ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 9, Issue 1 - Q1 2016

VOLUME 9 / ISSUE 1 • QUARTER 1, 2016 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

Annual New Colors & Materials Spotlight Page 22 Industry Outlook for 2016 and Beyond Page 30 OSHA Fines—A Look at the First Increases in 25 Years Page 42

Diversity and Positivity

A fabricator shares his thoughts on giving customers what they want, and how they want it, all with a smile Page 36

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ISFA Member since 2010

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CREDITS Letters to the Editor

Photography

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

Photography/graphics provided by: Premier Countertops.

Contacting ISFA

Adam Albee, President Mell Hill, Immediate Past President Ryan Miller, Vice President Kate Dillenburg, Treasurer Erica Hussey, Secretary

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces welcomes Letters to the Editor.

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

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

About This Magazine

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

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

Call for details. To subscribe, call (412) 487-3207. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission.

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

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

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

4 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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

ISFA Officers of the Board

ISFA Directors

Mike Woods, Director Kelley Montana, Director John Hansen, Associate Member Representative Jessica McNaughton, Associate Member Representative

ISFA Staff

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

Cover Photo

This photo taken at a show home in Omaha, Neb., depicts a high-end waterfall countertop made from Cosentino’s Dekton compact sintered surface in the Kairos color. Premier Countertops, the fabricator, shares its secrets to success on Page 36.

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CONTENTS

Features 22 New Colors & Materials Spotlight

Examining the latest colors and surfacing materials on the market

30 Industry Outlook What does the industry look like in 2016 and beyond?

36 Fabricator Profile: Premier Countertops Finding success via diversification and positivity

22

42 OSHA Fines for Workplace Safety Violations Increase for First Time in 25 Years

Preparing to avoid potentially costly problems

Departments 8 From the Editor 10 From the President 12 From the Executive Director

30

14 Calendar of Events 16 Education Connection 18 Industry News 44 ISFA News 48 ISFA Fabricator Directory 52 Product News 57 Reader Service Form

36

6 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

42

58 Classifieds/Ad Index

Circle RS#04 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 1998

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

Bestsellers Aren’t Necessarily the ‘Best’ (or How I Learned to Trust the Experts) If you know me, then you are likely aware that I

I finished college and began my career as a

failing to invest enough in the business. Sure, you

but my love of reading (and subsequently writing)

belt. But then, life set in, and I had a family and

over minimum wage that can do the job (with

am an avid reader. This is probably dating myself, came about in grade school when I was first

journalist, I had thousands of books under my responsibility. While I still enjoyed reading, it

introduced to “Choose Your Own Adventure”

took a backseat to paying the bills. However, I

to you, depending on your generation, but to

— just 52 books a year. I lamented over the

these books were written in a way that let you

would only be able to finish a mere 2,600 more

books. That series of books might not be familiar

made it a point to read at least one book a week

me it brings back fond memories. Basically,

fact that if I lived another 50 years, that meant I

choose what the character (supposedly you,

books — too few for a lifetime.

the reader) did next in the story, and there were numerous paths and endings and you could

reread the same books repeatedly with different outcomes each time. This led me to bigger

and better books, like the best-sellers, such as

Stephen King, and even a bit of actual literature, like J.R.R. Tolkien. However, I always avoided

reading the so-called “classics.” I just never had the will to wade through a Dickens novel or a

Shakespearian play — until I went to college, when there was no avoiding it.

However, one thing I did make sure of, was

to choose my reading material wisely. If I was limited to just 2,600 more books, then I was going to make sure every one was worth

investing my time in. No more third-rate authors of the day were going to sit upon my shelf. I

wanted experts whose novels, when the last

page was read to the last word, would make a difference in my life and leave a lasting

impression. And today, when life affords me the time, you may find me with a book in my hand,

At the university, especially with a double major

but it is a rare occasion that it will be someone

around the canonized authors. So, I did what

among the best.

in English and journalism, there is no getting

other than those whose expertise are considered

I had to do, and to my surprise, I realized why

Of course, there is a bit of a down side to reading

they were considered the “masters.” The novels I was forced to read made all of my previous reading pale in comparison. These people

really knew how to tell a story in a compelling way, using deliberate word choices that drew

me in like no books before them. I found both wondrous and humorous worlds in Vonnegut and Dick; concise yet gripping stories in

Hemingway and Faulkner; strange and terrifying mysteries with Lovecraft and Poe; desperate

tales of depression and grief with Dostoyevsky and Steinbeck; and satire and adventure with

Waugh and Twain. These writers were the real

deal. They were artists! Craftsmen! Capturers of

thoughts, dreams and ideas! And, so much more than most of the best-sellers of the day.

I found myself burning through books like the firemen from Fahrenheit 451, and by the time

8 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

only grand works in that these books take more

of an investment. They aren’t just simple, passive

reads that can be glossed over without any effort.

There is an active investment that has to be made to gain the benefit of some of the complexities

and nuances found in these masterworks. Just ask anyone who has invested in reading Crime and Punishment, Moby Dick or 1984, if it was

easy reading, and they will likely tell you it took

plenty of thought and effort. But then ask them if it was worth the effort when they were finished, and they will undoubtedly offer a profound

may be able to hire a temp at a couple of bucks a lot of effort to get them just enough ability),

but how much does it cost you in time, rework and callbacks? What is the real cost of a bad

seam in terms of referrals? You may be able to bring in a salesperson with the disposition of a

used car salesman for “a steal,” but how much business walks away in response to the harsh

approach he may take? You can probably save a

few extra bucks in the short run by pushing back maintenance just another week or two, but what happens when you have an equipment failure

because of it? You might save a few dollars by only training your staff enough to “get the job

done,” but how much would you have made if you would have invested in turning them into

craftsmen rather than just workers? Does it really pay to save money now on low-quality, low-cost

equipment or consumables, when in the long haul it costs more in man-hours, repairs or upgrades?

It pays to go with the experts and do things right the first time. I look back and think about the

thousands of book-of-the-month club novels I read and how it could have been thought-

provoking masterpieces instead of just, um,

pieces, and I wish I would have listened to the

sages that urged me to read Kerouac instead of

Koontz (although I must admit I still don’t care for Dickens to this day). Thankfully, reading choices aren’t as critical as business choices. But think

about it; who do you want in your business, J.D. Salinger or V.C. Andrews?

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

affirmation.

Likewise, in business, owners and managers often make the same mistake I did early in

my fiction addiction by choosing substandard

products “to save a couple of bucks,” hiring the

cheapest option instead of the expert option and

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

ISFA Member since 2000

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From the President From the Desk of Adam Albee, ISFA President, 2016

Invest in Knowledge “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” — Benjamin Franklin

next seven years. We continued to pay our

dues, but never really experienced the value ISFA has to offer.

Why belong to ISFA? What’s in it for me? It’s as though some people expect to gain value

Three years ago, I was approached to join the

year. That somehow, by writing that check,

maybe as a board member I can bring about

from ISFA simply by paying their dues every

ISFA Board of Directors. I remember thinking,

a magic door will open showering them with

knowledge, connections and new profits. While

all those things are achieved every year by ISFA members, there’s one important piece of the

equation that many miss and, in turn, don’t get to experience the most valuable things ISFA

has to offer. The key to unlocking the value of

some kind of change in ISFA that will make it

more valuable to “experienced” fabricators like myself. I now realize how inexperienced I was,

and honestly feel a bit embarrassed for thinking that way. The amount of knowledge within ISFA is staggering. It quickly became clear that the

only reason I wasn’t extracting value from ISFA

ISFA is choosing to be engaged.

is because I wasn’t engaged. It’s true that you don’t know, what you don’t know.

I know because I’m now more engaged than I ever thought I would be. And the value

Joining the board required immediate

probably similar to many. I was a young

energy. The returns come in small doses, but

is enormous. My introduction to ISFA was

engagement and investment of my time and

manager learning the industry and my boss

over time they are huge. I’ve learned so much

sent me to an ISFA regional meeting. I didn’t

about my business and the industry as a whole

know anyone, and at the time, felt pretty

ISFA meeting and work the room a bit. Ask questions, and I guarantee you’ll walk away with something that will help you to achieve your goals.

You have so many opportunities to engage this year and invest in yourself and your business.

The Senior Management Conference in March, the Effective Commercial Business seminar in April, and the Annual Meeting and Conference in Cancun this November are just a few of the opportunities ISFA members can invest in this year. We are also working on new ways to give our members the opportunity to engage without traveling via our ISFA House Calls program in which we will send an expert to your shop to train your staff on fabrication or business optimization.

It’s going to be a great year for ISFA and our members. Invest in yourself, engage in ISFA and reap the rewards.

by interacting with ISFA members at meetings,

uncomfortable networking. I didn’t really

by email and over the phone. I’ve also formed

engage. Predictably, I didn’t feel as though

valuable relationships that are providing me

there was much value in the experience. I

with an avenue to grow my business. If you’re

realize now, it was my fault for not extracting

looking to grow your business, launch a new

value from that meeting, or from ISFA for the

product or add to your bottom line, attend an

Adam Albee, ISFA President adam@lincolnlaminating.com

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

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

(412) 487-3207 www.ISFAnow.org

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10 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Circle RS#06 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2015

From the Executive Director From the Desk of Mike Langenderfer, Executive Director

No Regrets When I was the president of ISFA three years ago, the theme of the letters I wrote for this magazine was “Wow! What a … .” I challenged all of you to get involved and not be left behind.

Well, it’s three years later and I’m back and still saying, “Wow, what a ride.”

I just returned from the funeral for my aunt.

She was almost 103 years old. Her sister, who walks to mass every morning, was there. She is almost 104 years old. When I think back 100 years to what the industry must have been like, I have to say wow. There was no solid surface, no quartz, not even laminate back then. Can you only imagine?

As the Executive Director of ISFA, I can answer that question. The answer is to get involved

with associations. Of course I am suggesting

ISFA as one of those associations, but any and all related associations could be important.

The Internet is great and you can search for anything, but you can’t feel the answer. You can’t feel the attitude of the people in the

room or see the body language of the person

You need to get out and get involved. I hear the same excuses all the time that “I’m too

busy” or “I can’t afford it.” Well, I’ll tell you from experience if you think you’re too busy you’re

not and if you think you can’t afford it you can.

What if you could go to an association meeting, seminar, luncheon or a simple round-table

answering the question or debate the answer.

event and leave with an idea that could save

As someone once said, the future is now. I

idea that would put $40,000 more money in

was at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show last week and the new products, materials and ways of getting things done could be

Then I find it difficult to imagine what they will have for countertops when I’m in my 100s (or I should say 38 years from now since I doubt I will still be kicking). Maybe someone will have invented some virtual reality substance that hangs in midair and never needs cleaning or polishing, is never hot or cold, and interprets what your mood is and adjusts accordingly.

Who knows?

called futuristic. There were some really cool

I just returned from the Cosentino 100 in Mexico — a gathering of the top fabricators of Cosentino products. Its new ultra compact Dekton could be the product of the future. While I’m not writing to promote any one product to you, and there were a couple of similar materials at KBIS, these materials are unbelievable. They don’t expand and contract, they are UV-stable, and they are impervious to most known chemicals. They are a product of the future and are just emerging today.

keep repeating that all the time, but just imagine

Thinking about the past, how many of you can tell me what countertops were shown on The Jetsons? Can anyone tell me when laminate came onto the market? What about quartz?

Of course granite has been here since the beginning, but my point is how can you know what the future is going to bring?

“the market was bad,” “costs are too high,” or

12 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

the guy down the street unless you want to be.

innovations and designs; some outstanding

you $20,000 a year? I did. Or left with a new

your pocket over the next year? Todd did. Or turn your business around and take it to the

next level? I can give you the names of several people that did.

new quartz colors; and new ways of doing the

All of these ideas I just mentioned were and

same old things.

ISFA. ISFA can offer you in-house training on

old things we have always done. Not just the

Three years ago when I was writing my column in this magazine I said don’t end the year

wondering what would have happened if you would have made a change. I’m not going to yourself at the end of the year. Just imagine

still are available to you by belonging to

fabrication and business knowledge through the ISFA House Calls Program. We have

commercial business classes scheduled. We

have 2nd Generation Roundtables and Senior Management Seminars scheduled. We have

an Annual Meeting in Mexico next November

my aunt looking back over the 102+ years and

that members can and should attend. In other

you going to be able to look back at what you

year for you to get out of the office, learn some

imagine what you could have done?

business. Check the website at www.ISFAnow.

saying “Wow, what if I would have … ?” Are

words, there are numerous opportunities this

accomplished or are you going to sit there and

new things, share some ideas and grow your

Only you can change the outcome at the end

of the year. Only you can make this year a great year. I don’t accept excuses when people say,

org for some great upcoming events.

Finally I will leave you with this. Think about it?

Just imagine? What if I would have … ?

“I can’t find good help.” Excuses lurk around every corner: It doesn’t make a difference

if you’re an architect, designer, commercial

fabricator, kitchen & bath outlet or just a oneman shop. If you are going to keep saying “I

can’t,” then you won’t. You are no different than

Mike Langenderfer, Executive Director mike@isfanow.org

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Calendar of Events ISFA CEO & Upper Management Gathering Sponsored by Cosentino and Creative Countertop Solutions March 16 – 18 Nashville, Tenn.

(412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Movelsul Furniture Show Brasil 2016 March 14 – 18 Bento Goncalves, Brazil (54) 2102-6800 ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar April 7 – 8 St. Louis, Mo. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Coverings 2016 April 18 – 21 Chicago, Ill. (866) 285-3691 www.coverings.com ISFA Transition: Generation 2 Workshop April 28 – 29 Toledo, Ohio (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org MIA Stone Industry Education Series May 11 Edison, N.J. (440) 250-9222 Hermance Expo 2016 May 11-12 Williamsport, Pa. (570) 326-9156 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 17 – 20 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org MIA Stone Industry Education Series May 19 Seattle, Wash.

(440) 250-9222 MIA Stone Industry Education Series June 9 Wixom, Mich.

(440) 250-9222 Regent Stone Top Polish Engineered Stone & Granite Repair Course June 9 – 10 Arizona (866) 233-4877 14 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

MIA Stone Industry Education Series June 23 Toronto, Ontario, Canada (440) 250-9222 Dwell on Design June 24 – 26 Los Angeles, Calif (800) 451-1196 MIA Stone Industry Education Series July 14 Birmingham, Ala. (440) 250-9222 ISFA/IWF Countertop Symposium Aug. 23 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333 www.iwfatlanta.com IWF 2016 Aug. 24 – 27 Atlanta, Ga. (404) 693-8333 www.iwfatlanta.com Marmomacc Sept. 28 – Oct. 1 Verona, Italy 045 829-8111 ISFA CEO & Upper Management Gathering Sept. 14 – 15 New York, N.Y. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org MIA Stone Industry Education Series Sept. 22 Minneapolis, Minn.

(440) 250-9222 Concrete Décor Show Sept. 25 – 29 San Diego, Calif.

(877) 935-8906 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Sept. 27 – 30 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org MIA Stone Industry Education Series Oct. 6 San Antonio, Texas (440) 250-9222

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

866-815-9824 MIA Stone Industry Education Series Oct. 19 San Diego, Calif.

(440) 250-9222 Canada Woodworking East Nov. 2 – 3 Montreal, Quebec, Canada (888) 454-7469 ISFA 2016 Annual Meeting & Conference Nov. 8 – 11 Cancun, Mexico (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Surface & Panel Symposium Nov. 14 – 16 Denver, Colo.

(920) 206-1766 ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone Dec. 6 – 9 Virginia Beach, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) Jan. 10 – 12, 2017 Orlando, Fla. (877) 267-4662 NAHB Int’l. Builders Show (IBS) Jan. 10 – 12, 2017 Orlando, Fla. (800) 967-8619 The Int’l. Surface Event/StonExpo West Jan. 17 – 20, 2017 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 967-8619

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

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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 Note from the Editor: As one of my favorite poets, William Butler Yeats, once wrote, “Education is not

entering the market to seasoned fabricators, the

the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” I have personally seen that soliloquy take place in this

event will cover things like new materials, working

industry many times over the years — someone gets involved and gets educated on the possibilities and their enthusiasm turns into a blaze. As such, there are several educational opportunities approaching, and so here is a primer to make you aware of some of the highlights.

CEO and Upper Management Gathering

Coverings Trade Show

Hosted by Creative Countertop Solutions in

Chicago April 18 to 21, the Coverings trade

Nashville, on March 17 and 18 (with a reception

the night before on March 16) and sponsored by Cosentino, this event allows you to join owners,

CEOs and senior management in the fabrication industry for two days of discussion, networking

and the exchange of ideas to grow your business.

Take home ideas that can increase your bottom line and better manage industry relationships.

Also, share your growth strategies and gain

feedback from the group. A presentation on

Modern Materials by Jessica McNaughton of

CaraGreen is also part of the package. Find out more or register by clicking the “ISFA EVENTS/ TRAINING” tab on the ISFA website at www.ISFAnow.org.

This year being held at McCormick Place in show is an expo dedicated to showcasing the newest in natural stone and ceramic tile. It

features exhibitors from more than 50 countries

and attracts thousands of industry professionals.

Coverings is the stage for introducing some

of the most innovative stone and tile products in the world. The exposition also serves as a

valuable resource for continuing education for all categories of attendees, with informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration

sessions conducted throughout the four days and all free of charge. Register for free at

information and strategies to successfully tap

into the growing commercial market to expand

and evolve your business. This educational event will help fabricators understand how to adapt

their business toward commercial opportunities, optimize their operations and capitalize on

commercial projects. It is designed to educate attendees on what it takes to compete in

learn transition and succession strategies.

Contact Executive Director Mike Langenderfer

at mike@isfanow.org or (419) 779-0164 for more information.

Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training

assist your company to target and win

commercial business. Contact Executive Director Mike Langenderfer at mike@isfanow.org or (419) 779-0164 for more information.

of the expo floor open from Aug. 24 to 27. Some of the latest and greatest countertop-related products will be on display, and the ISFA staff and board of directors will be on-site at Booth #4260. So come by and talk to us about what’s happening with ISFA and the industry in general.

Go to the IWF website at www.iwfatlanta.com for more information.

Early Registration for 2016 ISFA Annual Meeting & Conference in Cancun year’s Annual Meeting & Conference being held at from Nov. 8 to 11. The event is sponsored by Cosentino, Kohler, Gluewarehouse.com, Integra Adhesives and Artisan Manufacturing. Build your network, reconnect with old friends, and learn new ways to improve your business all while experiencing a stunning beachfront resort on the most beautiful strip of Punta Cancun. This year’s agenda is designed to provide you with the perfect balance of educational and networking opportunities, as well as ample time to relax and

four-day event running from May 17 to 20 covers

to enjoy additional days at the resort by adding

487-3207 for more information or instructions on

TRAINING” tab on the ISFA website at

Beach, Va., location and endorsed by ISFA, this

enjoy yourself. We’ve also made it easy for you

both fabrication and repair of quartz surfacing and nights to your stay after the event. Find out granite/natural stone. Call the ISFA office at (412) more or register by clicking the “ISFA EVENTS/ how to register.

IWF Countertop Symposium and Countertop Pavilion Once again ISFA is putting on its Countertop Symposium at IWF in Atlanta on August 23.

This full day event, which runs the day before

the IWF expo opens, brings in some of the most well-known expert fabricators to share ideas on a variety of topics germane to the countertop industry. Designed for everyone, from those 16 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

sponsoring the Countertop Pavilion, which is part

Hosted by Regent Stone Products in its Virginia

to expect; and manufacturing principles and

profitably. This is a valuable program that can

next day or two at IWF, where ISFA is once again

Hyatt Ziva all inclusive resort in Cancun, Mexico,

Hosted by The Countertop Shop in Toledo, Ohio,

commercial markets; what special considerations process methods to control costs and compete

learn from some of the best. Then, spend the

Transition: Generation 2

This program serves as a forum to share and

St. Louis area April 7 to 8, this seminar delivers

and more. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to

Early registration is already available for this

for generational transitions of your business.

Hosted and sponsored by Colt Industries in the

forecast, lean manufacturing in the shop setting

www.coverings.com/BCAS6.

April 28 to 29, this event is designed to prepare

Effective Commercial Business Seminar

effectively in the commercial world, an industry

www.ISFAnow.org.

Circle RS#09 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

In the Industry Francisco “Paco” MartinezCosentino Inducted into NKBA Hall of Fame

Coverings Reveals Speakers for 2016 Chicago Show Coverings trade show, being held from April 18 to 21 in Chicago, announced the lineup for its four keynote speaking sessions and eight featured sessions. The keynote sessions this year will feature Shawn McCadden of Remodel My Business Inc.; Andre Fay of the Gettys Group; Edie Cohen of Interior Design Magazine; Bart Bettings of the National Tile Contractors Association; David Gobis of TileLetter; Richard Goldberg of PROCON; and Ceramic Tile and Stone Consultant Donato Pompo. The Featured

Francisco “Paco”

Martinez-Cosentino, president of the

Cosentino Group, was the 2016

inductee into the Kitchen & Bath Industry Hall

of Fame. The honor is given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the

industry. “We honor leaders who have discovered or created a game-changing product or process that significantly advanced the kitchen and bath

industry,” said Bill Darcy, CEO of NKBA. “We owe

him our gratitude for his leadership, inspiration and for laying the foundation for what is yet to come.”

Paco Cosentino has been in the kitchen and bath industry worldwide for more than 30

years. He began his career learning every

operational detail of his father’s stone business in Spain — from the excavation process to

the production techniques and end uses. His

perseverance in growing the business and his passion for innovation and entrepreneurialism

became essential components of the success of the company, which is now a global leader

while remaining family-owned. Paco Cosentino has been recognized for pioneering quartz

surfacing with his first production of Silestone Natural Quartz in 1990. He also developed

Sensa anti-stain granite and introduced Dekton

ultra-compact surface. Paco Cosentino not only revolutionized the surfacing market through

product innovation but also through service and diversification. Over the last five years, Cosentino Group has spent more than $60

million developing its infrastructure to open more than 40 Cosentino Centers in the United States.

Sessions include such speakers as Leatrice Eisman of the Pantone Color Institute; Paul Makovsky of Metropolis; Chelsea Butler of Kitchen and Bath Business; Aileen Kwun of Dwell; Elaine Markoutsas of Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago; Nicole Leinbach Reyale of Retail Minded; Randy Fiser of the American Society of Interior Designers; Wayne Kurzen of The Kurzen Group; Julie Taraska of Architectural Record; Martin Bechtold of Harvard University; Vince Marazita of Marazita & Associates; Tommy A. Conner of Superior Tile & Stone; and Tim Fitzgerald of Construction Industry Professional.

Registration for the main show is absolutely free (go to the ISFAnow.org website to sign up).

However, to see a keynote speaker there is a minor charge because the sessions are in high demand and include either a hot breakfast or plated lunch. The Featured Sessions are free. More information is available at www.Coverings.com. being of its members and the market as a whole.

We are extremely proud that the NKBA and its members have recognized his long-standing contributions,” said Lorenzo Marquez, VP of marketing for Cosentino North America.

Colt Industries Moves Distribution from Corian and Zodiaq to Durasein and Diresco Large distributor Colt Industries held an online press conference in which it announced it will no longer be distributing DuPont Corian solid

surface or Zodiaq quartz surfacing. The company will instead offer Durasein, a 100 percent acrylic Chinese solid surface, and Diresco Quartz,

imported from Belgium. Colt covers 17 states:

Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina,

DuPont and Dow Announce Merger Deal DuPont and Dow announced they have agreed on a merger, valued at $130 billion. The new

company will be called “DowDuPont,” and it plans to split into three separate companies

within 18 months to two years after the deal

closes. DuPont has said it plans to cut 5,000

employees, assuming the deal is approved by regulators, stockholders and board members.

Sources close to the company said layoffs

have already begun. While the companies have numerous overlapping products, only DuPont has product lines in the countertop/surfacing

industry: Corian solid surface and Zodiaq quartz surfacing. These products, along with DuPont’s Tyvek product, are expected to be the focus of one of the three spin-off companies.

“Paco Cosentino has been a true inventor

Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennesee, Texas and

NBMDA Announces 2016 Board of Directors

Throughout his success, he has always

GlueBoss, SeamBoss and ClipBoss adhesives

The North American Building Material

elevating others, evidenced through his support

change was made so the company could offer

and his relentless pursuit of new product

with faster turnaround on custom color orders. It

reinvestment into the industry for the future well

similar to what it previously carried.

and supporter of the K&B industry worldwide.

Southern Illinois. Additionally, it will distribute

remained loyal to his virtue of giving to and

in place of DuPont’s. According to Colt, the

of trade organizations like the NKBA and others,

products of the same quality but at better pricing

innovation. He is a person that believes in

also stated the new materials will come in colors

18 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Distribution Association (NBMDA) announced

its board of directors for 2016. Officers include: 2016 NBMDA President Bill Sauter, OHARCO, Omaha, Neb.; President-Elect Ray Prozzillo,

A&M Supply, Pinellas Park, Fla.; Vice President

Michael Donnelly, Metro Hardwoods, Sioux Falls,

S.D.; Treasurer Wayne Moriarty, Atlantic Plywood, Woburn, Mass.; and Immediate Past President Rick Turk, Metro Hardwoods, Maple Grove, Minn. Manufacturer/Service Provider directors include: Mike Purtell, M.L. Campbell; Jim Houser, Majure Data; Tim Atkinson, Wilsonart; Matthias Bulla, Grass America; Jim Jacquemard, C.A. Technologies; and Todd Vogelsinger, Columbia Forest Products.

Distributor directors include: Missy O’Daniel, Web-Don Inc., Charlotte, N.C.; Don Lorey, E.B. Bradley, Los Angeles; Jamie Barnes, McKillican International, Edmonton, Alberta; Jon Minnaert, Aetna Plywood, Rockford, Ill.; and Bill Stokke, Holdahl Co., Plymouth, Minn.

Marble Institute and Building Stone Institute Vote to Combine for Two Years The results of a vote conducted jointly by the memberships of the Marble Institute of America (MIA) and Building Stone Institute ( BSI) approved the entrance into a joint, two-year agreement.

Under the terms of the agreement, during 2016 and 2017 the two organizations will combine operations, and operate under the name “MIA & BSI The Natural Stone Institute.” After the initial two years, members will again vote whether or not to make the agreement permanent. The MIA had 417 votes cast from a pool of 1,323 eligible members with 396 voting for the merger and 21 voting against, while the BSI had 103 votes cast out of a pool of 222 eligible voters with 102

voting for the agreement and one voting against.

The Boards and staff of the two organizations are working to combine operations immediately.

All benefits of both organizations will be shared between members.

Diresco USA Partners with Terrazzo & Marble Supply Co. for Midwest Distribution Terrazzo & Marble Supply Co. (T&M) was

named the exclusive distributor for Diresco

quartz surfacing for the Midwest by Diresco

USA, partner and master importer of Diresco Quartz Surfaces of Belgium. T&M officially

replaced Aetna Plywood as the Midwest region’s distributor. The company discussed the change with customers prior to the transition to ensure

CountertopResource.com Launches Sister Website: GreenSurfaceResource.com Although the site has been live since June of 2016 as it has been under development, the official launch of www.GreenSurfaceResource. com, a sister site to CountertopResource.com, took place in January. The site’s main focus is indepth information resources for environmentally friendly surfacing professionals and those interested in green surfacing materials and the sustainable surfacing industry. The site contains information on eco-friendly surfacing materials used for countertops, flooring, wall cladding and exterior surfacing, as well as related products. It also includes information related to fabrication and/or installation supplies, sinks, other ancillary products, and more.

that the new partnership would be well received.

According to the company, Diresco USA plans

for national expansion over the next two years.

This announcement comes on the heels of Colt Industries taking on the product for distribution instead of DuPont Zodiaq.

National Association of Home Builders Elects 2016 Leaders The National Association of Home Builders

(NAHB) recently elected its 2016 senior officers.

NAHB’s Chairman of the Board this year is Ed Brady, who has more than 25 years of

experience in the home building industry and is president of Brady Homes in Bloomington,

Ill. Granger MacDonald, a Texas-based builder

and developer with 40 years of experience, was elected first vice chairman. He is chairman and

CEO of the MacDonald Companies. Louisianabased custom home builder, Randy Noel,

Circle RS#10 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2014 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 19

In the Industry Cold Spring Awarded ANSI/NSC 373 Certification

was elected as third vice chairman of the

Early ISFA Member Dan Snider of Pierce Laminated Products Passes

of Torrington, Conn.-based T&M Building Co.

Dan Snider, a retired partner from Pierce

Dimension Stone certification. Coldspring is

who has 30+ years of experience and is the president of Reve Inc., was elected second vice chairman. Builder and developer with

more than 20 years of experience, Greg Ugalde board. He is president and chief legal officer

NAHB Chairman for 2015, Tom Woods, who

is also president of Woods Custom Homes in

Laminated Products in Rockford, Ill., and an

chairman. The NAHB’s Chief Executive Officer

away unexpectedly in December. Dan was a

Blue Springs, Mo., remains as immediate past

is Jerry Howard, from Washington, D.C. Howard leads a staff of more than 240 working out of the National Housing Center in Washington.

He has served as the association’s CEO/EVP

since February of 2001. Previously, Howard was NAHB’s chief tax counsel.

early and longtime member of ISFA, passed longtime advocate of ISFA and well known in the solid surface industry. Memorials may be directed to the family for benefit of Dan’s favorite charities.

Coldspring, a Minnesota-based quarrier and fabricator of natural stone, received ANSI/ NSC 373 Sustainable Production of Natural one of only two companies in the United States to achieve the recognition thus far. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the rigorous and voluntary standard establishes criteria to determine the degree to which natural dimension stone is extracted and manufactured sustainably. Following facility inspections by NSF International’s Sustainability division, which develops

Marble Quarry in Malaysia. An agreement was

standards and conducts audits to protect

processing business at a 29 percent stake to

headquarters and primary manufacturing

non-executive chairman of SHS Holdings,

Gold certification, while the Charcoal Quarry

reached to sell the marble quarrying and

the environment, Coldspring’s corporate

an independent third party. Chew Hoe Soon,

operations in Cold Spring, Minn., received

will buy the business for $12.5 million, or 7 Singapore cents per share.

(St. Cloud, Minn.), Mesabi Quarry (Babbitt, Minn.), and Rockville Quarry (Rockville, Minn.)

Franke Kitchen Systems North America Hires Two Managers

received Platinum certification.

Franke, a large stainless steel kitchen sink and

numerous areas of stone production, such

Systems North America by hiring two new

transportation of the stone; site and plant

regional sales manager for the Midwest region,

use; corporate governance; energy usage

The ANSI/NSC 373 standard examines

faucet manufacturer, expanded its Kitchen

as: water usage and recycling; custody and

BLANCO Wins Award for ONE Collection

managers. Tim Dallas was named luxury

management; land reclamation and adaptive

German sink and faucet manufacturer

development manager – wholesale. These

BLANCO won the Architectural Products

Product Innovation Award (PIA) for its ONE sink collection. The collection has three sinks and five accessory kits, all with the brand’s satin

polished finish. Three bowl sizes and a range of accessories allow users to customize the

sink for their individual needs. PIA Awards are

given to manufacturers of architectural related products that have displayed innovation and

leadership, and winners are chosen by a group of 35 independent industry professionals.

Tritech Group Sells Terratech Marble Business Tritech Group Ltd., a Singapore-based

investment holding company, announced it will sell its shareholding interest in its subsidiary,

Terratech Group. Terratech has exclusive rights to develop, explore, extract, quarry, remove and sell marble products at the Kelantan

20 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

and Joe Bisignano was named business

kitchen and bath industry veterans are tasked in assisting in the growth of both the luxury

and retail segments of Franke. Dallas has 17

years of experience in the retail and wholesale channels of the home improvement industry.

Bisignano has more than 16 years of sales

experience in the cabinets, countertops and plumbing wholesale industries.

Midwest Surface Supply New Midwest Distributor for Meganite Solid Surface

and conservation; management of excess process materials and waste; safer chemical and materials management; worker health and safety; and optional innovation credits.

Certification is based on point totals in each category to achieve a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level certification. ANSI/NSC 373 also includes a companion Chain of Custody (COC) program, which is important to the certification because it ensures traceability of certified stone from the quarry to processing and throughout the supply chain and ultimately to their journey’s end. “ANSI/NSC 373 is

Midwest Surface Supply has taken over the

a rigorous, science-based standard that

Surface material, for Chicagoland, Minnesota

sustainable materials. As a further sign of its

company replaces Aetna Plywood as the

as a compliance path in the 2015 International

authorized stocking distributor for Gemstone

Oorbeck, NSF International’s sustainability

exclusive distributorship of Meganite Solid

helps the building community identify more

and Indiana. Based in Madison, Wis., the

value, the Standard was recently referenced

distributor in these market areas. It is also an

Green Construction Code (IgCC),” said Jenny

Solid Surface sinks and Integra Adhesives.

general manager.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 21

New Colors & Materials Spotlight

A look at the latest trends

it suitable to be used behind cooktops. It is coated with a durable, high-gloss proprietary paint coating system that gives it the modern, contemporary look of glass. It can be cut and bent around the corners to give a smooth and continuous finish and installs quickly.

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Concrete, Graphite and Sage Honed; and veined marbles like Calacatta Aventine, Toffee and Vogue. Aventine joins the group’s offerings of Artisan Stone Collection granite and marble, Saratoga Soapstone and Heritage Wood countertops.

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

Akrilika Akrilika introduced a new line of quartz surfacing material called AQ Stone™. It has a marble-like look and vast veining flowing through each design. The series includes seven colors offering aesthetics similar to exotic marble: Formentera Dusk, Ostuni Daylight, Karon Sand, Palatino Dark, Dominion Bronze, Calacatta Gold and Calacatta Silver. The last two (Calacatta Gold and Calacatta Silver) embody the beauty of Italian marble with wide veining. These designs will add a distinctive look to any residential or commercial interior.

AQ Stone is durable, nonporous and scratch-, stain- and heat-resistant, making them suitable for any indoor application. It comes with a 15year limited warranty for both residential and commercial interiors.

Circle RS#35 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Arborite Canadian laminate manufacturer Arborite is joining the residential market with the Maison Collection. The first series in Maison to launch, Panorama, focuses on replicating the look of authentic stone in laminate. To create the Panorama Series, the Arborite design team scanned real stone slabs so that each color showcases the grand scale and elegant imperfections of its source. Designs like Arabescato Marble, Roman Travertine and Cityscape Loft display a rich, chic aesthetic in an optimally convenient material.

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AluSplash AluSplash USA offers AluSplash, an aluminiumbased backsplash and wall panel material, which is eco-friendly, durable and cost-effective, according to the company. Suitable for a range of interior decorative applications in residential, commercial and retail spaces, it is available in an array of colors. The material is a composite substrate with a fire-resistant core, making 22 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ATI Decorative Laminates ATI’s Fusion program marries graphics and imagery with an array of surfaces from Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) to metal. By combining our everexpanding line of graphics or your own artwork with our more than a dozen substrate options, you can make engaging, custom designs perfect for any space. Fusion is suitable for such applications as wall laminates, divider panels, displays and large format murals. Additionally, Lumisplash is a patent-pending, multilayered, ultra-thin 1/4-in. (6mm) decorative laminate that emits light evenly across its surface and has solid impact-, scratch-, chemical- and abrasion-resistant properties. It is a lighted laminate system with no air gap required for LEDs. This product combines art with lighting in a durable laminate, creating a unique focal point for any home or business.

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Artisan Group Artisan Group, a North American group of 35 countertop fabricators, launched its exclusive Aventine Quartz line with 23 colors. The color palette is contemporary with whites such as Luxe, Glacial and Titanium White; grays like

Avonite The Right Size Program was created by Avonite® to offer more cost efficiency per job. Sheet sizes can be customized to get wider and longer sheets of 100 percent acrylic solid surface. It allows fabricators to break away from the constraints

of the standard sizes, giving measurable time and cost savings. Every bit of scrap and waste costs money, and these custom-sized sheets can dramatically reduce or even eliminate waste, keeping tons of scrap out of landfills and saving money.

Minimum volume requirements are normally met on a mediumsized project.

Vivid White, the company’s purest shade of white; Nobel Grey, a light gray with swirls of dark gray and creamy hues; Statuario Maximus, a marble-inspired design with broad shades of gray veins sweeping across a white base; and Tuscan Dawn, a brown with vanilla strokes.

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Brilliant Surfacing Brilliant Solid Surface is introducing 10 new colors in 2016.

These colors are derived from interior designers’ requests to see more variety in shades of white, green and gray with variations in particulates.

They are heavily geared toward commercial applications to uplift and brighten up spaces.

Cambria

Cambria introduced four colors, two in the Oceanic Collection and two in the Marble Collection, bringing the total number of colors offered by the company to 128 in nine collections.

In the Oceanic line are Roxwell™ and Oakmoor™, with rolling waves and linear flow created using proprietary technologies developed by the company. In the Marble line are Brittanicca™ and Ella that feature movement and complexity.

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Cimstone

Caesarstone Caesarstone launched nine new colors as part of its Classico and Supernatural collections.

They are: Statuario Nuvo, an interpretation of Statuario marble with diffused dark veins on a white background; Symphony Grey, with streaming light and dark tones and diagonal lines and veining; Urban Safari, with a khaki tone and spanning diagonal veins; Cosmopolitan White, a whirlpool of streaming, shades with diagonal lines and veining; Taj Royal, with creamy hues and delicate veins;

Çimstone, established in Izmir, Turkey, in 1996, is a quartz surfacing with a TS EN ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System Certificate and whose hygienic composition has been certified by NSF and LGA certificates. It is produced using the Italian BRETON technology, combining the natural stone textures with the robustness of quartz. It is hygienic and may be applied to such areas as internal walls, facade, stairs, window sills, skirting and flooring.

Its lack of porosity makes it stain-proof and gives it a high resistance to the abrasive effects of acids and bases, according to the company. It is capable of using different materials such as mirror, glass, seashells colored with pigments, and has a broad color range, including marblesque looks and shades of cream, beige, mink, brown and gray.

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ConfiAd ConfiAd launched a 100 percent acrylic solid surface under the name ConfiAd® Solid Surfaces. The material is nonporous, hygienic, versatile, chemical/stain-resistant, easy to maintain/repair, flexible in design, and easily fabricated with invisible seams making it suitable for residential and commercial applications. It offers popular designs in six categories: Solid (nine colors); Lucent (five colors); Metallic (two colors); Granite (30 colors); Genesis (20 colors); and Marble (eight colors). It comes with a 10-year warranty.

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Cosentino Cosentino launched several new product advancements and colors in both Dekton Ultra Compact Surface and Silestone Quartz Surfacing. Dekton unveiled 10 colors, with four in the new XGLOSS Series, which uses a new Nanocoating Process that creates a crystalline shine and mirror-like reflectivity: Halo, with a white hue; Blaze, evocative of a gunmetal gray polished mirror; Splendor, a subtle gray; and Lumina, a taupe. In other series were Aldem, which has the appearance of gray weathered oak; Bento, a neutral with subtle graining variation; Valterra, with a maple hardwood look; Gada, with a cream-colored limestone pattern; Sarev, also limestonesque, but with dramatic veining and color variation; and mimicking a white concrete look is Blanc White. All colors are highly resistant to scratches, stains, UV rays and temperature shock, making them suitable for any surfacing application indoors or outdoors. In Silestone, three new colors were launched. Two colors incorporate Dekton and were suggested via the company’s Trendspotters program: Ink, a black base with white Dekton shards in International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 23

a geometric juxtaposition style; and Aquatint, an aqua base with white Dekton shards fit for bathroom applications. Incorporating NanoTech, a new process that improves the material’s liquid repellence, is Nuit Noire, a solid black surface with depth and high sheen.

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EOS Surfaces GEOS Recycled Glass Surfaces

by EOS Surfaces launched its 19th color with the addition of Cirrus.

Cirrus adds a true white color with cloud-like elegance to the color palette. As a resin-based recycled glass countertop, GEOS combines intelligent design, ease of fabrication, high slab yield (slab size 61 by 118 in.), and maintenance-free durability. It has a polymer resin binder that creates a smooth, nonporous surface that resists stains, scratches and heat. GEOS contains 57 to 65 percent recycled glass by volume and qualifies for 4 LEED points. GEOS also brought on new distribution partners Allegheny Plywood Company and Canadian Slab Distributors. E.B. Bradley has also expanded its distribution territory to include the Pacific Northwest.

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Formica Formica Corporation introduced 10 laminate patterns. The new colors in the Residential Collection include three new large-scale 180fx® laminates, three new standard laminates and four new Jonathan Adler Collection designs. They also include EliteForm, a new technology that improves scratch-resistance and durability according to the company. The 180fx® by Formica Group colors are Café Azul, a quartz-inspired pattern featuring gray and brown veins through a white background; Black Fusion, a stone pattern with a deep black background with gray, white and gold veining; and 24 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Oxidized Maple, a weathered yet refined reclaimed gray/brown wood look. The three colors in the standard laminate line are Neo Cloud, reminiscent of modern quartz with a white background and wispy gray vein; Weathered Cement, a softly worn cement look; and Timberworks, a pattern created by blending strips of different reclaimed wood species, grains and colors. The four laminates in the Jonathan Adler Collection are three variations of Grasscloth, modeled after grasscloth wallpaper to create a visual texture, including Natural Grasscloth, Lime Grasscloth and Slate Grasscloth.

The remaining color is Gray Josef Linen, a pattern inspired by Josef Albers featuring geometric shapes in shades of charcoal, smoke gray and white — all under a fine gray linen texture.

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Glass Recycled Glass Recycled Surfaces expanded operations into a 25,000-sq.-ft. production facility in Garland, Texas. This allows for custom-sized GlassSLAB tops up to 39 by 120 in. in 2cm and 3cm thicknesses available in 144 color options and glass mixes. GlassPLANK products can be ordered for flooring and wall applications in custom sizes and thicknesses. In addition, the company now offers both products in polished, honed and leathered finishes. Custom color and glass mixes can also be created. In the second quarter of 2016, the company will expand to offer 60- by 120-in. slabs in 2cm and 3cmthicknesses also available in polished, honed, and leathered finishes, in the full color range.

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Hanwha Hanwha has eight new colors of its state-of-theart HanStone quartz surfaces.

HanStone Quartz celebrates the natural world around us, while being on

trend and appealing for all interior aspirations.

The new colors are: Savoy, Campina, Strato, Rocky Shores, Smoke, Artisan Grey, Celestial and Silhouette. The company’s Hanex Solid Surfaces also has three new 2016 Concept Colors designed to inspire. Nonporous and stain-resistant, the three new colors have bold movement: Glaciale, Nublado and Nacimento.

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JEWELCRAFTZ JEWELCRAFTZ, a brand owned by Akriti Jewelcraftz Pvt. Ltd., caters to the niche market of high-end luxury. The Genuine Gemstone and Shell Collection offers a product in which every surface is unique and custom designed to maximize the effect achieved from natural shadings and innate patterns in gemstones and shells. The products use high-quality gemstones and shells from around the globe. As a company of fine craftsmen, each person in the organization served a long apprenticeship in his own discipline. By merging extensive experience with the latest technology, age-old technique and quality, the company provides surfacing with nature’s splendor from floor to ceiling.

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KRION KRION® Porcelanosa Solid Surface launched the Asteroid Series, with particles that scud randomly across the surface like tiny cloud puffs. They float across a background in a selection of chic, subtle colors, speckled with tiny micro-particles. This produces a nebulous effect, easy to mix and match with other materials and decorative features.

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Lapitec Lapitec , a compact sintered surface, is suitable for a multitude of applications including indoor and outdoor cladding, paving, countertops and even ventilated façades. It is characterized by its large ®

sized slabs measuring 1,500mm by 3,365mm (approximately 60 by 132 in.) with thicknesses of 1.2cm, 2cm and 3cm with a homogeneous thickness. According to the manufacturer, it is impervious to the effects of time and weather, it’s highly impact resistant and completely insensitive to UV rays and acid rain. It has improved flexural strength and is easy to clean and nonflammable.

All collections are subjected to Bio-Care technology that reportedly makes it a self-cleaning and antibacterial product thanks to the properties of titanium dioxide — a catalyst able to degrade

numerous organic compounds through oxidation.

It has seven finishes, 12 monochromatic colors and three veined options; the colors are inspired by nature, ranging from lighter shades such as Polar White, White Cream, Ivory and Cement Grey, through to Sahara, Tobacco, Red Porphyry and Ebony, and all the way up to Lead Grey, Anthracite Black and the new nuances Moca and Arctic.

The three veined options, Michelangelo, Pearl and Coral, give each surface a refined effect.

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Night. These are in addition to 66 other colors that span a wide variety of looks for any application.

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

and brown weaved throughout the new Babylon Gray, Desert Bloom, and Stellar Gray designs.

Soft shades of gray and white sparkle in the new Perla White, Stellar White, Peppercorn White and Calacatta Vicenza designs.

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Meganite Meganite worked with world-class colorists to create its Trends Collection of Meganite acrylic solid surface, a premium, highperformance product that is functional, reliable and priced for maximum value. The new colors are grounded in nature but enhanced with a kick, such as modern quartz-like designs, spacy sci-fi Milky Way looks, and neutral yet healing tones. The Trends Collection has13 colors: Snow Owl, Sandy Shore, Grey, Parapet Gray, Urban Habitat, Portland Rain, Rain Cloud, Mottled Gray, Bird Bath, Silver Shards, Olive Branch, Solar Eclipse and Starry Starry

MS International MS International, Inc. (MSI) added 11 new colors to the Q™ Premium Natural Quartz Collection, suitable for countertops, backsplashes, shower surrounds, floors and other interior projects.

New designs in Antico Cloud, Chantilly Taupe, Pacific Salt and Sandy Cove blend creams, tans, taupes and blues, delivering high style. These neutrals are offset by fresh blends of white, gray,

Mystera Mystera Solid Surface introduced the Artisan Series comprised of 22 acrylic solid surface particulate colors. These colors range from a solid white to rich blue, black and brown tones at a conservative price point. Many colors and

Circle RS#13 on the Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 26 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

patterns within the new series have proven popular among designers in both commercial and residential applications. Mystera also currently has 23 veined solid surface colors in the Fusion, Winsome and Platinum Series. The new particulate colors offer a quieter palette than the veined colors, and completes the color spectrum for project specifications. The material is hygienic, nonporous and mold- and bacteria-resistant, meeting commercial guidelines for restaurants and healthcare. All Mystera products are covered by a 10-year limited liability warranty.

company is customer service focused. The material is 100 percent acrylic, nonporous and hygienic. It is inert and flame-retardant, and has the appearance of natural stone. It is impactresistant and has a high hardness making it easy to maintain. Novanite is suitable for countertops, cladding, sinks and furniture in both commercial and residential applications.

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Quantra Novanite Novanite Solid Surface by Plastiglas provides custom colors, sizes and thickness, and the

Quantra Quartz from Pokarna is inspired by natural surfaces. The company offers more than 65 designs in seven collections, one of the newest (pictured here) is Nile.

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

QuartzSource QuartzSource introduced four new marblesque colors: Kennebec, Rowley, Galena and Bevera. Now with more than two dozen colors, QuartzSource ships containers of innovative colors of quality quartz surfacing directly to fabricators at wholesale prices, that fabricators can then private label. The containers can be subdivided into four color options and fabricators can stock as many or as few of the colors as they choose. The company also provides free color samples along with slab purchases.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 27

Samsung Samsung Surfaces introduced its Supreme Collection solid surface product inspired by nature. The collection features a subtle, directional pattern that is suitable for commercial and residential projects, reports the company. It’s available in 10 muted colors: Delphi, Cloudbank, Magnolia, Natural Bridge, Dawn, Dandelion, Pastoral, Loam, Ocean View and Presto.

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Spectrum Quartz Spectrum Quartz® offers three unique blends of whites and grays: Poise Light, a blend of pure white infused with movement in at least three shades of gray; Charisma, a warm gray with the depth and radiance of both granite and quartzite; and Balance, which is subtly infused, rendering a lighter gray that is rich yet quietly elegant.

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

Teragren Teragren’s hard and durable bamboo alternative to traditional butcher block delivers an intriguing and subtle parquet pattern of end-grain bamboo into modern kitchens. The furniture-grade endgrain butcher block is made with a formaldehydefree adhesive and is suitable for table tops as well as kitchen counters and islands. It is available unfinished or prefinished with a food-safe mineral oil/beeswax finish.

body, Pierre Bleue stands out for its high degree of definition. It uses a full body design option, created through the company’s latest technology, that integrates the same color, elements and design throughout the slab for greater aesthetic and visible even edging. Neolith is composed of 100 percent natural raw materials and is recyclable. It has near-zero porosity, making it hygienic, stain-resistant, easy to clean and impervious to chemicals. The product is also wear-, scratch- and heat-resistant, and is not affected by UV-ray exposure, making it suitable for virtually every indoor and outdoor surface, residential or commercial.

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

Vicostone Vicostone’s Collection has been updated with new marble-look colors, available now from the company’s warehouses in Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta and Houston. Venatino, the newest addition, is a combination of the company’s existing bold Borghini and elegantly subtle Statuario.

Manufactured with Italy’s Breton technology, the new colors possess the essential characteristics that belong to quartz surfacing such as integral solidity and strength, color durability and lack of porosity.

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

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

TheSize/Neolith

Walker Zanger

Neolith sintered compact surface, manufactured

by TheSize Surfaces SL, introduced Pierre Bleue, a new color in the Fusion collection. Integrating fossils and rock elements through the entire

Walker Zanger introduced two new tile and wall coverings collections. The first is the Hollywood Babylon Suite, created in collaboration with interior designer Michael Berman and inspired by 1970’s

28 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

glamour, Art Deco and Neo-Egyptian architecture that include large textural wallcoverings and small backsplash accents — that allow designers to be creative. The second was the Kaza Concrete collection, which incorporates tactile 3-D elements for bold accent walls. These new collections take inspiration from elements such as fabric, nature and sci-fi to create textural and artful innovations.

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

Wilsonart Wilsonart launched four new colors in its quartz line, 11 laminate colors and 19 solid surface colors, plus added the new Wilsonart® HD® Laminate with Antimicrobial Protection. The antimicrobial protection is built into all HD laminate to protect the surface against mold, mildew and bacteria that cause odors. Of the new laminate colors, two have a Mirage Finish: Cipollino Bianco, a largescale quartz/marble look with veining and crystal structures in neutral tones and deep accents; and Cipollino Grigio, a large-scale quartz with movement and crystal veining in a slate gray.

Two have a Textured Gloss Finish: Leche Vesta, a medium scale abstract resembling packed stone with a white background and gray and black particulates; and Mercury Vesta, a medium scale abstract resembling packed stone with a gray background and gray, taupe and black particulates.

Seven laminate colors are boomerang patterns designed with Retro Renovation’s Pam Kueber and Kate Battle. They are in the Wilsonart Virtual Design Library “Retro” category and are made to appeal to midcentury and vintage style renovation or decoration. The Wilsonart Quartz Collection’s four new colors range from large-scale veining and movement to fine, subtle patterns, including Anatolia, a tea rose marble design with mother-ofpearl features, pink veining and white highlights; King’s Crown, a cream with smoky black veining and hints of garnet; Isselburg, a light taupe and white crystalline structure; and Grey Lake, a dark gray solid. The 19 new solid surface designs range from small to large particulates and include varieties of veining and movement that combines an assortment of neutrals and pops of color. Gray, white and beige colors are prevalent.

Circle RS#66 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

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International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 29

Industry

Outlook

A forecast for the countertops industry for 2016 and beyond

By Kevin Cole, Editor Forecasting, regardless of the industry, is never a

Board have 2016 GDP pegged at a growth rate

interlocking parts that affect each other and are

global, business membership and research

simple task. Our economy has many complex

difficult to align or predict. The general economy is subject to change based on a variety of

factors that can then change the outlook of the

from 2 to 2.7 percent. The Conference Board, a association, has 2016 GPD averaging above 2.3 percent. And the Wall Street Journal’s (WSJ) Economic Forecasting Survey released in

various market segments. However, examining

February, which compiles 60 economists’ opinions,

segment allows for the development of a

According to this same WSJ survey, the drops in

particular factors that most affect the countertop relatively solid estimation of how that segment will fair in 2016 and beyond.

has 2016 GDP growing an average of 2.3 percent. the unemployment rate (last year from 5.6 to 5

percent) will continue into 2016 but at a slower

If one were to just “ask around,” certainly the

pace, finally breaking the 5 percent mark (which

for the countertop industry in most cases.

ending the year at 4.7 percent. The Fed

available data must be performed and the

the labor market along with increased consumer

beginning with the general economy and

weaker global economy.

word on the street is that things are going well

traditionally represents full employment) and

However, to get a true estimation, a study of the

concurred, predicting continued improvement in

opinions of the experts must be factored in,

spending will fuel growth, even in the face of a

factoring down through related markets to the

In the words of the latest Construction Outlook

most specific information. Doing so will validate confidence that 2016 will be another solid year

for the countertop industry. Of course, conditions are subject to local and regional factors that are

difficult to take into account when looking at the broad view, as is found here, so there will obviously be some variance.

The General Economy Looking at 2015, there were peaks and valleys, but overall it continued in the correct direction economically. According to Congressional

Budget Office (CBO) statistics, the average

increase in GDP in 2015 was about 2 percent.

The harsh winter going into 2015 initially stifled

growth (0.6 percent in Q1 2015), but there was a strong bounce-back in Q2 with a GDP growth

rate of 3.9, before leveling off in Q3 at 2 percent.

Experts believe the GDP will continue to grow in

2016, with the CBO predicting an average rate of more than 2.7 percent. Likewise, the latest

economic projections of the Federal Reserve 30 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

by FMI, a construction industry consulting and

investment banking services company, “Federal Reserve Board Chair Janet Yellen announced that the Fed would raise the funds rate from

near zero to 0.25 to 0.50 percent after seven years of low, recession-fighting rates … the long-expected move is a strong signal of

confidence in the U.S. economy to continue to create jobs and improve wages.”

Housing The decorative surfacing industry is closely tied to the housing market, and it showed strong growth once again in 2015.

While still below peak levels in 2006 during the housing bubble, in 2014 housing starts finally

broke 1 million again. And 2015 saw growth of

more than 10 percent, finishing at an estimated 1,111,200 (see Figure 1). While single-family homes are still less than half the level of the

housing peak, multifamily dwellings are now more than 15 percent above 2006 levels. And once

Figure 1 again, by far, the strongest residential building trends are in the South. The National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Housing and Interest Rate Forecast updated at the end of January predicts housing starts will rise more than 10 percent again this year ending at 1.25 million and at 1.52 million in 2017.

Once again looking at the WSJ’s economist survey, the numbers jibe, with the prediction of new home starts at 1.27 million in 2016. And going one step further, it predicts home prices will increase by 4.5 percent on average. While this is a slightly slower rate than 2015, it is still a very positive sign. Figures presented by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) also predict a similar increase in housing starts. Plus NAR numbers showed existing home sales up more than 6 percent in 2015 and predicts continued increases in 2016, albeit by less than 2 percent overall.

All in all, the indicators show that housing has significantly stabilized, and subsequent predictions point to continued growth, which should contribute to the well-being of the surfacing industry.

Nonresidential Construction When it comes to nonresidential construction, the outlook also seems positive. FMI predicted in its Construction Outlook Report that the five major nonresidential construction segments historically tied to surfacing (lodging, office, commercial,

Figure 2 healthcare and educational) will all see increases in 2016 (see Figure 2). FMI expects to see the

largest increase by far, 16.6 percent, in the lodging sector, followed by the office, commercial and

educational sectors at 8.8 percent, 8.4 percent

Figure 3

and 5.1 percent. Bringing up the rear will be

healthcare building with a predicted increase of 4.9 percent.

Points of insight in the FMI report include: ■■ Four out of the five categories (all but

healthcare) have grown for five straight years.

■■ Lodging growth will continue to be at upscale properties, with green building more common in remodels.

■■ Office construction experienced an estimated 19 percent growth spurt from 2014 to 2015

credited to an increase in employment, especially high-tech jobs.

■■ With commercial, the fastest-growing areas

are drinking/food service places. Internet sales

are negatively affecting the retail sales portion of the sector.

■■ With the future of the Affordable Care Act potentially in jeopardy, uncertainty will keep

healthcare sluggish, largely relegating work to

He said that even with the unexpected increase levels, 2016 would likely continue with strong growth levels: more than 8 percent overall with 10 percent growth on the commercial/industrial side and 7 percent for institutional facilities. This growth is expected to continue into 2017 at slightly more modest levels. However, he warned, “With four years of nominal gains in nonresidential building activity in hand and two more years of

released its final 2015 numbers in February, based on its Interior Design Billings Index, and

concluded “2015 was a solid year.” Looking

forward at the first six months of 2016, it expects strong business conditions.

“All indicators signal that the demand for design

industry services should maintain momentum into 2016 as economic and labor markets continue to advance,” said Jack Kleinhenz, ASID economist.

healthy growth expected, the prospects of the

“Nevertheless, construction spending will continue to show fits and starts, and some backpedaling is

beginning of a modest down cycle in 2018 or 2019 are increasing.”

probable to show up in the cards.”

Remodeling/Home Improvement

In the most recent update of the Home

The 2015 remodeling/home improvement sector of the U.S. economy is also indicating continued growth, according to experts, but just how much depends on the source of the prediction.

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)

Improvement Research Institute’s IHS Global

Insight/HIRI Home Improvement Products Market Forecast, the 2015 home improvement market

was expected to finish up 4.4 percent over 2014 with a total overall size of $318 billion. HIRI is

predicting these gains will continue at the same

renovation/additions and outpatient care for the near future.

■■ Greater attention in education will be put on green building technologies. However,

significantly less funding combined with an

increased enrollment in primary education by 2.5 million over the next four years will mean more renovations/additions instead of new schools.

The Consensus Construction Forecast from the

American Institute of Architects (AIA), an average of forecasts from seven major building market

institutions, also predicts nonresidential growth.

“For the first year in recent memory, in 2015 the nonresidential construction sector actually

exceeded expectations,” stated Kermit Baker,

AIA chief economist. “The industry easily blew by [our predictions], effectively doubling the pace of growth expected by the experts. Through

November 2015, building construction spending was up over 16 percent compared to the first 11 months of 2014, with commercial/industrial

spending up 26 percent, and institutional activity up 8 percent.”

Figure 4 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 31

Figure 5

pace, up another 4.4 percent per year from 2016

Sales, as reported in the Kitchen Cabinet

389-page study was issued in August 2015 that

somewhat sluggish GDP growth in 2015 was

Trend of Business Survey, dropped from an

marketplace (see Figure 6).

through 2019 (see Figure 3). The report says the unrelated to the home improvement market, but rather the energy sector and a trade imbalance.

“The consumer spending outlook remains

relatively bright, supported by solid gains in

employment and real disposable income,” stated

the report. “We expect real consumer spending to improve [to] 3.1 percent in 2016.”

The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University is a bit more optimistic as to growth.

The Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) released by the center’s Remodeling

Futures program along with the organization’s January report (see Figure 4) projects annual growth in home improvement spending will

accelerate from 4.3 percent in Q1 2016 to 7.6

percent by Q3. “2016 is looking to be a stronger year for home renovation activity compared to 2015 thanks to the continued recovery in the owner-occupied housing market,” said Chris

Herbert, managing director of the center. “In most markets across the country, rising house prices are bringing more homes to the market and

increasing sales, which is a large driver of home improvement activity.”

offers predictions and insights into the

Manufacturers Association’s (KCMA) monthly increase of 9.2 percent in 2014 to 8.5 percent in

2015; however, actual sales hit numbers not seen

since 2008 (see Figure 5). Considering more than two-thirds of the kitchen cabinet market

material suppliers to the U.S. countertop market Panolam, DuPont and Cosentino, and asserts

reliable gauge of where the segment stands.

these five companies account for 41 percent of all

While lower-end stock cabinets actually rose 1.8 percent in 2015, semi-custom cabinet sales

growth slid by almost 3 percent. However, sales in custom cabinets (which accounts for the higher end of the market) pretty much held its own,

countertop material used in the United States.

According to the report, U.S. demand for

countertops is forecast to increase 4.2 percent

per year to 810 million square feet in 2019, valued at about $29.3 billion. This is a marked

falling only 0.7 percent.

improvement jumping up from an estimated 2.3 percent growth rate between 2009 and 2014,

Looking back at the virtual free-fall the kitchen

according to the report. “Growth will be propelled

cabinet segment took in the last decade, these

by a rebound in new building construction activity

numbers still look solid, and the close alliance

as well as increased spending on improvement

between the cabinet and countertop markets

makes this is a pretty positive sign for those in the countertop industry.

and repair of existing structures,” stated the

report. “Value gains will also receive a boost due to a shift in the product mix from laminates to

A Direct Look at Countertops

higher priced alternative materials.”

While all of the previous factors influence the

While laminate countertops will maintain the

countertop industry, and all of them point to a

largest square foot share of the market, the

decent year ahead, two research companies

recently published studies that offer their specific

“The remodeling market has steadily improved in

countertop numbers. The first is The Freedonia

larger, more discretionary projects into their home

“Countertops” study. An updated version of the

recent years with homeowners incorporating

the way out to 2024. It also pegs the largest five (in terms of square feet) as Wilsonart, Formica,

participates in the survey, the numbers are a

Group, which periodically publishes its

The study makes market predictions ranging all of

Freedonia report predicts that share will continue to decline. However, the negative growth

estimated by the report between 2009 and 2014 will bounce back significantly with an expected 3.4 percent growth annually through 2019.

improvement priorities,” said Abbe Will, a

research analyst with the organization. “The real test this year will be whether the industry can

clear ongoing bottlenecks in labor availability and consumer financing concerns to fully meet this increased demand.”

Kitchen Cabinetry Kitchen Cabinetry sales numbers are another

predictor for the countertop industry, and the news here remains positive. Gains across the board at a slightly more moderate pace were reported again

in 2015, the fourth consecutive year after crippling negative growth from 2005 to 2011.

Figure 6 32 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Circle RS#16 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

“Laminates will maintain a significant share of the

dollars earned by

of sales through 2019,” stated the report. “These

This makes it difficult to

countertop market and account for over one-third materials remain popular … due to their favorable performance characteristics at reasonable price points. Product developments providing a more stone-like appearance, such as high-definition

graphics and complex edges, will also help to limit the decline in market share.”

Natural stone, according to the report, will

continue to see large gains going forward because of the dropping price point and low-cost imports.

However, square footage will grow slightly less, dropping from 5.9 to 5.3 percent for the next

several years. “While the continued mainstreaming of the material bodes well for overall granite

countertop sales, it also suggests that high-end

homes, as well as businesses, are in the process of moving on to other, less commonly used surfaces,” stated the report. “As a result,

engineered stone, natural stones other than

granite, and niche materials such as various metals, concrete and recycled materials will

benefit as high-end homeowners and business owners seek novel, higher value materials to distinguish their countertops.”

The report continues to show and predict solid

manufacturers (see Figure 7). directly compare the numbers released by the two reports.

While this second report

focuses much more on stone

and engineered stone, it does offer its calculations for

laminate, solid surface and

“other materials.” In terms of

dollars, it asserts stone (largely granite) dominated the U.S.

market in 2015 accounting for more than 43 percent of the dollars spent. It names

laminate the second-place

material with about 18 percent and puts engineered stone in the third position just slightly behind with more than 16

percent. In contrast to the

Freedonia report, it relegates solid

surface to last place (10.3 percent market share)

behind “other materials,” which it pegs at having 12.4 percent of the market in terms of manufacturer dollars.

surface will hold its place as the third most popular

“Engineered stone countertop sales rose 27.2

see an increase in demand from 3.1 to 4.3 percent

rising to an estimated $906 million,” stated the

countertop surface in terms of square feet and will going forward. In the fourth spot engineered stone

is predicted to see the best growth, at 5.8 percent, but this is a significant drop in the 8.9 percent rate of annual growth the report attributes to 2009

through 2014. Of note is that during that period,

the material increased in demand by more than 50 percent overall.

The generic “cast polymers” category holds the

percent annually over the 2012 to 2015 period report. This increase is being led by foreignsourced products, according to the study.

“Imports of quartz slabs used for countertops

could climb to $585 million in 2015 or some 65 percent of total engineered stone countertop

sales,” stated the Catalina research. “This is up

from $144 million in 2007 or 26.2 percent of total

sales in 2007. Foreign-sourced engineered stone

Figure 7 information available, barring any overall

economic disasters, it looks like the countertop industry is poised for another year of growth.

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

The author would like to thank the federal government for a variety of statistical information, as well as acknowledge the following sources used in the creation of this article: The American Institute of Architects (AIA), www.aia.org, a professional membership association for architects The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), www.asid. org, a community of designers, industry representatives, educators and students committed to interior design Catalina Research, www.CatalinaReports.com, a firm that recently released its “2015 Natural and Manufactured Stone Product Industry Report” available for purchase through Ceramic Tile And Stone Consultants at https://ctasc.com/ product-category/stone-reports/

countertops are primarily shipped from

The Conference Board, www.conference-board.org, a global, independent business membership and research association

It also asserts that while Chinese quartz surfacing

FMI, www.fminet.com, a consulting and investment banking services company for the construction industry

is increasing from manufacturers in Vietnam, India,

The Freedonia Group, a research firm that recently released a “Countertops” study available for purchase at www. freedoniagroup.com

Lastly, Freedonia also predicts very significant

Another assertion worth noting in the Catalina

The Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI), www.hiri. org, a membership-based, nonprofit organization of home improvement industry companies

percent per year through 2019. Typically metals,

have accounted for 43.2 percent of total

The Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS), www.jchs. harvard.edu, Harvard University’s center for information and research on U.S housing

fifth spot and demand is expected to increase

from 2.3 to 3.6 percent. Tile holds the sixth most

popular position in terms of square feet according to the report, which also unexpectedly asserts tile as a countertop material will actually increase more over the next several years.

increases in “other materials” to the tune of 10.1 recycled materials and concrete tend to fall into

this “others” category, but it is unclear if the newer sintered compact surfaces fits in this or the “cast polymer” category, and what role they will play.

The second useful study specific to countertops

manufacturers located in China, Spain and Israel.” is the most competitively priced, that competition Portugal, Turkey and Germany.

report is, “In 2015, home centers are estimated to cabinetwork and countertop retail sales. This is up from 38 percent in 2002. However, sales through

the custom dealer-manufacturer channel led gains over the recovery as homeowners went for more

upscale kitchen and bathroom remodeling jobs.”

released in December of 2015 by Catalina

While the data paints interesting, and perhaps

Stone Product Industry Report.” This 238-page

when viewed as a whole from the broadest

Research is titled “2015 Natural and Manufactured report calculates countertop demand in terms of 34 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

somewhat conflicting, pictures of the market,

segments of the economy to the most specific

The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA), www.kcma.org, a nonprofit representing cabinet and decorative laminate manufacturers The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), www. nahb.org, representing more than 140,000 members that construct about 80 percent of the new U.S homes The National Association of Realtors (NAR), www.realtor.org, representing more than 1.1 million members composed of residential and commercial realtors The Wall Street Journal, www.wsj.com, a business-focused international newspaper

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subscription or fax the bottom of this form to ISFA at (412) 487-3269, or by mail: 2400 Wildwood Dr. Gibsonia, PA 15044 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 35

FABRI C ATOR P R O F I L E :

Premier Countertops

Premier Countertops was founded around

the year 2000; however, owner Mory Ludwick has been in some corner of the construction

industry since 1976, when he worked largely in the house framing business. Then that led

Finding success via diversification and positivity

to the cabinetry and remodeling industry and

By Kevin Cole, Editor

surface, Premier Countertops was born, when

eventually to laminate and later solid surface

countertops. After some successes with solid Ludwick rented the bay of a building that had about 1,200 sq. ft. of shop space and office space in the front half.

Carefully watching the numbers and performing all of the work by hand allowed for a nice profit and an eventual move to more automated

methods. Around 2004 the company purchased an AXYZ CNC router and the Phototop digital templating system. This allowed Premier to

make both templating and fabrication faster and easier right at a time when the housing bubble was keeping everyone busy. The

builder’s spigot was running, and Ludwick had many connections in that realm, and this lead to the company taking on two of the largest With the continuing expansion and growth Premier Countertops has experienced over the years, it became critical to move to more automated means of handling the workload, such as using CNC equipment.

36 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

builders in Omaha.

However, Ludwick wasn’t satisfied with

being so leveraged in just a single market,

primarily with a single product — solid surface

Although much of fabrication work is done via automated equipment, everything is still hand-finished to some degree to make sure the quality level remains high. countertops (along with casework) — and so he put his creative thought and relationship building to work and struck up deals with numerous outlets.

Market and Marketing Diversity The company interacted with a variety of market segments, selling direct to

homeowners, doing some commercial work, working with kitchen & bath centers and

developing relationships with area remodelers.

However, builder business, at that time, remained its main outlet.

One way the company made its successful

foray into other areas was to educate potential

his business went to market allowed him to not only weather the economic storm, but to also expand. Before then, his operations

partners about solid surface and its properties.

had already outgrown his shop, and the drop

remodelers and explain what the material was

surfacing on the scene drove him to explore

The next step was to take over the templating and installation. Because the company was already preparing templates digitally, it was easy to provide electronic templates to its fabricating partner. For the installation, a

Ludwick would visit k&b dealers and

in granite prices and the arrival of quartz

and how it could be used to meet the demands

expanding his shop and his product offerings.

handling equipment and some trial and error

Shop and Product Expansion

install in-house. This provided thicker margins

of specific designs.

Later, this education process grew into a series of “lunch-n-learn” meetings, in which the A&D community and other specifiers would come

to the show for a day of instruction, education and lunch. Some of the events even offered continuing education units (CEUs) for those

In 2005, because of pressure by his builder market, Ludwick began offering these hard

After doing careful research, Ludwick

and shiny products along with solid surface.

However, in the beginning the company purely

Unlike many other fabricators that relied

neighboring city to avoid sending work to his

looked at every channel, including building

relationships with real estate agents, flooring

companies and advertising. Premier even hired three full-time designers to handle complete

and lead to even further exploration of fullfledged stone/quartz fabrication.

requiring ongoing learning credits.

was never enough for Premier, and so they

opened the door for the company to bring the

clients for him to enter the granite and quartz

subcontracted out all of this work. Premier

mostly on repeat business and referrals, that

relatively small investment in heavy material

partnered with a stone/quartz fabricator in a direct competition, but found that the time spent with the customer outweighed the small pass-through markup it received. So, the company began to explore the idea of bringing it in-house.

determined in 2006 that he could afford to

expand into a larger building and include the expanded product offering as a product that

would be fabricated by his staff. However, that

meant finding additional staff with the expertise

to fabricate both stone and quartz. After finding a suitable location for the facility to expand into and tracking down some experts to lead and train his staff, in December of 2006, Ludwick made the move to a newer facility.

remodels, from the ground up. They will assist customers in selecting all aspects of their

new kitchens, even with products not directly carried by Premier, such as appliances. This urge to diversify and grow eventually led to

the company’s current strategy of expansion, which is largely Internet-based marketing.

By 2006, when the building boom first began its decline, Premier Countertops was still heavily leveraged in that market, but the

steps Ludwick had taken to diversify the way Premier offers just about any surface type or brand a customer could want, along with sinks, faucets, cabinets, flooring and more. This product diversity is one of the company’s main keys to success.

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 37

He was now employing 15 full-time staff, and

explained Ludwick. “We also do a little bit

kitchen & bath outlets, direct sales, builder

fabrication or semiautomatic equipment (such

it because the profit margins aren’t there.”

bank repossessions and other connections

800 slabs/sheets of material each month, half

decided to take on small commercial projects

semiautomated systems just won’t cut it. Since

seven Lowe’s stores).

most of the stone work was done using hand

as the Park Industries Wizard Deluxe radial-arm workstation and a Sierra bridge saw). The new location, which was in the heart of downtown

Omaha, was 15,000 sq. ft. and includes 5,000 sq. ft. for showrooms and office space.

Once the bugs were worked out of the

fabrication side of the operation, Premier set about building relationships with stone and

quartz suppliers. Before long, granite was a significant part of its operation and quartz orders were also growing. Granite soon

dominated the company’s sales, pushing solid surface to the back seat. However, this was

just the beginning, and the countertop shop

has come a long way since. Eventually, quartz

fabrication overtook the granite business (which remains a quarter of the company’s output), but solid surface is still about an eighth of the work

the shop does. Additionally, Premier handles tile products, which continue to remain popular for backsplashes.

of laminate, but we have backed away from Currently, the company goes through about

established by Ludwick, the company also

of which is quartz surfacing, and that means

as well as 16 box stores (nine Home Depots and

2007, the company has moved to much more

“Plus we offer Cosentino’s green product Eco

automated machinery.

granite and quartz material except Cambria,”

[that has recycled shells, porcelain and other

“We got rid of nearly all of the original stone

recycled materials in an eco-friendly resin

a Northwood waterjet/saw, two Northwood

do quite a bit of it. We have a lot of people that

equipment to improve our output. We now have

binder]. It is kind of a high-end product but we

CNCs we use for profiling and a Marmo

want green products, and we chose to offer

Meccanica edge polisher that we mostly use for backsplashes,” he explained. “However, we still hand-finish just about every piece to make sure all the edges are good. We only want to put out quality work; we don’t try to skimp.”

A Company That Just Won’t Quit After the two expansions, the company

continued to look for new ways to market and

new products, and the work continued to flow through the doors. Premier Countertops now

“Right now we work with every solid surface,

business, remodelers, real estate referrals,

covers a 250-mile radius and is leveraged in even more markets. In addition to the

Eco because it is really a fabricating friendly product.”

Having a green product draws in business, but to Ludwick it is more about staying diversified

and giving the customers what they want, and right now that is quartz, to the tune of half of

his business. “We are also a certified Dekton

fabricator,” said Ludwick about his company’s

further diversification. “When we first took it on, there was a learning curve to the fabrication.

With Dekton, all of the machinery has to be run slower, at about half speed, to avoid chipping or the product blowing up on you, but the

Circle RS#17 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2013 38 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

margins are pretty good to make up for it. Since

flooring directly from China,” he explained.

actually sent some people to our shop to show

customers (particularly builders) wanted to get

we perfected our processes, Cosentino has them how we do it. We can do edges faster

than anyone. We do mostly flat edges, and we actually sand our edges with sandpaper and

get the same finish on the edge as we get on the deck.

“It’s a great product, but you still have to

educate the customers about how to avoid

damaging it, because if a consumer chips it, like around the edge of a sink cutout, like by

hitting it with a heavy pan, there’s no fixing it,”

he added. “It’s important to be diversified in all aspects of your business. People are always looking for something new.”

With all of the product choices Premier offers and all of the methods of getting to market, you’d think Ludwick would be satisfied,

but he’s already on to more. In the past few

years, the company has added its own line of cabinetry and hardwood flooring — so much so, the company had to purchase a second,

100,000-sq.-ft. building to handle the additional business.

“We import quality cabinets and hardwood

“It was a natural progression for us. Our

their cabinetry through someone they trusted, and we were already doing tile flooring, so it

just made sense. We can pretty much offer a package deal.”

After partnering with a couple of factories in

around the country via the Web. Plus it began

selling on Amazon.com, eBay and Overstock.com.

For those customers buying in Omaha, the

company offers installation for both the flooring and the cabinetry, but otherwise, it picks

wraps and ships out standard vanities, kitchen cabinets and pallets of flooring materials all

around the country. “We probably ship 30 to 40

China, the material is shipped into Omaha and

packages out of the warehouse a day,” said

“It is all tested right here in the United States to

now comes through the Web. We sell a lot of

know it’s all legit,” added Ludwick.

on weight and shipping costs, which we include

inventoried at the second warehouse location.

Ludwick. “About 90 percent of our business

meet U.S. safety and quality standards, so we

vanities. They are all 2cm Silestone to cut down

Providing It How People Want It After the great success with Internet-

based marketing of the core business via

PremierCountertops.com, the decision was

made to expand into more online business. The company had JadenCabinets.com created to

showcase its cabinetry locally as well. However, why stop there? Soon Premier had its own Web design and search engine optimization (SEO)

in our prices. We probably sell more vanities in California than we do in Nebraska, and we are

getting orders for somewhere around $20,000 a day in cabinetry.”

And all of this is in addition to the 15 to 20 kitchens a day that are coming out of his

countertop shop. Plus, the company is working on a template-by-mail program and importing its own line of quartz surfacing.

team, and had launched two national

When asked if managing all of the different

Jwickflooring.com — to provide cabinetry,

locations and sales methods was tricky,

websites — EverydayCabinets.com and

hardwood flooring and quartz vanities to anyone

aspects of the different products and

surprisingly Ludwick said, “Everything about

Circle RS#18 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Members since 2005 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 39

In addition to a 20,000-ft. fabrication shop and showroom facility, Premier has recently purchased a warehouse and is stocking its own line of imported Asian cabinetry and hardwood flooring, which it sells both locally and around the country via Internet.

One of the company’s secrets to success is hiring the right people that it can count on, including the entire Ludwick family (from left to right), Drew, Jason, Lori, Mory and Adam Ludwick.

the diversification is a bonus, but we are

them. Plus, I’m the only Dad around that gets to

tumor was discovered on a muscle wall. Mory

so we can breathe.” Which begs the question,

morning, Dad’ every day.”

about six months to live, but he didn’t give

sometimes happy when it slows down a little how does a company go about managing all of that?

Three Main Secrets for Success While anyone who knows Ludwick knows he has the gift of gab and a knack for sales, but beyond hard work, he credits his company’s

ability to successfully manage all of the various product offerings through all the different

channels to three main things: a strong, reliable

staff, a solid software management system and a positive attitude.

When it comes to staff, not including Mory,

Premier employs 50 people, four of which are his direct family, to whom he gives plenty of

credit. His wife Lori handles all of the accounts

payable and receivable, payroll and the financial side of the business, and to great effect from

Mory’s attestations. And his three sons are also heavily involved in his operations (and were

largely behind the research and development of the Chinese cabinetry and flooring portion of the business). His eldest, Jason (age 37),

see his kids and hear them say, ‘See ya in the

Beyond his family, he has 16 fabricators working two shifts in the fabrication shop, two hardwood flooring installers, and 12 tile installers, with

the remainder being salespeople, warehouse workers, templaters, installers, his Web team

and logistics personnel. Interesting is that one of his main logistics people actually works

remotely from Texas via his second secret, his software management system. The system,

“Having my family involved is a big positive,”

said Mory. “I have a great wife and wonderful

sons, and my staff have nothing but respect for 40 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

chemotherapy for months. “Some days I just

came into the office, closed my door and slept on my couch,” he said. “And my boys pretty

much ran the company. They all believed in my

dream. Even the bank gave us slack in reporting our financials”

her husband who landed a job there because it

doctors, and the relief of his family and friends,

outlook, and much to the disbelief of his

can be operated remotely.

Mory beat the cancer and still runs the company

“One of our greatest tools that allows us to

get so much done is Morware,” expounded

Ludwick. “We run everything through it from

scheduling to tracking our inventory.” By taking a proactive approach, tracking everything that can be tracked and paying attention to the

details, allows Premier, even with so many irons in the fire, to complete most installations within 15 days of templating.

is demonstrable when Ludwick is asked about

warehouse.

bowels removed, and go through aggressive

But, even then, he had hope and a positive

the production at the countertop shop. Finally and receiving of cabinets and flooring at the

his gall bladder, appendix and a portion of his

scheduler even when she moved to Texas with

The last secret to the company’s success is the

his youngest, Drew (age 29), runs all shipping

up. He had to have part of his liver, along with

which is Moraware, allowed him to keep his

is in charge of all the cabinet business, while

his middle son Adam (age 32) manages all of

was told the cancer had spread and he had

ability to stay positive, no matter the odds. This

to this day, two years later. And when asked if

he thought retirement was in his near future, he replied, “We are still in the building stage with

our national program, and we haven’t paid off our buildings yet. Maybe I will think about it

once we get that done. Or maybe I will just keep working here ‘til the end.”

In the end, Ludwick and his staff know it is all

about giving the customer what they want, how they want it and with a positive attitude. And

that’s just what Premier Countertops does, to the benefit of the company and its clients.

his competition and replies, “We don’t worry

About the author

But even greater is the proof of the positive

attitude Ludwick displayed when faced with

For more information contact Mory Ludwick at Premier Countertops, 8720 L St., Omaha, NE 68127, (402) 991-7258, www.premiercountertops.com.

after visiting a doctor for a pain in his side, a

Editor & Publisher Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfanow.org or at (815) 721-1507.

about the competition; we just sell ourselves.”

personal adversity. A couple of years ago,

Circle RS#19 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

OSHA Fines Increase

Workplace Safety Violation Fines Rise for First Time in 25 Years

By Shannon DeCamp A provision in the budget bill signed by President Obama in November raised federal U.S.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA) fines for workplace safety violations for

the first time in more than a quarter of a century.

The bill requires OSHA to issue a one-time

“Catch-up Adjustment” to bring penalties in line

all states regulated by Federal OSHA. The law does not automatically apply to states regulated

by State Plans, but since State Plan programs must be at least as effective as Federal OSHA,

However, the initial “catch-up adjustment”

could be much more than the expected 80

percent because the Act sets the “maximum adjustment” at 150 percent of the current

State Plans are expected to increase civil

penalty structure.

penalties as well.

Reactions to the increase have been mixed.

Some industry representatives oppose OSHA

with inflation increases since 1990. Additionally,

Assuming an 80 percent increase, the maximum monetary penalties for OSHA violations will be:

efforts as they believe that increased fines

adjustments going forward in order to have fines

Other than serious — $12,600 (increased from

particularly smaller operations. Other experts

the budget bill requires OSHA to make annual keep pace with inflation.

OSHA has not yet announced the exact “catchup” increase; it is believed that it will reflect the approximate 80 percent increase in inflation

from 1990 to present. The increased penalties will take effect no later than August 1, 2016, in

$7,000);

42 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

argue that boosting fines for OSHA still

Serious — $12,600 (increased from $7,000); Repeat — $126,000 (increased from $70,000); and,

Willful — $126,000 (increased from $70,000).

Circle RS#20 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

will have a serious impact on businesses —

keeps them extremely low compared to other agencies, like the EPA, which imposes such

maximum penalties of $270,000 for violating the Clean Air Act. The Department of Labor website cites the following example demonstrating

Circle RS#21 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

the inadequacy of OSH Act penalties: When a tank full of sulfuric acid exploded, the company responsible received a penalty for polluting that was almost 60 times greater than the OSH Act

Michaels also said that “unscrupulous

employers often consider it more cost-effective to pay the minimal OSHA penalty and continue

to operate an unsafe workplace than to correct

penalty for the death of a worker that resulted

the underlying health and safety problem.”

from the same incident.

Whether you agree or disagree, this change

Monetary penalties are an important part of the enforcement process, and penalties for violations of the OSH Act are widely regarded as too low to create an effective or credible deterrent to noncompliance. Employers who play by the rules may be at a competitive disadvantage. “The most serious obstacle to effective OSHA enforcement of the law is the very low level of civil penalties allowed under our law, as well as weak criminal sanctions,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Dr. David

About the Author

Employers would be well advised to:

Shannon DeCamp is Client Services Manager for TechneTrain, Inc. For further information regarding OSHA compliance requirements for the surface fabricating industry, visit www.technetrainonline. com, or contact TechneTrain, Inc. at (800) 852-8314.

TechneTrain has a full line of easy-to-understand reference materials and turnkey employee training programs with detailed information on OSHA Compliance requirements specifically designed for the surface fabrication industry. These products are offered through ISFA at discounted prices.

for a potentially costly encounter with OSHA. • Know what regulations apply to their business • Assess their workplace for hazards and address them as quickly as possible

• Talk with employees about their safety

concerns and address them as quickly as possible

• Ensure that their safety programs are comprehensive and up to date

7, 2015. “OSHA penalties must be increased

• Ensure that employees receive all necessary

accepting injuries and worker deaths as a cost of doing business.”

Taking these steps will demonstrate your commitment to safety and help ensure that higher OSHA fines are someone else’s problem!

is coming! Employers should be prepared

Michaels to a House subcommittee on October to provide a real disincentive for employers

• Instill employee safety as a core company value

safety training, can demonstrate that they

understood the training and that all training is well documented

Circle RS#22 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2004 International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 43

Here.Now.News.

Lynn West Joins ISFA Staff as Membership Coordinator ISFA hired Lynn West to serve as Membership Coordinator, replacing Amy Kyriazis who has

been moved laterally to the position of Program Coordinator. West has been a resident of

Pittsburgh, where ISFA office is headquartered, for two and a half years, after relocating from Barrington, Ill. She has 10 years’

experience in marketing communications for the nondestructive testing industry and with

electrical engineering and large motor repair services. She also previously worked as an office manager for Corplex Television for

two years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in

business administration from the University of Illinois and is married with two children. While her hobbies include school volunteer work,

reading, hiking and biking, she hopes to bring her client-building, marketing and office management experience to the Membership Coordinator role and looks forward to supporting the

organization’s goals. “Lynn is highly qualified to serve the membership and we are glad to have her on the staff,” said Interim Executive Director Mike Langenderfer. “I am confident she will be beneficial to our members and overall operations.”

Strong Countertop Programming Developing for IWF The partnership between ISFA and the

Director Kevin

been renewed for the 2016 show this August.

Interim ISFA

the focus on the countertop industry for the

Countertop Shop.

International Woodworking Fair (IWF) has

It was established to continue to increase

show, and continues to gain momentum as the programming for the expo develops. A full-day Countertop Symposium will once

again take place the day before the show floor opens. It will tentatively feature such topics as diversification, a look at new materials,

establishing more business in the commercial sector of the industry, lean manufacturing in

the countertop shop, integration of casework and countertops, and the annual ISFA countertop industry forecast.

Tentative speakers at the show include our Dave Paxton, of Paxton Countertops and

Showers; Russ Berry, of renown commercial fabrication business A.S.S.T.; Industry

Consultant Keith Haight; ISFA Communications

Cole; and current Executive Director Mike Langenderfer, of The Additionally, the 2016 show will once again feature a “Countertop Pavilion” that works

to group together various companies serving the industry into one area of the show floor.

Additionally, ISFA will have a booth at the show where those interested can talk to the staff,

other members or board members, and find

out what programming is taking place and how ISFA can help your company to become better and more profitable at what you do.

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 will receive a discount on booth space.

IWF 2016 will be held Aug. 24 to 27, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Those interested in participating can contact either ISFA (412) 487-3201 or IWF (www.IWFAtlanta.com) for additional information.

44 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Upcoming ISFA Training & Events

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

ISFA CEO/Senior Management Gathering Hosted by Creative Countertop Solutions Sponsored by Cosentino and CaraGreen March 16 – 18 Nashville, Tenn.

ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar Hosted by Colt Industries April 7 – 8 St. Louis, Mo. ISFA Transition: Generation 2 Workshop Hosted by The Countertop Shop April 28 – 29 Toledo, Ohio ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone May 17 – 20 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA/IWF Countertop Symposium August 23 Atlanta, Ga. IWF/ISFA Countertop Pavilion August 24-27 Atlanta, Ga. ISFA Senior Management Conference September 14 – 15 New York, N.Y. ISFA Quartz & Stone Fabrication Training Hosted by Regent Stone September 27 – 30 Virginia Beach, Va. ISFA Effective Commercial Business Seminar October 6 – 7 Southern California

ISFANews ISFA Fabrication Training

ISFA recently held four fabrication training

sessions — one in Chantilly, Va., where a half dozen people from around the country learned the skill of solid surface fabrication from training expert Chris Pappenfort, and three that are part of the new ISFA On-Site Program, in which we send an expert to your shop to teach your staff in your facility on your own equipment, so that it takes place in the actual shop setting where the paid work is going to be performed.

Two of the ISFA On-Site sessions were focuses on solid surface training — one at RTA Cabinetry in Glendale, Calif., and the other at SEARHC in Sitka, Alaska. These sessions were also both taught by Pappenfort.

The third ISFA On-Site session took place at Cutstone in Alabaster, Ala., and this session

trainer for this program.

All ISFA fabrication training programs are designed to increase safety, quality, productivity and the utilization of time-saving tools and techniques with both the beginning and experienced fabricator in mind.

Each course is taught using a variety of adult learning techniques and presentations. The information is presented in an interactive group discussion format covering theory, best practices and real life experiences. Then, the processes are demonstrated in a shop environment, including templating, material layout, cutting, seaming, bowl mounting, edge treatments, cutouts, basic repairs, inlays, thermoforming, coved backsplashes, overhangs, finishing and installation.

focused on quartz and granite fabrication. Fred

For more information call the ISFA office at

Hueston, industry stone guru, was the on-site

(412) 487-3207 or email info@isfanow.org.

CEO and Upper Management Gathering ISFA will be holding its first CEO and Upper

In addition to the general discussions, a

to 18 at the Nashville City Club, in Nashville,

McNaughton of CaraGreen is also part of the

March 16. The event is being hosted by

Green, a distributor of sustainable materials,

by Cosentino and CaraGreen.

Building Materials. She is also a LEED Accredited

Management Gathering of the year March 17

presentation on modern materials by Jessica

Tenn., with a reception the night before on

package. McNaughton is the president of Cara

Creative Countertop Solutions and sponsored

and co-authored the book Understanding Green

This represents an opportunity for companies’

Professional (LEED AP).

executive management to share experiences,

We will certainly have a few topics to bring

regarding the processes of running businesses.

participants to bring a topic as well that they find

small groups of CEOs and upper management

Please check out “ISFA EVENTS/TRAINING” tab

common concerns and best practices

to the table; however, we will look toward the

The gathering is designed to bring together

most important to their business life.

from a variety of companies to share ideas

and network in a close-knit semi-structured environment.

The participants discuss topics and share

experiences that matter most to them and are

important for managing successful businesses.

Take home ideas that can increase your bottom line and better manage industry relationships.

Also, share your growth strategies and gain feedback from the group.

Thanks to our Sponsors:

on the ISFA website at www.ISFAnow.org for

information on how you can sign up for this event.

Time is running out so be sure to join the other

registrants for this important event, and discover some vital concepts and tools you can use

to make a dramatic impact on your business.

When making reservations, please don’t forget your hotel. Accommodations can be made

through Courtyard, Nashville Downtown by calling (800) 321-2211.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 45

ISFANews Effective Commercial Business Seminar Hosted and sponsored by Colt Industries in the

This is a valuable program that can assist

St. Louis area April 7 to 8, this seminar delivers

your company to target and win commercial

information and strategies to successfully tap

business. Speakers at this event include

into the growing commercial market to expand

Commercial Fabrication Guru Russ Berry of

and evolve your business. This educational

A.S.S.T. and Industry Consultant Keith Haight.

event will help fabricators understand how

Find out more or register by clicking the “ISFA

to adapt their business toward commercial

EVENTS/TRAINING” tab on the ISFA website

opportunities, optimize their operations

at www.ISFAnow.org or contact Executive

and capitalize on commercial projects. It is

Director Mike Langenderfer at mike@isfanow.

designed to educate attendees on what it

org or (419) 779- 0164 for more information.

takes to compete in commercial markets;

When registering, please remember to book

what special considerations to expect; and

your hotel room at Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis

manufacturing principles and process methods

Southwest at (636) 861-8300 and use Group

to control costs and compete profitably.

No.: 2269626 — COLT INDUSTRIES.

2016 ISFA Annual Member Meeting & Conference With the success of the 2015 ISFA Annual Meeting & Conference as a destination-themed event in Austin, Texas, an even more exotic getaway is the location of the 2016 event — Cancun, Mexico. While the dates are still far off — Nov. 8 to 11 — early bird (discounted) registration is now open through the “ISFA EVENTS/TRAINING” tab on the ISFA website at www.ISFAnow.org.

It is being held at the Hyatt Ziva all-inclusive Gold Sponsor

ISFA Contacts

Entertainment Sponsors

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

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

Executive Director Mike Langenderfer (419) 779-0164 mike@isfanow.org

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

46 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

resort on the beautiful strip of Punta Cancun,

where you can build your network, reconnect with old friends, and learn new ways to

improve your business all while experiencing a stunning beachfront setting. This year’s

agenda is designed to provide you with the

perfect balance of educational and networking opportunities, as well as ample time to relax

and enjoy yourself. We’ve also made it easy for you to enjoy additional days at the resort by adding nights to your stay after the event.

Silver Sponsors

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

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

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

Membership Coordinator Lynn West (412) 487-3207 lynn@isfanow.org

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

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

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

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

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

Kelley Montana Director Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing 70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-5918 kmontana@humtop.com www.humtop.com

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

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

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

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 47

Fabricator Directory Companies in blue are Certified Professionals.

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

ALABAMA

Cutstone Co.

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

Surface One

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

ALASKA

Bicknell Inc.

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

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

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

ARIZONA

Kitchen Bath & Beyond

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

ARKANSAS Qualserv

7400 S. 28th St. Ft. Smith, AR 72908 479-459-5892 www.qualservsolutions.com

CALIFORNIA

AZ Countertops Inc.

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

Design Fabrication Inc.

100 Bosstick Blvd.

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

Duracite

Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara

CONNECTICUT

Humboldt Countertops

DELAWARE

Countersync

711 Interchange Blvd.

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

Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc.

815 W. Ocean Ave. Lompoc, CA 93436 323-400-1000 70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-442-5918 www.humtop.com

Integra Cabinets & Millwork

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

JJ Cabinets

5532 Fir Circle Norwalk, CA 90651 562-881-9715

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

RTA Cabinets

1145 Irving Ave. Glendale, CA 91201 323-400-1000

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

The Countertop Factory

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

COLORADO

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

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

Best Tops

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

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

Fischer Tile & Marble

1250 N. 3rd St. Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-5187

DMS

48 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Sterling Architectural Millwork 41 Roosevelt Blvd.

Enfield, CT 06082 860-929-2938

Troy Granite Inc.

FLORIDA

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

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

General Property Construction Co.

Counter Fitters LLC

1026 Lynes Ave. Savannah, GA 31415 912-231-0103 www.counterfitterssav.com 2014 Westside Ct. Augusta, GA 30907 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net 2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com

Seven Stone

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

Stone Center

1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com

1550 N.W. 96th Ave. Doral, FL 33172 305-592-9570 www.gpconstructionco.com

Top South

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

HAWAII

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

Solid Surface Technologies

Natural Stone Motif Inc.

Refresh Interiors Design

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

Sterling Mfg.

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

Surface Crafters

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

GEORGIA

Atlanta Kitchen Inc.

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

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

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

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

ILLINOIS

Custom Marble Inc.

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

Dirk Foster

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

Knapp Tile and Flooring

105 S. Main Eureka, IL 61530 309-467-9700 www.knapptileandflooring.com

Maxwell Counters, Inc. PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61842 309-928-2848

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

Granite Custom Design

Pierce Laminated Products Inc.

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

Solid Surface Creations Inc.

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

Sprovieri’s Custom Cabinets

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

2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com 403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com 55 Laura Dr. Addison, IL 60101 630-917-4690 www.sprovieris.com

Stalwart Systems

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

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

INDIANA

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

Bollock Industries Inc.

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

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

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.

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

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

Solid Fabrications Inc.

Surface Solutions Inc.

VT Industries

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

MASSACHUSETTS

Jack’s Custom Woodworking/ JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com

Marble & Granite, Inc.

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

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

Sterling Surfaces

Parman Brothers LTD

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

Top Master Inc.

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

KANSAS

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

MAINE

Bangor Wholesale

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

Maine Marble & Granite 1312 Portland Rd. Arundel, ME 04046 207-351-5733 www.thomasandlord.com

Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.

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

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.

TWD Surfaces

The Pinske Edge

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

MISSISSIPPI

Alexander Counterwrights

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

MISSOURI

Cohen Architectural Woodworking 9 Industrial Dr. St. James, MO 65559 573-265-7070 www.cohenwoodworking.com

Surface Menders

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

MONTANA Jim Shreve

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

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

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

WoodCo LLC

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

MICHIGAN Blasius Inc.

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

NEBRASKA

Builders Warehouse

Innovative Surface Works

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

Marbelite Corp.

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

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

Premier Countertops

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

8720 L St. Omaha, NE 68127 402-991-7258 www.premiercountertops.com

Paxton Countertops & Showers

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

NEVADA

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

Michiana Laminated Products Inc.

MARYLAND

Carefree Kitchens Inc.

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.

NEW JERSEY

IOWA

SolidTops LLC

MINNESOTA

Marvic Corp.

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

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

2910 Strickland St. Baltimore, MD 21223 410-233-4900 www.carefreeindustries.com 505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com

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

Innovative Surfaces Inc. 515 Spiral Blvd.

Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004

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

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

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 49

Fabricator Directory Fabricator Directory

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals.

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

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

Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy.

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

NEW MEXICO

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

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

Jaynes Structures

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

OGB Architectural Millwork

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

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

NEW YORK

Distinctive Granite

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

Evans & Paul LLC

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

Marker Systems Inc.

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

Modern Home Distributing PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523

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

Wilbedone Inc.

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

NORTH CAROLINA

L. E. Smith Co.

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

Laminate Shop, Inc.

Carolina Counters

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

Merge Design Co.

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

Premier Plus Inc.

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

Seven Stone

8350-C Arrowridge Blvd.

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

Seven Stone

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

OHIO

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

Cabinets 2 Countertops

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

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.

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

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

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

Korkan Granite

4561 Crystal Pkwy.

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

50 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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

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

Solid Surfaces Plus

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

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

Top Advantage Surfaces Inc. 12989 Market Ave. N. Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-2138 www.topadvantage.com

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

OKLAHOMA

Hoffman Fixtures Co.

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

OREGON

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

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

PENNSYLVANIA A.S.S.T.

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

Armina Stone

870 Rte. 910, Unit 400 Cheswick, PA 150244 412-406-8442 www.arminastone.com

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

John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc. PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506 610-488-6213 www.kramershowerbases.com

McGrory Inc.

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

Pence Countertops Inc.

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

RHODE ISLAND

Allied Floor Covering, Inc.

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

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

SOUTH CAROLINA Seven Stone

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

Solid Products

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

Tom Rush

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

SOUTH DAKOTA

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

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

Formatop Co.

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

TENNESSEE

Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.

1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626 www.alexandermarbleandgranite.com

Countertops of Memphis

301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis TN 38106 901-602-7115 www.countertopsofmemphis.com

Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.

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

Kitchen Tops

1300 Ault Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914 805-523-0967 www.kitchentops.net

Seven Stone

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

TEXAS

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

Ba Shi Ba Inc.

38303 Green Willow Way Magnolia, TX 77355 281-881-2911

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

Countertop Solutions LLC PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080

Elite Granite & Marble

UTAH

BARBADOS

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

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

Utah Kitchen and Bath

VIRGINIA

Metro Stone Works LLC 9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com

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

Synsor Corp.

1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy.

Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604

WISCONSIN

Bisley Fabrication Inc. 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 715-787-4410 www.bisfab.com

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

ITALY

Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)

In-Counter, Inc.

CANADA

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

Coni-Marble Mfg. Inc.

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

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

Harvest Building Products PTE LTD

40 Day Dr. Pasadena, South Australia 5042 Australia 040-571-3865

ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France 38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com

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

Svobody St., 29 Moscow Russia 125362 +7(495)782-84-75 http://akrilika.com/en

SINGAPORE

FRANCE

Asian Solid Surface

Boulevard Hacienda Galindo 116 Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230 Mexico 52-4422342743

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

AUSTRALIA

W.R. Watson Inc.

Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 +52 3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx

DECORA PRO

Shape Industries

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

CHINA

7 Qutangxia Road, Shinan District Qingdao, Shandong 266002 China 865-328-267-3659

CREA Diffusion

INDEKO

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

Wyoming Building Supply Inc.

2306 Sunset Tr. Sugarland, TX 77478

MEXICO

ARTCOR

Zhongdi Architecture & Art Solutions Co. Ltd.

Patel Inc.

1st Floor Missirian Bldg.

Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414

AKRILIKA HOLDING

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

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

Respond S.A.L.

RUSSIA

Summum Granit Inc.

WYOMING

LEBANON

Victor Coronado Services

455 Commercial Dr. Buda, TX 78610 Spectrum Surfaces Inc. 512-328-5111 www.elitegraniteandmarbleaustin.com 812 Marquis Way Green Bay, WI 54304 Gecko Solid 920-337-6575

Surface Solutions

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

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

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Bond Interiors

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

UNITED KINGDOM Interfab LTD

Unit 9 Willersey Business Park Willersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RR United Kingdom 441-386-858100 www.interfab.co.uk International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 51

Product News Triton II Bridge Saw Now Available from Matrix Machine Triton II has made its autocut bridge saw available directly from Matrix Machine. Its features include a 10-in. touch-screen display, a green line laser, English and Spanish language options, automatic water and laser on/off, a 10-in. by 6-in. ground bridge and a 20-hp sawing motor.

Circle RS#35 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Outwater Offers Nova Sheet LED Backlighting System Manufactured to one’s specifications in any required size, shape or color with several single or double-sided lighting options from which to choose, Outwater’s Nova Sheet LED Backlighting System’s Panels are designed to fit directly behind or beneath any flat translucent surface to be backlit without any necessary space for installation. Additionally, backlighting system’s panels can be wall-mounted with screws, Z-clips, U-channel or Mirror clips, and also offer unique drilling and cutting possibilities to accommodate numerous types of applications. Produced from optical grade PMMA acrylic light guide plates, the panels are laser etched with multiple grooves at precise locations using patented 3-D V-Cutting Technology to create a uniform matrix.

This medium serves to maximize and disperse even, edge-lit “frameless” illumination from the sheet’s discreetly integrated LEDs in its recessed edges across the entire surface of the panel.

Boasting low energy consumption, the system uses 70 percent less power than comparable fluorescent lighting and employs patented heat sink technology, which increases the LED life span up to approximately 70,000 hours. Light output can be tailored from 2,000 to 10,000 lux by means of an available inline dimmer with an adjustable color temperature range from 3,000K (warm white) to 5,300K (pure/cool white). UL approved for all 52 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

types of projects, the backlighting panels weigh only 2 lbs. per sq. ft., and are offered in sizes from 2 in. by 2 in. by 5/16 in. in depth (50mm by 50mm by 8mm) up to 59 in. wide by 118 in. long by 5/16 in. in depth (1,499mm by 2,997mm by 8mm). It is available in an RGB and a variable white Color Changing Temperature (CCT) format, allowing any desired color or shade of white.

Circle RS#36 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

WEHA Introduces Transport Carts WEHA introduced a new design for its A-frame transport carts in three sizes.

The carts are made to transport and store large stone countertops and other stone pieces with a maximum capacity of 4,410 lbs. to 2,205 lbs. on each side. All sides of each of the carts also have forklift receivers. The smallest version is 78 in. by 42 in. by 32 in., with a maximum load height of 34 in. It has eight straps, four on each side. The middle size is 78 in. by 58 in. by 43 in., with a maximum load height of 48 in, also with four straps on each side. The largest size is 96 in. by 68 in. by 43 in., with a maximum load height of 60 in. The larger two carts have hooks at each foot for lifting frames.

Circle RS#37 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

BLANCO Launches Multipurpose Floating Grids German sink and faucet manufacturer BLANCO introduced new Stainless Steel Floating Grids, multipurpose accessories that expand prepping and cleaning surfaces without using more counter space. The grids sit approximately 4 to 5 in. off the sink bottom, providing an additional sink level that can be used to seat heavy kitchen items or for washing foods. In addition to being used within the sink as a second sink level to wash fruits and vegetables without having to clear the deck, the floating grids are suitable on the counter as hot plates, trivets to cool and store baked goods, or just additional space to reduce clutter. They are thin and equipped with four rubber feet to ensure they won’t damage the counter. The new grids are made of stainless steel with protective bumpers and feet and are made to fit the BLANCO SILGRANIT PRECIS, PRECIS CASCADE and IKON sinks.

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

ETemplate Systems Debuts ELaser Xpress CL

Water Cool from Water Treatment Solutions is a specially formulated coolant designed to meet the demands of the stone fabricator. It is made to keep water treatment equipment free of rust, manage biological contamination, help stabilize pH levels, and improve lubricity to extend tool life. It contains high levels of corrosion inhibitors to keep your equipment rust-free, even at dilution rates of 40:1. It helps control septic odors in water and prevents filter cloths from blinding off prematurely.

ETemplate now offers the ELaser Xpress CL, an entry-level version of a 3-D laser digital measuring system custom designed for the kitchen, bath and commercial cabinet layout industries. Featuring the company’s Measure Manager™ software, it allows detailed 3-D measuring of spaces to define the features needed for the design process. Once measurements are taken, the space is then rendered in the desired cabinet layout. It will output to a number of software programs, including 20/20 Design, Cabinet Vision, KCD or ProKitchen.

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

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

Water Treatment Solutions Introduces Water Cool Recycled Water Additive

Circle RS#19 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Product News System, now available in Lowe’s stores across the nation, offers simple no-tools-required,

top-mount installation; versatile single-bowl

Countertopbid.com Offers Website Design and Online Estimating Suite ArtStone has released “All-in-One,” an online form for countertop dealers and fabricators that incorporates a variety of features unique to the industry. The All-in-One estimating suite includes printable project worksheets, customer surveys, a granite visualization gallery and an online countertop calculator.

ArtStone also offers countertop website design and free website templates that include features available with the All-in-One form. For the budget conscious, ArtStone offers a onepage website with all of the features above.

Circle RS#41 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

or double-bowl designs; and either traditional or hand-crafted, modern styles. The Fast-In’s

pre-attached, spring-loaded clips are the first

of its kind in the industry that make installation

Quote Countertops Provides Multiple Quoting Tools Quote Countertops offers four main tools to

assist in the quoting of countertops: an instant

quoting tool; a square foot calculator; a kitchen visualizer; and a kiosk program. The instant

quoting tool can handle any pricing structure, and can be implemented into a business

immediately, according to the company. Users will be able to create a pricing structure they can hand to staff, wholesale accounts, retail

accounts, etc., and they can accurately quote for you. It can also be added to a website to

easier. Rather than going underneath the sink to

attach screws, installers need only drop the top-

mount sink through the counter-surface opening and press down until the built-in clips click into position. Available in 18- or 20-gauge stainless steel, the sinks are suitable for laminate, tile and solid surface countertops. They do not

rust, chip or stain; they come in models with

extra-large sink bowls; they have slim rims; they come in one- and four-hole configurations for

use with a variety of fixtures; they have sound-

dampening pads; and they come with a limited lifetime warranty.

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

create additional business. The square foot calculator is included with the quoting tool

and reportedly makes designing, drawing and

calculating easy, accurate and immediate. The kitchen visualizer provides the ability to show

clients their countertops, cabinet colors, flooring options, appliances, backsplashes and sinks all

MixtipsUSA Launches Solid Surface Adhesive Dispensing Tools MixTipsUSA, a distributor of two-component adhesive dispensing systems and sealants, launched new Mixpac/Kroger manual and pneumatic dispensing tools. The systems are used to dispense two-component adhesives in a variety of volumetric ratios. This dispensing technology allows for a high-performance, light-weight, durable tool for demanding applications, reports the company. It also offers Statomix, static mixers, a complete line of quality, low-cost mixing tips.

Circle RS#42 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

54 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

while giving instant, accurate prices. Lastly, the kiosk program provides two options to create

more business: a national branded program that

allows qualified users to take part in our network of national accounts to capture leads in some of the biggest retail stores in North America;

and an option to purchase kiosks, brand them with personalized wrapping and place them in showrooms, retail stores, malls, home shows, design centers or anywhere visibility for a

business is needed to act as virtual showrooms that can reduce overhead or staff.

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

Franke Offers Fast-In Quick Install Kitchen Sink System Franke’s Fast-In Quick Install Kitchen Sink

New Rockler Clamps Improve Cabinet Drawer Front Installation Rockler Woodworking and Hardware introduced a new type of clamp designed to make it easier to install perfectly aligned drawer fronts on

cabinets. Sold in pairs, Rockler’s Drawer Front Installation Clamps attach to the drawer box

and hold the drawer front in place, leaving the user’s hands free to fine-tune positioning and

drive mounting screws — without the need for

double-sided tape or brad nails driven through the finished front. Because of their design, the

clamps even allow the drawer box to be

pushed back into the cabinet while they’re still holding the drawer front so users

can verify the alignment and make any

necessary adjustments. The clamps are

made of steel and feature threaded bolts

with knob handles on one end and nyloncapped clamping pads on the other to

provide strong clamping pressure without damaging the drawer box and front.

Knob-topped adjustment bolts with nylon

tips allow precise side-to-side adjustment of the drawer front position, and they

incorporate a nut that allows users to

lock in the position for quick, accurate repeatability on additional drawers.

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

Native Trails Unveils NativeStone Sinks Native Trails unveiled four new NativeStone® sinks for the kitchen and bath, including Farmhouse Quartet, Farmhouse Double Bowl, Nipoma and Tolosa. NativeStone, a proprietary material the company developed from a combination of natural jute fiber and concrete, was designed to be sturdier and more environmentally friendly than concrete, as well as 40 percent lighter and stain-resistant, reports the company. Available in Ash (a light, yet rich gray), Slate (a darker hue) and Pearl (a glowing off-white) finishes, the sinks will be available June 1. They can be mounted in different ways to offer additional flexibility. Farmhouse Quartet has four installation options: apron-front, undermount (no visible apron), bow-front or straight-front. It has outer dimensions of 33 by 20.5 by 10.25 in. and inner dimensions of 30.5

by 18 by 9 in. The Farmhouse Double Bowl is a practical double-bowl kitchen sink with geometric appeal. It has outer dimensions of 33 by 20.5 by 10.25 in. and inner dimensions of 30.5 by 21 by 10.25 in., and inner dimensions of 30.5 by 17.75 by 9.5 in. Nipomo has a soft rectangular shape and can be installed as an apron-front, undermount

ISFA Member since 1998

Circle RS#24 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2013 Circle RS#25 on Readers Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 55

Product News that is made to reduce

or vessel sink. It has outer dimensions of 19.5 by 15 by 4.5 in. and inner dimensions of 17 by

paper loading and

13 by 4 in. Tolosa is an oval-shaped bathroom

friction, extending

sink with a smooth surface. It can be installed

the product life.

as an apron-front, undermount or drop-in sink.

They work well

Outer dimensions are 19.5 by 15.5 by 4.75 in.,

for finishing

and inner dimensions are 17 by 14 by 4 in.

solid

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

Backlit Tile Kit Offers System for Backlighting Glass Tile, Translucent Surfaces

surface, wood and different tile choices. Available heights include 3, 4, 5, 6 and 12 in. Lengths are 5, 10 or 15 ft., and can be easily cut to fit any installation.

Backlit Tile Kit is a firm that provides a patented

Circle RS#47 on page 57 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

removable system to backlight glass tile or

can be controlled via Bluetooth Technology from

Performance Abrasives Introduces New Extreme Orange Hook ’n Loop Film Discs

according to the company. The company has

Discs introduced by Performance Abrasives

translucent natural stone. Designed for easy installation, the kits can be used with virtually any tile and include multicolor LED lights that can achieve up to 16 million different colors, and users’ Apple or Android smartphone or tablet,

The new Extreme Orange Hook ’n Loop Film

put together kits in multiple sizes in order to fit

are designed with a new “clog-free” technology

applications in which consistent surface finish, load resistance, durability and solid cutting performance are key. They are available in any size and any grit.

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

Circle RS#26 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

56 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

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

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

Volume 9 / 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.

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

B Email: q Check here if you do not wish to receive Product and Service information from ISFA and our industry partners via email.

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

q Manufacturer

q Raw Materials Supplier

q Woodworker/Cabinetmaker

q Builder/Remodeler

q Architect

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

Which one category best describes your job title/function? q Owner/Partner/Corporate Management and Related Personnel q Production/Plant Management and Related Personnel q Design (includes staff designer/architect and related personnel) q Purchasing/Specifier and Related Personnel q Marketing & Sales Management and Related Personnel q Other (please specify)

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

C01 Abrasives

C12 Sealers/Polishes

C02 Adhesives

C13 Seaming Equipment

C03 Air Quality Equipment

C14 Sinks

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

What surfacing materials do you work with?

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

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

C15 Software

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56

C17 Stone

57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64

C19 Tooling

65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

C21 Waterjet Equipment

73

C16 Solid Surface C18 Templating Equipment C20 Training

C22 Other Materials

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • 57

Classifieds

Ad Index Referral #

Page #

14 Architectural Products

by Outwater

27

03 BACA 21 26

Beckart Environmental, Inc. Betterley Industries, Inc.

04 Cosentino

Circle RS#27 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ETemplate Systems

43

20

Hi Tech Fasteners

42

07

ISFA Membership

10 & 13

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25

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Fabricators!

ISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment you would like to sell? Looking to fill a key position?

Why not submit a FREE classified ad? That’s right, relevant classifieds in this publication are free to ISFA fabricator members! Just send us the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest.

Email us today at editor@isfanow.org.

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

58 • Vol. 9 / Issue 1 • International Surface Fabricators Association

29 19

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KRION

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Park Industries

33 25 26 39

3 9

Performance Abrasives

55

06

Regent Stone

11

09

Tenax USA

10 QuartzSource 27

Schultz Forming Products

28 TheSize/Neolith 17

Water Treatment Solutions

11 WEHA

19 58 17 59 38 21

Circle RS#28 on the Reader Service Page or go to www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2014

Circle RS#29 on Reader Service Page or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ISFA Member since 2003