ISFA Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, Vol. 5, Issue 2

Volume 5 • Issue 2 • sIngle Issue $14.95

Think Zinc Exotic Metals for Countertops 4

Copper as a Countertop Material Page 19

Taking Green Up the Chain Page 20

Writing the Killer Sales Plan Page 22

Fabricator Profile: Countertop Shop Page 30

Circle RS#01 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 3

Letters to the EditorCountertops & 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.

Please send letters to [email protected] or to Letters, ISFA, 165 N 1330 W Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057 or fax to (801) 341-7361 attention: Editor. Include a telephone number and address (preferable 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 [email protected] or mail to ISFA, 165 N 1330 W Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057 or fax to (801) 341-7361 attention: Editor. Contacting ISFAPhone: (801) 341-7360Toll Free: (877) 464-7732Fax: (801) [email protected]

About this MagazineCountertops & Architectural Surfaces is published quarterly by theInternational 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 (877) 464-7732. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2012. 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, self-addressed 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 Lehi, Utah, 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, 165 N. 1330 W., Unit A3, Orem, UT 84057.

Photography 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.

Photography/graphics provided by: Mio Metals, Sterling Surfaces, The Countertop Shop, Abet Laminati, DuPont and Fred Hueston.

Magazine CreditsPublisher & Editor: Kevin ColeProofreader: Nancy Mueller-TruaxDesign: Velasco & Associates

ISFA Officers of the BoardRuss Berry, PresidentMike Langenderfer, Vice PresidentJoe Hoffman, SecretaryDave Paxton, TreasurerHunter Adams, Immediate Past President

ISFA DirectorsMike Nolan, DirectorMartin Funck, Director Jon Blasius, DirectorChristina Humiston, Director Mark Anderson, Associate Member Rep. Michael Astill, Associate Member Rep.

ISFA StaffKevin Cole, Communications Director Mike Nolan, Director of Education Paul Wisnefski, Sales AssociateMeg Pettingill, Administrative Assistant

Cover PhotoThis zinc bar from the Red Lion Inn in Sacramento featuring a bull nose edge is part of a trend toward exotic metals in high-end applications. Mio Metals of Sonoma, Calif., is one of a handful of companies on the edge of this trend. Read the full story on Page 14.

CREDITS

4 • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • International Surface Fabricators Association

CONTENTSFeatures14 Zinc Surfacing Plays Critical Role in Restaurant Design Mio Metals expounds on the choice of zinc as a countertop material.

19 Copper Tops: Copper as a Countertop Material What’s the story behind copper?

20 Taking Green up the Chain DuPont achieves zero landfill status in Building Innovations business.

22 Writing the Killer Sales Plan Sales planning could be your ticket to success.

30 FabricatorProfile A look at The Countertop Shop in Holland, Ohio.

34 Compact Grade Panels Could this be the next new thing in laminate?

Departments 6 From the Editor

7 Letter to the Editor

8 President’sLetter

9 Calendar of Events

10 Industry News

24 Shop Management Matters

26 Education Connection

36 ISFA News

40 ISFA Fabricator Directory

45 Product News

49 Reader Service Form

50 Classifieds/AdIndex

14

19

20

30 34


Summer is once again upon us, bringing thoughts of cookouts, sunny days and summer vacations. Many people take advantage of the warm weather and vacation days to renovate, which can translate into more business for those working in the surfacing industry. But summertime also means more teens are enrolling the workforce, taking on summer jobs. New high school graduates are breaking into the trades, as well as college students wanting to earn some summer cash. They are likely to be inexperienced around potential shop hazards, which means more than ever it may be critical to consider safety.

According to government statistics, more than 70 percent of teenagers take on work during their high school years, and, of course, employment peaks during the summer. Maybe you have brought in some eager youth to assist around the shop? If so, keep in mind that for most teens, a job isn’t a livelihood — yet — but perhaps a short-term source of income to fund their out-of-school celebrations. Many of these youths are short-term employees, or maybe long-term employees that don’t know it yet, but one thing most of them are not is overly careful.

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates around 250,000 workers under the age of 18 will be injured on the job this year; as many as 70 of them will die. Did you know that two teen workers are injured on the job every minute?

Like all good employers, I know your shop is big on safety. Everyone uses their safety glasses at all times, and everyone is consistently vigilant in avoiding jury and following proper safety

procedures at all times. However, not all shops are. With statistics like these, safety comes to the forefront.

And really, it isn’t just about teenagers or even new employees. Safety is about everyone. There is no middle ground when it comes to safety; there is no “kind of safe” — either you’re being safe or you aren’t. There is no amount of savings, either time or money, that is worth the loss of life or limb.

We all know how easy it is to cut corners and how enticing it can be to work quickly instead of safely. When an employee in your shop sees others working around the material safety data sheets (MSDS) rather than with them, and without the correct personal protective equipment (PPS), he or she has been started on the path toward potential injury. Safety requires that we lead by example, even if it takes a little more time or effort.

I know how important your business is and hope it is profitable and productive. I sincerely hope you have an enjoyable summer full of great memories, but more than that, I hope you have a safe one for you and your employees, short- or long-term.

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher

[email protected]

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

Play It Safe This Summer


Letter to the EditorDear Editor:

I must respectfully disagree with my friend Jon Olsen, author of “Considerations When Competing Against the Big Box Stores” (Vol. 5, Issue 1), when he said, “Box stores aren’t really getting stock for cheaper; they just push the deals the distributors make available.”

Put yourself in the buying position of the big box stores. If you knew you were going to be buying solid surface and quartz by the boxcar, wouldn’t you use that level of volume to leverage highly discounted prices directly from manufacturers? Of course you would. Any less would be bad business.

While I don’t know where Jon is getting his information, I’m getting mine from experience as a Certified DuPont Fabricator. Years ago, when bidding a top for a large restaurant chain, my distributor told me the chain had negotiated special pricing directly with DuPont. It was considerably lower than my normal sheet price. Years later, as an employee of a large fabricator with a contract with a national home builder, we tracked the sheet numbers, the quantities, the addresses and other information of the material used on the jobs of the home builder for submission to the distributor. This documentation kept us from using the heavily discounted material on our other jobs.

Jon also suggests to “…take advantage of leftover material. If you do, you won’t need to buy as much stock.” Unfortunately, if you are a fabricator of a certain major quartz product for a blue big box, you are required by the manufacturer to buy all the material required for each individual job. The leftover half sheet from the previous job may make a nice vanity for your retail customer, but you’ll not be using it on the next blue box job, even if the sheet sequence and particulate match are perfect. The manufacturer’s profit goes up and into their bank account, while yours leans in a rack.

Jon mentions the solid surface colors that are exclusive to the big box stores, and I can recall seamed undermount sink discounts offered by Home Depot that the distributor didn’t offer to other fabricators. Exclusivity and special discounts are the result of volume clout at the negotiating table.

Jon also suggests lowering top removal prices to beat the big boxes. The big boxes have told the manufacturers they will not be beat on price, and the manufacturers have wisely acquiesced. Fortunately, customers do not buy based strictly on price, at least not the customers you want. The customers you want buy based on value. It isn’t easy to sell value over price or everyone could do it. However, it must be done. Determine your exclusive value proposition and sell it.

Sincerely, Joseph Corlett

Dear Joseph: Thanks for your letter. You certainly make some good points. In response, we talked to Jon to get his take on your point of view. Below is what he had to say. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Sincerely, Kevin Cole, Editor

While I certainly appreciate Joe’s thoughts, I’m not sure he’s comparing apples to apples. I believe the prices a fabricator receives for a large restaurant chain’s account or that of a national builder would not be the same as a fabricator working for a box store. Interestingly, I recently needed to purchase roofing materials. I received a price from a box store and a price from a local lumberyard. The box store price was $400.00 higher. Of course, roofing materials aren’t countertop materials either.

Also, as a box store fabricator we were never asked to buy a certain amount of material for any particular job. If we used leftover material to do a job, that was up to us. Of course, we worked with solid surface, so the particular quartz manufacturer may have such a policy. Generally, though, I see using outfall as a good way to keep costs down.

I will not argue that we shouldn’t sell on value and that it isn’t always about price, but I want to reiterate my point. By reviewing the article you will see that a fabricator has many more options in cutting costs than a box store fabricator does, and that it is not impossible to compete with the box stores if you need to. We just all need to think outside the box and take advantage of the opportunities that are available.

Jon Olson Circle RS#03 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


For all of you who are familiar with geese and the business management lessons they teach, I offer a reminder. And for those of you who are unfamiliar with the “geese teachings,” I relish the opportunity to introduce them.

“Lessons from the Geese” was written in 1972 by Dr. Robert McNeish of Baltimore. Dr. McNeish was a science teacher before he became involved in school administration in the Baltimore public schools. Interestingly, he also taught in his local church as a lay minister. He was apparently intrigued by a flyer he picked up near where he went to observe the geese on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. From his observations and using the facts contained in the flyer, he wrote “Lessons from the Geese” for a lay sermon he delivered in Northminster Presbyterian Church in Reisterstown, Md., in 1972. In 1987, a nurse called him and got his permission to print “Lessons” on small cards to hand out at the National Nurses Convention. And in 1990, U.S. Representative Dutch Ruppersberg called Dr. McNeish to obtain permission to read it at his inauguration! Enough of the history … here are five great lessons:

Unison

Fact: As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the birds that follow. By flying in a V-formation, the whole flock adds greater flying range than if each bird flew alone. Lesson: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of others.

Return

Fact: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it. Lesson: If we have as much sense as a goose, we stay in formation with those headed where we

want to go. We should be willing to accept their help and give out help to others.

Share

Fact: When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position. Lesson: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent on each other’s skills, capabilities and unique arrangements of gifts, talents and resources.

Encourage

Fact: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. Lesson: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one’s heart or core values and encourage the heart and core of others) is the quality of honking we seek.

Help

Fact: When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock. Lesson: If we had as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.

Every ISFA member needs to be in unison as a fabricator, return to the group when we deviate, share the common purpose we have, encourage each other when we can and help to the best of our ability.

We have successfully navigated another year and worked to move the organization to financial stability and to be refocused on the needs of the members. We have focused on three tasks: to PROMOTE, CONNECT and CERTIFY fabricators. The work has just begun and there is

From the PresidentFrom the desk of Russ Berry, ISFA 2011-2012 President

Lessons from the Geese more to do. The website is constantly improving

and the magazine still contains the best surface fabricator media in print. ISFA is gathering around the country giving fabricators a chance to draw together and network. Education is evolving to become a great resource for business leaders as well as fabrication. So truly we are ISFA NOW.

I share with you a thought from the current corporate and cultural prophet of our day:

“… you can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. …” — Steve Jobs

This year I have had many conversations with fabricators all over the world; from China, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and of course the United States. I found myself looking back and have heard so many comments about the past that I am compelled to tell you all that business tomorrow could care less about where we were 10 years ago or even yesterday. The “good old days” don’t increase your revenue, or more importantly, your profit. Trust that you can be valuable in the marketplace and go talk to your customers. Find out what they value and be the provider of the services they desire!

My hope for every fabricator is that we can find a way to develop our industry so that the next generation has the opportunity to continue to furnish and install premium decorative surfaces.

Enjoy the content of the magazine, reach out to other fabricators and realize that every single one of us doing a little bit everyday to grow the industry means that we have thousands of people working together to generate interest in what we do. Together we have a global voice that can tell the world about the great services and products we provide.

Russ Berry, ISFA President [email protected]


CCI Advanced 3-D Molds, Water, Light & FireAug. 1 – 3 Raleigh, N.C. (888) 386-7711

Buddy Rhodes Concrete Training Aug. 15 – 16 Knoxville, Tenn. (877) 493-0205

ISFA/IWF Countertops SymposiumAug. 21 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333 www.IWFatlanta.com

ISFA Regional GatheringAug. 22 Atlanta, Ga. (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

Int’l Woodworking Fair (IWF)Aug. 22 – 25 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333

Polishing Pro Systems TrainingAug. 29 – 30 Knoxville, Tenn. (877) 493-0205

ISFA Level I Solid Surface TrainingSept. 10 – 13 Orem, Utah (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

ISFA Level II Solid Surface TrainingSept. 17 – 20 Orem, Utah (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

Marmomacc 2012Sept. 26 – 29 Verona, Italy (202) 783-7000

Xiamen Kitchen & Bathroom FairOct. 11 – 14 Xiamen, China +86 592-595-9333

CCI Precast & GFRC Countertop TrainingOct. 15 – 19 Chicago, Ill. (888) 386-7711

Buddy Rhodes GFRC Advanced TrainingOct. 17 – 19 Knoxville, Tenn. (800) 575-4401

NeoCon EastOct. 17 – 18 Baltimore, Md. (800) 677-6278

Natural Stone 2012 Oct. 18 – 21 Istanbul, Turkey +90 212-465-7474

Cheng Concrete Countertops Essentials WorkshopOct. 19 Berkeley, Calif. (510) 849-3272

ISFA Level I Quartz/Stone TrainingOct. 22 – 25 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

ISFA Level II Quartz/Stone Repair TrainingOct. 26 – 27 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

Cheng Advanced Concrete Countertop Design TrainingOct. 22 – 26 Berkeley, Calif. (510) 849-3272

ISFA Level I Solid Surface TrainingNov. 12 – 15 Orem, Utah (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org

Buddy Rhodes Concrete TrainingNov. 14 – 15 Knoxville, Tenn. (877) 493-0205

StonExpo/Marmomacc/Surfaces 2013Jan. 29 – 31, 2013 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 547-3477

CCI Precast & GFRC Countertop TrainingFeb. 25 – April 1, 2013 Sydney, Australia (888) 386-7711

Vitoria Stone FairFeb. 26 – March 1, 2013 Vitoria, Brazil +55 273-434-0600

Xiamen Stone Fair 2013March 6 – 13 Xiamen, China +86 592-595-9616

KBIS 2013April 19 – 22 New Orleans, La. (800) 933-8735

Coverings 2013April 29 – May 2, 2013 Atlanta, Ga. (703) 683-8500

Stone + Tec 2013May 29 – June 1 Nuremberg, Germany +499 118-606-8108

AIA 2012 National ConventionJune 20 – 22, 2013 Denver, Colo. (202) 626-7300

AWFSJuly 24 – 27 Las Vegas, Nev.

Submit your event for consideration in our Calendar by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at [email protected].

Calendar of Events


Woodworking Associations Reach Agreement to Own IWFThe Woodworking Machinery Industry Association (WMIA), the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA) and the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) jointly entered into an agreement for the purchase of AHFA’s ownership interest in the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) by WMIA and WMMA. The transaction is expected to close late this year following IWF 2012. In addition, WMIA and WMMA entered into a new partnership for the management and ownership of IWF.

Silestone Partners with Nationally Syndicated Cooking Show

Everyday millions of homes across the nation will be treated to Mr. Food’s recipes prepared on a countertop from Silestone’s new Galactic Series. For more than 30 years, Mr. Food has helped viewers prepare everyday meals using foods that are convenient, healthy and delicious. The show is a trusted source for important nutrition and health news, kitchen trends and gadgets, and also features entertaining celebrity guests. It now also features Silestone by Cosentino.

ĒOS Expands Reach ĒOS has added two GĒOS distributors and its first Cupron Enhanced ĒOS Solid Surface distributor. EleMar New England, a wholly owned subsidiary of EleMar USA, has added GĒOS Sustainable Surfaces to its distribution line. Its territories include Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. The new GĒOS distributor, Italian Stone Gallery (ISG) has territories that include West Virginia, western Maryland (Baltimore) and western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh). Lastly, Fessenden Hall Inc. now covers Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania

for both the GĒOS distributor and now Cupron Enhanced ĒOS Solid Surface products.

Karran Sinks Earn GREENGUARD CertificationAll Karran sinks are now certified by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute for indoor air quality. GEI’s mission is to certify products and materials for low chemical emissions and provide a resource for choosing healthier products and materials for indoor environments.

Samsung Expands Distribution Samsung, provider of Staron solid surface and Radianz quartz surfacing, expanded its market reach in the United States and Canada after teaming up with several new distributors around North America. Now covering the greater Chicago area as well as Columbus, Ohio, is Atlas Stone Distribution. Further expanding its reach in the Midwest is the addition of Mont Granite as an authorized distributor of Radianz Quartz. The distribution area to be serviced by Mont Granite includes eastern Michigan and Ohio (excluding the Columbus metro area). In the Northeast, HG Stones has been added to the Radianz distributor network, and will cover the New York metropolitan area, Long Island and Southwestern Connecticut. And in Canada, Prestale Inc. will also be distributing the quartz surfacing product in Quebec. With the new partnerships, Radianz Quartz has distribution in more than 34 states plus Canada.

Gemstone Posts List of Recommended BitsGemstone has posted a list of recommended router bits on its website for use with Gemstone sinks, at www.gemstoness.com. The list includes bits from Velepec, Amana and Whiteside.

Recently, Velepec has added a 6-degree flush bit to its lineup that works well with Gemstone’s 1514-V bowl designed for healthcare and its 1812-VO universal design rectangle solid surface bowl for those who are getting the flush cut spec.

Vetrazzo App AvailableVetrazzo, provider of cementitious slab products with recycled glass content, has created a downloadable app for those interested in the product. The app features full-color pictures of every mix, LEED information, a product specification sheet with sharing features, and commercial and residential projects portfolio. It is available on iTunes for free.

ACS Expands Dealer NetworkAdvanced Cabinet Systems (ACS) of Marion, Ind., a manufacturer of Division 12 plastic laminate casework and retail store fixtures, has expanded its dealer network. Most recently, ACS has signed Glover Equipment of Cockeysville, Md., to represent the states/regions of Maryland, Delaware, Washington, D.C. and northern Virginia, as well as Innovative Cabinetry of Naples to represent southern Florida. Presently Harry J. Kloeppel and Associates represents

In the IndustryHieb to Head MIA, Receives AwardJim Hieb, vice president of the Marble Institute of America (MIA) will become the executive vice president of the MIA on February 1, 2013, according to an announcement on July 13 on the association’s Facebook page. Hieb began his work with the association in 2003 working on education and membership programs as special projects director. He was promoted to vice president in 2009. Additionally, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) will honor Hieb with the 38th Professional Performance Award. The award recognizes invaluable contributions made by association executives

who are at the top level within their organizations, but are not CEOs. Some of his many accomplishments and contributions to the association community include working with a volunteer committee to develop the industry’s first credentialing program, expanding safety resources and developing its continuing education program.


the states of Indiana and Illinois. ACS is actively seeking out dealers in other regions as they continue to expand.

Innovative Surfaces Helps with PBS Hometime Remodel

Innovative Surfaces in Hastings, Minn., fabricated and installed the countertops for episodes of Hometime, using Artisan Stone Collection Granite in Crema Bordeaux. Artisan Group Executive Director Chad Seiders also made a guest appearance talking about Artisan Stone Collection granite offerings. “Crema Bordeaux granite can have some pretty bold movement in it,” said Dean Johnson, president and co-host, Hometime. “The folks at Innovative Surfaces did a great job laying out the pieces on the slabs so that the colors and patterns worked across the seams and at the joint between the countertops and backsplashes. The stone countertops ended up being the visual focal point of this project, uniting the color scheme of the cabinets, flooring and walls.”

All episodes featuring this project can be seen at http://www.hometime.com/Hometime_4.0/video/VideoCollectorPage/1705.php.

NKBA Names President’s Award Winner The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has given the NKBA President’s Award to Ferguson. The NKBA President’s Award was created in 2009 to recognize companies that are committed to growing the industry and supporting the association. This year’s winner, according to immediate past president David Alderman, has shown an ongoing commitment to kitchen and bath professionals on both local and national levels.

MóZ Releases CatalogMóz Designs released an Architectural Products catalog that spotlights the company’s “ETA/Easy to Assemble” line of decorative metal systems. Pre-engineered for fast specification and installation, the product series includes standard column covers, wall surfaces/flat and dimensional, room dividers and artwork. Rich with dramatic, on-site photography and showcasing recent installations, the new 36-page catalog offers an easy step-by-step guide to specifying and ordering ETA surfaces and fixtures. The catalog also includes technical information on each product line; sample configurations; overviews of the company’s hand-etched surface patterns; and swatches of color treatments.

Klöpfer Surfaces Hosts Thermoforming Event

Klöpfer Surfaces in collaboration with Global Vacuum Presses showed its customers and members of the Network NetzwerkHolz the latest thermoforming possibilities of the LG HI-MACS solid surface at a thermoforming event in Berlin and Hamburg, Germany, They provided information about practical applications in several exclusive day seminars. The training took place at the premises of Klöpferholz in Berlin and at the forum NetzwerkHolz in Hamburg. The program began with an overview of LG HI-MACS news, presented by Stephan Neubauer from Klöpfer Surfaces. Afterward Anton Nabuurs from Global Vacuum Presses spoke about processing and thermoforming technologies, followed by the presentation of the showroom “Leonardo Cube” by Bjorn Asmussen from the design office 3deluxe in Wiesbaden, Germany. Events also focused on mould production, thermoforming and dye sublimation of solid surface.

Cardinal Concepts Installs First Textured Granite Countertops

Cardinal Concepts, a division of Cardinal Kitchens, performed its first installation of textured granite kitchen countertops in the Louisville area. The job was designed by local interior designer Patsy Grudzielanek, owner of Patina Interiors. According to Grudzielanek, textured granite fits right in with today’s tactile design trend of textural home furnishings such as textured fabrics for upholstery, pillows and drapes, to textured floor coverings found in area rugs, carpet and hard surfaces. Cardinal Kitchen’s high-tech, bridge-based polishing machine accommodates full slabs of granite to produce a uniform textured finish. Standard finishes offered are Honed, Brushed-Dry, Brushed-Wet and Riverwashed.

Rockler Plants 20,000 TreesRockler Woodworking and Hardware met its Earth Day goal of raising enough money to plant 20,000 new hardwood trees. Rockler joined efforts with the Hardwood Forestry Fund as part of an Earth Day celebration and reforestation effort. Rockler pledged to donate the price of one tree for every purchase made in April, up to a goal of 20,000 trees. Thanks to elevated customer participation, the goal was reached earlier than expected. The 2012 Earth Day event was twice as ambitious as last year’s, doubling the goal from 10,000 to 20,000 trees planted.

sia Abrasives Expands StaffCharlotte, N.C.-based sia Abrasives, Inc. USA had expanded its sales and marketing force, with several key appointments. Ellen Moser was named as the A-D Key Account Manager. Moser brings 19 years of relevant experience with sia Abrasives’ corporate headquarters office in Frauenfeld, Switzerland. She is a Swiss citizen with extensive abrasive sales and customer


service experience all over the world, and is fluent in English, German, Spanish and French. Joseph Masters has been named marketing manager. Additionally, Tommy Scott, Walker Eastham and Joshua Harris will join the company as territory sales managers. Masters is responsible for public relations, promotions, sales tools, advertising and electronic media for this business segment. Additionally, he will coordinate all market research. As the Southern territory sales manager, Scott will manage sales in Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. Eastham will focus sales efforts in the Northeast, including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. And Harris will oversee sales for the Texas region.

Kirei Adds Distributor HJ Oldenkamp now covers Ohio and Michigan, providing Kirei environmentally friendly surfacing materials. HJ Oldenkamp has provided premier building products since 1949.

Global Vacuum Presses Finishes New Workshop

After a long time with a lot of effort and some little difficulties, everything is complete at the New Global Vacuum Presses Workshop in Moncada, Spain. Global has officially moved to the new workshop near Valencia. With an area of 4400 cu. m, Global has everything under one roof, from offices to the production, stock and showroom, as well as training area.

DuPont Makes Zodiaq Pricing, Corian Manufacturing Changes DuPont announced that it has changed the pricing groups for Zodiaq quartz surfacing sold in the United States and Canada. The price of 15 selections in the line will reportedly be going down.

A 13 percent reduction on almost one-third of the product line is the result of the changes. Surfaces in its color group “D” surfaces that are being consolidated into “C” pricing are: Calm Springs,

Wintergreen, Coriander, Warm Taupe, Flax, Savory, Licorice, Moroccan Morning, Nutmeg, and Mossy Green. Other colors introduced last year to be consolidated to “B” pricing are: Sage, Caraway, Poppy Seed, Chicory and Coarse Pepper.

Additionally, DuPont is now reportedly manufacturing its Private Collection Corian solid surface at the company’s Yerkes plant in Tonawanda, N.Y.

DuPont invested an estimated $6 million to make the transition, according to reports. New York state grant money totaling nearly $500,000 was also used to aid the facility in the transition.

C.H. Briggs Announces Agreement with KohlerC.H. Briggs Company, an independently owned distributor of interior and specialty building products, signed an agreement with Kohler Co. to distribute enameled cast iron and stainless steel kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks to its kitchen and bath dealers and countertop fabricators.

NueMedia Expands StaffNueMedia, LLC hired Maureen Alley for the newly created position of content manager for the company’s Wood Group. Alley has seven years’ experience reporting on the housing industry as community editor for ForResidentialPros.com, managing the social media accounts and online editorial. Initially, Kim Kaiser, chief content officer, will oversee Alley as she acclimates herself. Simultaneously, Kaiser will assume her new role in research and new site development.

Cilio Technologies Wins AwardCilio Technologies, LLC, a specialist in automated order distribution and management of installed sales for the building materials industry, was awarded the IQ (Innovation Quotient) Award by BizTimes Milwaukee for its Cilio Partners Portal. The awards celebrate innovations in business and recognize companies with “the most innovative, clever and unique products, services or processes.” The portal is a Web-based platform for managing installed sales orders for retail home improvement stores and manufacturers.

MultiCam Makes Staff AppointmentsMultiCam Inc., a CNC cutting system manufacturer, appointed Derriest Alexander five-axis router product manager. An experienced

CAD designer, he’s overseeing this new product line through sales and application support, training and product development. Also, Chris Haltom joined the company as North American sales manager. He brings a strong machine and software background to his new position. Lastly, Lance George was appointed South Central sales manager in Memphis, Tenn. He has 20 years of experience selling routing/cutting equipment and software.

Grenite Achieves GREENGUARD CertificationSaint-Gobain achieved GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality and GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification for its Grenite Series of engineered stone surfaces. In order to become GREENGUARD Certified, the entire Grenite line met stringent certification requirements for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). With a high abrasion resistance, Grenite is suitable for high-traffic horizontal and vertical applications in the retail, hospitality, banking, education, healthcare, entertainment and restaurant industries. Manufactured entirely in the United States, Grenite is also flame-retardant, NSF 51 certified and non-porous. It features up to 85 percent post-consumer recycled content and is eligible for LEED points through the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

Copperworks Expands with New LocationCopperworks struck a deal to move its operations to a new location in September. The new space at 975 Transport Way in Petaluma, Calif., provides the custom manufacturer of range hoods and countertops an additional 70 percent production and showroom space. The new facility has more than 1,000 sq. ft. of office space. Leaving the retail district means the company will discontinue its retail sales of items such as copper weather vanes, cookware and décor.

CoveringsETC Launches Portuguese Language Website CoveringsETC, makers of eco-friendly surfacing materials, such as Bio-Glass, launched a Portuguese language website. The site, which contains many of the same features as its English and Spanish counterparts, was developed to serve the company’s growing domestic and international Brazilian customer base.

In the Industry

ISFA is once again teaming up with IWF for a full day symposium on countertops

Exploring Countertop Options:

August 21, 2012 | 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. | Georgia World Congress Center | Atlanta, GeorgiaTurning Opportunities into Profit

Presented by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), this one-day program is designed to provide a wealth of information to both established countertop fabricators and cabinetmakers and casework providers who are exploring best practices for resourcing within the countertop market.

Put on by ISFA, the presenters include the owners of successful countertop and architectural millwork companies who are well versed in the technology, techniques and business requirements of countertop operations.

The session will cover residential and commercial operations, and encompasses information on a variety of countertop materials. It includes discussions on materials, machinery, outsourcing vs. in-house fabrication and countertop trends.

Speakers:

• Russ Berry, President: A.S.S.T. & ISFA

• Mike Nolan, Director of Education: ISFA

• Dave Paxton, Vice President: Paxton Countertops

• Kevin Cole, Communications Director: ISFA

Sponsored by:

and

For more information or to register call (866) 229-2386 or go to www.IWFatlanta.com and click on the “Education” tab. ISFA Members: Use discount code ISFAC when registeringCircle RS#04 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


One such metal is zinc, which played a critical role in a new upscale restaurant in Napa Valley’s downtown St. Helena developed by world renown architect Howard Backen. With a dining room full of zinc surfaces, French Blue creates a striking environment to go along with its inspired menu from food and wine guru Leslie Rudd.

The Project

Backen, one of the principals at the prominent architecture firm of Backen, Gillam and Kroeger, is known as the go-to architect for Napa Valley estates and wineries, and he embraced the look of zinc for this restaurant project of which he is part owner along with Rudd.

French Blue, which opened in June, features a main dining room lined with nine zinc counters, a two-piece curving main bar and a selection of zinc tables (see Figure 1). In addition to the

zinc countertops made by Mio Metals, Backen chose to continue the soft gray look of zinc with metallic paint on the cabinet trim.

Zinc is a reactive metal—similar to copper, but with a silver tone, and specialty fabricator Mio Metals was personally selected by Backen for the critical fabrication role.

“Backen, Gillam and Kroeger were great to work with, and we were able to come up with some very unique edge details for this project,” explained Joe Cain, president of Mio Metals. “Surprisingly, there are three different edge details used throughout the restaurant (see Figure 2).

“We are really advancing the art of zinc countertops with every job we do,” Cain continued. “We have a number of standard edge details, but when we work closely with

ZInc SurfacInG Plays Critical Role in Restaurant Design

For many years stainless

steel has been a trend for

surfacing in kitchens, and

particularly in commercial

kitchens. However, other

metals are now making

waves and are turning up

in high-end residential and

food service settings.

Mio Metals Expounds on the Choice of Zinc as a Countertop Material

This custom zinc island countertop features a radiant heating pad to keep the surface warm to the touch.


a hospitality designer or business owner, we can come up with unique features to set their project apart.”

Mio Metals first provided a quote for the project in August 2011, after being contacted by the architect who had seen the company’s work in other restaurants.

“In my meetings with the architect, it was clear he was well-versed in zinc,” said Cain. “His treatment to the cabinetry was also zinc focused, but due to the detail of the moulding, I recommended he move to a zinc-like paint instead of cladding in zinc sheet or foil. Our work wasn’t completed until May of 2012, but much of that time was spent deciding on edge

profiles and other treatments. Our actual production time for the tops was about four weeks.

“We completed the project on time, on budget and Mr. Backen was very pleased with the result,” he explained. “There were no real hurdles and we completed the job as estimated. This can be a risk with so many pieces to do and a specific opening date, but the contractor was well organized.”

The Fabricator Behind the Project

Mio Metals was formed in 2004 when Cain bought Copperworks in Petaluma, Calif. Established in 1981, the craftsmen at Copperworks have specialized in creating custom range hoods, countertops and other unique

Figure 1 — Creating a classic “country French” look, the main dining room of high-end Napa Valley restaurant French Blue is lined with nine zinc counters, a two-piece curving main bar and a selection of zinc tables. A functional water station features a stainless steel sink and a 12-ft. seamless countertop.

Figure 2 — Because of the custom nature of zinc countertops, a variety of unique edge options can be created, such as the threedifferent ones featured in the French Bluerestaurant project. A design technique from architect Howard Backen is blending different edge details on adjacent server stations.


products in copper, brass, stainless steel and zinc. “When I bought the business, it primarily focused on custom fabrication of range hoods, chimney caps and flashing for the region,” said Cain. “I created the Mio Metals name to allow us to better market the full range of metals in which we had expertise.”

At the time, the founder of the business, John Strong, was retiring and had really relied on just a couple of workers and the company’s reputation rather than strong marketing to bring in business. Zinc countertop demand was very sporadic, and Cain saw it as an opportunity for more business. So, he positioned himself as chief marketer, rather than a fabricator, and established standard designs. He took advantage of the Internet by offering e-commerce and nationwide shipping and pushed his message out through several websites that each focused on a different product line.

“In 2008, as the recession was hitting the home improvement market, our range hood business was slowing down, but our Web traffic on zinc countertops was taking off,” explained Cain. “We began making more zinc countertops than ever, and they generated more revenue than our core business of range hoods. Our primary product line is now countertops with zinc being the dominant material. It’s still a niche product with a sticker price that competes with exotic stone, but we’re going through 600 to 1,000 lbs. of zinc per month.”

Today, the company’s staff of six is moving into a 70 percent larger building. Only a handful of other companies compete in the zinc countertop market as whole-heartedly as Mio Metals, but there are individuals and small sheet metal shops that attempt countertops or tabletops with the same exotic metals. Of course the number that fabricates stainless steel countertops is larger. However, that’s an area in which Cain doesn’t seek to compete.

“We do work with 24-gauge stainless steel in our range hood production, but our shop is geared toward softer nonferrous metals, so we don’t work with thicker stainless steel that is required for countertops,” he explained. “Stainless countertops should be made from 18- or 16-gauge stainless that is dramatically harder than copper or zinc, and we just aren’t set up for it.”

Another thing the company isn’t set up for is installation of its countertops. Mio Metals currently only sells its tops directly through its product-specific website, ZincCountertops.net, although it is pursuing authorizing showrooms in select locations.

“We rely on professional installers across the country for measurements and installation,” said Cain. “We certify installers in metropolitan and luxury areas we think will be receptive to our product. Keep in mind we produce a high-end, rare product so it would be impossible to staff an in-house crew across the country.”

As such, the company has trained installers in locations around the country, including Chicago, Raleigh-Durham, N.C., Baltimore, and New York.

But while installation isn’t on the menu for the company, one thing at the forefront is a mind-set of environmental responsibility, and it makes its way into just about every aspect, from the materials to the methods.

Green Metal?

At its base, the metals industry is not a low-impact one. Between mining, refining and transport of raw materials, there’s a considerable amount of energy being consumed. But from the point the material reaches the shop, Mio Metals is very conscious of how it can lessen the impact of the final products.

“As a life-long environmentalist, my goal is to manage my part of the process as efficiently as possible and minimize our carbon footprint,” said Cain. “I buy from local suppliers. I recycle everything in our shop from wood and metal scrap to office paper. I work with freight transporters that use a mix of rail and truck. And, I encourage all of my customers to recycle the metal once it has had a long and productive life.”

Substrate—Mio Metals uses FSC-certified wood as a substrate to help support sustainable forestry, and Cain touted, “If I could find an equivalent material with a lower impact on the environment, I would use it.”

Energy consumption—energy usage is one area where Mio Metals makes large strides. “In our shop, we work with softer metals such as copper, brass and zinc on machines that are operated by arms and legs not large amounts of electricity,” explained Cain. “We use a stomp shear—named for the source of power—to cut our sheets and a hand brake to form the bends. Our decorative edges are created with hand-operated machinery and skill ,not some large press with large power consumption.”

To reduce energy consumption, the company also opts for soldering vs. welding, which is a high-heat, high-energy process. “Soldering is a low-heat, lower-energy method of joining metal,” explained Cain. “In fact, the melting point of the solder is only 400 F.”

Even the soldering irons used by the company aren’t connected to the electrical grid, but rather heated by natural gas, and the company doesn’t use any lead-based solder.

It’s obvious that Cain takes the business of zinc very seriously, but that begs the question: Why zinc?

“Zinc as a countertop material is a design choice first and foremost,” Cain put forth. “It’s cool to the touch and produces a patina that is unique to the situation, which designers love. Through the oxidation process, zinc can change to black, white or charcoal and like most architectural metals, any area that is rubbed or touched on a regular basis, such as the edge of the countertop, will shine with reflectivity. Areas near sinks will show more even oxidation as water stands and evaporates, whereas the zinc adjacent to a cooktop or stove will feature spots from splatters and utensils. Each top is truly unique (see Figure 3).

“Another attraction to our countertops is the edge detail,” he continued. “We combine traditional sheet metal techniques with custom hand working to develop edge profiles that recall those found in many French cafes and restaurants. One of my favorite edge details was created for a French café in Florida called Paris in Town. The owner and I talked for a bit, and I offered to create a few designs just for him. He chose the first one I made, and that design was actually reworked for our recent project at French Blue.”

Figure 3 — Zinc reacts with everything from water to fingerprints to lemon juice, creating a unique patina in every application that is generally part of the appeal. (This countertop is in El Paseo, a restaurant bar in Mill Valley, Calif., part owned by Sammy Hagar.)


Zinc as a Countertop Material

Zinc is part of a design trend that includes the use of natural surface materials with rustic or unique looks. It is a mineral essential for human health, but like many things, ingesting too much is not good. As such, it is not used for cookware, but it is safe for everyday countertop use. With a natural silver color, zinc is a soft metal that will react to its environment. In a counter or tabletop situation, the reactions

will be more diverse and frequent than other applications, such as a range hood.

A full understanding of what it will be like to live with zinc countertops is key to customer satisfaction. “If you’re expecting an even color, always polished surface, please consider a different material,” said Cain. “Zinc reacts with everything from water to fingerprints to lemon juice, and hopefully this is part of the appeal. It also may develop dents and scratches.

With the softness and the color patterns, zinc countertops can look like they’ve been around for decades after only a few weeks.”

Finishes—There are three main types of finishes offered by Mio Metals: polished, matte or patina. In each case, the initial appearance is different but the metal is still likely to react the same way regardless.

With a shiny polished finish the patina forms a little slower as the surface is smoothed down and less likely to react easily. Matte finish is the most common for countertops, and it helps the zinc react with everything from fingerprints to tap water. With patinaed zinc, an acid is used to create a reaction with the top surface. This is ideal for applications that need a specific look from inception.

Seams—there will likely be seams in zinc countertops ,and it can almost certainly be expected in countertops longer than 120 in. Likewise, L-shaped countertops will have seams (see Figure 4). With Mio Metals, in some applications the countertop will ship in sections that will bolt together on location and the seam will just butt together. However, seams can be soldered and sanded down flush. If carefully planned for, long straight sections can be broken up evenly or seams can sometimes be hidden around cutouts.

Figure 4 — Like laminate or granite, there will likely be seams in zinc countertops and it can almost certainly be expected in countertops longer than 120 in. or those with intersecting shapes, as can be seen in this 6-in. edge profile in Paris in Town Cafe, in Florida.


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.

Toll Free: (877) 464-7732www.ISFAnow.org


Sink options—Zinc Countertops are suitable for both drop-in and undermount sinks and Mio Metals offers stainless steel sinks that work well in both situations. Additionally, the company fabricates integrated zinc sinks in some applications, but they can be a costly proposition (see Figure 5). “The reason for the additional cost is that zinc is very soft and will lose its shape,” explained Cain. “So to prevent droopy sinks, we create steel cradles to encase them, which means we basically build two sinks: one in steel and one in zinc. From a performance standpoint, stainless steel is a much better alternative and is my preference.”

Other characteristics—Zinc is a good conductor and will transfer heat quickly, so there is no worry with setting hot pans on it. However, using a cutting board is recommended because of the softness of the material. Through regular use dents and scratches will form in the surface and then wear back down over time, adding character (see Figure 6).

Zinc is also nonporous, so all of the spots that form on it are only on the top surface layer. As such, they are usually able to be removed through polishing or buffing.

The Basic Process

First the subtops are built out of ¾-in. plywood, with edges and cutouts built up as necessary—very much like a laminate countertop. Zinc sheet that is either 1 mm or 1.5 mm thick is then adhered to the subtop with waterproof construction adhesive. Then a vacuum press

is used to create an even surface without any oilcanning.

Mio Metals’ edge profiles can be anything from ¾ to 10 in. A variety of profiles can be done, from standard radius edges to square, rounded, indented or even raised profiles. Any number of custom edges can also be created.

Like laminate tops, sections are joined with bolts (dog bones) and wood biscuits. The metal does not bend down into the seam area so butt joints are similar to those of granite or laminate. Caulking that joint during installation is recommended to keep it watertight.

When end caps or other pieces need to be joined to the main top, they are soldered (see Figure 7). Then, once the zinc is properly adhered, it goes on to the finishing process. From the time of final measurements, a typical countertop is produced in about a week. However, the typical schedule requires about four weeks’ turnaround time from start to finish. And, of course, more complex jobs require more time.

Pricing for Zinc Tops

The price per square foot varies greatly. Primarily, it comes down to labor, shipping and how many details are spread across how many square feet of countertop. Therefore, it is difficult to give a standard price, but projects with standard edges, finish and utilizing drop-in sinks might be in the $80- to $160-per-sq.-ft. range, with more complex work easily going higher.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The care and maintenance for a zinc countertop is pretty easy and just requires the right expectations. If the end user understands that the material reacts to its environment, creates a patina that is ever-changing and will develop the occasional scratch or dent, then it is as easy to clean as any other surface.

For everyday cleaning, mild dish soap and a sponge or soft towel will clean the surface. Any cleaner that contains citric acid, ammonia or other harsh chemicals should be avoided to reduce any unwanted aging or spotting.

And while occasional use of the abrasive side of a sponge can be good to help remove any built-up oxidation that forms naturally on the metal, Cain doesn’t recommend polishing on a regular basis. “If the patina becomes unsightly in an area, it is possible to use a metal polish, such as Brasso, to restore the color to the original gray, or another technique is to sand it with a scotch pad to remove the top layer,” he explained. “Both of these options tend to require working on the entire surface to get an even appearance, and we do not encourage it because it is a lot of work, and after you do all of the work, the metal will continue to react to its environment and the patina process begins again.”

There are a few situations, however, where it is recommended. “We did an exterior bar for the Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado and they will only use it during the winter months,” said Cain. “During the summer, the zinc will weather and patina based on whatever leaves or sticks or water may fall on it. So, to get it ready for the start of the ski season, I recommend that they scour it to remove any oxidation that has formed.”

While even Cain admits zinc countertops are not for everyone or every situation, they certainly offer another unique option. In the right place, under the right circumstances and, perhaps most importantly, with the right expectations, they are an option that can really make a project one to be remembered.

For more information contact Joe Cain, president of Mio Metals, Inc., 400 Western Ave., Petaluma, CA 94952; phone (888) 530-7630; email [email protected]; website www.zinccountertops.net or www.miometals.com.

Figure 5 — Custom fabricated integral sinks are available with zinc countertops, but they can be a costly proposition because steel cradles also have to be built to encase them.

Figure 6 — Because zinc is a relatively soft metal, through regular use dents and scratches will form in the surface and then wear back down over time, adding character to each installation.

Figure 7 — When end caps or other pieces need to be joined to the main top, Mio Metals uses a soldering method vs. welding to help limit the energy used in the fabrication process.


Mio Metals’ Copperworks division has been crafting copper countertops since 1981, creating custom countertops and bar tops for homes, bars, restaurants, cafes and even picnic tables for exquisite terraces. But what’s the story behind copper as a countertop material?

Copper countertops perform pretty much the same as zinc countertops when it comes to the finish and patina. The primary difference is that the copper is an orange-red base color that will turn to brown in an interior situation. Green oxidation commonly only happens in exterior applications and, unless you are on a coast, can take decades to really develop.

When it comes to copper, you can watch it evolve from the moment it is installed. Copper countertops take on a beauty that is truly unique to every installation. With the metal’s natural patina process, it will show character based on how it is used.

Also of interest is the fact that the EPA has certified copper as antimicrobial — the first surface material to be certified as such. And while it should be noted that Mio Metals is not certified by the EPA, designers and consumers may want to give some consideration to this positive aspect of copper as a countertop surface.

Texture and Dents

Because copper is a relatively soft metal, it is subject to denting. However, in most everyday use, it will stand up to typical kitchen wear. Over time, though, dents will form from various situations that arise.

One option to add character and combat denting is to have the surface textured with a hammering effect. Starting off with a light texture is a great option to differentiate a copper countertop and

hide any dents that may form over time. Because texturing is noticeably bumpy, light or medium texture is recommended for countertops.

Pricing

When it comes to the price of a copper top, prices vary greatly. Numerous factors affect the price, from the fabricator chosen to the edge detail to the overall complexity of the project. A general price range is somewhere between $80 to $200 per sq. ft.

Care and Maintenance

For those who want a shiny copper kitchen, be forewarned, a lot of work performing regular polishing with odorous polishes is in your future. However, if you are content with the beauty of the aging process and watching the material react with its environment, caring for copper surfaces is not overly difficult.

Cleaning a copper countertop is simply done with mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge. Mild abrasives can be used, but are not recommended. A mild abrasive pad, such as those found on the back of a sponge, can help remove dried-on substances, but too much pressure may leave marks. However, the shiny marks will soon darken, and any grooves put in the metal will eventually be rubbed down.

If something extreme happens — such as a wine spill goes unchecked for a long period of time — an unsightly blob may form in an area that gets a lot of visibility. In these cases, metal polish, such as Brasso, may be used on the affected area to return it to a bright, shiny copper. However, Mio Metals warns that the challenge is determining when to stop polishing. “We still don’t recommend polishing the whole countertop

because it is a smelly, time-consuming job,” states the company’s website. “Just create a polished area in place of the unsightly blob and let that area begin its aging process again.”

For more information, visit www.copperworks.com.

Copper Tops: Copper as a Countertop Material

This private residence island countertop features seams that fall in-line with the cooktop cutout and handmade corner caps with copper dome head rivets.

This sushi restaurant chose a long copper bar with hand-wrapped rail to provide an ever-changing surface. Within a week, the patina made the copper look like it had been there for decades.

This wine tasting room features copper countertops all around, attracting guests to sit and sample the latest releases.


ways, too. Manufacturing byproducts, unusable raw materials, product scrap, construction debris and even cafeteria waste were all within scope at the project’s 15 global manufacturing and partner sites.

Today, material that previously may have been destined for a landfill is being reused or recycled, including:

■ Sanding waste from the manufacture of Corian and Zodiaq is used as a filler replacement in concrete;

■ Ground-up scrap Corian sheet is used as recycled content in first grade products — such as the company’s Terra Collection of Corian solid surfaces that contain up to 20 percent recycled content (see Figure 1);

■ Crushed scrap Corian is sold for use as road sub-base material and as landscape stone (see Figure 2);

■ Shipping pallets are repaired, reused or ground into animal bedding;

■ Carrier belt film is sold to a third party who melts it down to make industrial adhesives (see Figure 3), and

■ Cafeteria waste is recycled into worm bedding or converted into energy.

How does a company go about finding suitable uses for its refuse? It isn’t easy. “Our Drive to Zero team worked very hard to find the partners we could work with collaboratively to repurpose the waste generated by our manufacturing facilities,” said DuPont’s resident Six Sigma

Taking Green up the ChainDuPont Achieves Zero Landfill Status in Building Innovations Business

DuPont’s Building Innovations division created mountains of scrap from the manufacture of Corian solid surface and Zodiaq quartz surfacing, along with other products and ancillary processes, amounting to 81 million tons of waste per year. This is equivalent to the weight of 16,200 average cars or 1,013 loaded tractor trailers. However, through its “Drive to Zero” program it eliminated and repurposed all landfill wastes from 15 separate locations over the course of three years.

Just about everyone in the surfacing industry has seen the numerous environmentally friendly products to hit the marketplace, ranging from materials housing recycled particulate to those utilizing sustainably harvested bio-based components. However, there is a lot more that goes into manufacturing surfacing material than the actual material itself. What about the scrap and the packaging and all that goes into shipping and distribution of the products?

At least one major surfacing material supplier, DuPont, has carried the initiative right up the chain, and has achieved zero landfill status in its Building Innovations business. It did this by reducing, reusing and recycling manufacturing byproducts and waste at manufacturing sites globally. After three years of focused effort, DuPont Building Innovations has become completely landfill free, reducing its environmental footprint from 81 million lbs. of landfill waste annually to zero. Now, through the “Drive to Zero” landfill program, none of the waste generated by the business from the manufacture of DuPont Corian solid surfaces, DuPont Zodiaq quartz surfaces, DuPont Tyvek weatherization systems products and geosynthetic textiles is sent to landfills.

“The Drive to Zero landfill program is good for our business, good for the environment and highly valued by our customers,” said Timothy P. McCann, president of DuPont Building Innovations. “Working with our supply chain partners to tackle the zero landfill goal was critical to the success of our business in reducing its environmental footprint. Collaborating with our business partners allowed us to succeed in reaching our ambitious project goal of zero landfill.”

DuPont Building Innovations had to not only use waste reduction strategies, but also recycle and repurpose waste to be able to accomplish a feat of this enormity and completely eliminate landfill usage. The Drive to Zero project was comprehensive in other


Blackbelt Global Project Leader Dave Walter. “In truth, finding the companies and people who could help us on this front was one of the most challenging things about the project, and we devoted a lot of time to finding the right uses and application for our waste streams.”

The Six Sigma business management methodology was used throughout the three years of the project, which was critical in helping the team map out all the waste streams involved. Using this approach allowed the team to understand where and why waste streams were generated and how much waste was being produced by each.

DuPont uses Six Sigma methodology across the corporation as a disciplined, data-driven business management strategy to help eliminate defects and reduce waste, explained Walter. “We used a number of Six Sigma tools throughout the three-year life of the project and continue to use these tools to help monitor our performance at each of our locations to ensure we stay at zero landfill. There was a tremendous amount of data here that needed to be looked at. Six Sigma essentially helped us make sense of it all.”

The landfill project was particularly unique in that it included third-party partner sites, where products are often made for other companies. This meant that the project team had to manage the challenge of eliminating all unrelated product manufacturing landfill waste. But, it did so, and some locations even beat the company’s three-year goal.

“The feedback from our customers has been tremendous,” said McCann. “In fact, DuPont Building Innovations recently won McDonald’s Restaurant Division’s first-ever Sustainability Award, which I think tells you just how much one of our largest customers values what we’ve done in reaching zero landfill. I’m proud of this initiative and what it says about our business at DuPont.”

DuPont Building Innovations, the leading supplier of solid surfacing material for McDonald’s restaurants, was the first company ever awarded McDonald’s Supplier Sustainability Award.

“In keeping with McDonald’s priorities, we developed our new Supplier Sustainability Award as a way to recognize suppliers that demonstrate leadership and provide us with products and services that contribute to the environmental sustainability of our restaurants,” said Jim Carras, senior vice president of U.S. Restaurant Development for McDonald’s. “We congratulate DuPont Building Innovations on being the first company to be recognized with this award for their environmental stewardship.”

In addition to the positive benefits associated with corporate responsibility, the program achievements were accomplished with no capital expenditures, and actually provided a financial benefit to the business.

While DuPont accomplished its zero landfill goal, the challenge for environmental responsibility doesn’t necessarily end there. The company has also given much thought to the waste generated by fabricators of Corian and/or Zodiaq.

“We continue to look at the possibilities here and would like to have an option to offer our DuPont fabricators,” said Walter. “It is not environmentally friendly to have to pick all of this waste up and haul it back to DuPont’s manufacturing sites for recycling due to the fuel consumed in the process. We have instead been looking at more regionalized options that could be utilized.”

“There are a number of regulatory approvals that are needed to be able to use ground solid surface scrap as drainage rock or in road sub base, so it is going to take some time. While

this is all being sorted through, we recommend that fabricators look at donation options like the Storehouse of World Vision, Habitat For Humanity or a local trade school who may have a usage for scrap material,” he added. “Some team members in our Wilmington, Del., office just donated several thousand dollars to the local Ronald McDonald house by selling decorative magnets that were created using discarded Corian color samples. It really is amazing what people can do when they collaborate and think creatively to help solve a problem.”

For more information visit www2.dupont.com/Building_and_Construction/en_US/sustainable_building.html, call (800) 426-7426 or email [email protected].

Figure 3 – Every stream of waste was taken into account, including carrier belt film being melted down for adhesive; sanding waste from Zodiaq and Corian being used as a filler in concrete; pallets being reused an repaired or turned into animal bedding; and even cafeteria waste being repurposed in worm bedding.

Figure 1 – In addition to reducing waste, recycling was another tool for the program, which uses line scrap made in the creation of solid surface by grinding it for particulate in the Corian Terra Collection of solid surface.

Figure 2 – Crushed Corian scrap is repurposed as road sub-base material and also turned into landscaping material.

FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR •


By Kirk HeinerEvery 60 seconds a company goes out of business. More than 80 percent of businesses have no written plan to succeed in sales. Is it any wonder why more than 96 percent of businesses fail within the first 10 years? And only 4 percent will survive. But who wants to just survive? Why not thrive?

If you don’t have a good sales plan, plan on failing.

Every business needs a Sales Success Plan. We’re not talking about a business plan you would use to go borrow money from a bank. This is a living, breathing document designed to steer your company’s sales success by well-thought-through strategy and tactics.

What It Is A good sales plan is your road map to your sales goals. It gives you vision and helps give clarity to the destination. It provides structure to your sales tactics. It helps assure that your actions have purpose and are part of an overall system for achievement, not just random acts.

What It’s Not! Your sales plan is NOT a business plan. It’s not something you just use to shop for money. It’s also not just a marketing plan for how you will spend your advertising dollars.

I worked for Tony Robbins, a world-renowned success coach and his business partner, Chet Holmes, one of America’s greatest sales gurus, and they taught me that business must be intentional. We would have sales meetings three times a week, every week. They are dead serious about success. They know what it takes to thrive, even in a lousy economy.

Strategy vs. Tactics Holmes once said, “The strategist will slaughter the tactician every time, and 98 percent of all CEOs are tacticians.” Tactics are just random acts in hopes of getting some sales, and in recent years we’ve all learned that hope is not a strategy.

You’ve got to have plans and a winning strategy if you want to do well and prosper in this new economy. This article will show you one of the best ways to create a winning sales plan, and

the best thing about it is that it’s simple. It’s not “easy,” but it is simple. And if you do it, while it may not guarantee success, it surely will increase your odds.

Why Do I Need One? You may be thinking, “Why do I need a sales plan anyway? Why can’t I just do what I feel or think is right each day?” Here’s why: Momentum! You can never get momentum doing random actions that don’t work together as a whole.

Another reason is that the process of thinking through the right strategy and actions forces you to think about issues you might miss. It helps you gain perspectives you might not have had. It also provides a tracking system for you and your staff to see how they’re doing, and to see whether or not you’re on track to get to your destination.

One last reason why having a sales success plan is crucial is because that is what has worked throughout history. The wisest and richest man to have ever lived wrote down a code for success — just three simple steps. After 20 years of studying this man, I wrote a book on his success principles.

They are:

1) “Any enterprise is built by wise plans.”

2) “It is established by understanding.”

3) “It profits wonderfully by measuring or keeping score.”

The man who wrote those three principles was the world’s only known trillionaire: King Solomon. Millions of people consider him to be the wisest man to have ever lived. Notice that the secret to his success principles begins with a wise plan.

When the wisest and wealthiest man in history says, “make wise plans,” do it.

Why Businesses Fail to Plan

So why is it that so many businesses fail to have any written plans for their sales success? Simple — it’s a lot of WORK! Napoleon Hill, one of the greatest writers on the subject of success, said that mental work is some of the hardest work you’ll ever do. Creating good plans is more important than just about anything you, or anyone in your company, can do.

If you are trying to succeed at sales with a million disjointed, random tactics, you will never enjoy the result of a cohesive, planned sales approach. Your actions won’t work to build upon each other and generate any steam. You’ll be frustrated when one tactic or another doesn’t work. And believe me, you’ll remember the failed ones more than the triumphs.

A well-thought-through sales plan allows you to step back and take a 10,000-ft. view of your situation. Ask questions like: Who are we in the marketplace; who are our clients; and how do we best attract them? It’s a concerted effort and has a harmony to it much like a symphony playing together vs. each of the different instruments playing a different song all at the same time. Youch!

Remember, 4 percent of businesses survive. About 2 percent actually prosper. To be in that 2 percent requires commitment. It means doing the work others won’t do, like planning.

Another big advantage of creating a great plan for your sales is that you’ll get to know your ideal customers better — what they think, what they want and what they’re REALLY buying. And it’s not your just product or service that they are

Writing the Killer Sales Plan: Your Ticket to Sales Success

buying. They may be buying prestige, status or even peace of mind.

When a man buys a Ferrari, he’s buying more than just a car. He’s buying image and how he feels about himself when he drives it. He expects to be treated differently because he’s in it.

Why Most Businesses Fail

Businesses fail because of two key factors:

1) They fail to create a REAL and well-thought-out written plan. You must create a wise and actionable plan that you and your team can follow to reach your goals.

2) They fail to measure results to see if those planned actions are working. Are we taking action daily? What works? What doesn’t? The old adage says, “What gets measured, gets results.” Measure the most important things.

Traditional business plans are only good for going to the bank for a loan. I’m talking about a strategic battle plan designed to take your sales to the next level. If you don’t have a wise plan, you have no real strategy. And remember, strategy beats tactics every time.

What’s In a Sales Plan?

A winning sales plan will include answers to the following questions:

■ Who are you? ■ What do you sell? ■ How are you different and better than the

competition? ■ Who is your ideal target client? ■ What are your ideal clients’ shopping

patterns? ■ What are their greatest concerns,

frustrations and unmet needs with it comes to buying your products or services?

■ Who is your competition? ■ What are their strengths? Weaknesses? ■ What are you clients REALLY buying? ■ Where are the most profitable untapped

niches in your market? ■ Where are the greatest opportunities to

take market share? ■ What new products or services should we

sell?

■ How is our pricing structure? Should we raise prices or lower them?

■ How will we attract, hire and retain strong sales talent?

■ What are our goals? 60 days, 90 days, six months, etc.

■ What needs to be measured? How often?

These are just some of the questions your sales plan should address. A Few Extras

Here are a few extras that should also go into the plan:

■ How will your sales staff create rapport with potential clients?

■ Where do most of them live? ■ What’s the best way to reach them?

(Radio, T.V., Internet, mailers, etc.) ■ What is the best message to engage

prospects and make them want to do business with us?

■ Who can we ally with that also serves the same type client?

■ What statements will clearly differentiate us in ways that our clients value?

The BIG 3

If you want to win in sales, you must become expert in three things. If you develop excellence in these three areas, you’ll do well.

The first is rapport. People buy from whom they like, trust and respect. Learn how to develop immediate rapport.

Most people are not good at this naturally. Build this into your sales plan. I know it’s an invisible element, but it matters. It probably matters more than your product or service. Write down exactly how you will get better at creating rapport, being likable, trustable and deserving of respect. While this all happens in a matter of seconds, it’s a bigger task than you may think.

Second, differentiate wildly in ways that matter to the customer, not to you. Your plan should clearly outline the key reasons you are a better choice than your competition, and it needs to ring your clients’ bell. Know the biggest, most compelling reasons they buy. What are the

key influencing factors that drive most of your target audience’s buying decisions? Develop a dialogue around those factors.

The third thing is excellence in delivering on the promise of your product or service. Nothing can cripple a great sales plan faster than poor delivery or fulfillment. It will kill your referrals and worse, it deflates and discourages your sales staff, even when that sales staff is you, the business owner.

Know thy Client

When we launched our countertop sales business, we went so far as to draw little cartoons of the type of client we wanted to serve. We created our plan and that business went from a mere $60,000 its first year to being in the top 5 percent of all businesses in America in five short years.

The better you know your clients, the more you can communicate with them in ways that matter to them.

Crafting the Perfect Sales Message

Here’s the final key to sales success. If you master this one, everything works. If not, everything fails. You must be able to articulate a clear and compelling sales message — one that rings true to the potential client. I’ve seen companies miss this one that have had to close their doors after 30 years in business.

If you don’t take the time to develop a message that causes buyers to stop, step back and consider new information, then to lean toward buying from you, you will struggle to make sales. The process of crafting your winning sales message can mean the difference between success and failure. These are the things most businesses fail to do. And as a result, most businesses fail.

Choose to be in the top tier of businesses that do the right things, not just the easy things. In doing this, you will all but guarantee your success in sales.

About the AuthorKirk Heiner is an author, speaker, and sales and communication coach that helps companies create their Perfect Sales Message. He’s the founder of KBExpo.com and has worked in the countertop industry for more than 20 years. He can be contacted at [email protected].




When most people think of solid surface, the first thought that comes to mind is

countertops. Recently, though, many designers have begun to see the value of solid surface as a millwork item. The same tools that are used to make cabinets are also used to work with solid surface. In fact, any door you see made out of wood can be made out of solid surface. Additionally, because of the ability to thermoform solid surface, designs that are difficult to build using wood can in some cases become quite easy using solid surface.

However, using solid surfaces on doors is just the beginning. Some of the other areas that solid surface can be utilized on are: fronts of reception desk, soffits, chair rails, light valances, interiors of cabinets — the list is really endless. There are even whole buildings, right now, that have already been clad with solid surface material.

So with solid surface making its way into more and more applications, it brings up the question, “Why is this trend taking place?” In my opinion, long-term value is the main reason. Solid surface is renewable and repairable. It doesn’t fade or stain over time; it looks great years and years later. When you think of it, the only building material with a nationwide team of repair companies already established (because all of the major solid surface companies warranty their product) is in the solid surface world. Building and maintenance managers love this about solid surface.

If there is any area that needs more attention, it needs to be given to millwork shops as to how to incorporate solid surface into their millwork plans. The reason is that many solid surface opportunities that come in the door are changed because millwork shops don’t know if using solid surface for a given application is even possible. And rather than face the indecision, they work to change specs to another product.

With that in mind, let’s review some of the areas solid surface can be used in a millwork setting.

Solid Surface Doors

Doors can be fabricated out of all of the three common thicknesses of solid surface available: 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 inch.

Using 1/4-in. thicknesses: The most common way to handle this thickness is to build up all four edges and set the build up back enough to accept hinges. The thickness you end up with is 1/2 inch. This depth does not allow for hinge boring but you can drill for inserts.

Using 1/2-in. thicknesses: You can build up all four edges to achieve a 1-in. thickness. This depth allows for hinge boring the same as you would use for wood construction.

Using 3/4-in. thicknesses: This is the same basic process as most wooden doors; so again, there is a lot of room for hinges.

With regard to solid surface doors, one question that comes up is “Do they need more hinges?” The answer to that question depends on the weight of the door. The best way to determine this is to keep in mind the weight restrictions of the hinges. (Your hinge supplier should be able to help you with this). Also, you obviously need to know the weight of the solid surface. For example, one common sheet manufacturer has

a weight of 4.5 lbs. per sq. ft. for its ½-in.-thick solid surface. Knowing this, you can calculate the weight of each door to see if the hinge requirement is acceptable. Remember, though, that different manufacturers may have different weight to their sheets, depending on the make-up. It never hurts to double check.

With some large doors that fit on tall cabinets you could face a warping issue. One solution is to run cross supports in the back of the door. I have also seen metal imbedded into the solid surface and then solid surface is applied back over the metal. An extra step for sure, but certainly one with long lasting benefits!

Solid Surface Drawer Boxes

Drawers and drawer fronts are being fabricated out of solid surface. The concept is the same as making wood boxes. Drawer slides can be attached the same as wood construction. The drawer fronts can be installed by screwing them directly into the solid surface as you would with a wood drawer front and box. Then you add inserts into the back of the solid surface drawer front and attach it from there. Note: Some have asked if you can simply attach the drawer fronts using silicone. This is definitely not recommended. You really need a mechanical fastener for this application for longevity and integrity of the construction.

Solid Surface Cabinet Frames

Another option when using solid surface in millwork applications is to blend wood construction with solid surface. This can allow you to take advantage of the best properties of both materials.

From the desk of Jon Olson

Shop Management MattersSolid Surface and Millwork


If there is any area that needs more attention, it needs to be given to millwork shops as to

how to incorporate solid surface into their millwork plans.


One of the best ways to do this is to make cabinet carcasses out of wood and apply solid surface frames and styles. This is really very easy to apply. All that is needed is a good bead of silicone and proper set-up time while clamping.

Side Points

One thing to keep in mind while boring or drilling into solid surface is to make sure your tooling is carbide-tipped. Most tools are, but it’s worth mentioning here just to be on the safe side.

Also, an outstanding mechanical application for solid surface is the “squirrel fixing system” made by a fantastic company in England called Cutting Edge. This little device allows you to bolt directly to solid surface. You can find out more about it at www.squirrels-uk.com/index.htm. We have used this device many times while building solid surface cabinets, and it can be really useful.

These are just some reasons and ways to use solid surface in millwork. Hospitals already understand the value of it and the movement is on. Now, with newer additives in different brands of solid surface that fight germs, I believe the demand will be even greater. I think that as we become more green aware, residential designers will start looking at alternatives to wood, and one of the different varieties of recycled solid surface might fill a need. It is worth your effort to take the time to learn all you can about this new emerging opportunity!

About the AuthorJon Olson is the online marketing and sales, social media, market development and communications manager at Sterling Surfaces/Kitchen Associates, in Sterling, Mass. A solid surface fabricator since 1982, he has gained experience in all phases of fabrication, specializing in 3-D solid surface thermoforming.

Jon is a past recipient of the ISFA Fabricator of the Year award and the ISFA Innovator of the Year. He can be reached at [email protected].

FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR •



ISFA Is Geared Up to Take International Woodworking Fair by StormThe International Woodworking Fair (IWF) is quickly approaching and for the countertop fabricator it brings with it a lot of opportunities. This year IWF is hosting a full-day Countertops Symposium put on by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), which promises to be a great learning opportunity. ISFA will have a significant presence at the show not only in providing the curriculum for the symposium, but also with a booth, Annual Members Meeting and a Networking Event.

A big focus of ISFA has always been to provide educational opportunities for the industry. In some cases this has been hands-on fabrication training, and in others it has been connecting people and letting them share their real life experiences. As such, ISFA’s participation in IWF in Atlanta again this year is just such an effort. The show runs from August 21 to 25, and includes full-day symposiums, educational sessions and exhibit hall. ISFA will be at Booth #4423, so make it a point to stop by and find out what’s going on with your association (and pick up a ticket for the Networking Event).

Countertop SymposiumKicking off the show, ISFA is once again putting on a full-day symposium in Atlanta. The seminar, “Examining Countertop Options: Turning Opportunities into Profit,” is designed to provide a wealth of information to established countertop fabricators, as well as cabinetmakers and casework providers who are exploring best practices for resourcing within the countertop market. Don’t miss this opportunity to gather intelligence on the countertop market and get access to some of the best minds in the countertop industry today!

The presenters include the owners of successful countertop and architectural millwork companies who are well versed in the technology, techniques and business requirements of countertop operations. The session covers both residential and commercial operations, and encompasses

information on solid surface, quartz surfacing, stone, laminate and a variety of other countertop options. It includes discussions on materials, machinery, outsourcing vs. in-house fabrication, countertop trends and more.

Speakers include Russ Berry, President of A.S.S.T and ISFA, Mike Nolan, owner of countertop company Windbound Co. and ISFA Director of Education, David Paxton, owner of Paxton Countertops, and Kevin Cole, Communications Director for ISFA. Those wishing to attend can sign up on the IWF website (www.IWFatlanta.com), call (404) 693-8333 or even register on-site the day of the event.

The event is sponsored by Laser Products Industries, a supplier of digital templating equipment, Specialtytools.com, a provider of tools and supplies to the countertop industry and SolidSurface.com, an online source for solid surface sheet goods.

ISFA Annual Member Meeting In addition to a booth at the show, join your fellow ISFA members on the opening day of IWF for its Annual Member Meeting where business will be conducted, this year’s winners of the coveted ISFA Awards will be announced, the Board of Director election results will be revealed, and you can meet the ISFA directors, staff and fellow members.

It’s a great opportunity to get involved and find out what ISFA has planned for the future.

All current active ISFA members are invited to the meeting.

The meeting will be immediately followed by a networking event. Snacks and drinks will be served along with this great opportunity to share with and learn from your industry peers.

Date: August 22, 2012

Location: IWF, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta

Room: Section 4 of the Thomas Murphy Ballroom (Building B, Upper Level)

Time: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.

A networking event is to follow immediately after the annual meeting from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

IWF Networking Event Immediately following the ISFA Annual Meeting, will be an IWF Networking Event. This is a great opportunity to spend time with your peers, make new connections, meet the ISFA Board of Directors and staff, reconnect with old friends, find out what ISFA has been up to and pick up some useful information. The event, scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., is in the same room as the ISFA Annual Meeting that precedes it (the Thomas Murphy Ballroom, Building B, Upper Level). Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served.

The ISFA-IWF Networking Event is sponsored by Eurosoft, makers of software for design, estimating, quoting and manufacturing countertops.

Please RSVP to [email protected] or call the ISFA office at (877) 464-7732 to make sure your spot is reserved.

Taking advantage of the information out there and making connections with others can be an important part of growth and success. Don’t miss the opportunities.

For more information on any of these events, contact ISFA at (877) 464-7732 or email Meg Pettingill at [email protected]. Special thanks to these sponsors, whose assistance is making the Countertops Symposium and the ISFA Networking Event possible.

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About Your Business



By Dan Louis

If you listen to the national news, you know that businesses are just not hiring. Most manufacturing and service organizations are becoming more “lean” to make up for the downturn in business that we have experienced. So what are they doing to become lean? Being more efficient is the simple answer, but you may think “we’re already as efficient as we can be.” Maybe not. I’d like to propose a handful of “what ifs” for you to consider.

1. What if you used no paper to sell, template and make a job in the shop? Surveys show that a 10-kitchen-per-week fabricator stands to save about $11,000 annually on paper, toner, envelopes, stamps and labor. That’s 40 cents per ft. at 10 kitchens per week. Plus the elimination of “I can’t read Bob’s writing” or “I lost the worksheet” type issues. And you’re making your operation more “green.”

2. What if you didn’t buy any Coroplast, lauan, hot melt glue, etc. at all anymore? Look at that annual bill once! (Besides we should cut down trees to build things, not throw them away.)

3. What if you could cut down on trucks and gas for them? What if you don’t even have to bring the templates to the shop? Just email them back from the job. You would save plenty of gas and using a car instead of a truck would use less gas too! (Usually green costs more; here it costs less.)

4. What if instead of two or three installers whittling away for one to two hours at the tops at the job to make it fit, the tops fit right and only quick things like cooktop cutouts or faucet holes and seams would need any attention? That’s two to six man hours or around $40 to $120 for each job. It could mean $1 to $2 per ft. less cost and fewer broken or lost tools too!

5. What if your rework/scrap costs were reduced from six kitchens per 100 down to one? If you use only $1,200 to rework or remake a top, then you just saved $72 per kitchen (another $1.50

per ft.) Most fabricators, who aren’t too proud to admit it, say they can go from 8 to 10 percent screw-ups to less than 1 percent.

6. What if you have a CNC but are digitizing templates in the shop from sticks and glue templates? First, you’re making a second attempt at interrupting the top and another half hour to do it with yet another person. Remember the game of Post Office when a phrase went around the room and didn’t make any sense when it reached the final person? Again, that’s labor, time and money.

If you do a little simple math on items 1 through 6 above, you should get about a $5 per ft. or more decrease in cost per job. That’s $250 per job on an average 50-ft. project. I’d say that’s lean and green, too!

If that sounds good, you should take a look at digital templating. You might say, “Heck, I can route an edge at the job on solid surface; that’s easy.” But it’s time, and time is money that you shouldn’t be spending.

If you aren’t working with granite, you may start to see more opportunities there but don’t want to invest $500,000 in equipment to do it. If you sub out a job to a granite fabricator, you should pay $2 to $3 less if you supply a digital file because they can’t fix a profile on a granite job at the jobsite — and most all count on digitally templated jobs to fit right the first time.

Some digital templating systems will do some of the things above and some will do all of them. The cost will be somewhere between, $13,000 and $23,000. They all carry the same accuracy (about 1mm or 1/32 in.), but you don’t always get what you pay for, so research which system works best for your needs. What features you’ll need and your budget usually dictate where you’ll end up. Do the math. Depending on the number of jobs you handle per month, you may be able to pay for a system in just one to three months, and that’s a very fast return on your investment.

If you financed a templating system for one year, the math says that the 10-kitchen-per-week fabricator would stand to see

a bump in cash flow of about $9,000 to $11,000 per month. That’s more than $100,000 per year, which equals about what it would cost to finance a waterjet-saw and stone CNC router, if you really want to take the granite plunge in-house.

Oh, by the way, you can write off ALL of these capital equipment costs the year that you buy them. If you don’t like paying taxes (like me), and you have around $13,000 in profit, you will pay somewhere around $5,000 in taxes and own NO equipment in the process. So, look at your profit picture as the year comes close to the third quarter, and you may decide to own a money-making piece of equipment instead of giving the government your money. Heck, you worked for it!

It’s all about being the low-cost producer in your market and doing more right things than the other guy. When you make a kitchen for 20 percent less than your competitor, you have two choices. One, sell for the same price you normally do and make 20 percent more, or two, reduce the price to crush the competition.

There’s a commercial that ran recently with a new car amongst a bunch of obsolete things, like a phone booth, Atari, eight-track tape player, etc., and everything was being pulled back by what seemed like a big magnet. Suddenly the driver sped forward and the caption read, “If you’re not moving forward, you’re going backwards.” It rang true.

For all of you who think you’re fine with the way you’ve been doing it for years, imagine having surgery done by a doctor who hasn’t kept up on any new technology. Get the point!

About the Author

Dan Louis is CEO of Laser Products Industries, a supplier of digital templating equipment. For more information contact him at (630) 679-1300 or by email at [email protected].

Tightening the Belt in Tight Times Taking Advantage of Digital Templating

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The Countertop Shop, in Holland, Ohio, is a prime example of how research and planning can make a real difference when it comes to building a successful fabrication business. The moves are calculated; involvement is key; the changes are well reasoned; and investment in both employees and technology is not an afterthought. And these key elements have led to a growing business and a good example for others.

In the Beginning

The principal owners of The Countertop Shop are Mike and Karen Langenderfer, who 24 years ago decided to get into business for themselves. Their business venture wasn’t without growing pains, but it eventually led them down their current path which has served them well.

“After 32 years of marriage, three children, three grandchildren, and three business ventures, we are still together,” said Mike Langenderfer. “After researching numerous businesses that were for sale, in 1988 we decided to start a business from scratch. It was a sign company called Signs Plus.”

They operated the business together for the first

year and then brought on a partner. However, after the second year in the sign business, the Langenderfers had an opportunity to purchase a commercial cabinet company, and so decided to sell their stake in the sign venture.

In 1990 they took over a cabinet business and it propelled them through the next 13 years. However, by 2001, they were looking for a way to expand and diversify the business. That is where countertops came into the picture, and took over.

“We purchased a small residential countertop shop in June of 2001,” explained Mike. “By 2003 the countertop business was outperforming the cabinet business, so we decided to close the cabinet company and focus on our biggest area of revenue by devoting ourselves to expanding the countertop business.”

Originally offering laminate and solid surface countertops only, The Countertop Shop did very well. However, in the early 2000s, granite prices dropped and demand increased, prompting Langenderfer to expand into the hard and shiny.

“In 2003 we decided to add stone fabrication equipment and broaden our offerings to the

residential market,” explained Mike. “The new equipment we invested in also allowed us to offer several additional products which boosted our sales.”

So along with granite, the company also began offering quartz surfacing products, but it didn’t take the investment lightly and did plenty of research before deciding on what equipment would best serve the shop.

Investing in Technology

There is no doubt that when it comes to technology, the Langenderfers see it as an investment — one that they expect a return on. And making such investments carefully has served their company well.

After looking at several brands and talking to others in the business, the first piece of stone equipment purchased by The Countertop Shop was a Park Industries Yukon Bridge Saw. Then in 2007 the company added a Park Destiny CNC stone center, and in September 2011 replaced the bridgesaw with a Park Fusion saw/waterjet combination machine. “Each upgrade increased our capacity and allowed us to increase sales,” explained Langenderfer. “The saw/waterjet machine alone has increased our production by more than 30 percent.”

But the company’s stone equipment isn’t the only area they have taken advantage of the available technology advancements. “Over the years we have made many changes in our procedures and the equipment we use,” said Mike. “A very helpful tool is our scheduling software: the Moraware Job Tracker System. It

Fabricator Profile: The Countertop Shop

Michael Langenderfer, owner of The Countertop Shop, and daughter Melissa Langenderfer, operations manager, in the showroom.

PHOTO BY RICK VOLKMAN

PHOTO BY SARAH SOBEL-POAGE

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 31 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 31

allows everyone in the office to have real-time information on everything from the customer’s name to the date the job was completed and everything in between. It even allows us to log onto jobs from the field to check information or make changes. Plus we can give customers password-protected access to the system so they can check the status of their orders or look up past orders.”

Another area that has had a large effect on operations is with templating. Like most fabricators, The Countertop Shop started out using wood strips and hot-melt glue guns to make stick templates. However, when the company purchased CNC equipment, it became apparent that its templating process was out-of-date.

“We went from stick templates to a photo template system where with the aid of special targets, tape and a camera we took photographs of the jobsite and downloaded them to a computer,” said Langenderfer. “The computer then processed the photos into a format that the CNC could understand to cut the material to the template produced by the photo system.”

And in 2010, the company once again revamped its templating process by switching over to a laser-based templating system that is not only fast and accurate, but allows the templator to produce an actual drawing at

the jobsite so the customer can see what their countertop will look like. “The Laser Products LT‐55 system is accurate, and it’s always helpful to be able to show the customer what an overhang or corner will look like,” commented Mike.

The Langenderfers give a lot of credit to the equipment and software they have made use of as their business advanced, but they also give credit to their employees, who are also highly valued and dependable.

Employees as Investments

“The most important resources that we have invested in over the years are our employees,” said Langendefer unequivocally. “We have extremely dedicated employees and a very small percentage of turnover. They are always making suggestions about where we can save money or do a procedure more efficiently. Their suggestions allow us to produce top-quality products and help to secure their future.”

The company currently employs seven production workers, four installers and eight office staff, including programmers, salespeople and a templator. Among the staff are also two family members, who are fundamental elements of the operation. “Two of our children, Melissa and Nick, are integral parts of the business,” explained Mike. “Nick, along with Jim Schuster, our other salesperson, handle inside and

outside sales, and Melissa runs the operations of the company.”

Along with the family ties that make for an environment where trust is long-developed, The Countertop Shop is very careful about who it brings into its operation. “All of our employees have had background checks and drug testing so our customers can feel confident knowing that we only use skilled and qualified personnel,” explained Langenderfer. “They all wear company uniforms and are required to maintain good personal hygiene and appearance.”

Another thing that unites the company’s staff is the focus that is placed on uniting the group under a common goal. “Our mission statement is something we keep in mind every day,” said Mike. “The purpose of The Countertop Shop is to provide all orders, to all customers, complete and on time with no excuses. [Our goal is] to do everything above average from the quality of our finished products to the effort we put forth to meet the customer’ expectations.”

As such, real emphasis is placed on the sales staff making the customer feel a part of the team. It is this development of partnership and connection that engages the customers and helps to set the proper expectations. And this feeling of partnership also extends to the Langenderfers’ community.


Kris Garber operates the Park Fusion combination waterjet/saw that The Countertop Shop upgraded to in 2011. The investment increased production capability by more than 30 percent.

In 2003 the company broadened into stone fabrication, allowing it to offer several additional products that boosted sales. Today granite and quartz fabrication account for about 80 percent of its business.

PHOTO BY SARAH SOBEL-POAGE PHOTO BY SARAH SOBEL-POAGE


Connections Count

An important part of the philosophy behind The Countertop Shop is making connections with peers, whether they are local, such as the Toledo Home Builders Association, Remodelers Association and the Regional Chamber of Commerce; or a larger national or even international peer group.

“Because of our connections to area organizations, we feel confident we have a good idea about the local market,” said Langenderfer. “And as a board member of the Small Business Development Center at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce and the vice president and president‐elect of the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), I am in touch on a regular basis with other fabricators and businesspeople from all around the country and even Europe.”

He notes that these connections allow the Langenderfers to help others in similar situations, but that the knowledge they bring are invaluable to his business.

“By being members of those associations and organizations, we are able to give back to the community and the industry,” said Langenderfer. “But the biggest benefit of giving back is what we gain in return. Those groups hold us up and reinforce us. They often boost our morale. By hearing what is going on in the area and discussing the industry with our peers, we are encouraged that we are on the right track. By being able to share our experiences, opinions, advice and suggestions, we are able to make intelligent decisions and can try to avoid the problems and pitfalls that others have already experienced.

“When you give your time and talent, you get it back in many ways,” he expounded. “I have never attended an ISFA event that I did not come home from with an idea that would make us money and/or a better company. I swear that my success today has a lot to do with what I’ve heard or learned at ISFA functions. The Million Dollar Mentor Program literally turned my business around. You truly get back more than you give, but you have to give to get a return. By giving my time as an ISFA board member, attending ISFA events and industry trade shows, I have been blessed with many friends in the industry and around the world. It’s our industry and we really need to be involved. If you want to be successful and grow your business, you need to surround yourself with successful people and ISFA is the place to do that.”

The Business Today

Today the company fabricates and installs everything from laminate to granite, including solid surface, quartz surfacing, recycled products, wood and even concrete countertops. The brands run the full gamut, including Cambria, DuPont Corian and Zodiaq, Silestone, LG HI-MACS and Viatera, Caesarstone, Hanstone, Formica, Gibraltar, Staron and Livingstone.

It operates out of a 10,000-sq.-ft. building with about 2,000 sq. ft. used for office and showroom space, and is looking at the options to buy or build a larger facility.

The Countertop Shop is currently producing about 60,000 sq. ft. of

FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • The Countertop Shop (continued from page 31)

PHOTOS BY RICK VOLKMAN

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 1 • 33 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 33 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 33

product per year from a single production shift, with most of the work being wholesale to kitchen and bath dealers, builders, remodelers and box stores. The company also handles a few light commercial jobs and a small amount of walk-in retail business. About 80 percent is done in stone or quartz, 15 percent in solid surfaces and 5 percent in laminate, with half from remodeling, 30 percent from light commercial and 20 percent from new construction.

Recent projects have included Daughter’s House (Bowling Green, Ohio), Davis Street Building (Findlay, Ohio), Lima Memorial Hospital (Lima, Ohio), St. Rita’s Medical Center (Lima, Ohio), Habitat For Humanity (four Northwest Ohio locations), McDonald’s Restaurants (more than 20 Northwest Ohio locations), Norwalk Fischer Titus Center (Norwalk, Ohio), Olander Park (Sylvania, Ohio), Scott High School (Toledo, Ohio), Toledo Hospital (Toledo, Ohio), Browning Masonic (Waterville, Ohio), and some remote Disneyland projects.

“Our equipment, software and personnel allow us to service a large market area,” commented Langenderfer. “We try to stay within a market area that allows our installers to travel and install in a single day, but our days sometimes get pretty long.”

The Countertop Shop primarily services northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, but on occasion ventures into Cleveland and Cincinnati. It also takes on special projects for current customers that also have projects in the local area, and have shipped as far as California and even traveled to Philadelphia for a large retirement project.

But perhaps a better way to define a business is not where it has been, but where it is going, and Mike and Karen Langenderfer have plenty of goals for the company.

Looking Ahead

The main goal continues to be living by the company’s mission statement of meeting all customers’ expectations. And with the growth the business has experienced, it is a safe bet those goals are being attended to. “By educating customers and helping them with all the decisions that have to be made when ordering a countertop, we try to make them feel as good about their purchase as we can,” said Mike, outlining his customer philosophy. “We try to set all appointments for templating and installation around the customer’s schedule to make their countertop purchase as stress-free as possible.”

However, when asked about the future of the company, Langenderfer’s answer is introspective with hints of both solid planning and malleability. “I think I am a pretty good listener and I only say that because that’s where we are headed,” he put forth. “I try to listen to what the customers, my peers and the market are saying. Then we try to stay on the crest of the wave. Our long‐term goal is to continue to be a vital part of the local business community by modestly growing the business and offering leading-edge products and services to our customers.”

And that seems to be a good reflection of the past, present and probable future of The Countertop Shop.

For more information, contact The Countertop Shop at 10406 Geiser Road, Holland, Ohio 43528; phone (419) 868-9101; website www.thecountertopshop.net; email [email protected].


“By discussing the industry with our peers and sharing our experiences, opinions, advice and suggestions we are able to make intelligent decisions and can try to avoid the problems and pitfalls others have already experienced.”

PHOTOS BY RICK VOLKMAN


For most of us the term “Compact Grade Panel” means next to nothing. To ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) it means, “self-supporting, double-faced (laminate), usually thicker than 5 mm, the thickness of which will be selected according to application and panel dimensions.” In plain English that means a solid core panel comprised of many layers of phenolic-saturated kraft paper sandwiched between top and bottom layers of decorative paper, all protected with a melamine coating.

“Compact Grade Panels are about great design, color and performance,” said Tony Damiano, president of ABET, Inc., the American arm of ABET Laminati, which produces Stratificato Print HPL compact grade panels. “To be more specific, it is about great European design.”

Produced in Bra, Italy, Stratificato is one of a handful of compact grade panel brands available in the United States and Europe. Other brands include Trespa, Formica, Polyrey, Resopal, Arpa

and Fundermax. Compact grade panels are typically used in furniture, residential/commercial tables, vanities, locker rooms, commercial work surfaces, column wraps, wall cladding, medical, school and laboratory applications. They are also great for kitchen countertops.

“But not the typical American-style countertop,” explained Damiano. “The 1 1/2-in. drop edge so common in the United States doesn’t lend itself well to the Stratificato concept. Our material is more for high-end kitchens featuring simple, sleek design with European cabinetry. The reality is that even though you can seam Stratificato with good results, drop edges are probably not the best application.”

ABET, Inc. and ISFA According to Damiano, where Compact Grade

Compact Grade Panels — The next new Thing?By Russ Lee

Imagine a super-thick laminate that requires no substrate, uses no

contact adhesives, can be joined and machined using standard

woodworking tools, is available in hundreds of colors and patterns

(plus custom patterns), is suitable for wet environments, is not

harmful to the environment and offers stain and chemical resistance.

While you are imagining, why not conjure up a material that is

structurally self-supporting, will accept screws and fasteners, and

comes in a variety of textural finishes?

Welcome to the world of Compact Grade Panels.

Although Compact Grade Panels are made with a thermoset resin, which makes them difficult to thermoform, ABET has developed a process for creating shapes with Stratificato.

Compact Grade Panels are perfectly suited as a surfacing material in Euro-style kitchens that feature sleek, simple lines.

The range of color options with Compact Grade Panels makes them attractive, durable and easy to maintain.


Panels really shine are in the commercial arena. “The physical properties of the product — highly resistant to chemicals, nonporous, high wear characteristics — make it suitable for operating rooms and clean rooms,” he explained. “Because it is self-supporting, accepts screws and fasteners and doesn’t support bacteria, it is popular for use as lockers and benches in locker rooms, or as cabinet carcasses and door fronts in commercial environments. There are many potential applications for the product that we are just now learning about.”

According to Damiano, that is the main reason why ABET, Inc. joined ISFA. “ISFA members have the knowledge and experience we need. While we possess a certain degree of technical expertise gained mostly from decades of experience in Europe, we recognize that the American market is a different animal,” he explained. “We deal with architects and designers on a regular basis; we know their world and what makes them tick. In fact, we do more than 300 presentations a year to these folks and we can drive specifications. Yet, when it comes to actually producing the job and getting it installed, we gladly defer to the experts. And we find those experts within the ISFA organization.”

Creating those relationships with fabricators gives ABET, Inc. the confidence to encourage architects and designers to reach for the moon when it comes to design. Not only are Compact Grade Panels available in hundreds of colors and a range of textural finishes; custom images, such as logos or photography, can be permanently embedded into the panels with very low minimum quantities. In Stratifico, the phenolic core is available in black, gray, cream or white, or can even be produced in multicolored layers.

What About the Environment? “Stratificato is quite Earth-friendly,” said Damiano. “It is comprised of 70 percent cellulose, the bulk of which is obtained from scrap pulp, where available. There is some phenolic resin and some resin (melamine) that is a derivative of nitrogen and carbon dioxide, both of which are readily available. In other words, it’s mostly made from the same material as paper shopping bags. Compact Grade Panels have a high calorific value, which means they are well-suited for recovery in waste-to-recovery plants. Life Cycle studies show that Compact Grade Panels outlast the time it takes to grow or produce the pulp from which it is mostly made.”

He pointed out that because no substrate is required with these panels, environmentally unfriendly chemicals that may be present in contact adhesives or in the formulation of particleboard are completely avoided. Additionally, neither asbestos nor heavy metals are used during the production cycle, and there is no off-gassing of the product after installation.

“This is one of those materials that can be used as eye candy for decades with no reduction in performance and without danger to the environment,” he said. “Then, when it has run its course, Stratificato can be reclaimed in a waste recovery plant. That’s sustainability.”

Are There Drawbacks? The irony of Compact Grade Panels is that even though the material is suited for use in damp or even extremely wet conditions, it is susceptible to warping if the humidity is not equalized on both sides of the panel. The trick is to engineer the installation so that air movement is created on both the front and the back sides of the panel. If that is done correctly, it doesn’t matter how wet the environment.

“We have invested considerable resources into determining the best way to handle, store and install Stratificato to completely avoid problems with warping,” explained Damiano. “We have decades of research and experience in Europe to fall back on. Sometimes we find fabricators who don’t want to follow procedures which seem foreign to them. That’s when they can get into trouble.”

Damiano indicates that the ideal Compact Grade Panel fabricator has experience in the commercial arena, has an automated shop, is open to following specific fabrication guidelines and has an interest in interacting directly with specifiers when they have questions.

“It’s a design-driven product with a lot of potential,” he said. “When we bring out the Stratificato sample box during an architect’s presentation, the atmosphere of expectation in the room is suddenly ratcheted up a notch. It’s electric.”

About the Author

Russ Lee, president of sitesNsolutions.com, is a consultant to the countertop industry with more than 30 years’ experience as a fabricator, manufacturer and marketing professional. He also worked as editor of Solid Surface magazine and as executive director of ISFA.

More information is available by contacting ABET, Inc. at (201) 541-0700 or on the Web at www.abetllaminati.com/products-page/laminate/Specialty_Laminates1/.

Compact Grade Panels are comprised of many layers of phenolic saturated kraft paper sandwiched between decorative layers and a melamine coating.

Overlay

Decorative Layer

Decorative Layer

Overlay

Phenolic Kraft Paper

ABET has developed a process for seaming solid surface undermount bowls into Stratificato panels.

Because they are self-supporting, accept screws and hardware and are non-porous, Compact Grade Panels are ideal for locker rooms, restroom cubicles, etc.

Applying a finish to the solid phenolic core is accomplished with typical sanding abrasives. The recommended final finish is sanding with a 30-micron disc. The face of the panel requires no sanding.


ISFA at IWFISFA will be participating at the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) in Atlanta again this year. The show runs from August 21 to 25, and includes full-day symposiums, educational sessions and a packed exhibit hall. ISFA will be at Booth #4423, and will also be working within the IWF education program, holding its annual member meeting, as well as hosting a networking event.

At the request of IWF organizers, on August 21 ISFA is once again putting on a full-day symposium in conjunction with the show. The seminar, “Examining Countertop Options: Turning Opportunities into Profit” is designed to provide a wealth of information to established countertop fabricators, as well as cabinetmakers and casework providers who are exploring best practices for resourcing within the countertop market.

The presenters include the owners of successful countertop and architectural millwork companies who are well versed in the technology, techniques and business requirements of countertop operations. The session covers both residential and commercial operations, and encompasses information on solid surface, quartz surfacing, stone, laminate and a variety of other countertop options. It includes discussions on materials, machinery, outsourcing vs. in-house fabrication, countertop trends and more. Speakers include Russ Berry, president of ISFA and Allegheny Solid Surface Technologies (ASST); Mike Nolan, owner of Windbound Countertop Co. and ISFA Director of Education; David Paxton, owner of Paxton Countertops; and Kevin Cole, ISFA Communications Director.

The event is sponsored by Laser Products Industries, a supplier of digital templating equipment; Specialtytools.com, a provider of tools and supplies to the countertop industry; and SolidSurface.com, an online source for solid surface sheet goods.

Those wishing to attend can sign up on the IWF website (www.IWFatlanta.com), call (404) 693-8333 or even register on-site the day of the event.

ISFA Annual Member Meeting It’s not too late to join your fellow ISFA members at IWF for the Annual Member Meeting on August 22. Business will be conducted and this year’s winners of the coveted ISFA Awards will be announced. Additionally, the Board of Director election results will be revealed and you can meet the ISFA Board, staff and fellow members. It’s a great opportunity to get involved, voice your opinions, find out what ISFA has been up to and what is planned for the future.

All current active ISFA members are invited to the meeting.

ISFA will be hosting a networking event following the member meeting. Snacks and drinks will be served .

Date: August 22, 2012

Location: IWF, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta

Room: Section 4 of the Thomas Murphy Ballroom (Building B, Upper Level)

Time: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Please RSVP to [email protected] or call the ISFA office at (877) 464-7732.

IWF Networking Event Immediately following the ISFA Annual Meeting will be an IWF Networking Event. This is a great opportunity to spend time with your peers, make new connections, meet the ISFA Board of Directors and staff, reconnect with old friends, find out what ISFA has been up to and pick up some useful information. The event, scheduled from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. is in the same room as the ISFA Annual Meeting that precedes it (the Thomas Murphy Ballroom, Building B, Upper Level). Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served.

The ISFA-IWF Networking Event is sponsored by Eurosoft, makers of software for design, estimating, quoting and manufacturing countertops.

Please RSVP to [email protected] or call the ISFA office at (877) 464-7732 to make sure your spot is reserved.

Here.Now.News.

Upcoming ISFA Training & EventsFor more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, visit www.ISFAnow.com or contact Meg Pettingill at (877) 464-7732 or [email protected].

ISFA/IWF Countertops Symposium Aug. 21 • Atlanta, Ga.

ISFA Annual Member Meeting Aug. 22 • Atlanta, Ga.

ISFA IWF Networking Event Aug. 22 • Atlanta, Ga.

ISFA Level I Solid Surface Training Sept. 10 – 13 • Orem, Utah

ISFA Level II Solid Surface Training Sept. 17 – 20 • Orem, Utah

ISFA Level I Quartz/Stone Training Oct. 22 – 25 • Las Vegas, Nev.

ISFA Level II Quartz/Stone Repair Training Oct. 26 – 27 • Las Vegas, Nev.

ISFA Level I Solid Surface Training Nov. 12 – 15 • Orem, Utah

Continued on page 37

ISFA Annual Award Nominees AnnouncedISFA Award Winners to be Named at Annual Meeting in AugustThe International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) announced the nominees for its annual awards. The ISFA awards are chosen by association members, and given to those in the industry who have distinguished themselves through creativity, innovative contributions to the industry, public service or other noteworthy activities. The winners will be announced at ISFA’s Annual Member Meeting to be held on August 22, 2012, in Atlanta in conjunction with the International Woodworking Fair (IWF).


Nominated for top honors, the Hall of Fame Award, were industry veterans Jack Hussey, of Jack’s Custom Woodworking in Woburn, Mass., and Chuck Sawyer, an industry consultant who has worked with such companies as Formica, Fountainhead and, most recently, Basix, to name a few. The Hall of Fame award is given to the individual who has in the course of his/her career, made significant contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the ideals of ISFA.

Hussey was an early adapter to solid surface, now having run his business for more than 40 years, and has been a member of ISFA since the beginning. He is a strong advocate for the association and leads by example. Hussey has served as a past state coordinator for ISFA, has always been an innovator in the surfacing industry, and was the 2001 winner of the ISFA Fabricator of the Year Award. Sawyer has worked in the industry for many years, pioneering work in fabrication, warranty and training. He has held many roles at ISFA throughout the years and has been a leader to many. He repeatedly volunteers his time and effort in the service of ISFA and the industry as a whole.

Nominated for the ISFA Fabricator of the Year are Ted Sherrit, of Floform in Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada; Steve Stoddard, of Advanced Surfaces in Corry, Pa.; Ray St. Gelais, of TWD Surfaces in Bridgewater, Mass.; and Jack Hussey, once again of Jack’s Custom Woodworking in Woburn, Mass. The Fabricator of the Year award is given to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year has best exemplified the ISFA ideals of quality, innovation, character and exemplary service to ISFA and/or the decorative surfacing industry, with overall excellence.

Nominated for the ISFA Associate of the Year Award are Cosentino, of Stafford, Texas, and U.S. Surface Warehouse, of Austin, Texas. The Associate of the Year Award is given to an associate member company that in the past year has best exemplified the role of servicing the needs of

fabricator member companies, and who has best supported ISFA in all activities.

Nominated for the ISFA Innovator Award are Karran, in Vincennes, Ind.; EOS Surfaces, in Portsmouth, Va.; and InPro Corporation, in Muskego, Wis. The Innovator Award is for the member firm or individual who goes outside the box to create a product or system that enhances the life or elevates the role of the surface fabricator.

Nominated for the ISFA Envision Award are Rick Wing, of R.D. Wing Enterprises in Kirkland, Wash., and Harry Hollander, of Moraware in Reno, Nev. The Envision Award is given to the member firm or individual that excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry.

ISFA’s Annual Member Meeting, where the award winners will be announced, is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. August 22, at the World Congress Center in Atlanta, in conjunction with IWF. It is open to all industry personnel and will be followed by a networking event. RSVP to [email protected] or by phone at (877) 464-7732 is requested.

ISFANewsUPS WorldShip® Makes Shipping Easy for ISFA Members

(Continued from page 36)

While ISFA members take advantage of discounts on UPS shipping services, you can also manage all of your shipments from your desktop with one click. UPS’ full-featured, global shipping software supports your high-volume shipping needs, allowing you to create UPS package and LTL freight shipments using a single application.

With UPS WorldShip you can: ■ Process and track all of your ground

freight and small package shipments from one system

■ Save time by automating shipment processing to view rates, schedule pickups, and set up customer profiles online

■ Easily export UPS shipment data into your existing billing, warehouse and order management systems

■ Capture all client billing information, making accounting much more efficient

Getting StartedIt’s easy to start saving through the ISFA/UPS Savings Program and shipping with UPS WorldShip. In fact, you can download UPS WorldShip directly to your computer and start shipping in a matter of minutes if you have a UPS pickup account number. > Visit savewithups.com/isfa to enroll > Visit ups.com/worldship to learn more about UPS WorldShip Phone: (866) 443.9303, ext. 4080 Email: [email protected]

ISFA Regional Meeting in Works for CanadaISFA has already held two regional meetings in 2012, with its Annual Member Meeting planned in August at IWF (August 22 at 2:30 p.m., Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, in the Thomas Murphy Ballroom, Building B, Upper Level) and now a Canadian meeting is in the works. These regional meetings, meant to be grass-roots efforts to bring together fabricators that are located regionally, are day-long events that feature opportunities for networking, as well as demonstrations, key-note speakers, vendor presentations and facility tours, plus lunch and door prizes.

The first event was held in February at the International Logistics & Stone Distribution (ILSD) facility in Canton, Mich. The second meeting was in March at the Cosentino Center in Anaheim, Calif. Both were well attended, bringing in many regional fabricators and were great learning and networking opportunities.

After the Annual Member Meeting at IWF, the next regional event is being planned for Canada in September or October in Montreal, and is being hosted by Cosentino. More details on this event will be released as they become available.

Continued on page 38


Those wanting to receive emails regarding ISFA events and promotions, send a request to [email protected] asking to be added to the ISFA email list.For more information on upcoming ISFA regional events, contact ISFA Education Director Mike Nolan at [email protected], or by phone at (828) 403-7386, or contact ISFA Vice President Mike Langenderfer at [email protected].

ISFA Quartz/Granite Class Heads to Las Vegas in OctoberThe Level I Granite/Quartz Total Fabrication Training class, followed by the Level II Granite/Quartz Advanced Repair class, is back on the road in October, and will be held at the Alpha Professional Tools training center in Las Vegas. The course was also held in June in New Jersey and is regularly hosted in Orem, Utah, at Bedrock Quartz near the ISFA Total Fabrication Training Center.

The classes represent an opportunity for fabricators to send new employees to be trained or to pick up an entirely new skill set for the business.

Level I Granite/Quartz Fabrication TrainingLocation: Alpha Professional Tools, Las VegasDate: Oct. 22 - 25, 2012Teaching the four-day class is Fred Hueston, well-known stone industry educator. He has trained thousands of stone craftsmen on fabrication, installation, inspections and restoration of stone and quartz surfacing products.

The course takes students through the essentials of stone fabrication and installation, material handling, safety and shop throughput. The training offers knowledge through theory and hands-on fabrication. Elements of the course include:

■ Safety ■ Product knowledge ■ Productivity concepts ■ Templating ■ Seaming ■ Cutouts ■ Bowl-mounting processes ■ Basic repairs ■ Finishing ■ Installation ■ Support systems

And, for those already skilled in stone fabrication or wanting to get involved in repairing granite and quartz, consider the two-day Level II Advanced Granite/Quartz Repair Training class that immediately follows the Level I Course.

Level II Advanced Granite/Quartz Repair Training Location: Alpha Professional Tools, Las VegasDate: Oct. 26 - 27, 2012The two-day course, also taught by Hueston, includes some classroom instruction, but mostly focuses on hands-on learning. Attendees learn how to repair and polish granite and quartz surfaces. Students will be given several damaged pieces of stone and will actually repair them. Attendees will learn:

■ To repair chips, holes, etc. ■ Scratch removal without refinishing ■ Scratch removal with refinishing ■ Quick tips and tricks for hiding

scratches ■ About abrasives, tools and

chemicals ■ Stain removal

For more information or to register for any of these sessions, contact [email protected] or call (801) 341-7360.

Russ BerryPresidentA.S.S.T.350 South St.McSherrystown, PA 17344Phone: (717) 630-1251 Fax: (717) 630-1271 Email: [email protected] AdamsImmediate Past PresidentTRINDCO1004 Obici Industrial Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23434 Phone: (757) 539-0262Fax: (757) 539-8921 Email: [email protected] www.trindco.comChristina HumistonDirectorBlock Tops, Inc.1560 Harris Ct.Anaheim, CA 92806Phone: (714) 978-5080Fax: (714) 712-4000Email:[email protected] LangenderferVice PresidentThe Countertop Shop Ltd.10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 Phone: (419) 868-9101Fax: (419) 868-9104 Email: [email protected] www.countertopshop.netMike NolanDirector Windbound Co. PO Box 817Glen Alpine, NC 28628Phone: (828) 438-0892Fax: (828) 438-0893 Email: mike@windbound surfaces.com www.windboundhomes.comJon BlasiusDirectorBlasius, Inc.7343 Buell Rd. Vassar, MI 48768Phone: (989) 871-5000Fax: (989) 871-9070Email: [email protected]

Joe HoffmanSecretary Hoffman Fixtures Co. 9421 E. 54th St.Tulsa, OK 74145 Phone: (918) 627-3055Fax: (918) 627-3560 Email: joehoffman@hfc countertops.com www.hfccountertops.comMark AndersonDirector, Associate Member RepresentativeCosentino USA13124 Trinity Dr.Stafford, TX 77477Phone: (866) 268-6837Fax: (281) 494-7299Email: [email protected] PaxtonTreasurerPaxton CountertopsPO Box 174Grand Ledge, MI 48837 Phone: (517) 719-0146 Email: paxtoncountertops @yahoo.comMartin FunckDirector Rosskopf & Partner AG Bahnhofstrabe 16 D 09573 Augustusburg - HennersdorfGermanyPhone: (493) 729-12524 Email: martin.funck@ rosskopf-partner.comwww.rosskopf-partner.com

Michael AstillDirector, Associate Member RepresentativeR. S. Hughes3455 W. 1820 S. #1 Salt Lake City, UT 84104-4906Phone: (801) 973-4211Email: [email protected]

Kevin ColeCommunications Director Email: [email protected]: (815) 721-1507

Mike NolanDirector of EductionEmail: [email protected]: (828) 403-7386

Paul WisnefskiSales AssociateEmail: [email protected] Direct: (262) 498-4184

Meg PettingillAdministrative Assistant & Registrar Email: [email protected] Office: (877) 464-7732 Ext. 10

Main OfficeToll Free: (877) 464-7732 Direct: (801) 341-7360 Fax: (801) 341-7361Email: [email protected]: www.ISFAnow.org165 N. 1330 W. #A3Orem, UT 84057

Board of Directors

ISFA Staff

ISFANews(Continued from page 37)

specialty surfaces Fabricators, manufacturers and experts

Membership Applicationmain: (877) 464-7732 • Fax: (801) 341-7361 • www.IsFAnow.org

Renewal Instructions: To renew your membership with ISFA, simply fill out the Personal Information section, and Payment Method and that’s it! Fax it back to (801) 341-7361 and we’ll do the rest. Please allow 2-4 weeks for your membership renewal packet to be delivered. New Member Instructions: For Surfacing Experts wanting to become a new member, please fill out the entire form. Membership in ISFA is the industry endorsement of high quality. This endorsement cannot be purchased for the price of membership, but must be established by the company and upheld by each member of the organization. Fax this form back to (801) 341-7361 and we’ll do the rest.Your new membership packet will be in the mail shortly. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.



I Am: q Renewing My ISFA Membership q Applying to Become a New Member


Method of Payment

q I am faxing a copy of the check along with this form. (required if paying by check)

Card Type: q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Discover

Card Number: Print Name on Card:

Expiration Date: Official Signature: If paying by check, fax copy along with this order form. You can also mail this form to: ISFA, 165 N 1330 W #A3, Orem, UT 84057

New Member Information

Type of Membership: (please select one)

ISFA Membership: $400 — Any Specialty Surfaces company that has been in business at least two years and carries appropriate liability insurance. Subscriber Membership: $400 — Applicant companies which meet all other qualifications, but have been in business for less than two years shall be eligible for Subscriber Membership in the Association.

Branch Membership: $200 — Branch Membership is available to companies having more than one location. Each location must fill out seperate membership applications. Branch Membership annual dues are one-half that of the headquarters location. Each location wlll be treated as a separate member in all respects, except only headquarter locations may vote in general elections.

Monthly Membership: $35/Monthly

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Sponsorship Information: In order to become a member of ISFA, you need to provide information regarding an ISFA member or company willing to sponsor you. If you do not know what to put in this section, just leave it blank. We will help you with this.

Sponsor Company:

Contact Person: Telephone: Trade Reference: (Please provide a trade reference, generally your distributor of solid surface.)

Trade Reference:

Contact Person: Telephone:

Proof of Insurance: A copy of your certificate of liability insurance must be attached to or faxed with this form to process this application.

Code of Ethics (please sign below)Each member of the International Surface Fabricators Association agrees to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of their business. By adhering strictly to the highest quality standards of fabrication, manufacturing and installation. By promoting only those products and services that are proven quality and value. By writing contracts and warranties that are clear, honest and fair to all parties involved. By honoring all contractual obligations in a reasonably prompt manner. By quickly acting on and attempting to resolve all customer complaints, and in situations where complaints appear unreasonable and persistent, by encouraging the customer to initiate and approach third-party dispute settlement mechanisms. By being fiscally responsible and honoring all legitimate financial obligations, By maintaining all required licenses and insurances.I,_______________________________, do hereby certify that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and do agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of the International Surface Fabricators Association for as long as I hold an active membership therein.


Fabricator DirectoryCompanies in blue are Certified Professionals

ALABAMACarroll’s Contemporary Designs Inc.23585 County Rd. 41 Addison, AL 35540256-462-3540

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.112 David Green Rd. Birmingham, AL 35244-1648205-988-3246www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Surface One 2421 Hwy. 11Pelham, AL 35124205-621-1125www.surface1.com

ALASKAAlaskan Counter Fitters607 Old Steese Hwy., Ste. BPMB 354 Fairbanks, AK 99701907-455-0247

Bicknell Inc.PO Box 33517Juneau, AK 99801907-789-5727www.bicknellinc.com

Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503907-793-3047www.cookinlethousing.org

John BaniaP.O. Box 541Wrangell, AK 99929

Mountain Tops LTD 6605 Arctic Spur Rd. Anchorage, AK 99518907-272-8107www.mountaintops.net

Panco Inc. PO Box 210 Talkeetna, AK 99676907-733-6600

ARIZONAClassy Kitchen and Bath4320 W. Chandler Blvd. Ste. 7Chandler, AZ 85226480-731-1236 www.classykitchenandbath.com

Kirk’s Cabinets & Countertops (Kirk Construction)4807 Hwy. 95Parker, AZ 85344928-667-7306www.kirk-construction.com

Kitchen Bath & Beyond Specializing In Solid Surface 1440 CoronaFort Mojave, AZ 86426928-788-1000

CALIFORNIA Block Tops Inc.1560 Harris Ct.Anaheim, CA 92806714-978-5080www.blocktops.com

Buck, Jason (Superior Surface)3609 Crow Ct.Antelope, CA 95843916-344-3022

Duracite2100 Huntington Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533707-402-1600www.duracite.com

European Artstone Inc. 7316 Bellaire Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91605818-255-5585www.europeanartstone.com

Fischer Tile & Marble1800 23rd St.Sacramento, CA 95816916-452-1426www.fischertile.com

Handyman Connection1740 W. Katella Ave.Orange, CA 92867714-288-0077www.handymanconnection.com

Humboldt Countertops 70 W. 4th St.Eureka, CA 95501707-442-5918www.humtop.com

Integra Cabinets & Millwork249 W. Baywood #BOrange, CA 92865714-283-2890www.integracmw.com

J R Stephens Co.5208 Boyd Rd.Arcata, CA 95521707-825-0100

Lytle Construction Inc. 145 Otto Circle Sacramento, CA 95822916-422-6639www.lytleconstruction.com

Mio Metals400 Western Ave.Petaluma, CA 94952888-530-7630www.miometals.com

Pacific Architectural Millwork1031 Leslie St.LaHabra, CA 90631www.pacmillwork.com562-905-3200

RR Laminates1403 Nichols Dr. Rocklin, CA 95765805-582-7497

Scantibodies9336 Abraham Wy.Santee, CA 92071619-258-9300www.scantibodies.com

Southwest Carpenters Training Fund533 S. Fremont Ave. #401Los Angeles, CA 90071213-739-9335

The Countertop Factory12349 Telegraph Rd.Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net

West Coast Countertops43085 Business Park Dr. BTemecula, CA 92590800-734-8799

COLORADOArlun Inc.6250 Corporate Dr.Colorado Springs, CO 80919719-599-4175

Paragon Granite & Marble14136 Valley Dr. Longmont, CO 80504 970-535-0473

CONNECTICUTDistinctive Countertops LLC6 Tosun Rd. Wolcott, CT 06716 203-879-2835

FLORIDABeverin Solid Surface1108 Palmetto Ave.Lehigh Acres, FL 33972239-368-9444www.beverin.com

Carbide Industries314 Crittenden St.Groveland, FL 34736352-429-8840www.carbideindustries.net

Distinctive Surfaces of Florida Inc. 8272 Vico Ct.Sarasota, FL 34240941-377-7747www.distinctivesurfaces offlorida.com

Natural Stone Motif Inc.870 Sunshine Ln.Altamonte Springs, FL 32714407-774-0676www.naturalstonemotif.com

Reall Cabinetry 1985 Cattlemen Rd., Unit DSarasota, FL 34232941-377-2837

Refresh Interiors Inc. 4641 Lown St. N.St. Petersburg, FL 33714727-527-0206

Surface Crafters 711 Commercial Dr.Holly Hill, FL 32117386-253-0826www.surface-crafters.com

GEORGIA Atlanta Kitchen Inc.196 Rio CircleDecatur, GA 30030404-378-3220www.atlanta-kitchen.com

Countersync 1296 Jones St.Augusta, GA 30901706-828-7544www.countersync.net

Lovell Construction, Inc.21880 Bradbury Rd. Grantville, GA 30220 770-253-0383

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.1400 W. Marietta St.Atlanta, GA 30318404-355-3108www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Top South 830 Pickens Industrial Dr.Marietta, GA 30062770-422-4009www.topsouth.com

Fabricator Directory


HAWAII AMR llcPO Box 1542Aiea, HI 96701808-652-0609

BKA Builders Inc. dba Paradise Hawaii CountertopsPO Box 241019Honolulu, HI 96824808-848-2600www.bkabuilders.com

Gary’s Woodworking60 Kaunaloa St.Hilo, HI 96720808-936-4259

Handy Man ServicesPO Box 89404Honolulu, HI 96830808-741-2349

Hawaii Kitchen & Bath Inc.PO Box 1857Kailua, HI 96734808-261-0357www.hawaiikitchenandbath.com

Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc.1602-B Auiki St.Honolulu, HI 96819808-845-3775

Jaco Builders Inc.99-129B Waiua Wy. Aiea, HI 96701808-486-6008

Pohaku Fabrication1757 Haleukana St.Lihue, HI 96766808-246-9480

Solid Surface Technologies360 Mokauea St.Honolulu, HI 96819808-845-8677www.ssthawaii.net

Superior Solid Surface1620 Hau St.Honolulu, HI 96817808-842-5556www.hidanoconstruction.com

IDAHOBledsoe Cabinets2990 Wise Wy.Boise, ID 83716208-433-0033www.thebledsoegroup.net

Candela Construction4126 Couples Dr.Coeur d’ Alene, ID 83815208-661-1398

ILLINOIS Counter Creations LLCPO Box 314Marengo, IL 60152815-568-1073www.countercreations.net

Custom Marble Inc.PO Box 306Millstadt, IL 62260618-476-1345www.custommarble.net

Dirk Foster802 S. 26th St.Mt. Vernon, IL 62864206-898-8163

F-W-S Solid Surface Specialist Inc.610 N. Illinois Ave.Carbondale, IL 62901618-457-2326www.f-w-s.netMaxwell Counters, Inc.PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848

New Age Surfaces1237 Naperville Dr.Romeoville, IL 60446630, 226-0011

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.2430 N. Court St.Rockford, IL 61103815-968-9651www.piercelaminated.com

Precision Stone Design981 Lunt Ave.Schaumburg, IL 60193www.precisionstonedesigns.com847-301-7171

Solid Surface Creations Inc.403 S. SycamoreVilla Grove, IL 61956217-832-8207www.ssctops.com

Stevens Industries Inc.704 W. Main St.Teutopolis, IL 62427217-540-3100www.stevensinc.com

The Cabinet Shoppe19420 Frank Ct.Woodstock, IL 60098815-482-0160

INDIANAA. I. A. Countertops LLC 501 W. Railroad Ave.Syracuse, IN 46567574-457-2018www.aiacountertops.com

Bollock Industries Inc.900 Farabee Ct.Lafayette, IN 47905765-448-6000www.bollockstoptops.com

Hard Surface Fabrications, Inc. / Kormax810 S. Beiger St.Mishawaka, IN 46544574-259-4843www.hardsurfacekormax.com

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401812-824-6299www.rakesolutions.com

M & W Countertops Inc.11934 Witmer Rd.Grabill, IN 46741260-627-3636www.mwcountertops.com

Michiana Laminated Products Inc. 7130 N. 050 E.Howe, IN 46746260-562-2871www.michianalaminated.com

Stone Tops2772 Simpson Circle426 Forestwood Dr. Valparaiso, IN 46385 219-669-7037

IOWACustom Countertops & More1801 E. Oak St.Algona, IA 50511515-295-4835

Solid Fabrications Inc. 2515 Murray St.Sioux City, IA 51111712-255-5319www.solidfab.com

KANSASCountertop Shoppe5855 S.W. 21st St.Topeka, KS 66604785-271-8675www.mycountertopshoppe.com

Fisher Lumber Co., Inc.P.O. Box 355Garden Plain, KS 67050316-531-2295

Kitchens Inc. 2301 W. FrontviewDodge City, KS 67801620-225-0208

Mid-America Kitchens & Baths1105 N. IndustrialMarion, KS 66861www.midamericamarble products.com/620-382-3390

Parman Brothers LTD PO Box 7Johnson, KS 67855620-492-6882 www.parmanbrothersltd.com

Top Master Inc.2844 Roe Ln.Kansas City, KS 66103913-492-3030www.top-master.com

KENTUCKY Cardinal Kitchens Inc.230 Hiawatha Ave.Louisville, KY 40209502-363-3871www.cardkitchen.com

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.1272 Hwy. 490East Bernstadt, KY 40729606-843-6891www.surfaces-unlimited.com

LOUISIANA Dan Solid Surfaces2020 Dallas Dr.Baton Rouge, LA 70806225-216-3900www.dansolidsurface.com

Top Distributors LLC412 Post Oak Rd. Sulphur, LA 70663 337-625-5751

MAINE Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.11 Collins Pond Rd.Windham, ME 04062207-893-3445www.getshad.com

MARYLANDSolidTops LLC505 South St.Easton, MD 21601410-819-0770www.solidtops.com

MASSACHUSETTS Black Beauty Granite & Marble Inc. 74 Devon Rd.Norwood, MA 02062781-762-5885

Gulfstream Aerospace Services Corp.33 Elise St. Westfield, MA 01085


Jack’s CustomWoodworking/JCW Countertop 3 Aberjona Dr.Woburn, MA 01801781-935-1907www.jcwcountertops.com

PADCO Countertop Co.5 Springdale Ave.Canton, MA 02021781-828-1177www.padcocountertop.com

Sterling Surfaces76 Leominster Rd.Sterling, MA 01564978-422-3321www.sterlingsurfaces.com

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.1079 N. Montello St.Brockton, MA 02301508-894-6999www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com

TWD Surfaces75 Hale St.Bridgewater, MA 02324508-279-2650www.twdsurfaces.com

MICHIGANBlasius Inc.7343 Buell Rd.Vassar, MI 48768989-871-5000www.blasiusinc.com

JC Tops Inc.3156 Parker Dr.Royal Oak, MI 48073248-733-8677www.jctopsinc.com

Marbelite Corp.22500 Heslip Dr.Novi, MI 48375248-348-1900www.marbelitecorp.com

Paxton CountertopsPO Box 174Grand Ledge, MI 48837517-719-0146

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.6689 Sterling Dr. S.Sterling Heights, MI 48312586-274-9668

MINNESOTA Innovative Surfaces Inc.515 Spiral Blvd.Hastings, MN 55033651-437-1004

The Pinske Edge119 Main St.Plato, MN 55370320-238-2196www.pinske-edge.com

The Top Shop of Rochester Inc.235 Woodlake Dr. S.E.Rochester, MN 55904507-282-9129www.topshoprochester.com

MISSISSIPPI Countertop Creations of the Gulf Coast1302 Live OakPascagoula, MS 39567228-938-6484

MISSOURI Genistone137 E. State Hwy. CCNixa, MO 65714417-725-0909www.genistone.com

MONTANA Bevco1627 Dickie Rd.Billings, MT 59101406-248-2670

BMC3200 Hwy. 12 E.P.O. Box 5780Helena, MT 59404www.buildwithbmc.com

Jim ShreveP.O. Box 721 Florence, MT 59833 406-880-3566

The Flooring Place 1891 Boothill Ct.Bozeman, MT 59715406-587-2320

Pyramid Cabinet Shop1201 Fourth Ave. N.Billings, MT 59101406-671-8329www,pyramid-cabinet.com

VanSetten Walker Construction Co. 821 1st Ave. N.W.Great Falls, MT 59404406-570-5283

WoodCo LLC PO Box 30254Billings, MT 59107406-259-5177 www.woodcollc.com

NEBRASKA Best Quality Countertops4340 S. 90th St.Omaha, NE 68127402-670-6338www.bestqualitycountertops.com

Builders Warehouse4600 N. Second Ave.Kearney, NE 68845308-627-6702

Lincoln Laminating Inc. 5010 Rentworth Dr.Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009

Martin’s Counter Tops Inc.9101 Military Rd.Omaha, NE 68134402-572-4044www.martinscountertops.com

NEVADAB&H Interiors4385 Wagon TrailLas Vegas, NV 89118702-400-6547

Carpenters Int’l Training Fund 6801 Placid St.Las Vegas, NV 89119702-938-1111

Creative Surface Solutions2855 Coleman St.N. Las Vegas, NV 89032702-365-6444www.creativesurface.com

K-C Maintenance4710 W. Post Rd. #145Las Vegas, NV 89118702-228-5552

NEW HAMPSHIRE Maui Solid Surface182 E. Dunstable Rd.Nashua, NH 03062603-718-0014

NEW JERSEY Innovative Concrete Solutions 28 Olympia Ln.Sicklerville, NJ 08081215-983-9792

J. Dougherty & Son/ JDS Supply 337 N. Main St.Glassboro, NJ 08028856-881-5444www.JDSsupply.com

J&M Lifestyles215 Rte. 10 Building 3Randolph, NJ 07869973-668-5057www.jmlifestyles.com

Marvic Corp.2450 Lorio St.Union, NJ 07083908-686-4340www.countertopsofnj.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc.1136 Industrial Pkwy.Brick, NJ 08724732-840-4433www.spauldingfabricators.com

NEW MEXICOAmerican Countertops8013 Edith N.E.Albuquerque, NM 87113505-897-3141

Elvis Custom Building812 S. 4thArtesia, NM 88210575-308-7850

OGB Architectural Millwork3711 Paseo del NorteAlbuquerque, NM 87113505-998-0000www.ogb-am.com

Rojo Enterprises LLCPO Box 429Roswell, NM 88202505-626-3553

NEW YORKCabinet & Countertop Designs188-10 McLaughlin Ave.Hollis, NY 11423718-217-4292www.corianworld.com

Dimensional Stone & Tile Designs, Inc146 E. Third St.Mount Vernon, NY 10550www.dimensionalstone.net914-664-1200

Evans & Paul LLC140 DuPont St.Plainview, NY 11803516-576-0800www.evansandpaul.com

Marker Systems Inc.940 River Rd.North Tonawanda, NY 14120716-695-1102

Modern Home DistributingPO Box 395Nunda, NY 14517585-468-2523

Penn Fabricators Inc.100 Bellport Ave.Yaphank, NY 11980631-205-0282www.penn4corian.com

Unico Special Products Inc.25 Renwick St.Newburgh, NY 12550845-562-9255www.unicospecialproducts.com

Wilbedone Inc.1133 NYS Rte. 222Cortland, NY 13045800-734-8813www.wilbedone.com

NORTH CAROLINA Carolina Custom Surfaces100 Landmark Dr.Greensboro, NC 27409336-299-3030www.carolinacustomsurfaces.com

Fabricator Directory (continued)Companies in blue are Certified ISFA Professionals


Johnson Granite Inc.PO Box 511589 Hiatt Rd.Mount Airy, NC 27030336-719-2729

Marble Unlimited & Cabinets Inc.2210 E. Pettigrew St.Durham, NC 27519919-596-2325

Meld USA Inc.3001-103 Spring Forest Rd.Raleigh, NC 27616919-790-1749www.meldusa.com

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.2080 E. Fifth St.Winston-Salem, NC 27101336-773-0714www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Windbound Co.PO Box 817Glen Alpine, NC 28628828-438-0892www.windboundsurfaces.com

OHIOBertke Countertops9355 Amsterdam Rd.Anna, OH 45302937-538-7024

Cabinets 2 Countertops7142 Frank Ave. N.W.N. Canton, OH 44720330-244-0221www.cabinets2countertops.com

Countertop Shop LTD10406 Geiser Rd.Holland, OH 43528419-868-9101www.countertopshop.net

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.1300 Flagship Dr.Perrysburg, OH 43551419-873-9500www.cectops.com

Helmart Co., Inc.4960 Hillside Ave.Cincinnati, OH 45233www.helmart.net513-941-3095

Heritage Marble Inc.7086 Huntley Rd.Columbus, OH 43229614-436-7465

Innovative Builders6909 Engle Rd. Ste. 19Middleburg Hts., OH 44130800-936-4799Korkan Granite4561 Crystal Pwy.Kent, OH 44240330-677-1883www.korkangranite.com

L. E. Smith Co.1030 E. Wilson St.Bryan, OH 43506888-537-6484www.lesmith.comLaminate Shop, Inc.PO Box 1218Marietta, OH 45750740-749-3536Mark Dietz 7513 Bartholomew Dr.Middleburg Heights, OH 44130440-476-9905Solid Surfaces Plus4640 Manufacturing Rd.Cleveland, OH 44135216-267-7040www.solidsurfacesplus.comTop Shelf Laminated Products400 Dietz Rd.Warren, OH 44483330-393-1289 Tower IndustriesPO Box 647Massillon, OH 44648330-837-2216www.towersurfaces.com

OKLAHOMA Hoffman Fixtures Co.6031 S. 129th St., Ste. BTulsa, OK 74134918-252-0451www.hfccountertops.com

OREGON Countertops by Topsecret6076 Washburn Wy.Klamath Falls, OR 97603541-850-8677

Douglas High School1381 Douglas Blvd.Winston, OR 97496541-643-9344

Grifform Innovations Inc.PO Box 258Glide, OR 97443541-496-0313www.grifform.com

South Umpqa School District501 N.W. Chadwick Ln.Myrtle Creek, OR 97457541-580-3750

PENNSYLVANIA A.S.S.T.805 West Elm Ave.Hanover, PA 17331717-630-1251www.asst.com

Advanced Surfaces Inc.130 Plastics Rd.Corry, PA 16407814-663-0369

Blume’s Solid Surface Products904 Freeport Rd.Freeport, PA 16229724-294-3190www.blumes.net

Chuck Sawyer4802 Au Sable Dr.Gibsonia, PA 15044412-213-0370

J.A. Kohlhepp Sons Inc.PO Box 423640 DuBois St. Dubois, PA 15801814-371-5060

Jon Hirt258 Nichols St.Leesport, PA 19533484-794-8263

John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.PO Box 41Bernville, PA 19506610-488-6213www.kramershowerbases.com

Pence Countertops Inc.124 Ellis Woods Rd.Pottstown, PA 19465610-326-6609www.pencecountertops.com

RHODE ISLAND New England Counter TopPO Box FPawtucket, RI 2861508-761-7588

SOUTH CAROLINACreative Counter Tops1056 Hunley Sullivan Rd.Awendaw, SC 29429843-881-8315

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.1900 Suber Mill Rd.Greer, SC 29650864-879-9378www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

SOUTH DAKOTA Dakotaland Woodwork & Cabinets LLC 41181 179th St.Raymond, SD 57258605-532-4150

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co.45753 237th St.Madison, SD 57042605-256-3707www.soliddfc.com

Formatop Co.101 S. FranklinSioux Falls, SD 57103605-332-3151www.formatopcompany.com

TENNESSEE Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.1446 S. Cooper St., Ste. 101Memphis, TN 38114901-278-9626www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.300 Peabody St.Nashville, TN 37210615-915-0718www.creativecountersolutions.com

TEXASClassic Counter Tops2325 Executive Dr.Garland, TX 75041972-840-1234www.classiccountertopsinc.com

Counterscapes, Inc.2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676

Countertop Solutions LLCPO Box 820847Houston, TX 77077713-204-0080www.ineedcountertops.com

R.L. Stephens Inc.8916 Pepper Rock Dr.Austin, TX 78717512-801-7105

Southwestern Counter Tops & Millwork4100 Frankfort Ave.El Paso, TX [email protected]

University of North Texas1155 Union CircleDenton, TX 76203940-891-6853

Walter Crum ConstructionPO Box 12359Lubbock, TX 79452806-748-1899

W R Watson Inc. 12902 Mula Ln.Stafford, TX 77477281-495-2800

UTAHBedrock Quartz5996 Dannon WayWest Jordan, UT 84081801-282-3322www.bedrockquartz.com

Eldon Greenhalgh424 N. 600 E.Lindon, UT 84042801-785-9217


Quality Craft Wood WorksHC 60 Box 703Rocky Ridge, UT 84645435-623-1707

SLC Corp248 E. 600 S.Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Tuscan Stoneworx (Envision Concrete Countertops)165 N. 1330 W., Ste. C-4Orem, UT 84057801-734-6904www.envisionconcrete countertops.com

Ty’s CabinetsPO Box 295Cleveland, UT 84518435-749-2467

VIRGINIA Boeing Service Co.14675 Lee Rd.Chantilly, VA 20151703-808-2717

Five Star Fab & FixturePO Box 1726Salem, VA 24153540-444-0456www.fivestarfab.com

Metro Stone Works LLC9115 Digital Dr., Unit 12Manassas Park, VA 20111703-396-866www.metrostoneworks.com

Surface Link Corp.4200 Lafayette Center Dr., Ste. AChantilly, VA 20151301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com

The Wood Palace4825 W. Norfolk Rd.Portsmouth, VA 23703757-647-8130

TRINDCO1004 Obici Industrial Blvd.Suffolk, VA 23434757-539-0262www.trindco.com

WASHINGTONAbsolute ConcreteWorks5795 N.E. Minder Rd.Poulsbo, WA 98370360-297-5055

Borey & Sons Construction Inc.445 Hanson LoopBurbank, WA 99323509-430-0634

Fine Line Pacific Inc.22445 76th Ave. S.Kent, WA 98032425-251-6177www.finelinepacific.com

RD Wing11809 N.E. 116th St.Kirkland, WA 98034425-821-7222www.blimages.com

Sheridan Woodworking LLC2175 Frog Hollow Rd.Walla Walla, WA 99362509-540-7799

Synsor Corp.1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy. Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604

Tommy T Cook8202 St. Hwy. 104, Ste. 102PMB 135Kingston, WA 98346206-349-6403www.tommytcook.com

WEST VIRGINIA Alternative Building Concepts, Inc.4341 Rt. 60 E., Ste. 187Huntington, WV 25705304-736-0494

Morris Craft LLC2700 Smith Rd.Charleston, WV 25314303-346-4116

WISCONSIN Bisley Fabrication Inc.700 Industrial St.Gresham, WI 54128715-787-4410www.bisfab.com

McDermott Top Shop LLC200 A Main St.Sullivan, WI 53178262-593-2456

Spectrum Surfaces Inc.812 Marquis WayGreen Bay, WI 54304920-337-6575

WYOMING Heritage Woods Inc.1806 Pacific Ave., Ste. 4Cheyenne, WY 82007307-640-2445

J Booth SpecialtiesPO Box 1152Casper, WY 82602307-258-2992

BERMUDA Fabrications10 Rosshire Ord Rd.Warwick, WK08Bermuda 441-332-0042

Kitchen Installations Ltd. PO Box HM1876Hamilton, HMHXBermuda441-292-1556

CANADAAbet Laminati50 Paxman Rd., Unit 10-11 Toronto, ON M9C 1B7 Canada 416-620-6556

Bluemar Marble & Granite8201 Jane St., Unit 2Concord, ON L4K 5P2Canada905-761-7666

Colonial Countertops Ltd.609 Alpha St.Victoria, BC V8Z 1B2Canada250-383-1926http://colonialcountertops.com

Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc. PO Box 40 99 Harrison St. Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0Canada519-461-0100

Executive Millwork#5 1212 38 Ave N.E.Calgary, AB T2E 6N2Canada403-291-0400

FloForm Countertops125 Hamelin St.Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada204-474-2334www.floform.com

KTC Construction101-3905 Quadra St.Victoria, BC V8X 1J1Canada250-885-1524

Paragon Surfacing Ltd.6720 Graybar Rd., Unit 110Richmond, BC V6W 1J1 Canada604-278-2225www.paragonsurfacing.com

SSC Countertops Ltd.1253 W. 76 Ave.Vancouver, BC V6P 6M3Canada604-294-4071www.ssccountertops.com

FRANCECREA DiffusionZA Le Cheval BlancSolgne F-57420France38-764-6923www.crea-diffusion.com

GERMANYRosskopf & Partner AGBahnhofstrasse 16D 09573 Augustusburg – Hennersdorf

Germanywww.rosskopf-partner.com493-729-12524

LEBANONRespond S.A.L.1st Floor Missirian Bldg. Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414

MEXICOVictor Coronado ServicesBoulevard Hacienda Galindo 116Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230Mexico 52-4422342743

NIGERIA Trioteknix Limited- Member NITP19 Sule Abuka Crescent off Opebi Rd. Ikeja, Lagos 10011Nigeria234-7039707383

SAINT MARTINVenio Woodwork N.VGuana Bay Rd., #1PhilipsburgSaint Martin599-580-6348

SINGAPOREGlobal-Allied Pte Ltd.No. 18C Kranji LoopSingapore 739554Singapore65-63658781www.global-group.com.sg

SOUTH AFRICATechno SurfacesUnit 2, 18 Losack Ave. Epping 2 Cape Town, Western Province 7806South Africa27-215340154 www.technosurfaces.co.za

THAILANDTiffany Decor Co., Ltd.6/2 m. 8 Klonghartawanook 29 Rd.Klonghar, KlongruangPatumtanee 12120 Thailand66298-6446

UNITED KIINGDOMInterfab LTDUnit 9 Willersey Business ParkWillersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RRUnited Kingdom441-386-858100www.interfab.co.uk

Fabricator Directory (continued)Companies in blue are Certified ISFA Professionals


Caesarstone USA Launches New Line

Caesarstone USA Inc. launched a new line of surfaces called Supremo. Mirroring nature’s diversity, each of the Supremo premium surfaces has its own spectacular flow of color and pattern. This patented new technology is unique only to Caesarstone. With its natural look and feel, no two Supremo surfaces are alike. It is available in eight colors with names inspired by aristocracy and fantasy worlds, from Swan Lake, a shimmering cream pattern, to Queen of Sheba, a black surface with rich texture and subtle veining. Translucent Supremo surfaces can also be backlit creating a soft luxurious ambiance. Like all Caesarstone products, it is nonporous, stain-, scratch-, and heat-resistant and GREENGUARD certified. Circle RS#15 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Karran Offers New Quartz Sink LineKarran now offers the new Q2 line of quartz sinks. Designed to be tough, they are available in a wide array of colors. The new line, which will complement the company’s original line of Q1 quartz sinks, are made from the same materials using the

same production processes, but are made in a different manufacturing facility. The Q2 line comes in three models: a split-bowl top-mount model; a split-bowl undermount model; and a single-bowl undermount model. They are currently available in black or brown. Circle RS#16 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

SATA Introduces Lightweight Pressure-fed Gun

SATA introduced the SATAminijet 1000 K, a new, particularly lightweight pressure-fed gun designed for the coating of small and complex parts. The gun can be connected via double diaphragm pumps, pressure pots or plural component supply systems for greatest versatility. Because of its compact and ergonomic design and its low weight, the 1000 K reduces technician fatigue, even when being used on a long-term basis in industrial applications. This ergonomic design is suitable

for the woodworking industry as it allows the operator to use the spray gun inside cabinets and other hard-to-reach areas, small and large. Available in the nozzle sizes 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.2., it is also suitable for decorative and design applications that require precise detail of the coated part. Another area of use can

be found in the plastic and metal working industry where release agents and lubricants need to be applied on die-casting or forging moulds. The SATAminijet 1000 K is available in HVLP

(high volume low pressure) and optimized RP high pressure technology (Reduced Pressure = reduced atomization pressure) which combines fast application speed with high transfer rates. It is also offered in an RPS suction cup version “H” with 1.4 nozzle size for smaller surfaces. Circle RS#17 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Wilsonart Launches New Laminate Collection

Wilsonart International launched urban-inspired patterns, including abstracts, solids, wood grains, stones and new pure metals as part of its 2012 Contract Collection of laminates. The collection also includes a new “Soft Grain” finish that provides an abstracted matte wood tick to a variety of existing and new designs. The new collection includes nine colors in the Woodgrains Series available in the new Soft Grain, Linearity and Textured Gloss finishes: Cafelle, Skyline Walnut, Walnut Heights, 5th Ave. Elm, Park Elm, Loft Oak, Warehouse Oak, High Line and Uptown Walnut. It also includes 17 colors in the Abstracts and Solid Colors Series available in the new Glaze, Matte, Fine Velvet and Linearity finishes: Coffee Bean, Salentina Argento, Cream Fizz, Aqua Fizz, Berry Fizz, Midway, Pinball, Arcade, Vapor Strandz, Astro Strandz, Cosmic Strandz, Crisp Linen, Classic Linen, Casual Linen, Organic Cotton, Natural Cotton and Raw Cotton. Additionally, it includes 19 colors in the Stones Series available in the new Glaze textured finish: Carrara Santorini, African Slate, Bengal Slate, Silver Travertine, Golden Travertine, Roman Limestone, Tuscan Limestone, Corinthian Limestone, Bainbrook Grey, Salentina Nero, Salentina Grigio, Salentina Rosso, Perla Piazza, Aged Piazza, White Carrara, Calcutta Marble, Black Alicante, Venetian Ivory and Venetian Ale. There are also 16 designs available by special order with a two-week lead time: Regimental Red, Persian Blue, North Sea, Slate Grey, Designer

Product News


White, Fashion Grey, White Sand, Coffee Bean, Black (Linearity), Black (High Gloss), Amber Cherry, River Cherry, Colombian Walnut, Brazilwood, Zanzibar and Hampton Walnut. Lastly are three anodized aluminum additions in the Metro Collection Metals Series: Matte Pewter, Matte Grey Bronze and Matte Gunmetal Grey. Circle RS#18 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Cilio Technologies Launches New Mobile Features Cilio Technologies, LLC, a specialist in automated order distribution and management of installed sales for the building materials industry, has launched new and sophisticated mobile features for the Cilio Partners Portal, a Web-based platform for retail home improvement stores and manufacturers. The portal is an SaaS (software as a service) offering for home and building materials manufacturers and retailers that allows them to distribute and manage their orders for installed sales products (such as countertops, cabinets, windows, doors and flooring) across complex vendor networks. The new features for the Cilio Partners Portal allow viewing and searching projects and orders, adding field notes, approving project line items and releasing orders for payment — all from a mobile device. One big benefit is the capacity for manufacturers, installers, fabricators and retail partners to better communicate throughout the installed sales process leading to faster and smoother project completion and improved margins on product sales and installation. For example, an installer can now template, schedule and monitor installations and product deliveries while at the jobsite from a mobile device. Improved mobile features for the Cilio Partners Portal include: viewing orders and projects; searching orders and projects; viewing and adding order notes; releasing orders for payment; customizing the login page; and approving and denying project line items. Circle RS#19 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Polishing Pro Systems Offers New Backer PadPolishing Pro Systems, LLC now offers the new patent-pending Zero° Burn Backer Pad for polishing natural stone and engineered

stone. The new pad is designed to save time and money,

but even more importantly, it is

designed to make it virtually impossible

to burn the surface—or even the edges of quartz surfacing. This backer pad turns an ordinary grinder or polisher into a multidirectional polisher. It eliminates the need for resin pads that are intended to reduce heat during the polishing process. The multidirectional action of this backer means that the harder you push, the tighter the elliptical passes become. The tighter the elliptical passes become, the more that heat is dissipated out of the backer, not the stone. It is this reverse heat transference that makes burning virtually impossible. The pad saves time because the multidirectional action crosscuts the stone with each revolution of the machine, which speeds up the polishing process. It also results in a tighter polishing pattern, which results in a higher sheen. It is available in both rigid for surface and bullnose polishing, and flexible for ogee or other edge polishing. Circle RS#20 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Cambria Releases Two New DesignsCambria unveiled its next two designs, Bradshaw and Hollinsbrook. These designs join last month’s releases of Armitage and Laneshaw, expanding the Waterstone Collection to a total of 15 designs and making Cambria’s offering more than 100 designs. The Waterstone Collection is inspired by water’s natural movement over stone and captures the natural veining and beauty of marble and granite while offering the attributes of quartz surfacing. Hollinsbrook embodies a powerful union of black, chestnut, gray and white. Bradshaw’s whirling fusion of taupe, tan, black and shimmering copper elevates this captivating neutral to standout status. Cambria will continue to develop and announce at least four more designs throughout the year, two at a time. Circle RS#21 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Braxton-Bragg Offers New Seaming Tools

Braxton-Bragg is now offering the Seam Phantom, a tool designed to help fabricators create nearly invisible seams on countertops and other projects. Designed to fit onto angle grinder/polishers, Seam Phantom holds the polishing wheel at a precise angle. When used with the supplied guide rail, the in-and-out adjustment allows for precisely dressed edges that can result in a nearly invisible seam. It can also be used to correct out-of-square or rough saw cuts. Circle RS#22 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Woodworking Fair Offers New Attendee DiscountsThe International Woodworking Fair (IWF) announced several discount programs for the 2012 show. The fair features five symposiums on August 21 and an expanded educational session program which begins August 22. The Cabinetmakers Association will also be offering certification sessions for the first time at IWF. Among these conference savings, attendees can buy one symposium registration and receive one free regular education session. Also available is to buy one educational session with the second one discounted 50 percent per individual registration. Nearly 800 exhibitors have contracted for exhibit space occupying 365,000 net sq. ft. The fair will take place August 22 to 25, 2012, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. To register visit www.iwfatlanta.com. Circle RS#23 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Product News


Product NewsSureCrete Design Offers 10 Terrazzo Concrete Designs

SureCrete Design, a specialty concrete manufacturer, now offers a full line of 10 terrazzo concrete designs, utilizing the Xtreme Series Terrazzo Mix. This high early-strength cementitious casting product allows for a 150 percent load of recycled aggregates. Each terrazzo color design uses both post-consumer and post-industrial materials, delivering multiple LEED points. The company also trains fabricators to cast cement-based terrazzo

utilizing the reduction method, designed to reduce raw material costs by 20 to 25 percent. Circle RS#24 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

NU World Provides LED Light PanelsThe Nu World LED Light Panel is a thin planar light source that allows for the placement of light in spaces that are too small to accommodate traditional lighting products. The company supplies an easy-to-install plug and play system that does not require any electrical hookups. Virtually any shape or size up to 72 by 120 in. can be achieved, and voids for sinks and faucets can be cut in the field or supplied ready cut. Circle RS#25 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Gnomeadic Arts Releases GFRC Pump to Test MarketGnomeadic Arts Inc. has announced the limited edition release of the Gnomeinator GFRC 2000

Pump (G2). The pump will be released to a select test market at a significantly discounted rate, and company president, Tommy Cook, will work directly with the first five companies that purchase it. The first five units will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be shipped within six to eight weeks. The G2 will include a one-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects. It allows the user to spray up to 5 gal. of ¾-in. GFRC premix, or similar mix designs, onto vertical surfaces and onto 3-D forms for higher strengths and faster application. It is designed to save time and reduce labor costs, as well as allow the casting of vertical and 3-D objects. Circle RS#26 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

CoveringsETC Adds New ColorsCoveringsETC has added three new colors to its Eco-Cem collection. These new hues, Derby

Circle RS#08 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. Circle RS#09 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


Grey, Bexhill Beige and Devon Red, round out a total of 11 colors in the collection. Eco-Cem is a fiber cement product made from a proprietary mix of concrete with pre-consumer recycled fly ash and post-consumer recycled cellulose fiber; it is suitable for walls, flooring and countertops. Available in large format tiles and sheets, it offers minimalistic design and is lightweight, which allows for easy installation. Circle RS#27 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Guhdo Introduces Saw BladesGmaxx, Guhdo’s new line of saw blades, incorporates an electrostatically-applied coating, which is thinner, stronger and more uniform over the body of the blade. Blades are manufactured using a proprietary grinding process for precision-balanced blade bodies. The unique coating and grinding processes are designed to provide longer blade life and superior blade performance and are for use on table saws,

radial arm saws and chop/miter saws. The blades are available in a variety of specifications, from 7 1/4- to 14-in. diameters for numerous applications ranging from rip and crosscutting, and include blades designed for plywood, laminate, solid surface and steel. Circle RS#28 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

University of Ceramic Tile and Stone Releases New Online Stone Training CourseThe University of Ceramic Tile and Stone (UofCTS) announces it has developed a Canadian version of its popular online course, Understanding the Basics of Natural Stone, now available through Terrazzo, Tile and Marble Association of Canada (TTMAC). TTMAC collaborated with the UofCTS to convert the original Understanding the Basics of Natural

Stone course into a version that would be relevant to the Canadian market. It references the Canadian TTMAC manuals, specifications and industry standards, as well as relevant U.S. industry standards. The primary measuring units are metric, but it also includes U.S. measuring units. The course offers an up-to-date comprehensive look at the Canadian stone industry and includes industry standards and sales techniques. It is designed to give salespeople the tools they need in order to increase sales and stone installers and fabricators details about industry standards and information on how to assist clients with selecting natural stone. It also offers design professionals the knowledge of how to select and specify natural stone. The course has been accredited for Continued Education Credits by three major Canadian architectural and interior design organizations. Circle RS#28 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Product News

Circle RS#10 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. Circle RS#11 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Get Your Free Product Information Today: For more facts on products and services, please fill out all the information below and circle the product referral numbers that are found in the magazine. Product referral numbers can be found below each advertisement. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer. You can submit this form via mail, fax, email ([email protected]) or visit us online at www.ISFAnow.org/info.

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Volume 5 / Issue 2




What category best describes your business classification?q Fabricator q Manufacturer q Raw Materials Supplier q Woodworker/Cabinetmakerq Builder/Remodeler q Architect q Distributor/Manufacturer of Sheet Goods q Other (please specify) _______________________

Whichonecategorybestdescribesyourjobtitle/function?q Owner/Partner/Corporate Management and Related Personnel q Production/Plant Management and Related Personnel q Design (includes staff designer/architect and related personnel) q Purchasing/Specifier and Related Personnelq Marketing & Sales Management and Related Personnel q Other (please specify)

Information By Category If you want more information from several advertisers in a category, circle the category number that matches up with the category below.

About Your Business

C01 AbrasivesC02 Adhesives C03 Air Quality Equipment C04 CNC MachineryC05 Concrete Materials & Supplies C06 Hand/Power ToolsC07 LaminateC08 Material Handling EquipmentC09 Prefabricated Accessories C10 Quartz Surfacing C11 Saws

C12 Sealers/PolishesC13 Seaming EquipmentC14 Sinks C15 Software C16 Solid SurfaceC17 StoneC18 Templating EquipmentC19 Tooling C20 TrainingC21 Waterjet EquipmentC22 Other Materials

What surfacing materials do you work with?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Free Product Information Please circle below all of the referral numbers found in the magazine, or the category numbers found on this page that you would like more information on. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer.

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56

57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64

65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80


Ad IndexReferral Page Number Number

10 Axiom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 08 Beckart Environmental, Inc. . . . . 47 03 Chemcore Industries, Inc. . . . . . . 7 06 Eurosoft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 02 Groves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 04 ISFA Symposium . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 05 ISFA Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . 17 07 ISFA Fabrication Training . . . . . . 29 14 Integra Adhesives . . . . . . . . . . . 52 13 International Woodworking Fair . . . . . . . . . . . 51 01 Laser Products Industries . . . . . . 2 12 Made of Metal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 11 Performance Abrasives . . . . . . . 48 09 Sata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Classifieds


attention fabricatorsISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment taking up space in your shop that you would like to sell? Are you looking to fill a key position in your operations? Our readers might be interested. Why not submit a FREE classified ad?

That’s right, relevant classifieds in this publication are free to ISFA fabricator members! Just send us the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest. Email us today at [email protected].

To place a paid classified ad, for those of you who are not fabricator members, email [email protected] or call (815) 721-1507.

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ISFA Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, Vol. 5, Issue 2

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Transcript of ISFA Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, Vol. 5, Issue 2