Adapting to Remote Work and Online Supply Channels Page 14
Handling, Fabricating and Installing Porcelain Slabs Page 20
Spotlight on Software, Templating and Technology Page 24
Fabricator Profile: Front Range Stone Page 28
The Changing Face of Quartz Page 32
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.
Please send letters to editor@isfanow.org or to Letters, ISFA, PO Box 627, Ingomar, PA 15127, 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, PO Box 627, Ingomar, PA 15127, attention: Editor.
Phone: (888) 599-ISFA editor@isfanow.org www.isfanow.org
Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (ISSN 2372-983X) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth “Buyers Guide” issue publishing in October. 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 (888) 599-ISFA. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2020. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.
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Photos in this publication may not depict proper safety procedures for creative purposes. ISFA and Countertops & Architectural Surfaces support the use of proper safety procedures in all cases and urge readers to take steps to institute such procedures.
Photography/graphics provided by: Crossville, Roberto Colonetti, Front Range Stone Countertops.
Publisher & Editor: Kevin Cole
Proofreader: Nancy Mueller-Truax Design: V2 Marketing Communications
Steve Mast, Vice president
Kelley Montana, Treasurer
Austin Maxwell, Secretary
Jim Callaghan, Associate Member Representative
Mike Langenderfer, Director
Joe Duszka, Director
Laura Grandlienard, Director
Rodrigo Valazquez, Director
Eric Tryon, Director
Joe Connolly, Associate Member Representative
Paul “Max” Le Pera, Associate Member Representative
Nancy Busch, Executive Director
Kevin Cole, Director of Communications and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor
Carol Wilhite, Operations Manager
Paul Wisnefski, Account Representative
Amy Kyriazis, Program Manager
Chris Pappenfort, Trainer
Fred Hueston, Trainer
The cover photo features a countertop made with State of Grace large format porcelain tile by Crossville, Inc. An elegant, yet durable tile that helps avoid callbacks and offers a lifetime of beauty. Visit http://crossvilleinc.com to discover the vast array of shapes, sizes and trims available for this product and to see Crossville’s complete lineup of tiles.
From the desk of Kevin Cole, Editor & Publisher, and ISFA Communications Director
I remember back as I prepared to enter the new, promising year of 2020 how I made a resolution to take just a little more time for myself this year. I planned on extra time to enjoy life, maybe do some reading, travel or just to make more pleasant memories with family and friends. I reasoned it would be good for my temperament, make me happier, and I’d feel more like the hard work (which I’m sure we all put in) was more like a means to an enjoyable, well-deserved end. Little did I know back then just how much time I would be given when most of the country fell under “shelter in place” or quarantine orders caused by the global virus outbreak.
However, while at first I seemed to have more time on my hands, it turned out that I also had much more to worry about. While it was common for everyone during the first days of quarantine to contemplate the negative outcomes and uncertainty that we all faced, many of us also had much more to think about. We not only had our friends and families in mind, but we also needed to consider our businesses, the well-being of our employees and even their families. The burden weighed heavily upon us to make sure what we had worked so hard to build, didn’t come crashing down with the shutdown of nearly everything. As such, you, like myself, may have been even more motivated to dig in and come up with a plan to push through the pain that was obviously headed toward all of us.
So, rather than idling in the time that may have been forced upon us, in this technological age we are able to work from nearly any setting. Even while we’re sitting in our homes with no place to go, we can relatively easily access plenty of information and work around the clock if we so choose. As is evidenced in the spotlight on software and other advancing technologies (Page 24), our email is just the beginning of what we can access from nearly anywhere, even through something as common as our phones. In this issue you will also read about working remotely (Page 14) wherein the author specifically suggests we set time boundaries and create dedicated spaces. And while I may not be the best at following my own advice, I urge you also to set boundaries at the other end of the spectrum. Make sure that you are not so engulfed by your business and your career that you sacrifice those things that soothe your temperament and push you toward your better nature.
That is not to say that the times we live in aren’t going to require plenty of thought, planning and maybe even investing some extra time in unconventional thinking to come up with inventive solutions to developing problems. However, as the saying goes, you should be working smarter, not harder. These same technologies that allow you to work from anywhere at any time can also allow you to share the burden of leadership and better regulate and prioritize your time.
Do what it takes to find that balance that keeps your business running (hopefully profitably), so you can keep your employees working (albeit safely) and able to take care of their families. However, also make sure that balance keeps you and the people you care about happy as well. Too many times we supplant a feeling of joy for a feeling of accomplishment. While accomplishment can certainly make one feel good, it can’t replace the pleasure of spending time with your family, relaxing with your favorite hobby or perhaps, sometimes, even just getting a good night’s sleep after a hard day’s work.
So, take advantage of the benefits that the expanding technologies allow, and use your time wisely to achieve your goals, but also make sure your goals include both professional and personal targets. I’m going to try to make that more of a priority and I hope you will too. Our health and wealth are important, but what good are they without our happiness?
As always, I look forward to your feedback.
Sincerely,
Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor kevin@isfanow.org
ISFA Online Maker’s Monday Meetings with Virtual Shop Tours Sponsored by Park Industries Every Monday at 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmonday-meetings
Green Business Summit Sept. 10
Online www.greenbuildexpo.com (866) 815-9824
NSI Stone Summit Sept. 16 & 17 Online (440) 250-9222 www.naturalstoneinstitute.org
ISFA Gen 2 Roundtable Event Sponsored by Moraware and BACA Systems Fall Virtual Meeting (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org
Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Fabrication Training Sponsored by ISFA Sept. 22 – 23 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com
Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Repair Training Sponsored by ISFA Sept. 24 – 25 Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com
Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces Training & Certification Event Sponsored by Park Industries, LPI, Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI Sept. 29 & 30 Virtual Event www.isfanow.org (888) 599-ISFA
Marmomacc Restart
Digital Edition Sept. 30 – Oct. 2 www.marmomacc.com +39 045 829-8561
NSI Stone Summit Oct. 7 & 8 www.naturalstoneinstitute.com (440) 250-9222
Global Health & Wellness Summit Oct. 22 Online www.greenbuildexpo.com (866) 815-9824
Canada Woodworking EAST Oct. 22 – 23 Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec Canada (888) 454-7469
IWF Connnect Oct. 26 – 30 Online www.iwfconnect.com (404) 693-8333
ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting Sponsored by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces Virtual Event Nov. 3 – 6 (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org
Greenbuild 2020 Nov. 10 – 12 Online (866) 815-9824 www.greenbuildexpo.com
Remodeling Show –Reimagined Nov. 16 – 18 Online (800) 681-6970 www.remodelingshow.com
Coverings Connected Nov. 18 Online (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com
Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Fabrication Training Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 1 – 2
Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com
Regent Stone Granite/ Quartz Repair Training Sponsored by ISFA Dec. 3 – 4
Virginia Beach, Va. (866) 233-4877 www.regentstone products.com
The International Surface Event (TISE) Jan. 26 – 28, 2021 Las Vegas, Nev. (972) 536-6440
KBIS 2021 Feb. 9 – 11, 2021 Orlando, Fla. (800) 465-5514
NAHB International Builder Show (IBS) Feb. 9 – 11, 2021 Orlando, Fla. (202) 266-8184
Coverings Connected Feb. 23, 2021 Online (571) 313-5801 www.coverings.com
Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at kevin@isfanow.org.
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Unfortunately, 2020 has been the year of COVID-19, and life and work as we once knew it will likely never be the same. Businesses are facing challenges that are at the mercy of forces out of their control, with many employees being forced to work remotely. Suppliers across all industries are challenged at every point of the supply chain to adapt to ensure their customers’ needs are met and can continue to operate. End-consumers are stuck at home with, or sometimes without, their families scrambling to find ways to cope, and ways to keep life interesting. Frankly, we’re in a crisis that feels as though it may never end, and it’s tiring. Trust me, I feel your pain.
So how do we adapt, both professionally and personally? My familiarity in growing my own remote-based business, and the personal challenges that have come with it, have provided me with a multitude of experience in dealing with crises of varying nature. And it largely comes down to awareness of ourselves and our surroundings, acceptance of our situation, effectively managing communication and expectations, and taking action.
When this all started several months ago, much of the world’s workforce got kicked out of the office and into the home, full time. Many who were able to work from home were set up remotely, and many others lost their jobs.
Fortunately some have since returned. Some of us have also become homeschooling teachers while simultaneously working. Despite the challenges, I make it a point to find ways to remain grateful for what I do have.
While those who must work in the shop or on jobsites are dealing with a host of new rules, many who can work from home are doing just that to help maintain safety. Whatever the situation, our patience has been tested, to say the least. Hopefully by now, you have learned how to work more effectively from your new environment. If you are new to remote work, or are just looking for additional suggestions, I have some pointers based on what worked well for me and our team, which has worked remotely for more than 10 years. It’s been a journey of self-discovery in conjunction with learning from others and reading about how to successfully navigate it.
The first step is to create your space. I’ve experienced a handful of living environments over the years, so I certainly can’t address them all, but whether you are in a large house with a separate office or a studio apartment working from the kitchen table, you can apply some basic principles. Create a dedicated space for work, preferably not where you sleep. Also make sure it is a comfortable and ergonomic
By Kyle Carpenter
set up. Get a decent chair set at a proper height and minimize distractions in your immediate surroundings where possible. A dedicated space will get you off to a good start.
My second suggestion is to maintain strict boundaries with those you live with. Compassionately convey that this is “work time,” while also communicating your affections for them (this is important). It is certainly easier said than done, and all of our situations are different, but I’ve learned that people will respect boundaries if they are clearly defined and reinforced, which is ultimately your responsibility. The rewards of focus and respect, which carry into other areas of life, are the result.
The third recommendation is to make sure you’re equipped with the right technology. We use Gmail for email, Slack for internal communication, RingCentral for telephone and video conferencing (Zoom is also popular these days), Dropbox for file-sharing, a web-based ERP and CRM for team-wide visibility into all customer, order and financial activity. There are numerous tools out there that offer these core functionalities, but they are essential to set yourself up for success.
Finally, stay connected! I cannot emphasize this enough. Connection to others is in our DNA, so find as many ways as you can to connect with your co-workers and employees, as well as
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friends and family. The benefits of connection are numerous. Simple tricks like having a “water cooler” channel in our internal messaging platform for writing about unrelated work topics, while often ridiculous are sometimes inspiring. We religiously schedule time every week to have an all-faces meeting, even if there is nothing on the agenda. That brief but regular facetime is critical. Meet with your co-workers regularly to check in. I often feel like I may be disturbing someone, but they may be feeling the same way, so just make time.
Manufacturers and distributors have been impacted just as much as the rest of the world, but the demands and expectations on them have not changed as much. In many cases it has become more difficult to source material because of the inevitable impact of COVID-19 on suppliers caused by changes in the staff working remotely, as well as changes to the in-house working environment to limit exposure to essential employees, such as warehouse personnel.
My experience working remotely with my company for more than 10 years is that we’ve unintentionally been preparing for this type of environment through the use of web-based communication, software and a suite of home grown tools. This framework facilitates us to work with our supply chain in much of the same remote fashion. Being a singlesource, centralized online order desk to these manufacturers and distributors has taken much of the burden off their staff, and has helped to streamline the flow of information and inventory to our mutual customers. Our ability to procure products from suppliers in a timely fashion is what makes our customers able to do their jobs effectively. Each delay in the supply chain magnifies the delay to the end-customer.
Working with more than 50 different supply conduits, ranging from distributors to manufacturers of sheet material and overseas product manufacturers, has provided a wealth of knowledge in managing various channels. These suppliers are spread across multiple states and countries, with each having different guidelines to deal with this crisis. We’ve assigned one of our team members to reach out to each of our suppliers to understand what delays they are facing so that we can clearly
communicate that to our customers through our marketing and sales efforts. This not only allows us to set expectations for our customers, but it also alleviates frustration and stress for our customer support team in dealing with orders and suppliers.
Learning to communicate more effectively with your suppliers is always good business practice, but it’s never been more important than now. Utilizing marketplaces and singlesource procurement solutions can also alleviate much of this burden.
Customers expect more from businesses now more than ever, even before COVID-19. Amazon and other online marketplaces changed the way consumers shop and have products delivered, increasing the need-it-right-now mentality. However, how can we possibly keep up with these customer expectations when we aren’t Amazon, and don’t have products that fit its model?
Companies like Amazon are successful because they manage, and meet, the customer expectation. If it’s too difficult to set exact delivery dates and meet them, our experience is that it is better to under-promise and over-deliver. Expectation setting is even more critical during a crisis when tensions are heightened. Being transparent with customers and letting them know of uncertainties caused by the crisis makes a difference, and many are very understanding if the expectations are established ahead of time. Also, frequent communication of the status of an order, even if delayed, is better than leaving a customer wondering what is happening. We’ve never found over-communicating to be met with negative feedback, in fact, quite the opposite. Clear communications and expectations set upfront will ultimately make for repeat customers and referrals. It also creates a happier sales and customer service team, as they ultimately have to face the brunt of an unhappy customer.
These are hard times with a lot of uncertainty. Many people have to work from home with family, children, roommates, chores, a multitude of distractions and or conversely feelings of complete isolation. Even in a full household, we
can feel disconnected from our work teams. Whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all been a little traumatized from this crisis that’s now gone on for months, likely with many more to come. So how do we keep our heads straight, continue to be patient and present with our families and navigate feelings of anxiety, while also meeting the demands of our work and professional obligations?
Awareness, acceptance and action.
Those three words carry more power for me than I ever could have imagined. They are part of my daily sanity tool kit. When our team first started working remotely, I struggled with not being in the presence of a team. However, the stress I experienced forced me to learn how to adapt to survive in this new environment, and that is how I can share them with you. While I could write a whole book on this topic (of which there are and I suggest reading), I will just say that I’ve learned to become aware of what is happening in my mind and body, accept that there are certain things out of my control and focus on what I’m responsible for, taking action on the areas where I can make an impact. I apply these simple, but not always easy, principles to all areas of my personal and professional life, and know firsthand the benefits that come from them.
Even if we will eventually reintegrate into a team setting, we should make the best of our experience while we’re here. Remote work is here to stay for many, and the businesses we work with are going through the same challenges. Managing expectations, communicating effectively, being aware of our behavior, accepting our present situation and taking decisive action to make a difference are all effective tools. Our team, and I, use them on a daily basis to navigate any crisis that comes our way. Applying these may be just what you need to accomplish the tasks at hand.
Kyle Carpenter is Co-Founder and President of SolidSurface.com, an online supplier and outlet of solid surface sheet material from leading manufacturers such as Corian®, HI-MACS, Avonite, Staron, Wilsonart, Formica, Meganite, Hanex and more. For more information visit www.solidsurface.com or call (888) 715-3007.
Wilsonart Engineered Surfaces signed a definitive agreement to acquire Alpine Sales, Inc., a Columbia, S.C.-based wholesale distributor to the building and remodeling industry. Alpine Sales distributes decorative surfaces, postformed countertops, lacquers and stains, and hardware.
The acquisition of Alpine Sales enhances Wilsonart’s services with three locations in South Carolina and one in North Carolina. Alpine Sales has distributed Wilsonart surfacing products for more than 40 years. The transaction is expected to close in September.
DuPont Corian To Offer
SolidSurface.com has partnered with DuPont™ to offer discontinued and custom colors of Corian® Solid Surface through its online marketplace at www.solidsurface.com. For ISFA fabricator members, the company is offering exclusive discounted pricing. ISFA members wishing to take advantage of the discount must register as an ISFA fabricator with the company before placing an order. Non-ISFA fabricators can also order discontinued sheets, but without the special ISFA member pricing. The company noted that the inventory rotates regularly and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. SolidSurface.com’s updated inventory is available online and also includes a variety of other in-production and discontinued solid surface brands.
Vadara Quartz and Ace Granite have announced an expanded distribution partnership. Under the agreement, Ace Granite, proprietary distributor for Vadara Quartz in Florida, will also be the dedicated provider in North and South Carolina with their Charlotte, N.C., facility serving as the hub for these regions. This alliance focuses on expanding Vadara’s quartz surface line through Ace Granite’s integrated supply chain and customer-centric sales force. The expanded agreement further demonstrates both companies’ willingness to drive growth and build relationships with customers. In addition, Vadara Quartz is actively seeking distributors within
At the end of June Gemstone ceased its production at 435 Harrison Street in Elkhart, Ind., where it has been producing solid surface sinks under the Gemstone brand for nearly 15 years. Gemstone grew from 13,000 sq. ft. to approximately 28,000 sq. ft. in three buildings during that time. With a need for even more space, the company started production in a new factory at 2040 Industrial Parkway in Elkhart. The new building provides Gemstone 56,000 sq. ft. of production, warehousing and shipping space. With the change of address, Gemstone has also changed its look developing a new logo with the addition of its shower pan line. “We became very nervous with the uncertainties because of the COVID-19 crisis,” said Jeffrey Smith, sales and marketing manager. “However, we are thrilled to be in a beautiful new facility under one roof where we can now have so many new opportunities to service our customers’ needs.”
the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon), Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Utah), and MidAtlantic (Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, DC Metro) regions.
Scott McLendon, an experienced exec in B2B supplies distribution, is the new CEO of Pearlman Group, a U.S. developer and specialty distributor of supplies, tools and equipment for hardsurface fabricators. McLendon, who also joins Pearlman’s board of directors, succeeds outgoing CEO Dan Davidenko. McLendon brings more than 30 years of experience as a senior executive with engineered products and specialty-industrial distribution companies, including Rexel USA, Gexpro (formerly GE Supply), Allied Electronics and Phoenix Contact.
Karran, supplier of quality sinks, recently launched a newly redesigned website at www.karran.com. It is a dynamic site that is both informative and user-friendly. An exciting new feature of this site is the ability to leave a product review and upload a photo if desired. The company is asking fabricators/installers and retailers of Karran’s sinks to write honest reviews for the site. This can be done by simply typing in the sink model number to review in the search bar, going to the product page and clicking “Write a review” to the right of the main product image.
Cosentino opened a new Cosentino West Coast Hub in Vacaville, Calif., just north of San Francisco. One of three in the United States, the new hub will include more than 157,350 sq. ft. of warehouse and office space, and acts as a central shipping location for customers in the western United States. The facility catalogs products and acts as a storage center, which in turn, expedites shipping to regional centers, home improvement centers, fabricators, and kitchen and bath specialty stores. The new location also helps meet the growing demand for Cosentino products on the West Coast, which include ultra-compact Dekton®, and Silestone® quartz surfacing. Other Cosentino locations in California include Cosentino City Showrooms in Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as Cosentino Centers in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco.
The L.E. Smith Company, located in Bryan, Ohio, received a national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBENC).
The certification is WBENC’s national standard that covers a meticulous process including an in‐depth review of the business and site inspection. The certification process is designed to confirm the business is at least 51 percent owned, operated and controlled
by a woman or women. By including women‐owned businesses among their suppliers, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier diversity programs.
The conditions and circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic — including accompanying travel restrictions and federal, state and local governmental regulations — have made it impossible to stage IWF 2020 without endangering the health and safety of all exhibitors, attendees and the Atlanta community at large. The decision was made after a long, intense and exhaustive study and consideration by IWF. However, in lieu of the in-person show, IWF will be offering an online event. Starting Monday, October 26, and continuing for five straight days, IWF Connect will provide access to hundreds of exhibitors offering the global woodworking and related industries’ newest products, technologies, innovations and solutions in one easy-tonavigate online experience. IWF Connect will allow networking with exhibitors through live chat and meetings, viewing live product demonstrations and attendance of webinars.
Complimentary registration opens the door to new product discoveries, online events, exclusive deals and much more on your schedule, and easily organized through your customized My IWF Connect Show Planner. Registration opens September 1, 2020.
Atlantic Plywood, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parksite, has expanded its product mix with the addition of FENIX®. Created by Arpa Industriale, FENIX is a technical and aesthetic answer to today’s interior design trends: smart materials and matte surfaces. FENIX is defined by its unique characteristics such as an extreme matte finish that is antifingerprint and the fact that it is thermally repairable, thanks to its innovative surface technology. Inspired by Italian tradition, FENIX features 20 elegant colors and represents a unique alternative to other materials.
To attain the highly prized carbon neutral status, Neolith® followed the internationally recognized Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) and implemented a dynamic, innovationled sustainability strategy coupled with tactical, high-value carbon off-setting. These measures led to carbon neutrality across the entire business, with the brand receiving 100 percent of its electricity in the year 2019 from renewable energy sources. This means no less than 7,690 tons of carbon dioxide emissions have been removed. Also, 90 percent of the waste generated by Neolith is recycled and given a second life either with company operations or through authorized third-party organizations. The surfaces also embody sustainable principles, with up to 48 percent of the weight of each slab produced being made from recycled material. Additionally, plant machinery has been upgraded to improve energy
BLANCO has made new leadership appointments for key executives in its North American region along with the addition of a new vice president of sales and marketing for the U.S. market. The changes represent the global organization’s strategic approach to sustainable growth by further increasing its brand presence and elevating its product portfolio. The BLANCO North America team consists of Jeremy Cressman, U.S. VP of sales and marketing; Wendy McPherson, Canadian VP of sales and marketing; Edyta Drutis, North American director of brand and communications; Tim Maicher, North American director and head of product management; Mike DiFranco, North American senior VP of finance and administration; and Jake MacDonald, North American director of quality.
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) developed a new pilot credit in the LEED green building rating system called Safety First: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Space. The credit is intended to support buildings
efficiency, particularly the third production line’s furnace, which was had an O2 and pressure control system installed, significantly reducing the amount of gas consumed. This is complemented by a 40 percent reduction of forklift truck diesel use and a 20 percent decrease in hazardous waste. The company also started several environmental projects to compensate for and/or absorb carbon dioxide. Key among them is an upcoming project in Central America to protect and maintain the unique biodiversity of the Guatemalan Caribbean Conservation Coast. Through this project, Neolith will be working to protect the unique biodiversity of the forests and jungles remaining in the region. As a direct result of the project activities, 4 million tons less of carbon dioxide will be created by 2021, the equivalent of taking more than 440,000 homes off the grid for a year.
and spaces as they work to respond to the COVID-19 through sustainable, healthy practices. The credit provides guidance on effectively cleaning and disinfecting buildings using green cleaning best practices that also meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines relative to COVID-19. To earn the credit, among the things facilities must do are create a policy and implement practices that focus on a healthy indoor environment and worker safety.
USGBC is focused on leveraging LEED as a tool to help protect human health and the environment, while also restoring the economy. The roll-out of this new credit is part of the green building organization’s new economic recovery strategy, called Healthy People in Healthy Places Equals a Healthy Economy.
The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) announced the results of its annual board of directors election and the installment of their officers for the next year. Members re-elected Matt Wehner of Cabinet Concepts by Design (Springfield, Mo.), and Gregory Paolini of Gregory Paolini Designs (Canton, N.C.) was elected as a new board member. Both will serve three-year terms.
In addition, the board appointed the following officers who will serve in these roles from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021: Chris Dehmer of Dark Horse Woodworks (Atlanta, Ga.) will continue to serve as president; Ken Kumph of Premier Builders (Georgetown, Mass.) was nominated to be vice president; James Fox of Fox Woodworking (Phoenixville, Pa.) will serve as treasurer; and Gregory Paolini will assume the role of secretary. The membersat-large are Monika Soos of Sofo Kitchens (Maple Ridge, British Columbia); Brian Clancy of Clancy Woodworking (Sherman, Conn.); and Matt Wehner. Exiting the board after six years including a stint as president is Leland Thomasset of Taghkanic Woodworking (Pawling, N.Y.).
Stone Services Group (SSG) added Dan Lyons to its growing workforce.
As president, Lyons will utilize his 25 years of experience in commercial construction to lead SSG through this time of growth and into the next phase of its development into a national organization of commercial countertop installers and templators. Calling on his experience as a general contractor, Lyons will initially focus on the commercial side of the business.
HDI Introduces DesignOneSource
Hardwoods Distribution Inc. (HDI) introduced DesignOneSource, the new specification division. This new division is organized to provide architects and designers seamless specification support for decorative surface materials across North America by aligning leading global suppliers and front-of-trend interior decor products that adhere to the highest environmental standards. It is supported by a vast internal information network, providing instant access to design inspiration, trend insight, vendor coordination, training and technical product support. The DesignOneSource specification team includes 15 experienced industry professionals, combined with a broad product offering supplied by 66 distribution centers. An easily
ChromaLok Adhesives has welcomed seasoned industry veteran Ray Aleksic to its team. Aleksic has been a part of the solid surfacing industry since 1985. A recognizable face in the industry, Aleksic has worked in every part of it, including sheetmanufacturing, fabrication, distribution, and particularly relevant to his new position, surfacing adhesives. In his new role he will help the company’s customers by sharing his knowledge, experience and expertise.
navigable and informative website for the division offers project imagery, documents, tools and numerous support services.
CountertopResource.com, an information portal for countertop professionals working with any material, announced it has signed a letter of intent with Resource Publishing, LLC, to be acquired for an undisclosed amount. The company launched its flagship award-winning web portal at www.countertopresource. com in 2012 and also has a companion website at www.greensurfaceresource.com. The sale, which includes both properties, is scheduled to be finalized by the end of 2020, and no staff changes are planned at this time. However, the company said its main site is currently undergoing an extensive refinement process and upgrade that will add additional functionality to it, and it expects to relaunch around the time the purchase is finalized.
ATI Decorative Laminates, a supplier of decorative surfacing solutions, entered the world of e-commerce in a bid to share its products with a wider audience. Architects and interior designers have always been able
to order ATI’s products through distributors, but potential clients outside of commercial industries have not always found a clear path to purchase products the same way. Both commercial and residential customers looking for decorative laminates, unique wall panels and ceiling tiles can now order online at Shop.ATILaminates.com. All of ATI’s bestknown product lines will be offered online, including NuMetal™ high-pressure laminates, MirroFlex™ decorative wall panels and ceiling tiles, the customizable Fusion line available on many substrates, and LumiSplash™, its patented ultra-thin, illuminated laminate. Flat rate shipping is available on most orders. In addition to PayPal, all major credit cards will be accepted.
The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’ Association (ASCER) is calling for entries for the annual Tile of Spain Awards of Architecture, Interior Design and Final Degree Project. Sponsored by Endesa and the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), the Tile of Spain Awards have forged a prestigious reputation, promoting the use of Spanish ceramic tiles in architecture and interior design projects worldwide. The Tile of Spain Awards have a prize fund of €39,000 ($44,082) shared between three categories. The two main categories, Architecture and Interior Design, each have cash prizes of €17,000 ($19,214). The Final Degree Project award has a cash prize of €5,000 ($5,625). The panel of judges is also entitled to give two special mentions in each category. Entries from Spain and abroad are being accepted through October 23, 2020. More information is available on the organization’s website.
After exploring the possibility of holding the 2020 fair, the organizers of CERSAIE recognized the general conditions determined by the COVID-19 pandemic make it impossible to organize an event that would come up to the show’s usual quality standards. Attention and respect for the interests of the global clientele who represent the show’s most important asset prompted the decision to skip the 2020 edition that was scheduled
for November 9 to 13. Given the desire to continue to improve the quality and international value of the exhibition, attention is now focused on the next installment of CERSAIE in 2021, which will be held in Bologna from Sept. 27 to Oct. 1, 2021. The 2021 event will combine the renewed physical exhibition with an immersive digital experience aimed at promoting and expanding participation by exhibitors and visitors.
Southco, Inc., a global provider of engineered access solutions, relaunched its completely redesigned and refreshed website, southco.com. Through this launch, Southco is delivering an improved user experience to its customer base, enabling mechanical engineers to find solutions to their design challenges faster than ever
before. The new and improved site features a user-friendly design with a fully responsive, clean layout that is compatible with all browsers and mobile devices. Created with the user experience in mind, the redesign includes many new features to help users quickly and easily navigate the site to find the appropriate access products for their applications. The redesigned website is also globally accessible and is available in eight languages in addition to English: German, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Portuguese. Additionally, tools and resources such as CAD downloads, technical information, brochures and case studies have been made more readily accessible through relevant product and support pages.
In order to reflect the company’s explosive growth in people, products and partnerships, Braxton-Bragg, a respected distributor in the stone industry for nearly three decades, has changed its name to BB Industries (BBI). “As our company has grown and evolved to the point where we are nearly unrecognizable, it is time to mirror that change in our name,” said CEO Rick Stimac. “We feel the BBI image represents our 26 years of experience, while embracing all of our changes, and striving to meet our new objectives.”
This Marble Gray vanity wtih large mitered edges was fabricated from 6mm porcelain glued to a 20mm WEDI foam core backing board.
By Roberto Colonetti
The virtues of porcelain slabs are numerous, which has led to its growing popularity. The material is light, thin and tough, making it suitable for nearly any interior project from bathroom sinks and vanities to shower trays, kitchen countertops and bathtubs. Because it is lightweight, in can be used in applications where weight plays a role, such as yachts, aircraft and recreational vehicles, among many others. It is also highly stain resistant, so as not to require sealing and is low maintenance. It’s UV-stable, heat- and frost-resistant, so it can be used outdoors as well.
However, while it has its advantages, there are some things that any fabricator will need to learn before working with the material. In this article I hope to share with you some of what I have learned over my 15 years of working with the material.
My first introduction to working with porcelain was around 2005. At that time we were trying to make vanities out of tiles. I can tell you with great certainty that I have come a long way since then.
As a stonemason my first approach to
and
format
slabs was to work with it like I would work with any natural or engineered stone. However, after more failures than you can imagine, I decided I needed to find a new approach. As such, I started to look deeper to find the best way to work with the material.
The first step I took was to learn the cutting process. Cutting porcelain, for some fabricators, could be a real nightmare of a first step, because in this process some very specific rules must be respected. The first one is that you must have a good blade! This can and will make a huge difference. A second very important thing to remember is to inspect the material. In many
Made in 12mm Statuario porcelain with a matte finish, this nearly 20-ft.-long island has a large overhang made possible because the material is so light weight.
years of now working with porcelain slabs, I’ve seen many good materials, but at the same time I’ve also seen numerous bad materials. When I say bad materials, I’m not talking about the print or the finish of them, but rather if the material is not flat, take warning. A bulge in a porcelain slab will give you MAJOR PROBLEMS. It will be quite impossible to properly cut slabs that are bowed. When you put a slab on the bench for cutting and you can push it down, you must avoid using this material.
This 18-ft. island in Calacatta porcelain has a glossy finish and full drop-down ends. The countertop behind it is made of the same material and includes a cooktop and sink. Both use material that is only 6mm thick, which use WEDI foam core backing board and mitered edges.
During the cutting process, with most brands (but not all, as there are some manufacturers that have developed methods to produce stress-free slabs), it is very important to remove the tension in the slabs all around the perimeter. This is usually done by making relief cuts as specified by the suppliers.
Of key importance slabs MUST BE FLAT. Remember, as well, that the surface upon which you are performing the cutting the slabs must also be flat. In some cases I use a kind of foam to allow for less vibration when cutting a slab. A very flat cutting bed is critical because if the surface is uneven, when you saw the slab, a portion of the material would likely drop down before the blade reaches the end of the cut, causing it to crack. Pay close attention to this because it is extremely important.
In terms of blades now on the market, there are many blades suitable for use. I always prefer to use as small of a blade as I can because smaller blades create less vibration, and therefore produce a better cut. Another important thing is getting the right amount of water on the blade during sawing. Some people do not realize how high the temperature can reach when you cut porcelain.
Questions regarding speed can always be related back to the quality of the blade. Some blades will have to be sharpened more often than others, but this is not necessarily synonymous with a poor quality blade.
Another system that can be used to cut porcelain is a waterjet. While these machines are more expensive compared to a saw, they will allow for faster speeds and can obviously be optimized for the cutting process; plus they will allow you to cut any shape. However, just with sawing, it is critical for the bed to be flat. Keep in mind that during processes like mitering using a waterjet, the more accurate the mapping process of your probe is, the more perfect your miter will be. For the best results, all of the mapping should be done before making any cut because the slab will still be clean. Once cutting starts you risk having sand or grit on top that could change measurement during the mapping. Another very important consideration with the waterjet is to make sure
the water is highly filtered. This will ensure you get a long life on both your orifice and your pump. Dirty water can damage a waterjet orifice very quickly.
Beyond the cutting process, there are things that must be learned regarding other parts of the fabrication of porcelain. In many ways, it can be like fabricating natural stone, but in some ways there are certainly differences. In addition to blades specifically made for sawing it, the adhesive used must be designed for use with porcelain.
For instance, in fabricating elements using thin porcelain of less than 12mm, the structure will need to be made in such a manner as to
This island in Statuario porcelain and a matte finish has a fully integral sink that mimics the farmhouse look, and uses material only 6mm thick with foam core backing board and mitered edges.
give enough strength to the material. For this reason, there are many types of foam that you can use, as well as several types of glue. Both of these must be chosen very carefully so as to ensure the longevity of the end product. Some fabricators prefer to use thinset mortar, while others will use an epoxy glue. Both are OK, but in a situation that you’re going to glue porcelain on any expandable material, such as MDF for example, you must use an elastic glue to avoid incurring problems after the installation.
This highly-custom vanity made from 6mm Calacatta Gold porcelain has a joint on the left where book matching is done at the joint because of its length.
This unique island made of 12mm Statuario with a matte finish moves up and down with the push of a button to serve either as a working countertop or more like a large coffee table.
The coverage of the glue on any kind of substrate must be nearly 99 percent. The adhesive used on a miter is almost the same, in that the correct glue will provide assurance to avoid problems in the future. I’ve seen beautiful jobs installed that, after a while, suffer from material cracking. The proper substrate and right glue play an important part during this process. As with cutting, when making anything using porcelain, you must keep an eye on the surface, checking it regularly to make sure it is straight and level during all processes.
Also, if you are fabricating something for an outdoor application, make sure your glue has been developed for use in outdoor environments. Consider all the elements – rain, sun, etc., and use a glue that is elastic enough to hold up to expansion and contraction. I have seen fascia fall off after only a short time because the adhesive chosen was not correct for the project.
Regarding the miter, you can perform a simple test to check the strength of the glue in the miter joint. Simply glue the pieces together and after the cure time try to break it. If the pieces will break apart at the glue joint, it means it isn’t strong enough. If the pieces break the porcelain and keep the miter joint hold in position, the glue is a suitable one. Also, on thin porcelain it is always a good thing to allow a gap between the pieces, especially on the seams.
Polishing and Installation
In regard to polishing, the process is very comparable to polishing stone. Use a sufficient amount of water and high-quality polishing pads. Additionally, a few companies have developed special kits to repair light scratches on the surfaces of porcelain, which can be useful if there are any damages.
The installation process is obviously the last, and a particularly important part, of the overall process. When you have to install something like a kitchen countertop, there are a number of important aspects to keep in mind. Just as when cutting the material, when installing it, it is critical it remains level and well supported. As such, it is of great importance that the cabinetry that will hold the tops is level. Additionally, all cutouts should have solid support, especially where you may have a joint. Also, I always prefer to leave an allowance between the walls and porcelain to avoid future problems if there is any expansion.
One other significant thing to remember is that using thin porcelain, such as 3.5mm or 6mm, means treating it different than that which is 12mm or thicker. Thin porcelain requires more attention during the cutting process and fabrication because of the fact you need a substrate to support it. Thicknesses of 12mm
or above do not require substrate, but we still use it to buildup things above that thickness.
As a final thought, watch for and keep up to date with the latest products and procedures for handling, cutting, gluing, polishing and installing porcelain slabs, as well as any other aspect of working with this material. It is likely more and more attention will be paid to the development of these products as it continues to increase in popularity.
Roberto Colonetti is a global expert on porcelain with 20 years of experience working with the material. While born and raised in Italy, he currently resides in Australia fabricating porcelain to create functional works of art while also speaking on the subject and training others on porcelain fabrication best practices. For more information, he can be reached at robertocolonetti@gmail.com or via www. colonettiroberto.com. Colonetti will soon be moving to the United States to work for Moderno Porcelain in Houston (www.modernoworks.com).
ISFA will be hosting an online porcelain training/certification event Sept. 29 and 30.
Please see Page 38 for more details.
CountertopResource.com, launched in 2012, is the most comprehensive information portal for countertop fabricators and related professionals. With daily updates including new products, industry news, articles, videos, blog posts, safety resources and much more, it is a critical outlet for the industry. The awardwinning website is currently undergoing a major upgrade to make it even more user-friendly and offer additional features. Sign up for its monthly newsletter at www.countertopresource.com to have all of the latest information relevant to your business sent directly to your inbox, or even sign up for daily posts.
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In less than six years, Sarto Countertops had grown from $300,000 to more than $6 million in business, with automation equipment greatly improving its shop processes. However, the company was struggling with communications and job management, while cobbling together platforms from multiple software subscriptions. As such, it developed a modern software that everyone in the company could use to reduce headaches, inefficiencies and leaving money on the table. The software dubbed EaseEdge is now available to other fabricators, and it includes job management, estimating, invoicing, drawing, scheduling and automated job tasks. There are no additional costs per user, making it an affordable option that everyone in a company can use. It was designed to be powerful, but also easy to use and mobile friendly so those in the field can get the information they need. A free trial is available at easededge.com.
ETemplate Systems now offers an “ELaser Xpress Subscription,” a version of the templating system based on making quarterly payments to better manage the cost. The Xpress Subscription lowers the initial investment, and also includes software updates and a laser head warranty over the life of the subscription. Standard features include accuracy of 1mm for a standard space, automated functions for creating countertop templates more quickly, a compact design, digital leveling, enhanced speed, digital leveling and large icons. Basic operation consists of simply setting it up, shooting the points and hitting enter. A finished template that includes dimensions, offsets, overhangs, radii, splashes, etc. is then created for quick and easy export for fabrication.
always available. Visit more jobsites in less time for superior, more profitable results. Digitally integrate templating with office inventory and job management systems, as well as shop equipment. Additional software licenses are not required to expand PHOTOTOP 5 to additional templaters. Simply order additional ORGANIZE Field Kits, which include a laptop, camera and markers.
Fabricator’s Choice PHOTOTOP 5® now has even more capabilities for serious fabricators. New features include Auto-Create Miter Strips, Auto-Create Lamination and Auto-Dimension On PDF Output. Now with ORGANIZE®, it provides immediate on-site confirmation and file delivery of the highly detailed templates. Professional training and online support are
Go direct from design to CNC manufacturing with KCD Software’s One-Button Machining. KCD’s Commander calculates and optimizes toolpaths, maximizes material yield with True Shape Nesting and generates CNC machine code [G code] for CNC routers. It provides both production speed and agility. Custom one-off pieces are easily modified in the KCD Parts Viewer. One click lets users add cut-outs, change the part shapes, move and remove holes, dados and more, and then nest with the rest. KCD partners with hundreds of companies to provide suitability with a large selection of equipment, software tie-ins and tools for unique design to manufacturing needs.
LPI’s LT-2D3D Laser Templator has CNC integration capabilities designed for quick, seamless file transfer to numerous brands of CNC equipment. Files are set up specifically to work using each brand’s requirements, meaning faster fabrication through less rework or other
modifications. Because of the specific integration capabilities, many respected CNC suppliers recommend the system. Plus, the LT-2D3D is made in the United States.
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Software made by Moraware is designed to meet the needs of countertop fabricators. The company’s CounterGo estimating software assists thousands of fabricators to professionally draw, layout and quote countertops in minutes. It’s fast and consistent output is designed to increase sales and close rates so users can grow their business. Additionally, Moraware’s Systemize scheduling software continues to help users grow by preventing expensive mistakes and increasing communication both with customers and in the shop. Visit moraware.com for more information.
The all new SIDE-SHOT™ by Park Industries® provides fabricators the tool to capture slab images right at the machine with an extremely small footprint requirement. The SIDE-SHOT incorporates Slabsmith™ Lite software for vein matching and 3-D rendering. The equipment allows the user to capture high dimensional accuracy of digital slabs, view a vein-matched project preview before cutting the material (up to two slabs), and utilize common line cutting to optimize material yield with the ability to communicate with multiple cameras (great for twin table machines). An upgrade to the full Slabsmith™ Basic Bundle is available at any time.
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The Prodim Proliner measuring tool creates very accurate digital templates in a fast and easy way. Prodim Factory software maintains high quality and ease of use while preparing digital templates for production and more. The latest improvements enable templators and fabricators to design their projects while making use of views in 2-D and 3-D. The software will help prevent mistakes beforehand by alerting the operator when problems occur, like the collision of solids. This allows for eliminating all uncertainty before installment.
QuickQuote Countertop Software from Crystallyne makes quoting, drawing, scheduling and laying out countertops easier and faster than ever. It features a uniquely intuitive interface that creates a fully labeled scale drawing side by side with every quote. Its flexible pricing system offers multiple pricing methods to choose from so virtually any material can be quoted, and it provides the option to customize items and services to fit a particular business. Quotes can be printed alongside the drawings on a single page, exported to a number of different formats such as .PDF, and transferred directly to QuickBooks®. The built-in schedule provides a place to keep track of everything from fabrication to installation, and the internal slab inventory lets users lay out the parts on the slabs for more accurate material counts. For more information and a free trial of QuickQuote visit quickquotecountertops.com
Quote Countertops is a sales and marketing, lead-generating software that modernizes the way consumers shop for and buy countertops. The web-based, white-label software engages
and empowers consumers early in the sales process to both design their dream kitchen or bath, and create a fast and accurate quote, all before stepping into a showroom or speaking to a salesperson. The software is easily integrated into and promoted on company websites, social media platforms, digital advertising and email marketing. Recent software updates provide greater value for consumers and fabricators alike, including full e-commerce transactions that include contracts, checkout and payments; 4K images and renderings; additional room templates; an expanded library of stones and other products; associated items and gallery images; instant quoting by square foot or slab; kiosk integration and more.
Slabsmith™ produces digitized slabs that are highly accurate and detailed through proprietary calibration techniques. The digital slabs are true to life in both color and dimension, and contain all of the relevant properties of the original slab that was photographed. The digital slabs are inventoried and are used to create 3-D visual layouts for customers. When a digital slab is created it is immediately saved into Slabsmith’s SQL database. This provides the ability for anyone in a company to easily locate and view the slabs in inventory based on any of the properties of the slab. Its layout tools allow for easy optimization for aesthetics or yield. The Perfect Match™ layout module provides tools that are customized for the specific needs of users to efficiently layout countertops.
SolidSurface.com has teamed up with Dupont™ to offer discontinued and custom colors of Corian® Solid Surface through its online marketplace. Inventory rotates regularly and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. SolidSurface.com is an online supplier
and outlet of solid surface sheet material from leading manufacturers such as Corian® , HI-MACS, Avonite, Staron, Wilsonart, Formica, Meganite, Hanex and more. Fabricators not only now have access to full lines of inproduction colors, they’ll find significant cost savings in the often hard-to-find discontinued and overstock full, and partial, sheet material. Powerful search tools allow filtering by brand, color, pattern, size and price. The company also offers a selection of accessories, including color-matched adhesives, tooling and sinks. It also include ProFinder, a free listing service for fabricators that is a resource for specifiers and homeowners to locate local fabricator professionals. Request special fabricator pricing at www.solidsurface.com/contact/.
SPEEDdraw is made to expedite turning digital measuring files into completed shop drawings and program-ready files. Whether using a field measurer or a CAD draftsman to finalize your dxf files, SPEEDdraw produces a final shop ticket and creates program ready files in 50 to 75 percent of the time. The system was developed by countertop fabricators for countertop fabricators.
SPEEDlabel® is made to track countertops in a shop to maintain accountability for quality control, piece by piece. SPEEDsnip® can create individual parts from a CAD drawing, and parts are automatically named and uploaded to the job within Moraware. There
are customized label designs to choose from including top, bottom and edge formats. User-defined information automatically pulls from Moraware and eliminates the need for data entry. Customized data fields allow pertinent job information (i.e. install date, edge profile, etc.). SPEEDlabel also provides a quick understanding of the status of every part in the shop and helps ensure entire jobs is kept together. The customized labels are tear- and water-proof, with specially formulated adhesive that sticks to countertops in harsh environments, yet still comes off with ease.
The StoneApp ERP System by Stone Grid USA is a comprehensive, simple-to-use and powerful software system built for efficiency. It allows users to enter leads, move to a quote, promote
to a job, manage material, create schedules and assign production resources without repetitive data entry. Users can also control margins through price books, built-in cost analysis and commission structures. It is made to reduce errors and manage production with scheduling, parts tracking, field applications and capacity tools. Users can manage purchasing and inventory with reconciliation and valuation reporting tools. It also syncs with QuickBooks and Sage to eliminate data entry time and errors, Slabsmith to bring in photos, and Quote Countertops to work leads.
Stone Profit Systems provides an all-in-one, end-to-end, user-friendly software for the natural stone, tile, quartz and solid surface industries. The ERP system works to manage
all aspects of a business, allowing complete visibility to help companies work efficiently while improving profitability. The software has modules for accounting, estimating, holds, inventory management, purchasing, quotations, reports, sale and scheduling. It is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to meet the complex needs of distributors, fabricators and manufacturers.
Site visibility and safety have always been at the core of the solutions offered by Triax. Leveraging our experience by connecting more than 35,000 workers across our Spot-r labor management platform, we have developed Proximity Trace to support two main areas of
concern facing all employers during COVID-19 — social distancing and contact tracing. Arm your crew with active worker proximity alerts, in the form of a visual and audible alarm, so individuals know when to adjust their current distance to a proper social distance along with passive collection of worker interactions for contact tracing should an individual test positive.
By Kevin Cole, Editor
Front Range Stone Inc. began with the idea of taking advantage of the granite boom that was taking place as the industry moved into 2000. However, as it grew, it focused not only on advanced technology and providing high-quality service, but also on product diversity.
In May of 2001 Brad Pearce and Clark Lechner started Front Range Stone, operating out of a 2,500-sq.-ft. shop in Englewood, Colo., and fabricating only granite. Pearce and Lechner had met working previously for a solid surface countertop business in Denver and decided to make a jump to start the granite business. With only seven employees to begin with, the company put its focus on technology and production processes that would lead to growth and putting out top-quality products.
Within just two years of opening its doors, Front Range was able to make its first major equipment purchase in the form of a Park Industries Tru Edge line polisher. “Our business has grown over the years and technology has played an enormous part of our success. Park Industries has been an excellent partner since our first purchase to our most recent purchases in 2018 of two Titan CNC machines,” said Pearce, president
of the company. “We currently operate three Park Industries Fusion 4245 Sawjets, six Park Titan CNCs, and a Park Industries Saber 5-axis CNC Bridge Saw. Without the investment in automation and process, our growth capabilities would have been greatly reduced.”
However, the ability to invest in that amount of high-quality, high-production machinery didn’t happen overnight. The company worked hard and expanded multiple times to get where it is today. “In 2007 Front Range started back into the solid surface business to support our builders and box store customers,” explained Pearce, “and in 2012 we made an acquisition of a postform laminate countertop business to round out our assortment and to better service our customer base.”
Measuring, cutting and design technologies have all been consistently upgraded at Front Range, so the entire process is digital, more efficient and profitable. In 2010, Front Range
Starting in 2001 with just a 2,500-sq.-ft. shop, Front Range Stone now has two locations, including this 31,000-sq.-ft. hard surfaces shop.
While the company originally started out fabricating only granite, over the years quartz surfacing projects, such as this beautiful island fabricated from Coffee Brown Silestone, has become 65 to 70 percent of the hard surfacing work Front Range Stone handles.
Stone went through the NSI Accreditation process, and was the first fabricator in Colorado to earn that distinction, which provides guidelines for fabricators on financial aptitude, shop safety/OSHA regulations, and fabrication and installation standards.
“The shop’s advanced technology allows us to offer a quick turn-around time from the day of template/measure for all product lines,” explained Pearce. “Front Range Stone also has the ability to show our customers how their countertop project will look before we cut it with our automated process, giving them an exact picture of the finished product.” All of these things have led the company to be one of the largest fabricators in the state, with customers covering its entirety. The business has more than 150 employees today and now operates out of two facilities in Englewood: a 31,000-sq.-ft. hard surfaces shop and a 20,000-sq.-ft. solid surface and laminate facility.
Part of the company’s success can be attributed to its willingness to meet customer demands in whatever form that takes, as well as utilizing various B2B pathways to market.
“From the beginning we have believed the more products we can fabricate and install, the better connection we have with all of our customers,” said Pearce.
As such, the company now offers granite and other natural stone, quartz surfacing, solid surface, compact surfaces, recycled materials and laminate. It also offers tear-out and plumbing disconnection and reconnection services as value-added options.
While hard surfaces remain the company’s top products, with it producing and installing on average 38,500 sq. ft. per month, 65 to 70 percent is now quartz surfacing. “Quartz continues to drive the hard surface market,” said Pearce. “Our largest suppliers of quartz
In 2007 Front Range started back into the solid surface business to support builders and box store customers, as is evidenced by this finely-crafted Corian© island, and in 2012 made an acquisition of a postform laminate business. Today it has a 20,000-sq.-ft. solid surface and laminate facility, separate from its hard surfaces shop.
products are Cosentino, LG Hausys and Cambria.”
The company also produces and installs 7,000 sq. ft. of solid surface and 6,250 sq. ft. of laminate on average each month as well. Pearce estimates that solid surface is
historically between 12 and 15 percent of the company’s total revenue, whereas laminate represents about 8 percent.
Front Range Stone also diversifies the ways it goes to market, handling both residential and commercial projects, with the latter
While at first only fabricating granite, Front Range Stone has grown to fabricate all of the major surfacing materials, including marble, soapstone, quartz surfacing, solid surface, compact surfaces, recycled materials and laminate.
representing roughly 25 to 30 percent of its overall business. “We service all segments of the market including kitchen and bath designers, millworks, architects, engineers, builders, general contractors and big box stores,” explained Pearce.
By making sure the company is diversified in both its product offerings and customer types, it helps to ensure that it is not reliant too heavily on any one segment of the industry. The variety of products and services also helps to keep its customers happy and coming back as a one-stop location for all of their surfacing needs. However, the company also relies on honing its skills and providing quality products to keep the pipeline of projects full.
When asked about the company’s philosophy for success, Pearce said, “We have always excelled by delivering a quality product on time, which is supported by a very specific scheduling process to ensure on-time production and delivery/installation. We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and quality craftsmanship.”
Pearce attributes some of the successes the company has had in maintaining excellence to networking and information sharing efforts. “I have always found being involved in industry organizations a huge necessity to ongoing learning and growth of the business. I am fortunate to be a member of The Artisan Group, Rockheads, ISFA and NSI – all of these have provided many platforms and relationships to share best practices,” he expounded. “Get involved with industry groups and don’t be afraid to discuss key performance indicators with others and strive for improvement every day.”
He also had some thoughts on the pandemic and the current economic environment,
The company has driven growth by taking advantage of advanced technology, and today has three Park Industries Fusion 4245 Sawjets, six Park Titan CNCs, and a Park Industries Saber 5-axis CNC Bridge Saw.
saying, “We all went through a gut check in March not knowing what the business climate was going to put us all through; we have been fortunate that we have seen a continued demand in all of our business segments. I am optimistic that the market will strengthen as we go through the remainder of the year. Trends with new home sales, as well as remodeling projects at this point look positive as we move towards 2021.
“I feel we need to continue to be more relevant via online opportunities,” added Pearce. This is why, in the wake of the uncertainty that does exist, Front Range Stone has invested in its website. This seems to be an ongoing trend during a time when people are more likely to conduct research and make purchasing decisions based on information available online vs. in person. Pearce said the business has partnered with other various leading-edge tech companies in the industry to make online transactions easier, allow web-based project quoting, and reviewing the slab and even remnant inventories online.
When asked what advice he might offer to
other fabricators, Pearce said, “If you aren’t growing you are dying; never be complacent in the pursuit of improvement and greatness for your business.” With the intelligent moves the company has made over the years to get to the level it is at today, it is certainly fair to believe when things return to normalcy, whatever that may look like, Front Range
Stone will still be here going strong and ready to take on whatever comes its way.
For more information on Front Range Stone, contact Brad Pearce by email at brad@frontrangestone. com or phone at (303) 761-4257, or visit www. denvergranitecountertop.com.
Editor Kevin Cole can be reached at kevin@isfanow. org.
Some engineered stone companies have been working to tackle issues related to sustainability. Their use of renewable bio-resins that are UV-stable, better allow for their use in outdoor applications, such as this kitchen fabricated from Diresco quartz.
By Paul Max Le Pera and Jessica McNaughton
Since the early 2000s, the engineered stone (quartz surfacing) industry has experienced positive, profitable and prolific growth, globally. Relatively speaking, quartz surfacing embraces many attributes that continue to fuel its popularity and specification. That said, the category has also undergone some severe challenges in recent years, necessitating a sort of renaissance to ensure its sustainability.
Charles Darwin said, “In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.” This statement essentially refers to the No. 1 skill of survival – adaptation. It seems that living and being reside on a fluid foundation. That is to say, just when you think you are rooted in place, the medium around you begins to move, shift and mutate. Inaction can be as deadly as wrong action, and therefore those businesses who are constantly taking the pulse of cultural norms, personal values and technologies are those best poised to adapt when the underlying current of being begins to shift and, it indeed has. We are beginning to see a 21st century renaissance and this bodes very well for not only the quartz industry but for all of the surfacing categories.
The Renaissance was a period in history marking the transition from the Middle Ages to Modernity and was a time marked by genius and notable change. Cultural norms, values and even technology underwent sustainable reformation fueled by rejuvenation.
Now take a look at 2020, a new decade launched with nearly unprecedented instability: pandemic, potentially life-changed elections, geo-political tensions, unemployment and racial tensions, just to name a few. The concurrence of these significant dynamics has, for many, led to an ever-present feeling that the global tide of Darwinism is shifting again.
That said, we know that change is woven into the fabric of the human race, and the only thing we can be certain will not change is the fact that everything will eventually change. This
brings us back to the point that adaptation is the top survival skill, and that applies to not only animals, but also businesses.
We can be highly encouraged by several organizations within the surfacing industry that are adjusting their rudders as industry currents shift. Many firms are making a distinct effort to embrace sustainability, a movement that has been re-energized and is rapidly gaining increased global attention. The term essentially focuses on finding greener alternatives so as not to deplete natural resources and whose connotation is simple: finding ways to do things that last.
Engineered stone/quartz surfacing, with its continued growth in popularity among specifiers, such as architects, designers and even homeowners, is not immune from a host of changing conditions that require adaptation. Prime among these are the hefty tariffs that have been placed on Chinese quartz, ailing global economies and the emergence, or arguably the re-emergence, of engineered stone’s greatest hazard, silicosis. With these factors at the forefront of the product category’s challenges, it is most certainly experiencing a fluid foundation
The use of newer bio-resins that are free of cobalt allow for the easier development of complex veined patterns when used in quartz surfacing.
shift, necessitating sustainable adaptation. This adaptation will come from numerous avenues with the market ultimately being the judge of what will last.
First among the challenges quartz surfacing has been facing are the anti-dumping and countervailing duties placed on imports from China. These tariffs range as high as 500 percent, making the abundant supply available there far less attractive. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing. While for a short time in 2019 it may have had a slight effect on the availability from some suppliers, ultimately it helped drive the start-up of more lines in North America. This not only created jobs in more local economies to help defer the economic downturn in the industry, but it also lessened the carbon footprint caused by shipping material from such long distances. There are now more quartz surfacing production lines operating in North America than ever before.
Additionally, resins that are used in the formulation of engineered stone are most often petroleum based, thereby helping to deplete finite natural resources. Also, some of the resins used may be difficult to recycle or dispose of in a sustainable fashion.
A larger issue that seems to be playing a role within engineered stone circles is silicosis, a lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of crystalline silica, often referred to as respirable crystalline silica. Tragically, there is currently no known cure. Acute, chronic or accelerated cases can lead to lung cancer, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other dangerous breathing disorders for which the best current hope is to manage the symptoms, but eradication or reversal is not an option.
Silicosis has been known about for decades and is not endemic to the fabrication of engineered stone, and yet because of the high percentage of quartz within the product, the hazard is significant and the risks are very real. Classified as a human carcinogen in 2000, crystalline silica dust has been found in various other products, such as natural stone, concrete, ceramic and brick.
Now a global issue and arguably gaining momentum, the current of change in managing silicosis is a very hot topic. Respirable
crystalline silica mitigation/elimination is a constant source of study, innovation and enforcement for machine and tool manufacturers and shop owners alike. However, consistent with the sustainability movement, there may be some engineered stone formulation alternatives to mitigate, or possibly eliminate the respirable silica hazard.
When it comes to sustainability and engineered stone there are opportunities to modify the formulation to be eco-friendlier. As mentioned above, there are two primary areas. One is in the resin used in its manufacture and the other is the crystalline silica content.
At the highest level, we are seeing innovations from the resin companies, such as INEOS Composites. They have unsaturated polyester resins that are made from renewable resources instead of finite resources, meaning they replace the petroleum-based resins with bio-based raw materials without affecting the physical or handling properties of the resin. Their Envirez resins were among the first on the market in the category. INEOS was also one of the first movers on Cobalt-Free Technology, which became increasingly important when the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) was looking to classify cobalt salts as carcinogens and reproductive toxicants. Most resin systems recommend cobalt salts in order to get a proper cure in a quartz slab. INEOS introduced a cobalt-free technology that gets the same degree of curing in the slab without issues. Also, since cobalt is dark in color, the removal of it allows for better color control, enabling better veining patterns and even translucency in slabs.
The GEOS resin-based recycled glass surface shown here uses larger, terrazzo-like recycled glass aggregates instead of quartz helping lower the amount of crystalline silica versus other engineered stones.
As far as innovations in quartz products themselves, there are several brands on the market that have started to pivot and adopt more sustainable practices.
Diresco, a Belgian company founded by a father and son team in 2003, was an early pioneer and adopter of the Bio-UV resin technology. Diresco recognized that a better bio-based resin was needed, and the company created one using readily renewable plantbased sources instead of petroleum. The resin is highly UV stable, allowing for a broader range of applications for Diresco, which combines the resin with quartz to create a variety of design options from traditional quartz to more veined and terrazzo looking styles. Diresco reclaims and recycles all water used in its manufacturing
process, generates its own electricity through wind and solar technologies, and because of the nature of the Bio-UV resin, all manufacturing byproduct waste is repurposed for soil control and road construction throughout Belgium rather than being sent to landfills. In addition, Diresco can be recycled back into production and used as new particulate in its Terrazzo line.
Sustonable, an engineered stone manufactured in Turkey, opts for a recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) binder, making the
material 15 to 25 percent recycled content. It is also 100 percent recyclable. The material is thermoformable as well, making it somewhat of a hybrid between standard quartz and solid surface. The company claims it is 50 percent stronger than composite stone, and is offered in 6mm, 8mm and 1cm thicknesses. Unlike other products, Sustonable is formed from a continuous extrusion process, which is said to reduce waste versus batch processes, and any waste that is generated can be recycled back into the process. The product is designed to be less brittle than some of its contemporaries,
The recently released Obsidiana product from Compac (pictured here in Volcano Pearl) has tackled the issue of silicosis head-on by largely exchanging the use of crystalline silica with amorphous silica, whose dust does not cause adverse health problems. The product contains less than 7 percent crystalline silica, drastically decreasing the chance of silicosis from the fabrication process. It is made using 100 percent recycled glass and minerals as well as UV-stable bio-resin, and is also 100 percent recyclable.
which makes cutting and transporting it easier and allows the use of thinner materials without the drawback of breakage caused by impacts.
The recently released Obsidiana product from Compac, which is manufactured in Spain, also uses the Bio-UV resin mentioned previously. Obsidiana has tackled the issue of silicosis by using amorphous silica instead of crystalline silica. Amorphous silica, unless contaminated with crystalline silica, does not pose the health risks associated with crystalline silica. Obsidiana claims to be both recycled and recyclable and
uses up to 100 percent recycled glass and minerals in its composition with a sustainable manufacturing process as well. The product contains less than 7 percent crystalline silica, decreasing the chance of silicosis from the fabrication process. The company claims that the product cuts 30 percent faster than standard quartz, and there is no inherent tension in the material like there is with many ceramics. Thicknesses range from 7mm to 30mm. Obsidiana was recognized with the Sustainability Award at KBIS 2020.
While the focus of this article has been the changes that have been taking place in the quartz surfacing, similarities can be found within the recycled glass category of hard surfaces, which are akin to engineered stone.
Curava is an engineered stone that contains approximately 30 percent quartz. This is significantly less than many quartz surfaces, which typically contain in the range of 90 percent quartz, meaning it contains a lesser amount of crystalline silica. The remainder of its make-up is about 60 percent post-consumer and postindustrial recycled glass and roughly 10 percent resin binder.
GEOS, which is another resin-based recycled glass surface is a product that uses a polymerbased resin with larger, terrazzo-like recycled glass aggregates instead of quartz. This helps lower the amount of crystalline silica versus other engineered stones. GEOS has recently revamped its color line, is 55 to 75 percent recycled glass by weight, and is available in both 2cm and 3cm thicknesses.
IceStone, which is made in Brooklyn, N.Y., from 100 percent recycled glass and cement instead of quartz, recently improved upon its petroleumfree recipe. New IceStone incorporates process steps that improve the performance of the product, retaining its sustainability story, but also increasing its stain resistance and durability. This improved version also is UV stable, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
There has definitely been some visionary restrategizing in the engineered stone arena, and it will be interesting to see how the market will embrace these innovations. The omnipresent increasing pressure for business and industry to embrace renewable energy and sustainable practices will only add to the options and best practices here.
Quartz and all other engineered Surfaces are projected to increase in market share as their formulations can be adjusted to meet the growing practical and social needs. The renaissance we are witnessing in the surfacing industry is being heavily influenced by the growing sustainability movement, and whether it is a new surfacing category, a variant of an existing product, or a “new and improved” formulation, change can be a springboard for growth. Those who are able to pivot and adapt will be those more firmly rooted when the tide once again ebbs.
Jessica McNaughton, a former ISFA board member, is president of CaraGreen, a curator and distributor of best-in-class sustainable materials based in Raleigh, N.C. CaraGreen offers healthy alternatives to traditional building materials and serves as an educator on industry issues that have a human or environmental health impact, with several education courses on the latest green building standards and trends in the industry. She can be reached via email at jessica@caragreen.com or on the web at www.caragreen.com
Paul Max Le Pera is president of Global Surfacing Alliance LLC, a global marketing, business consulting and product sourcing firm specializing in proprietary products and disruptive technologies. He is also on the ISFA Board of Directors and can be reached at PMax@ GlobalSurfacingAlliance.com
From the Desk of Nancy Busch, Executive Director
“The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee
It is Friday morning of my first week serving ISFA. As you can imagine, my head is filled with learning, teaching, watching and dreaming. However, I had to dig deep to find inspiration and focus on what to share in my very first message to you. In fact, it takes laser-like focus to be successful at anything.
Our previous executive director, Amy Miller, wrote to you about unplugging and giving the gift of your presence to others last December. She has positively set the stage for me with that message, as with much of her great work for ISFA and I would like to expand on that. Taking time for personal focus is also critical. I have always used the analogy with my children that when you are preparing for a flight the attendant instructs you in the event of emergency to put the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others. This is also true of our focus. Without having true focus on your plans, ideas and dreams, how can you communicate them to benefit others?
Our world is full of distractions, which are rarely considered positive, and the year 2020 has certainly added many layers to that. How many times did you miss something important because of being distracted? How many accidents occur because someone is distracted? Banners, popup ads, newsfeeds, and the list goes on; they are constantly directed at influencing us. When was the last time you went an entire day without seeing any news? It always seeps in everyday, even without watching a newscast. When you break it down, we are bombarded without really knowing it. When was the last time you unplugged to be in the presence of just yourself? Spending time finding ways to connect with yourself is critical to the mission of being present for the needs of others.
The average human has an eight-second attention span – less than that of a goldfish, according to a 2015 study by Microsoft. I know we can do better. Being solely focused seems to slow down time, which then allows us to
accomplish more. In bull riding, for example, eight seconds are all that are required to qualify. The intensity of risk gives perspective to just how much can occur in only a few moments of focus. You can bet there is not any multitasking going on during that ride!
Having grit, determination and courage all require focus. I encourage everyone to consider ways of finding the focus required each day so you can complete your mission, too. Taking even a few seconds for yourself can help you clear your head. Following are some of my favorite ways for reducing the clutter:
■ Put away anything electronic
■ When you are in front of the computer, reduce the number of windows on the screen.
■ Disable pop-ups and alarms.
■ Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails.
■ Be mindful of multitasking.
■ Leave yourself reminders to focus.
■ Write in a journal daily.
■ Go outside.
■ Exercise.
■ Make a to-do list for play.
■ Create something.
■ Give yourself some grace.
It has been quite a week. When I quiet everything going on inside, I know I am in the right place at the right time for the mission. Focus has given me the courage to step outside of my comfort zone, and I am here to serve you.
Looking forward, I am excited how we can focus, both individually and collectively, to accomplish more for our community.
Nancy Busch, ISFA Executive Director nancy@isfanow.org
Because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the pandemic and the instruction by the CDC to avoid travel where possible, all ISFA events planned for the remainder of 2020 will either be moved to online platforms or have been put on hold until the best authorities have deemed it safe to travel again. As such, our training and networking events have been rescheduled as follows:
Maker’s Monday Meetings w/ Virtual Shop Tours
Sponsored by Park Industries
Zoom Conference
Every Monday 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmondaymeetings
Gen 2 Event
Sponsored by Moraware and BACA Systems
Virtual Meeting Fall
Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces
Training & Certification Event
Sponsored by Park Industries, LPI, Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI
Virtual Event
Sept. 29-30
ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting
Sponsored by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces
Virtual Event
Nov. 3-6
For additional information and registration options, please visit www. isfanow.org or email nancy@isfanow.org.
Nancy Busch was recently hired to serve as the Executive Director of ISFA and officially began her role on August 3.
Previously, Busch was a sales manager for Willis Supply, a North American distributor of world-class building materials including Corian® Solid Surface, Corian® Quartz, Arpa High Pressure Laminate, FENIX NTM®, FENIX NTA® and Artisan sinks. She managed a sales team that covered the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Hawaii, earning several awards during her tenure. She has also been involved with the Architectural Woodworking Institute’s Washington Chapter, was a past Co-Chair of Programs for the Puget Sound Chapter of the NKBA.
“Nancy has real-world experience with the products and processes used by our members,” said ISFA Vice President Steve Mast. “She is a real champion for the industry, is enthusiastic and has expressed great interest in serving our membership further advancing the goals of the association. The ISFA Board of Directors is confident that she will perform well in the role.”
Having worked 14 years at Willis Supply, with increasingly larger and more diverse responsibilities, Busch has proven herself as a gogetter with a well-established knowledge base. Prior to her work with Willis, she was an independent kitchen & bath designer, earning an NKBA Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD) certification. She also studied fine art and design at Pacific Lutheran University after earning an Associates of Arts & Science degree at Pierce College.
Busch accepted the position that was recently vacated by Amy Miller who served in the role since 2017 and left to become CEO of a charitable organization in her home town in Ohio. “Amy did an amazing job during her time as ISFA Director,” added Mast. “We wish her the best and she has gracefully agreed to help Nancy transition into the Executive Director position.”
“I’m excited to begin my work with ISFA and carry on the advancements it has made over the past several years,” said Busch. “I believe my background in distribution will allow me to roll up my sleeves and quickly get involved in serving the organization and its members.”
ISFA Executive Director Nancy Busch can be reached at nancy@isfanow.org.
ISFA teamed up this year with the Natural Stone Institute and Daltile in an effort to improve safety in fabricating products that contain silica. ISFA is now in the process of sending ISFA Fabricator Members (new or renewing) credit card sized flash drives that contain Silica Training Kits sponsored by Daltile and courtesy of ISFA and NSI which highlight OSHA recommended best practices. Because of the critical nature of the potential dangers facing fabricators, the two organizations teamed up and Daltile agreed to help with the costs involved in creating and distributing the programming.
Workers involved in manufacturing, finishing and installing natural and manufactured stone countertop products in fabrication shops and during in-home finishing/installation are at risk of exposure to hazardous airborne crystalline silica and lifelong health consequences.
OSHA’s new Respirable Crystalline Silica regulations have stringent requirements for protecting the 2.3 million workers who are exposed to this hazard at work.
The flash drive training kits that all ISFA Fabricator Members are
in the process of receiving have downloadable documents and training that includes the following programs:
■ Silicosis: An Industry Guide to Awareness and Prevention
■ Silica Exposure Standard and OSHA Compliance
■ Toolbox Talk: What is Crystalline Silica?
■ Toolbox Talk: Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention
■ Implementing a Silica Exposure Control Plan for Your Company
■ How To Use the OSHA Voluntary Inspection Program to Monitor Silica Exposure
■ A Sample Silica Exposure Control Plan for General Industry
■ An OSHA Inspection Planning Checklist
■ Creating a Safety Program –Where To Start
■ Basics of OSHA Compliance
■ No Place for Complacency
■ Onsite OSHA Consultation
■ Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment
For more information contact carol@ isfanow.org.
To join ISFA or renew your membership, visit www.ISFAnow.org or call the ISFA office at (888) 599-ISFA.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR
Because of the and continued uncertainty as to a timeline for safe travel and group gatherings caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, ISFA has rolled back its meeting schedule and will conduct all meetings, at least through the end of 2020, via online platforms. The association is working on redesigning its events to fit with a web-based agenda.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, ISFA has held Maker’s Monday Meetings via Zoom to give ISFA members a chance to share information and best practices during the pandemic. The event has grown to now include regular Virtual Shop Tours, with members sharing walk-throughs of their businesses and answering questions. The meetings are Mondays at 2 p.m. EST and are sponsored by Park Industries. Anyone is welcome to join the live events, and the nearly dozen previous events have all been recorded and are available online to all ISFA members. For more information, or to have your shop featured in a shop tour, visit www.isfanow.org/fabricator-tours/ or email nancy@isfanow. org.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR
ISFA’s Gen2 Leadership Roundtable is designed to provide education and networking opportunities for companies that are currently run by 2nd or 3rd generation owners. During this program, participants receive education from speakers on topics specific to 2nd generation needs, and have the opportunity to network and associate with peers from within the fabrication industry that are also within their 2nd/3rd generation. A virtual event is in the works for this fall and is sponsored by Moraware and BACA Systems. For more information, visit www.isfanow.org/generation-2/.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Each year, ISFA awards the Mike Nolan Scholarship to an individual seeking education for a career in the skilled trades dealing with the decorative surfacing industry, cabinetry or carpentry. The scholarship is awarded in honor of Mike Nolan, one of ISFA’s dear friends, a multi-term board member and former fabrication trainer and ISFA Education Director.
The growing countertop category that includes porcelain, sintered stone and compact surfaces is one in which there is great interest. On Sept. 29 and 30, a virtual training event will be held to offer specific insight into fabricating a variety of these surfaces, including products offered by Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI, all of which are sponsoring the event in addition to Park Industries and LPI. You can help ensure your fabrication company’s future success by becoming an expert in these products today. More information and registration details are available at www.isfanow.org under the “Events” tab.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
The ISFA Annual Conference will be a four-day virtual event from Nov. 3 to 6, with live webinars, educational speakers, virtual networking events, new product introductions, speaker panels, the annual award ceremony and much more. Participants will be able to attend some events live and check out other portions at their leisure. The event is sponsored this year by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces, and those who register will receive swag boxes in advance of the event courtesy of the sponsors. For more information visit www.isfanow. org, email nancy@isfanow.org or call the ISFA office at (888) 599-ISFA.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
ISFA PO Box 627 Ingomar, PA 15127 (888) 599-ISFA www.isfanow.org
Executive Director
Operations Manager
Carol Wilhite (412) 487-3207 carol@isfanow.org
The deadline for applications has been extended because of the uncertainty in college and trade school schedules caused by the pandemic. The winner of the $1,200 scholarship and free one-year membership in ISFA can use the funds to help pay for any expenses involved with the cost of education related to the skilled trades. To apply or for more information, email info@isfanow.org or visit www.isfanow.org.
Nancy Busch (253) 691-0169 nancy@isfanow.org
Director of Communications
Kevin Cole
Magazine/Website
Publisher & Editor (815) 721-1507 kevin@isfanow.org
Account Representative Paul Wisnefski (262) 498-4184 wisnefski@sbcglobal.net
Program Coordinator Amy Kyriazis (412) 487-3207 amy@isfanow.org
Solid Surface Fabrication Trainer
Chris Pappenfort (417) 598-2390 chris@isfanow.org
Quartz/Stone Fabrication Trainer
Fred Hueston (321) 514-6845 fred@isfanow.org
Nominations for the 2020 ISFA Awards open Sept. 1, with all members receiving a nomination ballot via email. These annual awards are given to those in the industry that stand out as the very best. Once the nominations are gathered, a ballot will be sent out and voting on them will follow immediately. The winners will be announced at the ISFA Annual Conference and Meeting, to be held virtually this year, Nov. 3 to 6. Only ISFA members are eligible for nomination except for the ISFA Hall of Fame. The award categories are as follows:
The Fabricator of the Year Award is awarded to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year has best exemplified the ISFA ideals of quality, innovation, character and exemplary service to ISFA and/or the decorative surfacing industry, with overall excellence.
The Innovator Award is for the member firm or individual who goes outside the box to create a product or system that enhances the life or elevates the role of the surface fabricator.
The Associate of the Year Award is given to an associate member company that in the past year has best exemplified the role of servicing the needs of fabricator member companies, and who has best supported ISFA in all activities.
The Envision Award is given to the manufacturer member that excels in creating something imaginative and special for the surfacing industry.
The ISFA Hall of Fame Award is given to the individual who has, in the course of his/ her career, made significant contributions to the decorative surfacing industry, and has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the ideals of ISFA.
For more information on the ISFA Annual Awards call ISFA at (888) 599-ISFA or email nancy@ isfanow.org.
Steve Mast
Vice President
Precision Countertops
26200 S.W. 95th Ave. Ste. 303 Wilsonville, OR 97070 (503) 660-3023
Steve.m@precisioncountertops. com www.precisioncountertops.com
Kelley Montana Treasurer Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing
70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 (707) 442-5918
kmontana@humtop.com www.humtop.com
Austin Maxwell Secretary Maxwell Countertops
324 S. Plum St. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2848
austin@maxwellcounters.com www.maxwellcounters.com
Jim Callaghan
Associate Member Representative and Executive Committee Member GranQuartz
3950 Steve Reynolds Blvd. Norcross, GA 30093 (248) 660-3291 jcallaghan@granquartz.com www.granquartz.com
Mike Langenderfer Director The Countertop Shop 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 mike@countertopshop.net www.countertopshop.net
Joe Duszka Director Carolina Custom Surfaces 100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 (336) 215-5518
Joe@carolinacustom surfaces. com
Laura Grandlienard Director ROCKin’teriors 230 Hampton Woods Ln., Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27607 (919) 577-0207 laura@rockinteriors.com
Rodrigo Velazquez Director INDEKO Blvd los charros 1500 Col. Belenes Industrial Nte Zapopan 45150 Mexico 52 331-028-7863 rodrigo@weareindeko.com
Eric Tryon Director
Founding Member of Rockheads Group 845 McFarland Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30004 (678) 614-7111
tryonea@gmail.com www.rockheadsusa.com
Joe Connolly
Associate Member Representative SASSO 220 N. Smith St. Ste. 414 Palatine, IL 60067 (224) 200-8004 jconnollysassousa@ gmail.com www.sassousa.com
Paul “Max” Le Pera Associate Member Representative Global Surfacing Alliance 106 Melrich Rd. Cranbury, NJ 08512 (908) 358-5252 pmlp33@gmail.com
The ISFA Booster Club is a program comprised of ISFA members committed to growing ISFA membership, benefits and programs. Each club member makes a financial contribution and participates in a quarterly conference call led by Executive Director Nancy Busch and Vice President Steve Mast. During the calls new ideas for projects and programs to benefit ISFA members and the industry are discussed, as well as timelines for implementation. Those interested in joining can contact nancy@ isfanow.org for more information.
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. 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
ALASKA
Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503
907-793-3047
www.cookinlethousing.org
Vision Construction
17 Adak Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-479-0380 www.visionunited.com
ARIZONA
Classy Closets Etc. Inc.
7073 W. Linda Ln. Chandler, AZ 85226
480-710-1190 www.classyclosets.com
ARKANSAS
Qualserv
7400 S. 28th St. Ft. Smith, AR 72908
479-459-5892
www.qualservsolutions.com
American Epoxy Scientific
500 E. 16th St. Mountain Home, AR 72653
870-701-5015 www.stichco.com
CALIFORNIA
America’s Dream HomeWorks 7115 Watt Ave. Ste. 100 North Highlands, CA 95660 916-502-7789
www.dreamhomeworks.com
American Stone Fabricator 9489 Opal Ave. Mentone, CA 92359 909-918-5528 www.americanstonefabricator.com
Artistry Stone Surfaces Inc. 81824 Trader Place, Bldg. D Indio, CA 92201
760-777-2625 www.artistrystonesurfaces.com
Carrara Marble Company of America Inc. 15939 Phoenix Dr. Industry, CA 91745 626-961-6010
www.carrara.com
Fischer Tile & Marble 1800 23rd St. Sacramento, CA 95816 916-452-1426
www.fischertile.com
Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing
70 W. 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501
707-442-5918
www.humtop.com
Naresh Tammabatula 1750 Stokes St. 71 San Jose, CA 95126 510-324-6588
Pacifica Wholesale
Tile and Stone
620 E. Ball Rd. Anaheim, CA 92805 310-497-3511
www.pacificastone.com
Plastic Tops, Inc. 521 E. Jamie Ave. La Habra, CA 90631 714-738-8128
www.plastictops.com
Quarry House Inc.
217 San Anselmo Ave. San Anselmo, CA 90205 415-482-9094
www.quarryhouseinc.com
The Countertop Factory 2470 E. Coronado St. Anaheim, CA 92806 562-944-2450
www.thecountertopfactory.net
COLORADO
Front Range Stone
2195 S. Raritan St. Englewood, CO 80110
303-761-4257
www.frontrangestone.com
RW Woodworks LLC 1605 Colorado Ave. Canon City, CO 81212 719-679-7790 www.rwwoodworks.com
The Top Shop Inc. 3300 E. 43rd Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-996-6026 www.tshopinc.com
DELAWARE
Troy Granite Inc. 711 Interchange Blvd. Newark, DE 19711 302-292-1750 www.troygranite.com
FLORIDA
Beverin Solid Surface 1108 Palmetto Ave. Lehigh Acres, FL 33972 239-368-9444 www.beverin.com
Delorie Countertops & Doors Inc.
2140 N.W. 18th St. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-970-7661 www.deloriectd.com
Jackson Stoneworks 11111 S.E. 72nd Gainsville, FL 32641 352-372-6600 www.jacksonllc.com
Mill-Rite Woodworking Co. 6401 47th St. N. Pinellas Park, FL 33781 727-528-6305 www.mill-rite.com
NSM Florida Enterprises, LLC 1050 Central Park Dr. Sanford, FL 32771 407-774-0676 www.nsmotif.com
Sterling Mfg. 8293 Consumer Circle Sarasota, FL 34240 941-955-8787 www.sterlingmfg.com
GEORGIA
Atlanta Kitchen Inc. 196 Rio Circle Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3220 www.atlanta-kitchen.com
Counter Fitters LLC 1026 Lynes Ave. Savannah, GA 31415 912-231-0103 www.counterfitterssav.com
Countersync 2014 Westside Ct. Augusta, GA 30907 706-828-7544 www.countersync.net
Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc. 2772 Simpson Circle Norcross, GA 30071 770-242-8469 craftmarkcountertops.com
Heft Enterprises 9138 Wheat St. Covington, GA 30014 678-342-9400 www.heftcabinets.com
Premier Surfaces 845 McFarland Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-614-7111 www.premiersurfaces.com
Stone Center 1325 Oakbrook Dr. Ste. C Norcross, GA 30093 770-446-5155 www.stonecenteratlanta.com
HAWAII
Firerock Fabrication 59-518A Alapio Rd. Haleiwa HI 96712 607-243-8618
Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc. 1602-B Auiki St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-3775
Montage Decor LLC 94-117 Malakeke Pl. Unit 102 Waipahu, HI 96797 808-200-7868 www.montage-decor.com
ILLINOIS
4-D Construction of IL, Inc. 1107 E. Cemetery Ave. Chenoa, IL 61726 815-867-2196 www.4-Dconstruction.com
Custom Marble Inc.*** PO Box 306 Millstadt, IL 62260 618-476-1345 www.custommarble.net
Maxwell Counters Inc. PO Box 234 Farmer City, IL 61824 309-928-2848
www.maxwellcounters.com
New Age Surfaces 1237 Naperville Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-226-0011
Pierce Laminated Products Inc. 2430 N. Court St. Rockford, IL 61103 815-968-9651 www.piercelaminated.com
Ravenswood Studio Inc. 6900 N. Central Park Ave. Lincolnwood, IL 60712 707-334-6851 www.ravenswoodstudio.com
Solid Surface Creations Inc.
403 S. Sycamore Villa Grove, IL 61956 217-832-8207 www.ssctops.com
Stalwart Systems
7797 N. Caldwell Ave. Niles, IL 60714 847-972-1193 www.stalwartsystemsusa.com
Stonecrafters
430 W. Wegner Rd. Lakemoor, IL 60051 815-363-8730 www.stonecrafters.com
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.
The Countertop Factory Midwest***
869 S. Rte. 53 Addison, IL 60101 630-606-8055 www.tcfmidwest.com
INDIANA
A. I. A. Countertops LLC
201 S. Huntington St. Syracuse, IN 46567 574-457-2018 www.aiacountertops.com
Hartson-Kennedy
Cabinet Top Co., Inc.
522 W. 22nd St. Marion, IN 46953 800-388-8144 www.hartson-kennedy.com
Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.
711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401 812-824-6299 www.rakesolutions.com
IOWA
Solid Fabrications Inc.
2515 Murray St. Sioux City, IA 51111
712-255-5319 www.solidfab.com
StoneHouse Quartz & Granite
3901 100th St. Urbandale, IA 50322
515-512-5188 www.stonehousegranite.com
VT Industries
1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 712-368-4381 www.vtindustries.com
KENTUCKY
Granite America
1121 St. Louis Ave. Louisville, KY 40241 502-419-0713
Louisville Lumber & Millwork 1400 Lincoln Ave. Louisville, KY 40213 502-459-8710 www.louisvillelumber.com https://graniteamericausa.com/ louisville/
StoneMark Granite LLC
989 Logan St. Louisville, KY 40204 502-315-5100 www.stonemarkgranite.com
Surfaces Unlimited Inc. 1272 Hwy. 490 E. Bernstadt, KY 40729 606-843-6891 www.surfaces-unlimited.com
MAINE
Bangor Wholesale Laminates
355 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, ME 04401 207-945-5928 www.bangorwholesale laminates.com
Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc. 11 Collins Pond Rd. Windham, ME 04062 207-893-3445 www.getshad.com
MARYLAND
ASSI Fabricators LLC
11270 Old Baltimore Pike Beltsville, MD 20705
301-937-2800 www.assifab.com
Carefree Kitchens Inc. 2910 Strickland St. Baltimore, MD 21223
410-233-4900 www.carefreeindustries.com
Modular Concepts Inc. 54 Wilmon St. Chesapeake City, MD 20705 410-885-5960 www.modcoinc.com
SolidTops LLC
505 South St. Easton, MD 21601 410-819-0770 www.solidtops.com
MASSACHUSETTS
Discover Marble & Granite
4 Latti Farm Rd. Millbury, MA 01527
508-438-6900 www.discovermarble.com
Jack’s Custom Woodworking/JCW Countertops
3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 781-935-1907 www.jcwcountertops.com
Sharp Creative LLC
110 K St. South Boston, MA 02127 781-378-0001 www.sharpcreative.us
Sterling Surfaces
76 Leominster Rd.
Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-3321 www.sterlingsurfaces.com
Sterling-Miller Designs Inc. 1079 N. Montello St. Brockton, MA 02301
508-894-6999 www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com
Hard Rock Stone Works 44038 Phoenix Dr. Lake Orion, MI 48362 586-532-7763 www.hardrocstoneworks.com
Innovative Surface Works 23206 Commerce Dr. Farmington, MI 48335 734-261-3010 www.ISWrocksnow.com
MKD
106 E. Oliver Dr. Marshall, MI 49068 269-209-8198 www.mkdkitchens.com
Paxton Countertops & Showers PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 517-719-0146 www.paxtonsurfaces.com
Tile & Stone Works 12876 23 Mile Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48315 586-254-1234 www.tilenstone.com
Elegant Creations 1371 S. State St. Waseca, MN 56093 507-469-9692 www.elegantcreations.com
Innovative Surfaces Inc. 515 Spiral Blvd. Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1004
The Pinske Edge 119 Main St. Plato, MN 55370 320-238-2196 www.pinske-edge.com
MISSISSIPPI
Alexander Counterwrights 3803 Old Mobile Ave. Pascagoula, MS 39581 228-938-6484 www.alexandercounter wrights.com
MISSOURI
Premier Surfaces 4525 N.W. 41st St. Ste. 400 Kansas City, MO 64150 816-767-2075 www.premiersurfaces.com
MONTANA
BMC
3200 Hwy. 12 E. Helena, MT 59602 406-444-8721 www.buildwithBMC.com
Lincoln Laminating Inc. 5633 S. 49th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6009 www.lincolnlaminating.com
Lycos, Inc. 2445 Deer Park Blvd. Omaha, NE 68105 402-201-2283 www.lycosfinish.com
Stone Concepts, Inc. 10802 Sapp Brothers Dr. Omaha, NE 68138 865-523-0967 www.stoneconceptsomaha.com
NEVADA
Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund 6801 Placid St. Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-938-1111
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Montes Marble 11 Industrial Way Atkinson, NH 03811 207-671-2542 www.montesmarble.com
Rumford Stone Inc. 278 River Rd. Bow, NH 03304 603-224-9876 www.rumfordstone.com
NEW JERSEY
Marvic Corp. 2450 Lorio St. Union, NJ 07083 908-686-4340 www.countertopsofnj.com
New Jersey Stone*** 44 Fadem Rd. Springfield, NJ 07081 973-491-5454 https://newjerseystone.com
Spaulding Fabricators Inc. 1136 Industrial Pkwy. Brick, NJ 08724 732-840-4433 www.spauldingfabricators.com
NEW MEXICO
American Countertops PO Box 10482 Albuquerque, NM 87184 505-897-3141 www.americancountertopsonline.com
Jaynes Structures
2906 Broadway N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87107 505-344-8589 www.jaynescorp.com
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.
OGB Architectural Millwork
3711 Paseo del Norte Albuquerque, NM 87113 505-998-0000
www.ogb-am.com
NEW YORK
Granite and Marble Works Inc.
8 Commercial Park Dr. Wilton, NY 12831
518-857-9720
www.graniteandmarbleworks.com
Marker Systems Inc.
940 River Rd. North Tonawanda, NY 14120 716-695-1102
www.markersys.com
Modern Home Distributing PO Box 395 Nunda, NY 14517 585-468-2523
www.modernhomekitchen andbath.com
Penn Fabricators Inc.
30 Platinum Ct. Medford, NY 11763 631-205-0282
www.pennforcorian.com
Whispering Pines
Woodcraft LLC
4150 State Rte. 14 A Penn Yan, NY 14527
607-243-8618
NORTH CAROLINA
Atlantic Countertops
4250 Old Wake Forrest Rd. Raleigh, NC 27613 919-981-0163
www.atlanticcountertops.com
A Top Above The Rest 121 Wilkie St. Forest City, NC 28043 828-382-0174
BloomDay Granite & Marble 3810 Indiana Ave. Winston-Salem, NC 27105 336-414-0842 www.bloomdaygranite.com
Carolina Custom Surfaces*** 100 Landmark Dr. Greensboro, NC 27409 336-215-5518 www.carolinacustom surfaces.com
Carolina Stoneworx LLC 8313 Poole Rd. Knightdale, NC 27545 919-266-1011 www.carolinastoneworx.com
Coastal Countertops & Tile 1117 N. 20th St. Morehead City, NC 28557 252-247-0015
www.coastalcountertopsnc.com
Majestic Kitchen & Bath
104 Jeffrey Way Youngsville, NC 27596 919-376-5941 www.gomajestic.com
Metro Woodcrafters of NC, Inc. PO Box 669488 Charlotte, NC 28266-9488 704-394-9622 www.metrowoodcrafter.com
Onslow Stoneworks
1661 Hwy. 58 PO Box 1239 Swansboro, NC 28584 252-393-2457 www.onslowstoneworks.com
ROCKin’teriors
230 Hampton Woods Ln. Ste. 100 Raleigh, NC 27607 919-577-0207 www.rockinteriors.com
Stoneworks 18623 Northline Dr. Cornelius, NC 28031 704-936-8340 www.stoneworksltd.com
OHIO
Countertops by Nate 5372 Bedford St. Unit C Bedford Heights, OH 44146 216-314-8654
Cutting Edge Countertops Inc. 1300 Flagship Dr. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-9500 www.cectops.com
L. E. Smith Co.*** 1030 E. Wilson St. Bryan, OH 43506 888-537-6484 www.lesmith.com
Laminate Shop, Inc. PO Box 1218 Marietta, OH 45750 740-749-3536
The Countertop Shop LTD*** 9300 Airport Rd. Monclova, OH 43542 419-868-9101 www.countertopshop.net
Top Advantage Surfaces Inc. 12989 Market Ave. N. Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-2138 www.topadvantage.com
Top Designs Inc. 1700 Wall Rd. Wadsworth, OH 44281 330-334-5677 www.topdesignsinc.com
Top Shelf Laminated Products
400 Dietz Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-393-1289
Tower Industries 2101 Ninth St. S.W. Massillon, OH 44647 330-837-2216 www.towersurfaces.com
Crowley’s Granite & Quartz 10100 S.W. Herman Rd. Tualatin, OR 97062 503-850-2496
Nelson Tile and Stone 1875 N.E. Division St. Bend, OR 977701 503-943-9046 www.nelsontileandstone.com
Oregon State University 601 S.W. 35th St. Corvallis, OR 97333 www.oregonstate.edu
Precision Countertops Inc.*** PO Box 387 Wilsonville, OR 97070
503-692-6660
www.precisioncountertops.com
PENNSYLVANIA ASST
350 South St. McSherrystown, PA 17344
717-630-1251 www.asst.com
Advanced Surfaces Inc.
130 Plastics Rd. Corry, PA 16407
814-663-0369
Atlantic Custom Granite & Marble 3 Windemere Ct. York, PA 17402 717-244-3494 www.AtlanticCustomGranite.com
Eastern Surfaces
601 S. 10th St. Allentown, PA 18103 610-266-3121
www.easternsurfaces.com
Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories 2425 New Holland Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 717-656-2300
Indoor City Granite and Marble 1284 Loop Rd. Lancaster, PA 17601 717-368-5604 www.indoorcity.com
Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.
PO Box 41 Bernville, PA 19506
610-488-6213
www.kramershowerbases.com
Pence Countertops Inc.
124 Ellis Woods Rd. Pottstown, PA 19465 610-326-6609
www.pencecountertops.com
Pittsburgh Troy Granite 1060 484 Lowries Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-446-1060
www.troygranite.com
Rynone Mfg. Corp
297 Dominic Pace Industrial Pkwy. Sayre, PA 18840 570-888-5272
www.rynone.com
RHODE ISLAND Great In Counters 100 Whipple St. Providence, RI 02908 401-233-0666 www.greatincounters.com
SOUTH CAROLINA
Custom Architectural Solutions LLC (CAS) 218 Willowgreen Way Greer, SC 29651 864-501-9555
www.casgroups.com
SOUTH DAKOTA
DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co. 45753 237th St. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3707 www.soliddfc.com
Granite Accents, Inc. 2821 W. 6th St. PO Box 1111 Sioux Falls, SD 57109 605-338-4088 www.graniteacents.com
TENNESSEE
Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc. 1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101 Memphis, TN 38114 901-278-9626
www.alexandermarble andgranite.com Countertops of Memphis 301 W. Olive Ave. Memphis TN 38106 901-602-7115
www.countertopsofmemphis.com
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.
Creative Countertop Solutions Inc.
919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210
615-915-0718
www.creativecounter solutions.com
IntelliStone, LLC
115 Carr Ave. Franklin, TN 37064
615-790-4833 www.intellistone.com
J&M Cabinetry and Construction
301 Pannell Dr. Millington, TN 38053
910-596-3610
Kitchen Tops Inc.
1300 Ault Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914 865-523-0967 www.kitchentops.net
Alpha Granite
915 W. Howard Ln. Austin, TX 78753 505-814-5354 www.alphagraniteaustin.com
Cirrus Asset Management
5347 Spring Valley Rd. Dallas, TX 75254
661-857-0722 www.cirrusami.com
Classic Counter Tops
2325 Executive Dr. Garland, TX 75041
972-840-1234
Counterscapes, Inc.
2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676 www.counterscapes.com
Countertop Solutions LLC PO Box 82087 Houston, TX 77282 713-204-0080
Dirk Foster 921 Morton St. Mineral Wells, TX 76067 206-898-8163
Durcon 206 Allison Dr. Taylor, TX 76574 512-595-8054 www.durcon.com
Eframe Asrat
6807 Miller Shadow Sugarland, TX 77479
713-530-3673
Gecko Solid Surface
Solutions***
4630 Sinclair Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 210-227-3100 www.geckosss.com
Giovanni’s Granite and Marble 18886 IH 10 Vidor, TX 77772 409-554-5991 www.giovannisgranite.com
Gunckel Architectural Stoneworks, LLC
5085 Elm Creek Rd. Seguin, TX 78155 830-303-0688 www.gastonework.com
Legacy Granite and Marble 6214 Keyko St. Houston, TX 77041 832-834-7459
Legacy Stone 210 James St. Roanoke, TX 76262 817-345-7044 www.legacystonetx.com
New Stone Concepts 11311 Conroy Ln. Manchaca, TX 78652 512-851-3185 www.newstoneconcepts.com
Off Grid Builds PO Box 22 Barksdale, TX 78828 830-834-9878
offgridbuilds.lilserengeti.com
True Blue Granite 3626 Binz Engleman Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 210-281-5520 www.tbgranite.com
Uppercut Granite
1235 JC Ln. Pilot Point, TX 76258 940-765-3525
W.R. Watson Inc. 12902 Mula Ln. Stafford, TX 77477 281-495-3664 www.wrwatson.com
UTAH
Accent Countertops
4103 S. 500 W. Murray, UT 84123 801-867-9133 www.accentcountertops.com
Countertop Source
459 N. Old Hwy. 91 Ste. 1 Hurricane, UT 54737 435-210-4253 www.countertopsource.com
Plastic Specialties Inc. 1640 S. Redwood Rd. Salt Lake City, UT 84104 801-746-1212 www.psitops.com
Rock Tops 451 N. 1650 W Springville, UT 84663 385-685-9043 www.rocktopsutah.com
Valley View Granite
905 N. 2000 W. Tremont, UT 84337 435-452-1570 www.valleyviewgranite.com
Westwood Carpet and Tile 575 N. 3050 East St. George, UT 84790 435-313-9414
VERMONT
Vermont Solid Surface PO Box 602 852 Portland St. St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 802-535-4986
www.vermontsolidsurface.com
VIRGINIA
Ellis Page Co., LLC 10481 Colonel Ct. Manassas, VA 20110 703-346-9404 www.ellispageco.com
Metro Stone Works LLC 9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12 Manassas Park, VA 20111 703-396-866 www.metrostoneworks.com
Mid Atlantic Surfaces 2559 Turkey Creek Rd. Oilville, VA 23129 804-798-7462 www.midatlanticsurfaces.com
Surface Link Corp. 4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. A Chantilly, VA 20151 301-482-1717
www.surfacelinkcorp.com
WASHINGTON
Distinctive Tile & Stone 7009 Martin Way E. Olympia, WA 98516 360-455-7276
www.distinctivetilestone.com
Expression Stone Construction 7116 Stinson Ave. A207 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 360-551-3851
www.expressionstone.com
FloForm Countertops
22445 76th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032 253-639-4567 www.floform.com
Italstone Marble & Granite 2301 Ahtanum Rd. Yakima, WA 98903 509-469-8678 www.italstone-us.com
King County Library System 960 Newport Way N.W. Issaqua, WA 98027 425-369-3300 www.kcls.org
Lakewood Countertops 10513 Lakeview Ave. SW Lakewood, WA 98498 253-588-2169 www.lakewoodcountertops.com
Topline Counters, LLC PO Box 2156 Sumner, WA 98390 253-826-5480 www.toplinecounters.com
WISCONSIN
Bisley Fabrication Inc.*** 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 800-424-7539 www.bisleyfabrication.com
Counter-Form LLC
2001 E. 29th St. Marshfield, WI 54449 715-384-2131 www.counter-form.com
K.G. Stevents 11100 W. Silver Springs Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53225 262-432-8711 www.kgstevens.com
The Kopfmann Co. Inc. 3142 W. Mill Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-352-7870 www.kopfmanntops.com
McDermott Top Shop LLC 420 Generac Way Jefferson, WI 53549 262-593-2456 www.mcdermotttopshop.com
AFRICA AMCO-CDA Long St. Tiko B.P. 378 Camaroon Africa +237677192762
Elite Food Equipment 4 Fielding Ct. Ajax, ON L1T 4W5 Canada
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
Companies in blue are Certified Professionals. *** Denotes ISFA Booster Club Members. For more information on the ISFA Certified Professional Program, visit ISFAnow.org/certified-pro.html.
Paragon Surfacing LTD
6720 Graybar Rd. Richmond, BC V6W1J1 Canada 604-278-2225 www.paragonsurfacing.com
PF Custom Countertops Ltd. 14017 174 St. N.W. Edmonton, AB T5S 1H1 Canada 780-484-0831 www.pfcustomcountertops.com
Shape Industries 10 McPhillips St. Winnipeg, MB R3E 2J7 Canada 204-947-0409 www.shapeinc.com
Summum Granit Inc. 460 Principale St. Saint-Sebastien, QC G0Y 1M0 Canada 819-625-2333 www.summumgranit.com
CHINA
G. M. Jurohue Fabrication Co. Ltd. China +86 1861 173 7199
FRANCE
CREA Diffusion
ZA Le Cheval Blanc Solgne F-57420 France
38-764-6923 www.crea-diffusion.com
INDIA
Western Fabrications
1805, 18th Floor, Gundecha Premier, Thakur Village Borivali East Mumbai Maharashtra 400066 India
91-9136229909 www.infinihybrid.com
ITALY
Legnopan SPA (Starkryl Solid Surface)
Via Dell’Industria 13-15
Piovene Rocchette, VI, 36013 Italy 39-0445-551500 www.legnopan.com
MEXICO INDEKO***
Boulevard de los Charros 1500 Col. Belenes Ind. Nte. Zapopan, Jalisco Mexico 45150 52-3310287863 www.indeko.com.mx
QATAR
Closet World LLC
Salwa Rd. next to Ansar City PO Box 91692 Qatar +974 44516311 www.closetworld-qatar.net
RUSSIA
AKRILIKA HOLDING
Svobody St. 29 Moscow Russia 125362
+7(495)782-84-75 http://akrilika.com/en
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Alubond Solid Surfaces PO Box 42642
Hamriyah Free Zone
Sharjah U.A.E +971 6 526 2202 www.alubondsolidsurface.com
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
Sheridan Fabrications Limited
New Sheridan House, Don Pedro Ave. Normanton, West Yorkshire WF6 1TD
United Kingdom 448-456-182800 www.sheridan-uk.com
Cosentino debuted three new Silestone colorways – each design bringing an artful, dramatic interpretation to the most soughtafter marbles and stones. Two of the three new hues, Silestone Et D’Or and Silestone Et Bella, are the latest to join the Silestone Eternal Collection: Silestone Et Bella (center) combines elegance and warmth, featuring gray strokes across a striking white background as negative space; Silestone Et D’Or (left) features soft golden strokes across a white hue; and Polaris (right) joins the new Silestone Artika Series and features white veins that subtly contrast a darker gray background. Its partial translucence is what truly sets it apart and can be backlit to add drama to any application.
The world’s first battery-powered, hand-held suction cup, the Nemo Grabo, is now available from both GMR Quality Stone Products and GranQuartz. Unlike traditional suction cups that are only capable of creating a good seal with flat, clean and airtight surfaces, Grabo’s unique seal allows the tool to adhere to rough, etched surfaces. It is suitable for lifting a wide variety of surfaces including textured stone, polished granite, porcelain, glass and more. It features a built-in vacuum gauge and ships with a hard shell case, backup battery, carry strap, replacement foam ring, charger and replacement filter. Each suction cup is capable of handling up to 375 lbs. (perpendicular) and up to 265 lbs. (parallel) when moving polished granite.
Corian® Design now offers Corian Solid Surface in Widesheet Dimensions that enables the fabrication of larger, more complex applications. It helps optimize the fabrication process for faster installations in applications that previously required multiple seams. For the typical project, this means faster, less labor-intensive installation periods, and less material for fabricators to inventory. Large scale commercial applications and businesses, including healthcare, food service and retail, are ideal candidates for this type of application. In addition to allowing for coverage of more space with less material waste, they also contribute to Green Building and LEED building accreditation.
Karran now stocks two new stainless steel undermount vanity bowls. Constructed from durable 18-gauge stainless steel with a soft satin brushed finish, these designs are suitable for all solid surface, granite and quartz countertops. The UV-1715 is a modern rectangle design with a bowl featuring an elegant half circle curve. The UV-1816, with its sloped front and offset drain, is a great option for your commercial bathroom projects.
Radianz® matte finish is a brushed texture with a uniquely soft touch that offers high-quality color consistency. For seven colors ranging from rustic concrete finish to white aesthetics, Radianz® Quartz is pleased to announce the
extra option fulfilling a modern architectural trend! Durable, elegant and essential, the colors include: Modern, Urban, Columbia Gray, Ceres, Contrali, Everest White and Whitney Gray.
BB Industries (formerly Braxton-Bragg) added the recently re-branded Stain Proof by DryTreat premium line of cleaners and sealers to its offerings. Dry-Treat makes 13 products, half of which are stone and masonry sealers and cleaners used for everything from the Sydney Opera House and Dallas Cowboys stadium to homeowners’ showers and backsplashes. Stain Proof by Dry-Treat is not a new line, just a refresh of the same brand that has been made in North Carolina for years and originated in Australia in 1991. No original Dry-Treat formulas have been changed. STAIN-PROOF impregnators permanently bond to stone, providing quality stain protection from oil and water, plus premium protection from efflorescence, salt spalling, freeze-thaw spalling and picture framing. The penetrating sealers even stand up to commercial cleaning techniques such as high-pressure hosing.
LG Hausys introduced 10 new colors in two new HI-MACS collections: Aurora Collection and Terrazzo Collection. Inspired by natural wonder and nostalgic patterns respectively, these two collections can add a fresh visual texture into
spaces. The Aurora Collection includes Aurora Blanc, Aurora Cream, Aurora Gray, Aurora Pavia and Aurora Sanremo. The Terrazzo Collection consists of: Terrazzo Classico, Terrazzo Grigio, Terrazzo Luna, Terrazzo Moderna and Terrazzo Venato. LG Hausys also developed new Viatera quartz surface technology that has long diagonal veins inspired by nature. The four new Viatera colors in the Masterpiece collection are Ribera, Arion, Sabbia and Carbo, which capture the essence of calm with the silent waves of organic lines.
Alpha Professional Tools® expanded its Ecoguard Dust Collection line to include Ecoguard G7 and Ecoguard W9, which are designed for larger grinders such as 7- and 9-in. versions. Ecoguard G7 fits on most 7- and 9-in. angle grinders and is built for heavy-duty applications. It has several unique features such as a flexible head that allows for a natural grinding motion. The positioning collar makes installation simple and quick and the clear cover provides for visibility. Ecoguard W9 extends the range of the Ecoguard W Series to larger sizes covering up to 9-in. blades. It contains unique features including a new multi-adapter system for easy installation, a front brush to contain dust when plunge cutting and support bars and wheels to reduce surface friction during cutting. The maximum cutting depth is 2 3/8-in., it fits most 7- and 9-in. angle grinders and must be used with a vacuum or other dust collection system. In addition, for convenient attachment to a vacuum, the company offers a 54-in. flexible hose separately or together with an Ecoguard as a kit.
The Connected Collection, now available in the Wilsonart boutique Virtual Design Library (VDL), is based on a “separate but connected” story. Wilsonart’s in-house designers drew inspiration from the exploration of how individual surface designs with threads of similarities can work beautifully together, while also stand on their own in a given space. The new VDL release includes 16 abstracts and unique wood grains selected to coordinate with each other. The collection’s inherent connections make it easy to experiment, mix, match or use individually.
Now with nearly 600 designs and more launching each quarter, the Virtual Design Library offers unprecedented design choices for commercial and residential applications.
Princeton Chemical Company is now offering its flagship product Join.It™ direct to fabricators in the surfacing industry. Join.It is proudly manufactured in the USA. Join.It is a methacrylate-based adhesive that produces strong, durable bonds for solid surfaces, quartz, natural stones, ceramic and sintered materials, as well as a wide range of other surfaces. It is made for professional use in seaming countertops, backsplashes, wall panels, integral sinks and bowls, and other on-trend designs to satisfy today’s discriminating consumers. The adhesives are available exclusively to fabricators through the online store located at www.princetonchemical.com. The 10:1
adhesive is packaged in 250ml cartridges for ease of use and for the confidence in consistently dispensing the right proportional mix. Each Join.It glue match has been assigned a Match Grade, making it easy to select the color needed and eliminate waste. Using Join. It’s Match Grade can drastically reduce the number of colors needed in fabrication and the reduced inventory to result in lower overall costs and increased profits.
The Brilliant collection of solid surface from Durasein is not for the faint of heart or wallflowers. This collection is for the loud and proud, those who never shy away from the center stage. From the perfect purple to an outrageous orange, these decors are determined to dazzle and delight.
Kitchen sinks and faucets are on the front lines of keeping a home clean and safe. BLANCO’s patented SILGRANIT kitchen sink is made of a proprietary Hygienic Plus surface that acts as a shield against dirt and bacteria while reducing bacterial growth by up to 98 percent. The company’s latest model is the IKON 33-in. basin with a low 1 3/4-in. divide. It is designed to make prepping, cooking and cleaning a more seamless and comfortable experience for users.
Lapitec, an authentic through-body sintered material whose internal coloring matches its surface, introduced the Musa Collection. The collection has three veined variations, all on a Bianco Assoluto base: Bianco Elettra, with angular, intersecting veining; Bianco Vittoria, with thicker gray veining; and Bianco Aurora, with gray veining on a white background with a delicate pattern. The possibility of having slabs of large dimensions with through-body veining allows architects to be daring with projects and processes in sintered stone. It is also versatile, 100 percent natural and has no resin or digital printing.
Neolith® has unveiled its newest collection: SIX•S. This new color range, influenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, evokes six essential Neolith characteristics: Solidary, Sanitary, Strong, Stylish, Sensory and Sustainability. The collection consists of: Himalaya Crystal, which pays homage to the region’s famous salt crystals and have bold veining contrasting with subtle spontaneity and a slight translucency; Layla, which evokes the magic and mysticism of 1,001 Arabian Nights, combining an array of light and dark gray hues and tones; Abu Dhabi White, which stands out for its soft golden veining and flecks of flinty gray, combined with the texture of natural unpolished stone; Amazonico (shown here), which encapsulates dark and mysterious tones, representing the dense forest floor gradually
giving way to lighter colors and a special texture, further enhancing its natural qualities; Winter Dala and Summer Dala, which are named after one of the country’s national symbols, Dalecarlian Horses, are inspired by the majestic, slowgrowing pines surrounding Sweden’s breathtaking Lake Siljan – one represents profile of freshly cut timber, the other a weathered look with both recreating cross sections of real trees.
Sarto Countertops released its Easeedge, a new software for fabricators. In less than six years, Sarto Countertops grew from $300,000 to more than $6 million in business. Automation equipment had greatly improved its process in the shop, but the company realized its communication and management of jobs were very inefficient. It had multiple software subscriptions and was trying to handle data across several platforms, which management felt was troublesome and left money on the table. So, the fabricator developed a modern software that everyone in the company could use. It is designed to be powerful, easy-touse and mobile-friendly, so even those in the field could access necessary information. The software is now available to other fabricators, and includes job management, estimating, invoicing, drawing, scheduling and automated job tasks. There is no additional cost per user, making it affordable to integrate companywide.
Eco-friendly countertop manufacturer IceStone introduced a vibrant new color, Ocean Grass, which consists of large blue glass with tiny hints of clear and emerald green glass in a white background. IceStone incorporates 100 percent pre-consumer recycled glass along with cement and non-toxic pigment as the three core ingredients for its product. Because of the careful use of recycled materials, IceStone’s product offerings sometimes change based on what materials are available. The company also has Cradle to Cradle, B Corp and NSF certifications.
InnoChem, a member of the AKEMI Group, offers Hyperclear Adhesive which can be safely used in outdoor applications without the worry of yellowing. The adhesive features a zero bleeding, colorless, clear knife-grade formula with a fast cure time, allowing for five to eight minutes of working time. With a 1:1 ratio, it is easy to mix and can be used both indoor and outdoor on all hard surfaces including stone, porcelain, ceramic, quartzite, quartz and others. It is non-hazardous and VOC-free.
Formica Corporation expanded its surfacing materials offering with a line of Italian-designed surfaces. The company markets, manufactures and sells Arpa Industriale’s FENIX® innovative materials for interior design in North America. The integration with Formica brings new options for durable, sustainable commercial and residential interiors to North America. The FENIX NTM color palette is inspired by nature and it interprets and anticipates trends and tastes in interior design to offer a range of opportunities for expression. With low light reflectivity, FENIX surfaces are opaque, soft touch and antifingerprint. Plus, thermal healing of superficial micro-scratches is also possible. FENIX products have a core structure of paper (more than 60 percent) impregnated with thermosetting resins (30 to 40 percent). The outer surface is treated with next generation acrylic resins, which are hardened and fixed through an Electron Beam Curing process. It can be used for a variety of vertical or horizontal applications.
Because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the pandemic and the instruction by the CDC to avoid travel where possible, all ISFA events planned for the remainder of 2020 will either be moved to online platforms or have been put on hold until the best authorities have deemed it safe to travel again. As such, our training and networking events have been rescheduled as follows:
Maker’s Monday Meetings w/ Virtual Shop Tours
Sponsored by Park Industries Zoom Conference
Every Monday 2 p.m. EST www.isfanow.org/makersmondaymeetings
Gen 2 Event
Sponsored by Moraware Virtual Meeting Fall
Compact/Porcelain/Sintered Surfaces
Training & Certification Event
Sponsored by Park Industries, LPI, Crossville, Dekton by Cosentino, Infinity Surfaces, LAMINAM, Lapitec and MSI Virtual Event
Sept. 29-30
ISFA Annual Conference & Meeting
Sponsored by Park Industries, GranQuartz, Regent Stone, Integra Adhesives, Crossville and Infinity Surfaces
Virtual Event
Nov. 3-6
For additional information and registration options, please visit www. isfanow.org or email nancy@isfanow.org.
The Countertop Shop based in the Toledo, Ohio, area is hiring an inside sales person. Must have good people skills, some design ability and basic math skills. Full time position with benefits. Meet with customers, discuss needs, quote prices and follow up. Immediate start.
Apply to mike@countertopshop.net
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.
ASST (pronounced ASSIST) is an industry leader in commercial architectural surfacing fabrications. We provide surfacing solutions coordinating a wide variety of materials. Our headquarters are located in beautiful McSherrystown (near Gettysburg) Pennsylvania. ASST is presently seeking an energetic Installer as well as a Fabrication Team Members for our growing, ambitious company. ASST specializes in complex surface fabrications utilizing solid surface, translucent resins and other materials. Cabinetmaking, woodworking skills and/or experience with sheet materials such as 3Form® or DuPont Corian® are a definite plus. Experience with thermoforming solid surface, and resin materials are also a definite plus. You will be expected to coordinate and communicate with your direct supervisor to ensure Work Orders are properly fulfilled with the goal of a successfully completed project.
The successful candidate will have experience with solid surface fabrication and/or commercial architectural millwork in a busy shop environment.
The successful candidate will have installation experience with solid surface fabrication and/ or commercial architectural millwork in a busy construction site environment.
If qualified for either of these positions, please forward your resume in confidence to: stevenstoddard@asst.com
From the Desk of Steve Mast, ISFA Vice President
It’s hard to step into a position where the prior leader perfectly exemplifies what it means to be a member of this organization. In July, ISFA President Augie Chavez unfortunately had to step down. As ISFA Vice President, I will be stepping in to try to fill the void he has left. I only hope I can come close to doing as great of a job as he has done in his nearly 20 months as president.
Augie is unrivaled in building relationships and relentlessly connecting with and helping others. He seeks out knowledge and friendship within the industry and sees the value in learning as much as he can from others, while sharing his experience at the same time. I have witnessed him traveling to faraway seminars to seek new ideas and in turn implement them in his own shop. He is extremely generous with the knowledge he has attained along his way. Augie even went so far as to drop everything a few years ago to go run a fellow ISFA member’s shop when he wasn’t able to. I have also always admired the way he empowers his own employees, giving them the confidence and knowledge to run his shop effectively without him being present.
Augie is a true friend to the industry and those within it, and the ISFA Board of Directors and staff are thankful for the time, dedication and skill he provided to the association, and we all wish him the absolute best going forward.
My hope for ISFA in the future is that it will continue to provide the foundation to mimic exactly what Augie does so naturally, to learn from many and in turn share it with the friends we make along the way. We all want to succeed and take our businesses to the next level, and it’s imperative that we learn from and teach others. The journey to success is so much more satisfying when you extend a hand and help others to climb along with you.
My history with ISFA began more than 23 years ago, when I had just started in the countertop industry. I showed up a little green to my first meeting, only to find a welcoming bunch who were eager to share their stories and industry knowledge with me. It was a great introduction to fabrication and a wonderful opportunity to meet people and pick up a few ideas. So much has changed in the industry since then, such as growth in the popularity of stone and quartz, a variety of new software to further lead us into the digital age, and more advanced and automated equipment, just to name a few. But really, at its heart, much of the industry remains the same. It’s still largely made up of thousands of small businesses across America and around the world measuring, fabricating and installing countertops. We still continue to run into the “fun” challenges that happen every day, but the one constant that I am so grateful for is the variety of friendships I have made that now span more than two decades.
These friendships are by far the most valuable tool I have. I’ve relied on them again and again over the years. If you are considering a new piece of equipment, having trouble with some new material or thinking of expanding your business with a new product, it is so nice to have a trusted colleague you can contact to see what experience they’ve had with it. Oftentimes, they have already been down that path and have discovered some of the pitfalls. One of my favorite things to do is visit a fellow shop and see what ideas I can pick up to implement in my own business. It’s important to get out of your own world to gain perspective on what others are doing. Sometimes what seems to be the smallest thing that I discover ends up having a big impact on our operations. Other times, I’ve
witnessed practices that have been total game-changers that increase our profitability. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know long-time fabricators who have been great mentors and new fabricators who have fresh new ideas. As business author Ken Blanchard once said, “None of us is as smart as all of us.”
ISFA is currently offering new valuable opportunities to learn from others by hosting virtual shop tours during these trying times that aren’t conducive to travel and large gatherings. I invite you to check them out on our website at www.ISFAnow.org. Non-members can view one that is pre-recorded or participate in the Zoom conferences live (which are generally held on Mondays at 11 a.m. EST), whereas members can log in and view a whole host of them we have already collected and participate in the live events. We have received wonderful feedback on their value, and during the live events participants can ask questions and interact with the company as they walk us through their operations. I promise it will be well worth the 30 minutes or so it takes.
I also encourage everyone to join and be part of ISFA. It offers a great place to be able to meet others, visit other’s shops, share, learn from a variety of available resources and, of course, have some fun. Not only will it help make your countertop/surfacing business better and more profitable, the journey will be much more enjoyable when you are supported by friends.
Steve Mast, ISFA Vice President steve.m@precisioncountertops.com
