ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 8, Issue 4 - Q4 2015

VOLUME 8 / ISSUE 4 • QUARTER 4, 2015 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

Five Problems and Five Steps to Assist in Succession Planning Page 14 Spotlight on Sinks Page 22 Applied Financial Theory for Sound Business Investments Page 36

A Tale of Two Factories: Comparing a Pair of OEM Sheet Good Facilities Page 40

Solid Surface with a Twist

Overcoming the complexities of compound angles in a staircase project Page 30

ISFA Member since 1997 Circle RS#01 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#02 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

CREDITS Letters to the Editor

Photography

Please send letters to editor@isfanow.org or to Letters, ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 attention: Editor. Include a telephone number and address (preferably an email address). Letters may be edited for clarity or space. Because of the high volume of mail we receive, we cannot respond to all letters. Send queries about Countertops & Architectural Surfaces to editor@isfanow. org or mail to ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 attention: Editor.

Photography/graphics provided by: ASST, Chuck Choi Architectural Photography, Payette and Leonard Elbon.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces welcomes Letters to the Editor.

If you have questions about the magazine, or would like to make a comment, or voice an opinion about the magazine, ISFA, or the industry in general, please feel free to write to us.

Photos in this publication may not depict proper safety procedures for creative purposes. ISFA and Countertops & Architectural Surfaces support the use of proper safety procedures in all cases and urge readers to take steps to institute such procedures.

Magazine Credits

Publisher & Editor: Kevin Cole Proofreader: Nancy Mueller-Truax Design: V2 Marketing Communications

Contacting ISFA

ISFA Officers of the Board

About This Magazine

ISFA Directors

Phone: (412) 487-3207 Fax: (412) 487-3269 editor@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in September. Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces are available at the nonmember “newsstand” price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces is also available by individual subscription at the following rates: ISFA nonmembers, one year (five issues) $30.00; ISFA members, one year free with every membership renewal.

Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States.

Call for details. To subscribe, call (412) 487-3207. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2015. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. For change of address, please include old label with new information, including both old and new zip codes. Allow 3-6 weeks for address change to take effect. Periodicals postage rate is paid at the Gibsonia, Pa., post office as well as others. Opinions expressed by writers in this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces or the International Surface Fabricators Association, but rather those of the individual writers.

Postmaster: Send address change to Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044.

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

Mell Hill, President Dave Paxton, Immediate Past President Adam Albee, Vice President Erica Hussey, Treasurer Ryan Miller, Secretary

Mike Woods, Director Kate Dillenburg, Director John Hansen, Associate Member Representative Jessica McNaughton, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Staff

Mike Langenderfer, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Communications Director and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Carol Wilhite, Operations Manager Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative Dave Lillegaard, Account Representative Amy Kyriazis, Membership Coordinator

Cover Photo

This photo (taken by Chuck Choi Architectural Photography) of the solid surface staircase in the atrium of 75 and 125 Binney St., Boston, depicts an amazingly complex project designed by Payette architectural firm in conjunction with fabricator ASST. Read the full story on Page 30.

Circle RS#03 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

CONTENTS

Features 22 Sink Spotlight

A look at the latest and greatest sink offerings

30 A Project with a Twist Fabricator conquers complex commercial construction of

KRION® solid surface stairway

36 Investment & Financial Modeling — A Leadership Mind-set…

How to simplify advanced modeling so it can be applied

22

in the shop setting

40 A Tale of Two Factories

How different plants across the globe worked together to meet demand

Departments 8 From the Editor 10 From the President

30

12 Calendar of Events 14 Education Connection 16 Industry News 44 ISFA News

A Tale of

Two F actories

How Different Plants across the Globe Worked Together to Meet Demand

48 ISFA Fabricator Directory 52 Product News

36

40

By Leonard Elbon

32 6 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

34

57 Reader Service Form 58 Classifieds/Ad Index

Circle RS#04 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 1998

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

In General, Avoid Generalities, Oversimplification and Platitudes While I’m not the biggest Facebookie, I recently

may cover any extra costs and leave money

Lastly (and you may have heard this from

posted by a friend and reading the comments

calculation must be made in advance of the

particular theory), I would urge diversification in

got into a bit of a debate after watching a video others had made. While I don’t want to rehash

the discussion here, the basic discussion I took part in was whether people should think in

more or less general terms about the particular subject of the post.

Regardless of the specific subject matter, over the next couple of days the idea stuck with

me and I began to think about how it might

apply to our industry. It made me think of one of the presentations that was put on at the

recent ISFA Annual Meeting & Conference.

Ed Hill spoke about shop bottlenecks, or

points in the production process that slow

left over for profit. But careful examination and decision to increase the number of jobs a given shop takes on.

In this very issue of this magazine, in an article

me before, as I am a strong advocate of this

most cases. Diversification in the products and services you offer, as well as diversification on how you get to market.

on Page 36, Max Le Pera discusses a variety

You may be one of the few companies that is

potential ROI for additional capital or staff

business that you don’t have to worry about

simplify the process, none of the models are

chances are, that’s not the case. So, if you put

understand (hence his efforts to simplify them).

materials or the market side, you are taking a

of models that exist just for calculating the

so good at a particular, complex aspect of your

expenditures. And while the article seeks to

competition or a decrease in customers, but

what most of us would probably call easy to

all of your eggs in one basket, either on the

Another generality that seems to me to often

be misleading is to focus on what you do best.

gamble. For instance, if a material goes out

of favor, perhaps because of a recession and price constraints, you have are more likely to

down productivity, how to identify them and

I won’t argue that some companies really thrive

found. However, during the discussion, it was

of a company just like this in our cover article

fix the item that most prevents productivity

largely on commercial solid surface projects of

bottleneck. While this is certainly no excuse

the company does best has served it well.

is limiting production, it is a prime example of

of his shop is for more common straight line

norms have the status as such for good reason,

your problems.

to become an OEM of sorts for some very

leaders in business, it is your job to contemplate

diversification. While there is certainly wisdom

what works in your particular case. And don’t be

have alternatives that your competition may not.

what to do once the bottleneck had been

using this philosophy. There is a good example

brought up that as soon as you identify and

(see Page 30), in which the fabricator focuses

gains, something else then becomes the new

a highly complex nature. This focus on what

not to hunt down the stage in the process that

However, the author readily admits that part

Some common ideas, platitudes and business

how there is no one simple cure-all to fix all of

work, and the company has used its talents

but there are always exceptions to the rules. As

unique products, thereby including some

the options and figure out for your own company

and validity to this, a great suggestion might

surprised if some generalities just don’t apply to

also be to focus on what you do worst.

your operations.

will have it made, I think that is a platitude

That is not to say that any business wants to

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

have witnessed, growth does not necessarily

your business to improve, and you know there

if a company increases its sales by X number

poorly in, then that would be a great area to

the task it must either hire additional staff,

into a strength. Also, expanding a company’s

from sales increase might actually lower the

offering distinctive edge treatments, coved

equipment is paid. Of course, the opposite

textures, etc. This means more money per job,

As you probably know, running a business is complex and there are a lot of working parts and moving targets. So for those who think

they just need to grow their business and they that should probably be retired. From what I

put out subpar products, but rather if you want

mean an increase in profitability. For example,

is a particular area you and/or your team does

of countertops per week, but to accomplish

focus training and extra work to turn a flaw

buy additional equipment or both, the gain

skill set gives it an opportunity to upsell by

profit once the overhead for the extra staff or

backsplashes, unique inlays, different surface

may also be true, and the additional income

and hopefully a deeper margin.

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

Likewise, when the building industry collapsed in the not-too-distant past, those companies that

had pigeon-holed 90 percent of their business in that previously booming market suddenly were

in trouble. And sadly, many aren’t around today.

Sincerely,

Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#05 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2000

From the President From the desk of Mell Hill, President of ISFA Board

Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow …

WOW! I would like to, first, thank our members for allowing me to serve as your president for the past year. It is an experience that I not only enjoyed but learned from as well. Through the year I have talked about ISFA, participating in the organization and making changes. As I wrote each one of my letters for this magazine, I tried to step back and look at ISFA’s path. I would say this has not only been a year of change, but one of great changes.

We have a new executive director with firsthand

provide a little consistency, as the 2015 board

on the board, he has shown great leadership skills

board of director’s desires to reconnect and show

addition of one fabricator member, Kelly Montana

of our longest standing members. It is refreshing

knowledge of the industry and understands the

value. And I, for one, believe Mike Langenderfer

will do amazing things for the organization in the

coming year. We also brought on Carol Wilhite as an operations manager and recently added an office assistant as well.

will remain intact for the upcoming term, with the

of Humboldt Countertops, based in Eureka, Calif.

I am a firm believer that you are only as strong

as the team you have working with you, and I am confident this team will continue to push ISFA to greatness again.

We hosted a destination annual meeting in

I would like to thank all of our board members

attendees. It was a great start to reconnecting the

Since my time on the board, we have had to

Austin, Texas, recently and had approximately 70 organization with its members and our members

with each other. The conversations I participated in while there were priceless, to say the least.

We are also working on big plans for the annual meeting next year.

From the outside change can be alarming, but

from the inside ISFA is strategically aligning itself

to better serve you. You will see the effects of our hard work as we progress into the next year, and

for their hard work and participation this year.

evaluate, reevaluate and make some hard choices on how to keep us moving forward, and each

board member played a supporting role in those conversations and decisions.

or provide feedback on recent events.

The board of directors is excited to have been

able to retain its talent for the coming year and

professionals melding with the past generations

and caring for it so deeply. Adam speaks to that more than most as he not only cares about the founding generation, but he wants to continue

to grow the new generation and bridge the gap

between the two. He has the drive and tenacity the industry was built upon so long ago. In

the past year Adam and I have worked closely

together to navigate through the needed changes

and to try to instill in our growing staff the meaning and value of ISFA. Adam has been a great

partner and I couldn’t have asked for a better vice president with which to serve. With all that I have

for the friends in the industry I have made and

step up and continue to make the organization

continuously grateful for the experience and

seen in him to date, there is no doubt that he will

will continue to reach out to for advice. I know

better for our members during his term.

that I will look back on this as an experience

engage with this association; after all, we are here grandest of ways — connections!! need to improve, explain what your struggles are,

to continue to see my generation of industry

As I close out my term as president, I am

as always, I encourage you to stay engaged or re- undervalued by most, but rewarding in the for you. Drop us a line and let us know what you

and a passion for the industry that rivals some

Thanks again for allowing me to serve you, and I

hope to continue to see more of you at our events in the coming years.

I will be passing the leadership torch to Adam

Albee of Lincoln Laminating, based in Lincoln,

Neb. Adam has been in the countertop industry for more than 10 years and has served on the

board of directors since 2013. During his tenure

Mell Hill, 2015 ISFA President mhill@duracite.com

It’s more than just learning how to be more profitable, saving money on the bottom line and getting great referrals and discounts.

Call ISFA today and find out how to make your world a better place.

(412) 487-3207 www.ISFAnow.org Circle RS#06 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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

Circle RS#07 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Calendar of Events Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) Jan. 19 – 21 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 267-4662

ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar April 7 – 8 St. Louis, Mo. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

NAHB Int’l Builders Show (IBS) Jan. 19 – 21 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 967-8619 The Int’l Surface Event/StonExpo West Jan. 19 – 21 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 967-8619 Vitoria Stone Fair 2016 Feb. 16 – 19 Espirito Santo, Brazil 55-27-343-40600 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone March 1 – 4 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

Coverings 2016 April 18 – 21 Chicago, Ill. (866) 285-3691 www.coverings.com ISFA Transition: Generation 2 Workshop April 28 – 29 Toledo, Ohio (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 17 – 20 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

16th Xiamen Stone Fair March 6 – 9 Xiamen, China (86) 592-595-9616

ISFA/IWF Countertop Symposium Aug. 23 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333 www.iwfatlanta.com

ISFA Senior Management Conference March 10 – 11 Nashville, Tenn.

(412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

IWF 2016 Aug. 24 – 27 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333 www.iwfatlanta.com

Movelsul Furniture Show Brasil 2016 March 14 – 18 Bento Goncalves, Brazil (54) 2102-6800

2016 Surface & Panel Symposium Sept. 12 – 13 Denver, Colo.

(920) 261-1945

ISFA Senior Management Conference Sept. 14 – 15 New York, N.Y. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Concrete Décor Show Sept. 25 – 29 San Diego, Calif.

(877) 935-8906

ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 27 – 30 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar Oct. 6 – 7 Southern California (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Greenbuild 2016 Oct. 7 – 9 Los Angeles, Calif.

(866) 815-9824

ISFA 2016 Annual Meeting & Conference Nov. 8 - 11 Cancun, Mexico (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Dec. 6 – 9 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org.

Circle RS#08 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2014 12 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Circle RS#09 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2015

OR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR

Education Connection 5 STEPS for a Workable The importance of the family business to the U.S.

economy continues to grow, and they are beginning to reverse the trend of mega-businesses wiping

mom and pop stores off the map. Family businesses now account for about half of the U.S. GDP. Family-owned or family-run companies are

responsible for 60 percent of the jobs in America and nearly 80 percent of new jobs created.

However, research indicates around only 52

percent of these family businesses expect the next

generation can handle the businesses on their own.

Family Business Succession Plan

By Michael Evans

Step 1: Establish Goals & Objectives ■■ Review any current succession plan and

reasonableness of achieving desired goals.

■■ Develop a collective vision, goals and

Growth and Sustainability

objectives for the business.

Family businesses often have complex histories

■■ Determine the importance of continued family

are often less traditional. For these and other

company, but consider the option to bring in

continuation of the business.

■■ Establish personal retirement goals and cash

and cultures, and families in today's world

involvement in leadership and ownership of the

reasons, some issues may hinder the successful

professional management.

Five key issues include:

flow needs of retiring family owners.

1. Generational transition: Only a third of all

management, both personal and business.

family businesses successfully make the transition to the second generation.

■■ Identify goals of next-generation

■■ Identify and retain professional advisers.

2. Alignment of family interests: Alignment

Step 2: Establish a Decision-making Process

becomes more pronounced as members retire and

involving family members in decision making.

of interests between current owners and others

turn over the reins to the new generation, while still looking to the company for retirement income.

3. Interfamily disputes: While the interest

of family members may not be aligned, these

situations can become even more difficult where

there is, for example, a divorce of a family owner

Identify and establish governance processes for

■■ Establish a method for dispute resolution.

■■ Document the succession plan in writing.

■■ Communicate the plan to family/stakeholders.

Step 3: Establish the Succession Plan

or a death and the surviving spouse is holding at

■■ Identify successors — both managers of the

business.

■■ Identify active and nonactive roles for all

least partial ownership, but is not involved in the

company and owners of the business.

4. Balancing of financial returns: Creating

family members.

buyout agreements is challenging. When the retiring generation looks to the value of their

interest, they may tend to look to a balance sheet number. However, the true value of a business should be based on an earnings capitalization model.

5. Estate and Inheritance issues: These include

state and federal estate and inheritance taxes and probate delays upon the death of a family owner.

■■ Identify required additional support for the successor from family members.

Step 4: Create a Business/Owner Estate Plan ■■ Address taxation implications to the owner/ business upon sale, death or divorce.

■■ Review owner estate planning to minimize

taxes and avoid delays in business transfer to remaining owners or spouse.

■■ Have an attorney draft a will and a revocable

■■ Consider some form of life insurance to

provide funds to your spouse or the family business in the event of your death.

Step 5: Create a Transition Plan ■■ Consider options: outright purchase, gift/ bequest or a combination of these.

■■ If the business is to be purchased, consider financing options including financing from an

external party or self-financed from the retiring owners on a deferred payout basis.

■■ Establish a timeline for plan implementation.

■■ Consider a partial sale of the business to

investors to fund your exit from the business.

■■ Beware of unintentional “tax traps.” For in-

stance, if the business buys your interest and you

continue to serve in some capacity, you may inadvertently turn capital gains into ordinary income.

Many family businesses do fail, primarily because of differing family interests and the ability of the next generation to grow the business. Taking

these five steps now will save money and time

and will help assure the continued success of your business.

About the Author Michael L. Evans is the national managing director for the Newport Board Group, a partnership of board directors and senior executive leaders with knowledge of business strategy, operations and capital markets.

Evans previously was with Ernst & Young. During his 34 years with the firm, he served as a tax, audit and consulting services partner, specializing in real estate companies and private businesses, as well as its global director of real estate and construction. Evans is a frequent writer for Forbes.com and authored two books. He can be reached at (415) 990-1844 or mievans@msn.com.

Are you transitioning your business to the next generation or are you interested in doing so?

By following five main steps, the business can

goes where you want it without excesses taxes

Check out ISFA’s Transition: Generation 2 program on April 28 to 29 in Toledo, Ohio, or in October in the St. Louis area.

financial independence of the retiring owner(s) and

■■ Create a buy/sell agreement that reflects the

Email info@isfanow.org.com or call (419) 779-0164 for more information.

What to Do? A Five-step Process

family trust agreement to assure the business

create a viable succession plan, provide for the

or inheritance complexities.

position it for continued success and growth:

value of the business and minimizes taxes.

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

Circle RS#10 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

In the Industry Cosentino Group Buys Its Canadian Distributor

ASID Receives Award in Spain from the Asociación de Empresarios del Mármol de Andalucía

The Cosentino Group recently acquired its

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) was recently honored at the prestigious Macael Awards, hosted by the Asociación de Empresarios del Mármol de Andalucía (AEMA), the leading natural stone association in the Almeria region of Spain. On behalf of ASID and

Canadian distribution partner Maple Terrazzo

Inc. for $11 million. The acquisition demonstrates its commitment to international expansion by

strengthening both its presence and distribution network in priority markets, including Toronto.

To date, Cosentino has opened four Cosentino

Centers in Canada and invested more than $21 million. Since 2014, the company has opened Centers in Calgary, Vancouver and Montreal.

These Centers include a functional warehouse, brand and product showroom supported

by a sales team. Cosentino will increase its

commitment to Canada with new investments and facilities, including a second Cosentino

Center scheduled to open in Montreal in 2016.

Livingstone Opens Distribution Hub, Hires Commercial Sales Representative

its more than 26,000 members, ASID CEO Randy Fiser and ASID National Chair, Board of Directors, Sandy Gordon, accepted the Institution Award, which recognizes professional organizations that play an integral role in strengthening the presence of Spain’s stone industry across the globe. “ASID is grateful to Cosentino Group for nominating our society for this esteemed award, and to AEMA for celebrating its international partnership with an organization that represents all aspects of the interior design profession,” said Fiser.

Gluewarehouse.com Achieves Greenguard Gold Certification Gluewarehouse.com, an online source for

professional adhesives, earned its GREENGUARD Gold Certification and put out an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its countertop

U.S. Surface Warehouse opened a new

and surfacing adhesives. UL Environment’s

Cerritos, Calif., that services from Fresno to San

information on a product’s environmental impact

addition to stocking all 46 “SmartPalette” colors,

eutrophication, depletion of natural resources

and stainless steel sinks and all matching Seam-It

the company underwent an extensive audit

Landman as it’s commercial sales representative

name in environmental testing and certification.

be responsible for all commercial sales activities

that are specified to include the GREENGUARD

working with fabricators, millworks and design

reported Chad Thomas of Gluewarehouse.com

She brings more than 10 years of experience in

facilities that demand the lowest level of VOCs

GranQuartz Moves to New Headquarters

Lackmond Acquires Diamond Tooling Solutions, Hires New Sales Rep

distribution hub for Livingstone Solid Surface in

EPD provides purchasers with comprehensive

Diego, as well as Las Vegas and all of Arizona. In

including carbon footprint, impact on acidification,

this 30,000-sq.-ft. facility houses solid surface

and energy consumption. To earn this EPD,

adhesives. The company also appointed Abigail

conducted by UL Environment, a respected

for Southern California. In her role Landman will

“We have seen a significant increase in projects

and commercial specifications in the area,

certification, especially in commercial projects,”

professionals, as well as other interested parties.

“Our formulation can be specified for use in

the surfacing industry.

such as schools and medical facilities.”

GranQuartz

moved into a new

80,000-sq.-ft facility in Norcross, Ga., to better serve its customers.

According to the company, the

move was required because of rapid

growth, and the new

facility will allow it to optimize its operations.

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

Lackmond Products, Inc., a supplier of diamond and carbide tools and equipment, and parent company of Lackmond Stone, has acquired

Diamond Tooling Solutions (DTS), of Royalton,

Minn. DTS product lines consist of Tyrolit CNC Tooling, Nemi Vacuum Pods, and many other

tools and supplies for the stone/quartz fabricator.

It also offers support and application solutions to

automated fabrication shops, whether calibrating a CNC machine or setting up new tools.

Additionally, Lackmond hired Randy Brock, who

has an extensive knowledge in diamond tool

manufacturing, as a sales representative, servicing customers and overseeing the company’s

sales strategies in the Southeast. Before joining Lackmond Stone, Brock worked as a sales

representative for Granite City Tool, and before

that worked for GranQuartz for nearly 28 years.

New IGNITE Education Program Featured at TISE The International Surface Event (TISE) 2016 offers the new IGNITE Education Program taking place

January 19 to 22 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. This educational program offers participants strategies for increasing a company’s profitability and productivity.

With more than 80 hours of standard industry

education and 88 hours of on-floor education, training and demos, attendees will have the

chance to learn from more than 100 speakers, panelists and industry pros. Held on the 19th through 21st, most seminars are 90 minutes.

2016 Presidential Candidate Forum to Be Held During Design & Construction Week Sponsored by the National Association of

Home Builders (NAHB), the National Journal in

partnership with Vegas PBS will convene a 2016 presidential candidate forum during Design &

Construction Week in Las Vegas in January. The

week includes the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), TISE and the International Builders Show (IBS). The forum titled, “Building Opportunity:

Solutions for the American Dream,” will give the candidates the opportunity to address issues

affecting the country in front of the largest annual

Circle RS#11 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

In the Industry gathering of housing industry professionals. The candidates are invited to discuss their vision for taking on America’s domestic, economic and

foreign policy issues. The event will be held at

the Westgate Hotel, Paradise Event Center, on Jan. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

GlueBoss Names Tenax as Exclusive Distributor of Its StoneBond Acrylic Adhesives

fabricator to identify immediately whether the glue is activated or not. It has exceptional bonding abilities to even moist stone, reports the company, and is available in 250ml and 500ml cartridges.

M S International Expands New York/New Jersey Distribution Center, Opens New Facility in Detroit

Selection Showroom features a new Natural

Stone Slab Selection Center where customers

can view more than 350 colors of natural stone.

The Q™ Premium Natural Quartz Gallery and

Selection Center displays the entire quartz

collection of more than 40 colors. With the expansion into the new distribution center,

MSI now occupies three major buildings in

Edison, N.J., totaling more than 600,000 sq.

ft. Addtionally, the company opened its 19th distribution center just outside of Detroit,

GlueBoss Adhesive Company partnered with Tenax USA, who is now the exclusive North

in Wixom, Mich. The new facility features a

adhesive line, StoneBond. StoneBond, made for

full offering of MSI’s product lines.

65,000-sq.-ft. distribution center showcasing a

American distributor for GlueBoss’ newest

stone and quartz offers strength and flexibility,

and distribute the adhesive out of its corporate

of its distribution center in Edison, N.J. The expansion includes a new 350,000-sq.-ft.

Hanwha Surfaces Expands Stalwart Systems Partnership, Opens New Facility in Philadelphia

distribution points throughout the United States

distribution center offering an extensive selection

Hanwha Surfaces expanded its relationship with

nonsag dripless adhesive. A unique feature of

includes showrooms for each of the major

reports the company. Tenax USA will market

M S International Inc. completed the expansion

headquarters in Charlotte, N.C., with future

by the end of Q1 2016. StoneBond is a 10:1

of MSI’s stone, quartz and porcelain. It also

the glue is the colored activator side allowing a

product categories. For countertops, the Slab

Stalwart Systems. One of the largest distributors

of HanStone Quartz nationally, Stalwart Systems’ new warehouse will now be the exclusive

Circle RS#12 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2002 18 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

distributor of HanStone Quartz in Nashville and Memphis, Tenn., as well as parts of Kentucky, Mississippi and Arkansas. Hanwha has been

working closely with Stalwart Systems since 2005.

Additionally, Hanwha opened a direct distribution center near Philadelphia in North Wales, Pa. The

40,000-sq.-ft. facility features a showroom, office

space, a training room and a full-service warehouse.

It also has a full line of quartz slabs so customers can see their quality and design firsthand. Its

1,500-sq.-ft. showroom serves as the centerpiece for HanStone Quartz and Hanex Solid Surfaces’

latest products and includes five kitchen vignettes featuring the latest countertop design trends. The

company is also opening a similar direct distribution center in Atlanta.

its existing territory of Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan, All Tile now has coverage of much of the North Central Region. The firm has 25 Midwestern facilities with 270 employees.

VT Industries Acquires Capitoline Products VT Industries, Inc. acquired Capitoline Products, Inc. Both family-owned companies have facilities in Rome, Ga. Capitoline Products is a regional laminate countertop and decorative panel manufacturer. Capitoline services Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama and North and South Carolina.

Concrete Decor Show Calls for Trainers/Speakers The 2016 Concrete Decor is seeking proposals

All Tile Expands to Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky

Neolith Launches New Website with Enhanced Features Visualization Tool Neolith sintered compact surfaces manufactured

by TheSize has launched a redesigned website at www.neolith.com to meet the architectural

and design needs of its customers. The site is

now organized by collections, applications and projects, allowing industry professionals and

homeowners to benefit from richer online content, navigate effortlessly and visualize the product

with ease. The site better shows the product’s

aesthetics, with improved imagery throughout, installation and fabrication videos, and a new visualizer tool that allows visitors to see a

simulated version of the Neolith collection, color and finish in the application of their choice.

or panel discussion for next year’s show, to be

Winners Announced in BLANCO Design Contest

Chicago-based All Tile, Inc. was appointed the

held Sept. 25 to 29 in San Diego. The education

BLANCO announced the three winners of

Surfaces and Radianz® Quartz Surfaces for

emerging issues in concrete design, application,

for educational seminars, hands-on workshop

exclusive distributor of Samsung Staron® Solid

program focuses on topics related to current and

the states of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. With

repair, maintenance and business management.

the #BLANCODreamKitchen Design Contest.

After sifting through dozens of stunning

designs, BLANCO along with a panel of design

Circle RS#13 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2005

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 19

In the Industry professionals chose one first place winner, Florida designer Marilyn Russell to win the $1,000 grand prize along with two runners-up, Milwaukee designer Lila Guizado and Philadelphia designer Mick Ricereto. The contest encouraged designers to submit an original hand or digital drawing of their dream kitchen featuring the BLANCO PRECIS™ and BLANCO CULINA MINI™.

Formica Corporation Names Mike Berg as North American Vice President of Sales Formica Corporation hired Mike Berg as vice president of sales. In this role, Berg will oversee North American sales operations, and lead strategic selling initiatives and key customer relationships. Berg’s expertise includes 26 years of experience in sales and sales leadership roles at a variety of very large, prominent companies.

ETemplate Systems Exhibiting at TISE and Offering Free Show Registration Code ETemplate Systems will be exhibiting at The International Surface Event (TISE) taking place January 20 through 22 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. The company will be demonstrating its ELaser Pro™ and ELaser Xpress™ featuring the power of its custom designed Measure Manager™ Software for countertop templating. And ETemplate is offering a code potential attendees can use, for a limited time, to register for the show online free of charge. Those interested must visit https://www.tisewest.com/Attendee/RegForm?PromoCode=XB143.

Marble Institute and Building Stone Institute Consider Consolidation After a year of discussion, the boards of the Marble Institute of America (MIA) and Building Stone Institute (BSI) voted to ask their respective members to consolidate their operations for two years. A vote by each organization’s members is expected to happen before the end of the year.

The recommendation for this two-year consolidation came from a task force made up of both organizations that discussed their similarities and duplication of efforts. If agreed upon, after two years both memberships would decide to fully integrate or separate. The combined group would be called: “MIA + BSI - the natural stone institute.”

Coverings 2016 Trade Show Offers Free Admission Taking place April 18 to 21 in Chicago at McCormick Place, Coverings tile and stone show offers free registration to all distributors, retailers, specifiers, builders, remodelers, fabricators, contractors and installers at www.coverings.com. Coverings offers dozens of free education sessions led by experienced and knowledgeable professionals, and provides numerous opportunities to network with peers and visit more than 1,100 exhibitors from 40 countries.

Circle RS#14 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013

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

Circle RS#15 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 21

Sink Spotlight

A look at the latest and greatest in sinks, bowls and basins

cabinet. The sinks dimensions are 30¾ in. by 9¾ in. by 7½ in., are 80 percent solid granite and heat-resistant up to 536 F. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, acids and alkali solutions.

Circle RS#38 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Franke Granite Sinks BLANCO Creates PRECIS Sink with Drainer and Integral Drainboard BLANCO introduced the BLANCO PRECIS Medium Single with Drainer featuring an integral drainboard for drying dishes or food prep. The new sink offers an angular design, durable SILGRANIT II surface and a unique wave-shaped integrated stainless grid that effectively doubles the drying area when the grid sits on the sink’s functional ledge. This reversible, dual-mount sink can be undermounted or installed as a topmount, and its custom accessories, including drainer grid, colanders and cutting board, create a workstation right on top of the sink. Its compact size is also great for kitchens that are limited on space. The sinks are available in White, Biscuit, Biscotti, Café Brown, Truffle, Metallic Grey, Cinder and Anthracite. Custom-designed accessories, such as a stainless steel mesh colander, are included. An optional beechwood cutting board fits on top of the sink. As an undermount, it fits 36-in. cabinets and as a drop-in it fits in a 27-in.

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

Chemcore Urban Apron is the newest sink product Chemcore Industries has developed. It is a unique apron farmhouse-style sink that features an open area between the sink bowl and the front apron, which allows the sink to drop over the cabinet edge. This means it can be mounted in most standard kitchen cabinets, without cutting. The front apron is 6½ in. in depth, allowing standard cabinet doors to be opened without interfering with the normally lower apron.

The sink is 9 in. in depth, and comes in 30- and 33-in. widths. They are available in both a large single bowl as well as a low-divide 50/50 style.

Bowls on all four models feature the new “radial” 15 degree inside rounded corner design, which can make cleaning easier. They also feature extra heavy sound deadening coating, and triple thickness sound deadening pads.

Circle RS#39 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

See our ad on Page 20

Launching in January, Franke will have nine new models of granite sinks in six finishes: Onyx, Mocha, Storm, Oyster, Champagne and Vanilla.

The sinks feature antimicrobial protection to inhibit the growth of bacteria that may affect the sink surface. They also have a durable surface that is heat-resistant. The Franke Granite Orca Single Bowl sink comes with Franke’s integrated ledge system.

Circle RS#40 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Gemstone Five new lavatory models of sinks were introduced by Gemstone. These sinks are

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designed to have a cleaner look, more sizes to choose from, offset drains and universal designs. They include the new universally designed 1711-UVO (with or without an integrated overflow) made for 18-in. cabinets; 1416-V and 1518-V for hand-washing stations that can be installed with a flush backsplash; 1513-VO ramp sink with rear overflow; and 1814-EVO shallow rectangle sink with side overflow that complies with Europe’s ADA requirements. With more ramped sinks for healthcare, they can be integrated with the backsplash in fabrication for a design that reduces areas that might harbor bacteria.

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laminate and solid surface, but it also allows for a flush installation in granite and quartz countertop materials.

Circle RS#45 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

See our ad on Page 29

baked at 1,500 F, porcelain surfaces are nonchipping and resistant to scratches or stains.

They are available in eight distinctive colors: White, Biscuit, Lemon, Mint, Slate, Espresso, Navy Blue and Black.

Circle RS#43 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

See our ad on Page 17

KOHLER® Neoroc™

Grifform Custom shapes, sizes and configurations of solid surface sinks are always available from Grifform, which allows you to offer special new models to your customers with minimum effort and cost to you. In some instances new prototypes have been delivered in as short as two weeks. The company already has many design applications such as Pedestal, Trench, Baby Bath, Oval and Round Lavatory sinks.

Its round corner model kitchen sinks are made to the customers’ required shapes and sizes in any color, depth and configuration in overor under-mount applications. The company now also offers Mini Model Lavatories for the transportation and recreational vehicles industry. Healthcare has long incorporated Grifform baby baths, operating and emergency room scrub sinks and a large offering of ADA sinks and shower pans.

ILBAGNOALESSI The visual anchor and keynote design element of ILBAGNOALESSI One is the floor-standing wash basin, affectionately called Tam-Tam, for its likeness to a drum. Cast in one piece, it encapsulates the technical inner workings in a column. This ceramic sink with organic looks has won also a Design Plus award.

KRION

Houzer Inc.

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

Circle RS#39 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#44 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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Undermount Porcelain enamel steel sinks from Houzer are one of the company’s latest offerings. The Porcela Series feature porcelain enamel steel sinks with an innovative twist of material. These porcelain enamel steel sinks offer the high end look of cast iron but are 65 percent lighter, providing a twist on traditional style with easy undermount installation. Double

The KOHLER Company’s durable Neoroc composite material for sinks offers a matte finish that’s designed to complement countertops. And because Neoroc sinks are solid as a rock, they will stand up to years of kitchen tasks, reports the company. With impact, stain, and heat resistance, the sinks have a lifetime limited warranty. The Cairn Collection, crafted from Neoroc, has gentle curves that flow into the sinks by clean, simple design lines. They are available in three configurations (large single-basin, double-equal two-basin and offset two-basin) and in two colors (matte black and matte brown).

Karran Karran’s Edge Series stainless steel sinks have a unique resin rim that features a sharp 90-degree edge where it transitions from the flat rim to the vertical bowl wall. Not only does this make it perfect for seamlessly integrating into

Made of KRION solid surface Snow White color, the wash basins in the Unique Series offer broad design potential because of the different positions in which they can be fitted and their combinability. These stylish oval wash basins come in three different versions: a recessed, semi-recessed and countertop model.

Circle RS#46 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

See our ad on Page 35

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 25

Lapicida Lapicida offers a collection of basins in classical and contemporary shapes. Each piece is a sculpture in its own right, carved from a single block of stone or marble and hand finished.

Lapicida also makes bespoke basins available in various materials, including semiprecious stones. The sink collection includes options like the Oval in Blue Batieg limestone, the Oval in Mocca Fino limestone, the Cubist in Blue Batieg limestone, the Makrana in Indian white marble and the Ellipse in Arabascato marble.

in North America and are available in 18 to 24 gauges, with less expensive 6-in. depths also available as an option. According to the company, the stainless steel sinks are fully insulated, which helps prevent dripping and condensation buildup under the sink. In addition, a coat of barrier formula is sprayed on the bottom for extra protection. Sound dampening pads are also added to the sinks to minimize the "tin" sound when water is running.

Circle RS#49 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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creates a unity between it and the countertop with clean lines and seamless integration. Its seamless properties contribute to its durability by reducing weak areas and joints. The basin size, measuring 26 by 17 by 8 in., was introduced to meet demand for a deeper, wider Silestone sink basin. They are available in a selection of Silestone’s most popular colors (White Zeus Extreme, Lyra and Lagoon) and feature lack of porosity, and have scratch-, stain- and heat-resistant qualities for which quartz surfacing products are known.

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LG HAUSYS Releases Three New HI-MACS Solid Surface LG HI-MACS extended its offering by adding three solid surface basins to its standard bathroom collection. The slender top-mounted basins — squared, rectangular and circular shaped — are specially designed to sit on top of vanity units or customized top surfaces. Mix and match is a reality, especially for renovation projects where there is a desire to combine styles and materials for an eclectic space design. The solid surface characteristic and sleek design of these basins marry perfectly with other materials and surfaces: from concrete to wood, vintage tiles or any other surface.

Acrylic basins are nonporous, stain-resistant and resistant to scratches and wear. The collection is available in the shades Alpine White and Nougat Cream.

Circle RS#48 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

MR Direct MR Direct offers a new series of lower-priced stainless steel sinks with top-mounting or under-mounting options. They are made 26 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Native Trails Native Trails has concrete sinks made of a unique cement and jute fiber mixture called NativeStone™. The NativeStone line includes kitchen, bar/prep and lavatory sinks. According to the company, the sinks are made impervious to staining by use of a nano sealer. Jute fiber, a renewable vegetable fiber, is integrated throughout the concrete, resulting in a material that is resistant to cracking. The sinks are reportedly 40 percent lighter than those made with more traditional cement mixtures, improving the ease of installation and expense to ship.

Circle RS#50 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Silestone Silestone expanded its collection of integrated natural quartz basins with the introduction of the Integrity DUE XL, the largest Silestone sink ever developed, touting oversized dimensions for even greater ease of use. Created from a single piece of Silestone quartz surfacing, the sink

SolidSurface.com SolidSurface.com added more than 700 sinks and sink accessories in 2015, including major brands such as Blanco, Elkay and Karran, with more to come. The addition of these sinks is part of SolidSurface.com’s continued goal of becoming the industry’s centralized online order desk for surfacing material and related supplies. In addition to sinks, the company primarily offers a variety of brands and lines of solid surface sheet products, overstock and discontinued sheet goods and remnant material from leading brands such as Corian, HI-MACS, Formica, Wilsonart, Avonite, Livingstone, Mystera, Hanex, Staron, Meganite, and more.

SolidSurface.com is also home to ProFinder, a free searchable directory of countertop professionals for specifiers and homeowners.

Circle RS#52 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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Neolith Made of the same material as the Neolith kitchen countertop, the Neolith sink perfectly integrates for a functional kitchen concept.

Neolith is a brand of all-natural sintered compact surfaces with near-zero porosity, making it hygienic, stain-resistant, easy to clean and impervious to chemicals. The product is also wear-, scratch- and heat-resistant, and its all-natural colors are fade-protected. Neolith sinks maintain the elegance and durability inherent to the material. Available in four formats and two finishes, satin and silk, as well as several different colors, the possibilities with Neolith sinks are endless. The Kitchen Lounge Line provides a more uniform and minimalist appearance to kitchens with sinks made of the same material as is used for the kitchen countertops.

TopZero Seamless Edge Sinks All TopZero stainless steel sinks are manufactured with premium 304 series stainless steel that is nonporous, hygienic, rust free and durable. The company also offers wide range of custom fit cutting boards, colanders and stainless steel grids or rinsing baskets to protect the sink bottoms. The seamless-look TopZero sinks can be successfully installed in virtually any surface such as solid surface, granite, marble, engineered quartz, wood butcher block as well as porcelain slab or honeycomb/ veneered natural stones.

Villeroy & Boch

TOTO

Thompson Traders’ founder and creative director, Alejandra Thompson, created Milagro, a bath basin with a heart-shaped embossing whose name means "miracle" in honor of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Salud — the Church of Our Lady of Health — based on her personal connection to the church where miracles are said to occur. The solid copper bowls are hand-hammered by craftsmen in Santa Clara del Cobre, Mexico, where generations of coppersmiths have used time-honored, metal-crafting techniques. No two pieces produced at its factory there are exactly alike.

Circle RS#54 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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

Circle RS#57 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#55 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#53 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Thompson Traders

performance designed to delight and inspire.

Every Hahn sink is produced using fine materials with meticulous attention to detail — including more features and components.

Stainless steel sinks are among the choices for today’s kitchens, and their neutral color and sleek finish complement a wide range of styles.

U.S. Surface Warehouse offers Hahn Classic Chef Series, Farmhouse Series, Small Radius Series and Embossed Series. It also offers the company’s Copper, FireClay and Granite Series.

TOTO's new Atherton undercounter lavatories offer an appealing and versatile design option suitable for any bathroom environment. With clean lines, simple geometric shapes and precise symmetry, these new undermount lavatories offer the sleek look of a seamless transition from basin to countertop. They are available in three designs — two oval models that measure 17 by 14 in. and 19 by 15 in., and a rectangular model that measures 17 by 13 in. Their easy-to-clean basins have vertical sides and a flat bottom. These universal design undercounter lavatories are ADA compliant.

Circle RS#56 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

U.S. Surface Warehouse U.S. Surface Warehouse, suppliers of Livingstone solid surface, offers Hahn kitchen and bathroom sinks that provide distinctive style, craftsmanship and uncompromising

Villeroy & Boch has a new Octagon wash basin, a luxury bathroom innovation. The octagon has long been a symbol of perfection and is a unique design for the bathroom sink segment, requiring precision manufacturing. The interior of the wash basin features precise, beveled lines, reminiscent of a jewel. Made of the company’s TitanCeram, a pioneering blend of clay, quartz, feldspar and titanium oxide, this material allows for precise design, enabling the creation of thin walls and clearly defined edges.

The material also is shock- and scratch-proof, resistant to extreme temperatures, and is particularly easy to clean. The basin’s pedestal can be finished with several premium options, including leather, real wood veneer or stone veneer.

Circle RS#58 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Woodstock Supply Wood Stock Supply carries many sink models to choose from with a fast turnaround time. A new prominent line is Gemstone’s universal design sinks that allow fabricators more flexibility when installing sinks in healthcare and ADA applications. Gemstone has worked

with architects and designers to improve the

ease of fabrication and installation. These new sinks allow for installation closer to the front, allowing for easier wheelchair access. When

bacteria is a concern, the company has integral overflow designs with smooth poly tubes for

maximum protection. The sinks are 100 percent acrylic solid surface that is nonporous, so

they are naturally resistant to mold and stains.

For more information about these products, fax the reader service form on page 57 to (412) 487-3269 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Woodstock also stocks SeamPro bonder, Silco

silicone sealants and Mystera solid surface to go with specified sinks.

Circle RS#59 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#18 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2002 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 29

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

PHOTO TAKEN BY CHUCK CHOI ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY

A Project with a

S

Fabricator conquers complex commercial construction of KRION® solid surface stairway

By Andrew Dreves, ASID Spiral staircases are certainly nothing new but fabricating an enormous one in solid surface with compound angles, well that is new. And that’s exactly the project that renowned architectural firm Payette had in mind for an atrium in the building that would connect both 75 and 125 Binney Street, in the heart of Boston, that when completed would be the home of Ariad Pharmaceuticals.

The design for the monumental stairs was

And it is that reputation that led to Payette being

depicted in the Ariad Pharmaceuticals logo.

high regard that fabrication company ASST,

inspired by the red spiraling spool of thread However, the design was highly complex with two surface planes meeting along a

rising curve (see Figure 1). The difficulty of

fabricating the project was nearly as massive as the project itself, so much so that most

fabricators wouldn’t even attempt it. However,

Payette already knew a company that would be likely to take on the challenge.

The Architectural Firm Payette was no stranger to complex projects.

Although it is based in Boston, it has

completed advanced architectural projects around the world.

The firm was originally most well known for the many hospital and healthcare facilities

it designed centered on enhancing patient experiences. It created architecture with

an intimate connection to the landscape

coupled with an abundant use of color and natural light to help orient patients and

visitors. Through the promotion of the same humanistic values and fundamental design approach, over time the firm broadened its focus to include high-technology

buildings, bringing deep technical expertise, Figure 1 – Krion in the colors Red Fire and Snow White were used on the stair with the Snow White cladding on the underbelly and interior areas of the stair. An expansion joint located at the facet between the upper and lower panels provided room for adjustment prior to the final Krion panel glue-up.

commitment to rigorous research and

dedication to beauty to a new class of

projects. Today, the practice has advanced

selected to work on this project. Similarly, the

based in south central Pennsylvania, was held in based on the positive outcome of the previous work it had performed with Payette, was the motivating factor to bringing the fabricator

onboard for this difficult project. ASST had

previously worked with Payette on the Penn

State Hershey Children’s Hospital and so the

architect was familiar with the well-developed thermoforming capabilities ASST possessed.

While other fabricators were invited to bid on

the project, ultimately it didn’t necessarily come down to price, but rather ASST was selected

because of its thermoforming experience and clean safety record combined with its ability to provide an adequate bonding on a large

complicated project such as this to reduce owner and general contractor risk.

The Fabricator So who was this fabricator daring enough

to take on such a difficult project? If you ask anyone familiar with ASST, they likely won’t

be surprised that the company stepped up to

the plate. ASST is an award-winning specialty surfaces fabricator and manufacturer. As

an industry leader, it specializes in complex

fabrications and complete Division 6 millwork and casework solutions for the healthcare industry.

as an international architectural thought

However, its work spans a variety of markets

services to leading institutions across the

retail and corporate/public space arenas.

leader, providing planning and design country and abroad.

beyond healthcare, such as the education, Known for its innovative (and patented)

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 31

Figure 2 – After the stair design was finalized, a working mockup was created of one landing to verify the geometry and for architect final approval.

Figure 3 – ASST utilized the final 3-D models as the basis for machining the MDF thermoforming molds with its KOMO 5-axis CNC machine. A total of 12 MDF molds were used to create the curved thermoformed Krion panels for final attachment.

thermoforming technologies and product

The company’s headquarters encompass

others avoid. It brings to the table a passion for

and fabrication facilities, including a very

designs, ASST takes on project challenges

excellence — to go beyond and to build what some initially thought was impossible. Since

its founding in 1998, ASST has developed an

impressive portfolio of successfully completed projects with high-profile contractors,

architects, interior designers and end users.

52,000 sq. ft. and includes both offices

large thermoforming workshop. Among the

equipment at the disposal of the 31 employees

of the company are three thermoforming ovens

three CNC machines: one 5-axis KOMO CNC machine, one 3-axis KOMO CNC machine and one 3-axis Heian CNC machine. For cutting parts the company also has a Schelling panel saw. The shop is set up into typical “line work”

and two vacuum tables, as well as a 60-ton

areas for more common flat fabrication work,

to patented ASST technologies. It also has

custom projects.

proprietary press and a vacuum press related

but also has various open workshop areas for

Figure 4 – The interlocking plywood support rib assemblies were attached to the curved steel upright supports.

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

Circle RS#19 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Figure 5 – The Krion panels were hung with z-clips to the plywood substructure.

It seems ASST was custom-made for this highly custom project. But once they had been selected for the work, the venture had to be realized.

The Process The architectural team underwent many design variations, but the main design intent was for the stair to appear to be fabricated from continuous solid surface.

The Porcelanosa Group’s Krion solid surface material, a relative newcomer to the U.S. solid surface market, was chosen by the architects because of its excellent thermoforming capabilities. According to the manufacturer, Krion is a “new generation of solid surface” and has a unique proprietary blend of approximately 75 percent ATH to 25 percent resin. This makes the material easier to thermoform, according to the company, and also best ensures color consistency throughout each sheet. Of course, each manufacturer touts a variety of

Circle RS#20 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2004 34 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

properties that make it stand out from the rest,

disciplines (see Figure 3). The group utilized

Krion solid surface in “Fire Red” and “Snow

thermoformability) is in the eye of the beholder.

to determining the aspects of the steel

project was completed (see Figure 5). The

but as we all know, beauty (or in this case

One of the main complexities of the project, beyond its size, was a result of the stairs

having two curved and rising surface planes with cut angles that, by nature, constantly

3-D modeling extensively when it came

substructure, built by DeAngelis Iron Work, for

the plywood support ribs (see Figure 4). When

all was said and done, 80 hours of design work were required.

White” were installed using z-clips and the final result is nothing short of an amazing accomplishment for all involved, and is another spectacular project for Payette and ASST to proudly hang their hats on.

changed as the material pieces were routed to

Then came the 2,000 hours of fabrication,

fabrication work could be done, modeling

programming and run-time on the 5-axis

to Payette’s Gordon Grisinger and Hillary

were fabricated, glued up and sanded, the

DeAngelis Iron Work and ASST’s team (in no

for shipping to the site in Boston for assembly.

Brian Magness, Bob Hannigan, Mike Henry,

the correct dimensions. So, before any actual was required. Once an initial design was put together, a mockup of one landing was built

in the ASST shop to verify the geometry (see Figure 2). Once it was created, the design could then be tweaked according to the

architects input, with regard to the lighting and tread termination locations, etc.

To improve the flow of information between the fabricators and architect, a co-location

work arrangement was established on-site in Boston to speed up the final design process

and to improve communication among team members. With everyone working in one location for two weeks, design revisions

were realized faster and coordinated across

which included 196 hours of CNC

The author would like to offer special thanks

KOMO machine. And once all of the parts

Barlow for their design vision, steel fabricator

panels were numbered, labeled and prepared

particular order): Nick Buckley, Josh Cowden,

Unfortunately, though, this wasn’t the end of the challenges involved in the project. As is

the case with Northeastern winters, Boston

Jared Shearer, John Sulc and the entire ASST production team.

was hit by weekly blizzards during installation.

About the Author

schedule by four weeks, and Boston officials

Andrew Dreves, ASID, is the director of marketing and Products Workshop for ASST, 350 South St., McSherrystown, PA 17344; www.asst.com. He is responsible for strategic business development, marketing, branding and product design initiatives for the company and can be reached by email at andrewdreves@asst.com or by phone at (717) 6301251 ext. 305.

The extreme cold temperatures delayed the even declared a state of emergency at one point with mandatory traffic shutdowns preventing deliveries to the site.

In spite of the challenges and compressed

schedule, in the end 215 sheets of ½-in.-thick

Circle RS#21 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 35

Investment & Financial Modeling — A Leadership Mind-set …

By P. Max Le Pera

“Great leaders are almost always

■■ Full Absorption Costing versus Contribution Margin

great simplifiers, who can cut

■■ Financial and Operational Leverage

through argument, debate and

■■ Sensitivity or Swing Analysis

doubt, to offer a solution everybody can understand.” — Collin Powell

Capital Budgeting and Project Assessment Capital Investment decisions typically involve the purchase of land, machinery, buildings,

Financial models were developed to serve

trucks, etc., and are among a company’s

returns and more. Understanding these written

harrowing because they require large sums of

hieroglyphics. Although intimidating, there

into the future. So how do we keep it simple,

needing advanced mathematics to help make

can against walking into the land of no-return?

as objective ways to evaluate pricing, risk,

most important strategic decisions. They are

models, however, can equate to deciphering

money upfront with the benefit coming years

is a way to grasp their essence without

nonmathematical and hedge as much as we

businesses more successful, systematic and

First, understand this: To commit large sums of

profitable.

My goal is to translate some key economic/

investment models into more understandable terms to help you make the best financial/

investment decisions. I’m convinced the mindset and ability to think critically are among a

leader’s most valuable gifts. By conceptualizing the underlying fundamentals of financial theory, we can avoid gut-wrenching math and overly mechanical procedures, which are arguably ineffective in small businesses.

Five concepts I’ve demystified here should

help you think more critically when faced with having to expand, borrow, invest, divest, hire,

leverage, price, etc. Obviously there are many more concepts, but I’ve selected those most

applicable to the surfacing audience. Here I can only summarize the essence of the model to

strengthen the strategic resolve in making some of the most important decisions.

■■ Capital Investment Analysis: Pay Back

Period (PBP), Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) ■■ Opportunity Cost 36 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

money, time and other resources on a hunch

or “strong belief,” without analysis that weighs incremental costs and benefits, estimates

cash flows, time value, cost of capital, etc.,

is tantamount to gambling! Small business owners may be adept at finding ad hoc

solutions and be blessed with gut instincts

that guide them in uncertain waters, but, all

too often, poorly evaluated capital investment decisions lead to the downfall of a business.

That said, an appetite for growth will invariably make potential large-scale investments

necessary. Financing of the project is one set of decisions required; i.e., do I borrow money or

use retained earnings (cash in bank)? Every time you invest money, there is a cost of capital —

personal in small business and not as clear-cut as the investment optimization protocol used by larger companies.

So how can we feel more secure about making large investments or selecting among various alternatives? As in any analysis, the quality of your inputs (assumptions, returns, incremental costs, timing, etc.) is directly linked to the quality of your output, (the answer telling you if and to what extent the investment creates positive value).

The three most commonly used project assessment tools are Pay Back Period (PBP), Net Present Value (NPV), which is also called the Discounted Cash Flow model, and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). There are formulas for each and yet, ironically, that’s the easy part! Let’s identify the key drivers of each so we can utilize their essence.

Pay Back Period PBP is just that; it’s the time it takes for the benefit to equal the investment — presumably the point you start getting a positive ROI. PBP is expressed in “time,” which is useful when the PBP is defined and compared to projected significant changes in the economic and political environment, family life, key personnel tenure, etc. Typically, PBP is the least scientific and effective as a stand-alone measure; however, its value emerges when computed in tandem with its more sophisticated partners of NPV and IRR.

always! — even if you use your own cash. Why?

Net Present Value

capital” — that is, the lost return you could have

NPV,

Using your cash carries an “opportunity cost of used for a more pressing need, e.g., invested it in marketable securities, hired another salesperson, etc.

The decision to use cash versus borrowed

funds can also be a function of your aversion

to risk — solvency risk, specifically. This is very

, is a

formula (and theory) that evaluates the differences of the sums of the discounted cash inflows and outflows of a project. Simply put, if the calculation yields a positive integer, then the project returns more than it costs.

Circle RS#22 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

What is important to grasp from this financial

amount, IRR yields a percentage. Positive net

fixed and variable cost in your business gets

is worth more than a dollar tomorrow. A dollar

that is the relative indicator of how your money

basis for your pricing. Ideally, the more custom

model is this: Time is money. So, a dollar today today is certain and a dollar in the future carries uncertainty risk and therefore is slightly less

valuable from an “expected value” standpoint.

Additionally, a dollar in the future may need to be allocated to the cost of capital to secure that future dollar.

income is wonderful, but it’s the percentage is working for you.

The more complete and accurate the

you will incur, including labor, machinery,

fabricators’ work. This methodology states as

overhead, utilities, etc. Sales may increase

to which your NPV could be positive. Also,

money and heartache to invest in. In rationing

the investment — key factors that play a huge

is indispensable to success.

higher the cost, the more it reduces the extent

yield percentage makes it worth your time,

incremental expenses incurred as a result of

resources, drilling down into these fine details

control over these two areas. Remember, the more complete and accurate your input, the more dependable your assessment.

One thing that can help you is to get on a

first name basis with your local bank general

manager or president. Consider taking a small bridge loan once or twice and pay it back

on time flawlessly so you establish a “credit

rapport.” If ever you need a favor, this history

will be vital to your banker’s extending himself/ herself for you.

Essentially, this model requires one to identify, estimate and quantify the projected benefits from the investment — along with the time frame of these benefits (increased sales,

liberated cash, etc.). Then, these benefits are weighed against the outflows (costs)

as a direct result of making that investment (headcount, additional truck, increase in

utilities, etc.); the cost of capital (financial

leverage); and the timing of these outflows.

The result is a time-adjusted net value of the

investment. When positive, it adds value to the business.

NPV’s one main drawback is it doesn’t

consider the ROI percentage. Positive returns on investments are wonderful, but you

must also consider those with the highest

percentage return to optimize your investment portfolio.

Internal Rate of Return IRR, aka Intrinsic Rate of Return, is effectively your break-even rate or the rate of return

achieved when you set your NPV to zero.

The math here is the proof to assure that an

investment should be selected only where the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is

lower than the IRR. Nonmath applied theory

can help you this way: if the NPV yields a dollar 38 • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

absorbed your item can be.

A contribution margin approach to pricing

think through all the incremental expenses

by entering a new product line or region, but

are often underestimated. You have relative

and unique a product is, the more cost-

input, the better the assessment. Carefully

The cost of capital is a significant cost. The

role in the quality of your ROI assessment —

allocated as product cost and sets the cost

Touching on opportunity cost again, it’s

important to remember there is a cost to every decision, including the decision to do nothing.

By doing nothing, you have foregone the

opportunity to do something; therefore, that

appears to be much more applicable to

long as your price covers your variable costs

then anything you charge over and above goes toward your fixed expenses.

The degree to which you are financially and operationally leveraged, i.e., the degree to which you utilize fixed expenses as your

slingshot to profit, is also a necessary element

in pricing design. However, that is a subject for a future article.

Sensitivity or “Swing Analysis”

gain has been lost. Opportunity cost plays a

Sometimes the desire to have one tell-all

finite and you really need to make the wisest

what happens to ROI calculations when

role in capital rationing when resources are

answer can be misleading. For example,

decisions.

assumptions are over or underestimated? In

Opportunity cost can be expressed financially, or in terms of leisure or family time lost.

Here are three very real examples to put into perspective:

■■ The opportunity cost of a stone fabricator shying away from quartz fabrication can be extremely high.

■■ The opportunity cost of keeping too

much cash in the bank is the yield lost on discounts taken on accounts payable or very safe and liquid investments

■■ The opportunity cost of collecting your accounts receivable in 45+ days versus 30 days may be the discount you could

these cases, your best hedge is to perform a

swing analysis, which is a measure of elasticity in your ROI.

Critical input variables such as increased sales

or volume throughput should be evaluated over a range of estimates to determine the marginal effect on ROI. You can also hold constant your sales and volume estimates, but toggle some

costs to see how sensitive your ROI responds to assumption changes.

If your ROI remains relatively stable given

reasonable changes in your inputs, then you gain a higher degree of resolve about your decision.

have asked your suppliers for in expediting

Financial modeling is essential to investment

hand.

costs and benefits weighed against time and

payments to them had you enough cash on Full Absorption Versus Contribution Margin Theory

These theories relate to price/costing

methodologies. I believe pricing decisions

may be the hardest business decisions. Do

you price what the market can bear and your actual costs to fabricate a top? Theoretically,

everything you sell should have a component

of overhead allocated to it, but what’s fair and reasonable?

Essentially, most fabricators are not piece-

mealing work or making only one ultra-custom item. When production is very limited and specialized, you can effectively argue for

full-absorption costing — that is, every bit of

decisions. The model drivers center around cost of capital. Understanding the value of opportunities discarded (opportunity cost)

and the sensitivity of project assessments to

changes in input variables will facilitate more critically and analytically based investment

decisions, ultimately optimizing companies’ values and strategic positions.

About the author P. Max Le Pera is principal partner of Global Surfacing Alliance, LLC with 20 years’ experience in business and marketing strategy for the building materials industry. He can be reached at (908) 3585252 or by email at PMax@ GlobalSurfacingAlliance.com.

Circle RS#23 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

A Tale of

ries o t c a F Two

be ss the Glo o r c a s t n nd rent Pla Meet Dema How Diffe o t r e h t e og Worked T

The last remaining Formica Solid Surface Plant (formerly the Fountainhead Solid Surface plant) after razing.

line to acrylic chemistry. It also picked up a

domestic (U.S.) OEM supplier who manufactures the material on a continuous line. Let’s call the domestic supplier “Factory 2.” Because of

the nature of a continuous line, it’s extremely

arduous to manufacture patterns with extremely large particulate (larger than 4mm to 6mm) in

d Elbon

By Leonar

high visual density. This has to do with the line speed and what method is used to add the

larger particulate, but generally continuous lines stick with particulate that is 4mm or smaller (or occasionally up to 6mm). However, there are

also certain patterns more easily produced on a continuous line.

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times …” I’m sure many of you remember reading A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, which compared and contrasted two cities: London and Paris, before and after the French revolution. So taking a cue from Dickens, I’m doing the same with two OEM manufacturers of Formica acrylic solid surface material located halfway around the world from each other. I hope to provide some insight into how OEM contracts are awarded; how capability, timing and pricing play into that; and some of the things entailed in pulling off a new product introduction on a tight timeline. when I reminisce about it. “It was the best of

been an OEM supplier of solid surface material

times …”

Revolution ended a mere 65 years ago, I will call them “Factory 1.”

For the back story, after Formica closed down its solid surface manufacturing operations in the United States, Factory 1 was its sole supplier of solid surface. The last remaining Formica solid surface factory in the United States was demolished a few years ago. I

Don’t you just love and appreciate when one of those tight, demanding timelines that I call “timelines from purgatory” comes dancing into your life? I seem to get them all the time. I guess I’m fortunate in that respect. “It was the worst of times …” Well, that is a big part of my story as well.

Changing Chemistries

spent a good portion of my life working there

Formica, in a move that was long overdue,

and, quite frankly, I get a little misty-eyed

recently switched its solid surface product

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

and a cell cast operation, it can produce a wide variety of appearances. However, it could not

match the price point of Factory 2, so Factory

1 was relegated from producing a large number of Formica patterns to only handling five, now in acrylic.

So, last year I started working on matching

One of the factories I consult for in China has to Formica since 2005. Because the Chinese

Because Factory 1 has both a continuous line

various Formica colors in acrylic chemistry.

Suppliers in China had to be found for acrylic

resin, promoters and catalysts. I had to develop and optimize the process, then test the material for performance: tensile and flexural properties, stain resistance, boiling water resistance, high temperature resistance, impact strength, light resistance, thermal aging, seamed strength, thermoforming properties, etc.

In late July of this year, Factory 1 was asked

to take on five additional Formica colors that

were going to be sold in Lowes stores: Black

Lava (501B); Sea Glass (505B); Bianco Mineral

(759B); Bottle Glass Quartz (770B); and Copper

Circle RS#24 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

A sheet acrylic “Copper Quartz” compared to a small acrylic standard, which was a challenge to design and manufacture.

Top: Acrylic “Sea Glass” compared to small standard. Bottom left: “Bottle Glass Quartz” polyester standard compared to large acrylic sheet and acrylic standard (small strip on bottom).

A lab sample of “Dali Mineral” compared to a strip cut from a sheet as viewed under CWF lighting (the color looks muted and a lot lighter in sunlight).

Quartz (772B). Factory 1 had produced those

I stayed on-site in China and didn’t leave. I’m

Pacific and being trucked to the warehouse.)

patterns prior to this in a polyester blend material, but had never matched them in acrylic chemistry.

In addition to those five patterns, Formica

asked us to produce a new color called Dali Mineral that had to be designed in acrylic.

most likely still here as you read this.

Meeting the Demand

Formica has very talented, creative and astute designers on staff, but they are “conceptual

designers” who evaluate market trends, decide what’s going to be the hot-selling look for

By August, 42 sheets for samples were air

freighted to a fabricator in order to arrive by September 4 to give that fabricator time to

produce the sample chips/displays and ship

them to Lowes. Formica knew from the outset of the project that was the only way we could make the deadline.

Now I can’t be positive, but I suspect that

the next year and decide upon the type of

colors and the six additional colors because

“design board” that has various items glued to

patterns from both factories were on display at

could not produce it as affordably or could not

glass, turtle shells, sea shells, rocks and

the efforts that went into them from all involved

the finishing capability may have played a role

notes stuck on it. Sometimes they send you

a myriad of individuals working at Formica and

dark patterns.

they are seeking. Sometimes they organize it

cultures, half a world apart. I was proud to be a

When it comes to finishing, Factory 1 normally

form. It’s different every time.

Factory 1 picked up the original five acrylic

look they desire. Sometimes they send you a

By mid-October this year, the Formica acrylic

Factory 2 either could not produce that look,

it: pieces of broken eye glass frames, broken

Lowes. We hope you like them and appreciate

develop/produce the colors as quickly. Also

minerals and all sorts of things including post-it

at both factories. It was a truly labor of love by

in the acquisition of the Black Lava and other

a written story detailing what the type of look

their two OEM factories with vastly different

into a power point or put it into spreadsheet

small part of that effort.

takes its sheets to a 600-grit wet-sanded final finish. However, Factory 2 provides a 220-grit dry-sanded finish (less than a matte finish) for the final product that is not as visually

appealing, especially on darker colors, and

requires the fabricator to do a lot of work to improve it.

Another factor that could have played into

the decision is the desire to avoid keeping all of the company’s eggs in one basket. Many

corporations like to have multiple sources as

a contingency in case one vendor goes out of business, raises pricing or is subject to force majeure (an act of God).

This is where the “timeline from purgatory”

came into play. It was extremely tight, as these colors had to be in stock in the United States and have samples made and in the Lowes

stores by the first or second week in October.

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

One of my current projects for Factory 1’s

I wear many hats (R&D, business development,

Formica acrylic solid surface material is

deemed a “materials designer,” which is the

savings and enhanced performance. But that is

marketing, operations, etc.) but I’m also

manufacturing my own acrylic resin for cost

“boots on the ground” person who turns those

a story for another day, so I will just say, as the

concepts into reality. It required long days (10 to 12 hours a day) and a lot of work (six or

seven days a week). I didn’t get a lot of rest

and skipped many meals. However, I matched

each color in an acrylic resin/ATH background, and overnighted samples for approval to

Formica who signed and dated the standards and couriered them back. Most took several iterations.

Factory 1 ultimately made timeline and had

the initial orders manufactured and shipped out on a container by the end of August.

(They had to be out that much ahead of the deadline because the containers spend as

long as a month getting to port, traversing the

radio announcers used to say back in simpler times, “Stay tuned and don’t touch that dial.”

About the Author Leonard R. Elbon, owner of LCI, “Decorative Surfacing Industry Consultants,” has worked on projects in 17 different countries over the past decade. He wears many hats including those of a trouble shooter and problem solver, speaker at trade shows, published author and inventor of award-winning surfacing products. He has been granted 10 patents and has two additional patents in the application process. He can be reached at bashibainc@yahoo.com.

Circle RS#25 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Here.Now.News.

New Faces at ISFA With the new year approaching, ISFA has seen some changes and additions to its staff and leadership roles. The changes are expected

to be positive ones that allow the organization to better focus on member and programming development. Additionally, Carol Wilhite

was promoted to the position of Operations Manager.

She will be in the main ISFA office three days a week (Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays) and will assist with updating website content and social media outlets; contacting members for renewals and sending out membership certificate and packets; sending program certificates and managing the paperwork around ISFA’s CEU Program that operates

New Interim ISFA Director ISFA announced at the end of October

that it had appointed

in conjunction with the AIA; and assisting with magazine circulation and contact with members and those requesting magazine subscriptions. “Amy seems very qualified and

Mike Langenderfer

competent to handle these responsibilities,”

Executive Director.

“We feel she will be a great new team member

the ISFA Board

its members.” She can be reached at amy@

as (Interim)

remarked Executive Director Langenderfer.

Mike recently left

and provide real additional value to ISFA and

of Directors after

isfanow.org.

having served two

full terms, including a year as President of the

ISFA Elects New 2016 Board Member Revealed during the

association.

announcement of

Langenderfer replaces Keith Haight, who left

the election results

the organization after filling the role from 2014

at the recent ISFA

through 2015 to pursue other opportunities.

Annual Meeting &

ISFA expresses its thanks to Haight for his work

Conference (see

and wishes him the best moving forward. “Keith has been in the surfacing industry for many

Page 45), ISFA

future,” said 2015 ISFA President Mell Hill.

Kelley Montana to

members elected

years, and we are confident he will have a bright Langenderfer, who has run a successful

countertop fabrication business for many years, began his new role in November.

ISFA Hires New Membership Coordinator Amy Kyriazis is

the Board of Directors. Montana is the secondgeneration business owner of Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing, in Eureka, Calif., having previously spent the last two-and-ahalf years managing it. She took the reins of the business from her father, who started the

now serving as

company more than 30 years ago and she has

Membership

and construction industry. She also has a

Kyriazis has lived

specializing in management, from San Jose

where ISFA is

Surfacing provides laminate, solid surface,

for 19 years and is

Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity Counties in

ISFA’s part-time

10 years of experience in the custom cabinets

Coordinator.

bachelor’s degree in business sdministration,

in Pittsburgh,

State University. Humboldt Countertops &

headquartered,

quartz and stone products to customers in

married with one daughter. She has a degree in business, specifically focusing on human

resources, and has worked in the HR field for more than 10 years. She is also a volunteer

at her church and a fan of outdoor activities.

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

Northern California. She can be reached at kmontana@humtop.com.

For more information on any of these new roles with ISFA, please email info@isfanow.org.

Upcoming ISFA Training & Events

For more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, call (412) 487-3207 or email gatherings@isfanow.org.

Cosentino/ISFA/NKBA Event Hosted at the Cosentino KBIS Booth #N2149 Jan. 29 (at KBIS) Las Vegas ISFA Total Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone March 1 – 4 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA Senior Management Conference March 10 – 11 Nashville, Tenn.

ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar April 7 – 8 St. Louis, Mo. ISFA Transition: Generation 2 Workshop April 28 – 29 Toledo, Ohio ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 17 – 20 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA/IWF Countertop Symposium Aug. 23 Atlanta, Ga. ISFA Senior Management Conference Sept. 14 – 15 New York, N.Y. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 27 – 30 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar Oct. 6 – 7 Southern California

ISFANews The ISFA

Annual Meeting & Conference

On Nov. 4 and 5 ISFA held its Annual Meeting

The session was followed by lunch catered by the

a conference portion. With around 75 in

were served while the Annual Meeting portion of

in Austin, Texas, but this year also included

attendance, the event was considered a success (in spite of troubles with flights getting in and out

at the airport) and also a sign that ISFA is growing and validating its purpose as an organization to bring together its members for educational and

networking opportunities that ultimately lead to

Four Seasons. Upscale versions of the local fare

the event took place. At the meeting the election results for the 2016 Board of Directors were

announced along with the Board Members who will be serving as officers.

2016 ISFA Board of Directors

the improvement and profitability of members’

Fabricator Member Directors are chosen by

Cosentino, the Gold Level Sponsor of the event,

with the option to renew for a second consecutive

been possible.

terms, the Board may elect to keep them on for

companies. Special thanks must be given to

association members, for a term of three years,

without whom the event largely would not have

three-year term. Once members have served their

The destination-themed event was conducted at

one additional year.

the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel overlooking

Adam Albee, of Lincoln Laminating in Lincoln,

a sponsor meet-and-greet followed by a cocktail

the ISFA Board of Directors on Jan. 1, 2016.

Company. A gourmet taste of the local cuisine

Countertops in Fairfield, Calif., who now takes on

many of the attendees took the opportunity to

Immediate Past President, Dave Paxton, of Paxton

the city has to offer.

has been elected to serve a final one-year term

The next morning began with a light breakfast

Rounding out the Executive Committee of the

the Colorado River downtown and kicked off with

Neb., will assume the role of President of

party with live music sponsored by the KOHLER

Albee replaces Mell Hill, of Duracite Custom

was included and after the party wound down,

the role of Immediate Past President. The former

enjoy the night life and the variety of live music

Countertops & Showers in Grand Ledge, Mich.,

and additional time for fabricator members to spend with attending Silver Level sponsors (Avonite Surfaces, Alpha Professional Tools, Integra Adhesives, Moraware, Mystera and

SolidSurface.com) and Bronze Level Sponsors

(Colt Industries, GlueBoss, GlueWarehouse.com

and GranQuartz), followed by a break-out session on Eli Goldratt’s Theory of Constraints, presented by expert in the field Ed Hill.

as Director before retiring from the Board in 2017.

Board are Ryan Miller, of VT Industries in Holstein, Iowa, who will serve as Vice President; Erica

Hussey of JCW Countertops in Woburn, Mass.

who will serve as Secretary; and Kate Dillenburg of

Bisley Fabrication in Gresham, Wis., who will serve as Treasurer. Retaining his position as Director

is Mike Woods of Creative Countertop Solutions

in Nashville, Tenn., and joining as a new Director is the previously mentioned Kelley Montana of Humboldt Countertops in Eureka, Calif.

Retaining their positions as Associate Member

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Cosentino, Kohler, Avonite Surfaces, Alpha Professional Tools, Integra Adhesives, Moraware, Mystera, SolidSurface. com, Colt Industries, GlueBoss, GlueWarehouse.com, GranQuartz, CountertopIQ.com, Meganite and Water Treatment Solutions

Representatives on the Board are John Hansen

of the Kohler Company, who via special election was retained for one final year: and Jessica McNaughton of CaraGreen.

2015 ISFA Annual Awards The 2015 ISFA Annual Award winners were

also announced at the annual meeting. These awards are chosen by association members, and given to those in the industry that stand out as the very best.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 45

ISFANews The ISFA Hall of Fame Award is given to the

individual, or individuals, who have in the course of their career made significant contributions

to the decorative surfacing industry, and have demonstrated leadership and commitment to

the ideals of ISFA. This year’s winner was Jon

Forst. As a founding member of ISFA and all the dedication toward developing various programs The ISFA Hall of Fame award goes to Jon Forst.

that help fabricator’s businesses, Jon was the

inspiration behind “The Break Even Point” series of training programs and remains an inspiration to the industry today.

The Fabricator of the Year Award was given to Steve Stoddard of Advanced Surfaces.

This is awarded to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year has best exemplified the ISFA ideals of quality,

looking creator of leading-edge designs and technology.

Once the awards were handed out, a second

seminar, this one put on by Andrea Chapman of Suitable Solutions, was put on. She spoke on a variety of ways for improving surfacing businesses, with a particular focus on

understanding the available methodologies and technologies for doing so.

After the session ended, attendees were

given a couple of hours to enjoy the local scenery before being treated to a dinner

featuring some of the finest cuisine Austin has to offer where ideas and information

could be exchanged between attendees in a comfortable atmosphere.

innovation, character and service to ISFA The Fabricator of the Year Award winner, Steve Stoddard.

and/or the decorative surfacing industry, with overall excellence. Stoddard, an early and

consistent member and supporter of ISFA and the decorative surfacing industry, has been a

pioneer in industrialized shop processes and the use of CNC technology and equipment.

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.

Colt Industries received The Associate of the Year Award.

This year’s winner is Colt Industries, for being

an early supporter of ISFA and its members and

for recently hosting the tremendously successful

event, the industry or just life in general.

The Innovator Award is for the fabricator

So much so that plans are already in the works

enhances the life or elevates the role of

the surface fabricator. The winner for 2015

was ASST in Hannover, Pa., for creating an

innovative 21-step system for tracking projects,

positive and the event was deemed a success. for the 2016 Annual Meeting & Conference,

which will once again be a destination-themed

event, but this time expanded a day and located in Cancun, Mexico.

thus allowing companies to stay on task

More details on the

Effective Commercial Business Program.

2016 ISFA Annual Meeting &

and budget. This system became part of the The Envision Award is given to the ISFA

Conference are available

associate member firm or individual that

on the ISFA website at

special for the surfacing industry. The winner

www.ISFAnow.org and

excels in creating something imaginative and for 2015 was Cosentino. A leading developer

discounted early-bird

from quartz surfacing to ultra-compact sintered

registration is already open.

of numerous engineered surfacing products

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

ISFA members shared their thoughts on the

Overall, feedback from attendees was decidedly

the box to create a product or system that

Cosentino received The Envision Award.

gathering around a fire pit at the hotel in which

ISFA Effective Commercial Business Program. member firm or individual who goes outside

The Innovator Award went to ASST.

Once the event ended, there was an impromptu

surface technology, this company is a forward-

ISFANews ISFA Board of Directors

ISFA Launches New ‘ISFA on Demand’ Training Program The International Surface Fabricators

Association (ISFA) has launched a new “ISFA on Demand” training program, in which a

certified ISFA trainer will travel to facilities to train on-site personnel in solid surface

fabrication. The training will be performed

using the client company’s own equipment and supplies, so that those being trained

will be shown fabrication processes on the very machinery they will be using in actual production.

Mell Hill President Duracite Custom Countertops 2100 Huntington Blvd.

Fairfield, CA 94533 Phone: (707) 290-6386 mhill@duracite.com www.duracite.com

Ryan Miller Secretary VT Stone Surfaces 1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 Phone: (712) 368-4381, ext. 236 RMiller@vtindustries.com www.vtstonesurfaces.com

Kate Dillenburg Director Bisley Fabrication 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 Phone: (715) 787-4410 kbisley@bisfab.com www.bisfab.com

Dave Paxton Immediate Past President Paxton Countertops and Showers PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 Phone: (517) 719-0146 paxtoncountertops@ yahoo.com

Erica Hussey Treasurer JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 Phone: (781) 935-1907 ericamaria@jcwcounter tops.com. www.jcwcountertops.com

John Hansen Associate Member Representative Kohler 3721 Armstrong Dr. Ste. 2B Bloomington, IL 61704 Phone: (920) 207-7701 John.Hansen@kohler.com www.kohler.com

Adam Albee Vice President Lincoln Laminating 5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 Phone: (402) 434-6009 adam@lincolnlaminating.com www.lincolnlaminating.com

Mike Woods Director Creative Countertop Solutions 919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 (615) 915-0718 mike@tnccs.com www.creativecounter solutions.com

Jessica McNaughton Associate Member Representative CaraGreen 109A Brewer Ln. Carrboro, NC 27607 Phone: (919) 929-3009 Jessica@caragreen.com www.caragreen.com

While the on-site program currently only covers solid surface training, expansion

into quartz/stone training, business training and shop optimization is being planned.

Companies that sign up for ISFA on Demand training must be members of ISFA or must

sign up for membership prior to training. For

more information or to sign up for this on-site

training, call the ISFA office at (412) 487-3207 or email info@isfanow.org.

ISFA Contacts Main Office 2400 Wildwood Rd. Gibsonia, PA 15044 (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 www.isfanow.org

Communications Director Kevin Cole Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor (815) 721-1507 kevin@isfanow.org

Executive Director Mike Langenderfer (567) 703-9012 mike@isfanow.org

Operations Manager Carol Wilhite (412) 487-3207 carol@isfanow.org

Account Representative Paul Wisnefski (262) 498-4184 wisnefski@sbcglobal.net

Membership Coordinator Amy Kyriazis (412) 487-3207 amy@isfanow.org

Account Representative Dave Lillegaard (815) 621-7293 dave@isfanow.org

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 47

Fabricator Directory ALABAMA

Cutstone Co.

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

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

Surface One

Integra Cabinets & Millwork

ALASKA

Marble Expressions

2421 Hwy. 11 Pelham, AL 35124 205-621-1125 www.surface1.com

Bicknell Inc.

PO Box 33517 Juneau, AK 99801 907-789-5727 www.bicknellinc.com

Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503 907-793-3047 www.cookinlethousing.org

North Coast Countertops 7720 Hacienda Dr. Anchorage, AK 99507 907-727-6419

ARIZONA

Kitchen Bath & Beyond

Specializing In Solid Surface 1440 Corona Ft. Mojave, AZ 86426 928-788-1000

CALIFORNIA

AZ Countertops Inc.

1560 Harris Ct. 1445 S. Hudson Ave. Ontario, CA 91761 909-983-5386 www.azcountertopsinc.com

Design Fabrication Inc.

100 Bosstick Blvd.

San Marco, CA 92069 760-727-1800 www.designfabrication.com

Duracite

2100 Huntington Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533 707-402-1600 www.duracite.com

Finishing Touch Millwork

1280 Activity Dr. Ste. D Vista, CA 92081 858-382-9143 www.ftmillwork.com

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

249 W. Baywood #B Orange, CA 92865 714-283-2890 www.integracmw.com 1573 Seminole St. San Marcos, CA 92708 760-471-8737 www.marbleexpressions.com

Mio Metals

400 Western Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952 888-530-7630 www.miometals.com

Southwest Carpenters Training Fund 533 S. Fremont Ave. #401 Los Angeles, CA 90071 213-739-9343

The Countertop Factory

12349 Telegraph Rd. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net

COLORADO

AAFES Ft. Carson FMO 1510 Chiles Ave. Ft. Carson, CO 80913 719-291-9206

DMS

1620 Paonia St. Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719-574-1250 www.dmscustom.com

CONNECTICUT

Porta Door Co. Inc. 65 Cogwheel Ln. Seymour, CT 06401 203-888-6191 www.portadoor.com

DELAWARE

Florida Custom Surfaces, div. of FDR Contractors Inc. 4362 S.W. Port Way Palm City, FL 34990 772-781-5517 www.floridacustomsurfaces.com

Natural Stone Motif Inc.

870 Sunshine Ln. Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 407-774-0676 www.naturalstonemotif.com

Refresh Interiors Design

4641 Lown St. St. Petersburg, FL 33714 727-527-0206 www.refreshinteriorsdesign.com

Simmons Solid Surface LLC 3428 Bartee Rd. Sebring, FL 33870 863-381-3965 http://cabinetrysebring.com/

Sterling Mfg.

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

Surface Crafters

Top South

830 Pickens Industrial Dr. Marietta, GA 30062 770-422-4009 www.topsouth.com

HAWAII

Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc. 1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775

Solid Surface Technologies

360 Mokauea St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-8677 www.ssthawaii.com

ILLINOIS

Custom Marble Inc.

PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net

Dirk Foster

802 S. 26th St. Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 206-898-8163

711 Commercial Dr. Holly Hill, FL 32117 386-253-0826 www.surface-crafters.com

Knapp Tile and Flooring

Atlanta Kitchen Inc.

Maxwell Counters, Inc.

GEORGIA

196 Rio Circle Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3220 www.atlanta-kitchen.com

Counter Fitters LLC

1026 Lynes Ave. Savannah, GA 31415 912-231-0103 www.counterfitterssav.com

Countersync

2014 Westside Ct. Augusta, GA 30907 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net

Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc. 2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com

105 S. Main Eureka, IL 61530 309-467-9700 www.knapptileandflooring.com PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848

New Age Surfaces 1237 Naperville Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-226-0011

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.

2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com

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

711 Interchange Blvd.

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

Seven Stone

Sprovieri’s Custom Cabinets

Beverin Solid Surface

Stone Center

Stalwart Systems

Troy Granite Inc.

FLORIDA

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

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

1400 W. Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 404-355-3108 www.sevenstone.com 1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com

55 Laura Dr. Addison, IL 60101 630-917-4690 www.sprovieris.com

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

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals.

For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.

Stevens Industries Inc. 704 W. Main St. Teutopolis, IL 62427 217-857-7100 www.stevensind.com

Ultimate Stone Inc.

1445 Tonne Rd. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 847-437-8662 www.ultimatestone.net

Surface Solutions Inc.

MASSACHUSETTS

VT Industries

3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com

323 La Porte Rd. Waterloo, IA 50702 319-287-5056 www.surfacesolutionsia.com 1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com

Jack’s Custom Woodworking/ JCW Countertops

PADCO Countertop Co.

INDIANA

KANSAS

5 Springdale Ave. Canton, MA 02021 781-828-1177 www.padcocountertop.com

501 W. Railroad Ave. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com

5855 S.W. 21st St. Topeka, KS 66604 785-271-8675 www.mycountertopshoppe.com

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

A. I. A. Countertops LLC

Bollock Industries Inc.

900 Farabee Ct. Lafayette, IN 47905 765-448-6000 www.bollockstoptops.com

Hard Surface Fabrications, Inc./Kormax 810 S. Beiger St. Mishawaka, IN 46544 574-259-4843

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.

711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401 812-824-6299 www.rakesolutions.com

M & W Countertops Inc. 11934 Witmer Rd. Grabill, IN 46741 260-627-3636 www.mwcountertops.com

Michiana Laminated Products Inc.

7130 N. 050 E. Howe, IN 46746 260-562-2871 www.michianalaminated.com

IOWA

Custom Countertops & More 1801 E. Oak St. Algona, IA 50511 515-295-4835

Granite Custom Design

2369 Heinz Rd. Unit #J Iowa City, IA 52240 888-452-0714 www.granitecustomdesign.com

Solid Fabrications Inc. 2515 Murray St. Sioux City, IA 51111 712-255-5319 www.solidfab.com

Countertop Shoppe

Parman Brothers LTD

PO Box 7 Johnson, KS 67855 620-492-6882 www.parmanbrothersltd.com

Top Master Inc.

2844 Roe Ln. Kansas City, KS 66103 913-492-3030 www.top-master.com

KENTUCKY

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

Sterling Surfaces

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

TWD Surfaces

MICHIGAN

903 Ingalls Ave. Pascagoula, MS 39567 228-938-6484 www.alexandercounterwrights.com

MISSOURI

Surface Menders

32 Clipper Ln. Kimberling City, MO 65686 417-598-2390 www.surfacemend.com

MONTANA Jim Shreve

PO Box 721 Florence, MT 59833 406-880-3566

PO Box 30254 Billings, MT 59107 406-259-5177 www.woodcollc.com

12855 Fairlane St. Livonia, MI 48150 734-261-3010 www.innovativesurfaceworks.com

1312 Portland Rd. Arundel, ME 04046 207-351-5733 www.thomasandlord.com

Alexander Counterwrights

WoodCo LLC

Blasius Inc.

Bangor Wholesale

Maine Marble & Granite

MISSISSIPPI

821 1st Ave. N.W. Great Falls, MT 59404 406-570-5283

7343 Buell Rd. Vassar, MI 48768 989-871-5000 www.blasiusinc.com

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

119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com

VanSetten Walker Construction Co.

75 Hale St. Bridgewater, MA 02324 508-279-2650 www.twdsurfaces.com

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

MAINE

The Pinske Edge

Innovative Surface Works

Marbelite Corp.

NEBRASKA

Best Quality Countertops 4340 S. 90th St. Omaha, NE 68127 402-670-6338

Builders Warehouse 4600 N. Second Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 308-627-6702

22500 Heslip Dr. Novi, MI 48375 248-348-1900 www.marbelitecorp.com

Marble & Granite, Inc.

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

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

270 University Ave. Westwood, MA 02090 781-407-9560 www.marbleandgranite.com

Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111

MARYLAND

PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146 www.paxtonsurfaces.com

2910 Strickland St. Baltimore, MD 21223 410-233-4900 www.carefreeindustries.com

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc. 6689 Sterling Dr. S. Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-274-9668 www.ssunlimited.net

301B Sunpac Ct. Henderson, NV 89011 702-839-2224 www.thecountertopshopllc.biz

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

Carefree Kitchens Inc.

SolidTops LLC

505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com

NEVADA

Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund Paxton Countertops & Showers 6801 Placid St.

MINNESOTA

Innovative Surfaces Inc. 515 Spiral Blvd.

Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004

The Countertop Shop, LLC

NEW JERSEY

J&M Granite Design LLC 558 Englishtown Rd. Monroe, NJ 08831 908-267-4331 www.jmgranitenj.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 49

Fabricator Directory Marvic Corp.

2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com

Solid Surface Designs Inc. 1651 Sherman Ave. Pennsauken, NJ 08110 856-910-7720 www.ssdtops.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy.

Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com

NEW MEXICO

American Countertops 8013 Edith N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-897-3141

Franken Construction Co. 1201 Tilden Ave. Las Vegas, NM 87701 www.frankenconstruction.com

Jaynes Structures

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

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

Rojo Enterprises LLC PO Box 429 Roswell, NM 88202 505-626-3553

NEW YORK

Busch Products Inc.

110 Baker St. Syracuse, NY 13206 315-474-8422 www.buschproducts.com

Distinctive Granite

331 Dante Ct. Ste. C Holbrook, NY 117411 631-737-3337 www.distinctivegraniteny.com

Evans & Paul LLC

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

Marker Systems Inc.

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

Modern Home Distributing

PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523

Penn Fabricators Inc. 100 Bellport Ave. Yaphank, NY 11980 631-205-0282 www.penn4corian.com

Unico Special Products Inc. 25 Renwick St. Newburgh, NY 12550 845-562-9255 www.unicospecialproducts.com

Wilbedone Inc.

1133 NYS Rte. 222 Cortland, NY 13045 800-734-8813 www.wilbedone.com

NORTH CAROLINA Carolina Counters

13570 Broadway Ave. Midland, NC 28107 704-888-4010 www.carolinacounters.com

Johnson Granite Inc. PO Box 511 589 Hiatt Rd. Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-719-2729

Earth Anatomy Fabrication

PENNSYLVANIA

Granex Industries

805 W. Elm Ave. Hanover, PA 17331 717-630-1251 www.asst.com

4092 Greenwich Rd. Norton, OH 44203 740-244-5316 www.earthanatomy.com

32400 Aurora Rd. Salon, OH 44139 440-248-4915 www.granexindustries.com

Kitchens by Rutenschroer 950 Laidlaw Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45237 513-251-8333 www.kbrmfg.com

Korkan Granite

4561 Crystal Pkwy.

Kent, OH 44240 330-677-1883 www.korkangranite.com

Solid Surfaces Plus

The Countertop Shop LTD 10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net

8350-C Arrowridge Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28273 704-598-1255 www.sevenstone.com

Top Shelf Laminated Products

920 Old Winston Rd. Kernersville, NC 27284 336-773-0714 www.sevenstone.com

PO Box 647 Massillon, OH 44648 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com

OHIO

Bertke Countertops 9355 Amsterdam Rd. Anna, OH 45302 937-538-7024

Cabinets 2 Countertops

7142 Frank Ave. N.W. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-244-0221 www.cabinets2countertops.com

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.

1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com

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

760 N. Front St. PO Box 7616 Steelton, PA 17113 717-939-2878 www.capitalcitycounters.com

Chuck Sawyer

Laminate Shop, Inc.

Premier Plus Inc.

Seven Stone

Capital City Counters Inc.

PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com

1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com

4640 Manufacturing Rd. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-267-7040 www.solidsurfacesplus.com

Seven Stone

130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407 814-663-0369

L. E. Smith Co.

Merge Design Co.

165 Wildwood Ave. Hamlet, NC 28345 910-995-5615 www.premierplusinc.net

Advanced Surfaces Inc.

4802 Au Sable Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 724-612-9768

PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536

3001-103 Spring Forest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27616 919-790-1749 www.mergedesignco.com

A.S.S.T.

400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289

Tower Industries

OKLAHOMA

Hoffman Fixtures Co.

6031 S. 129th St. Ste. B Tulsa, OK 74134 918-252-0451 www.hfccountertops.com

OREGON

Grifform Innovations Inc. PO Box 258 Glide, OR 97443 541-496-0313 www.grifform.com

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

John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.

McGrory Inc.

576 Rosedale Rd. Kennett Square, PA 19349 610-444-1512 www.mcgroryinc.com

Pence Countertops Inc.

124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609 www.pencecountertops.com

RHODE ISLAND

Allied Floor Covering, Inc.

Tiverton, RI 02878 401-624-4477 www.alliedfloorcovveringinc.com

New England Counter Top PO Box F Pawtucket, RI 02861 508-761-7588

SOUTH CAROLINA Seven Stone

1900 Suber Mill Rd. Greer, SC 29650 864-879-9378 www.sevenstone.com

Solid Products

109 Lazenby Dr. Ft. Mill, SC 29715 704-236-9796 www.solidproducts.biz

SOUTH DAKOTA

Dakotaland Woodwork & Cabinets LLC 41181 179th St. Raymond, SD 57258 605-532-4150

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co. 45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com

Formatop Co.

101 S. Franklin Sioux Falls, SD 57103 605-332-3151 www.formatopcompany.com

Tom Rush

109 Lazenby Dr. Ft. Mill, SC 29715 704-236-9796 www.solidproducts.biz

TENNESSEE

Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.

UTAH

BARBADOS

2098 E. 2250 N. Layton, UT 84040 801-814-8847 www.utahkitchenandbath.com

27 Lodge Terrace St. Michaels BB12001 Barbados 246-253-3440

Utah Kitchen and Bath

VIRGINIA

Metro Stone Works LLC

300 Peabody St. Nashville, TN 37210 615-915-0718 www.creativecountersolutions.com

TEXAS

Alejandro Contreras 6418 Harbor Mist Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459 970-471-4393

Classic Counter Tops

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

Counterscapes, Inc. P.O. Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 903-581-5676

Countertop Solutions LLC P.O. Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080

Elite Granite & Marble

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

Seven Stone

740 Space Park Dr. S. Nashville, TN 37211 615-386-0509 www.sevenstone.com

W.R. Watson Inc.

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

CANADA

Colonial Countertops Ltd.

9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com 4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com

PO Box 40 99 Harrison St. Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0 Canada 519-461-0100

Surface Link Corp.

WASHINGTON

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

Mt. Rainer Marble LLC 2606 Jackson Hwy. Chehalisi, WA 98523 360-520-1844 www.mtrainiermarble.com

RD Wing

11809 N.E. 116th St. Kirkland, WA 98034 425-821-7222 www.blimages.com

Synsor Corp.

1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy.

Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604

WISCONSIN

Bisley Fabrication Inc.

700 Industrial St. 455 Commercial Dr. Gresham, WI 54128 Buda, TX 78610 715-787-4410 512-328-5111 www.elitegraniteandmarbleaustin.com www.bisfab.com

Gecko Solid Surface Solutions

Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)

609 Alpha St. Victoria, BC V8Z 1B2 Canada 250-383-1926 http://colonialcountertops.com

1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 TRINDCO Memphis, TN 38114 1004 Obici Industrial Blvd.

901-278-9626 www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com Suffolk, VA 23434 757-539-0262 Creative Countertop www.trindco.com

Solutions Inc.

ITALY

In-Counter, Inc.

McDermott Top Shop LLC 200 A Main St. Sullivan, WI 53178 262-593-2456

Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc.

FloForm Countertops 125 Hamelin St. Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada 204-474-2334 www.floform.com

FloForm Countertops 10-710 Cynthia St. Saskatoon, SK S7l 6A2 Canada 306-665-7733 www.floform.com

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

INDEKO

Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 +52 3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx Boulevard Hacienda Galindo 116 Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230 Mexico 52-4422342743 Svobody St., 29 Moscow Russia 125362 +7(495)782-84-75 http://akrilika.com/en

60th km. Ring Rd. Ste. 4A Moscow Russia +7-485-657-8578 www.artcor.ru

77 Industrielle Stanstead, QC J0B 3E0 Canada 819-564-7111 www.granitdesign.com

DECORA PRO

Turistskaya str., 23/1 St.Petersburg, Russia +7(812)922-50-70 www.decora.pro

Shape Industries

10 McPhillips St. Winnipeb, MB R3E2J7 Canada 204-947-0409 www.shapeinc.com

SINGAPORE

Harvest Building Products PTE LTD

Summum Granit Inc.

460 Principale St. Saint-Sebastien, QC G0Y 1M0 819-625-2333 www.summumgranit.com

CHINA

WYOMING

FRANCE

2104 Fairgrounds Rd. Casper, WY 82604 307-265-7935 www.wyomingbuildingsupply.com

MEXICO

ARTCOR

Granit Design

7 Qutangxia Road, Shinan District Qingdao, Shandong 266002 China 865-328-267-3659 ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com

1st Floor Missirian Bldg.

Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414

AKRILIKA HOLDING

FloForm Countertops

CREA Diffusion

Respond S.A.L.

RUSSIA

Spectrum Surfaces Inc.

Wyoming Building Supply Inc.

LEBANON

Victor Coronado Services

Zhongdi Architecture & Art Solutions Co. Ltd.

812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 920-337-6575

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

148 Tagore Ln. Singapore 656-362-2608 www.hbp.com.sg

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Bond Interiors

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

UNITED KINGDOM Interfab LTD

Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 51

Product News

Integra Adhesives Launches Surface Bonder ULTRA Integra Adhesives launched Surface Bonder ULTRA, a new adhesive made for a wide range of surfaces and applications. The adhesive works in extreme weather conditions, indoors and outdoors and has a high UV resistance, so colors will not fade in the sun, according to the

company. It can be fabricated to provide a honed,

flowing directional

gloss or textured finish during cure, helping to

pattern that

create invisible seams on any surface. With more

is suitable for

than 4,000-psi bond strength, it will bond to

commercial

multiple surfaces, including quartz, natural stone,

and residential

ceramic, ultra-compact materials and glass. It

projects, reports

won’t stain or yellow and and therefore is ideal for

the company.

white material. Offered pre-colored in a 215ml 2:1

It’s available in

cartridge or as a tintable clear adhesive in a quart

10 muted colors:

can, Surface Bonder Ultra is the newest addition

Delphi, Cloudbank,

to Integra’s line of adhesives and accessories.

Magnolia, Natural

Color charts can be downloaded from the

Bridge, Dawn, Dandelion, Pastoral, Loam, Ocean

company’s website or app.

View and Presto.

Circle RS#60 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Samsung Introduces Staron Supreme Solid Surface Collection

Vicostone adds Venatino to Its Marble-look Quartz Collection

Samsung Surfaces introduced its Supreme

new marble-look colors, available now from

Collection solid surface product inspired by

the company’s warehouses in Dallas, Chicago,

nature. The collection features a subtle, free-

Atlanta and Houston. Venatino, the newest

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

Circle RS#61 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Vicostone’s Collection has been updated with

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ISFA Member since 1998

addition, is a

FIMAD has always focused on new technologies,

stylish blacks, subtle earth tones and dramatic,

the company’s

well known in the stone industry for its tooling

15 new exclusive white and gray, high-movement

combination of existing bold Borghini and elegantly subtle

Statuario. The new colors boost the versatility of

the existing collection and offer more choices for interior applications. Manufactured with Italy’s

Breton technology, the new colors possess the essential characteristics that belong to quartz

surfacing such as integral solidity and strength, color durability and lack of porosity.

Circle RS#62 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info .

Lackmond Stone Announces Exclusive North American Partnership with FIMAD

R & D and customized products. FIMAD is

designed for auto-edge machines. Lackmond will also be offering FIMAD’s texturing and antique

tooling as well as bridge saw blades. Lackmond Stone is committed to maintaining the current

distribution model that FIMAD has created in the United States.

Circle RS#63 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

MSI Expands Natural Stone Countertop Collection M S International, Inc., introduced more than 30 new colors to its

natural stone slabs and

countertops collection. The expansion includes unique

Lackmond Stone is now the exclusive supplier

granite slabs, quartzite and marble, increasing

manufacturer of metal and resin bond diamond

patterns. Spanning the color spectrum, these

of products produced by FIMAD, an Italian

tooling for the stone and ceramic industries.

the inventory to over 350 natural stone colors and additions include dazzling whites, cool grays,

exotic stones. Because of their design popularity, marble and granite slabs were included in the expansion.

Circle RS#64 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

GranQuartz Offers Twist Shims for Countertop Leveling Twist Shims, carried by GranQuartz, are a new tool for leveling a

countertop faster and more easily.

This new leveling device allows

fabricators to level countertops from

below with simple adjustments. Once level, the innovative design allows

adhesives to be applied through the twist shim,

ensuring a tight hold. They operate on a three-step process: first is to drill ⅝-in. holes at desired shim locations and drive the Twist Shims through; then

the countertop is placed on the cabinet and level is adjusted from the underside by rotating the Twist

Circle RS#28 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 53

Product News Shims; lastly adhesive is injected through the shim to permanently lock the counter in place.

Circle RS#65 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Countertopbid.com Offers Online Lead Generation and Website Design Countertop Estimating Solutions (CES) provides custom online forms for fabricators that include a countertop calculator, printable project

worksheets, and a granite visualizer that displays

installed countertop colors with cabinet colors and

design comparisons. Online forms include Spanish translation. CES offers free website templates, including a one-page format incorporating its

entire suite of online forms. CES website templates provide users with an engaging experience that

Gluewarehouse.com Offers Sand-It Sanding Discs

GlueBoss Releases StoneBond Acrylic Adhesive

Glue Warehouse now offers Sand-it Sanding

GlueBoss Adhesive Company released its new

Discs, made with high-quality, resinbonded aluminum oxide backed by a strong latex-coated paper suitable for dry sanding applications.

The discs are precision cut for a uniform finish, and utilize a special clog-resistant and flex technology to improve the discs’ longevity and make them suitable for contoured surfaces. The discs come in 5-in.

informs, collects project information, and educates

sticky back or 6-in. hook and loop back in 80

and pricing options. Website services include

two-component acrylic adhesive for stone,

granite, quartz and porcelain. Trademarked as StoneBond® Acrylic Adhesive, the product is

available in standard 250ml and 500ml cartridges in all colors. With its dripless features, simple

cartridge dispensing system and trimmability, it

delivers what stone fabricators have been asking for, according to the company. With this new

adhesive, the activator is pigmented instead of

the resin, so fabricators can be confident when

they see colored adhesive exit the tip of the gun as it is activated.

Circle RS#68 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

potential clients on a variety of countertop surface

to 800 grit. According to the company, they go through rigorous quality control procedures to

Aegis Commerce Solutions Offers BizOps ERP

e-commerce, design and SEO.

ensure optimal performance.

The Aegis Commerce Solutions Business

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

Optimization System (BizOps) is a browser-

based ERP system

tracking, reconciliation, bar code generation and

business process

Circle RS#69 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

designed to provide automation for

the countertop

fabrication and

slab distribution industries. It is designed to

address the full flow of business from the creation

remnant management.

HanStone Quartz Launches Marble-like Cascina Collection

of a quote, conversion to an order, scheduling,

HanStone Quartz

delivery to end consumer. BizOps is currently

Cascina Collection,

inventory control, manufacturing control and

launched its new

integrated with the Sage 50 accounting system.

with four colors in

Integration with QuickBooks Enterprise will

a marble-inspired

be available shortly. Aegis also offers custom

design. The collection includes the colors Classic

business needs. BizOps is also available with

“The new colors warmly recall the natural world

software programming services to address unique Slabsmith integration in which from the purchase order for slabs are synced to Slabsmith for

photo/calibration. Thereafter, the details that are

gathered from the Slabsmith photo technology are synced to the purchase order, including the actual length, width, lot number and unit number. It also offers a number of inventory features including,

Statue, Italian Waves, Serenity and Tranquillity.

AG&M Expands New MetroQuartz Line to 21 Colors Architectural Granite & Marble (AG&M) has established itself in the market with its engineered quartz line, MetroQuartz. Initially launching with

with touches, veining and rich undertones that are

seven colors a few months ago, it has now

patterns and colors in this marble-like series are

palette is contemporary with whites such as Luxe,

and are suitable for any work space, kitchen or

Graphite and Sage Honed; and veined marbles

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irresistibly classic,” reported the company. The

expanded to 21 colors. The MetroQuartz color

described as “glossy, wispy and sophisticated,”

Glacial and Titanium White; grays like Concrete,

bath.

like Calacatta Metro, Toffee and Vogue.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 55

Product News Flatbush, Kensington, Wingate, Williamsburg, Bedford and Canarsie. The collection’s carved patterns are designed by the Ferreira Design Company and incorporate squares and triangles created from organically handdrawn lines and crisp geometric strokes. All

Outwater Plastics Introduces Brite-Lite Sheet System

patterns are available in two scales (small and large) and with single- or double-sided etched patterns plus positive and reverse designs.

Outwater Plastics introduced the Brite-Lite

Standard thicknesses offered are ¼, ⅜ and

Sheet, a self-adhering backing sheet that affixes

½ in., as well as other thicknesses up to 1

Channel and LED Ribbon Strip Lighting to

CARVART Introduces C1 Collection

diffuse consistent backlighting without any

CARVART introduced the C1 Collection of 12

translucent views are offered, and multiple

installation space required in between the

exclusive architectural glass-etched designs

to acrylic or glass surfaces. It is made for use with the company’s L-Task-149 Aluminum

system and the piece to be backlit. It can also be easily removed and repositioned as needed; cut to any size or shape; and is available in 4by 100-ft. rolls or in 4-ft.-sq. sections.

Circle RS#72 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

in. The maximum standard sheet size is 48 by 120 in., but larger sizes are available. Some

offering surfacing for walls, partitions, doors

colors, varying translucencies, reflective views and scalable patterns offer a variety of

and work spaces. They have been named for

additional choices.

Brooklyn neighborhoods near CARVART’S

Circle RS#73 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

urban beginnings: Redhook, Bayridge, Bushwick, Seagate, Greenpoint, Midwood,

ISFA Member since 2013

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Free Product Information Form Or visit www.ISFANow.org/info to fill out our online form

Main: (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.ISFANow.org • 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044

Volume 8 / Issue 4 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 (editor@isfanow.org) or visit us online at www.ISFAnow.org/info.

Personal Information Name: Title: Company: Address: City: State/Province: Zip/Postal Code: Country: Phone: Fax: y providing your fax number, you are giving ISFA permission to send you information via fax. q Check here if you do not wish to receive education event information via fax.

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About Your Business What category best describes your business classification? q Fabricator

q Manufacturer

q Raw Materials Supplier

q Woodworker/Cabinetmaker

q Builder/Remodeler

q Architect

q Distributor/Manufacturer of Sheet/Slab q Other (please specify) ________________________

Which one category best describes your job title/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 Personnel q 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.

C01 Abrasives

C12 Sealers/Polishes

C02 Adhesives

C13 Seaming Equipment

C03 Air Quality Equipment

C14 Sinks

C04 CNC Machinery C05 Concrete Materials & Supplies C06 Hand/Power Tools C07 Laminate C08 Material Handling Equipment C09 Prefabricated Accessories C10 Quartz Surfacing C11 Saws

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

C15 Software

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56

C17 Stone

57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64

C19 Tooling

65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

C21 Waterjet Equipment

73

C16 Solid Surface C18 Templating Equipment C20 Training

C22 Other Materials

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 8 / Issue 4 • 57

Classifieds Recharge Your Website

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Free! Countertop Website Templates Choose from a variety of dynamic templates that include the entire suite of CES online services.

$99 Website Setup Visit Us Online: www.countertopbid.com 10% Off All Services – Coupon Code: ISFA10

New! One Page Websites - $9.95/mo - $0 Setup

Quality Stone Fabricator Needed

We are currently accepting applications for individuals interested in joining a staff of highly motivated and quality oriented people for the stone fabrication sector of our company. The ideal individual would have at least five years of experience, be able to template, layout, cut, profile, install, as well as possibly manage employees, customers, and time. They must be professional, selfmotivated, have leadership skills, and be unwavering in wanting to excel at their trade.

These positions demand that the candidate be a detail oriented person that strives only for perfection. Please send your information with prior experience and references to: Allied Floor Covering, Inc. 325 Main Road Tiverton, RI 02878 401-624-4477 jobs@alliedfloorcoveringinc.com

Fabricators!

ISFA Fabricators, do you have

used equipment you would like to sell? Looking to fill a key position?

Why not submit a FREE classified ad? That’s right, relevant classifieds in this publication are free to ISFA

fabricator members! Just send us

the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest.

Email us today at editor@isfanow.org.

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

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

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Ad Index Referral # Page # 03 BACA 5 31 Beckart Environmental, Inc. 55 29 Betterley Industries, Inc. 54 30 Better Vacuum Cups 55 25 BLANCO 16 20 Chemcore 14 12 Chemical Concepts 18 04 Cosentino 7 33 CountertopResource.com 56 20 ETemplate Systems 34 34 GlueWarehouse.com 59 26 Hi Tech Fasteners 52 11 Houzer 17 35 Integra Adhesives 60 17 ISFA Training 27, 33 & 43 06 ISFA Membership 10 & 15 01 ITW Polymers Sealants

North America 2 24 IWF 41 18 Karran USA 29 21 KRION 35 & 56 13 Laser Products 19 07 Matrix Stone 11 02 MSI 3 05 Park Industries 9 18 Performance Abrasives 52 11 QuartzSource 12 09 Regent Stone 13 21 Tenax 21 23 TISE 39 28 Water Treatment Solutions 53 22 WEHA 37

Circle RS#34 on the Reader Service Page or go to www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2010

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ISFA Member since 2003