ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 7, Issue 1 - Q1 2014

Volume 7 / Issue 1 • Quarter 1, 2014 • Single Issue $14.95

Industry Forecast 2014 Page 20 Advanced Stone Marketing Strategies Page 28 Growth — The Double-edged Sword Page 30 Fabricator Profile: Surface Link Page 32

New Colors & Materials Spotlight The latest in the surfacing world Page 14

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ISFA Member since 1997

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

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Countertops & Architectural Surfaces welcomes Letters to the Editor.

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

Magazine Credits

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

Contacting ISFA

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About This Magazine

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

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Dave Paxton, President Mike Langenderfer, Immediate Past President Mell Hill, Vice President Erica Hussey, Treasurer Adam Albee, Secretary

Mike Woods, Director Kate Dillenburg, Director Ryan Miller, Director John Hansen, Associate Member Representative Jeff Smith, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Staff

Chuck Sawyer, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Communications Director and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Mike Nolan, Education Director Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative Paula Goncz, Administrative Assistant & Registrar Keith Haight, Project Manager

Cover Photo

The new Dekton material from Cosentino (pictured here in the color Danae, which is in Dekton's Natural Collection) is one of many new materials and colors that has come out recently or will be available in the near future. Read the full story on Page 14.

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 3

CONTENTS

Features 14 New Colors and Materials Spotlight

A look at the latest in the surfacing world

20 Industry Outlook 2014 Economists and indicators all point toward a positive year 28 Advanced Stone Marketing Strategies for Those Who Want More Profits Lessons for leveraging your current assets 30 Growth — ­ The Double-edged Sword

14

Tips for managing the move up

32 Fabricator Profile: Surface Link

How focusing on repairs has led to success for this unique surfacing company

Departments 6 From the Editor 8 Guest Editorial

20

10 Management Matters 11 Calendar of Events 12 Industry News 13 Education Connection 26 From the President 36 ISFA News 41 ISFA Fabricator Directory

28

30

32 4 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

46 Product News 49 Reader Service Form 50 Classifieds/Ad Index

Circle RS#02 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2000

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

With Spring Comes Hope I’ve had my fill of shoveling snow, salting the driveway, school closings

exhibiting there over the past few years were back in full force. IBS and

mid-February, and the tease of spring is just around the corner.

big thing to improve their businesses and eager exhibitors with new

and discussions about the “Polar Vortex.” As I write this editorial, it is

I hope by the time you are reading this the below-freezing temperatures

StonExpo were similarly full of enthusiastic people looking for the next products to help them accomplish that.

and immense snowfalls many of us endured this winter are a thing of the

At the shows I spoke with numerous fabricators, as I do all the time,

days until spring arrives.

everywhere I go, whether it is a networking event, educational seminar,

past. I know that I, for one, will not miss them. I’m counting down the

This time of year, as the snow begins to show signs of melting away, the days start to grow longer and the dream of greener landscapes begins

to return, I always start feeling hopeful. But this year, I think it is not just the dissipation of a long, hard winter that has my spirits up, but also a general feeling that things are improving all-around that has me in an optimistic mood.

Every year in the first issue of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces

magazine I put together a look ahead at the industry and try to gauge whether it is going to be a year full of challenges or opportunities (or

sometimes both). I spend a lot of time looking at a variety of factors that may indicate what to expect, as well as researching what a number of

economists and experts on this or that subject are saying. Then I try to

distill it into a few pages that you can easily digest for the betterment of your business (see Industry Outlook 2014 on Page 20).

Needless to say, over the past half dozen years this has been an

exercise in pain. However, last year we started to see things turn around and it looks like 2014 will follow suit.

But, a forecast is just an educated guess and it should be kept in mind

that a variety of factors — international, regional and local — can affect the overall situation, or just the situation in a given area. That said, though, I believe things are really looking up.

and there is hardly a naysayer to be found among them. It seems

trade show or even the local hardware store, things are really starting to look up. And everyone I talk to lately, whether it’s a machinery manufacturer, a material or equipment supplier, a distributor or a

fabricator, are all abuzz with renewed vigor and hope for a positive and productive year — and that’s in spite of the harsh winter that typically brings depression rather than positivity.

Another opinion that I hold in high regard is that of Aaron Crowley,

an author and speaker who runs a stone business and really knows his

stuff. In his article in this issue on growth (it’s been awhile since that has been a popular subject), he shares his belief that things are booming

and even makes a case that fabricators should not let their growth go unchecked (see Growth — A Double-edged Sword on Page 30).

If you have to have a problem, that is a good one to have.

I hope you are feeling as optimistic as I am about 2014 and the

approaching spring that is just around the corner. After all, spring has

long signified rebirth, renewal and hope, but this year I think it is even more so. Of course, with all of the volatility that has been playing out over the past several years, certainty anything having to do with the economy is a difficult thing. But, one can hope …

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

If you recently attended the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS),

StonExpo or the International Builder Show (IBS), you certainly have

some anecdotal evidence as to the signs of improvement. I just returned from KBIS last week, and by attendance standards, the show seemed to be quite a success. And, many of the companies that had not been

6 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher kevin@isfanow.org

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

Guest Editorial Set Up to Succeed

Transitioning leadership in a family-owned business to the next generation through the fine art of communication

By Jeff Schurman, CAE

Trouble is, those considering retirement may balk

As predictably happens in the wake of

finished learning its many intricacies. At the same

economic downturns, the ensuing recovery prompts many small business owners to hand over the reins of power to the next generation and retire. Or maybe not. Although convinced they’ve placed their life’s work in capable hands—the new CEO may have grown up working in the shop—the now-former CEO may feel it necessary to hang around to help out. What happens next can drive the creative juices, and potentially the new CEO, right out the door. Young people today prefer to learn as they go. And they want to be treated as adults.

Think about it. The Millennial Generation, or Millennials as they’re known, is the population demographic coming of age at just the right time to take the controls of your business as we move past the Great Recession. This is good, because the cohort, born between the early 1980s and early 2000s, was brought up teaching themselves to master information technology, the Internet and smartphones.

The previous generation introduced the remote control; this one knows intuitively how to use it.

In Memoriam

at handing over their business to one who’s not time, for the new leader, having Mom or Dad

looking over their shoulder can be, well, annoying.

Some liken it to a flashback to childhood. They’d prefer to communicate adult-to-adult rather than parent-to-child—and from a few retirement

communities away. Intergenerational conflicts like these need to be addressed upfront by clarifying

and separating key ownership and CEO roles and responsibilities. And get it in writing.

The CEO should be granted complete control of

business operations, albeit subject to the direction of the owner or ownership group. This gives the

CEO space to operate but within the framework of the owners' vision for the firm. For its part, the

ownership group should be responsible to set the direction for the organization, hire the CEO and monitor his or her performance against

quantifiable measures. Such separation of powers works well in large corporations. Bylaws grant the board leadership and oversight duties yet limiting the board’s role in operating the enterprise.

Operational matters remain the realm of the chief executive officer. Small businesses should adopt a similar protocol.

The ISFA Staff and Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to remember Michael Reis, Editor & Associate Publisher of Stone World magazine, who passed suddenly on Feb. 7 at the age of 43 while vacationing in Jamaica. Reis served at the magazine for more than 20 years and was known as a staunch advocate of the stone industry. He received numerous awards and recognitions from various stone-related organizations and his passing is a loss not only to his family and friends, but to all who work in the natural stone trades. ISFA would like to express its deepest sympathies to his loved ones. Cards and letters of condolence may be sent to: Alex Bachrach Stone World 210 Route 4 East, Suite 203 Paramus, NJ 07652 8 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Getting agreements in writing is important to a successful intergenerational leadership transition.

But it doesn’t assure success. For all involved in a small family-owned business, nothing works better to keep the business—and the family— together than clear interpersonal communications.

Communication, both formal and informal, is so important in relationships that it is wise to spend some extra time working on this aspect of the business. And don’t overlook that good listening skills play a large role in effectively communicating with others.

Your high school English teacher was right: Clear communication is vital to clear understanding.

About the Author: Jeff Schurman, CAE, is a leadership and organizational development consultant at Leading Causes, LLC. He has served as adjunct faculty at the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University. Previously, Jeff served for a decade as the executive director of a trade association in the housing finance industry. He holds a master's degree in Leadership and Liberal Studies from Duquesne University a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from La Roche College. He can be reached at jeff@leadingcauses.com.

Circle RS#05 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Management Matters From the desk of Jon Olson

Selling Solid Surface as a Kitchen Countertop If you are offering solid surface countertops, it’s

Speaking of colors, consumers spend quite a bit

can be a challenge right now. There are several

Naturally, countertops are a big part of the color

no secret that selling in the residential market

of time choosing colors for their homes.

reasons for that. Some say the price tag is too

picture. This is where solid surface really shines.

high. Others say granite is what many people are

There are hundreds of colors to choose from.

asking for. Still others would say it’s because of

Sometimes we joke about the large amount of

the amount of competition. If you let these

new colors that come out each year, but there’s

reasons become hurdles, then selling solid

a reason for that. Color trends are always

surface tops could seem very difficult. Let’s look

changing and people change, too. Colors that

at some ways to jump over the hurdles and

worked 10 years ago may seem tired and dated

make these important sales.

today. Solid surface has the advantage of being able to keep up with these changes. Sell that to

The best way to sell anything is to know your

your customers. Work with color. You will be the

product and to be aware of trends pertaining to it. So what do we know about solid surface as a product?

Photo courtesy of Jeff Baumgart

designer or fabricator everyone goes to.

Also, be sure to take the time to do your

First, it is a scratch-resistant, heat-resistant,

Displaying a coved backsplash in a showroom is a great selling tool.

growth of mold and mildew when cleaned

stop with your countertop? Every kitchen

social media. It’s vital to gather information to be

should have a cove backsplash top for

Selling solid surface is becoming easier. One

nonporous surface that will not support the properly. Also, it has inconspicuous or invisible seams. And because of solid

surface’s workability it can be crafted like no other surface.

showroom that has a solid surface display customers to appreciate. When you think

about selling tools, this is an investment that will bring results.

Every kitchen showroom that has a solid surface display should have a cove backsplash top for customers to appreciate. When you think about selling tools, this is an investment that will bring results.

same way. Let’s stop and think about that.

Consumers pay for the beautiful crown and

cabinets to look custom, so why should you 10 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

clients. It’s all about the color. Clients want to

large radiuses and drop-down end panels on an

Another designer said, “I can’t believe when I

imagination go wild on designs. Curvy tops,

island can all be done with other surfaces. But with solid surface it’s much easier to do, thus

lowering fabrication cost. You can have a great

Things are trending really well right now in favor

kitchen, a solid surface top can be fitted the

used to work doesn’t fit the design needs of my

A fabricator told me, “Today’s kitchen styles are

Think about a cove backsplash with a scribe

has been coped to fit and follow any wall in the

designer told me, “It’s time for a change. What

With solid surface, you can really let your

Let’s look at trends.

gobs of silicone. Just like the crown molding that

successful in the solid surface world.

stand out. They need different options.”

Here’s an example:

spectacular. You see no large visible gaps or

design shows, trade shows, or my favorite,

Here’s another example of knowing the product:

design and stay within budget.

strip. The way it fits against the wall is just

homework on what’s trending. Use magazines,

of solid surface. Years ago if you wanted to

stand out you had to have a granite top, but that is changing. Homeowners are looking for

something different. The styles are trending in

kitchen designs to a cleaner, contemporary look.

Contemporary means more solid colors, such as whites, grays and blacks. And solid surface can deliver that look.

becoming more understated and neutral." show the solid surface how much enthusiasm there is for it.”

So prepare yourself. With a well-prepared presentation of both the product and how trends affect design, there isn’t anything that can hold you back from selling solid surface.

About the Author Jon Olson works for DuPont as a key account consultant for Corian and Zodiaq surfaces in New England and has more than 30 years' involvement in the solid surface industry, with experience in all aspects of fabrication and sales. He is the past recipient of ISFA’s Fabricator of the Year and Innovator Awards and can be reached at jonathan.m.olson@ dupont.com.

Calendar of Events SFA Workshop March 6 – 7 Mobile, Ala.

Braxton-Bragg Polishing Pro Training

March 11 – 13 Knoxville, Tenn.

(877) 493-0205

Regent Stone Products Engineered Stone & Granite Repair Course

March 13 – 14 Virginia Beach, Va. (800) 624-8210

MIA Stone Summit March 20 Raleigh, N.C. (440) 250-9222

Braxton-Bragg Lavina Training & Certification March 25 – 26 Knoxville, Tenn.

(877) 493-0205

ISFA Total Fabricator Training – Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools April 7 – 9 Oakland, N.J. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org MIA Stone Summit

April 17 Edison, N.J. (440) 250-9222

ISFA Business Boot Camp April 22 – 23 Pittsburgh, Pa. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org Coverings 2014

April 29 – May 2 Las Vegas, Nev. (703) 683-8500

MIA Stone Summit May 14 Toronto, Ontario Canada (440) 250-9222

ISFA Total Fabricator Training – Solid Surface May 19 – 22 Morganton, N.C. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org Carrara Marmotec 2014

May 21 – 24 Merina di Carrara, Italy +39 0585-787-6022

Braxton-Bragg Fab King Training May 27 Knoxville, Tenn.

(877) 493-0205

IWF 2014 (with new Countertops Pavilion) Aug. 20 – 23 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333

Regent Stone Products Engineered Stone ISFA Total Fabricator Training – & Granite Repair Course Solid Surface June 5 – 6 Sept. 15 – 18 Virginia Beach, Va. Morganton, N.C. (800) 624-8210 (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org SFA Workshop June 12 – 13 Portage, Mich.

MIA Stone Summit

June 19 Dulles, Va. (440) 250-9222

ISFA Total Fabricator Training –

Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools June 23 – 25 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org SFA Workshop July 10 – 12 Kernersville, N.C.

ISFA Total Fabricator Training – Solid Surface July 14 – 17 Morganton, N.C. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org ISFA Total Fabricator Training – Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools Aug. 4 – 6 Oakland, N.J. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org SFA Workshop

Aug. 7 – 8 Liberty Lake, Wash.

ISFA CEO Roundtable Aug. 19 Atlanta, Ga. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org Countertops Symposium

Aug. 19 Atlanta., Ga. (404) 693-8333

MIA Stone Summit

Sept. 19 Waite Park, Minn.

(440) 250-9222

Canada Woodworking East Sept. 26 – 27 Montreal, Quebec Canada (888) 454-7469

Concrete Décor Show Oct. 1 – 3 Ft. Worth, Texas (877) 935-8906

ISFA Total Fabricator Training – Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools Oct. 6 – 8 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org StonExpo/Surfaces/TileExpo East Oct. 19 – 22 Miami Beach, Fla. (866) 550-6808

ISFA Annual Member Meeting Oct. 24 Miami Beach, Fla. (877) 464-7732 gatherings@isfanow.org MIA Stone Summit

Nov. 6 Tempe, Ariz.

(440) 250-9222

MIA Stone Summit

Nov. 11 Anaheim, Calif.

(440) 250-9222

Submit your event for consideration in our Calendar by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 11

In the Industry Wilsonart Exclusive Distributor for Antimicrobial Eos in 38 States Wilsonart is now the exclusive distributor of Antimicrobial Cupron Enhanced EOS Surfaces in 38 U.S. states. The copper-enhanced material kills greater than 99.9 percent of Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria within two hours of exposure and is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Public Health Claims. “Cupron Enhanced EOS Surfaces is the first synthetic hard surface proven to kill specific disease-causing bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA),” stated Joseph Elia, Wilsonart Solid Surface Sales Manager. “With Cupron Enhanced EOS Surfaces, our sales force will be able to provide expanded options and substantial healthcare solutions to healthcare organizations, architects and healthcare consultants among others.”

MIA Announces New Board of Directors The Marble Institute of America (MIA) has announced the results of its board of directors' election. David Carnevale, president of Carnevale & Lohr, of Bell Gardens, Calif., Brenda Edwards, owner/general manager of TexaStone Quarries of Garden City, Texas, and Robert Zavagno Jr., president of Cleveland Marble Mosaic Co. of Cleveland, Ohio, have been elected by the MIA membership to serve five-year terms. Carnevale will represent Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Edwards will represent Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas.

Zavagno fills an at-large position.

NSF, Natural Stone Council Develop Stone Sustainability Standard NSF International and the Natural Stone Council (NSC) have developed NSC 373 Sustainability Assessment for Natural Dimension Stone. It establishes criteria for sustainable development aspects of stone production while defining environmental requirements for stone quarrying and production. Under NSC 373, the NSF Sustainability Division will evaluate natural stone quarrying and fabrication operations in several key impact categories, including water, transportation, site management, land reclamation and adaptive reuse, and management of excess process materials and waste. Certification to NSC 373 is based 12 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Bio-Glass — Interior Innovation Award Winner 2014 Topaz Blue, the latest color of Coverings ETC’s Bio-Glass designed by Ofer Mizrahi, was bestowed the Interior Innovation Award, an international design award of the German Design Council. The annual awards recognize outstanding design in the home furnishings industry. Bio-Glass received the “Interior Innovation Award - Winner 2014” distinction in the “Wall, Floor, Ceiling” products category. on point totals to achieve Bronze, Silver, Gold

slabs measure 120 in. long by 55 in. wide, and

periodic re-evaluation is required to maintain

3cm. Diresco has been operating out of Belgium

or Platinum level certification. Monitoring and

certification. When finalized as an ANSI standard, it is expected to assist in acceptance of NSC 373 by trade and sustainability stakeholders.

Full certification for stone products will be

achieved through a combination of NSC 373

certification for quarries and processors along with chain of custody (NSC COC) compliance for the rest of the distribution chain. The NSC

COC program is currently in development and near completion.

Coverings Trade Show Celebrates 25th Anniversary

is available in three thicknesses: 1.2cm, 2cm or for numerous years, but is new to the United

States. Aetna will first introduce the product in the Chicago and Rockford, Ill., markets before

expanding into the other areas it services. Diresco USA, headquartered in Santa Ana, Calif., plans to offer its quartz surfacing material in several other major U.S. cities within the next two years.

U.S. Green Building Council Launches LEED v4 The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) launched LEED v4, the newest version of

the Leadership in Energy and Environmental

The Coverings tile and stone exposition and

Design green-building ratings program. It is

at this year’s show from April 29 to May 2 at

in five years. The update builds upon the

showcases new products, tools and machinery

and also offers a new system that readies all

opportunities and training and education on an

levels. Highlights of LEED v4 include new market

techniques for distributors, contractors,

distribution centers, hospitality, existing schools,

official anniversary party on April 30 to honor

simplified LEED credit submittal requirements

will receive a 25th anniversary commemorative

materials; and new impact categories, such as

conference is celebrating its 25th anniversary

the first major revision to the ratings program

the Las Vegas Convention Center. The expo

fundamentals established in previous versions

and provides certification programs, networking

LEED projects in a portfolio to perform at higher

array of topics from design trends to installation

sectors such as data centers, warehouses and

installers and others. The show will host an

existing retail and mid-rise residential projects;

this milestone. Additionally, show attendees

and descriptive step-by-step reference guide

collectible at the show.

climate change, human health, water resources,

Aetna Plywood to Distribute Diresco Quartz Surfacing

natural resources.

biodiversity, green economy, community and

Aetna Plywood, based in Maywood, Ill., is now

Klingspor Offers New Catalog

Surfacing in the Midwest United States. Aetna

Catalog. The catalog features the company’s

Indiana and Minnesota and services 15 states.

sheets, rolls, specialty abrasives and tools, as

in polished or honed finish in 26 colors and

catalog is available upon request.

the exclusive distributor for Diresco Quartz

Klingspor introduced its new 2014 Woodworking

Plywood operates out of four locations in Illinois,

full range of abrasive materials — belts, discs,

The Diresco quartz surfacing product comes

well as, reference information. The full color

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

Education Connection The ISFA Continuing Education Program ISFA is pleased to announce that it has been

The ISFA Continuing

for the American Institute of Architects (AIA)

has four levels of

approved as a provider of continuing education Continuing Education System.

ISFA is also pleased to announce that it already has five sponsors for the program: Aetna

Plywood; Cosentino; Diresco; Dixie Plywood and Lumber Company; and Meganite.

The Continuing Education System was developed by the AIA to:

1. Support life-long professional learning for AIA Members

2. Record member participation in education for AIA membership

3. Provide members opportunities to meet their MCE requirements

As an Approved Provider for the AIA

Continuing Education System (CES), ISFA has

participants:

company who, through their financial support,

helps with the development and execution of ISFA’s Continuing Education Program.

CONTRIBUTING MEMBER: An ISFA member company who provides personnel

resources and content for

the development of specific

courses for ISFA’s Continuing Education Program.

SUPPORTING MEMBER:

ISFA members. ISFA is responsible for the

who, through their financial

the point-of-contact for the AIA and other

development and execution of ISFA’s Continuing

continuing education programs. The ongoing

MEMBER: An ISFA member company who

courses through a program with participating

An ISFA Fabricator member

coordination of the CEU efforts, plus provides

support, helps with the

professional organizations that conduct

Education Program

responsibility of ISFA, with guidance from

program participants. ISFA will also train and register presenters who will be qualified to

deliver approved courses on behalf of ISFA. There are currently three courses approved for the AIA CES:

ADA for the Decorative Surfaces Industry — Course #ISFA13G4101 – 1 LU/HSW

Solid Surface Design Basics — Course #ISFA13SS1101 – 1 LU/HSW

Understanding & Using the ISFA Quartz

Standard — Course #ISFA13Q1103 – 1 LU/HSW

Figure 1

SPONSOR: An ISFA member

developed content for a variety of approved

administration of the CEU programs is the

In

Education Program

desires to participate in ISFA’s Continuing

Education Program by providing trained and

registered presenters capable of delivering ISFA educational programs

Participants in the program will be able to

present approved continuing education courses as representatives of ISFA.

Because AIA and other organizations have

specific requirements concerning the content,

structure and presenters for CEU classes, ISFA

Figure 2 order to be able to use ISFA continuing education content, members will need to participate in the program through one of the categories indicated in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, there will be a number of benefits associated with participating in the ISFA Continuing Education Program.

For information concerning the ISFA Continuing Education Program or to request an application for participation, please contact Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org or Paula Goncz at Paula@ isfanow.org or by phone at (877) 464-7732.

ISFA CE Program Sponsors:

will supervise and conduct the development

of content for approved classes. ISFA will also organize, train and register individuals who

will be qualified and approved to deliver ISFA

Other courses are already in the works, such

continuing education content in accordance

Surface, which is being worked on by Andrew

programs in which ISFA participates. See Figure

as Advanced Fabricating Techniques for Solid

with the necessary requirements of the various

Dreves of Fabricator Member Company A.S.S.T.

1 for the fees associated with this administration.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 13

New Colors and Materials Spotlight Abet Laminati

Stratificato, a decorative high pressure, self-supporting, compact laminate by Abet Laminati, is used for countertops, furniture, backsplashes, gym lockers, toilet partitions or any laminate application requiring extra strength, durability and design.

With new colors and digital designs, it is offered in more than 500 colors and patterns, 30 finishes, eight sizes and various thicknesses.

The surface is composed of decorative paper impregnated with melamine resin. Several colors in 12mm thicknesses are in stock in North America. Digital print is also possible ­— any design can be printed right on the surface.

It is Greenguard certified and has low VOC emissions.

Circle RS#25 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Avonite

Avonite Surfaces will be launching its new Symphony collection in April. The six new solid surface designs were inspired by the majesty of marble concert halls and opera houses, and named for the symphonic sounds that elevate the spirits within them.

The unique patterns can also be custom-colored to perfectly match any design needs. The collection is reminiscent of natural stone, sharing the same random patterns and movement seen in nature. Unlike natural stone, however, solid surface is nonporous making it naturally hygienic.

14 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Avonite’s Right-Sized sheet can be optimized to fit

the demands of any project, creating added value by minimizing seams and waste.

Circle RS#26 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Brilliant Surfacing

Cordia Quartz Surface, from the

makers of Brilliant Solid Surface, is introducing six new colors this year. The new colors are Cloud

Gray, Cloud White, Pure White, Fine Slate, Bianco Carrara

and Noir St Laurent. Cordia is nonporous, making it highly

resistant to staining without the need for sealing, polishing or

reconditioning. It is also scratch-resistant and versatile. It

also comes with a manufacturer’s 10-year limited warranty.

Circle RS#27 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Caesarstone

Inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful natural marble,

Caesarstone’s newest designs

represent the five new additions

to the Classico collection, all with a unique blend of earthy tones and delicately infused veins.

These new designs are all made using cutting‐edge technology

and are completely unique and exclusive to the Caesarstone

brand. The five designs include:

Frosty Carrina, a soft ivory white with delicate powdery gray veins; Dreamy Marfil, a blend of creamy beiges with gentle brown veins; London Gray, an opaque light gray with soft

charcoal veins; Piatra Gray, a slate gray with chalky white

veins; and Emperadoro, a fusion deep browns with maple colored veins.

The new colors and design options have all the stain, scratch and water resistance qualities of quartz, making them suitable for kitchen countertops, backsplashes, vanities, wall linings and furniture.

Pacific, Mediterranean, Bering, Hudson and Atlantis, all available in the polished finish. As with all Silestone quartz products, the Ocean Series is nonporous and never needs to be sealed. It is easy to clean and has high scratch, stain and heat resistance.

Circle RS#28 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#29 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Cambria

Coverings ETC

Cambria introduced its new Galloway design, as part of the company’s new Coastal Collection of quartz surfacing.

The Coastal Collection distinguishes itself by the grand and vast organic movement flowing throughout each design creating a masterful clashing of rock, sand and water. These designs illustrate a balance of neutral tones with striking variation and glistening streams. With its distinct appeal, the Coastal Collection creates a unique and dramatic look.

Galloway is an amalgam of neutral tones; the white of a sun-bleached sail, the black of a steel anchor–with a spray of glittering gold. Although no two pieces are the same in their movements, the spirit and tonality of Galloway remains consistent. With the addition of the Coastal Collection and Galloway, the company’s design palette now offers 103 designs.

Cambria will continue to develop and add designs to the Coastal Collection throughout 2014 and beyond.

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

Cosentino

Cosentino has released its new Dekton product and is also introducing its new Ocean Series of Silestone quartz surfacing. Dekton is an ultra-compact surface made from a mixture of inorganic raw materials Dekton found in glass, porcelain tile and natural quartz. The proprietary process by which it is made, Particle Sintering Technology (PST), uses extreme heat and pressure to create its technical characteristics.

These include UV resistance for color stability outdoors, exceptional strength, very low water absorption, Silestone Ocean Collection and high resistance to impacts, scratches and abrasion for use in high-traffic areas. Dekton’s resistance to thermal shock enables the product to be used in any climate, creating potential for design to flow from the indoors to outdoor spaces. These unique characteristics make it suitable for flooring, countertops and bathrooms. It is available in 12 white, gray, black, and natural stone hues and in three polished, matte and slate finishes. It is made in large format slabs (126 by 56 in.), and available in three thicknesses: 1.2cm, 2cm and 3cm.

The new Silestone Ocean Series is the most exotic Silestone color series available. The collection features six colors with bold patterns and a wide range of movement, offering a natural aesthetic similar to that of exotic granite. The series showcases unique veining, adding a distinctive look to any kitchen or bathroom, and includes the colors Arctic,

Topaz Blue is the latest color added to Covering ETC’s Bio-Glass collection.

All of the Bio-Glass colors are 100 percent upcycled and made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled glass. Topaz Blue rounds out a roster of six colors including White Diamond, Oriental Jade, Fossil Amber, Malachite and Emerald Forest. The material is stainproof and scratch-resistant making it suitable for kitchen countertops, backsplashes, vanities, partitions, facades and wall coverings. It is available in sheet sizes measuring 110 by 49 in. and is ¾ in. thick. The layers of compressed glass within the panels allow for the retention and play of light, and no colorants, epoxies or resins are added during the manufacturing process.

Circle RS#30 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Curava

Curava offers a slab material that contains sea shells and 100 percent recycled glass particulate and is resin-based. It comes in seven colors: Mocha, Toffee, Wheat, Arctic, Taupe, Lemongrass and Savaii. It is 3cm thick and is suitable for indoor use in countertops, vanity tops, table tops, and shower and tub surrounds. It is made in Italy, and is stain-, scratch- and heatresistant. The material has more than 30 percent recycled content, with 70 percent of that content being post-consumer. The majority of the recycled glass content comes from beer and wine bottles from landfills; window and windshield glass waste; and broken bottles from bottling plants. It contains no VOCs and may contribute toward LEED points.

Circle RS#31 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Diamond Surfaces

Diamond Surfaces introduces a new solid surface color series, “Clear Q.” These colors feature clear chips combined with solid background colors. Many customers have expressed an interest in solid colors with quartz-like translucent chips to combine the appearance of quartz and the benefits of solid surface in one product. Not only can designers select one of our standard colors but almost any color can be duplicated for a unique custom look.

Circle RS#32 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 15

New Colors and Materials Spotlight Domain Industries

cost-effective and desirable product, the company has developed a

colors to its Affinity Surfaces line of

The material is available in eight colors: Port Laurent, Mogano Provenza,

Domain Industries introduced 17 new

strong support program that provides proven methods of marketing.

solid surface material. These color

Marrone Giallastro, Caramello Rosato, Siena Matisse, Avorio Persa,

additions inspire a wide range of

Cremino Imperiale and Bianco Delicatus.

design ideas within the kitchen and

Circle RS#35 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

bath industry, focusing on unique

patterns found nowhere else. The Affinity collection boasts 69 colors in total, including 23 top-selling “Essentials” colors that cover more than 80 percent of the market demand for standard solid surface patterns. Affinity also

includes the “Surreal” Collection, a dramatically unique approach to solid surface.The new colors are as follows: (Essentials Collection) Rain; Frost;

Cream; Crest; Serenity; Eminent; Carbon; Mist; Terrain; Reflection; (Surreal Collection) Ethereal Snow; Natural Summit; Elision Rock; Sepia Stone; Radiant Basalt; Shimmering Coal (pictured here); and Celestial Azure.

Circle RS#33 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

DuPont

Four new deep, rich and

more durable DuPont Corian

solid surface colors featuring Deep Color™ Technology

are now available. This new proprietary technology is

designed to deliver a product

with unique and greater depth

of color with improved heat tolerance, along with a 50 percent reduction in scratch appearance. The colors are Deep Night Sky, a midnight black with

a galaxy of translucent particles; Deep Nocturne, a classic jet black; Deep Black Quartz, a black landscape with an array of ivory specks; and Deep Antrhacite, a black base with minute flecks of silver.

DuPont is also working on a new wireless charging technology for

smartphones and tablets integrated into Corian solid surface worktops, a product of DuPont’s participation in the Power Matters Alliance.

Circle RS#34 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Empatico

Because quartz surfacing is

gaining market share, Empatico

has developed a brand of quartz surfacing — QuartzNaturalZ — that resembles exotic granites.

The Treasures of the World

Collection was created with many of the visual characteristics that

give exotics their beauty, but with the qualities inherent in quartz

surfacing. Empatico is a vertically

integrated manufacturing and marketing company that provides natural stone and quartz surfacing solutions. It is currently searching for and

interviewing surfacing professionals that have interest in supplementing and enhancing their current product offerings. QuartzNaturalZ will

provide another way to keep existing clients happy, gain new clients

and provide an additional profit center. In addition to providing a quality, 16 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Endurant

Endurant fortifies its washroom

systems against commercial demands offering customizable solutions to

keep them clean and safe without the pressure of constant maintenance. It does this by using its BioPrism solid surface product manufactured at its

headquarters in Wisconsin that uses a bio-resin blend and recycled content.

Washrooms and sterile environments are constantly under siege from

mold and mildew—and it has been a never-ending crusade to keep these

areas clean. BioPrism solid surface was developed to rescue both

facility maintenance teams and building users from this battle. BioPrism is available in a number of finished products including shower and tub

surrounds, receptors, wall panels, privacy partitions, vanities and more.

The material is antimicrobial and nonporous to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and developed with renewable materials, including

bio-content, so it’s a responsible choice for the planet. Wall panels can be hard seamed to minimize the number of areas for dirt to hide and can be produced in large sheet sizes to reduce the number of seams needed and the amount of waste going into landfills.

Circle RS#36 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Formica

Formica Corporation has added four sweeping granites to its

best-selling 180fx Collection.

180fx laminate designs capture

the beautiful detail and veining of

exotic, high-end surfaces without sacrificing the maintenance-free

and affordable nature of laminate.

The 2014 introduction includes

River Gold 180fx, a creamy-white

granite with linear veins of gold and

gray highlighted by chocolate-brown crystals; Lapidus Brown 180fx, a versatile and timeless granite that features gold tones and iron veining highlighted by creamy white crystals and gray and black pebbles;

Magma Black 180fx, a dramatic stone in which each slab appears as if

liquid lava has been poured over it; and Red Dragon 180fx, an exotic red with dramatic veining and gray crystals.

Formica also expanded its residential HPL collection of laminates with Premiumfx finishes in 2014 to include seven new patterns that answer

Hanwha

the trend for soft stones, white stones and non-traditional materials,

HanStone’s newest designs are making a big

including quartz-inspired designs. All Formica laminate patterns

impact on the quartz industry. The three new

are designed to minimize environmental impact and are available

designs are Fusion, with a natural white vein;

with IdealEdge profiles. Suitable for curved, clipped or 90-degree corner installations, IdealEdge decorative edges transcend the

Epic, with a stunning small vein; and Crimson,

customary limitations of laminate by eliminating flat edges and

a rich red. Hanstone quartz is manufactured in

brown seams.

In addition to expanded laminate offerings, Formica has introduced 13

new solid surfacing patterns, adding a new range of quartz-like patterns and some contemporary shimmer to the brand’s collection of smooth, seamless and nonporous solid surfacing products.

London, Ontario, in 54 distinct colors. Hanwha

also manufactures Hanex solid surface, which

offers a wide range of 69 industry trending colors and

patterns.

Circle RS#39 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#37 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Lamitech

Glass Recycled

Lamitech, the largest

Glass Recycled Surfaces,

manufacturer of high pressure

under new ownership, is

laminates in Latin America,

focusing on multifamily,

takes it to the limit with Big

hospitality and institutional

Scale Granites. Big, bold

installations. Offering turnkey

patterns make dramatic

casting, fabrication and

installation that rivals granite, Glass Recycled Surfaces is introducing a new “green”

building material to these expanding markets. Made in the USA and

extensively tested for performance, its modern, vibrant colors enhance and complement any color scheme.

Circle RS#38 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

statements showcasing the

natural, varied colors in the veins of a real slab. And the bigger the better — these extreme designs don’t have any pattern repetition found in traditional laminates. The Big Scale Granites are available in three stone-like hues:

Lapidus, with exquisite and infinite gold tones; Santo Cinza, with a vibrant gray and neutral color scheme; and Santo Branco, with a color swirl of

cool and warm grays and whites. The company’s high pressure laminate

designs also include woods, concrete, metallics, pearlescents, solids and

ISFA Member since 2005 Circle RS#06 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 17

New Colors and Materials Spotlight textured surfacing options. They are all available in sheet sizes of 5 by 8 ft.,

and impervious to chemicals. The product is also wear-, scratch- and

special finish of Splendor and Pietra. The papers used in the materials are

Additionally, it is lightweight and easy to install. Neolith products are

5 by 12 ft. and 4 by 8 ft. They are offered in gloss and matt finishes and the all FSC certified and all of the laminates offer low VOC emissions and are Greenguard certified.

heat-resistant, and its colors do not change when exposed to UV rays. available in the United States and worldwide through a large network of distributors.

Circle RS#40 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#42 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Mystera

Mystera Acrylic Solid Surface is now available to meet the

growing demand for veined solid surface countertops and vertical applications. Striking designs

combined with the versatility of

solid surface offer the commercial designer or homeowner beauty with practical performance.

Fabricators can thermoform

Samsung

Samsung is launching eight new colors of Staron solid surface that will be featured in 2014. The new colors have a range of

tones, from dark to light. They are Metallic Galaxy, Metallic SatinGold, Metallic

SleekSilver, Metallic Yukon, Onyx, Quarry

Starred, Quasar White and Sanded Icicle.

This brings the total number of Staron

colors to more than 75, including 20 with

sheets to meet the specifications of architects and designers for each

recycled content and 19 in the Tempest

linear veined colors. The linear veined colors infuse a fresh new look of

particulates that provide remarkable depth.

pallets. Additional colors are in development based on surveys from

quartz surfacing.

project. The initial rollout of 16 colors includes multidirectional and

Series, which have quartz-like translucent

natural veining patterns for some of the top “go to” colors in designers’

Samsung also offers 38 colors of Radianz

both commercial and residential designers. Currently offered in 12mm

thick standard sized 30- by 144-in. sheets, select colors of Mystera solid surface will also be available in 6mm thick shower panels, up to 60 in.

Circle RS#43 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

wide, later this year. Competitive pricing allows fabricators, millwork

Seieffe

companies and dealers to maximize margins while delivering value to

Seieffe Corporation has

customers.

introduced its new Pietre

Circle RS#41 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Preziose Collection of

Neolith

OKITE quartz surfacing.

a marble-aesthetic

inspired by the look of

Classtone,

feels like stone and has

Neolith now offers

This new collection is

product collection,

natural onyx. It looks and

suitable for kitchen

that is 93 percent natural quartz, the fourth hardest mineral known

interior wall cladding

the surface creating a dramatic, modern look and can be used for

coating and exterior

in which natural onyx is used. It is available in 5/8-in. thickness in three

countertops, flooring,

to man. This innovative new surfacing allows light to move through

applications, furniture

countertops, wall cladding, partitions and any other indoor application

facades. The pattern

standard colors: red, white and yellow.

is imprinted on Neolith’s reliable, high-performance brand of sintered compact surface, a new material category in the industry. Neolith

Digital Design (NDD), the state-of-the-art decoration technique, gives the product the visual appeal of marble with the strength, durability

and seamless appearance innate to Neolith. The product comes in four intense colors: Pulpis, Marfil, Estauario and Marquina. It is available in the newly introduced format size of 125 by 59 in. and thickness of ½

in., offering a larger, thicker slab for kitchen and bathroom countertops, which can be easily cut to measure to fit customer needs. The product is 100 percent natural with a high content of recycled composition and

has near-zero porosity, making it hygienic, stain-resistant, easy to clean 18 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

a material composition

and bathroom

And while natural onyx does not come in custom colors, OKITE Pietre Preziose is available for large projects in custom colors, allowing for a high level of customization. Its large slab sizes (120 by 55 in.) create

fewer seams in installation and create less waste while offering all the benefits and performance of quartz surfacing. It is easy to fabricate

and install, and is a LEED contributing product. The company has also improved the formula of its Bianco Assoluto whitest white, making

it even whiter and has developed two new Venati Collection colors: Calacatta Gold and Calacatta White.

Circle RS#44 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

US Surface Warehouse

1.5cm-thick slabs. In addition, fully fabricated countertops for both

introducing a new line of solid surface

of-the-art production facilities in Rome, Ga., and LaMirada, Calif.

US Surface Warehouse will be

to its LivingStone product offering

this year. Sold directly to fabricators,

four new colors will be introduced and include: Rolling Plains, Sand Dollar,

Stratus and Swirled Surf. Mimicking

residential and commercial projects can be ordered from our stateNationwide delivery is available for slabs and fabricated countertops.

VT Quartz is also available for cut-to-size multifamily projects requiring domestic or international fabrication.

Circle RS#47 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

the look of natural stone and

Wilsonart

highlighting veined patterns, the warm

Seven of eight new Wilsonart Solid

and earthy tones of these colors provoke an organic sophistication that

Surface designs are inspired by

truly captures the essence of nature.

urban landscape. The new Cityscape Collection features seamless and

Circle RS#45 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

sparkling surfacing material, sprinkled

Vicostone

with quartz-like translucent or glittery

Vicostone is introducing to the

chips, that is resistant to fade, heat,

U.S. market four new colors that complement its Heritage Stone Series. The new products are

Maple Harvest Solid Surface

Gold Glitz, Night Stars, Clouded, Paris

Life” theme in mind. The new

Fog, Chipped Chocolate and Maple

colors are made using Breton

Harvest (pictured here), as well as a

technology with special molds

classic white offering in the form of

and a color technique unique to are Gioia Carrara; Royal Gray; Akoya; and Taj Mahal.

Circle RS#46 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

with FDA food contact requirements.

The new designs include Garnet Glitz,

developed with a “Nature and

Vicostone. These marble colors

mold, mildew and stains and complies

Avalanche Melange.

Spring Carnival High Definition Laminate

Wilsonart also has 19 new laminate designs in both the High Definition

Collection and Premium Collection. The newest offering is Spring

VT Stone Surfaces

Carnival (pictured here), which debuted at the recent KBIS expo and

Iowa, introduces the VT Quartz

accented with gray tones that look like white Brazilian granite. This joins

VT Quartz is currently available in

Florence Gold, Bianco Romano, Golden Romano and Cosmos Granite.

to a full 20-color pallet during 2014.

grain designs — Old Mill Oak, which has a rich, dark chocolate oak

also available for large projects or

colors in the series are large-scale stone designs: Breccia Nouvelle,

features both 2cm and 3cm slabs

Pesco, Golden Lightning, Mocha Fantastico, Chocolate Brown Granite

in a 126- by 63-in. format can also

technology to add durable, long-lasting protection and resistance to

Another custom order option is

Circle RS#48 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

VT Stone Surfaces of Holstein,

is a confectioner’s overture of white chocolate and creamy brown,

line of hard surface countertops.

six other granite-inspired colors: Winter Carnival, Summer Carnival,

eight colors and will be expanding

The Premium Collection includes 12 entries, of which two are wood

Custom colors and patterns are

look, and Truss Maple that is a light blocked maple. The other 10

stocking colors. The quartz line

Breccia, Typhoon Gold, Typhoon Ice, Italian White di Pesco, Café di

in a 118- by 55-in. format. Slabs

and Madre Perola. All of the new designs feature exclusive AEON

be manufactured for select colors.

scratches, scuffs and everyday wear.

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

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

Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org Circle RS#07 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 19

Industry 2014 Economists and indicators all point toward a positive year

By Kevin Cole, Editor

U.S. Housing Starts Historical Data

F

Year Total

Single- Multifamily family

orecasting is by nature a tricky endeavor. The general economy has a huge number of complex interlocking parts that all affect each other in a variety of ways that are difficult to predict with any real confidence. Because the big-picture conditions are subject to change based on any number of factors, they can have extensive effects on subsets of the market. However, looking at particular industry segments can help to paint a good estimation of how the year will look for individual markets, such as the countertop industry.

2006 1,801,000 1,465,000 336,000

To do this requires examining a variety of

to the most recent forecast. And other

2011 608,800 430,600 178,200

tempered with views of the overall economy

Washington, D.C.-based publisher of business

indicators and factoring in expert voices

put forth by experienced economists. And that

is the challenge with creating an article such as the one before you.

However, having done that, there is some

confidence that 2014 will be a solid year for the countertop industry. Of course, conditions are subject to local and regional factors that may not be taken into account here.

While the general economy is still growing at a pace that is slower than we would like, a look

at specific areas of the economy that influence the countertop industry, such as housing,

construction, home improvement/remodeling and cabinetry show very positive signs for 2014.

The General Economy There is little doubt that 2013 was a relatively good year when compared to the several

years that preceded it. And, general economic

consensus leans toward even better conditions

economic forecasters, such as Kiplinger, a

forecasts and personal finance advice, predict a GDP averaging 2.7 percent or better.

Other positive signs for the general economy are

continued decreases in unemployment, low short-

2010 587,000 471,000 116,000

2012 780,600 535,300 245,300 2013 923,400 617,800 305,600 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 1 than 923,000 housing starts in the United

rate dropped to 6.7 percent, the lowest rate since

levels. While single-family homes remain less

States in 2013, we have now surpassed 2008

2008 and significantly lower than the 7.4 percent

than half the level of the housing peak of 2006

the Fed expected at the beginning of the year. In

2014, the Fed predicts unemployment to drop as

low as 6.3 percent. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) predicts an increase in

both disposable personal income and consumer spending of 3 percent in 2014.

Overall, these factors provide confidence that the general economy will continue to move in the correct direction. And, for the countertop industry specifically, there are even more

positive signs in a variety of allied areas that most affect the surfacing market.

of numerous well-known economists.

is closely tied to the housing market, and it

projections for GDP are up over 2013 levels.

2009 554,000 445,000 109,000

income and spending. In 2013 the unemployment

Housing

While no one is predicting extreme growth, the

2008 905,000 622,000 283,000

term lending rates and increases in disposable

in 2014. This is reflected not only in the stance

of the Federal Reserve, but also in the opinions

2007 1,355,000 1,046,000 309,000

As we know, the decorative surfacing industry (along with the automotive sector) led the way in economic growth throughout 2013.

when they hit almost 1.5 million, multifamily

dwellings are only 10 percent behind their peak

levels at 305,600 vs. 336,000. Kiplinger predicts housing starts will surpass the 1 million mark in

2014, and points out “inventories of new homes remain extremely tight. In December 2013, new homes stayed on the market for an average of 3.2 months before being sold, far below the 5.5-month average of the past 30 years.”

Another positive sign is the continued rise in

home prices. Data released in January by S&P Dow Jones for its Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, the leading measure of U.S. home

prices, showed that nationwide, home prices grew on average more than 13 percent for

2013. Zillow, a well-known housing-related

website with a large real estate research team,

forecasted continued increases in home prices

In 2013 GDP averaged around 2.7 percent,

After taking severe hits in 2007, 2008 and

through 2014, but at a more normal rate. “We

projections for 2014. The Federal Reserve

making a significant jump in housing starts

… rising 4.8 percent between December 2013

figures show another significant jump of more

line with historic appreciation rates,” stated the

which seems to be the floor for most economic Board members and Federal Reserve Bank

presidents generally predict GDP in 2014 to

grow between 2.8 and 3.2 percent, according 20 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

2009, housing started to rebound slowly before

expect home value appreciation to continue

of more than 28 percent in 2012. In 2013, the

and December 2014 — a rate much more in

than 18.25 percent (see Figure 1). With more

Zillow forecast.

Nonresidential Building Construction (in millions of U.S. dollars) Type

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Lodging

35,806 25,499 11,635 9,129 11,423 13,135 14,301 15,323 16,020

Office

68,563

Commercial

86,212 54,069 39,450 43,386 46,303 47,256 49,691 53,773 57,942

Healthcare

46,902 44,845 39,344 40,204 41,797 41,581 44,003 47,533 51,749

Educational

104,890 103,202 88,405 84,985 84,618 81,333 84,704 89,245 95,066

51,908

37,850

36,011

38,433

37,481

38,924

40,885

43,399

Source: FMI Construction Outlook

Figure 2

Home Improvement Products Market

“We expect about a 4 percent increase in

5.1 million in 2013,” states Kiplinger’s Housing

Billions $ 278 293 312.9 334.9 351.8 367.7 383.7

existing-home sales, to 5.3 million, up from

Outlook 2014. “Inventories of existing homes remain moderately low at 4.6 months (as of

% Change 5 5.4 6.8 7 5 4.5 4.3 Source: IHS Global Insight/HIRI Home Improvement Products Market Forecast

December). This is fairly close to the average in

the housing market prior to the housing bubble, an indication that foreclosures coming into the

market are no longer creating an oversupply of homes.”

All in all, the indicators and subsequent

predictions are all positive, which looks good for the surfacing industry.

Nonresidential Construction When it comes to nonresidential construction, the outlook also seems relatively positive.

Year 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Figure 3 lead to smaller stores that combine in-store

sales with online shopping. Increases in store remodeling may limit new store construction.

■■ An aging population is the driving force

commercial property market point to healthy growth moving forward.”

Home Improvement/Remodeling

behind the predicted increase in construction

The outlook for the home improvement/

will focus more on technology and less on

is also indicating a good year of continued

facilities.

In the most recent update of the Home

in healthcare facilities; however, new facilities

remodeling sector of the U.S. economy in 2014

“frills.” Trends will be toward rebuilding existing

growth, according to experts.

FMI, a consulting and investment banking

■■ Educational funding is significantly lower,

predicted in its Construction Outlook Report

revenues for states and municipalities will help

segments historically tied to surfacing

country. School consolidation will be more of

educational) will all see modest increases in

affected by the growing trend for online degree

largest increases in the lodging, healthcare and

The Consensus Construction Forecast issued

and real income growth now on a slightly

also predicts nonresidential growth. In a report

forecast, we have also boosted projected

he states, “Nonresidential building activity

sales over the next two years” states

with spending levels largely unchanged from

6.9 percent in 2014-2015, with a slight

better year, with building activity increasing 5.8

housing market cycle runs its course.”

services company for the construction industry,

but increases in residential construction and tax

that the five major nonresidential construction

bring this market back in many areas of the

(lodging, office, commercial, healthcare and

a factor, and higher learning institutes may be

2014 (see Figure 2). FMI expects to see the

programs.

commercial/retail sectors, with these areas advancing 9, 6 and 5 percent respectively.

Points of insight in the FMI report include: ■■ Lodging construction grew 15 percent in

2013 over 2012. Revenue per room for lodging was up 5 percent in 2013; high-end properties

and major business destinations, such as New

Improvement Research Institute’s IHS Global Insight/HIRI Home Improvement Products

Market Forecast, the 2013 home improvement market was expected to finish up 5.4 percent over 2012 with a total overall size of $293

billion. HIRI is predicting these gains will be

even better, up another 6.8 percent, in 2014

(see Figure 3). “With housing market activity

by the American Institute of Architects (AIA)

higher trajectory in our macroeconomic

issued by Kermit Baker, AIA chief economist,

growth rates for home improvement product

had a disappointing performance in 2013,

the report. “We expect growth averaging

those of 2012. However, 2014 looks to be a

deceleration in the following three years as the

York City have the best chance of expansion;

percent overall, including a double-digit gain for

new properties, with green building more

into 2015, with spending increasing 8 percent

According to the Joint Center for Housing

hotel developers will renovate before building

commercial facilities. The recovery will continue

common in remodels and retrofits.

overall and 6 percent for institutional buildings.

■■ Office construction is still fighting to gain

“With the economy finally stabilizing,

11.4 percent. The center’s Remodeling Futures

improvement in the construction outlook,”

of the Leading Indicators of Remodeling

traction with a decline in 2013, but new office space is being absorbed at a fast rate.

■■ The turn to online sales will be a limiting factor for commercial construction; this will

Studies at Harvard University, 2013 was

predicted to finish with double-digit growth,

with Q3 finishing up 10.4 percent and Q4 up

there should finally be some substantial

Program estimates via its most recent update

Baker continued. “Both design activity at

Activity (LIRA) that these upward trends will

architecture firms, and the fundamentals of the

continue in 2014, with growth in the first half of International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 21

sales is being reflected in home improvement

activity,” said Eric S. Belsky, managing director of the Joint Center. “As owners gain more

confidence in the housing market, they are

likely to undertake home improvements that they have deferred.”

Cabinetry Cabinetry sales numbers are another predictor for the countertop industry, and some of

the most positive news can be found in this

industry. After five years of massive negative

growth (2006 to 2011), sales are once again in the black with massive gains seen in 2013.

Cabinet sales, as reported in the Kitchen

Cabinet Manufacturers Association’s (KCMA) monthly Trend of Business Survey, showed double-digit gains for 2013. Overall sales

jumped a whopping 20.7 percent in 2013, on the back of 7.3 percent in 2012 (see

Figure 4

Figure 5). Considering more than two-thirds of

the year at 14 percent or higher, and dropping

costs because spending will be near pre-

to just under 10 percent in the third quarter

recessionary levels.

(see Figure 4). The report attributes the slight slowdown forecasted in the second half of

“The ongoing growth that we’ve seen in home

the year to a predicted increase in borrowing

prices, housing starts and existing home

ISFA Member since 1999 Circle RS#08 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

22 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

the cabinet market participates in the survey,

the numbers are a pretty solid representation of where the segment stands.

According to a release by the Cabinet Maker

Association (CMA), its 2014 Benchmark Study

not only confirmed the numbers reported by the KCMA, but it also showed indicators of

Cabinet Sales in Billions of U.S. Dollars (includes 70 percent of industry reporting)

solid growth for 2014. Nearly three quarters

Year

Total sales

Overall % Stock cabinets change % change

Semi-custom cabinets % change

Custom cabinets % change

respondents reported sales increases of more

2013

$5.6

20.7%

26.2%

16.3%

17.9%

2012

$4.7

7.3%

11.7%

4.5%

0.1%

2011

$4.4

-1.7%

-3.2%

0.0%

-3.0%

increased sales leads.

2010

$4.5 -4.1% -6.7%

-0.5%

-13.2%

Because of the close alliance between the

2009

$4.8 -28.3% -24.1%

-30.2%

-37.2%

2008

$6.7 -19.3% -18.5%

-19.9%

-20.6%

2007

$7.9 -12.3% -19.8%

-4.7%

-5.2%

of the study’s more than 300 qualified

than 10 percent in 2013, and 82.4 percent

say they are more optimistic for sales gains in 2014, with more work in the pipeline and

cabinet and countertop markets, this is a

very positive sign for those in the countertop industry.

Countertops Specifically While all of the previous factors influence the

countertop industry, and all of them point to a solid year ahead, one research company, The Freedonia Group, actually published a 382-

page report in late 2013 titled “Countertops”

that offers some predictions and insights into the specific marketplace (see Figure 6).

The study reports that Wilsonart, Formica, Panolam, DuPont and Cosentino are the

five largest material suppliers to the U.S.

countertop market, accounting for 44 percent

2006 $9.0 Source: Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) Trend of Business Reports, www.kcma.org.

Figure 5 of total sales by area in 2012. The first

per year to 750 million square feet in 2017,

three dominate the laminate segment, while

valued at about $25.2 billion. This comes

DuPont continues to lead the solid surface

off of the back of an overall contraction in

segment (while also holding a significant

the countertop industry by -2.8 percent

share of the engineered stone market) and

over the last several years. “Going forward,

Cosentino accounts for the largest share of the

countertop demand will be spurred by a

engineered stone market, states the report.

recovery in U.S. building construction and, in particular, gains in single-family housing

According to the report, U.S. demand for

completions through 2017,” stated the report.

countertops is forecast to increase 5.1 percent

ISFA Member since 2013 Circle RS#09 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 23

“Advances will also stem from a relaxation in

U.S. Countertop Demand (in millions of square feet)

Item 2007 2012 2017 2022 Total Countertop Demand

670

585

750

860

% of Annual Growth 2007-2012 2012-2017 -2.7%

5.1%

By Material: 353 290 349 380 -3.9%

3.8%

Natural Stone

88

90

130

160

0.5%

7.6%

Solid Surface

87

77

97

110

-2.4%

4.7%

Engineered Stone

36

41

58

72

2.6%

7.2%

Cast Polymers

53

40

55

64

-5.5%

6.6%

Tile

43 35 44 51 -4.0% 4.7%

Other

10

17

23

3.7%

7.2%

By Market: 527

465

595

680

-2.5%

5.1%

Nonresidential Building

119

99

131

153

-3.6%

5.8%

-2.6%

2.7%

$/square foot

31

31

34

36

Countertop Demand (in millions of $)

20550

17850

25150 30700

--

1.9%

-2.8%

7.1%

Source: The Freedonia Group, Inc.

While laminate countertops will maintain the report predicts that share will continue

to decline. “Just a decade ago laminates

accounted for 60 percent of countertop surface area,” stated the report. “Their share will

continue to slide as they face rising competition from a wider variety of surfaces. By 2017,

laminates will account for only 47 percent of total demand as consumers opt for higher quality materials.”

continue to see large gains going forward.

Of note is that this is the first time since

Freedonia has tracked countertop demand

that natural stone has showed a larger market

share than solid surface. And, according to the report, this trend will continue. “Until recently, natural stone materials were primarily used in

luxury homes,” it explained. “However, a drop

in the average price for granite (partially due to an increase in low-cost imports) has extended

Figure 6

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

24 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

countertop remodeling plans.”

Natural stone, according to the report, will

Residential Building

Nonbuilding 24 21 24 27

with needed financing to go forward with

largest share of the market, the Freedonia

Laminates

12

credit requirements, providing homeowners

the availability of this material to a larger portion of the mass market.”

However, the report goes on to predict big increases in other materials as well. The

report predicts engineered stone, along with

other materials such as metals, concrete and

recycled materials, will increase by 7.2 percent per year through 2017.

So, putting all of these things together, it

looks like the countertop industry can prepare for another year of continued growth. While

government for a variety of statistical

information made available to the public, as well as acknowledge the following sources used in the creation of this article:

nonprofit organization of home improvement industry companies The Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS), www.jchs.harvard.edu, Harvard University’s

The American Institute of Architects (AIA),

center for information and research on housing

www.aia.org, a professional membership

in the United States

association for architects

Kiplinger, www.kiplinger.com, a publisher of

The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA),

business forecasts and personal finance advice

www.cabinetmakers.org, a professional organization for cabinetmakers and

The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association

woodworkers from both the residential and commercial markets

(KCMA), www.kcma.org, a nonprofit

track for surfacing. Cabinetry is showing the

FMI, www.fminet.com, a consulting and

cabinets and decorative laminates

and remodeling appears to be a high point for

construction industry

the general economy could be a bit stronger,

barring disasters, everything appears to be on best activity in more than a half dozen years

the year. But, both new home and commercial construction also look to be on solid footing.

Editor & Publisher Kevin Cole can be reached at Kevin@isfanow.org.

The author would like to thank the federal

organization representing manufacturers of

investment banking services company for the

S&P Dow Jones Indices, www.spdji.com, a subsidiary of The McGraw-Hill Companies and

The Freedonia Group, a research firm that

recently released a “Countertops” study that

is available for purchase from the company at www.freedoniagroup.com

The Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI), www.hiri.org, a membership-based,

the world’s largest global resource for indexbased concepts, data and research Zillow, www.zillow.com, a well-known real estate website with a large staff of industry researchers

ISFA Member since 2011 Circle RS#12 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 25

From the President From the desk of Dave Paxton, President of ISFA Board

I Am Throwing Down a Challenge!

Hello Fabricators! I am the new president of ISFA for 2014. I own a business called Paxton Countertops and Showers Inc. out of Grand Ledge, Mich., along with my dad and sister. We fabricate laminate, solid surface, concrete, granite and quartz surfacing in-house.

I’d like to begin with a big thank you to Mike

Hunter Adams: Hunter is smart as hell and is best

he’s done in this industry and for the association.

balance work with family.

Langenderfer, last year’s ISFA president, for all

Mike is a real leader and his leadership skills have really shown through when making decisions.

He’s the kind of guy whose mind you can really see work. Mike doesn’t worry about criticism,

described by the word “orderly.” He taught me to Mory Ludwig: Mory is a great guy and has a

showroom that is first class and an operation that anyone would be proud of.

doesn’t expect gratitude and asks questions

Vanessa Bates: Vanessa, in my opinion,

2005 at an ISFA regional meeting. He was the guy

countertop world. She told me to not buy big

rather than giving direct orders. I met Mike in

that was asking questions to the presenters and

then asking “why” to the answers he received. He has been a mentor to me and a true friend that I am thankful to know.

I urge you to get involved in ISFA events in order to have the opportunity to meet people like

Mike, who will increase your bottom line by just

brought good accounting practices to the

equipment just because it seems manly, but

because you need it to make more money. She

Jon Blasius: Jon is a marketing genius, a great salesman and a friend (plus he loves guns like

me). He introduced me to Atlas Shrugged, The Art of War, The Goal and other books and topics that continue to fascinate me.

Adam Albee: Adam is very process-oriented, funny (looks like Will Ferrell) and is a huge resource on the ISFA Board of Directors.

Rob Reglar: Rob is a fellow Michigander who

Christina Humiston: Christina is scary smart and

dependable and a great operator.

very energetic and taught me to dig deep into issues to find truth.

Russ Lee: In addition to being an outdoorsman,

I’d also like to take this opportunity to recognize

his good ideas helped me understand the

business and me grow. Each of them has left an

industry from him.

also taught me about market research.

questioning how you do things.

people in the industry that have helped my

has a great accent. I learned a lot about the stone

like me, Russ is very knowledgeable, and importance of a sound business plan.

impression on me that I won’t forget. I know I

Evan Kruger: Evan is what I would call a

this is published I’m going to kick myself for not

solid people skills, and taught me about

loves fishing, but beyond that he is honest,

Andy Graves: Andy is a smart guy who loves this industry. He is creative and I see us becoming

better friends in the future. Consider this an olive branch, Andy (no pun intended).

Robert Butts: Robert has great business skills, answers the call of fabricators and is a realist.

have missed a lot of people and that as soon as

“master entrepreneur.” He is worldly, has

Gordon Deyoung: Gordon is a good guy, a fellow

including them.

networking and that everything has a window of

techniques as far back as junior high. He always

Ted Sherritt: Ted was my mentor in the ISFA

opportunity.

Million Dollar Mentor program. He taught me to

Mike Job: Mike was a past board member

makes up for a lot of loose processes. (He also

kind and was taken too soon by a motorcycle

measure results and that a great marketing plan taught me not to try to keep up with him drinking.)

Russ Berry: Russ is one of the best minds in our

industry with a real knack for good word choices.

He taught me how to present my ideas better in

public and that I should take every opportunity to speak in public, even if I might not want to.

Martin Funk: I roomed with Martin at an event, and he was up at 4 a.m. screaming in German

(time change). He taught me to speak when it is important and not to fill space.

26 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

and a savvy businessman. He was one-of-aaccident. You are missed my friend.

Dani Homrich: Dani, the person that invited me

to join ISFA, is the mad scientist of solid surface.

He taught me important lessons on coving and material testing.

Tom Pinske: Tom is a real inventor and always

encouraged me. He was the one who originally taught me how to make shower pans.

Joe Hoffman: Joe is self-confident, funny and

deer hunter, and showed me a lot of fabrication encouraged me to keep up on my literature.

Todd Werstler: Todd taught me to spend the money to get the right people on the bus.

Tom Winkowski: Tom taught me about

distribution, weathering a storm and boldness.

Steve Lefebvre: Steve is an inventor with wisdom and initiative. I own every tool this man has

made. I will buy any new tool he comes up with.

I look forward to the day that we can spend time together.

Sid McKay: I've always enjoyed talking to Sid. He is an honest man with a deep knowledge of the industry.

Mell Hill: Not only is she trustworthy and honest,

Jon Olson: Jon is a pillar in the solid surface

teaching processes and measurable standards

to others and that even the smallest thing goes a

people in the world on solid surface design and

to Aaron, stay seated and let him do a majority of

but Mell has also taught me to give appreciation long way and means a lot.

Erica Hussey: Erica grew up in the industry

community and one of the most knowledgeable material characteristics. He taught me to use social media and about 3-D solid surface.

and loves it. She taught me to analyze my own

Gordon Shell: Gordon is a very kind person

also taught me Bostonian.

continues to teach others in the industry and one

mistakes and criticize myself before others. She Mark Anderson: Mark respects others, shows

initiative and has great wisdom. Because of him

and taught my first Corian fabrication class. He

day I hope to be ringside when he beats the hell out of Mike Vic.

— a must read. If you have the opportunity to talk the talking.

Kurt Bonk: Kurt taught me to let Mike

Langenderfer buy drinks and to stay involved in everything just a little bit.

Fred Hueston: Fred showed me how to loop

the air in my stone shop to create more volume

without spending a bunch of money. I have also

I try to show loyalty, stay focused and keep a

Jack Hussey: Jack is a veteran in the industry

trick from him about Brazilian steak house cards.

knowledgeable and extremely funny. I spent time

All of these people helped me to be the person

in New Orleans. He ordered a Jack and coke, and

set the path for what the business and I are

positive attitude about others. I also learned a Michael Astill: Michael is enthusiastic and is

literally the best salesperson I know. This guy could sell me anything, a-n-y-thing!

Kevin Cole: Kevin, who does a great job on the

magazine and is continually improving it, is a book of knowledge; he reads everything and always appeals to nobler motives. He does not try to imitate others, but only tries to be himself.

Harry Hollander: Harry cracks me up. Over the

that knows people and how to interact. He is

with him watching ’80s bands on Bourbon Street they handed him the biggest drink I have ever seen. We had a great time.

Mike Nolan: Mike always seems to keep busy.

He is a teacher who knows how to explain complicated procedures.

Bruce Akins: Bruce showed me SWOT analysis and how to apply it to my business.

used his “Dr. Fred’s” and it works great.

I am, to create the business I work in and to

becoming. I met all of these great people through my association with ISFA and was only able to

take advantage of all they had to offer because I got involved and made it a point to get to know

them. We are in charge of where we go not only in

our personal lives, but in our businesses as well.

Excuses as to why you didn’t succeed are just

that, excuses! To those of you who are not taking

years his Mohawk has become less pronounced.

Layton Day: The conversations I have had

advantage of the opportunities to learn from and

processes. Harry taught me that everything can

entrepreneur that spends a lot of time monitoring

of advice: Get off your ass and interact!

He is always willing to help better our shop be tracked (using JobTracker of course).

Chad Thomas: Chad is very hard working and

with Layton left an impression on me. He is an

his market for the right time to grow and invest. I was listening, Layton.

grow with your industry peers, I have just one bit I am throwing down a challenge to all ISFA membership:

knows about adhesives in great detail. Because

Mark Lauzon: When I have screwed up really

I know more about adhesives than I ever thought

He’s hands-on and takes great pride in his work.

Give appreciation in the form of a letter, phone

coating (and I hope you don’t get offended from

helped you to become who you are and that

Contact everyone I have listed above.

of spending hours on the phone with him,

bad, I typically call Mark. This guy knows stone.

I would.

Mark speaks his mind, so don’t expect sugar

call, email, etc. to all of the people who have

creative foul language).

play a role in your operation running smoothly.

Ron McDermott: Ron taught me about laser templating (and how to open a beer bottle).

Deanne Ellard: Deanne taught me to be

persistent, available and stay the course.

Mike Heylman: Mike explained to me about the very quickly approaching risk of cheap Chinese

imports of prefabricated tops, and that if we band together, we can do something about it.

Jeff Puinti: Jeff taught me to smile, and that every once in a while the F-bomb is appropropriate.

Jon Lancto: I have been watching and listening

Encourage them.

to Jon for 16 years. We toured his shop in 2006

Call me. Let’s talk shop. Tell me how this

measure production. Jon is involved and I hope to

list. My cell phone number is (517) 719-0146.

where we were taught throughput and how to spend more time with him in the future.

Bill Wolle: I learned push caulking from Bill, and I

still have educational DVDs of him teaching topics that continue to be relevant even after more than

challenge is working for you. I want to be on your And if you aren’t already, be a member of ISFA. It could make a big difference in your success.

Thank you and God bless,

a decade.

Chuck Sawyer: Chuck taught me about break-

Aaron Crowley: I would not be the least shocked

Dave Paxton

This is something that we monitor closely.

book "Less Chaos, More Cash" is a bible to us,

paxtoncountertops@yahoo.com

even point and that no dollar before that is profit.

if Aaron became a future U.S. president. His

ISFA President

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 27

Advanced Stone Marketing Strategies for Those Who Want

More Profits

By Aileen Davis

T

he classic book Acres of Diamonds, by Russell Conwell, teaches that most people

have love, money and anything they desire well within their existing reach. In my opinion, it is a “must read” for just about anybody and I urge you to do so.

To calculate your average customer value, you must first find out your average revenue per

job. To do this, simply take your gross revenue over the last 12 months and divide it by the

In the book, Conwell writes about Ali Hafed,

Regardless of their size or profitability, they

like most people, desperately wanted to be

they’re all looking for a solution outside of their

Next, find out how much a customer referral

this thinking, I advise them to look within their

referral for every two homeowners, divide your

they invest in more product offerings, a bigger

add this to your average revenue per job you

a farmer who owned acres of farmland but,

total number of jobs completed.

all want to increase revenue. But, like Ali,

existing asset. While there’s nothing wrong with

is worth. For example, if you average one

existing asset for profit opportunities before

average revenue per job by two. You can then

Internet marketing budget or whatever it is that

just calculated. You have now determined your

they’re thinking of doing.

average lifetime customer value.

for diamonds. He searched all over the world,

In the stone industry, you have the trust and

You CAN increase that number without raising

his own life.

are in very valuable stages of their lives. As

more products. This is just one of your own

Shortly after Ali’s passing, the gentleman that

events that surround the need for home

stone business.

wealthy.

One day, his priest told him that if he could

just find one diamond the size of his thumb, he could buy the entire country and live the

rest of his life as an extremely wealthy man.

So, Ali sold the family farm and went searching eventually going completely broke and ending

bought his farm was giving his horse a drink

from the river that ran through the property. As

he was standing on the river bank watching his horse drink, he noticed a sparkle in the water.

As he looked closer, he found a beautiful stone that glistened in the sun. He picked it up, and

thought nothing of it until the priest stopped by

and pointed out that it was, indeed, a diamond.

It turns out that the entire farm sat on acres

and acres of diamonds and became one of the world’s largest diamond mines.

respect of people — your customers — who

prices, adding another customer or selling

you probably know, there are specific life

“acres of diamonds” that you have within your

improvements, such as countertops and

Leveraging Current Assets

flooring, and it’s crucial that you know what

they are. It’s even more crucial that you know

One way to begin the process of increasing

how to capitalize on them.

your lifetime customer value is to identify the

Calculating the Value of a Customer

in. The most common major life events are:

major life events your customers are currently

Conventional thinking in the stone industry tells us that homeowners have a lifetime value that is made up of a certain amount of projects, future job requests and referrals. I hear numbers all over the board.

Moving – Either somebody intends on selling

their home or has just moved into a new home.

New Job/Inheritance – People who have come into additional funds or income.

Poor Ali had acres of diamonds right under his

nose and instead of leveraging what he already had, he left it behind for a miserable life and death.

The moral of the story is pretty easy to see.

I believe that we all have our own figurative

Average Revenue per Job ÷ No. of Referrals per Customer

Average Revenue per Job

acres of diamonds. You have your own asset, just like Ali, and you just need to harvest it.

I talk to business owners like Ali every day.

28 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

The first step to leveraging your assets is calculating the value of a customer.

Lifetime Customer Value

Empty Nest – Now that the kids are gone

businesses a qualified customer? Do you think

Meet with the decision makers of these local

and/or the age of the house requires it.

that customer? You bet! If you’re paying $100

tracking system that will make both of you

there’s more money for home improvements Marriage – A new kitchen/bath will help the couple to better enjoy their home together.

Once you are aware of these life events, you

can work on leveraging one of your business’s most valuable assets: the trust and respect of your existing customers.

By forming joint ventures with respectable local businesses that can fill a need that

people in those major life events are looking

for, you can increase the value of many of your customers by 25 percent, 50 percent, 200

the business would pay you a commission for for a new customer through your advertising

efforts, would you be willing to pay $80 for a

new customer if somebody brought it to you? Of course you would.

If a local business is paying $400 for a new

pay a few bucks for new customer, but others

will pay several hundred or more than $1,000 to acquire a new customer.

Now, what if you leveraged your trust and customer relationships and gave these

present to your customers that outline the

benefits of using your joint venture partners.

will go through the roof. As you continue

you just increased your lifetime value by $250. Do

that a few times and you’ve just struck diamonds.

Form alliances with local businesses outside the

in the major life events above and the list of

they have a customer acquisition cost. Some will

Then create nice marketing materials to

dealing with a good customer. In that situation,

Joint Ventures for Success

again, they advertise. This all works out so that

have a nice slate of joint venture partners.

Before long, you’ll be getting commission

customers at $250. They save $150 and are

industry like movers, realtors, carpet cleaners and

day to grow their sales revenue. So, like you

comfortable. Do this multiple times until you

customer, they’d love you to bring them new

percent or more!

Just like you, local businesses are trying every

businesses to work out a fair commission and

so on. Think of companies that can help people companies will be easy to form.

For example, people who want to put their home up for sale need a realtor, moving

company, probably a handyman service to make their home presentable and quite a

few moving supplies. A couple who just got

married probably want to talk to a good interior decorator, insurance agent, financial planner, etc. The list is endless.

Grass Roots

Gatherings I S FA G rass R oots Gath e r i n g Coming this fall to Park Industries

checks in the mail and your customer value increasing your amount of new customers,

your revenue is boosted exponentially. That, my friend, is one large acre of diamonds within your existing business!

About the Author Aileen Davis is the president of Stone Marketing Systems (SMS), which is dedicated to helping stone businesses increase their profits through innovative sales and marketing strategies. To subscribe to Aileen’s e-newsletter for free tips or schedule a 30-minute “Marketing Tune-Up,” visit www.StoneMarketingSystems.com or call (888) 813-9658.

Get Involved!

We need your help to make these events the best that they can be. For more information or to help organize an event in your area, please contact ISFA at gatherings@isfanow.org.

If you are an associate member interested in sponsoring or displaying at a regional event, please contact ISFA at support@isfanow.org.

Watch for more information soon!

Circle RS#23 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 29

Growth Growth Growth

– The Double-edged Sword

By Aaron Crowley In this situation, most employees will quietly

staff is working overtime to get quotes out the door,

help them accomplish their tasks. “Can you grab

what a great problem to have and what a great

experience to share with fabricators all over the country. And it is a shared experience.

In recent weeks I’ve talked with many countertop fabricators from all over North America and the story is the same with everyone: Demand for

premium counters is increasing and there is a sense that it isn’t a temporary spike. It’s not out of control, but judging by the way the numbers look and the

way the market feels, growth is not only expected, it's happening.

The great thing about growth in demand is that

prices will rise because supply is limited. When

customers clamor over a limited supply or capacity, there will be a period (until supply expands to

accommodate the new demand) where they will

pay more to get their projects completed on time!

so we can regulate its expansion. Whether it’s the number of kitchens, square feet or a combination of the two, truly knowing and understanding capacity is crucial if we seek to profitably add to it.

So what is your daily, weekly and monthly average output? If you don’t already know the answers

If your phones are ringing faster than your office

staff can answer them, you are not alone. If your

Second, we need to know our current capacity

request the assistance of another employee to

that call?” or “Can you layout that next slab for

me?” are common responses to the rising water of demand seeping into the operation. Unfortunately this well-intentioned job sharing will evolve into

uncertainty as the line blurs between whose job it was and whose job it is to help finish tasks.

Imagine someone in the office thinking, “I got the

last call; it’s clearly his turn to grab this one” as the phone rings yet again, but this time unanswered.

At this point the nagging uncertainty as to who is really responsible for answering the phone,

interpreting the drawings or laying out the next job becomes good old-fashioned confusion.

Wondering whose job it really is will inevitably put

someone in a position where they have to choose between doing the job they were hired to do and the one they have informally assumed.

to these questions, stop! Don’t add a job to the calendar until you have evaluated the last four months to determine your current output.

Understanding current capacity and then deciding what the next level of capacity will be not only establishes a measurable target to increase capacity but it will also limit the tendency to overcommit. If your capacity is five kitchens a week but you agree to do a sixth (a 20 percent increase), costly chaos is going to follow and when the dust settles your profit will not be 20 percent higher.

More than likely it will be a lot lower!

Third and last, we must communicate with our staff. It is absolutely crucial to inform your staff that you have made the objective decision to take on work and add capacity to deliver it long before that additional work starts to show up on the calendar.

Once additional work is scheduled, communication is even more critical. Because growth changes the

Higher prices equal higher profit margins! But,

When employees choose between two tasks, it

complexion of an organization very subtly, it is hard

growth phase.

quietly slip through the cracks.

communication between departments and staff

higher profits are by no means guaranteed in a

means one will get done and the other one will

The fact is that growth — profitable growth — in

Then it’s no longer just confusion; it's chaos. And

difficult to achieve if it isn’t managed effectively.

Employees who don’t have time to get all their

a custom manufacturing environment is very

In most shops, work will be scheduled faster than manpower and capacity necessary to deliver it is

it compounds an already straining operation.

work done the first time surely don’t have time to

redo it. But redo it they must, and at the expense

added. This creates strain and stress on the existing of the other work that still needs to get done! operation, and people and things can get out of control (and costly) quickly.

When critical tasks that are crucial to keeping

the promise to the customer easily slip through the cracks, it causes embarrassing delays and

expensive mistakes that must be corrected at the expense of other profitable work.

This happens because growth changes the

understanding that while growth solves many problems, it can create many more.

than were generated on lower sales volume.

So where does that leave us? Should we fear

growth? Should we avoid growth? No and no. We

should control growth. We should manage growth.

objectively comparing current sales activity

assist in setting up the counters for fabrication.

30 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Resisting the urge to take on more work because

valued clients while producing even lower profits

reduces time for other important tasks like passing

countertops to cut reduces the available time to

that would otherwise occur.

self-control. Managing that work requires an

First we need to have an idea of what the actual

that have already been sent out. Having additional

made to eliminate the uncertainty and confusion

great big headache that strains relationships with

The change means greater workloads for individual

to quote reduce the time for following up on quotes

to overwhelm. That way, formal decisions can be

it's there for the taking requires enormous

to sell only what we have decided we want to

important messages to key people. More drawings

declarations that increased demand is threatening

opportunity to grow the bottom line can become a

after a critical task has been overlooked and profit-

employees in many forms. Higher call volume

will turn those quiet requests for assistance into

What starts out as a welcomed development and

operation in subtle ways that may go unnoticed until Instead of selling everything we can sell, we need consuming chaos takes charge.

to predict where the strain will show up first. Daily

produce and have planned to take on.

growth might be. The only way to do this is by with previous periods. If the number of quote

requests in the last four months is up 20 percent over the same period last year, it is a reasonable

expectation that demand will continue to exceed your current capacity by the same amount.

Growth is a sharp sword that cuts both ways. So embrace the blessing of our improving economy and increasing orders for countertops, decide if and how much you want to grow, and then prepare to work even harder to make it all worthwhile!

About the Author Aaron Crowley has worked in the countertop industry for 19 years, the last 15 as owner of Crowley’s Granite Concepts, a seven-time Angie’s List super-service award winner. Aaron also developed the Fabricators Friend line of stone-shop gear, founded RemnantLocator.com and authored the book Less Chaos, More Cash. He speaks and writes regularly about business management in the countertop industry, and can be reached at aaron@ fabricatorsfriend.com.

Circle RS#13 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 1998

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

Fabricator Profile: Surface

W

Link

hile most countertop and surfacing shops like to

believe they are different than all

of their peers, Surface Link Corporation can make that claim with an air of authority.

Unlike other companies in the surfacing

industry, Surface Link covers all of the United States and Canada, but more than that, they specialize exclusively in rework.

While the company is headquartered in northern Virginia where it has its main

operations center, it has remote offices in most

Surface Link was rooted in solid surface work, such as this before and after of a major repair.

U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

The company handles repairs, modifications and refinishing work in both residential and

commercial settings. The spectrum of work

performed ranges from the smallest chips and

scratches all the way up to massive breaks and cracks and everything in between.

Solid Beginnings Founder and company president John Vatis first got into the surfacing business in the ’80s in the solid surface segment of the

industry, and in 1988 he and a partner started

a fabrication shop. In 1997, after nine years of

The company expanded into repairing quartz surfacing in 2002, as shown in this before and after.

fabricating solid surface tops, Vatis sold his interest in the business and that same year

founded Surface Link to concentrate solely on the repair of solid surface.

In the beginning, he worked out of his SUV

handling solid surface repairs for a few of the major surfacing manufacturers and a large distributor in the Washington, D.C., area.

However, his business soon began to expand and he hired his first employee in 1999. The company now covers the entire contiguous United States and Canada, including the

Maritime Provinces, and has more than 50

personnel consisting of operations staff and field technicians.

No Material Left Unturned Although the company’s roots are in solid

surface, its arsenal of skills goes far beyond

Polishing and refinishing both in residential and commercial settings are part of the services offered by Surface Link. premium surface that we shy away from,” explained Vatis. “We handle green surfaces, such as recycled glass, as well as concrete, stainless steel, copper, zinc and other specialty

the variety of specialty surfaces. “Surfaces

trend in and out over the years,” said Vatis. “It is our thought that to have a healthy business we must be able to work with any of the

surfaces. They are all welcomed.”

current surfaces and educate ourselves about

surface into inspecting, repairing and restoring

In 2002, the company first began taking on

is enjoyable. Working with new materials and

as other specialty surfaces. “There is no

into granite and other natural stone as well as

just one material. Over the years the company evolved from exclusively handling solid

quartz surfacing, granite and marble, as well

32 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

quartz surfacing repairs and in 2012 delved

any new surfaces that are coming on. It also learning new techniques is interesting. Our people love that aspect.”

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

The company’s services go beyond just countertops as illustrated by this solid surface and crack repair and refinishing project on a boat.

“Every technician has to have an incredible amount of knowledge and training in the repair field,” explained Vatis.

“The knowledge any particular technician needs just to repair solid surface and quartz alone is staggering.”

And the fact that the company’s headquarters

has both a research and development shop and a training facility helps it to keep a handle on

the latest materials and techniques. “The R&D shop is used for development of new repair

techniques and tooling,” he explained. “If we haven’t repaired a particular surface, we will

work with it in our shop and find a solution.”

Training to be the Best The company is extremely picky about its

technicians and spends a lot of time training

everyone to ensure the best service. As such,

the company has three in-house manufacturercertified instructors for quartz surfacing and solid surface. At the Surface Link’s training

center personal, hands-on training is required for all new technicians, as well as recurrent

training for existing technicians. The company

also offers training to fabricators wanting to get certified with a particular manufacturer or start their own businesses.

“Every technician has to have an incredible amount of knowledge and training in the

repair field,” explained Vatis. “The knowledge any particular technician needs just to repair

solid surface and quartz alone is staggering.”

It is this training that keeps the company

on the top of its game, which is key when

handling warranty work for manufacturers

and distributors — a large percentage of the business the company handles.

“It’s especially important that we provide

the best service and value to manufacturers for their warranty work,” said Vatis. “Our

technicians are incredibly talented. I am in awe sometimes.”

A Day in the Life The importance the company places on

training seems to have paid off, as during a

typical month, Surface Link’s operations center fields between 500 and 800 requests for repair

All of the company’s repair technicians are trained in-house by certified trainers and kept current through regular learning updates.

work. The center manages all calls, technical

fabricators are also a primary source of

been established, the center also takes care

support fabricators all over North America;

advisory services and sales. Once a job has

of the logistics and coordinating technicians in

the field to handle each call. Then, a technician working out of a fully equipped truck goes into action, putting their restoration/repair capabilities to work.

Keeping the hoppers full and the calls coming in requires a variety of sources. In addition

business,” explained Vatis. “We work with and they refer repair work to us so that they can

focus on new fabrication and installation. Our

relationships with fabricators are important to

us. We help them by providing a quality service that they can refer their customers to. They

know their customers are in good hands which reflects positively on their businesses.”

to warranty work, Surface Link also gets

In addition to these professional referrals,

material manufacturers and distributors. “It

business. This is brought in through marketing,

non-warranty referrals for repair work from is just as important to them to know that

referred consumers are handled carefully and

professionally, once again reflecting positively on their own brand,” said Vatis. “In addition, we perform inspections of high pressure

laminate surfaces for one major manufacturer on a national scale.”

Plus the company is happy to work with

other fabricators. “Repair referrals from other

the company does a good bit of direct sales

traditional advertising and online lead sources, as well as word-of-mouth referrals. A lot of this retail business is countertop and sink

refinishing and replacing existing sinks with updated models. Additionally the company

repairs and refinishes baths and showers on a case-by-case basis.

On the retail side, currently it is about an

80/20 split with residential work dominating its International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 33

OR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE ABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR commercial business. However, Vatis said the commercial market is picking up steadily for

Making a Difference Although quite a bit different than the typical

the company, and he sees commercial work moving more toward half of the business in the near future.

fabrication outfit, this type of business is not without its benefits. There is generally less urgency and consequently less pressure.

In addition to solid workmanship, Vatis credits much of the company’s ability to keep the calls coming in is because of the people working

“In the fabrication business, there are the

customers and the different trades all lined

up, waiting for the installation to happen so they can do their part,” explained Vatis. “In

at his main facility. “We have an amazing

the repair business, the countertop is already

operations center staff that is knowledgeable

installed. There is less urgency and the

and friendly,” he explained. “And that is a

atmosphere is more relaxed.”

key component in maintaining all of these relationships.”

and go away,” he said. “If you grow too fast,

you lose your quality. So we try to continue to grow, but slowly.”

However, one of the same things that makes

this sort of a unique business such a challenge also brings rewards. “This type of work has been done on a national scale by very few people,” said Vatis. “Consequently, there

are so many things to discover, invent and

learn. All of us — our operations staff and our technicians — continually come up with new ideas, techniques and approaches. It keeps

However, there is also a downside. “We have

us all fresh and enthusiastic. Everyone in our

business work,” he continued. “There aren’t

this work. And this is a feel-good, people-

to cover a large geographic area to make this

company, to the person, says that they love

many areas of the country that offer enough

helping business. We are the problem solvers,

something I learned from a good friend who

work to support a localized repair company.”

and that’s a great feeling at the end of the day.”

worked in this industry many years ago,” he

That means the company is always looking for

For more information, contact Surface Link

sure that growth is slow and well managed.

A, Chantilly, VA 20151, (800) 482-1774, info@

When asked about his philosophy for success, Vatis explains the “miser principle.” “It’s

said. “The miser principle is an acronym for ‘make it simple easy.’ We work really hard to make it simple and easy to do business with us.”

opportunities for growth. However, Vatis makes

Corporation at 4200 Lafayette Center Dr., Suite

“If you don’t continue to grow, you stagnate

surfacelinkcorp.com, www.surfacelinkcorp.com.

Learn Something New. Create More Profit.

Make More Money.

Give Your Company the Leading Edge.

Upcoming Training Dates: Total Fabricator Training — Solid Surface Morganton, N.C. May 19-22 • July 14-17 • Sept. 15-18 Total Fabricator Training — Stone/Quartz Oakland, N.J. April 7-9 • Aug. 4-6 Las Vegas June 23-25 • Oct. 6-8

Find Out More & Watch Our YouTube Video! Visit www.ISFAnow.org/tft or call us at (877) 464-7732 Circle RS#60 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

34 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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About Your Business What type of material(s) do you work with? q Solid Surface

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Subscribe at http://isfanow.org/magazine/ or fax this form back to ISFA at (412) 487-3269 or by mail: 2400 Wildwood Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 35

Here.Now.News.

The ISFA Million Dollar Mentor Program Continues in 2014

Don’t Miss This Chance to Drive Your Business to the Next Level The popular Million Dollar Mentor Program is

Upcoming ISFA Training & Events For more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, call (877) 464-7732 or email gatherings@isfanow.org.

Total Fabricator Training — Stone/Quartz

continuing in 2014, and enrollment is currently open for those wishing to participate. This

to develop a profitable $1 million-plus fabrication

Hosted by Alpha Tools April 7 - 9, 2014 Oakland, N.J.

the next million dollar level. This is a business

Business Boot Camp

program is geared to fabricators whose goal is

business, or who wish to take their business to

April 22 - 23, 2014 Pittsburgh

development think tank and incubation program

providing the networking, business development

Total Fabricator Training — Solid Surface

lessons and the successful role models necessary to make successful growth happen.

Here’s a summary of the program: program, complete with guidelines, examples

Mentor program participants are paired up with industry veterans who will provide advice, coaching, information and insight into furthering their own businesses.

lessons that are designed to put companies on

set needed to grow from fabrication specialist to

the fast-track to growing their businesses.

business developer extraordinaire.

■■ Fabrication companies will be matched with a

The kickoff event, the Business Boot Camp on

face-to-face meetings, shop tour, telephone and

business management education, networking,

■■ New information to increase business

is required to grow a business. This year’s Boot

focus.

manufacturing, marketing essentials, financial

■■ We provide a nine-month structured

of successful fabricator operations and monthly

mentor for one-on-one advice and coaching via

April 22 to 23, is a two-day program offering

email discussions.

peer group discussions and directions in what

management skills and business development

■■ Peer group discussions and conference

calls that review the lessons; share the mentor’s wisdom; and present new ideas, software

and business processes (some with an expert

authority leading the discussion on the subject of the month) all designed to provide the

professional knowledge, processes and mind-

Camp features expert speakers covering lean

May 19 - 22, 2014 Morganton, N.C.

Total Fabricator Training — Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools June 23 - 25, 2014 Las Vegas

Total Fabricator Training — Solid Surface July 14 - 17, 2014 Morganton, N.C.

Total Fabricator Training — Stone/Quartz

fundamentals for fabrication shops and other key topics.

Hosted by Alpha Tools Aug. 4 - 6, 2014 Oakland, N.J.

Space in the program is limited, so interested

ISFA CEO Roundtable

parties should contact ISFA Executive Director

Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org or call

(877) 464-7732 for more information as soon as possible.

Aug. 19 Atlanta

Countertops Symposium (at IWF) Aug. 19 Atlanta

ISFA Total Fabricator Training — Solid Surface Sept. 15 - 18 Morganton, N.C.

ISFA Total Fabricator Training — Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools Oct. 6 - 8 Las Vegas

ISFA Annual Member Meeting The two-day kickoff event, the Business Boot Camp, brings in industry experts to provide information on a variety of topics essential for development of the skills needed for today's business environment.

36 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Oct. 24 Miami Beach, Fla.

ISFA is on the Move … with Help from our Sponsors and Participants

ISFA held its first Grass Roots Gathering of 2014 on February 20 in Boston, Mich. These gatherings are designed to bring fabricators together to share experiences and make connections that can benefit their businesses.

The Michigan event featured: ■■ Networking ■■ An AIA CEU presentation on Cosentino’s new Dekton ultra-compact material ■■ A gourmet lunch

Preview of Coming Attractions Coming soon to your neighborhood…

■■ Vendor exhibits ■■ A tour of the impressive ILSD facility ■■ Door prizes

Isfa is currently engaged in the development of a program to revolutionize our Total Fabrication Training!

■■ Discussion on current ISFA initiatives Thanks to our participants and sponsors

A team of experienced educators is creating a new program that will result in a group of ISFA-approved trainers that will be able to provide fabrication training on a regional or local basis.

With course modules developed by the ISFA team, we will be able to offer customized training at your shop.

To participate in the development of this program or for questions about this program please contact: Chuck Sawyer, Executive Director, cksawyer@isfanow.org.

INTERN ATION AL SURFAC E FABRIC AT ORS ASSOC IATION

Circle RS#21 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFANews ISFA Quartz/Granite Fabrication Class Returns to East Coast in April

The students will perform a sink cutout as well as a cooktop cutout in the kitchen project.

Bowl mounting processes – An overview on attaching an undermount bowl to the

countertop, including faucet layout and hole coring.

Basic repairs – A review of basic techniques for chip and scratch repair, including face polishing to match the existing finish.

Finishing – A discussion of the proper The Level I Granite/Quartz Total Fabrication

including dust and fume issues, safe material

will be held at the Alpha Professional Tools

a shop safety program and suggestions for

Training class is back on the road in April and training center in Oakland, N.J.

handling, training shop safety rules, setting up reducing shop insurance costs.

The classes represent an opportunity for

Product knowledge – An overview of the

or to pick up an entirely new skill set for their

and quartz surfacing materials.

fabricators to send new employees to be trained businesses.

The class is scheduled for April 7 - 9.

Teaching the three-day class is Fred Hueston,

well-known stone industry educator. A nationally

properties, features and benefits of natural stone Productivity concepts – An introduction to direct, indirect and non‐contributing labor

concepts and the thought processes for getting the most out of what you have.

known consultant, he has trained thousands

Templating – A discussion and demonstration

inspections and restoration of stone and quartz

The students will template the project top for

of stone craftsmen on fabrication, installation, surfacing products.

of hard templating as well as digital templating. production.

The course takes students through the

Seaming – A dialog covering material layout

material handling, safety and shop throughput.

adhesives and adhesive delivery systems,

essentials of stone fabrication and installation, The training offers knowledge through theory and hands-on fabrication. Elements of the course include:

Safety – A review of basic shop safety

procedures, material safety data sheets

for yield, color matching, tricks of the trade,

techniques for producing a professional finish. Polishing techniques covering diamond polishing pads, backing pads, variable-speed grinders and polishing the exposed edge for an undermount sink will be discussed and practiced. The discussion will also cover application environments, cleaner application, enhancers, sealers, waxes and caulking.

Installation – A look at installation as a part

of total fabrication. The class will review tools and materials, loading sequence, customer relations, field seams, caulking, finishing, care and maintenance, warranty information and consumer completion. The students will install the project countertops on the mock‐up cabinets.

Support systems – A presentation that will focus on various methods and materials to

preparing the material for seaming and clamping

provide for support for countertops including

methods.

overhang applications.

Cutouts – A look at sink cutouts, faucet cutouts

For more information or to register for this

rodding and the importance of proper support.

(877) 464-7732.

and cooktop cutouts. The class will also discuss

training class, contact paula@isfanow.org or call

Strong Countertop Programming Developing for IWF The partnership between ISFA and the International Woodworking Fair (IWF)

established to increase the focus on the countertop industry for the 2014 IWF show continues to gain momentum as the programming for the

show develops. A full educational track including such topics as process management, diversifying your business and lean manufacturing in the

fabrication shop are in the works. Additionally, the 2014 show will feature a “Countertop Pavilion.”

IWF is now signing up exhibitors for the Countertop Pavilion, and

companies interested in reaching the countertop market are beginning to

sign up to exhibit in this reserved space. ISFA members wanting to exhibit 38 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

will receive a discount on booth space, and ISFA will be co-sponsoring several events just for the countertop fabrication community, including the return of the full-day Countertops Symposium.

Tentative speakers at the show include our new ISFA President Dave Paxton, of Paxton Countertops and Showers, renown author and speaker Aaron Crowley, of Crowley’s Granite Concepts, countertop installation and lean manufacturing expert Jason Nottestad, of VT Industries, and countertop industry guru and ISFA Executive Director Chuck Sawyer.

IWF 2014 will be held Aug. 20 to 23, 2014, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Those interested in participating can contact either ISFA or IWF for additional information.

ISFA Board of Directors Dave Paxton

Mike Woods

Mike Langenderfer

Kate Dillenburg

Mell Hill

Ryan Miller

Adam Albee

John Hansen

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

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

Erica Hussey

Jeff Smith

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

Immediate Past President The Countertop Shop 10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 Phone: (419) 868-9101 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net

Vice President Oldcastle Surfaces 1400 Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 Phone: (404) 355-3108 Mell.Hill@oldcastle.com www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

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

Director Creative Countertop Solutions 919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 Phone: (615) 915-0718 mike@tnccs.com www.creativecountersolutions.com

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

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

Associate Member Representative Gemstone 435 Harrison St. Elkhart, IN 46516 Phone: (574) 294-8899 jsmith@gemstoness.com www.gemstoness.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 6 / Issue 1 • 39

ISFANews New Fabrication Standards for Quartz Surfacing and Solid Surface Under Development An important function of the International Surface Fabricators Association is to provide stakeholders in the surfacing industry with education and information about the products and methods that are used. With the collaboration of manufacturing members and teams of experienced ISFA members, in 2013 ISFA published ISFA-2-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Solid Surfacing. To parallel this standard, ISFA also created ISFA-3-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Quartz Surfacing Material.

These are now the industry standards for these categories of quality materials.

The next phase is to develop the companion standards that describe, outline and recommend detailed steps for the fabrication and installation processes for these materials.

The two standards that ISFA is currently working on are: ■■ ISFA-2-02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Solid Surfacing Material ■■ ISFA-3 -02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Quartz Surfacing Materials For these standards, ISFA currently has a task force headed by Keith Haight, president of Maximus Operandi Consulting, LLC, Elkton, Md. Along with helping to plan training activities, Haight will be coordinating our efforts to produce the fabrication standards for both solid surfacing and quartz surfacing.

We currently have two committees of ISFA fabricator members working on these two new standards. Our goal is to complete these standards before the end of 2014.

Each standard will have general descriptions of the materials and processes associated with the fabrication and installation of enduse products manufactured from these materials. There will be a detailed section describing the recommended fabrication and installation principles, with criteria, requirements and drawings for each topic.

This is a huge task, but the end result will become the industry standard for quality fabrication.

40 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ISFA needs your help in producing these standards. We still have openings on the committees working on the both the solid surface and quartz surfacing fabrication standards. If you are interested in being a part of one of these teams, please contact ISFA Executive Director Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@isfanow.org.

A future goal is to incorporate these standards into the ISFA Architectural Reference. The ISFA Architectural Reference will be a hard copy and online collection of standards and other information pertaining to the surfacing industry. It will be a useful desk reference manual for fabricators, architects, designers and other industry professionals.

Contents of the ISFA Architectural Reference include: n ISFA-2-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Solid Surfacing Material n ISFA-3-01 (2013) Classification and Standards for Quartz Surfacing Material n ISFA-2-02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Solid Surfacing Material n ISFA-3 -02 (2014) Fabrication Standards for Quartz Surfacing Materials n ISFA Specification for Solid Surfacing n ISFA Specification for Quartz Surfacing n ISFA CAD Drawing Library n ISFA Architectural Reference Disc (Contains all of the above) To participate in the standards process, please contact Chuck Sawyer at cksawyer@ isfanow.org

.

ISFA Contacts Main Office

2400 Wildwood Rd. Gibsonia, PA 15044 Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 Direct: (412) 487-3207 Fax: (412) 487-3269 www.isfanow.org

Education Director Mike Nolan (828) 403-7386 mike@isfanow.org

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

Executive Director Chuck Sawyer

Administrative Assistant & Registrar Paula Goncz

Communications Director Kevin Cole

Project Manager Keith Haight

(724) 612-9768 cksawyer@isfanow.org

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

(877) 464-7732 paula@isfanow.org

(484) 354-5909 keith@isfanow.org

Fabricator Directory Companies in blue are Certified Professionals alabama

Surface One

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

Alaska

Alaskan Counter Fitters 607 Old Steese Hwy. Ste. B PMB 354 Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-455-0247

Bicknell Inc.

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

Cook Inlet Housing Authority

3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503 907-793-3047 www.cookinlethousing.org

G2 Construction

PO Box 10690 Fairbanks, AK 99710 907-458-1087 www.g2const.com

Mountain Tops LTD

6605 Arctic Spur Rd. Anchorage, AK 99518 907-272-8107 www.mountaintops.net

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

Panco Inc.

PO Box 210 Talkeetna, AK 99676 907-733-6600

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

Integra Cabinets & Millwork 249 W. Baywood #B Orange, CA 92865 714-283-2890 www.integracmw.com

Marble Expressions

1573 Seminole St. San Marcos, CA 92708 760-471-8737 www.marbleexpressions.com

Mio Metals

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

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

The Countertop Factory

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

Visalia Ceramic Tile

917 N. American St. Visalia, CA 93291559-651-2925

Colorado

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

Florida

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

Natural Stone Motif Inc.

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

Surface Crafters

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

Atlanta Kitchen Inc.

Maxwell Counters, Inc.

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

Counterfitters LLC

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

Countersync

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

DELAWARE

Hawaii

Wilmington, DE 19803 484-354-5909

1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775

Duracite

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

Keith Haight

Troy Granite Inc.

711 Interchange Blvd.

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

Dirk Foster

Georgia

Block Tops Inc.

1560 Harris Ct. Anaheim, CA 92806 714-978-5080 www.blocktops.com

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

610 N. Illinois Ave. Carbondale, IL 62901 618-457-2326 www.f-w-s.net

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.

California

Custom Marble Inc.

F-W-S Solid Surface Specialist Inc.

DMS

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

Illinois

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

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

6250 Corporate Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719-599-4175

114 Lewis St. #3 & #4 Ketchum, ID 83340 208-726-1905 www.ketchumkustom woodworks.com

Sterling Mfg.

Lovell Construction, Inc.

Kitchen Bath & Beyond

Ketchum Kustom Woodworks

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

Arlun Inc.

Arizona

Idaho

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

1400 W. Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 404-355-3108 www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc.

Superior Solid Surface 1620 Hau St. Honolulu, HI 96817 808-842-5556

PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848

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

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.

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

Solid Surface Creations Inc.

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

Sprovieri’s Custom Cabinets 55 Laura Dr. Addison, IL 60101 630-917-4690 www.sprovieris.com

Stalwart Systems

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

Stevens Industries Inc. 704 W. Main St. Teutopolis, IL 62427 217-540-3100 www.stevensinc.com

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 41

Fabricator Directory (continued) Companies in blue are Certified Professionals Ultimate Stone Inc.

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

Indiana

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

Bollock Industries Inc.

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

Countertop Pros

5901 S. Range Rd. North Judson, IN 46366 574-896-6013

VT Industries

1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com

Kansas

Countertop Shoppe

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

Fisher Lumber Co., Inc. PO Box 355 Garden Plain, KS 67050 316-531-2295

Mid-America Kitchens & Baths

1105 N. Industrial Marion, KS 66861 620-382-3390 www.midamericamarble Hard Surface Fabrications, Inc./ products.com/

Kormax

810 S. Beiger St. Mishawaka, IN 46544 574-259-4843

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.

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

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

Michiana Laminated Products Inc.

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

Iowa

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

Granite Custom Design

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

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

Surface Solutions Inc.

323 La Porte Rd. Waterloo, IA 50702 319-287-5056 www.surfacesolutionsia.com

Parman Brothers LTD

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

Top Master Inc.

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

Kentucky

Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

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

Louisiana

Dan Solid Surfaces

2020 Dallas Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 225-216-3900 www.dansolidsurface.com

Top Distributors LLC 412 Post Oak Rd. Sulphur, LA 70663 337-625-5751

Maine

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

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

Massachusetts

MissISSIPPI

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

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

PADCO Countertop Co.

Montana

Jack’s Custom Alexander Woodworking/JCW Countertop Counterwrights

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

Sterling Surfaces

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

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.

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

TWD Surfaces

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

Michigan Blasius Inc.

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

Marbelite Corp.

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

Paxton Countertops PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

6689 Sterling Dr. S. Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-274-9668

Minnesota

Innovative Surfaces Inc.

Maryland

515 Spiral Blvd.

Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004

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

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

SolidTops LLC

42 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

The Pinske Edge

BMC

3200 Hwy. 12 E. PO Box 5780 Helena, MT 59404 www.buildwithbmc.com

Jim Shreve

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

Pyramid Cabinet Shop

1201 Fourth Ave. N. Billings, MT 59101 406-671-8329 www.pyramid-cabinet.com

Solid Surface Designs 233 Lambeth Rd. Billings, MT 417-258-2787 www.ssdionline.com

VanSetten Walker Construction Co.

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

WoodCo LLC

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

Nebraska

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

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

Lincoln Laminating Inc.

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

Nevada

B & C Cabinets & Millwork Inc. 5241 Metric Way Carson City, NV 89706 775-322-6000

Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund 6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111

The Countertop Shop, LLC 301B Sunpac Ct. Henderson, NV 702-839-2224 www.thecountertopshopllc.biz

New Jersey

J. Dougherty & Son/ JDS Supply 337 N. Main St. Glassboro, NJ 08028 856-881-5444 www.JDSsupply.com

J&M Lifestyles

215 Rte. 10 Building 3 Randolph, NJ 07869 973-668-5057 www.jmlifestyles.com

Marvic Corp.

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

Solid Surface Designs Inc.

1651 Sherman Ave. Pennsauken, NJ 08110 856-910-7720 www.ssdtops.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc.

New York

Ohio

Oklahoma

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

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

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

Busch Products Inc.

Dimensional Stone and Tile Designs 146 E. 3rd St. Mt Vernon, NY 10550 914-664-1200

Evans & Paul LLC

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

Marker Systems Inc.

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

Modern Home Distributing

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

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

1136 Industrial Pkwy.

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

Unico Special Products Inc.

New Mexico

Wilbedone Inc.

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

Jaynes Structures

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

OGB Architectural Millwork

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

Pieper Construction

2420 N. White Sands Blvd.

Alamogordo, NM 88310 575-437-2262 www.pieperconstruction.com

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

25 Renwick St. Newburgh, NY 12550 845-562-9255 www.unicospecialproducts.com 1133 NYS Rte. 222 Cortland, NY 13045 800-734-8813 www.wilbedone.com

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

Meld USA Inc.

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

Premier Plus Inc.

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

Windbound Co.

PO Box 817 Glen Alpine, NC 28628 828-438-0892 www.windboundsurfaces.com

Bertke Countertops

Hoffman Fixtures Co.

Cabinets 2 Countertops

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

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc. 1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com

Oregon

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

Pennsylvania A.S.S.T.

Granex Industries

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

Heritage Marble Inc. 7086 Huntley Rd. Columbus, OH 43229 614-436-7465

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

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

Kitchens by Rutenschroer

Blume’s Solid Surface Products

Korkan Granite

Chuck Sawyer

L. E. Smith Co.

John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.

Laminate Shop, Inc.

McGrory Inc.

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

904 Freeport Rd. Freeport, PA 16229 724-294-3190 www.blumes.net

4802 Au Sable Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 412-213-0370

4561 Crystal Pkwy.

Kent, OH 44240 330-677-1883 www.korkangranite.com 1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com

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

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

Solid Surfaces Plus

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

The Countertop Shop LTD

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

4640 Manufacturing Rd. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-267-7040 www.solidsurfacesplus.com 10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net

Top Shelf Laminated Products 400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289

Tower Industries

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

Pence Countertops Inc.

Rhode Island New England Counter Top

PO Box F Pawtucket, RI 02861 508-761-7588

South Carolina Solid Products

109 Lazenby Dr. Ft. Mill, SC 29715 704-236-9796 www.solidproducts.biz International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 43

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

Virginia

Canada

Mexico

41181 179th St. Raymond, SD 57258 605-532-4150

9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com

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

Boulevard Hacienda Galindo 116 Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230 Mexico 52-4422342743

Dakotaland Woodwork & Cabinets LLC

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

Formatop Co.

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

Tennessee

Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.

1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626 www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.

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

Texas

Classic Counter Tops

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

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

Southwestern Counter Tops & Millwork 4100 Frankfort Ave. El Paso, TX 79903 915-562-1116 www.swcelpaso@elp.rr.co

Metro Stone Works LLC

Surface Link Corp.

4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.com

TRINDCO

1004 Obici Industrial Blvd.

Suffolk, VA 23434 757-539-0262 www.trindco.com

Washington

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

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

RD Wing

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

Sheridan Woodworking LLC 2175 Frog Hollow Rd. Walla Walla, WA 99362 509-540-7799

Synsor Corp.

1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy.

Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604

West Virginia

Alternative Building Concepts, Inc. 4341 Rt. 60 E. Ste. 187 Huntington, WV 25705 304-736-0494

Utah

Wisconsin

250 E. 400 S. Vernal, UT 84078 801-414-3512

700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 715-787-4410 www.bisfab.com

Alternative Surface

Quality Craft Wood Works HC 60 Box 703 Rocky Ridge, UT 84645 435-623-1707

Utah Kitchen and Bath

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

Bisley Fabrication Inc.

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

Spectrum Surfaces Inc. 812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 920-337-6575

44 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Colonial Countertops Ltd.

Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc.

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

Executive Millwork #5 1212 38 Ave. N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 6N2 Canada 403-291-0400

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

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

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

Granit Design

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

France

CREA Diffusion

ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com

Germany

Rosskopf & Partner AG Bahnhofstrasse 16 D 09573 Augustusburg — Hennersdorf Germany www.rosskopf-partner.com 493-729-12524

Lebanon

Respond S.A.L.

1st Floor Missirian Bldg.

Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414

Victor Coronado Services

RUSSIA

ARTCOR

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

United Kiingdom Interfab LTD

Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk

Specialty Surfaces Fabricators, Manufacturers and Experts

Membership Application Main: (877) 464-7732 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.ISFANow.org

Renewal Instructions: To renew your membership with ISFA, simply fill out the Personal Information section, and Payment Method and that’s it! Fax it back to (412) 487-3269 and we’ll do the rest. Please allow 2-4 weeks for your membership renewal packet to be delivered.

New Member Instructions: For Surfacing Experts wanting to become a new member, please fill out the entire form. Membership in ISFA is the industry endorsement of high quality.

This endorsement cannot be purchased for the price of membership, but must be established by the company and upheld by each member of the organization.

Fax this form back to (412) 487-3269 and we’ll do the rest.Your new membership packet will be in the mail shortly. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.

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

Email: q Check here if you do not wish to receive Product and Service information from ISFA and our industry partners via email.

I Am: q Renewing My ISFA Membership

q Applying to Become a New Member

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

q Visa

q Mastercard

q American Express

q Discover

Card Number: Print Name on Card: Expiration Date: Official Signature:

If paying by check, fax copy along with this order form. You can also mail this form to: ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044.

New Member Information Type of Membership: (please select one) q ISFA Membership: $400 — Any Specialty Surfaces

company that has been in business at least two years and carries appropriate liability insurance.

q Subscriber Membership: $400 — Applicant companies which meet all other qualifications, but have been in business for less than two years shall be eligible for Subscriber Membership in the Association.

q Branch Membership: $200 — Branch Membership is

available to companies having more than one location.

Each location must fill out seperate membership applications. Branch Membership annual dues are one-half that of the headquarters location. Each location wlll be treated as a separate member in all respects, except only headquarter locations may vote in general elections.

Code of Ethics

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

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

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

(please sign below)

Each member of the International Surface Fabricators Association agrees to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of their business.

By adhering strictly to the highest quality standards of fabrication, manufacturing and installation. By promoting only those products and services that are proven quality and value. By writing contracts and warranties that are clear, honest and fair to all parties involved. By honoring all contractual obligations in a reasonably prompt manner. By quickly acting on and attempting to resolve all customer complaints, and in situations where complaints appear unreasonable and persistent, by encouraging the customer to initiate and approach third-party dispute settlement mechanisms. By being fiscally responsible and honoring all legitimate financial obligations, By maintaining all required licenses and insurances.

I,_______________________________, do hereby certify that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and do agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of the International Surface Fabricators Association for as long as I hold an active membership therein.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 45

Product News Karran Introduces New Quartz Sink for Seamless Integration into Laminate, Solid Surface Karran introduced the new Q-350 sink in its

plastic bag for easy dust removal. The collector is small, weighs approximately 50 lbs., runs on

110 volts and has an optional cart for portability.

Circle RS#52 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

the correct angle and there is no raking. The

Quartz Series that is designed for seamless

connector eliminates the need to clamp, which

integration in laminate and solid surface. The

is faster, uses less space and prevents marring.

undermount sink is made of high-grade quartz

Workpieces connected with Tenso P-14 are

crystals and acrylic resins, and has dimensions of

easily stackable and can be moved immediately

32⅜ in. by 19 in. by 8½ in. The sinks are available

— no wait time for glue drying process.

in six colors: White, Bisque, Grey, Concrete,

Brown and Black. They are scratch- and chip-

Installation of the connector is simple — a

resistant, will not fade, will not support bacteria

T-shaped groove is made in the workpiece

growth, have uniform color throughout and are

by almost any CNC machine with a mounted

heat-resistant to more than 530 F.

groove cutter or the new hand-held Lamello

Zeta P 2 Biscuit Joiner with oscillating (up and

Circle RS#50 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

GranQuartz Offers New Dishwasher Brackets GranQuartz E-Z Bracket for

dishwashers attaches to the cabinet

with wood screws as well as to the

countertop with impact absorbing

adhesive caulk or silicone. It is made to

accommodate virtually any dishwasher

on the market and may be installed before

or after countertop installation. There is

joint so it ensures that the clamping force is at

Elkay Crosstown Series Provides Nine Sinks

down) cutter action. The connector is then

inserted by hand into the T groove, locking into

the workpiece for a strong and tight installation.

Available from Elkay are nine undermount

Glue is applied to the joint and then Tenso P-14

fabrication, creating the commercial look many

There is no risk of torsional movement because

apron-front style sinks have an innovative new

and aligns with only one fitting. The connectors

modified sink base cabinet to house these semi-

available in 80, 300 and 1,000 pair packaging.

Crosstown sink models that feature hand-

snaps together creating an invisible connection.

homeowners desire. Two of the Crosstown

of its patented ridge system, which connects

installation option: Instead of having to order a

are suitable for a variety of applications, and are

exposed models, the new apron design utilizes a sink front that slips over the front edge of the

Circle RS#54 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

allowing for retrofitting to an existing kitchen.

Polycor Introduces Unique Hardware

bracket across the top of the dishwasher bay,

17-in. front-to-back bowl dimension, providing

Polycor Inc. introduced Pierre Habitat, a new

screws provided at each end. The brackets

allowing for a standard faucet installation.

galvanized steel.

for easy cleaning and a Sound Guard®

Circle RS#51 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

reduces condensation. They are made

no need for the dishwasher to be on-site

because of the multiple attachment locations.

Countertop installers need only install the

flush tabs to the face of cabinet and install

are made in the United States from 22-gauge

Oneida Air Systems Offers High Suction Dust Collector The Oneida Air Systems Dust Cobra is a high suction dust collector with Rapid Pulse internal filter cleaner and full unit HEPA

certification that meets EPA

RRP requirements including lead. The cyclone system pre-separates 99 percent of dust, dropping it into

a 17-gal. bin lined with a 46 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

sink base cabinet, making installation easier and All of the sink models in the series feature a maximum space within the sink yet

hardware brand that

Each sink is 9 in. deep, has 15mm corners

the manufacturing

undercoating which dampens sound and

and Vetrazzo. Raw

with 18-gauge, type 304 stainless steel, and custom-fit stainless steel wire grids are also available.

Circle RS#53 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Colonial Saw Brings on New Lamello Connectors Colonial Saw now carries the new

Tenso® P-14 connector from Lamello that

allows users to quickly and easily create

completely invisible connections. Made

from rugged fiberglass-reinforced plastic, Tenso P-14 pulls from the center of the

utilizes materials from

processes of Polycor

materials, excess granite,

marble, limestone and

Vetrazzo recycled glass are combined with

an innovative manufacturing

technique to produce cabinet pulls and knobs

with distinct designs and colorful materials. The collection includes 10 designs available in eight metal finishes. Customers can choose from 26

Vetrazzo colors as well as five white marble, two black limestone and four Canadian granites.

Pierre Habitat will also custom manufacture

hardware pieces from sink cutouts or remnants provided by the customer.

Circle RS#55 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

new graphic patterns are inspired by timeless textile designs. Decorative patterns include:

Cosmos, Flare, Loom, Marrakesh, Morocco, Serpentine and Tabby, and are highlighted

with a signature Móz textural grain. They are available in 48- by 96-in. and 48- by 120-in.

aluminum or corrugated aluminum sheets with

thicknesses that range from 0.04 in. to 0.125 in.

They are fabricated from recycled aluminum and contribute to LEED 2.0 MR Credit 4 recycled content. Created for a versatile range of

applications, the multilayered metal panels can

Móz Designs Expands Metal Panel Offering Móz Designs expanded the color-rich options

be installed as surface laminates or specified as column covers, room dividers, art panels, table tops, and terrace and keyway wall systems.

Circle RS#56 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

the SAi EnRoute 5 product family includes more than two dozen new productivity enhancing features and improvements including new

import filters, additional nesting options for the Automatic Toolpath Processing (ATP)

option and new Parametric Textures. With an

expanded range of import filters, SAi EnRoute 5.1 users benefit from improved compatibility with a variety of CAD programs. SAi EnRoute

5.1’s AutoCAD® DXF/DWG import filters now

accommodate current AutoCAD® objects, while both the Adobe® Illustrator and Acrobat import filters have been updated to support current

and legacy AI and PDF files, now supporting the import of layers. It can also take in Wavefront

3D OBJ files, and features support for Caldera

SAi EnRoute Has New 5.1 Update

digital registration and contour cut as well as

of panels. Subtle tones, such as Honey,

alongside vibrant renditions of Clementine Red,

SA International (SAi) has announced the

20 different cabinet and furniture design

available on the Graphix Metal Collection

Aubergine, Lime and Smoke, are now available

Peacock Blue, Mandarin Orange and Onyx. The

improved Onyx XML import. The software’s

ATP engine has now been expanded to support

availability of SAi EnRoute 5.1. This update for

applications. It also brings two new texture

ISFA Member since 1998

Circle RS#17 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Circle RS#18 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 47

Product News tools to design and create an unlimited number of possible textures to apply to a 3-D surface.

The new Flow Texture produces a 3-D surface with the random characteristics of a flowing fluid, and the Phase Texture generates a distinct sequence of recurring waveforms.

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

natural quartz stone, making them durable and low maintenance. They are available in four

organic tones and have extra-deep offset bowls and low dividers. Available in standard sizes, the drop-in models reflect a contemporary

design applied to classic sink features. With no faucet hole and smaller rim dimensions, the undermount model mounts under any

countertop material including granite, quartz, solid surface and tile.

Circle RS#58 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Outwater Introduces Aluminum Panel Clips Outwater Plastics Industries introduced its

Swan Offers New Granite Sinks Swan offers a line of M-Series Granite Sinks available in both drop-in and undermount models. The sinks are made with 80 percent

Aluminum Panel Clips for hanging cabinets, wall

panels, partitions, signage and frames. The clips enable quick and easy installations with less

labor and cost. Users attach the upper portion of the clip to the back of the object to be hung

and the lower portion to the mounting surface to prepare the item for installation. The clips then

connect and lock together by merely lowering the upper portion that has been attached to the object to be hung into the groove of the lower portion that has been fastened to the intended mounting surface. In addition, the Aluminum Panel Clips readily allow items to be demounted as required. They are stocked in mill finished, extruded aluminum in 4-ft., 8-ft. and 12-ft. lengths. They are precut into 1½-in., 2-in. and 2½-in. pieces both with and without predrilled holes (holes are 3/16-in. diameter and accommodate #10 screws) in eight different profiles, permitting installed items to rest flush against any mounting surface.

Circle RS#59 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2013

Circle RS#19 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

48 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Circle RS#20 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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

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Volume 7 / Issue 1 Get Your Free Product Information Today: For more facts on products and services, please fill out all the information below and circle the product referral numbers that are found in the magazine. Product referral numbers can be found below each advertisement. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer. You can submit this form via mail, fax, email (editor@isfanow.org) or visit us online at www.ISFAnow.org/info.

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

q Manufacturer

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q Woodworker/Cabinetmaker

q Builder/Remodeler

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

Which one category best describes your job title/function? q Owner/Partner/Corporate Management and Related Personnel q Production/Plant Management and Related Personnel q Design (includes staff designer/architect and related personnel) q Purchasing/Specifier and Related Personnel q Marketing & Sales Management and Related Personnel q Other (please specify)

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

C01 Abrasives

C12 Sealers/Polishes

C02 Adhesives

C13 Seaming Equipment

C03 Air Quality Equipment

C14 Sinks

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

What surfacing materials do you work with?

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

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

C15 Software

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56

C17 Stone

57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64

C19 Tooling

65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

C21 Waterjet Equipment

73

C16 Solid Surface

C18 Templating Equipment C20 Training

C22 Other Materials

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • 49

Classifieds —WANTED TO BUY—

Used V-grooving Machinery Looking to purchase 2 or 3 v-grooving machines Please call Michelle at 714-702-0441

Ad Index Referral Number

Page Number

11

Beckart Environmental, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

10

Betterly Industries, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

08

Chemical Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Fabricators!

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

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

Email us today at editor@isfanow.org.

To place a paid classified ad, for those of you who are not fabricator members, email kevin@isfanow.org or call (815) 721-1507.

13 Cosentino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 20 CountertopResource.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 03 Coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 19 FabricatorsFriend.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 24

Integra Adhesives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

23

ISFA Grassroots Gathering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

60

ISFA Fabrication Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

07

ISFA Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

21

ISFA Regional Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

01 ITW Polymers Sealants North America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 05

IWF Atlanta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

06

Laser Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

17

Oneida Air Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

02

Park Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

18

Performance Abrasives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

22

Regent Stone Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

12 Vicostone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 09 Water Treatment Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 50 • Vol. 7 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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