Discovering Stone Issue 34 | April 2019

ISSUE 34 . APRIL 2019

SEALANTS GUIDE 2019 THE INTERNATIONAL SURFACE EVENT 2019 ENGINEERED STONE PROJECTS

ENS

DESIGN S U P P LY I N S TA L L

www.euronaturalstone.com

GO BEYOND WITH

THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS

MACHINERY | TOOLS & EQUIPMENT | SERVICE NATURAL STONE | NEOLITH | STONE CARE

Natural Stone Neolith + Northstone Machinery

Tools + Equipment

Finance

Planning + Installation

Software + Automation

Service + Support

Connect with CDK Stone at:

www.cdkstone.co

om.au

Quality and Service For over 35 years, CDK Stone has been building trust. From selecting your stone masterpiece to supplying the industry with the largest range of stone processing tools and machinery, CDK Stone is your trusted partner.

We pride ourselves on our dedication to you.

Our commitment is what our customers trust. The trust in knowing that we are your first call. Whether you need advice or need a business solution, we have a range of dedicated specialists you can call first.

James Woodyatt

Jonathan Height

Joint Managing Directors

Transforming imagination into functionality, Neolith’s sintered stone is available in a wide range of styles and textures. Neolith is scratch, stain and heat resistant, making it suitable for the most demanding domestic and commercial applications both indoors and out.

Pushing the boundaries of design, Neolith’s adaptability and wide range of styles makes it ideal for furniture, shop fitouts, kitchen and bathroom designs.

To stock this extraordinary sintered stone contact CDK Stone or for more information visit www.neolith.com.au

NEOLITH BETON | FEATURE WALL + FLOOR | ARCHITECTURE BY WORKROOM

Blanco Carrara

Calacatta

VIC 03 8552 6000

Estatuario

VIC Showroom 03 8552 6090

Strata Argentum

NSW 02 9822 5155

W www.cdkstone.com.au

Concrete Taupe

NSW Showroom 02 9822 5910

E info@cdkstone.com.au

Krater

Zaha Stone

QLD 07 5537 3222 cdkstone

SA 08 8340 2877

Aspen Grey

WA 08 6240 2200

EDITOR’S NOTE

The Discovering Stone team visited The International Surface Event in Las Vegas, Nevada (USA) for the second year in a row. This time, we met up with a familiar face from the Australian stone industry, CDK Stone joint managing director James Woodyatt. His perspective on the event can be found on page 11.

Not long after our return from the Las Vegas, the team attended CDK’s annual Open House event at its Moorebank (NSW) location. It is a showcase for company’s extensive range of machinery, tools and equipment from international suppliers, many who travelled far to participate at the event.

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SHOW REPORT 8

INDUSTRY ROUNDUP 14

This edition includes our special feature on the sealant category and the leading suppliers who showcase their products.

The feature begins on page 18.

The Australian Stone Advisory Association gets the opportunity to thank Tony Stock for his past leadership and contributions. Peter Mitchelhill and David West from the association put down their thoughts on page 42.

We also learn more about Euro Natural Stone, the company behind the front cover, on page 38 and Headland Machinery talks to one of its customers on page 44.

This edition is also about engineered stone. You can read about the latest projects and products starting on page 50.

Discovering Stone travelled to Las Vegas to attend StonExpo/ Marmomac at The International Surface Event.

Stone Doctor has expanded into consultancy services, and CDK Stone holds its annual Open House event in Sydney.

ASAA 42

SPECIAL FEATURE: SEALANTS 18

The latest developments in the sealant category and profiles of major suppliers to the Australian market.

MACHINERY 44

PROFILE 38

Euro Natural Stone discusses what makes them different compared to other stone companies.

The Australian Stone Advisory Association says thank you to industry stalwart, Tony Stock.

Headland Machinery Q&A, and Biesse Group launches its Sydneybased campus.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 48

Cotto d’Este covers Siemens’ headquarters in Milan, Italy.

ENGINEERED STONE

Until next time,

50

Betty Tanddo Editor, Discovering Stone Magazine

ON THE COVER: Fully book-matched Manyana limestone showcases the outstanding beauty and elegance of natural stone in this bathroom project by Euro Natural Stone.

Products and projects from Caesarstone and Cosentino.

READ ON THE GO: Scan code to view the latest FREE digital versions of the magazine on our website. Simply click on the front cover once you have scanned the code.

SHOW REPORT

Attendees came from 77 countries and from every corner of North America, according event organiser Informa

Surfaces event encourages engagement Stone, tile and flooring professionals make the trek to The International Surface Event 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada (USA).

T

he annual gathering of surface industry professionals happened once again in Las Vegas at The International Surface Event (TISE) or known as Surfaces, a trade show co-located with StonExpo/ Marmomac and TileExpo.

Mandalay Bay Convention Center is a 93,000sqm facility that hosts the Surfaces event. Over 800 companies – 135 were new to the show – presented their products.

It’s an event conducted on a scale unlike most trade shows in Australia.

According to organisers, Informa Exhibitions: “Attendees came from 77 countries and from every corner of North America to buy, source, network, and discover what is new, needed, and up-and-coming for their businesses”.

A major benefit of attending live markets is being able to catchup and network with business acquaintances, old and new. As with most major trade events, it presents an opportunity to conduct face-to-face meetings with key and potential customers and see the latest products first hand.

StonExpo/Marmomac at Surfaces

is considered a serious stone event for industry professionals in North America. It is endorsed by the USbased Natural Stone Institute through its involvement and sponsorship.

The Institute’s booth at Surfaces is a central location for members to gather and each year, it offers a full day Accreditation Immersion Class available to fabricators and installers.

During the course, participants are able to fill out the accreditation application and take the exam.

In addition to Institute specific programs, it is part of the StoneExpo/ Marmomac education committee.

Its goal is to create a comprehensive educational program for stone industry professionals. It reviews business planning, stone industry sales and technical training.

The Institute also holds its annual awards ceremony to recognise winners of the Pinnacle and Grande Pinnacle Award, Migliore Award for Lifetime Achievement, Women in Stone Pioneer Award and Craftsman of the Year Award. Two scholarships are also granted, the Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship and the Natural Stone Scholarship.

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Marmomac is the event partner of StonExpo/Marmomac, and represents the global showcase of stone materials and machinery held annually in Verona, Italy. The Marmomac International Pavilion showcases stone and stone supplies from countries such as Canada, India, Italy, Turkey and Portugal.

Education and demos Surfaces has its own education program that begins a day before the trade exhibits are open. This year, it launched CONVERGE which “offers the industry a new way to gain training, knowledge, and information”. The program was reconfigured into three targeted persona-based interest groups: Creatives, Suits and Hammer + Nails.

With its flexible scheduling to give participants time to see exhibits and attend other events, the CONVERGE program came about after feedback and is designed for “immersive, targeted discussions”.

Participants also had the flexibility to pass freely between sessions to gain the type of knowledge needed.

Left from top: CONVERGE is an education program launched at Surfaces 2019 The product demonstration stage at the Design + Installation Showcase Hub (DISH) Right from top: The SOPHIA IoT is Intermac’s cloud-based software management tool Roberto Vianello, business service manager and sales director for Intermac’s stone division Bottom: The Marmomac International Pavilion showcases stone and stone supplies from countries

Technical topics included “Moisture Mitigation Roundtable” and “The Ways of Water: Critical Considerations for Shower Construction”. Design-centric, forecasting sessions had topics such as “Colour Vibes: A Journey Through Colour and Trends” and “The Power of 5: The 5 Hottest Trends in Flooring & The 5 Types of People Buying Them”.

Surfaces 2019 also had the Product Demo Stage at The Design + Installation Showcase Hub (DISH), located on the show floor. Mapei USA and building materials company USG offered daily demonstrations each hour, covering topics from shower and floor prep to installing floors in a flash. Participating companies at The DISH were Custom Building Products, DriTac Flooring Products, Johns Manville, Merkrete/Parex and DryTile North America.

He explained how the new Master One CNC router can transform the workflow in all kinds of shops. It is designed for processing natural and engineered stone as well as ceramic materials. It works with Master Loader, a robotic arm designed and built to optimise all loading and unloading times for work centres and water-jet machines. It also offers the advantage of EasySTONE by DDX, a new CAD/CAM software option that offers seamless integration between the whole Master CNC router series and Donatoni’s CNC bridge saws. With one software package, countertop fabricators and stone shops will be able to program both the cutting machine and the profiling machine from the office.

Intermac The amiable and charismatic Roberto Vianello who is BSM (business service manager) and sales director for Intermac’s stone division showed the Discovering Stone team around the stand.

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Two Montresor machines were showcased at the stand, along with vertical edge polishers, Vela and Luna.

The SOPHIA IoT is Intermac’s cloudbased software management tool that provides an easy-to-use dashboard containing real-time visibility of machine status, performance and functionality. It is fully integrated with Intermac’s new PARTS portal, which gives customers the ability to purchase parts, check availability and track purchases online 24/7.

Left: Peter Hauser, Diamut’s brand sales manager – stone division Below: Natural stone is part of the large Daltile presence at Surfaces Bottom: Breton sold a Genya 600 machine at TISE 2019

This year, Intermac won a Best Product Award for its SOPHIA IoT platform, from the Surfaces organisers.

Diamut As part of Intermac’s presence at TISE, machine tool company Diamut demonstrated its ultra-fast HYS T33 R3 80-series tooling on Intermac’s Master One CNC. The proximity of the two company stands allowed visitors to experience

firsthand just how fast five these diamond tools and one polish tool are capable of running while maintaining quality.

Diamut also demonstrated bridge saw tooling on the Donatoni Jet. Visitors saw blades and reverse thread tooling such as incremental step cutting bits. For edge polishing, it displayed tooling ranging from diamond wheels to polishing pads.

Before the show started, Peter Hauser, Diamut’s brand sales manager – stone division, said: “[Surfaces] is a great opportunity for show visitors to sit down with us, get their questions answered, and even talk with us about special projects they might have on the horizon, so we can brainstorm solutions together”.

Breton The Genya was front and centre at the Breton stand. According to Colin Oakey, sales manager at Breton Australia, the company recently launched the Genya 600, a new fiveaxis bridge saw. The machine is ideal for end-users looking to upgrade or replace an old saw.

Colin believes it offers good value for money because it has all the following specifications: Siemens 840 SL Computer Numerical Control (CNC), large work bench measuring 3.7 x 2.4 metres, hydraulic tilting table with rubber surface, suction cup system for cut-piece handling (even 40mm strips), powerful 13Kw spindle 5000rpm, fixed camera for slab image, touch probe measuring the slab thickness, and a blade diameter sensor.

Farnese The Farnese stand at Surfaces showed off the Marc5, among other models.

The Marc5 is the new breed of 5-axis bridge saws for the stone industry that has a full CNC controller coupled with the easy-to-use front-end program.

The machine’s head/blade can rotate around the full 360º so the operator can make angled and circular cuts, as well as tilting from 90º to 0º for drop in sink work. Its CNC “brain” allows the operator to use the machine in four different modes: manual, parametric, semi auto and full auto.

In manual mode, the user can operate the machine to cut at any angle across the table in any direction. In automatic modes, the Marc5 will make a cut in any direction, as well as curves and circles.

DXF files can be imported and programmed which makes the machine compatible with most digital templating machines currently in the marketplace. The spindle has a 1/2” GAS attachment that allows it to fit a drill, which can be programmed to drill out the corners of internal cut outs for the simple removal of internal pieces.

The machine is also fitted with a tilting table that can be used from the front panel. Its monolithic design is an effective space saver with no compromise in the “full slab cutting” sizes.

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Laticrete The STONETECH® range along with SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Translucent Grout, MUTLIMAX™ LITE mortar, HYDRO BAN® Cementitious Waterproofing Membrane and VAPOR BAN™ Primer ER were specially featured at the Laticrete stand this year.

Laticrete’s Permacolor Select was also showcased. It is a crack-resistant cement grout designed to withstand extreme environments, suitable for residential and commercial installations. It has enhanced stain resistance and equipped with STONETECH sealer technology so no sealing is required. According to the company, it has vibrant consistent colour and resists efflorescence. The grout simply needs to be mixed with water and can be placed in three hours.

13

Top: The view from the back of Farnese’s Marc5

Below: Permacolor Select was showcased at the Laticrete stand

Above: The Laser Products stand at Surfaces

Laser Products Industries At the Laser Products stand, the company introduced ClearCut, an optical tool measuring system that easily captures images of tool sets directly on the CNC machine and recalibrates them for optimal performance. Compact and lightweight, it operates directly on the CNC, analysing both tool and spindle performance.

ClearCut can help fabricators extend the life of their tools, optimise tool presets, and increase CNC efficiency.

The LD-2D3D Templator is an accurate, reliable laser measuring tool designed to increase efficiencies.

Featuring an interactive table, it can take minutes to template a new project and is accurate to one millimetre. In three simple steps, users can document and measure, add in details and complete the template, which can upload directly to CAM software. With a range of over five metres, this device is made from impact resistant, aircraft grade aluminium.

Laser Products has also just launched its new website, featuring product videos, technical guides and in-depth tutorials. The online presence is part of a larger service offering the company is providing for its US-based customers that includes specialised training and support services. This initiative is expected to have benefits for the Australian market. Laser Products is distributed through CDK Stone in Australia.

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Bottom: The Laticrete team held live demonstrations from the stand

James Woodyatt, CDK Stone Discovering Stone met up with CDK’s joint managing director, James Woodyatt while attending Surfaces in Las Vegas. He discusses the event from a stone industry perspective, and spoke to editor, Betty Tanddo.

DS: How long have you been coming to Surfaces?

JW: This is my fifth time coming here. Jonathan (Height, CDK’s other joint managing director) made a trip five or six years ago to the Stone Expo at Surfaces to meet up with some of our machinery suppliers. And he figured out that it’s actually really good for us to come here.

The main show is in Verona, Italy (Marmomac). All of our suppliers are there but they’re also so busy because people come to see them from all over the world so it’s difficult to meet with them. And when you do, it’s so loud and difficult to hear at the show. Most of our key machinery suppliers are here at Surfaces, as well as our US-based tools and equipment suppliers. A lot of our European suppliers come here too but because they are guests and not running the show, we can have proper discussions with them.

And in Verona it’s four nights and about 20 different companies that we want to have dinner with. Coming out here, we also have four or five nights but it’s a much quieter and we can spend quality time with them.

DS: I can see how you benefit from coming here.

Have you seen any differences from previous shows?

JW: It’s busier. I didn’t come to the Stone Expo last year, I went to Coverings. My last Stone Expo was 2017 and I’d say in 2017, 2016 and 2015 it was really quiet. Whereas from day one this year, I felt it has been packed and busy with people everywhere … The guys (exhibitors) I’ve been talking to also said it’s been a good show with lots of inquiries and leads. One guy mentioned he has as many good leads from this show as from Verona so that’s great … I think last year there was a lot of capital investment in the US and this year there is going to be a lot of flow on from that.

DS: How do you see the Australian industry at the moment?

JW: I think it is being shaped by the silicosis issue.

There has been the big drive towards automation and highly efficient plants over the last ten years. But this year, people have been focused on the silicosis issue and some of the finer points of that. Like eliminating any on-site work or dry processing. Making sure everything just comes off the machine ready to install.

That means you’ve got to have really good processes, from templating because if you don’t template properly then your final product is not going to fit without some modification. Accurate templating flows through to the shop drawings that are production. Getting as many people off the factory floor as possible is important.

Because the best way to combat silicosis is to prevent it.

DS: That’s a major shift because it impacts on all traditional processes.

JW: The whole business model is changing. From production to the way people transport the jobs to site.

DS: That will transform industry because everyone has to change what they do.

JW: In the long run, it will be good for the industry.

CDK Stone joint managing director, James Woodyatt

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Getting to know Las Vegas On the second trip to Las Vegas, it seems like it is a city that never says “no”, but says “maybe” quite a bit. And “maybe” translates to “yes, but it’s going to cost you”.

Take our hotel, for example, which is located on “The Strip”. “The Strip”, the guidebooks tell us, is a dense collection of casinos and “resort” hotels along 6.8km of South Las Vegas Boulevard (and, interestingly, is not technically in Las Vegas). Our hotel prided itself on being one of the cheapest on “The Strip” because it lacked a few room amenities that most business travellers take for granted like bar fridges and a kettle for making coffee. When asked about this, the hotel concierge explained these had been eliminated for our convenience, as this made the rooms cheaper — though we could get them for a fee.

Being a visitor on The Strip can also incur a tourist tax for meals. We found out about this because at one restaurant they mistook us for locals for about two minutes — I put it down to our general air of exhaustion, and our priority in alcohol over food. If you are a tourist in town, you automatically pay 20% more than locals do, on The Strip.

The other thing we noted was that the relationship to technology seemed a little awkward. Imagine Frank Sinatra with a Twitter account, and you get the idea.

The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas celebrated the Year of the Pig with a stunning Lunar New Year display

Our first brush with this earnest awkwardness was trying, at the Surfaces event, to find the Media Room for journalists and editors where they can work — and, more importantly, score some free food at lunchtime.

But we could find no mention of the Media Room, common to most trade events.

Eventually, we asked someone — who directed us to the “Influencer Suite”. Because they wouldn’t want bloggers, Instagrammers and Facebookers to feel they were somehow unworthy amateurs amongst the people of the traditional press.

But we joke. The reality was that, having been to Las Vegas before, we found ourselves constantly trying to find hints to the real city beneath the tourist city. We didn’t quite get there this time, but we did get some clues to the sort of things that the hardworking crew who keep the tinsel polished gets up to when they aren’t at work.

The people we met were friendly, warm, and always professional. This is a relief in a city when the freewheeling, easy-spending casino culture can feel a bit relentless.

This trip was filled with typical activities associated with Las Vegas: some gambling, seeing a show (Human Nature – Jukebox) and a bit of shopping. But a colourful highlight was seeing the spectacular Lunar New Year display at the Bellagio hotel that was accessible for everyone. A genuine cultural exhibit that was free for all.

Happy Hour margaritas were important to (l&r)) Sandie Velkovska and Betty Tanddo who travelled to Las Vegas on behalf of Discovering Stone magazine

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Locating Happy Hour (half priced) drinks (mainly margaritas) and food became very important as the Australian currency lost a lot of value against the American dollar during our stay. Serious retail therapy was not really an option. And as part of trying to keep our costs down, we also discovered the importance of having correct change when riding a public bus in Las Vegas.

We hope to visit again soon.

It claims to be the industry’s first dispersible dry pigment solution and separates the coloured pigment from the base. Each colour kit contains two colour “packets”. Customers are able to select the size and colour while eliminating excess inventory cost and space for retailers. Store owners only need to carry the inventory they need. The Permacolor colour kits also allows retailers to stock all 40 Laticrete colours as well as other popular competitor colours.

Mapei Mapei North America maintained its strong presence at the 2019 Surfaces event. This year, marketing manager Yoanna Pergantis and Princess Pitts from corporate communications gave the Discovering Stone team a guided tour of the stand. “The International Surfaces Event is an effective networking ground for us. In addition to welcoming many of our customers to our space, TISE also serves as a meeting ground to exchange face-toface with a number of international colleagues,” said Yoanna.

“The Mapei brand is well known in the industry and our products are distributed widely throughout North America, as well as the rest of the world. We are not necessarily looking for sale leads per se at this event, but rather, we use our time and space to share our latest product developments and technologies.

In order to achieve this, we give a

l&r: Mapei marketing manager Yoanna Pergantis and Princess Pitts (corporate communications)

number of product demonstrations each day and have a full team of people on-site available to answer questions. In addition, we also typically participate in technical training seminars for professionals seeking credits towards their continuing education requirements.”

Integra Adhesives Integra presented its new surface bonder at the tradeshow. Surface Bonder Zero is a non-sagging adhesive specifically designed for natural stone and quartz-based products. As a nonsage product, Surface Bonder Zero is ideal for mitred edges and seaming joints. The adhesive stays right where the user puts it. Alongside this, it is suitable for vertical applications such as wall cladding, facades or cabinetry.

Packaged in Integra’s cartridge system, Surface Bonder Zero is available in a 250ml 10:1 cartridge and is compatible with any 250ml dispenser. The product also comes in 45 different colour options and can be colour matched to a very large range of surfaces. The company said it is the latest advancement in surface bonding. The range of products from Integra Adhesives is available through CDK Stone in Australia.

Sika Many products from the Sika family of bonding products were present at the Surfaces event. Brady Gunn, sales representative – interior finishing and Andre Eisenmann, marketing

co-ordinator – interior finishing showed the Discovering Stone team around the stand.

When asked whether the event has been effective for the company, Andre said: “If I had to rank the show out of ten, I would say effectiveness was around a six out of ten. This show was great for sales leads and public relations. More importantly it was a good opportunity to meet with other companies … and plan future meetings with current and potential customers that you may not find gathered on one place like TISE platform provides.” Sika has been exhibiting at Surfaces from 2015, according to Eisenmann.

Brady Gunn, sales representative – interior finishing at the Sika stand

Save the date: The International Surface Event will be held 28-30 January 2020 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas (USA)

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INDUSTRY ROUNDUP

Stone Doctor launches consultancy Specialists in stone and tile care, Stone Doctor has expanded its business and launched a consultancy service called Stone Consultants Australia. Founder and principal consultant Simon Gabriel believes consumers of natural stone face common, recurring issues relating to selecting, procuring, fabricating, installing and maintaining these surfaces.

For example, incorrect decisions resulting from inaccurate advice resulting in unsuitable natural stone selection. These choices can be based mostly on aesthetics or emotional needs and the selected stone may not be suited for its application. Simon also believes there is a tendency towards inferior grades.

There can be improper handling of natural stone from the time it is manufactured and shipped to untrained tradespeople working with it on-site, and the material is left to idle in external conditions.

Poor installation practices can occur when preparation of sub-surfaces are not done properly, the wrong choice of installation consumables is made, underestimating the porosity of

materials, and when options for presealing are not considered.

Temporary protection may not be implemented after installation so that stone surfaces are scratched, chipped, etched or cracked during construction.

Incorrect cleaning products and techniques can also leave potentially damaging effects on natural stone.

At the same time, the application and choice of the wrong type of sealers can permanently damage natural stone surfaces. Guidelines on maintenance and after-care of stone surfaces are generally not provided by suppliers or contractors.

Stone Consultants Australia is offering a solution to eliminating or mitigating risks associated with these common issues with natural stone. It says its extensive industry experience and expertise can provide impartial and independent advice, as well as end-to-end project management with specialised trades for installation. It has buying power and deals directly with overseas stone producers and local importers along with continuity and after-care services.

It believes it is best suited to collaborate with architects, builders, interior decorators and home owners.

The consulting services can range from one module to full project management (turn key solutions) and quality control throughout the procurement cycle. To find out more, please visit the Stone Consultants Australia website.

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Demos take centre stage at CDK CDK Stone has evolved its highly regarded Open House event by introducing a large scale, video presentation stage. The company’s investment in the stage allowed for more practical demonstrations to given and the enormous screen meant that images from the live demonstrations could be beamed out to the audience.

“This area saw on-stage demonstrations from suppliers, presentations and industry discussions. They were well received by attendees, who especially enjoyed the video element and live demonstrations of the tools,” said CDK Stone’s joint managing director, Jonathan Height.

Every year, the company showcases its extensive range of machinery, tools and equipment along with its Natural Stone and Neolith collections under one roof. The most recent event was held at its Moorebank (NSW) premises in March 2019, its biggest one so far.

This year’s Open House saw the official launch of the ADI Zero from Zoller, a CNC tool calibration machine that scans CNC tools and uploads straight to a CNC machine, according to Jonathan. “This incredible presetting and measuring machine is specially equipped for stone cutting tools. This new technology really grabbed the interest of attendees because of the substantial time it saves fabricators and high-level of accuracy. It is a new industry leading machine that will give our customer a large competitive advantage,” he said Zoller expert Bryan March gave a live demonstration on the ADI Zero which was broadcast from the stage.

There were also new additions to existing machines such as the GMM Extra 400 and Thibuat T812. “Many of our attendees loved how these features enhanced the production of the machines,” he said.

CDK Stone top executives (l-r): Joint managing director, James Woodyatt, director David Onesti and joint managing director, Jonathan Height

The LT-2D3D Templator also attracted a lot of attention. “With a dedicated laser booth, visitors were able to test out the laser and even template a mock kitchen. This interactive display generated a lot of interest and our customers were able to get hands on advice direct from a Laser Products North America representative,” said Jonathan.

One of the most popular exhibits was the one for CleanSpace respirators.

“With the entire range on display, visitors were able to wear a mask, gain advice and test out the products,” he said.

“Currently, the industry is seeing a massive emphasis on safety and silicosis prevention. CleanSpace power respirators provide a complete solution for respiration.”

CleanSpace also did an overview and presentation on its powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) that provides respiratory protection. “This advanced technology is leading the way in safety for our industry,” said Jonathan. “CleanSpace Respirators run an intelligent algorithm that delivers clear fresh air on demand and have been designed to be simple to use.”

This year’s event saw a new pneumatic, wet grinder from Alpha which attracted interest because of the major push by the industry towards wet-processing. “This wet grinder is ideal for wet processing stone products without health implications. Alongside this, there is a growing demand for these grinders as they reduce blade wear and provide a more efficient solution,” explains Jonathan.

There was an impressive contingent of overseas suppliers who travelled far and wide to participate at the Open House. A record 16 international companies sent representatives to talk directly to attendees and show new products, according to Jonathan.

“It was excellent to see even more international suppliers attend this year’s event. So many of our machinery suppliers were pleased to talk with our customers about their machinery, its daily use, improvements and feedback,” he said.

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Above: (l&r) National service delivery manager, Rob Skinner and commercial manager – machinery, Peter Mitchelhill, both from CDK Stone

Above: CleanSpace Technology representatives (l-r): Steve Harrison, Kyle Imms, Maria Fox and Peter Burke US-based Paul-Simon Holguin, product manager, Integra Adhesives CDK Stone tools & equipment sales consultants (l&r) Arnold Joseph and Joe Foster Ben Langdon from GMM Techni Waterjet Italy-based Alberto Nicoletti, Co.b.a.l.m.

Stone Working Machines

“CDK Stone worked hard to bring a high calibre of machinery providers from around the world which helped our customers to learn more about the latest industry developments.”

Not surprisingly, some extensive networking was done during the event. “A huge part of our Open House events is the social aspect, creating a forum for stone industry professionals to talk and discuss common topics,” he said. All this is conducted in a fun, convivial and relaxed atmosphere. (The Discovering Stone team can attest to that.)

The event definitely brought together some of the industry’s leading suppliers and their products.

They included CleanSpace, Integra Adhesives, Zoller, Neolith, Montalit and Lithofin.

Guests from international suppliers were well represented including Yann Salaun (Thibaut), Bryan March (Zoller USA & Canada) Alberto Nicoletti (Cobalm), Elenora Luzzi (Dal Prete Srl), Gert Senel (Sekon), Steffen Langhans (Burkhardt Hensel), Mara Comandulli (Comandulli), Simonetta Fontana (Manzelli), Senyuki Hosoi (Polytech), Paul-Simon Holgiun (Integra Adhesives), Erik Louis (Laser Products), Stefan Nichter (Konig), Carlo Artina (ADI), Allessandro Messetti (Tenax), and Carlos Sistiaga (Neolith Sintered Stone).

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Above: The ADI Zero, a CNC tool calibration machine, was one of the main attractions at the CDK Stone event in Sydney (l&r) Attendees could see the new features on the GMM Extra 400 first hand

Other exhibiting companies include Flex, Omni Cubed, Polytech, GMM, Techni Waterjet and Pneutech.

In 2020, CDK Stone will be celebrating its tenth Open House event. “We are already planning for more state-of-the-art machinery, exhibitions and demonstrations to support our customers and propel the industry forward,” said Jonathan.

To register your interest in attending next year, visit the CDK Stone website.

Below: The Burkhardt BAZ 595D Rotating Twin Table CNC Work Centre, as seen at the CDK event, is used for the production of kitchen benchtops, table tops as well as for grinding and polishing curved sides of monuments.

THE ULTIMATE WATERJET FOR CUTTING STONE THE MAXIEM 2O4O 5-AXIS

50% faster than any other waterjet.

A safe and accurate cut, guaranteed.

Easy-to-use software, for maximum productivity.

Small, efficient footprint.

Headland’s National Support and Spare Parts ensures optimal uptime.

Request a spec sheet today at headland.com.au/stonecutting

1300 592 061 marketing@headland.com.au headland.com.au

GUIDE TO

SEALANTS

This special section on sealants features a listing of the leading products available in the marketplace. International correspondent Joe Simpson writes about the developments in stone sealants and adhesives. There is also a product showcase highlighting the latest releases from Stone Doctor, Aqua Mix, Laticrete, Solutions Sealers, Spirit Sealers, Sure Seal, Lithofin and Environex.

FORMULATED FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE Ongoing research and development has been driving the evolution of sealants, adhesives, grouts, and after-care products for the stone industry. These technical advances, mostly incremental but with the occasional step-change, seek to address on-site issues such as speed of installation, challenging substrates, sound reduction, grout haze, and coping with movement. At the same time, some of the new formulations are also trying to address macro issues, such as sustainability, contractor safety, and air quality.

In recent years, this has led to the development of gel-based formulations, fibre-strand reinforcement and nanotechnology. There can also be commercial benefits, as some of the latest products on the market are also multi-functional, offering ideal combinations of rapid setting, longer pot life, adjustability, multi substrate compatibility, and suitability for a wider range of surface materials. For the distributor or retailer, this can reduce inventory requirements, and provide a clear and simple-to-understand sales story for customers. For the contractor, they can also mean fewer products on site, and better productivity.

One area of product development that has caused some confusion is lightweight adhesives, something at the core of Mapei’s product development strategy. The company’s philosophy is to constantly improve and enhance the quality of the its adhesives, while endeavouring to improve their environmental impact. Lightweight adhesives are just one component of its approach towards sustainability.

However, convincing potential buyers of the virtue of these products can be difficult as the manufacturing raw material costs are greater than traditional fillers. So the initial purchasing price always appears higher.

Mapei’s marketing campaign may

need to to explain the benefits, while debunking common misconceptions.

For instance, Mapei stresses that lighter materials do not mean less volume of product. In fact, they can deliver more volume for less weight.

If you compare Mapei’s Ultralite S2 15kg with a traditional S2 cementitious adhesive with a traditional powder and liquid mix (a 20kg bag of powder and approximately six litres of a latex additive), the latter delivers 26kg of product that will cover around 5sqm using a standard bed. In contrast, Ultralite S2 delivers 15kg of material that will cover around 7sqm using a standard bed when mixed with six litres of water.

N&C Gulfstone Quartz is an agglomerate stone quartz tile range that is long lasting because of the fusion of hard quartz and resin, and makes it scratch and stain resistant

18 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

THE CRAFTSMAN’S CHOICE SINCE 1953 THE LATEST CARE TECHNOLOGY FOR PRECIOUS SURFACES Lithofin boasts a complete range of premium

Lithofin products were first developed by Glaubrecht

specialised cleaners, sealers, problem solvers and

Stingel in Stuttgart, Germany in 1953. Today Lithofin is

maintenance products for natural and engineered

expertly guided by grandson Garvin Stingel developing

stone, ceramic and porcelain tiles, compact sintered

Lithofin into a worldwide market leader.

surfaces and external pavers used by both professionals and homeowners.

To view the full Lithofin range visit: www.lithofin.com.au

Melbourne 03 8552 6000 | Sydney 02 9822 5155 | Gold Coast 07 5537 3222 | Adelaide 08 8340 2877 | Perth 08 6240 2200

Regarding transporting these different materials to site for a 1,000sqm installation, the standard two-part mix would require 200 bags of powder and 200 bottles of liquid: seven pallets in total. With Ultralite S2, the same installation would require just three pallets.

To look at this on a larger scale, one million square metres of stone tiling would require around 22,400 trucks with standard adhesive and latex additive, but just 11,700 truck movements with a lightweight adhesive. There would also be significantly less packaging waste: a huge environmental benefit.

It may be a hard sell, but the construction and building industry is slowly waking up to the need to take more considered purchasing decisions, and move away from a simple price comparison model. It could be a while for cost calculations to take into account that extra material brings down the price per square metre installed, and may also come with the bonus time savings, transport savings, and health benefits. But it seems likely that such considerations will become more influential in the future.

When it comes to stone adhesives, other factors becoming more influential include the percentage of recycled

materials, such as glass and rubber, that can now be used to replace standard fillers in adhesive production.

For tilers, the constant trowelling of the adhesive takes its toll over the years. New lower density formations are claimed to be significantly easier to spread, reducing the incidence of RSI on the knees, hips, wrists, elbows, and shoulders of contractors. It also means less lugging of materials on site, and they may even increase the speed of installation.

Mapei and St Gobain Weber are among the leading manufacturers that have formulated adhesives to reduce dust production during mixing. This has enormous benefits to the installer’s health, reducing the risk of lung damage from fine dust particles.

Every manufacturer offers a rapid set adhesive that enables floors to be walked on and grouting to be carried out more quickly than with a standard set product. With conventional cementbased fast set (C2 F) adhesives, the specifier must take into account the type of substrate and whether it is flexible or not. Classified as C2 FTE S1, Kerakoll’s Biogel Revolution — suitable for natural stone such as marble — with gel technology that can be used on any type of substrate, including those that

Ultralite S2 delivers 15kg of material that will cover around 7sqm using a standard bed when mixed with six litres of water

20 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

are deformable by up to 2.5 mm. The pot life at 23°C is one hour, and it is ready for foot traffic and grouting after three hours.

For applications where an R2 adhesive is more appropriate, Kerakoll offers a hybrid-gel adhesive, Biogel Extreme, which can fix any material to any substrate even in the most extreme conditions. It is also solvent-free and non-toxic, unlike traditional epoxy-based reactive resin adhesives.

The adhesive strength (4.5N/mm2) is claimed to be 500% superior to a Class C2 cement-based adhesive after 24 hours, and ten times more deformable (> 50mm) than a Class S2 cement-based adhesive. It is also easy to spread, being far less viscous than a polyurethane adhesive. The pot life at 23°C is 110 minutes, with an open time of 180 minutes, but it is still ready for foot traffic or grouting after four hours.

Sika-owned Construction Technologies Australia (CTA) is an Australian-based manufacturer of stone and tile adhesives and associated products. The company formulates all products (where possible) around the Australian “Green Star” code. Typical is Prohesive Megalite: a high-performance polymer-modified, multi-purpose, high flexibility, high strength lightweight adhesive. Ideal for setting large format stone or tile, it offers non-slump performance for large format floor installations. Recommended for application up to 20mm thick, it is said to be 40% lighter than traditional cement-based adhesives; with a 13.5kg bag covering a greater area than a 20kg bag of traditional cement adhesive.

It is suitable for use in areas that are permanently damp, subject to thermal shock, and high mechanical loads.

Prohesive Ultrapro is a lightweight, fast setting, high coverage, polymer-modified, flexible, cement-based adhesive that was developed for time-critical installations. The formula makes it easy to handle and it can be used for both internal and external applications. The anti-slump characteristics make it useful for installing large and heavy stone tiles.

Australia's leading range of products to the stone & tile industry since 1991.

Latest technology Environmentally friendly

www.spiritsealers.com

..

0

e. sales@spiritsealers.com p: 02 9734 6937 DISTRIBUTORS IN ALL STATES

Aqua Mix is a range of tile and stone care and maintenance products that has been owned by US giant, Custom Building Products since 2006. The latest range includes Aqua Mix KnockDown, a non-acidic honing powder that removes light surface scratches, moderate acid etching, and wear patterns to produce a flat, even and honed finish. It is suitable for treating polished marble, limestone, or travertine when a honed, unpolished finish is desired.

Aqua Mix Enrich ‘n’ Seal is a premium, no-sheen, enhanced-look, 100% polymer-solid, penetrating sealer formulated to darken, enrich, and highlight the character and beauty of unsealed natural stone. It can also be used as a pre-grouting sealer, and effectively seals and darkens the colour of grout joints.

In Australia, another respected name in stone care is Dry-Treat. It offers a portfolio of impregnating sealers and specialist cleaners that are engineered to protect and maintain a wide range of porous surfaces, including all types of natural stone. Dry-Treat provides all the options needed to keep stone protected, while also retaining or enhancing the desired look.

Dry-Treat said its impregnators offer far more than mere oil- and water-based stain protection, since deeper penetration and permanent bonding technology means protection from more serious issues, such as efflorescence, picture framing, and salt or freeze-thaw spalling.

A stand-out example is Stain-Proof Original: an impregnating, invisible, and breathable sealer that provides long-term protection for natural stone against water- and oil-based stains and damage caused by water and dissolved salts. It is suitable for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor applications including façades, floors, walls, countertops, showers, swimming pool surrounds, and patios.

CHECKING THE STATUS OF STONE SEALING Need to know if the new stone tile, paver or existing installation is already effectively sealed, partially sealed or not sealed? Or whether it can be sealed at all?

may already be present but requires re-sealing. Or the stone is not sealed and is sufficiently dense enough to allow for slow absorption of water.

Determining if a stone is sealed is an important question which must be answered prior to considering the application of a new sealer treatment.

Realising if an unsealed stone surface will be able to accept a sealer is also critical in determining how to move forward. There is a simple “Water Test” that will help you determine, not only if the tile is sealed or not, but give you a guide as to what sealer should be used.

Complete change – If the water is completely absorbed into the surface and the spot appears to have grown in size, then the stone is not sealed and the use of high-quality sealer is recommended.

1. Apply water to a few different areas of the stone and/or grout.

2. Make each application of water approximately 25mm in diameter.

3. Measure the approximate size of the circle of water, without disturbing the water, and make a notation of position and size.

4. Place a drinking glass over the water to protect it from evaporation and let is sit undisturbed for 20 minutes.

5. After 20 minutes, remove the glass and observe the results.

No change – If the water appears the same as when it was applied and the water measures the same diameter, then a sealer is already present or the stone/tile is very dense and does not sealing. In fact, a very dense stone/tile may not accept a sealer (since absorbency is necessary for a material to accept a sealer).

Slight change – If the water is still present in a bead but appears to be absorbing into the surface, then a sealer

Story from Joe Simpson

22 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

This quick and easy test can provide valuable information about the current state of the stone surface. It will not only help you determine if a sealer is present or required, it can also provide good information as to how many coats and what sealer to apply.

Another useful tip: if the water is being absorbed slowly and you surmise a worn sealer application, you can confirm this with another simple test. This is carried out by cleaning a small inconspicuous area with a heavy duty cleaner to remove any existing cleaner and then perform the “water test” again.

If the water absorbs more quickly than previously, you should treat the entire area before the new application of sealer.

If there was not change in the rate of absorption, then there was not likely any sealer present and the new sealer application can be made.

For this and other useful tips when deciding whether you can seal, or how much sealer can be used, contact the sealer manufacturer.

By Fred Gray, technical service manager, Laticrete

Determining if a stone is sealed is an important question which must be answered prior to considering the application of a new sealer

24 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

1. Polished

Limestone

1. Polished

Marble

1. Polished

Granite

STONE/FINISH

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Solv Sealer Pro [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Toilet facilities – public places

Swimming pool surrounds

Bench and vanity tops

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Seal & Finish Low Sheen (3-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Residential living areas

Bath and shower rooms

Bench and vanity tops

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Seal & Finish Low Sheen (3-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Toilet facilities – public places

Residential living areas

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Hotels, offices, public places

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Toilet facilities – public places

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Food court/fast food outlets

External paving/ramps/stairs

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Shopping centre – walkway

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Pro [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Food court/fast food outlets

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Shopping centre – walkway

Hotels, offices, public places

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Pro [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Aqua Mix®/Custom Surface Solutions 1300 AQUA MIX www.aquamix.com.au

Hotels, offices, public buildings

External paving/ramps/stairs

PRIME LOCATIONS

2019 SEALER SELECTION GUIDE Actichem 1800 108 800 www.actichem.com.au

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop ECO 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop ECO 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop ECO 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop ECO 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin FVE 1-7 Lithofin Nanotop 1-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

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Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin FVE 1-7 Lithofin Nanotop 1-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin StainStop W 2-7

CDK Stone 03 8552 6000 www.Lithofin.com.au

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout).

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

Efflock 0414 730 736 www.efflock.com.au

www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | 25

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

Slate

6. Sawn/split finish

Sandstone

1. Polished

Bluestone

1. Polished

Travertine

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Bath and shower rooms

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (6-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (6-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (6-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (6-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (6-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (6-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (6-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (6-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (6-7) Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (6-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (6-7) Seal & Finish Low Sheen (6-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - Green Star (All) Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - Green Star (All) Intense - enhanced look [All]

Hotels, offices, public places

Swimming pool surrounds

Residential living areas

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure Enrich’N’Seal™ ProBlock – Pre Sealer

Defender SV [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Façades / construction Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - Green Star (All) Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure Enrich’N’Seal™ ProBlock – Pre Sealer

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Defender CSD50 [All]

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure Enrich’N’Seal™ ProBlock – Pre Sealer

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Shopping centre – walkway

Hotels, offices, public places

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Pro [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Bath and shower rooms

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure Enrich’N’Seal™ ProBlock – Pre Sealer

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Seal & Finish Low Sheen (3-7)

Solv Sealer Pro [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Residential living areas

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Pro [All] Solv Sealer Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Hotels, offices, public places

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Seal & Finish Low Sheen (3-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Residential living areas

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Defender SV Gold [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) Pro-Solv® (1-7)

Hotels, offices, public places

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Defender CSD 50 [2-7] Defender SV Gold [2-7] Intense - enhanced look [2-7]

Construction stone

External paving/ramps/stairs

Sealer’s Choice® Gold - Rapid Cure (1-7) Enrich’N’Seal™ (1-7) ProBlock – Pre Sealer (1-7)

Solv Sealer Gold [All] Stone Sealer Gold - green star [All] Intense - enhanced look [All]

Bath and shower rooms

Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 6-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 6-7 Lithofin StainStop W 6-7

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Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 6-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 6-7 Lithofin StainStop W 6-7

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Lithofin StainStop W 6 Lithofin MN Colour-Intensifier 6 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 6

Lithofin StainStop W 6 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 6 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 6

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Lithofin StainStop W 1-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 3-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 1-7

Lithofin StainStop W 1-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 3-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 1-7

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Lithofin StainStop W 1-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 3-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 1-7

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Lithofin MN Stain-Stop 1-7 Lithofin StainStop PLUS 2-7 Lithofin MN Stain-Stop ECO 2-7

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (six sided dip-seal) EFFSEAL (sealer for block/ rendered substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (six sided dip-seal) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (six sided dip-seal) EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout).

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout).

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout).

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate)

EFFSEAL (sealer for concrete substrate) EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout)

EFFLOCK (additive for mortar)

EFFLOCK (additive for screed, adhesive & grout).

26 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

1. Polished

Limestone

1. Polished

Marble

1. Polished

Granite

STONE/FINISH

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Toilet facilities – public places

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Toilet facilities – public places

Residential living areas

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Hotels, offices, public places

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bench and vanity tops

Bath and shower rooms

Residential living areas

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Food court/fast food outlets

Toilet facilities – public places

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Shopping centre – walkway

Hotels, offices, public places

Bench and vanity tops STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Food court/fast food outlets

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Shopping centre – walkway

Swimming pool surrounds

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

LATICRETE® AUSTRALIA 1800 331 012 www.laticrete.com.au

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

Environex Int P/L 1800 999 196 www.environex.net.au

Hotels, offices, public buildings

External paving/ramps/stairs

PRIME LOCATIONS

2019 SEALER SELECTION GUIDE

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX

2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

2,3,4,5,6,7 PRESTIGE POOL SEALER 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC 1. PROTEX

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

Solutions Sealers 1300 4 STONE (78663) www.solutionssealers.com.au

www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | 27

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

Slate

6. Sawn/split finish

Sandstone

1. Polished

Bluestone

1. Polished

Travertine

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

STONETECH®Salt Water Resistant All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Clearseal - Natural Finish Hi-Lite - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All STONETECH®Salt Water Resistant All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer All STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Hi-Lite - Colour Enhancing

Hotels, offices, public places

Residential living areas

Swimming pool surrounds

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

External paving/ramps/stairs

Façades / construction

Swimming pool surrounds

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Hi-Lite - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

Hotels, offices, public places

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH®Salt Water Resistant All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer All

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Hi-Lite - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH®Salt Water Resistant All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

Premium Bluestone Sealer - Natural Finish

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer Tuscan TSL - Natural Finish Pinnacle TSL - Colour Enhancing

STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer (less absorbtive) All STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer (more absorptive) All

Synergy - Consolidating/Penetrating Sealer

External paving/ramps/stairs

Shopping centre – walkway

Bath and shower rooms

Residential living areas

Swimming pool surrounds

Hotels, offices, public places

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bath and shower rooms

Residential living areas

Swimming pool surrounds

Hotels, offices, public places

External paving/ramps/stairs

Construction stone

Bath and shower rooms

6,7 PRISTINE 6,7 QUANTUM 6,7 SILACRYL WET/MATT LOOK

6,7 PRESTIGE POOL SEALER 6,7 PRISTINE 6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

6,7 PRISTINE 6,7 QUANTUM 6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

6,7 PRISTINE 6,7 QUANTUM 6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

SILCOPEL SILCOPEL – WB LOW VOC CONSOLIDATE

PRESTIGE POOL SEALER CONSOLIDATE – Dip Sealed PRISTINE

QUANTUM

PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC QUANTUM SILCOPEL

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 INFUSE COLOUR ENHANCER

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRESTIGE POOL SEALER 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM

1, PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PRESTIGE POOL SEALER

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1,2,3,4,5,6,7 PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 SILCOPEL 2,3,4,5,6,7 SILCOPEL – WB LOW VOC

1. PROTEX 2,3,4,5,6,7 QUANTUM 2,3,4,5,6,7 PRISTINE – WB LOW VOC

28 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

1. Polished

Limestone

1. Polished

Marble

1. Polished

Granite

STONE/FINISH

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal

Swimming pool surrounds

Bellinzoni BLock D70 ECO+ Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Block D70 ECO+ Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal

Residential living areas

Bath and shower rooms

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Toilet facilities – public places

Residential living areas

Bellinzoni Idea Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Hotels, offices, public places

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bellinzoni Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Toilet facilities – public places

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bellinzoni Block D70 ECO+ Bellinzon iIdea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Food court/fast food outlets

Bench and vanity tops

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Shopping centre – walkway

Hotels, offices, public places

Bellinzoni Block D70 ECO+ Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Stoneager Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Toilet facilities – public places

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Food court/fast food outlets

Bench and vanity tops

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Shopping centre – walkway

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Stone Doctor Australia 03 9429 1223 shop.stonedoctor.com.au

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Spirit Sealers & Cleaners 02 9734 6937 www.spiritsealers.com

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal

Hotels, offices, public buildings

External paving/ramps/stairs

PRIME LOCATIONS

2019 SEALER SELECTION GUIDE

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Sure Seal Sealants 1800 336 600 www.suresealsealants.com.au

www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | 29

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

2. Honed 3. Exfoliated 4. Blasted 5. Bush hammered 6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

6. Sawn/split finish 7. Satin/antique

Slate

6. Sawn/split finish

Sandstone

1. Polished

Bluestone

1. Polished

Travertine

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bath and shower rooms

Bellinzoni Idea Stonager | Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Stonager | Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Stonager | Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Stonager | Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni AQ Proof

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Uni Seal

Hotels, offices, public places

Swimming pool surrounds

Residential living areas

Bellinzoni Strong 2000 Bellinzoni Idea Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Façades / construction Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Bellinzoni Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bellinzoni Idea Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Shopping centre – walkway

Hotels, offices, public places

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bath and shower rooms

Bellinzoni Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Residential living areas

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Bellinzoni Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Hotels, offices, public places

Bellinzoni AQ Proof Bellinzoni Idea Dark Bellinzoni Idea HP

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Residential living areas

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bellinzoni Limesealer Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Swimming pool surrounds

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Dark

Hotels, offices, public places

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Natural Paving Seal

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Construction stone

External paving/ramps/stairs

Bellinzoni Idea HP Bellinzoni Idea Gold Bellinzoni Idea Rapid Color

Premium Seal Water Base Premium Seal Pre Seal

Bath and shower rooms

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Quick Drying [ALL] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [1-3] or Quick Drying [4-7] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [1-3] or Quick Drying [4-7] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [1-3] or Quick Drying [4-7] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [1-3] or Quick Drying [4-7] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

Grout, Tile & Stone Sealer – Slow Drying [1-3] or Quick Drying [4-7] 24/7 Plus Stone Sealer (Water based) [ALL] Premium Plus (water based) [ALL]

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A MARBLE SINK RESTORED AS NEW The marble kitchen bench in a Melbourne apartment looked destined to be a write off. The tenant had been cleaning it with harsh chemicals, used it as a cutting board and hadn’t bothered to wipe up any acidic liquid spills like lemon juice or vinegar. So the once flawless surface was now a dull sheen riddled with deep scratches, etch marks, hairline cracks and chipped edges.

The dismayed owner was on the brink of getting it replaced when she was referred to Stone Doctor Australia that had been involved in three other restoration projects in Freshwater Place in Southbank, Melbourne.

“That kitchen bench was in shocking condition,” recalls Simon Gabriel, director of Stone Doctor Australia. “But it wasn’t irreparable.”

According to Simon, most people with limited knowledge of natural stone surfaces would assume that this kitchen bench was at the end of its lifespan.

But, he says, what they see as permanent damage is in fact a condition that can be restored through the process of re-honing and re-polishing.

That doesn’t mean it was an easy project to undertake.

Undoing damage of that scale demanded intense time and labour that stretched across four days.

First, the Stone Doctor team applied plastic protection to all adjoining surfaces, such as walls and cabinets.

Drop sheets were also used on the floor to prevent it from damage and to minimise the clean up. Then they began re-honing the marble surface by grinding it with seven different grits of diamond abrasives ranging from rough to smooth.

During this process, the team filled in the chipped areas and repaired the hairline cracks. Once the re-honing was completed, it was time for the final polishing stage. The team chose suitable marble polishing powders that would react with the surface to create a mirrorlike finish.

After a full 24 hours had passed, the surface was sealed with Bellinzoni Idea Stonager, a premium stone penetrating sealer that would protect the surface from absorbing water or oil and preventing stains.

The owner was thrilled with the results and remarked that her newly restored marble kitchen bench looked even better than it did when it was first installed in her kitchen.

During the restoration process, the Stone Doctor team filled in the chipped areas and repaired the hairline cracks

“It’s always satisfying to undertake projects like this,” said Simon. “The contrast between the condition before and after restoration gives us a great sense of achievement. I daresay that the more damaged a surface, the more pleasure we get out of restoring it and delighting the client.”

30 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

EVERY DAY STONE CLEANER AquaShield™ Cleaner & Resealer from Aqua MIx is a ready to use, routine cleaner and re-sealer. It tops up natural stone and tiles with a high-quality penetrating sealer as it cleans, and uses a safe non-acidic, non-abrasive pH neutral formula so it won’t damage stone, grout or tile. As a result, it is an ideal routine cleaner for all natural stone countertops, splashback and showers.

AquaShield is also biodegradable, low VOC and a water-based product. It is available in a 710ml spray bottle.

As a cleaner, it cuts through grease, dirt, food and soap scum on tile, grout, chrome, glass, and laminates. It can also be used over any penetrating sealer, and suitable for maintaining sealed stone and tile surfaces.

For example, all natural stone (such as granite, limestone, marble, slate, terrazzo, bluestone/basalt, and travertine), ceramic, porcelain, grout, quarry, Saltillo, terra-cotta, cement pavers, masonry surfaces, cement encaustic tiles and other water-safe surfaces.

LOCALLY MADE SEALANT

PROTECT AND SEAL

PRESTIGE from Solutions Sealers is an innovative, Australian made and designed product, specifically for use around pools, water features and high moisture areas. It is an invisible solvent based treatment for masonry surfaces which preserves against the damaging effects of salt, moisture, staining and efflorescence.

STONETECHÂŽ BulletProofÂŽ Sealer from Laticrete Is an advanced water-based sealer, designed to provide maximum protection against most stains. It provides penetrating microbond protection on natural stone against the toughest oil and waterbased stains.

The superior design of PRESTIGE is based on years of field testing to provide rapid vapour diffusion, unlike other stone consolidators that can increase salt degradation in certain environments, according to James Carr, general manager at Solutions Sealers.

The product allows the stone to breathe, whilst still retaining water repellency and stain resistance.

Ideal for use on honed or textured marble, textured or veined granite, limestone, travertine, sandstone, flagstone, quartzite and bluestone. This product preserves the natural look of stone and is suitable for interior and exterior use on countertops, splashbacks, floors and walls.

Stone Sealing Specialists

Australian made specialty sealers, manufactured and applied by Environex International Stonecare Specialists. Speciality sealers to suit all natural stone including travertine, sandstone, bluestone, marble, limestone and granite. Experts in sealing domestic and commercial areas including swimming pools, bathrooms, kitchens, internal and external cladding, tiles, pavers and benchtops.

15 YEAR WARRANTY

www.environex.net.au/app Or call your local Environex Specialist on 1800 999 196

Book an obligation FREE quote online

The best in the stone industry choose Actichem.

Because a complete solution to natural stone care, can mean the difference between success and failure.

Industry-leading, high-performance penetrating sealers Unique & effective cleaning solutions Problem solvers Coming soon...

Polishing Compounds, Polishing Powder & Stone Soap

www.actichem.com.au info@actichem.com.au 1800 108 800

SEALANT DESIGNED FOR BLUESTONE Premium Bluestone Sealer from Environex is a specially formulated natural penetrating sealer developed for bluestone and other natural stone and masonry surfaces. This penetrating sealer is made to keep the natural colour of the stone and will not change the surface texture but may darken slightly.

AUSTRALIA’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN SEALERS

The manufacturer recommends to always wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when using the product. A minimum requirement includes safety glasses, gloves, boots and a respirator. It also warns that damage to clothing may occur.

Sure Seal® Products for Superior Performance Every Time!

The product manufacturer also suggests the following:

IT’S NOT SEALED UNLESS IT’S

SURE SEALED

The company also recommends using its Environex Refresh pH neutral detergent for daily or weekly maintenance. And users should always test first.

• Do not seal under 10°C or over 30°C. • Apply 2-4 coats of Premium Bluestone Sealer to a clean dry surface with an Environex Lambswool Applicator or Environex Viton Seal Sprayer.

The sealer will cover approximately 10sqm per litre, per coat. The number of coats and coverage depends on the porosity of the surface.

BRING OUT THE COLOURS Lithofin FVE is a high performance, colour-enhancing impregnating sealer that deepens the colours of natural stone and concrete style materials. This product is especially suitable for dark and hard natural stones and for use on kitchen benchtops, vanities and other small surfaces.

Lithofin FVE is also safe to use in food preparation areas.

Sure Seal Sealants Australia Pty Ltd info@suresealsealants.com.au www.suresealsealants.com.au

1800 33 66 00

Leaving a vibrant finish, this professional grade sealer offers optimum protection against the penetration of oil, grease, water, dirt and

any unwanted residues while facilitating maintenance. The treatment does not develop surface layers or produce a gloss finish.

Lithofin FVE is easy-to-apply, dries quickly, solvent-based, provides extra-long colour enhancement and is ready-touse. The active ingredients are resistant towards household chemicals, cleaners and high temperatures.

The product is distributed through CDK Stone. It recommends surfaces are regularly cleaned with Lithofin MN Easy-Clean.

If it isn't STONETECH it isn't good enough for your stone or tile! ®

STONETECH® offers a complete line of high performing products designed to protect, clean and transform your stone, tile, masonry and/or grout surfaces. Ensure the quality of your work for years to come with STONETECH. Snap for more information.

au.laticrete.com

l 1800 331 012

A-1194-0319 © 2019 LATICRETE Australia Pty Ltd. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners.

SEALANT MAINTENANCE MADE EASIER How long will my sealer last? This is a question often asked by wholesalers, retailers and their customers.

While it is widely understood that most natural stone needs sealing, what is not so well understood is how to maintain it.

There are a few key points as to how long a sealer can last. Some key questions need to be asked.

1. Was it applied correctly? Correct application is paramount to achieving a good seal.

2. Where was the sealing done?

Internal or external, is it considered a high traffic area like a shower cubicle, driveway, commercial area etc.?

3. Most importantly, how is the stone cleaned/maintained?

Before stone is sealed it needs to be cleaned, and after it has been sealed it will still need to be cleaned. The right cleaners need to be used. Overuse

of alkaline or acidic cleaners will prematurely break down any sealed surface. It should be noted that most natural stones will be damaged in some way when in contact with acids.

Spirit Sealers recommend using a product such as its Spirit Neutral Cleaner with a new and improved formula for the regular maintenance of natural stone. A pH neutral formula cleaner that is completely streak free and low suds, it is safe to use on any natural stone and will not break existing sealers down.

Many homeowners unknowingly love their stone to death, cleaning it regularly with heavy duty cleaners. These cleaners will do a great cleaning job but they will also break the sealer down too. This usually ends with an unhappy customer who thinks the sealer is not doing its job. In fact, the sealer is fighting an uphill battle.

Spirit Sealers said it can eliminate any of those worries with its personalised stone guides and maintenance plans.

Within those guides is a complete “how to” relating to the cleaning, sealing and maintenance of stone.

The company will request a sample piece of stone that will be cleaned, sealed and tested at its Sydney-based head office. It will be run through inhouse accelerated wear tests and then checked for stain resistance.

An appropriate maintenance program or guide will be written up for the homeowner to follow which can take some of the pressure from the retailer.

Many wholesalers and retailers use these guides regularly.

With the correct initial sealing, and applying a personalised stone maintenance schedule, stone can be enduring for its owners, according to the Spirit Sealers team.

HEAVY DUTY AND HIGH PERFORMANCE Sure Seal® Premium Plus Sealer is a high strength, premium-grade, waterbased, penetrating sealer specially formulated for extra wear and tear in high traffic areas. It is suitable for use in commercial applications. According to the manufacturer, it will provide unparalleled protection against water and oil-based stains, moss, efflorescence and alkalis to maintain the natural look and beauty of stone surfaces. The product is invisible upon application, and will not change the appearance of the treated surface.

to spalling and pitting of porous stone and concrete surfaces. This is caused by salt penetration and spalling is a result of freeze-thaw cycles.

In addition to commercial projects, Sure Seal Premium Plus can also be used for residential, industrial and high rise applications.

Sure Seal Premium Plus also penetrates more deeply than conventional wateror solvent-based sealers and protects horizontal and vertical surfaces from moisture intrusion and chemical attack of chloride salts.

Treated surfaces can keep their natural breathing characteristics and appearance, and it provides a solution

IF ONLY THEY KNEW...

Meet Ed and Sarah. They love their home and recently retiled their balcony using natural stone. The job was perfect and they were thrilled.

But 1 month later, they started to get leaching as well as picture framing.

IF ONLY THEIR STONE MERCHANT OR TILER HAD RECOMMENDED EFFLOCK Efflock is an advanced additive that prevents migration of calcium hydroxide and other salts that cause efflorescence.

It also provides a hydrophobic function for mortar to minimise picture framing in moisture sensitive stone.

When added to screed, render, tile adhesive and grout, Efflock provides a primary water barrier and is proven to be a reliable solution for preventing efflorescence.

www.efflock.com.au | info@efflock.com.au | +61 414 730 736

NEW PRODUCT! Look for it in the Sealer Guide

PROFILE

Simple stone selection and installation Euro Natural Stone guides its customers through each stage of the stone buying process from design through to installation

F

rom the moment customers step into a Euro Natural Stone (ENS) showroom, they can choose the stone, send drawings to the design team, receive a quote and have it all installed.

Instead of dealing with a number of companies, ENS provides the opportunity to have everything related to stone purchasing done in one place.

Other stone companies can find the stone but little else, and most stonemasons focus only on the fabrication so customers may have to deal with several different companies.

ENS simplifies the process for the customer and acts like a “one-stop shop� for buying stone products.

ENS believes it can be stressful for customers when they are doing the renovations and having to deal with different companies such as the stone shop then a stonemason etc. It makes the process easier because it is also able to work with kitchen suppliers as well.

The stone at ENS is sourced mainly in Europe. One of its directors is based in Turkey and can access local quarries to find high quality, individual blocks, and negotiates the best possible price.

[This is in contrast to just seeing images from the quarry remotely.]

ENS primarily deals with natural stone but it also has samples of engineered stone, and can order slabs from Smart Stone, Caesarstone and other engineered stone brands. It offers a fabrication service for this type of stone and some of its in-house machinery includes a bridge saw, water jet and CNC. ENS has very proactive relationships with designers and architects. These professionals can make contact with a showroom or ENS will conduct regular visits with new samples to let them know about the latest products. Or architects and designers can accompany clients to choose slabs and help them make an informed decision.

It has been almost six years since ENS launched its first storefront in Alexandria (NSW) but its factory has operated under a different name for the past 20 years. Initially it was called Euro International for the factory and Euro Natural Stone for the showroom but now it is one company and under name: Euro Natural Stone.

The ENS showrooms can be found in the Sydney suburbs of Alexandria or Neutral Bay. To find out more, visit the Euro Natural Stone website.

38 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

Above: Euro Natural Stone offers almost every size and variation of marble, limestone, travertine, and granite Below (from left): Laverna Marble Slab was used at Bella Brutta restaurant in Newtown (NSW); White Gold Marble Slabs in the kitchen of a residence in Camperdown (NSW); Atlas Marble has been used in the kitchen of a Mascot (NSW) house

ASAA

Dedicated to the promotion of Australian stone at home and overseas. ASAA seeks to develop standards of excellence in performance and product supply, and to facilitate greater co-operation between the various sectors and competing entities of our industry.

TM

MEMBERS OF THE AUSTRALIAN STONE ADVISORY ASSOCIATION INCLUDE: Australian Processors & Suppliers of Stone Quarriers of Australian Stone Stone Fixers, Landscapers, Geologists, Building Contractors, Sculptors, Educators Manufacturers of Adhesives, Grouts, Sealants & Waterproof Membranes Wholesalers/Importers, Resellers of Stone Suppliers of Machinery/Equipment Government Agencies, Professional Service Providers, Associations

To find out more about the benefits and why you should become a member of the Australian Stone Advisory Association email info@asaa.com.au or call 0421 388 127.

ASAA MEMBERS

www.asaa.com.au

seminars | standards of excellence | architectural awards

CONTENTS OF THE ASAA MANUAL

Visit www.asaa.com.au to download a FREE version of ASAA’s new guide to ‘Sealing and maintaining natural stone’.

Sealer Selection Guide available for FREE DOWNLOAD from www.asaa.com.au

Geology of Stone Standards & Specifications Design Manual Stone Selection ASAA members enjoy a 50 per cent I Stone Testing saving when they purchase the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual.

Granite To join or order a manual call Limestone 03 9888 3587 or email Marble & Onyx info@asaa.com.au Sandstone Travertine Over 450 copies sold to specifiers Slate Basalt The manual exceeds 390 pages. Each section Installation has been carefully peer reviewed.

Horizontal Surfaces Vertical Surfaces AVAILABLE AS A DIGITAL DOWNLOAD Wet Areas To place an order call 03 9888 3587 Natural Stone Tiles during business hours or send an – fixing methods email to info@asaa.com.au.

Residential Stone Countertops Capping & Sills Cost: Stone Furniture ASAA Members $132 Architects $132 (includes GST) Stone Faced Veneer/Pre-cast Non-Members $264 Concrete Allow 24 hours confirmation before download.

Cleaning & Maintenance Digital version is licensed to the purchaser.

Restoration/Refinishing We accept Mastercard & VISA Slip Resistance of Stone Active Australian Quarries ALTERNATIVELY ORDER THE CD VERSION Allow $22 for registered mail and handling Images of Natural Stones of Australia Glossary of Stone Industry Terms Modelled on the Marble Institute of America Dimension Stone Design Manual, the ASAA Natural Stone Appendix (Production Table, Design Manual comprehensively covers geology, stone selection, installation, care, maintenance and MOHS Scale, Applicable ASTM restoration. Contains references to applicable standards and test methods, an extensive glossary, list of Standards & Tests) quarries, prime suppliers of stone and related allied products.

ACROBAT READER REQUIRED

VERSION

© This copyrighted work is jointly owned by the Marble Institute of America Inc. and the Australian Stone Advisory Association Ltd and may not be reproduced, transmitted and otherwise disseminated without the express written consent of the Marble Institute of America Inc. and the Australian Stone Advisory Association Ltd.

}

ASAA

Thank you, Tony and Felicity Stock Australian Stone Advisory Association CEO, Peter Mitchelhill and acting general manager, David West share some of their memories of Tony Stock, former ASAA head and founder of Discovering Stone magazine, as he steps down from the group. Here is what they had to say about Tony and his enormous contribution to the industry.

“When Tony decided to expand his publication activities at Infotile, and launched Discovering Stone in March 2002, he stepped into a role as a figurehead and leader in the stone industry both nationally and abroad.

With his intimate knowledge and passion for all things stone and tile, and regular travel to meet suppliers and producers, Tony was able to bring together people from disparate parts of the industry through their common interest in stone.

“It didn’t take very long at all before Tony recognised that not only was the local stone industry hungry for information about materials, and methods, and projects but that there was a yawning chasm that could only be bridged through an industry association.

“And so, amidst the challenges of building the Discovering Stone readership base and sourcing content and finding advertisers, Tony took on the additional challenge of bringing

together industry leaders to establish the Australian Stone Advisory Association (ASAA). He convinced a number of key participants from across the breadth of the industry including major quarriers, fabricators and consultants to join him on that journey. And so, in late 2004, ASAA was established.

“Tony spent more than a decade as CEO of the association. In that time, he introduced many like-minded businesses to each other, creating business friendships amongst industry competitors, suppliers and end-users.

Tony was hands-on, always on the lookout for ideas for new activities, events and interactions, all with the aim of improving knowledge and understanding of the use of stone.

“In the early 2000s, Tony founded the Full Frontal Tile and Stone Expo, which once again brought together suppliers, builders, architects and producers from around Australia and from other countries. He convinced industry specialists and experts to give presentations at the event, creating another platform for the wider dissemination of knowledge and the sharing of experiences thorough formal presentations, or informally in the conversations that began afterwards and continued over coffee or drinks later.

A past gathering of ASAA members and executives. Tony Stock is at the centre.

42 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

Tony Stock, founder of Australian Stone Advisory Association and Discovering Stone magazine

“The Australian Stone Architectural Awards is another of Tony’s brilliant initiatives. Created to highlight the use of Australian natural stone in significant projects, he worked with the Australian Institute of Architects to ensure that the awards reflected professional standards. The awards gained acceptance stone industry professionals, architects and designers.

And of course, the presentation of these awards created the opportunity for networking and collaborations.

“From the outset, Tony’s focus for ASAA was about delivering more and better information to all members of the stone industry, including endusers. To this end, he initiated and built a strong affiliation with the Marble Institute of America (now the Natural Stone Institute), which ultimately led to an agreement for ASAA to create an Australian version of its Natural Stone Design Manual.

The ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual, released in 2011, has become a standard source of guidance for the use of stone in the Australian building industry.

“Tony also identified the need for other specialist publications – he incorporated a Buyers Guide to in previous issues of Discovering Stone, and he drafted and edited the ASAA Stone Sealer Guide for the installation

of stone countertops (which is now incorporated in the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual).

“He also worked with Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) to prepare the first environmental standard for sustainable hard surface flooring and paving, including stone, ceramic tiles and other masonry materials. Published as GECA 402008 Hard Surfacing, this standard is currently being taken through the formal review process to include changes in approaches to sustainable rating systems over the past decade.

“And of course, in parallel with his activities for ASAA, Tony was busy running his publishing business with Infotile, Tile Today, and Discovering Stone. This work led Tony to become a major library of information, statistics, contacts and resources for the stone and ceramic tile industries in Australia.

“As Discovering Stone flourished, it became a key reference source for architects and specifiers. It helped with the exchange of knowledge and experience in ways never before seen in the industry. Discovering Stone remains the only magazine dedicated to the Australian stone industry, and continues to put the stone industry on the desks of architects, engineers, designers, authorities, material suppliers and stone producers.

“In recent years, following the sale of his publishing activities to Elite Publishing, Tony remained involved in ASAA, taking on the position of industry liaison officer, and his everpatient wife, Felicity, continued in an administrative role.

“Finally, however, the day has come for Tony and Felicity to step back from their active involvement in the activities of ASAA, and we take this opportunity to acknowledge all that they have achieved on our behalf over the past fifteen years. “Thank you, Tony and Felicity. We will remain indebted to you for your contributions to the stone industry in Australia, and for your friendship.”

By Peter Mitchelhill and David West

Design Manual ACROBAT READER REQUIRED

I

VERSION

© This copyrighted work is jointly owned by the Marble Institute of America Inc. and the Australian Stone Advisory Association Ltd and may not be reproduced, transmitted and otherwise disseminated without the express written consent of the Marble Institute of America Inc. and the Australian Stone Advisory Association Ltd.

Design manual for end-users Architects, builders, designers, property developers and stone industry participants have always lamented the lack of a comprehensive guide to the specification, installation, protection and restoration of natural stone.

Architects seeking advice on standards have invariably turned to ASTM (American Society for Testing and Material) for guidance.

Given the absence of available funding for the development of similar standards in Australia, the Australian Stone Advisory Association determined that the best, and most effective way forward, lay in development of a comprehensive manual which references the ASTM recommendations, and provides a contemporary snapshot of local and international industry practices.

The Marble Institute of America (MIA) produce a comprehensive manual, which covers all the bases.

ASAA contacted MIA CEO Gary Distelhorst in relation to the local association reproducing MIA materials under license.

The ASAA board met with Gary in Sydney in 2008, where he gave permission for the association to produce Australian versions of MIA guides, on the proviso that it clearly referenced the MIA as the copyright holder. In 2009, ASAA produced its version of the “Residential Stone Countertop Guide”.

A growing number of architects, building owners, stonemasons and

homeowners were seeking advice and assistance. As the number and complexity of the calls to ASAA grew, callers were asked to formally submit their request via email.

More callers were seeking advice prior to selecting a suitable product.

Many of the problems outlined in subsequent emails could have been avoided if access to a suitable reference guide to stone selection, testing, installation and maintenance was widely available.

This indicated that the availability of a suitable standard or guide was long overdue. As a result, the ASAA board asked the MIA for permission to produce an Australian version of its 400 plus page manual, which would contain appropriately modified text and drawings.

The MIA responded positively and an agreement has been reached in principle, which provides both parties with joint copyright of the contents of the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual, and an appropriate share of the net proceeds of sales of the manual.

A decision was made to add some new sections, which fully reflect the local use of stone, common problems that regularly happen. Many of the chapters are supported by comprehensive drawings.

Where appropriate users will be invited to purchase new chapters, which will enable them to update the content of their manual.

www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | 43

MACHINERY

Waterjet helps deliver growth Stone Design Group has expanded its business with an OMAX Maxiem Waterjet from Headland Machinery

H

eadland Machinery recently caught up with Kosta Zovas from Stone Design Group to ask about its Omax Maxiem 2040 Waterjet and how the team is using it in the business.

Headland Machinery (HM): When did you start using a OMAX Maxiem Waterjet in your business?

Kosta Zovas (KZ): Stone Design recently grew the business and we happily inherited the OMAX Maxiem Waterjet. Since then, we have been able to increase what we do, not only in terms of the end product but also the intricacy within patterns has certainly expanded. It just gives our customers more options and it’s a safer way to cut for our employees.

HM: Do your customers enquire how you cut the product?

KZ: It’s definitely a selling point, everyone talks about cutting with a waterjet, however, not everyone does.

You need a waterjet these days as the materials are all different and the expectations are a lot higher.

I think the precision of the Maxiem waterjet is second-to-none and the capabilities, in terms of what you can do, it gives you a greater scope.

Our work is mainly commercial and we cut stone for kitchens and vanities. We also do a lot of feature tiles and foyers.

HM: What matters most to your customers?

KZ: It’s definitely precision and the quality of workmanship. There was not as much scope to do things without a waterjet because patterns and designs are a lot more intricate now. It really offers more flexibility to do things for our clients.

HM: What are your thoughts on the service that you get from Headland Machinery?

KZ: Although we have only been dealing with Headland for a short time, the staff always get back to us quickly and helps to minimise any downtime. For us, downtime is very costly to the business. So when we are looking at upgrading or buying new machinery, it’s not always down to

44 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

the cost of the machine, because the service is extremely important. We can’t afford any downtime.

HM: How do you service your customers better than the competition?

KZ: I like to think we do, but I believe it comes it down to our own service and we focus on this all the time. Our client base is based mainly on referrals which is at a high level, so I think that is a good sign that we’re doing a good job.

HM: Tell us more about about Stone Design Group KZ: For over 20 years now, Stone Design Group has manufactured stone surfaces for predominantly commercial projects. We source high-quality stone from around the world and manufacture the product in-house, whether it be tile or stone, for kitchens, vanities and foyers.

Read more about Stone Design Group by visiting the website.

See more about the OMAX Maxiem 2040 Machine at the Headland Machinery website.

PRI MUS LIMIT-FREE PRODUCTION. The high technological content of Primus waterjet cutting systems meets the requirements of operators who process composite materials, glass, synthetic stone, non-metallic alloys, titanium, aluminium and ceramic materials.

Primus 402

INTERMAC.COM

Hundreds of visitors attended the 4-day event

Machine knowledge gained on-site Discovering Stone’s machinery editor, Phil Ashley attended the opening of Biesse Group’s Sydney campus

B

iesse Group refers to its Australian showroom that opened in Wetherill Park in Sydney’s western suburbs recently, as a campus because it is considered a place of learning. Much more than a traditional showroom, the Sydney campus is a training facility for staff and its customers.

Speaking at the official opening, Biesse Group subsidiaries director Federico Broccoli emphasised point: “We call them campuses for a reason – because you can learn”.

It covers 5000sqm of which 2000sqm is the showroom displaying over 20 of the group’s machines. The campus is equipped with classrooms for training, a dedicated software space, as well as a service and spare parts area.

The Sydney campus is Biesse Group’s third largest in the world, behind Italy and USA. The company makes significant investments close to where its machines, and therefore, its customers are located. The opening of its Sydney campus is the result of a EUR7 million (AUD11 million) investment that has translated to

over 50 service roles that did not exist before. This allows Biesse Group’s different divisions to offer a comprehensive, locally-based sales and service experience to its customers.

Cutting the ribbon Opening the brand-new facility was The Hon. Natasha Maclaren-Jones MLC. She congratulated Biesse Group Intermac on 25 years supporting

Australian local businesses that she believes are “the backbone of our economy”. Michael Bullock, CEO, Biesse Group Australia and New Zealand was master of ceremonies for the event. He said, “We’re already developing training programs that we will present to our customers, but we’re also looking to develop the skill level of our own technicians and this will happen here in Sydney and in Italy.”

The Hon. Natasha Maclaren-Jones MLC (centre) helped to launch Biesse Group’s Australian campus in Wetherill Park (NSW)

46 | DISCOVERING STONE #34 | www.discoveringstonemagazine.com.au

Above (from left): A Donatoni bridge saw in action The Montresor edge polishers are built for fast production 3D work in advanced materials could be seen at the Biesse Group launch

Group marketing and communications manager, Rafael Prati said, “One way we develop our machines is by listening to our customers. When they bring their own materials, their own ideas, prototypes and designs to our showroom, we start to see new applications and the campus becomes an extension of the R&D department.”

Biesse Group currently invests four per cent of its sales turnover in research and development.

Machines for stone As part of the Biesse Group, Intermac produces machinery and equipment for the stone, glass and advanced materials industries. Its main products for stone production are the Donatoni bridge saws, Master CNC profiling machines (work centres), and Primus water jet machines. The Montresor edge polishing machines are a recent addition.

The machinery on display at the Sydney campus opening included

the Donatoni JET625 Bridge Saw for cutting stone and similar materials.

It has a level of automation that will help maximise its return for the machine’s owner.

The Master 33 for stone edge processing is considered the Intermac flagship machine. With a single operator and some light materials handling, this machine can produce two kitchens (or eight separate benchtops) per shift. The machine is extremely functional, easy to use and requires very little human intervention.

In the last seven or eight years, the industry has seen a solid move from mid-market machines to those that have some level of automation.

Latest to the market is Master One, a 3-axis machining centre dedicated to the processing of stone and sintered materials. The Master One series can perform the most complex and varied machining operations, providing users with superb finish quality when working with natural stone, granite, marble and synthetic and ceramic materials for bathroom unit tops, kitchen tops, construction and memorials.

Intermac has continually evolved the Master range by creating an entry level product with high end usability.

The main challenge has been to achieve the machine’s target cost while increasing performance and reliability.

The machines on show at the Sydney campus opening had a sales value of three million dollars. In addition, there is around five million dollars’ worth of parts in stock, all available for dispatch to ensure local users can keep their machines running.

50th anniversary The grand opening of the Biesse Group’s purpose-built premises in Wetherill Park coincided with the company celebrating 50 years of innovation and technology. “The showroom facility represents an opportunity … to train our customers’ machine operators on the latest technology Biesse Group has to offer,” said Carl Massey, service director of Biesse Group Australia and New Zealand The Sydney campus follows closely on the heels of the Barcelona, Spain campus launch in October 2018 and the soon-to-open 13th campus in Ulm, Germany this year.

Story from Phil Ashley

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Siemens’ Milan HQ covered in Cotto d’Este Cotto d’Este porcelain stoneware defines the aesthetic of Casa Siemens, writes international correspondent Joe Simpson The German conglomerate’s new Milan offices were designed by Milanese architects Barreca & La Varra. The 15,500sqm building sits in a prominent 86,000sqm plot in the north-eastern outskirts of Italy’s most commercial city. It now houses the management staff as the company’s new HQ. For its surfaces and finishes, Barreca & La Varra specified a raft of different ranges from Cotto d’Este.

For the covering of the external façades, the architects selected Kerlite5plus Cluny, a laminated 5mm thick porcelain stoneware range, used in the Auvergne Layè shade.

Kerlite, consisting of ultrathin large-format ceramic slabs, is a versatile surface solution for contemporary architecture. Slim and hard-wearing, it features fibreglass reinforcement that makes it versatile and easy to use.

Cotto d’Este’s wide range of formats, colours, and surfaces made it possible to use Auvergne Layè, in a 14mm thick version, for the external pavement that surrounds the perimeter of the building. This ensured design continuity.

Auvergne Sablé was chosen for the interior flooring on the ground floor.

Also 14mm thick, it has a slightly rough surface that is non-reflective and more rustic. This can make it ideal for lending residential and commercial locations a style that evokes natural stone.

Finally, the Silvis collection was selected for the floor surfaces of the inner courtyard. Presented in the Robur shade, this 14mm thick porcelain stoneware offers the authentic look of wood, maintaining slight differences in reflection due to minimal variations in depth between the materials’ fibres.

Design principles At Casa Siemens, the internal volumes and the external spaces have been organised based on “Construction Excellence Office Building”, Barreca & La Varra’s own design guidelines.

The architects’ studio’s most significant design innovations include the composition of the façade and the layout of the windows, with particular attention to the corner detailing.

The building consists of a single E form arranged around two paved

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courtyards and enriched with green planting on the ground floor, creating attractive areas that are overlooked by communal spaces such as the auditorium, bar, and restaurant.

The remaining three floors house the offices that are divided into open spaces, private offices, and meeting rooms, from which it is possible to access the garden, auditorium and canteen.

The floors have different heights depending on the function. The ground floor is 5.06 metres, the first floor, second and third floors are 3.90 metres, while the basement is lower at 3.50 metres. The only exceptions are the canteen and conference, both 5.70 metres high.

The south face of the building is flat and linear, and overlooks a new boulevard with wide sidewalks and cycle paths that will bear the name of the firm’s founder.

The north face, on the other hand, is volumetrically more complex, and is the result of an interpretation of the guidelines aimed at making the spatial articulation of the areas around the building more dynamic.

The property is surrounded on the northern and eastern sides with more internal green areas, both to ensure the quality of open spaces and to widen the distance between the new building and those existing on its location (Via Vipiteno).

Four conference rooms perform the functions of the conference centre, with movable walls that can be combined and modified. The canteen, directly connected to the conference centre, is equipped with guest rooms for guests and a free flow restaurant that can open directly onto the outdoor spaces.

In the west wing, there are service areas, such as employee changing

rooms, washing, and cooking, and a goods unloading zone.

The offices on the first, second and third floors have been designed according to the Siemens Office smart working concept and are configured as large open spaces interrupted only by the lifts. In this layout, the five staircases, two of which are equipped with a lift and freight elevator, divide the building on each floor into three macro areas that allow to better spatial organisation.

The entrance to Casa Siemens is highlighted by a ground floor recess that creates a protected outdoor area.

The adjoining lobby manages all pedestrian flow while internal paths lead to spaces dedicated to relaxation, information, and reception.

In front of the entrance of the building there is one of the four sculptures designed by Daniel Libeskind that was commissioned by Siemens.

Overall. the project is highly efficient, since it minimises the impact on the site by concentrating the built element of the overall site, taking advantage of its natural orientation. The plan incorporates active and passive energy saving systems and has a simple structure that allows flexibility of use of space over time.

The structural elements of the building are entirely in reinforced concrete. The dimensions and design criteria provide structural safety, including potential seismic action.

The faรงade was designed specifically for the control of summer solar radiation and winter dispersion.

The installation features alternating opaque horizontal bands (parapet and veil) and transparent (ribbon windows). The ground floor faรงade alternates blind panels in dark grey and transparent stoneware. This has been created to generate a dialogue between the interior spaces and the surrounding open spaces. In general. it is done to reduce the amount of glass surfaces.

On the upper floors the faรงade is ventilated, with a lighter grey Alucobond and glass panels that create elegant reflections. In specific locations, generally near the corners of the building, the ribbon window widens and turns into a floor to ceiling window. All windows have a system of motorised lamellar blinds connected to a solar radiation detection system which regulates the opening to protect the building.

Photography: Carola Merello, and Caterina Bona

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ENGINEERED STONE

Concrete greys dominate bathrooms Taking its cue from granite, Caesarstone’s Turbine Grey quartz surface, with its intense pattern of gun metal, charcoal and jet veining, has been used to create a vanity that is central to an ensuite measuring 9sqm.

This compact bathing space uses a monochromatic colour palette and wall hung vanity to increase the perception of space.

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Left: Airy Concrete from Caesarstone’s “concrete” collection has been used in this bathroom Below: Caesarstone’s Turbine Grey quartz surface is used for a newly renovated small bathroom. Photography credit: Dion Robeson.

The bathroom was designed by Perth-based Studio Atelier building and interior design practice which has specified Caesarstone in a number of its projects. “We choose to use Caesarstone for its well-curated range of finishes and its ability to provide a low-maintenance yet stunning surface that is very client friendly.

In particular, we love how the brand constantly pushes boundaries, releasing ranges that balance our needs for the classic and timeless while also being daring and bold,” said design director, Kimberley Tan. Caesarstone’s Turbine Grey is part of the brand’s collection of 48 quartz surfaces.

The company has also added nine concrete-inspired finishes to its quartz surface collection over the past four years.

It offers a choice of finishes that embrace the essence of industrial materials such as oxidised steel, weathered cement and hand-poured concrete. These patinas and random variations can bring visually arresting style to vanities, shower walls, bath surrounds and shelving. They can create numerous design opportunities due to their ability to pair with sculptural basins, precious metal tapware and raw timber decorative elements.

For bathrooms where there is a lot of glass and polished chrome, Fresh Concrete, Raw Concrete and Sleek Concrete provide hues from the white, grey and taupe palettes.

Excava is one of latest finishes and can be teamed with brushed brass and oil rubbed bronze tapware, and materials such as raw timber, honed stone and woven linen.

The Caesarstone Metropolitan collection offers nine concrete-inspired finishes: Fresh, Sleek, Raw, Frozen Terra, Cloudburst, Rugged, Rough, Airy, Topus and Excava, available in both concrete and rough finishes.

Left: Sensa Indian Black is a granite whose black background mingles with differing clear veins Below: A Dekton Sirius benchtop is paired with a black subway-tiled or patterned splashback; Silestone Eternal Marquina is evocative of the Spanish Black Marquina marble, offering an intense black background with white details and highlights that rise to the surface.

The dark side of kitchens Lighter, muted palettes are slowly making way for a bold trend in kitchen design that promises to take the drama up by a notch: black kitchens.

Using black in the heart of homes infuses a sense of mystery in the space. As a darker colour, it’s also easier to clean and maintain, making it a popular, practical choice for families and those who are passionate about cooking and entertaining guests at home.

For customers ready to make a bold statement with an all-black kitchen, they can use a combination of textures in the same space to make things more interesting with a moodier style. Silestone, Dekton and Sensa surfaces come in glossy, satin or matte finish options, ideal for use with a contrasting texture.

One look can combine a smoothtextured Dekton Sirius benchtop with a black subway-tiled or patterned splashback. Or the monotony can be broken by choosing black surfaces interspersed with veins, flecks and other nuances in it to enhance the luxe factor.

Sensa Indian Black is a granite whose black background mingles with differing clear veins. Silestone Eternal Marquina is evocative of the Spanish Black Marquina marble, offering an intense black background with white details and highlights that rise to the surface.

The Dekton ultra-compact surface

by Cosentino is a mixture of the raw materials that is used to manufacture glass, porcelain materials and quartz surfaces. It can recreate any type of material with a high level of quality.

The surface is manufactured in large format (up to 320cm x 144cm) and thin thicknesses (0.8cm, 1.2cm and 2cm). Known for its superior technical characteristics, Dekton has resistance to UV rays, scratches, stains, thermal shock and very low water absorption.

Semi-precious surfaces Amethyst from Caesarstone’s Concetto range is awash with intense purple and violet hues

Blue Agate is reminiscent of ocean blues and low tide turquoise and aquas

The popularity of hand-made, artisanal crafts has seen renewed interest in the use of semi-precious stones as surface finishes for walls, benchtops, splashbacks and vanities.

Caesarstone has a range where slices of agate, quartz, amethyst and even petrified wood are hand-cut and bound to produce strikingly different surfaces, some of which can be backlit to enhance their unique shading and patterning.

The Concetto collection includes Blue, Gray and Brown Agates, White Quartz, Red Tiger Eye, Amethyst and Petrified Wood. Each surface piece takes a full week to complete by a single skilled craftsman, according to the company.

The brilliant jewel colours of deep sapphire and rich amethyst are just two of the looks on offer. Blue Agate is reminiscent of ocean blues and

low tide turquoise and aquas while Amethyst is awash with intense purple and violet hues. Most of the surface finishes can be backlit to intensify the colour play and markings of these distinctly different crystals.

For earthier, warmer tones Red Tiger Eye, famous for its intense brilliance, is a dramatic combination of earth and fire, sand and sun. Imagine golden browns and rich ochres in a stacked pattern.

Petrified Wood Classic is another finish in this genre, an unusual crystal reflecting ancient tree trunks in a warm, tactile, dense array of blended browns, aged whites and greyed salmon.

White Quart is a virtually transparent white crystal with “barely there” delicate patterns and striations, while Gray Agate embraces the more neutral colour spectrum.

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Left: Kreta from Cosentino’s Dekton Industrial range has a restrained design and a background that smoothly blends dark and light grey Below: Bromo has an organic appearance with a dark blue hue inspired by homogenous metamorphic rock, such as slate Bottom: Kira is the latest Dekton surface inspired by the Gris Pulpis marble, used here in a kitchen

Dekton has six new colours Cosentino has also introduced new surfaces in its Dekton range to the Australian market.

First, it is embracing the dark side with Bromo and Milar with a matte finish. They are based on global trends in the architecture and design industry, and the colours are ideal in a broad range of settings for both in indoor and outdoor applications. They are available in 8, 12 and 20-millimetre thickness.

Bromo from the Natural collection has an organic appearance with a dark blue hue inspired by homogenous metamorphic rock, such as slate.

It has subtle, faded graphics with fine-grained patterning and a smooth texture for the coveted natural aesthetic.

Milar from the Industrial collection has a patinated appearance that suggests the tarnished character of sea-worn ships. Its intricate fusion of grey and brown provides full-bodied colour and delicate patterning is inspired by oxidisation.

Four colours in the Industrial collection also emulate the raw complexity of concrete, and two

colours in the Natural collection reproduce the elegance of natural stone.

Soke, Kreta, Laos and Lunar are surfaces with the industrial aesthetic of concrete. Soke and Kreta are inspired by classic concrete flooring.

Soke has subtle cracks integrated into a grainy background in a versatile range of greys. Kreta has a more uniform and restrained design and a background that smoothly blends dark and light grey.

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Laos and Lunar are reinterpretations of conventional concrete. Dark in colour and with a weathered structure, Laos has a matte finish with grey veining and golden tones. Lunar is lighter in colour with a smooth structure, white base and balanced, harmonious aesthetic.

The Natural collection is a faithful reproduction of the veining formed by geological processes in natural stone.

Kira and Vera are the latest Dekton surfaces in the collection and are inspired by the Gris Pulpis marble.

Kira has a smooth texture with warm, earthy tones along with grey veins of varying intensities. Vera has a veined structure and grey-cement base colour, like a fusion of the natural and industrial.

Left: Caesarstone’s Cloudburst Concrete has been used to full effect in this kitchen renovation Above: The Cloudburst Concrete surface is central to the monochromatic colour scheme of white on white

Light-reflective surfaces Creative interiors trio, Casey Scott, Matt Crocker and Scott Ligertwood of Kinwolf Projects, knew they needed a monochromatic colour scheme of white on white to invest more light in the kitchen project, but at the same time acknowledged the need to push the boundaries in terms of form and finish.

The key feature in the kitchen, that transforms the space from ordinary to extraordinary, is the curved wall.

Shaped from bendable tongue and groove plywood and finished with a two-pack polyurethane spray, the simple curve corals a wealth of hidden storage, plus a laundry, while creating

Contemporary concrete cool

Silver Lake is part of Cosentino’s Silestone Loft series and is is a lighter-coloured surface with a white background superimposed with gentle gradations of grey

a jaw-dropping focal point to the space.

The same white surface finish is applied to the rest of the kitchen cabinetry. Caesarstone’s Cloudburst Concrete, with its light-reflective matte texture, has been used on the rear workbench as well as the large-scale island bench and splashbacks.

“It’s the texture of Cloudburst concrete that we fell in love with,” said Scott. “It has almost a salty acid-wash kind of feel to it. It’s the first time we have used Caesarstone and I think it’s the best benchtop we have ever used.”

While maximising both light and space, the Kinwolf team were keen to

The Silestone Loft series from Cosentino is a range of concreteinspired surfaces that offer a striking take on the industrial look. It debuts in Australia with Brooklyn and Silver Lake, which have a tactile dimension.

The innovation behind this range is its raw texture. Replicating the look and feel of concrete, the surface combines subtle relief and a matte finish. And like concrete, Silestone Loft works in harmony with timber, traditional and contemporary materials while being the centrepiece of design.

Silestone is considered a new category of surface materials, made from up to 90% natural stone.

Slabs are available in 1.2, 2 and 3-centimetre thicknesses, and jumboformat slabs (320 by 158cm) allow for extra-large island benches without joints. The material is highly resistant to scratches, stains and heat, and all benchtops come with a 25-year warranty.

ensure the space was neither sterile nor bland. Natural timber was used to create a counter balance to the white – open storage boxes, chopping boards and utensils and stool tops reference the warm timber tones of the flooring. And the subtle layers of texture and patina in the Caesarstone Cloudburst Concrete “softens” the mix of hard surfaces and monochromatic colour palette.

Caesarstone’s Cloudburst Concrete is part of the brand’s Metropolitan range of nine concrete-inspired finishes.

Photography by River Bennett

Brooklyn has steely, industrial character that highlights the raw and imperfect beauty of concrete

Silver Lake is a lighter-coloured surface with a white background superimposed with gentle gradations of grey. The unique and original colour captures the softer texture and elegance of concrete.

Brooklyn has an intense grey finish with random contrasts and effects.

Designed to be the showpiece of a space, Brooklyn has steely, industrial character that highlights the raw and imperfect beauty of concrete.

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Perth showroom for Cosentino Cosentino has further established itself in Western Australia with a brand-new showroom that provides clients and visitors with easy access to products and expertise.

The company undertook an extensive renovation of the 4000sqm site in Wangara, 25 minutes north of Perth’s CBD, to create a showroom, warehouse and training centre.

The front-of-house showroom displays three Cosentino brands in a range of settings with three island benchtops and wall-hung galleries.

The Sensa island is clad in Orinoco to showcase the rich beauty, colour and veining of the natural stone, and the Silestone island, in soft-grey Eternal Serena, has an integrated Silestone Integrity sink in Blanco Zeus.

In deep-black Domoos, the Dekton island is used as an architectural table for clients to lay out plans and other finishes, and a sample-selection tray has Dekton and Silestone tiles for matching. A working kitchen is also being installed.

The wall-hung galleries feature the latest collections and colours, including Silestone Eternal Natural, Dekton Industrial and Natural collections and the four newest finishes in Sensa Premium. These will be updated as new releases are introduced to Perth customers.

In the warehouse, approximately 10,000 large slabs of Cosentino surfaces demonstrate the extensive variety of available product. An overhead viewing platform provides clients and visitors with a unique perspective of the warehouse and logistical operations.

Upstairs, a training and presentation facility can comfortably accommodate up to 30 people in a classroom setting. Cosentino will host architecture and design students from local tertiary institutions for workshops on stone surfaces to support the material components of their courses. A connecting kitchen finished in Dekton offers these groups the opportunity to see and interact with the high-performance surface in a working environment.

PUBLISHER Vicky Cammiade vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au EDITOR Betty Tanddo betty.tanddo@elitepublishing.com.au TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Philip Ashley philipneilashley@yahoo.com.au INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT Joe Simpson joe.simpson@elitepublishing.com.au ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Sandie Velkovska sandie@elitepublishing.com.au CIRCULATION MANAGER Georgia Gilmour georgia.gilmour@elitepublishing.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN Uber Creative Phone: 03 9988 6112 connect@ubercreative.com.au www.ubercreative.com.au

Top: The four newest finishes in Sensa Premium are displayed in the showroom.

These will be updated as new releases are introduced to Perth customers.

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Below: The Cosentino Perth showroom is located in Wangara (WA)

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