions, store fixtures,
to be used by architects and
column wraps, illumination, countertops and
accent pieces where lighting and aesthetics are
designers, as well as those in the
key elements of design. Twelve new colors are
hospitality industry to review the
company’s offerings of sinks in 15 distinct series.
Studio Collection™ by Avonite Surfaces brand.
Circle RS#22 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#41 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#23 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 51
Product News 3D Honed, Gray
These sink series provide a broad range of configurations, styles, colors and textures
Oak Splitface,
that allow design professionals to bring
Gray Oak 3D
their visions to life. The sink designs are
Honed, Mountain
available in stainless steel, granite, fireclay,
Bluestone
hammered copper and porcelain enameled
Splitface, Princess
steel. Designs range from traditional,
White Splitface,
utility-focused top mounts to cutting-
Statuarietto
edge undermount designs. The catalog is
available for viewing online at Houzer’s website. Circle RS#42 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Capri 3D Honed and White Oak Multi Finish. Stacked stone’s natural beauty and dimension lends warmth
MS International Introduces Stacked Stone Colors
and architectural detail to any space. According to the company, it is also impressively durable
MSI added 12 new natural stone colors to its
and versatile, making it suitable for a range
Alaska Gray 3D Honed, Arctic Golden Splitface,
accent walls, backsplashes, home facades and
Honed, Coal Canyon 3D Honed, Glacial Black
Circle RS#43 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Stacked Stone Collection. The fresh colors are:
of interior and exterior applications, such as
Arctic White 3D Honed, Calacatta Cressa 3D
barbeque islands.
LG Hausys Introduces Musica Collection Styles LG Hausys introduced four new styles in the Musica Collection of Viatera Quartz Surfacing. The new Musica Renewal Collection features a rich combination of large-movement and marble-like patterns and shades of earth and rock. Inspired by the complexity and beauty of orchestral music, the styles are: Lento, a smoky
Circle RS#32 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. 52 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Circle RS#15 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Product News gray backdrop with hints of warm beige tones; Clarino, a warm white background contrasted with gold toned veins; Quartet, a spectrum of subtle shades of gray; and Waltz, a warm beige background accented with marbling in rich brown and dynamic white tones.
a pad protector designed for minimizing pad
Circle RS#44 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
and have step-less variable speed from 6,000
damage and protecting adjacent surfaces, a
rubberized over-grip, a bayonet-style dust port connection and an optional, reusable Longlife Filter Bag with quick release. The sanders are
designed for one-handed use for fine finishing to 12,000 rpm with a sanding stroke of 2mm.
Festool Introduces New Compact Orbital Sanders
The redesigned dust port provides a robust and secure connection point for improved retention and hassle-free sanding.
Circle RS#45 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
JM Lifestyles Introduces WoodForm Concrete Surfacing
Festool USA and Festool Canada introduced two new 250-watt orbital sanders: the DTS 400 REQ and the RTS 400 REQ. At 2.5 lbs., the sanders are compact and lightweight and feature a 25 percent increase in power over previous models as well as Festool’s MMC electronics. Other new features include
diverse applications such as vanities, countertops, islands, tubs, shower seats, and more. It contains more than 50 percent recycled content, accumulates 0 percent waste in its production, has a long life span and uses a low amount of energy in its production, which reduces the carbon footprint of the product. Circle RS#46 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
that reportedly looks like wood and acts like
Kongder Adhesive Offers Adhesives for Most Surfacing Materials
split, crack, splinter, stain or rot. Multiple
adhesive for use on a variety of materials
are available. This product can be used in
porcelain and ceramics. Kongder provides a
JM Lifestyles introduced a unique product called WoodForm Concrete. WoodForm
Concrete is a lightweight engineered composite stone. According to the company, it will not
Kongder Adhesive supplies 100 percent acrylic
color choices, edge details and accessories
including solid surface, quartz, granite, marble,
Circle RS#24 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. 54 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
10-year
Hydroment
Each support
warranty
Vivid’s rapid
can hold 200
of non-
yellowing
and stable color. The company
states that its adhesives are durable and maintain a 15-month shelf life. The adhesives are available in more than 500 colors and have received an SGS certificate of approval.
Circle RS#47 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Federal Brace Presents the Titus Floating Vanity Support Bracket
curing trait
lbs., allowing
makes it
users to safely
ready for foot
mount thick
traffic in just
granite, quartz,
four hours.
marble and other natural stone alone or along with the vanity cabinet. The braces are made of galvanized
Additionally, it exceeds requirements of
ANSI A118.7 and contains Bostik’s patented
steel for protection in humid areas.
Blockade™ Antimicrobial Protection.
Circle RS#48 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#49 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Bostik Introduces Hydroment Vivid High-grade Grout Bostik, Inc., a manufacturer of adhesives and
ATI Decorative Laminates Expands Manufacturing Capabilities
sealants, introduced Hydroment® Vivid™, a
ATI Decorative
The Titus Vanity support bracket from Federal
rapid curing, premium grade, cement-based
to the wall for a floating vanity installation. The
According to the company, it offers consistent
the cabinet on the right and left side of cabinet,
protection. It is fiber reinforced for increased
Brace is suitable for mounting a vanity cabinet
grout for demanding kitchen and bath projects.
support bracket reportedly mounts easily inside
color technology with stain and efflorescence
leaving room for under mount sinks and pipes.
crack resistance and nonsag properties.
Laminate expanded its manufacturing capabilities by
adding 4-ft. by
10-ft. sheets to its MirroFlex™
ISFA Member since 1998 Circle RS#25 on Readers Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#26 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 55
Product News Structures product line. Customers can now create beautiful designs for larger spaces. Most panels also feature the BIO (Built In Overlap), a unique seam system that makes installation easy and creates less visible seams. These decorative wall panels have no minimum order quantity and are ready to ship in three to four weeks.
residential architecture. Among these stone designs is the newest addition, Bronze Amani, a variation that originates from a quarry in Spain and contains an assortment of rich earth tones. Available in Polished, Leather and Antique finishes, Bronze Amani displays a color palette of classic yet bold patterns and textures.
Circle RS#50 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#51 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Sappi North America Releases Commercial Casting and Release Paper with BacteriaInhibition Technology Antolini Introduces Bronze Amani Antolini’s Exclusive Collection is a unique offering of natural stone surface materials designed to complement today’s modern
Sappi North America, a producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, has entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement with Sharklet Technologies, Inc. to manufacture and distribute casting and release paper featuring Sharklet™
microtexture. According to the company, the new release paper is the first of its kind that creates surfaces that inhibit bacterial growth without the use of toxic additives or chemicals. The product will be the first in Sappi’s new Neoterix™ line and will be available to customers under the name Neoterix ST. The patented Sharklet microtexture is biomimicry in action as it is inspired by the texture of shark skin. Shark’s skin features a texture and pattern that naturally slows the growth of barnacles and algae. According to a published study in Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control, when applied to high touch surfaces, the microtexture reduced surface contamination of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) by as much as 97 percent and 94 percent, respectively, compared to controls. Circle RS#52 on page 56 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
Circle RS#27 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 56 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
Circle RS#28 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • 57
Classifieds
Don’t Miss These Upcoming ISFA Events! ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone March 7 – 10 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA CEO Roundtable March 28 – 30 San Antonio, Texas ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 16 – 19 Virginia Beach, Va.
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ISFA CEO Roundtable June 6 – 8 Woburn, Mass. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 19 – 22 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Dec. 5 – 8 Virginia Beach, Va.
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58 • Vol. 9 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association
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Ad Index Referral # 12 14 3 22 24 26 5 23 28 29 27 18 4 1 31 10 8 32 17 13 20 16 33 2 11 9 25 21 6 7 11 19
Page #
Architectural Products by Outwater Artisan Manufacturing BACA Beckart Environmental, Inc. Betterley Industries, Inc. Better Vacuum Cups BLANCO Chemcore Industries Chemcore Industires Cosentino CountertopResource.com ETemplate Systems Glass Recycled Surfaces GlueWarehouse.com Integra Adhesives Hanwha L&C Surfaces HOUZER Jerong Karran USA KRION LAMINAM Laser Products MaqStone MSI Neolith Park Industries Performance Abrasives QuartzSource Regent Stone Revere TheSize Water Treatment Solutions
22 24 5 51 54 55 9 51 56 59 56 35 7 2 60 18 15 52 31 23 39 27 42 3 21 17 55 40 11 13 21 36
Circle RS#29 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 1998
Circle RS#31 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.
ISFA Member since 2003