ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 7, Issue 4 - Q4 2014

Mobile Showroom Highlights Material Capabilities Page 20

Solid Surface on Display

Tips for Improving Your Hiring Process 2

Router Bits Designed for Solid Surface Sinks Page 26

The Top Factor to Boosting Sales Page 30

Selecting the Right Tooling for the Job Page 34

VOLUME 7 / ISSUE 4 • QUARTER 4, 2014 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

ISFA Member since 1997

Circle RS#01 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 4 • 3

Letters to the EditorCountertops & 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 [email protected] or to Letters, ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 attention: Editor. Include a telephone number and address (preferably an email address). Letters may be edited for clarity or space. Because of the high volume of mail we receive, we cannot respond to all letters. Send queries about Countertops & Architectural Surfaces to [email protected] or mail to ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044 or fax to (412) 487-3269 attention: Editor. Contacting ISFAPhone: (412) 487-3207Fax: (412) [email protected]

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

Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States. Call for details. To subscribe, call (412) 487-3207. Printed in the United States of America. Copyright © International Surface Fabricators Association 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without publisher’s written permission. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces and The International Surface Fabricators Association assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

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

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

Photography 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: Thierry Delles and CREA Diffusion, Leo Torri for DuPont™ Corian®, Jeffrey Smith and Gemstone and GUHDO USA.

Magazine CreditsPublisher & Editor: Kevin ColeProofreader: Nancy Mueller-TruaxDesign: V2 Marketing Communications

ISFA Officers of the BoardDave Paxton, PresidentMike Langenderfer, Immediate Past PresidentMell Hill, Vice PresidentErica Hussey, TreasurerAdam Albee, Secretary

ISFA DirectorsMike Woods, DirectorKate Dillenburg, DirectorRyan Miller, DirectorJohn Hansen, Associate Member RepresentativeJeff Smith, Associate Member Representative

ISFA StaffKeith Haight, Executive Director Kevin Cole, Communications Director and Magazine/Website Publisher & Editor Paul Wisnefski, Account RepresentativePaula Goncz, Administrative Assistant & Registrar

Cover PhotoThe “Super Black” kitchen made with DuPont™ Corian®, was created for the “Corian® 2.0” exhibition (Milan, April 2014); design Christian Ghion, production Crea Diffusion; photo Leo Torri for DuPont™ Corian®; all rights reserved on design and photo. Read the full story on Page 20.

CREDITS

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

CONTENTSFeatures20 Solid Surface on Display Amazing mobile showroom highlights the capabilities of this material

26 Saving Time with Router Bits for Solid Surface Sinks Newly designed tooling takes time out of the finishing process

30 The Top Determining Factor Behind Every Sale How to make sure your customer sees the value

34 Solid Surface Machining: Keys to Cost Savings Selecting the right tooling for the job

Departments 6 From the Editor

8 From the President

10 From the Executive Director

12 Education Connection

14 Calendar of Events

16 Management Matters

17 Industry News

37 ISFA News

42 ISFA Fabricator Directory

46 Product News

49 Reader Service Form

50 Classifieds/AdIndex

34

30

30

26

20

Circle RS#02 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. ISFA Member since 2000


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

On a Wing and a PrayerThe pigeon is certainly not what most of us would consider to be the most glamorous bird, and is not the one we think of this time of year. They do not bring thoughts of thanks, have a noble imagery like that of the eagle or the hawk, nor do we associate them with beauty either by virtue of their bright colors or melodious sound. However, not long ago I heard the story of the North American passenger pigeon, and it’s become one of those things that seems to roll around unescapably in my brain over and over again. I think there are some real lessons to be learned from this particular story, so I thought I would share it with you, and if nothing else, maybe by writing it down I can get a little respite from the thoughts of it.

If you have never heard of the passenger pigeon, I’m certain you aren’t alone, but maybe you should be. From what I can tell, the tale of this species is one that is slowly being forgotten by the conscious of modern America, but I think it is a story we probably shouldn’t forget.

In the 1800s, the passenger pigeon was the most common bird in North America and perhaps even the world. An estimated 3 to 5 billion of them were said to live here when Europeans first set foot on the continent, and scientists believe they may have accounted for up to 25 percent of all birds worldwide. Some may find that in itself a startling fact, but when you hear that as a defense mechanism these migratory birds were known to flock together in groups massing numbers in the hundreds of millions or more, the story begins to take on a sort of wonder.

Accounts from the 1800s recall the birds emerging over the horizon like a darkness falling on the land as the flocks would migrate overhead. Historians documented reports that the largest of these flocks would fill the skies in all directions as far as the eye could see, turning day into night for eight to 10 hours or more. And when these flocks would nest, they would literally fill vast forests of the American frontier so that every branch was roosted on and birds would be stacked on top of each other.

It is said that the passing of a flock of these birds was truly an awe-inspiring sight to see, taking no back seat to any of the wonders of the world.

The birds were generally considered only a nuisance because they mostly fed on wild acorns and nuts, but some accounts also had them damaging crops of buckwheat. However, they were also considered a tasty, yet cheap and readily available source of protein. As more people got a taste for passenger pigeon, more people got a taste for hunting them.

Hunters and trappers soon took to killing the pigeons by the hundreds of thousands. It was said a single gunshot could kill dozens. A massive industry developed around the hunting and selling of passenger pigeon meat. Groups of hunters thousands strong would follow the flocks continuously gathering their carcasses and making a fortune in the process. However, it seems the industry grew out of control.

Before long, hunters had changed their tactics in an ever-increasing frenzy to grow their bounties. They took to netting the birds, burning them out of their nests and gassing them to increase the numbers they could bring in. And, by the late 1800s we had basically killed the goose that had laid the golden egg. Even as it became obvious that the pigeons were being driven to extinction, the hunters continued to chase down every remaining flock, without regard for the species or even their own livelihoods. Subsequently, in 1914 — 100 years ago this year — the last passenger pigeon died in a zoo in Cincinnati, Ohio … from billions to nil in a single lifetime of today.

Now I don’t mean to draw judgment on hunters or even point fingers into the past. I think like anyone, and maybe even more so, that a modern outdoorsman will no doubt find the extinction of a whole species to be well beyond the boundaries of acceptable. And there is no doubt that the past can lament on its mistakes. I just know that this story has had an effect on me, and it may stir something similar in you.

Now you can take this story and pass it along as a tragedy not to be repeated, or you can leave it here on the page of this magazine, knowing that we are not to be blamed directly for the damage done by our ancestors. But however you feel about the story of the passenger pigeon, I hope you can see a lesson within it to be learned.

You might see a lesson in the greed that lead to the downfall of the hunter and hunted alike and find parallels in our industry, whether in pricing or quality or in some other area, that ultimately hurts everyone.

Perhaps you will infer from this story that growth should be a well-plotted and calculated move that will maximize the profits without destroying the product.

You may see it as a cautionary tale of a lack of foresight in thinking beyond the immediate profit and looking at the future of an industry.

You could take from it that there should be more communication and working together among peers to avoid a fate of dash and grab that leaves everyone empty-handed.

Maybe you take a more literal view and see a hint at the importance of sustainable products and the need to provide more environmentally responsible options, regardless of the end product.

Or perhaps during this season of good will and giving thanks you see some other lesson to be learned in the fate of the passenger pigeon, or sadly no lesson at all. For me, I think maybe there could be a bit of truth to all of these viewpoints, or maybe I just can’t believe how easily a billion birds can disappear.

As always, I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely,

Kevin Cole, Publisher & Editor [email protected]


Hello Everyone!

As I write this, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and today I am thankful to be alive, for the wonderful people in my life and for the puzzles I am faced with to solve, and do solve, on a daily basis. “Puzzle” is a word I choose to use when someone comes to me with a problem. I typically tell them, “This sounds like your puzzle for the day to solve.” I find that using this word puts things into perspective and turns people into problem solvers (what we need) that are solution-driven as opposed to a bunch of whiney complainers. In general, people have no patience for complainers and many actually despise others that continually complain. So why do we all complain? I believe there is one main reason (but we will get to that later).

This is my last editorial in this magazine as ISFA president. In representing ISFA this year as president, it has been both an honor and a puzzle. The association is growing and younger people are entering the market, which is great, but the puzzle is that both business in general and making connections are being performed in a different sort of way.

It seems to me that younger people don’t want to know you unless they can know you before they know you or they don’t want to know you. What I mean by that is the next generation of business people tend to do a lot of research about you and your business and make a judgment call before they ever reach out to you directly. There are so many ways to get to know more about a person or a business. People now have a tendency to look at your website, check out your Facebook page or just Google you before they ever even consider calling you. If they can’t learn about you

online, or they don’t like what they do learn, it seems they will just find someone else to develop a relationship with. The older generation is much more likely to do their networking face-to-face instead of in the virtual world. That is the world that we live in.

So, in an effort to solve this puzzle, I have tried to increase my presence online, and working with the ISFA staff and board of directors, we have recently relaunched the ISFA website at www.isfanow.org. Also, as I have become known for, I am a great believer in just picking up the phone and calling people (although I have to admit that I sometimes look them up on the Web first). I think talking and sharing can really help to develop the connections that help me improve my business all the time.

Now I want to get on to answering my question above of “Why do we all complain,” but first I want to say a few words about our new incoming ISFA president.

It is an honor to welcome Mel Hill of Oldcastle surfaces into the role of president. She is only the second woman to lead ISFA as president (the first was Vanessa Bates, who was a great leader by the way), and I am confident she will do a wonderful job.

Mel is a puzzle solver, not a complainer; a people person, not a divider; is highly ethical; and lights up a room with her presence. She understands how the business owners of today are learning to communicate and balances that with the more personal ways as well.

Welcome Mel!

And as has become my trademark in these editorials, I would once again like to recognize a

few people in the industry that have influenced me and my business the last couple months and whom I wouldn’t have gotten to know without making connections in ISFA. They are Todd Werstler; Mike Langenderfer; Adam Albee; Russ Berry; Sean Jacobs; Rusty Smith; Aaron Crowley; and Mory Ludwig. I want to give a thank you to these eight individuals for the advice they offered me. Whether you know it or not you inspired me.

And now I finally want to get to that question about why we all complain. However, instead of putting an answer for it down on paper, I would like to talk to you (yes, you) directly about it. Call me on my cell phone at (517) 719-0146 and we can talk about it. Or better yet, if you are going to StonExpo or KBIS in January, let’s meet up and discuss it over a beer! I, along with all of the ISFA board of directors (including our great new president), will be there, and if you give me a call we can set up a time to talk. Or come to any one of the ISFA gatherings that are scheduled for 2015. We may all be guilty of over-using the Internet to make our connections these days, but nothing beats staring someone in the eye, getting to know them, and sharing ideas, experiences and information directly. Maybe I can help you solve one of your puzzles, or better yet, we can help each other. And that is what ISFA is all about. I hope to connect with you soon.

Dave Paxton, ISFA [email protected]

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

Puzzle Me This


What an amazing few months it’s been! Taking on the role as Executive Director of ISFA is more than I could have imagined. Certainly there are many challenges, but for the most part it is one of the greatest experiences of my career.

I have met with members in person, on the phone or through email and text. The conversations are mixed. Comments range from, “ISFA is a great organization and I always get something out of each meeting” to “I’m not sure what value we get out of ISFA.” Obviously the latter comment disturbs me. If ISFA truly is not delivering value, then something is terribly wrong. On the other hand, if a member is not pursuing and extracting the value from ISFA, then they don’t know what they’re missing. JFK expressed it best when he said to the nation, “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.” The same applies here. The more involved you are, the more you will get from it.

As I said in my first letter to you, an organization is only as strong as its membership. I’ll do you one better. An organization is only as strong as its participating membership! ISFA needs you to help continue to build this into the strong organization you want and deserve. We are on a great road

toward this growth, and it’s the strength of our Associate and Fabricator members that will keep us on the path to building ISFA into the great organization that you dream of! Remember the early days?

For 2014 ISFA was involved in many different events. The Grassroots Gathering Event at ILSD near Detroit was a huge success. We’ve conducted our first Knowledge Is Power symposium in Pittsburgh, Total Fabrication Training (TFT) classes in Hawaii and Las Vegas, and once again teamed up with the IWF to create the Countertop Pavilion and Symposium in Atlanta.

Another valuable program ISFA recently started for its members is the ISFA Marketplace. This benefit is included with member dues and offers exclusive discounts from FedEx, Staples and W.W. Grainger. You can read more about it in this issue.

Next year we have TFT classes set up for both solid surface and quartz. The TFTs are not only offered in an established location, but at a local facility of the fabricator’s choosing. We will conduct two CEO Roundtables for Second

Generation owners, a Productivity Event, a large Gathering Event, and start a scholarship fund in honor of Mike Nolan. A lot is going on! Now you can see why ISFA needs your support and participation.

I told you I have an open door, email and phone policy, and I mean it. Contact me any time. My information is at the end of this article.

The momentum has started. I’ve been around this industry long enough to see the power and accomplishments that occur when many band together toward a great cause. So with that I say, “Let’s get together!” Let’s collect all our resources and catapult ISFA to the next level!

As we come upon the Christmas season, ISFA wishes you and your family many joyous blessings and a Happy New Year. Here’s to a wonderful 2014 and an even greater 2015.

Cheers!

Keith Haight ISFA Executive Director (484) 354-5909 | [email protected]

From the Executive DirectorFrom the desk of Keith Haight, Executive Director

Let’s Get Together!

It’s more than just learning how to be more profitable, saving money on the bottom line

and getting great referrals and discounts.

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

(412) 487-3207www.ISFAnow.org


WARNING!This may be the last

copy of this magazine you receive!

You must act now if you don’t want your subscription to end!

We are in the process of updating the subscriber lists for Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine. If you are not a member of ISFA or do not have a paid subscription, and have not renewed your subscription in the past year, you may stop receiving this publication soon.

For a limited time, ISFA is offering FREE subscriptions to qualified industry individuals residing in North America, but you must fill out the subscription form to make sure you will receive the publication in the future. You can find the subscription form on Page 17 of this issue, or online at http://isfanow.org/magazine-subscription.

All ISFA members are automatically qualified and added to the subscription list and need not fill out the form.


FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR • FOR THE FABRICATOR •

The key is to educate yourself on the subject and develop a process for hiring the best person for the job.

As manufacturers, we most likely have a purchasing process for raw materials for both quantities and timing. We probably have a good accounts receivable and payable system also. We definitely have a streamlined process to reduce scrap and rework, and maintain our rigid quality standards. So, if we have all of these processes and systems in place, why don’t we more readily have a hiring process or system in place?

Maybe you have an HR person or department, and you feel it is that person’s responsibility and they know what they’re doing … but has that worked? Or maybe you don’t feel your business is big enough for an HR component and you’re just too busy to really devote a lot of time to this whole recruitment and hiring process and these staffing agencies are giving you lousy candidates. Lastly, I’m often told that the reason we can’t find good quality help is that young people just don’t know how to work; it’s the product that society is producing and we can’t do anything about it.

Let’s say that all of the above statements are correct … so now what, do we just give up? Well, of course not. If we have systems and processes that work so well for everything else, why not develop another for one of, if not the

most, important pieces of business: hiring and recruiting?

Let me share with you a mnemonic device that will do two things for you. First, by reviewing it and thinking about it, it will help you to learn and remember your goal of recruiting and hiring, which is of course finding top talent, not just a warm body. Second, use the mnemonic device for your hiring process. So here it is:

“I See A Quality Individual In Here, Oh Boy.”

Let’s break it down:

“I” for “Identify.” This may be what your HR person does exceedingly well — he or she writes up a job description. It is important to clearly identify the role you are looking to fill and the qualifications needed to fill it. However, a job description is just the beginning of the process.

“See” for “Source.” There are many ways that we can source candidates, depending upon the position: third-party recruiters, LinkedIn or maybe you’re a pro and have a “people bank.” Try to cast a wide net to get more options.

“A” for “Assess.” Now, when we talk about assessing, we don’t mean for personality, although it’s helpful; we mean for cognitive ability, strengths, weaknesses and hidden weaknesses. The problem with the way most people hire is that they interview and like the candidate before they

assess (if they assess) the candidate. Inevitably, even if the candidate assesses poorly, we might blame a faulty assessment because it clearly couldn’t be a faulty candidate since he or she interviewed so well. An honest assessment before the interview process is critical if we don’t want another hire who will eventually be “non-retained” in just a few months.

“Quality” for “Qualify.” Once we find a candidate who assesses well, we want to have a brief telephone interview to determine if we should spend time with with that individual in person.

“Individual” for “Interview.” Those who make it through the screening process come in for a face-to-face interview.

“In” for “Inventory.” Next, we take everything that we’ve learned from all available resources (résumé/application, assessment, pre-screen, interview, social media, etc.) and objectively rank candidates using a scoring system.

“Here” for “Hire.” Once we have determined the best candidate, we make a hiring offer. Make sure you properly prepare the candidate by setting expectations that you won’t allow for him or her to pit you against other opportunities. That way you won’t lose out on the good candidates or have to increase your offer.

“Oh Boy” for “On-boarding.” Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean “Oh boy, we’re done.” This is a critical phase for making sure you have a successful new hire. The on-boarding process is using a road map of success that you’ve developed to help shorten the time from initial hire to having a productive and profitable employee in as short a period of time as possible.

Clearly, there is a lot more that goes into each one of these steps, but by giving some thought to the principles outlined in this simple mnemonic device, and following it, you’ll have in place a consistent, measurable and reliable system for hiring your next superstar employee.

For more valuable information, request our sales guide, Why Salespeople Fail at www.peakperformance.sandler.com/ebook.

About the Author

Bryan Whittington is a Sales Process Expert Trainer & Consultant with Sandler Training, based in Pittsburgh, Pa., and can be reached at (412) 928-9933 or [email protected].

Learn to Hire Top Talent

By Bryan Whittington

Education Connection

The majority of business owners I work with tell me that one of their biggest challenges to running a business isn’t cash flow, although important; government regulations, although daunting; not even quality, although the lifeblood of customer satisfaction. No, the biggest challenge that the owners with whom I work face is hiring the right person. You know, the one who actually shows up, does the job, fits within the culture and will stick around past a year or two. Funny, or not as the case may be, this hire doesn’t seem all that impressive … it almost seems like the bare minimum. So what can we do about it?

Learn Something New.

Create More Profit.

Make More Money.

Give Your Company the Leading Edge.

UPCOMING TRAINING DATES:

Total Fabrication Training — Solid Surface Chantilly, Va.

February 17-19, 2015 • May 19-21 September 15-17

Total Fabrication Training — Quartz/Stone Oakland, N.J.

April 8-10, 2015 • July 27-29Las Vegas

January 26-28, 2015 • October 5-7

Find Out More & Watch Our YouTube Video! Visit www.ISFAnow.org/tft

or call us at (412) 487-3207

Whether it’s adopting a new material to offer more to your customers,

or refreshing your staff on some of the best techniques and practices in the industry,

there’s a reason for everyone to experience Total Fabrication Training.



Trinic GFRC Training Jan. 15 – 16, 2015 Windsor, N.Y. (800) 475-1975

Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) Jan. 20 – 22, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (877) 267-4662

NAHB International Builders Show (IBS) Jan. 20 – 22, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 967-8619

The International Surface Event (TISE) StonExpo/Surfaces/TileExpo Jan. 20 – 23, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (866) 550-6808

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools Jan. 26 – 28, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

India Stone Mart 2015 Jan. 29 – Feb. 1, 2015 Jaipur, Rajasthan India +91-141-512-2610

World of Concrete Feb. 2 – 6, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (972) 563-6370

Vitoria Stone Fair 2015 Feb. 7 – 10, 2015 Espirito Santo, Brazil +55-273-434-0600

Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface Feb. 17 – 19, 2015 Chantilly, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ASID Design Summit Feb. 26, 2015 Chicago, Ill. (312) 467-5080

ISFA 2nd Generation CEO Roundtable Hosted by ILSD March 4 – 5, 2015 New Boston, Mich. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

Park Industries Digital Expo March 5, 2015 Orlando, Fla. (800) 328-2309

Architectural Digest Home Design Show March 19 – 25, 2015 New York, N.Y. (800) 677-6278

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools April 8 – 10, 2015 Oakland, N.J. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

Stiles Executive Briefing Conference April 12 – 14, 2015 Atlanta, Ga. (616) 698-7500

Coverings 2015 April 14 – 17, 2015 Orlando, Fla. (703) 706-8227 www.coverings.com

AIA National Convention May 14 – 16, 2015 Atlanta, Ga. (800) 242-3837

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface May 19 – 21, 2015 Chantilly, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA 2nd Generation CEO Roundtable June 3 – 4, 2015 Chantilly, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Productivity Event Hosted by Indeko June 16 - 18, 2015 Guadalajara, Mexico (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

AWFS July 22 – 25, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (800) 946-2937

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools July 27 – 29, 2015 Oakland, N.J. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Grassroots Gathering August, 2015 TBD (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface Sept. 15 – 17, 2015 Chantilly, Va. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools Oct. 5 – 7, 2015 Las Vegas, Nev. (412) 487-3207 www.isfanow.org

WMS 2015 Nov. 5 – 7, 2015 Toronto, Ontario Canada (866) 967-2015

Submit your event for consideration in our Calendar by emailing Editor Kevin Cole at [email protected].

Calendar of Events


Additional Information:Please email this completed form to [email protected] or fax to (412) 487-3269.

Call the ISFA office at (412) 487-3207 or email [email protected] for more information.

Training Provided by ISFA Member:

Total Fabrication Training (Solid Surface)2015 Class Reservation FormMain: (412) 487-2107 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.isfanow.org • 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044

Course InformationTotal Fabrication Training combines basic hands-on fabrication training with advanced concepts, such as safety, product knowledge, basic productivity concepts, templating, seaming, cutouts, bowl-mounting processes, edge treatments, basic repairs, thermoforming, inlays, backsplashes, finishing, quality control and inspection, installation and support systems. The three-day course is the most comprehensive training program available for the solid surface industry and is endorsed by leading manufacturers of solid surface products. Fill out the information below to reserve your spot and attend this industry wide accepted training program.

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Total Fabrication Training DatesHeld in Chantilly, Va. Please select the training class you will be attending:

q February 17-19, 2015

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q If you are not a member, check this box to sign up for membership today! For the same price as a nonmember seat to this class, you also get a full year’s worth of membership and can save on additional attendees!

Surface Link 4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Suite - R Chantilly, VA 20151-1239


Quartz surfaces have been around for some time now, but those involved in the surfacing industry will have to agree that over the last few years its popularity has increased. There are several reasons for this that are worth considering, but first it would be prudent to provide a little background information on this growing material category.

Before there was quartz surfacing, there was terrazzo which is basically chips of granite, marble, glass and other particulates mixed with a binder (many times cement) and poured into a shape.

Then came the invention of engineered stone, pioneered by the Italian company Breton. Developed and refined in the 1970s, the first engineered stone used polyester resin and limestone, but later experimentation lead to using granulated granite, marble and then silica sands. Eventually, ground quartz became the standard because of its formidable properties and the category of quartz surfacing was born.

There has been confusion surrounding the difference between engineered stone and quartz surfacing. Basically, all quartz surfacing is engineered stone, but not all engineered stone is quartz surfacing. The difference is determined by the type of crushed natural stone used, obviously with quartz surfacing using primarily crushed quartz. The content of actual quartz minerals in quartz surfacing is typically 93 percent quartz to 7 percent resin binders, by weight.

What’s So Good About Quartz Surfacing?

The properties of quartz surfacing have some advantages over previous versions of engineered stone, and there are some great comparisons to be made with other materials.

First off, the use of quartz is a major improvement over previous iterations of engineered stone because it is one of the hardest materials available.

Hardness is ranked using something called the Mohs scale. The higher the Mohs ranking, the harder the material is. And, the harder the material is, the more resistant it will be to scratching,

abrasion, etc. Talc, one of the least hard minerals, for instance, is ranked as a 1 on the Mohs scale. Granite comes in significantly higher at a ranking of 5. Diamond, the hardest mineral, ranks at 10. And natural quartz comes in at a 7, between granite and diamond. So, it is very durable, which is one reason why consumers are drawn to it.

Another factor is its flexural strength. Most tests agree that quartz surfacing has a flexural strength in the range of 4,500 to 7,000 psi. Granite has a flexural strength of between 1,200 and 4,300 psi. Solid surface has a flexural strength of around 10,000 psi. So, quartz surfacing falls in between these two other popular surfaces.

This flexural strength also makes it popular among fabricators. At a recent visit to a stone shop, I talked with the fabricators about their experiences with quartz. The general opinion was that it was easy to work with because they didn’t have to worry as much about breaking as some other materials.

Another quartz feature that brings value to the consumer is that it is nonporous, which makes it highly stain-resistant without ever having to apply a sealant. Because quartz is nonporous it can also be listed in the NSF/ANSI compliance website. However, not all quartz manufacturers are listed. There are three levels of compliance: Nonfood; splash and drip; and food contact. For most, the food contact rating would be considered the most important, but some quartz surfacing materials are not listed with this level of compliance. So, it is important to make sure to ask if the quartz surfacing you are interested in or working with is in compliance. You can also search for it directly at http://info.nsf.org/Certified/Food/.

Because quartz surfacing is man-made, it comes in a wide variety of designs and colors. Some mimic granite, marble or other natural stones, and some are quite unique to quartz. This broad array of color options allows manufacturers to keep up with the ever-changing taste of educated consumers. The color wheel is simply whatever color trend the design world demands.

Another advantage when it comes to color is consistency. It’s pretty easy to match up slabs and maintain the color throughout. Not only is this a benefit when fabricating a top, it also opens the door for other uses. For example, a wall treatment where multiple slabs might be needed is not a problem. Quartz is shipped with lot numbers similar to how solid surface is shipped; if you keep to the lots, you’ll maintain the color from slab to slab.

Because color trends change, what was once a hot color may not be now. And, different manufacturers have different palettes. Designers will want to be familiar with multiple product lines so they can show clients a variety of choices. It may require a little study, but it will work to keep consumers happy with the choices they have.

Looking Ahead

Quartz is trending upwards, and studies have shown it will continue to gain market share. With more and more emerging manufacturers, it’s unclear what this will do to the price of slabs in the future, but at this time most manufacturers price their material similarly. Consumers are prepared to pay a premium price for quartz, because of its growing reputation as a premium product. This, of course, is good news for kitchen showrooms, fabricators and designers alike. If you’ve passed on this product in the past, now would be a good time to take another look at it, as it only appears to be going up.

Is quartz the last step with countertops? Something tells me it’s not. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next big thing is, and I hope you are too. But in the meantime, happy selling.

About the Author

Jon Olson works for DuPont as a key account consultant for Corian and Zodiaq surfaces in New England and has more than 30 years’ involvement in the solid surface industry, with experience in all aspects of fabrication and sales. He is the past recipient of ISFA’s Fabricator of the Year and Innovator Awards and can be reached at [email protected].

From the desk of Jon Olson

Quartz Surfaces Are Trending Up

Management Matters


In the IndustryMSI Opens New Distribution Center, Launches New Online Tools

In addition to offering upgraded online tools for fabricators and designers, M S International, Inc. (MSI) also opened a new distribution center in Charlotte, N.C. The new facility stocks a full offering of the company’s product lines including natural stone, quartz, porcelain, ceramic and glass tile. It has more than 50,000 sq. ft. of space and features an indoor crane that serves a slab selection center that showcases more than 250 colors of materials from 36 countries. It also has a state-of-the-art showroom with an interactive Kitchen Visualizer. This Kitchen Visualizer tool has recently been updated and is now enabled to allow designers and retailers to place it on their own websites at no cost. It allows customers to visualize a variety of kitchen product material design combinations. By clicking on the countertop, flooring or backsplash of choice, users can quickly have a photo rendered vision of their desired kitchen that can be emailed or shared on social media platforms. No training is required to use the program. Additionally, the company developed an online system to allow fabricators, retailers, designers and consumers to preview more than 30,000 slabs of granite, marble, quartz, onyx, limestone, soap stone, and others located at the nearest of MSI’s 17 distribution centers. Customers can also get information on the number and sizes of slabs. More information on either of these online tools can be found at www.msistone.com.

Formica Announces New HiresFormica Corporation hired several new personnel to fill key positions in the company, both globally and in North America. Jeffrey F. Taylor joined the company as global vice president and general manager of innovation and research and development. In this newly created role, Taylor will lead efforts to help the corporation connect and remain relevant to its customers around the world. He will be responsible for aligning technical strategy with forward-thinking market initiatives to support growth. He previously held the position of

Hermance Machine Named Colonial Saw STRIEBIG Dealer of the YearColonial Saw, the North American distributor of Swiss-made STRIEBIG Vertical Panel Saw, recognized Hermance Machine Company in Williamsport, Pa., as the STRIEBIG Dealer of the Year. “Colonial Saw and Hermance have been partners for more than 20 years, and I am pleased to present the award for the first time to them as they have been in the Top Ten Dealers for years,” said STRIEBIG Product Manager Dave Bull.

director of innovation and product development at Valspar Corporation.

In its North American operations, the company also hired three new executives. In a newly created position as senior marketing manager — residential segment, Kate Fortlage will lead the investigation and analysis of Formica North America’s strategic opportunities in the residential market. Jimmy McCammon joins the company as the North American director of technology in which he will manage the technical project pipeline, supplier quality control programs, customer field support and the company’s sustainability program. Quinn Wang was named senior director, strategic business development and analytics. He will lead new business development and adjacent category exploration efforts for North America. He will also support marketing, advertising and sales initiatives in regard to performance reporting.

Shultz FormSchultz Form LLC redesigned its website at www.schultzform.com, which features its line of thermoforming equipment. The company added

e-commerce options so purchases can be made online and a link to the company’s Facebook page where current projects can be viewed. Brochures for the different products can now also be downloaded.

Integra Adhesives Launches an App for Color MatchingIntegra Adhesives launched a smartphone App for iOS and Android to work as a reference tool to select appropriate colors from the company’s pre-colored cartridge-based adhesives line for laminating, mitering and seaming quartz, natural stone, ceramic and solid surface. It allows fabricators to pull Integra’s entire collection of color reference charts, on or off-line, for quick reference, and also shows images of more than 200 natural stone colors, matched with Integra Natural stone collection. Additionally, it brings up a visual guide to the company’s 300 Surface Bonder Xi colors, allowing fabricators to see what each color looks like and also what are its closest similar colors. The new app also has an Adhesive Calculator for determining the required amount of adhesive for a specific job, based on linear feet of lamination, miter or deck seam, for various material thicknesses. It also has videos, product specifications and technical references. It can be downloaded for free in the Apple App Store or in Google Play by searching for Integra Adhesives.



The L.E. Smith Company to Distribute Kohler ProductsThe L.E. Smith Company will now distribute Kohler products in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and the Chicagoland area. Offerings include cast iron sinks in various styles and colors, and the Sterling Brand line of stainless steel sinks in undermount, apron-front and drop-in varieties. The most popular varieties will be available with one week lead time.

Avonite Design Award Winner AnnouncedFrench designer arch’office was named the winner of the Avonite 2014 Designer

Showcase for its desk project at the Grenoble École de Management business school. The desk was designed to be used as a reception desk for various events but also as extra furniture, placed against a wall to take up minimal space. The piece, equipped with casters for mobility, is made up of three functional elements: a coffee machine column, a pair of storage modules and space for a refrigerator. Avonite’s Cirrus color solid surface was chosen for the project because its white petals and translucency provide an interesting effect of material and texture. It is accented by blue LED lighting. Also part of the design are latticed solid surface partitions and Cirrus-topped accent tables.

Mio Metals Upgrades WebsiteZincCountertops.net, Mio Metals’ newly upgraded product-specific website, now integrates an interactive map, photo gallery and estimate request system. The site has a curated photo gallery showing public zinc countertop

installations and also has an active database of qualified installers for residential countertops across the country. The sites’ Estimate Request feature allows users to provide basic contact information and upload drawing files or other specifications.

Coverings Seeks Stone and Tile Projects for 2015 Design AwardsCoverings seeks submissions to its 2015 Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards, honoring superior designs and installations of tile and stone. Available to architects,



designers, builders, contractors, distributors, retailers and installers, the CID Awards celebrate creativity and technical prowess in residential, commercial, international and sustainable projects. Winning projects will be announced at Coverings 2015, which will be held April 14-17, 2015, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. A ceremony honoring the winners will be held on the first evening of the show and will include a cocktail reception. It is free and open to all attendees. An independent panel of judges will evaluate submissions, with Grand Prize winners of the Residential and Commercial categories to receive $2,000 and a one night’s hotel stay in Orlando. Additional cash prizes will be awarded in each category. Winners must be present, with the exception of international projects. Multiple entries are accepted and there is no fee to enter. For further details on the program and to submit a project, go to www.coverings.com/CID.

Cosentino Group Sponsors, Participates in World Sustainable Building ConferenceThe Cosentino Group was a gold level sponsor and one of the main protagonists at the World Sustainable Building Conference (World SB14), the largest gathering in the world for sustainable construction, held recently in Barcelona, Spain. This year’s conference was attended by more than 20,000 visitors from more than 50 countries. One of the conference’s most lauded presentations was given by Cosentino, together with the Make it Right Foundation, the nonprofit organization founded by the actor Brad Pitt. The Foundation’s executive director, Tom Darden, and construction manager, Craig Turner, addressed the topic of access to sustainable and ecological homes for low-income families. In their presentation, they maintained that it is possible to create housing projects offering high-performance, energy-efficient, sustainable homes of good design for people on low incomes. Believing that quality,

sustainable houses can be built for the same price as conventional ones, the directors of Make it Right showed attendees its projects in New Orleans, Newark, N.J., Kansas City, Mo., and on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in Montana.

EOS Surfaces Hires New Marketing DirectorEOS Surfaces has hired Mancha Stanton as director of marketing for its GEOS glass-based recycled material and EOS solid surface material lines. “Her marketing background combined with her experience owning and growing a small business will enhance the EOS Surfaces team as we continue to expand our GEOS Recycled Glass business nationwide and launch the company’s preventive biocidal surface, EOScu, in the healthcare market,” said Kate Mitchell, executive vice president of brand equity and stewardship.”

In the Industry



Solid SurfaceON DISPLAY


When Jean-Yves Bach, the European manager for DuPont™ Corian®, decided to participate in the Milan Furniture Fair, he wanted a display that would not only be spectacular to view, but would show off the expanding capabilities of Corian solid surface. Who better to bring onboard for the project than famous French designer Christian Ghion? And so that is what he did.

The project was to be called “Corian 2.0” and would be a showroom that could be assembled at the event and would feature three separate components, a kitchen, a bathroom and a lounge. The overall idea was to combine innovative solutions for our increasingly digital society with the high-quality design capable with solid surface and top class furnishings. The project was to feature translucency with advanced lighting and electronic systems in a way that also showcased the company’s new and exclusive manufacturing process, DeepColor™ Technology.

The Men Behind the Design

Born in 1958 in France, Ghion earned a law degree before deciding to study design. He graduated in 1987 from the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de la création industrielle (ENSCI) and went on to win the prestigious “Grand Prix de la création de la ville de Paris” in 1990. His unique designs and artistic vision that focuses on imaginative functionality has since led him to work for a variety of well-known furniture manufacturers. His successes have driven his work to now be found in such honorific locales as the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, as well as the Guggenheim Museum New York. It is these laurels that made him the top choice for designing the display.

When employed to develop a concept, Ghion knew just who to turn to for assistance — renown European fabricator Thierry Delles of Créa Diffusion. Créa Diffusion has among its conquests some of the most complex and unique solid surface projects in the world, including work at the Palace of Versailles, the headquarters of the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg and

cladding the entire exterior of the Abidjan Convention Center in the Ivory Coast of Africa, just to name a few.

Ghion and Delles had worked together in the past on other solid surface projects and had established not only a successful business relationship, but also a friendship. Bach had also worked with Delles and knew how adept his operation was, so when they turned to him for assistance, it was a perfect match both in capabilities and personalities.

Getting Started

After an initial meeting to discuss the project, see the prototype of the new colors and lay out the parameters, Delles found himself a bit surprised when Ghion asked to come to his shop to look around and get a “little refresher course” on solid surface and the equipment in the workshop. Delles knew Ghion was very familiar with both his company and the properties of solid surface, but was impressed to have a designer that was so interested in all of the intimate details of the fabrication processes and equipment.

“First thing, Ghion went to the waste containers, found some small scraps from previous jobs, some of which had intricate etchings and reliefs, and began to study them,” explained Delles. “He looked at them from above, below, on the side, under the light and asked how the work was done and if the projects they were used in were successful. He wanted the operations of each machine explained and asked why a particular thing was done. It was almost like a child exploring. He liked to see, to feel and even to smell all the possibilities of the material with one obsession — to not lose something that could feed his creativity.”

After the tour of the shop, which included in-depth looks at Créa’s custom products shop, industrial products area, and molding and thermoforming area, Ghion left with the inspiration he needed to formulate a design.

Two weeks later he phoned Bach and Delles to offer four completely different

Mobile showroom highlights this material’s capabilitiesBy Kevin Cole, Editor

Super Black kitchen made with DuPont™ Corian®, created for “Corian® 2.0” exhibition (Milan, April 2014); design Christian Ghion, production Créa Diffusion; photo Leo Torri for DuPont™ Corian®; all rights reserved on design and photo.


project options. Bach was very excited; Delles was a little bit less so. The work was definitely complex and used shapes that could be very difficult to create. However, Delles was up to the challenge, and together the three discussed the options and selected one of the proposals.

The selected design, which encompassed all three of the required areas, included an eye-catching kitchen space dominated by a wonderful kitchen island with multifunctional wall system entirely fabricated in solid surface. Called “Super Black,” the kitchen incorporates high-quality appliances by Gaggenau, a special wireless smartphone recharger from Powermat Technologies also offering networking capabilities, functional hardware for cabinets from Blum and a tap made by Fir Italia.

The bathroom space would use elegant furnishings and accessories designed and produced in solid surface that also incorporated the wireless recharging system

and have a beautiful backlit solid surface wall that featured intricate engraved relief patterns.

The lounge space focused on a new decorative solution for interior environments — the Ambium® Dynamic LEDwall by Koledo — combined with furnishings from Moroso, also including several solid surface products. This space also proposed a new solid surface bar table concept called “Blackground.” The table is characterized by a bold black and white pattern, includes Powermat’s devices for wireless recharging and operates as a virtual computer thanks to a system by Connecting Technology.

Because of the size of the project and the limited time frame to complete it (about six weeks from start to completion), additional fabricators would have to be brought in to handle the various pieces and applications.

While Créa Diffusion assisted with portions of the other two parts of the project, its main focus was on the Super Black kitchen display, which it handled completely. The bathroom was mainly fabricated by Rexa Design, with Créa doing the backlit wall. And the lounge area was made through a combination of efforts by three fabricators: Gielisssen, which fabricated the LEDwall; TechLab Italia, which fabricated various solid surface furnishings; and Créa, which built the solid surface bar table.

Fabrication Challenges in the Kitchen

With most of his efforts focused on the Super Black kitchen, Delles and his crew dove right in and made the project their own.

“The first step when you have this kind of work is to understand the essential spirit of the project and main message the designer wants to convey,” explained Delles. “We are not here to change the design of a project like this. After

understanding the project, we must adapt our work to make it a reality.”

And while Créa Diffusion is well versed in adapting to these types of projects, it wasn’t without its difficulties. The main issues that had to be overcome were the complex engraving, the use of dark colors and the dynamic shapes prescribed by the design.

When it came to the engraved vertical surfaces, Créa definitely had the upper hand, having performed and perfected this sort of work in the past. “The different patterns were inspired from other works that Créa Diffusion had done previously, like one of the walls in the Palace of Versailles, a facade done in Paris and another from a bathroom in Côte d’Azur (the French Riviera) in the south of France,” said Delles. “Overall, there were six different relief aspects; some were created by an engraving CNC process, while others were made using double-mold thermoforming.”

However, the design called for these panels to really stand out boldly, so adapting the engraving process to the patterns called for was just the first step in the process.

“One of Ghion’s main ideas was to mingle the

Créa Diffusion had to refine its sanding technique to bring this black DeepColor Technology Corian countertop up to a high-gloss finish in a way that would hold up to a lot of exposure from the public.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRÉA DIFFUSION

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRÉA DIFFUSION

Over a six-week period, 33 sheets of solid surface were cut, thermoformed, engraved, joined and backlit for this project which took 1,365 man-hours to fabricate.

The completed kitchen featured an island base made of Deep Nocturne, a top made of Deep Night Sky and a backlit sink in Glacier Ice Corian.

Super Black kitchen made with DuPont™ Corian, created for “Corian®2.0” exhibition (Milan, April 2014); design Christian Ghion, production Créa Diffusion; photo Leo Torri for DuPont™ Corian®; all rights reserved on design and photo.


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About Your Business

dark and the light, so we used LEDs to back-light colored translucent panels which gave more relief to the engraving,” explained Delles.

Another challenge, which Delles thought would be the toughest going into the project, was the fact that all of the main pieces of furniture

were designed using varying shades of black Corian: Deep Nocturne, Deep Night Sky, Deep Black Quartz and Deep Anthracite. “Darker colors do not have a good reputation as being easy to work with,” he explained. “They tend to show imperfections easier and are historically tougher to thermoform. And when a company

works [on a project] for a show, that means it is exposed to the eyes of its colleagues and before its competitors and critics, leaving no room to fail!”

Additionally, the design called for the worktop to be sanded to a high-gloss finish, which is typically tougher on black solid surface, and the finish would have to hold up to the exposure to large crowds at the show — not an easy prospect.

Prior to this project nobody had worked with the new Deep Colors technology. The idea behind the technology was that darker colors would be more durable and less prone to show wear because of a technique used in the manufacturing process. This technique made for material that, when scratched, would scratch dark instead of white like typical dark colors of solid surface.

“The solid surface sheets had to be thermoformed into difficult 3-D shapes, and the colors were new for us and untested,” said

The multifunctional wall system (from left to right) included backlit Glacier Ice; Deep Black Quartz; Glacier Ice with a niche in backlit Lime Ice; Deep Anthracite; and backlit Blueberry Ice Corian.



Delles. But that didn’t stop him in the least. A CNC machine was used to make the thermoforming molds, and both vacuum and hydraulic presses were used to thermoform the sheets. Much to Delles’ pleasant surprise, the thermoforming was able to be performed without any whitening of the heated and formed material.

“This new black Deep Color Technology gave us very, very nice results,” shared Delles. “They were easier to glue, producing totally invisible seams and we were able to sand them to a high gloss.”

The Créa Diffusion team had to refine the sanding process to allow for the exposure the furniture would receive from the public (see Figure 1), and the sanding time to reach a high gloss had to be increased, but the end result impressed even Delles. “When all is said and done, I am a fabricator with no preference of brand, but I can say that this new technology, DCT, brings more to this special type of project, and we did other work with this material since this project with the same success.”

While hardly boasting that a project of this complexity was easily performed, Delles did give much of the credit to the skills of Créa’s team, who put in a total of 1,365 man-hours over the course of six weeks.

The project took a total of 33 sheets of material — 20 sheets of standard ½-in. material, eight sheets of ¼-in. material and five sheets just to perform testing on to refine the techniques used. And when it was finished, it would certainly face scrutiny by both the designer who had envisioned it and by the public who would see it firsthand in Milan.

The Finished Product

The completed kitchen featured an island base made of Deep Nocturne, a top made of Deep Night Sky and a backlit sink in Glacier Ice Corian. The multifunctional wall system included backlit Glacier Ice; Deep Black Quartz; Glacier Ice with a niche in backlit Lime Ice; Deep Anthracite; and backlit Blueberry Ice Corian. And it all came together exquisitely.

Ghion was extremely happy with the finished results and seeing his vision of the Super Black kitchen come together through the hard

Circle RS#10 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.ISFA Member since 2013

Famous French Designer Christian Ghion shows off the culmination of his design skills and Créa Diffusion’s fabrication skills in the form of the “Super Black” kitchen display at the Milan Furniture Fair.


International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 4 • 25 Circle RS#11 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


work of the Créa Diffusion team. “In this shrine-like environment, the kitchen embodies and further reinforces the aesthetic qualities and new potential — in terms of formability, engraving and resistance — of the black colors of Corian made with the DeepColor Technology,” said Ghion. “The fundamental idea, invite the visitor to see the kitchen with new eyes, the kitchen becomes the ‘choir.’ Like mountains overshadowing valleys, both black and translucent panels dominate over the rounded, sensual and generous forms of the island. Light creates relief effects, inviting one to look and touch.”

And the bathroom and lounge areas were no less impressive in his eyes.

“The bathroom space is like a treasure chest, at the same time majestic and delicate, characterized by the contrast of black and white Corian,” he said. “A white wall, finely decorated and backlit, intensifies the entire display.”

Ghion likened the lounge area “to a space suspended between the material and the digital, the real and the virtual world” with wireless recharging and Internet connectivity mingled with a backdrop of large solid surface panels that project video images in harmony with the lounge. “In this universe, all the elements concur to demonstrate the material performance associated with different electronic and lighting solutions,” he said.

Final Results

In the end, all three of the prominent figures in the project — Ghion, Delles and Bach — had something they could really be proud of that accomplished the goals set forth on time and on budget. However, the real proof of success was how it was received by the professionals attending the fair, and that did not disappoint.

The DuPont booth registered one of the largest number of visitors ever at its booth and quite a buzz was created among the design and fabrication community, who commented how the project was not only aesthetically appealing, but also advanced the market.

Because of its success in Milan, it was decided that the display should be taken to other shows across Europe, including the 100% Design Fair in London and the Fair Interior in Courtrai, Belgium, where it received equal fanfare. One attendee of the expo in Belgium even inquired about buying the kitchen and having it adapted to his flat in Brussels!

When all was said and done, the objectives were met spectacularly in a way that showcases applications of the new DeepColor tones of Corian, while combining devices for the wireless charging and networking of smartphones with the design capability of solid surface. This enabled visitors to better understand the meaning of smart surfaces, and directly experience solutions that will become increasingly popular in daily life. But, this may only be the beginning.

“We are far from having extracted [Corian’s] full potential, and there are many new application fields that remain to be explored through our collaboration with industry and creative minds,” concluded Bach.

For more information on Christian Ghion, visit www.christianghion.com.

For more information on Créa Diffusion, visit www.crea-diffusion.com.

For more information on Corian® 2.0, visit www.corian2-0.com. A video about the Super Black kitchen and Corian® 2.0 exhibition can be viewed at http://youtu.be/HqlMQ-ULceE.

Editor and Publisher Kevin Cole can be reached at [email protected].


By Jeffrey Smith

O ne of the overlooked areas of solid

surface fabrication throughout the years has been the router bit used for solid surface sinks. There are a lot of choices out there, but how were they designed and who can make sense of which bit goes with which sink? What makes a good bit? And, why do some bits work better than others? These are some of the questions I set out to answer and will discuss here.

For the past 20 years, I have worked around the edges of the questions. Having run a fabrication shop that installed 30 to 50 solid surface vanity bowls a day, I realized that a good, clean route of the sink could save a lot of time and effort. At that time, I worked with one of the router bit manufacturers to fine-tune my bearings, which I had custom made. We were able to produce vanity tops with minimal sanding, just because of the bearing. However, there are other ways to improve on the surface finish after routing.

But before I get into all of that, let’s start with the basics.

Anatomy of a Router Bit

By examining the anatomy of a router bit, the jargon becomes clearer to avoid confusion (see

Figure 1). In this diagram, the ½-in. by 1 ⅝ in.-shaft is connected to the router bit (tool) body. The typical bit is a two-flute bit with silver brazed C2 or C3 grade carbide cutters. At the bottom is the journal, or bearing ride where the retaining screw holds the rubber-sealed bearing. The steel part is machined out of a single piece of high-quality steel. The steel bearing is sealed in rubber and covered with delrin (a nylon type of plastic), so the bearing will not mar the sink surface.

As mentioned above, the delrin bearing is key to a good, clean rout and prevents marring the sink as it rides on the sink as a guide. However, the size of a bit is also very important. The most common router bit design has a ½-in. cutting radius as well as a 1 ½-in. cutting area that extends below the glue line so that the glue is

trimmed, and the bearing can ride below the glue line.

The draft of the router bit is also a critical factor (see Figure 2). And to choose a bit with the correct draft, the design of the bowl must be taken into account. When choosing a bit for a sink, it is important to know the draft of the sink. This can often be determined by the specification sheet for the sink, or it may be available on the manufacturer’s website. The draft of the sink should be consistent around the bowl. The more consistent the draft of the sink, the better the rout and the easier the sanding will be (assuming you have picked the correct bit).

Saving time with router bits newly designed for

solid surface sinks

½" x 1⅝" Tool Shaft

Steel Tool Body

Carbide Cutter Face

Bearing Ride

Ø 15° BearingDraft Angle

Router Bit Anatomy

Low-profile Set Bearing Set Screw

Nonmarring Delrin Bearing

Ø 15° CutterDraft Angle

Figure 1 – An understanding of the anatomy of a router bit will help to choose the best bit for the job.

Figure 2 – The draft of a bit is an important feature in getting the best rout on a vanity sink placement.


The basic rule of thumb is the draft of the router bit should be 4 to 5 degrees more than the draft of the bowl (see Figure 3). Certainly 3 degrees is a minimum, but may leave a little glue behind. One must remember that the majority, if not all, of the solid surface sinks are hand-sanded and inspected at the same time at the sink factory. If there is a minor imperfection, the sander may be a little more aggressive to remove the imperfection; this in turn may change the bowl draft slightly. This is the main reason for the over-drafting of the router bit cut vs. the bowl. The sander may lip the bowl slightly, too. By cutting slightly into the bowl, these issues are removed. However, if the cutting is too much, the cut “beaks” and that can lead to too much sanding, thus costing time and money (see Figure 4). So, when choosing a bit for a sink with a 10-degree draft, the ideal bit would have a draft of 14 to 15 degrees.

Chomping at the Bit for Changes

Over the course of the past few months, with the help of Whiteside, Velepec, Amana and one other OEM manufacturer, that did not wish to be mentioned, bits have been redesigned to work better for this application (see Figure 5). As the product designer for Gemstone, I felt it was necessary to get the best heads together and make the sink and bowl routing experience

better for the fabricators. With a correctly designed and engineered bit, I am confident that a fabricator can save as much as 10 to 15 minutes of sanding per bowl or sink! If you were to apply that savings to back when I was routing 30 to 50 bowls a day, you would come up with between five and 12 hours of saved labor every day. Over the course of a year (five days a week), the savings would add up to between 1,300 and 3,120 hours. At a pay rate of $10 per hour, savings could be as high as $31,000 in a single year.

Efficiency in this area, for me, was very important for my labor budget. As I mentioned earlier, I previously tried to accomplish this by reducing the size of the delrin bearing to accommodate the fact that the draft of the bearing did not match the draft of the cutter. However, it makes much more sense to use bits that are designed for this purpose.

So, what has changed with the newly redesigned bits? The angle, or draft of the bearing, was changed so that it matches the cutter angle. And, the bearing overall diameter was reduced so that the bearing now lines up with the cutter. This allows the cutter to do its job well. With this bit modification, the bit should now do a better job of removing the flash, or glue line, around the bowl while leaving a nice smooth transition from the top to the bowl. It is this smooth transition and lack of remaining flash that will allow for a much speedier sanding operation.

Figure 6 is a chart with the specifics of the newly redesigned Whiteside, Velepec and Amana router bits. I hope you will support their efforts to help you improve your routing experience for solid surface bowls.

Other Areas for Savings

In addition to router bit design, an area that is often overlooked is router bit maintenance. To extend the life of the cutters and bearings, a few simple steps can be taken. The cutter should be clean and sharpness checked frequently. Increased noise while routing is the first giveaway that a bit is too dull, but I often use my fingernail to check the sharpness (of course with the router off and unplugged!). If it does not shave my nail when I scrape it, the bit should be changed. Dull bits will reduce the life of your router and can damage material by ripping.

When it is determined that the bit is dull, a professional service should be used for sharpening. When the bit is sharpened, it is face sharpened. This is typical, and because

Ø 0.50 Shank

Solid Surface Countertop

Solid Surface Adhesive (Flash)

Bit Cuts Barely into Sink

Delrin Bearing Rides Below Glue Line

Solid Surface Sink

Router bit should cut 4-5 degrees more than bowl draft

Figure 3 – Choosing the correct router bit for the job can save a lot of time in the sanding process.

Figure 4 – Using a bit with the proper draft can mean the difference between a bad rout (top) which will require intensive finishing and a rout that will mean very little sanding (bottom).

Figure 5 – Working with tooling manufacturers, new bits have been developed to accommodate the sink routing process.


the cutter edge is at an angle, when the face of the carbide is removed, the overall diameter of the bit is reduced slightly. This may impact the performance of the bit. With yesterday’s designs, this was more of a problem. The reduction in diameter is about 15/1000 in. I used to have bearings made with that reduction so that I was able to maintain an excellent rout after sharpening. With today’s redesign, this will be less of an issue, but a slightly reduced derlin bearing will keep the results you are looking for.

Additionally, the life of the bit can be extended by running it at a proper speed. One common mistake is that large cutter bits (usually with an overall diameter of 2 ⅛ in.) are run too fast. With a high horsepower variable-speed router, the bit needs to slow down. Bits of this size should be run at 16,000 rpm. Faster is not better and will generate too much heat. When running on wood too fast, the routers will actually burn the wood. Similarly, running too fast on solid surface can create more sanding, dull the bits too quickly and even shorten the life of the router. The shaft of the router bit is 1 ⅝ in., and 1 ⅜ in. to 1 ½ in. of that should be in the collet of the router. Be sure not to push the

bit in all the way to its cove, but the cove of the bit should be close to the collet for maximum bit stabilization and performance.

Another important maintenance issue is checking the set screw periodically, as well as checking that the bearing free spins. If the bearing is not free spinning, it is a good idea to lubricate it. When lubricating the bearing, solvent-based lubricants should NOT be used because they have a tendency to remove the grease that protects the bearings. Be sure to find lubricants designed for bearings.

By using the right bits, the right bearings and taking advantage of the new bit designs, as well as making sure you are performing the proper maintenance, you can save time and money when routing your sinks and bowl to solid surface countertops. This should lead to many hours of much more happy fabricating!

About the AuthorJeff Smith is the sales, marketing and design manager for Gemstone Solid Surface and has been involved in the surfacing industry for more than 17 years. He can be reached at [email protected] or at (520) 954-1700.


Redesigned Router Bits for Solid Surface Sinks

Velepec / www.velepectools.com

½" Radius Draft of Bit Bearing

30-155TG 10° 12-610

30-157TG 15° 12-615

30-140TG 20° 12-620

Whiteside / www.whitesiderouterbits.com


2910 10° BB300

2915 15° BB315

2918 18° BB318

Amana / www.amanatool.com


57267 10° 47787

57158 14° 47731

57269 18° 47788 Note: Please contact the manufacturer for availability.

Figure 6 – This chart shows the tool and bearing part numbers for the newly redesigned router bits for solid surface sinks.


Specialty Surfaces Fabricators, Manufacturers and Experts

Membership ApplicationMain: (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.ISFANow.org

Renewal Instructions: To renew your membership with ISFA, simply fill out the Personal Information section, and Payment Method and that’s it! Fax it back to (412) 487-3269 and we’ll do the rest. Please allow 2-4 weeks for your membership renewal packet to be delivered. New Member Instructions: For Surfacing Experts wanting to become a new member, please fill out the entire form. Membership in ISFA is the industry endorsement of high quality. This endorsement cannot be purchased for the price of membership, but must be established by the company and upheld by each member of the organization. Fax this form back to (412) 487-3269 and we’ll do the rest.Your new membership packet will be in the mail shortly. Please allow 2-4 weeks for delivery.

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


I Am: q Renewing My ISFA Membership q Applying to Become a New Member


Method of Payment

q I am faxing a copy of the check along with this form. (required if paying by check)

Card Type: q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Discover

Card Number: Print Name on Card:

Expiration Date: Official Signature: If paying by check, fax copy along with this order form. You can also mail this form to: ISFA, 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044.

New Member Information

Type of Membership: (please select one)

ISFA Membership: $400 — Any Specialty Surfaces company that has been in business at least two years and carries appropriate liability insurance. Subscriber Membership: $400 — Applicant companies which meet all other qualifications, but have been in business for less than two years shall be eligible for Subscriber Membership in the Association.

Branch Membership: $200 — Branch Membership is available to companies having more than one location. Each location must fill out seperate membership applications. Branch Membership annual dues are one-half that of the headquarters location. Each location wlll be treated as a separate member in all respects, except only headquarter locations may vote in general elections.

q

q

q

Sponsorship Information: In order to become a member of ISFA, you need to provide information regarding an ISFA member or company willing to sponsor you. If you do not know what to put in this section, just leave it blank. We will help you with this.

Sponsor Company:

Contact Person: Telephone: Trade Reference: (Please provide a trade reference, generally your distributor of solid surface.) Trade Reference:

Contact Person: Telephone:

Proof of Insurance: A copy of your certificate of liability insurance must be attached to or faxed with this form to process this application.Code of Ethics (please sign below)

Each member of the International Surface Fabricators Association agrees to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of their business. By adhering strictly to the highest quality standards of fabrication, manufacturing and installation. By promoting only those products and services that are proven quality and value. By writing contracts and warranties that are clear, honest and fair to all parties involved. By honoring all contractual obligations in a reasonably prompt manner. By quickly acting on and attempting to resolve all customer complaints, and in situations where complaints appear unreasonable and persistent, by encouraging the customer to initiate and approach third-party dispute settlement mechanisms. By being fiscally responsible and honoring all legitimate financial obligations. By maintaining all required licenses and insurances.I,_______________________________, do hereby certify that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and do agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of the International Surface Fabricators Association for as long as I hold an active membership therein.


The Top Determining Factor Behind Every Sale By Kirk Heiner

T here are numerous elements that can affect your sale. Buying decisions

are influenced by a myriad of key factors: price, quality, relationships, trust, risks, brand, warranty and the list goes on. However, only one factor is at the root of every single decision and is the final determiner in every purchase decision. Every person involved in selling needs to know it.

Before we expose this ultimate driver that’s affecting every one of your sales, I want to back up one step and address a glaring issue in our industry. That is a lack of perceivable differentiation between companies selling countertops.

We all feel our offering is unique, and perhaps that’s true. However, to the customer visiting our showroom for the first time, that uniqueness is not so apparent. The truth is, on first blush most companies appear to be very much alike. This is a critical clue leading us to the single greatest determining factor of the sale.

Let me ask you a question. How do you differentiate your company to a client? What do you say? Are you bigger? Better? Family-owned? Have you been around the longest? Do you have greater inventory? And does that really matter to your potential customer? Difference only helps the sale when the customer perceives that difference as meaningful and valuable.

The Single Biggest Determining Factor

This brings us to the one factor that determines every single buying decision. What is it? It’s value. Value is king when it comes to sales. When we shop, we are ultimately all looking to compare the value of products and service providers.

We look for differences between companies and products to make these comparisons.

We seek to understand the differences between offerings to determine what to buy and from whom. We read literature to understand product benefits and listen to what the salesperson says about his or her company. We visit review sites to see what others say about their experience with a company. We try to weigh the value of each company we are considering. Who’s better? Who’s cheaper? What are the potential risks of a poor choice?

When we don’t perceive much of a difference, price wins. That is why it is so important for our industry to differentiate ourselves from the herd during the sales conversation.

The Job of a Sales Professional

Your job as a salesperson is to build value in the mind of the potential customer for what you uniquely offer. When the perceived value of what you offer exceeds the cost, the sale is made. Until that point is reached, they will choose lower price because the money in their bank has a greater value than the difference you appear to offer.

Sales professionals must become experts at building value. It’s a skill like any other and can be learned. We must develop mastery at building up the perception of value in the mind of the customer. We must be clear in building our case for the real value we bring to the customer. The key is to communicate how that value is unique, relevant and important.

If you want people to buy what you’re selling, it starts with understanding how people make their buying decisions. We all want to feel safe in our buying decisions. We want to know we are getting a good value for our money. So we look for value comparisons. We look for differences in companies that provide similar products.

When we don’t perceive any difference between companies or a product, it makes our decision difficult. We lean toward saving the money and choosing the lower price, or maybe the second lowest. Most buyers know that the lowest price carries with it the risk of a bad job.

Clarity helps customers choose wisely. Your goal should be to provide clarity of the differences between your company and the competition, between your products and processes and theirs.

A Common Question

In 14 years of selling countertops through our five retail showrooms, I noticed that the single most common question consumers ask is, “What does an average kitchen cost?” I finally created a very elegant Q & A poster that addressed this common question. It stated, “Q: What does an average kitchen cost? A: It doesn’t matter, nobody wants an average kitchen.” It actually caused them to stop and think about what it was they really wanted.

Today they may walk in and ask, “What is your price for level 1 granite?” They are trying to position you in their mind. Are you Macy’s or Walmart? Are you the low price leader or a quality player?

Studies show that the average American consumer is willing to pay up to 50 percent more, if they see a perceived difference in value or quality. That’s only if they see a perceivably higher value. The rise of quartz countertops is proof of this powerful truth. People are perfectly willing to spend more if you give them a good reason why. Often, we simply don’t give them powerful enough reasons.

What Buyers Are Looking for

Buyers look for value comparisons between products and service providers as a way to help

International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 7 / Issue 4 • 31 Circle RS#13 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

make the right decision. That’s why an educated customer is better for everyone except the low price leader.

When we educate our customers about our products, processes and the value differences we offer, we make it easier for customers to make good decisions and help them better understand why we should be their first choice.

Without clearly differentiating, we are simply putting together bids and hoping for the best. We may land some, but not because we were helpful or professional in selling. The better we do our job as salespeople, the easier it is for the client to make a decision.

The biggest money question nobody’s asking is, “How much more could you have sold, if you had clear, demonstrable reasons why customers should choose your company?” I guarantee even your accountant doesn’t have the answer to that one.

Here’s an even bigger question: “What would happen to your company if you

demonstrated an undeniably greater value to every prospect?

The Value Difference Makers

As buyers search for value along their pathway to purchase, they look for differences in a few key areas. Here are some to consider:

■ Quality of materials ■ Quality in workmanship ■ Timeliness and professionalism

of service ■ Warranty ■ Strength and integrity

of the company ■ Brands we trust ■ Connection with the company

or salesperson

Risk or Potential Issues

They also look for assurances of what they will receive in exchange for their hard-earned money. They ask themselves, “Have others I know trusted them? Who have they worked for in the past? Is this company’s higher price worth it? Is it safe to go with the lowest price? What are the possible outcomes of my decision?” All buyers want to save money, but they also want avoid the regret of making a poor decision.

Your job, and the job of every single person selling for your company, is to build perceived value in your product offering. However, I’m amazed at how many people in sales in our industry think it’s all about price. Actually, it’s almost never solely about price. If that were true, quartz would not be expanding while less expensive materials are declining.

How is it that buyers are willing to pay sometimes twice the price to have quartz over granite when 10 years ago in some markets, you couldn’t give it away? Simple, perceived value.

Sales guru Jeffery Gitomer says, “Sales comes down to four words: perceived value, perceived difference.” He nailed it. That is one of the smartest statements on sales I’ve ever heard. We need to understand the power of that simple concept. Perceived difference and perceived value tip the scales in every selling

Nine Key Elements That Build ValueHere are some common things valued by consumers.You should think through and plan out how to convey each one:

1. Proof of higher quality product

2. Proof of higher quality craftsmanship

3. Guarantee

4. Zero maintenance

5. A trustworthy sales rep

6. Company reputation

7. Recommendation of a friend

8. Feeling comfortable with a company or salesperson

9. Comfort about the decision



circumstance. If they don’t see the value, they won’t pay more. It’s as simple as that. If they don’t see difference, they look to price.

Defining Value

So, what is value? A textbook definition may read along these lines: “the regard that something is held to deserve; the importance, worth, or usefulness of something.”

So, what determines value? Value is worth placed upon a product or service offering by one person alone — the buyer. Value, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. If they don’t see it, it doesn’t exist. This is one time where perception is reality. Until you get them to see a greater value in what you’re selling, the odds are stacked against you.

How do we build value? What are the building blocks that create value? Every customer has a different set of things they consider important. Some value convenience, while others insist on higher quality. One shopper may prefer to buy from someone they trust while another buys solely on price.

This is where smart sales people do what I call “discovery.” Discovery is getting to know and

understand what a potential customer values most. It’s done through asking a series of key questions designed to uncover their true buying priorities.

A great question to ask a customer is, “When I say the word countertops, what one word comes to mind?” This question will tell you a lot about what frustrates them or what excites them.

In his book, The Big Book of Sales, author Alan Gordon refers to building value as, “the neglected sales skill.” He’s right. Most salespeople are not skilled at all at building value in the customer’s mind. It can actually be quite simple, but requires that we learn how buyers think.

Shoppers think so many different thoughts during their shopping experience. What will this look like? What will it cost? How will it perform? What could go wrong? How long will it take? Will they stand behind the product? These are the clues that lead us to the foundation of building value in the mind of the consumer.

The Reason Value Propositions Don’t Work

There has been a lot written in sales and marketing books over the past 20 years on

creating a strong “value proposition.” The concept is to develop one strong message about how your company or product is uniquely superior. While that may work for some products, it doesn’t work so well for service industries like ours.

If you are like most countertop companies, you serve many different types of clients: homeowners, home builders, remodelers, designers, etc. Each one has a different set of things they consider of utmost importance to them.

Value is established by the buyer. It only matters if they say it matters.

A home builder might consider reliability and being on time the greatest values, while a homeowner might value trust or assurance of quality. Often consumers trust their builder or designer, and that trust is the single biggest driver in whom they do business with. In every buying outcome, value is at its center.

I’ve known design firms where if I came in, did the project for free and offered to hand them $1,000 for the opportunity to do their work, they’d still say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” Why? Their relationship and trust built up with their fabricator


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was their greatest value. In an industry like ours one single value proposition doesn’t fit all.

So, you need a quiver full of arrows that can penetrate the heart of any buyer. You choose which one is right for the situation. That’s where discovery comes in.

You want to perform discovery in every sales situation. Discovery is the well thought through series of questions designed to uncover the buyer’s most important value buttons. Here’s where you want to ask great questions.

Great questions are unlike those your competition is asking. Ask questions that establish value in what you offer, all while sorting out their biggest drivers and hot buttons. Every salesperson should have a list of at least 20 questions they can use in the discovery phase of a sales conversation.

James Perly, of Perly Consulting Group, said of his new closing method, “We beat our customers over the head with a value stick until they close us and ask us to buy. The whole meeting is about how we’ll deliver massive value to the customer.”

Countering Low Price with Value

If a prospect says, “I can get cheaper, at ABC company,” what do you say? Simply tell them, “Yes, you’re right. There are cheaper companies out there. So how do you think they are getting away with charging less? What corners are they cutting in order to get that low price? Do you think they are using lesser quality workmen, or lower quality products?”

You might simply say, “Lowest price and high value almost never go together.”

For every buyer in every purchasing decision, there will always be a hierarchy of values in their mind. Sometimes we are able to add new concepts to that value equation. When a client would walk in and ask, “How much do your granites cost?”, I would ask, “So then quality doesn’t matter?”

I would continue and say, “Did you know that granites come in three quality levels?” Now I have them thinking about other things than just price. Often that became a new significant factor in their decision. I was also surprised to note that the client would almost always say, “You know,

you’re the only person that’s told me that.” To which my answer was, “Of course, if you were only buying seconds or even worse third quality, why would you bring up quality as an issue?”

The concept of building value is perhaps the greatest skill you and your sales team can develop. It won’t happen overnight. It takes a little time and effort, but the payoff is enormous. Try it and see if you agree. Value truly is the ultimate tool in selling.

About the AuthorKirk Heiner has been in the home building and countertop industry for more than 30 years. He’s an author and sales coach, having done training and seminars for corporations like Lowe’s, DuPont, Stock Building Supply, KBIS, the National Kitchen & Bath Association and many more. He is the chief marketing

officer for KB Express and can be reached at [email protected].

By Karin Deutschler

While the homogeneous composition of solid surface material doesn’t generally pose particular machining challenges, there are great ways to reduce your overall tooling expense, increase tool life, improve finish, reduce downtime and maintain a smoother work flow by selecting the correct cutting tool for the application.

Tooth Design

Although most saw blades look similar, on closer inspection there are marked differences in tooth design/grind, angle and tooth count that affect the quality of cut and how long the blade will perform well before getting dull. These differences in tooth geometries are the result of much research and testing, to accommodate the wide range of materials and composite panels that all present their own unique cutting characteristics. For cutting solid surface material, the tooth design that provides the longest, cleanest cutting performance is a modified alternate top bevel (ATB) blade (see Figure 1). This tooth shape, prevalent on carbide-tipped solid surface blades, extends the tool life over a more common alternate top or triple chip blade and a provides a great cut.

Inserts and PCD Tooling

If saw blades are not providing the quality of finish that is desired and additional sanding is needed to obtain a true match, then it’s time to consider taking a leap of faith that will pay off in a big way. Polycrystalline diamond tipped (PCD) saw blades are a perfect fit for solid surface material. While the diamond saw blade has a higher up-front cost, it will save a lot of money in the course of its life. The return on investment will be self-evident very quickly. As Gus Blume, owner of Blume’s Solid Surface in Freeport, Pa., put it: “The finish of a diamond saw blade on solid surface material is second to none.”

Blume knows what he is talking about as Blume’s made that leap of faith to use PCD blades more than 10 years ago. Today, the company has virtually eliminated any need for sanding to get a perfect match right off the saw.

For achieving various profile edges, backsplashes, bullnose, cove and round-over profiles, another way to reduce tool cost is to invest in carbide insert (see Figure 2) or diamond tipped router tooling (see Figure 3); both can yield impressive paybacks. Because carbide insert tooling uses inserts that are swapped out when the blade gets dull instead of resharpening, it will always retain accuracy of profile and cutting diameter throughout

Solid Surface Machining: Keys to Cost Savings

Figure 1 – For cutting solid surface material, a great tooth design that provides long, clean cutting performance is a modified alternate top bevel (ATB) blade.




its life. This will help prevent unnecessary or excessive finishing. A diamond tipped router bit will not only outlast a carbide tipped tool by many times longer, it will also provide a much smoother surface finish. While the selection of insert tools available for use on hand routers with bearing guides is restricted to smaller trimming profiles due to design limitations,

diamond tipped profile tools for use on hand routers are fairly common and available for round-overs, bevels and straight cuts with a bearing guide included.

Solid Carbide Bits

For straight routing (parting and peripheral cuts) on CNC machining centers, solid carbide up-

Figure 2 – Carbide insert tooling, such as this 2-flute carbide insert router bit from GUHDO mounted in an HSK Tool Holder, can help avoid lessening blade accuracy caused by sharpening.

Figure 3 – Diamond tipped profile tools for use on hand routers are fairly common and like the GUHDO tools shown here are available for round-overs (top), bevels (middle) and straight cuts (bottom), with bearing guides included.




shear router bits provide excellent cut quality and tool life and are the tool of choice for most solid surface CNC parting cuts. Solid carbide rougher bits are also a good choice for cuts where the finish is not critical or exposed.

V-grooving

Accurate V-grooving of solid surface material requires a tool designed specifically for this nonporous composite. Standard V-Groove bits for wood feature a 91-degree included angle to accommodate naturally occurring expansion and contraction of wood. Solid surface material, on the other hand, does not need this expansion capability and a true 90-degree tool is preferred for a better, more accurate mitre fold.

Chip Load

A critical consideration to remember if cutting tools are expected to perform well, achieve optimum tool life and produce an excellent finish, is the importance of machining solid surface materials in the proper chip load range. Depending on the tool diameter, that can be 0.002 to 0.012 in. The smaller the tool diameter, the smaller the chip will be. For solid surface material, follow the approximate chip load ranges by diameter provided here:

⅛-in. diameter = 0.002-0.004 in.

¼-in. diameter = 0.006-0.009 in.

⅜-in. diameter = 0.008-0.010 in.

½-in. diameter and up = 0.010-0.012 in.

Operating outside of this range can result in overheating, burning and tool breakage.

The chip load is the size of the chip created during the cutting process and is calculated as follows: chip load = feed rate in inches/(rpm x number of flutes). So, for example, if the CNC machining center is running at 18,000 rpm and a 400-in.-per-minute feed rate, a two-flute router bit would have a 0.011-in. chip load.

While it is tempting to believe that more flutes yield a better finish, this is not true and, in fact, quite the opposite is true if an appropriate increase in feed rate is not implemented to stay within the ideal chip load range.

Dust

Particularly with solid surface material, fine dust particles are always an issue. A great way to reduce dust is to use tooling that either reduces or eliminates any need for additional sanding. Another great development that provides a big advantage when machining solid surface material is an innovative dust extraction collet nut, which is available in various designs from leading tooling manufacturers. These dust reducing devices that actually replace the collet nut are designed to channel the dust particles into a whirl-wind type action and be directed to the dust system.

Whether tooling is needed for use on a hand router at an installation site or production tooling in the shop, options available to streamline production, reduce down-time, eliminate sanding and cut cost are overlooked all too often. Savvy fabricators make sure they are using the right tool for the job.

About the Author

Karin Deutschler is with GUHDO USA Inc., www.guhdo.com.

For more information on optimizing cutting tool performance, visit www.toolingblog.com.

A critical consideration to remember if cutting tools are expected to perform well, achieve optimum tool life and produce an excellent finish, is the importance of machining solid surface materials in the proper chip load range.

ISFA is pleased to announce that Chris Pappenfort has volunteered to step in and assume the role of project manager for ISFA.

Pappenfort is a 27-year veteran of the decorative surfacing industry and is currently president of Surface Menders™, a company predicated around the repair and maintenance of decorative surfacing.

During his time in the industry, he also worked as a fabrication manager for a Midwest distributor for more than 24 years. He was accredited as a Certified Instructor for Soterra® Natural Granite Systems as well as DuPont Corian® and Zodiaq® Surfaces.

Pappenfort has participated on many project teams for DuPont, launching numerous initiatives that helped fabricators’ businesses flourish.

“I am very excited to have Chris on our team,” said Keith Haight, the executive director of ISFA. “I have worked with Chris many times in the past and have always admired his knowledge, skill level, passion and willingness to step up and take initiatives head-on! This is a great day for ISFA.”

Chris Pappenfort Named ISFA Volunteer Project Manager

Here.Now.News.

On August 21, 2014 ISFA held its annual Member Meeting and Award Ceremony at the International Woodworking Fair in Atlanta, Ga. Several members were on hand to hear comments from President, Dave Paxton, Vice President, Mell Hill and Executive Director, Keith Haight. The group shared their vision for the industry as well as the vital role ISFA members play. It was a very interactive meeting where members offered their perspective and input on what the industry needs to move ahead.

Members were informed of the many events and accomplishments ISFA made in 2014 as well as what was in store for 2015 and beyond. During the opening presentations and conversations, a great lunch was shared by all followed by the presentation of Annual ISFA Awards. For 2014 the ISFA Award recipients were:

Fabricator of the Year – A.S.S.T., Allegheny, Pa. Accepting the award was owner and president, Russ Berry. A.S.S.T. is recognized not only for the amazing fabrication work done by the company on a regular basis, but also for

the tireless support the company has given to ISFA with many projects and events the association implemented.

Associate of the Year – Dixie Plywood and Lumber Company, Savannah, Ga. Accepting the award were Nelsy Leyba and Tom Heard. Dixie Plywood is recognized for its level of participation in ISFA events and activities and for its instrumental involvement in helping to design and implement one of the courses for ISFA’s Continuing Education

Program.

ISFA Hall of Fame – Mike Nolan of Windbound Surfaces. Accepting posthumously on behalf of Mike Nolan was Keith Haight. Mike was a former education director and past board member of ISFA, and his love of the industry was infectious. The mark he left on so many through the vital role he played in training and educating members will not soon be forgotten. The award was delivered to Mike’s widow Terry, who remembered fondly his passion for craftsmanship and teaching others.

International Surface Fabricators Association Names 2014 Award Winners at Annual Meeting

Upcoming ISFA Training & EventsFor more information or to sign up to attend any of these events, call (412) 487-3207 or email [email protected].

Total Fabricator Training – Stone/Quartz Hosted by Alpha Tools Jan. 26-28, 2015 Las Vegas

Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface Feb. 17-19, 2015 Chantilly, Va.

ISFA 2nd Generation CEO Roundtable Hosted by ILSD March 4-5, 2015 New Boston, Mich.

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools April 8-10, 2015 Oakland, N.J.

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface May 19-21, 2015 Chantilly, Va.

ISFA 2nd Generation CEO Roundtable June 3-4, 2015 Chantilly, Va.

ISFA Productivity Event Hosted by Indeko June 16-18, 2015 Guadalajara, Mexico

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools July 27-29, 2015 Oakland, N.J.

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Solid Surface Sept. 15-17, 2015 Chantilly, Va.

ISFA Total Fabrication Training – Quartz/Stone Hosted by Alpha Tools Oct. 5-7, 2015 Las Vegas

Russ Berry, owner and president of A.S.S.T, and ISFA’s 2014 Fabricator of the Year


Chris Pappenfort

ISFA 2015 Board of Director Election Results RevealedAs 2014 comes to a close, ISFA prepares for another exciting year by sharing the results of the 2015 board of director elections. The lineup of next year’s board of directors is a dynamic group of individuals who possess sharp business acumen and passion for this industry. The collective personalities are focused and will surely prove themselves in making ISFA more valuable for its members and the entire decorative surfaces industry.

The 2015 ISFA Board of Directors is as follows:Mell Hill (Old Castle Surfaces, Atlanta) – President

Adam Albee (Lincoln Laminating, Lincoln, Neb.) – Vice President

Ryan Miller (VT Industries, Holstein, Iowa) – Secretary

Erica Hussey (JCW Countertops, Woburn, Mass.) – Treasurer

Dave Paxton (Paxton Countertops and Showers, Grand Ledge, Mich.) – Immediate Past President

Mike Langenderfer (The Countertop Shop, Holland, Ohio) – Director (and past president)

Kate Dillenburg (Bisley Fabrication, Gresham, Wis.) – Director

Mike Woods (Creative Countertop Solutions, Nashville) – Director

John Hansen (Kohler) – Associate Member Representative

Jessica McNaughton (CaraGreen) - Associate Member Representative

ISFA recognizes Dave Paxton for his leadership as president over 2014, and for his drive to keep the association striving to always do its best no matter how small or large the task. We look forward to his continued support on the board.

The association would also like to express its

appreciation to outgoing Associate Member

Representative Jeff Smith of Gemstone. Jeff

has shared his abundant energy, great ideas

and willingness to advance ISFA to the next

level throughout his time on the board. ISFA

looks forward to more interaction with Jeff in

the future, as he has truly proven himself to

be a valuable asset to the association and the

industry.

ISFA also welcomes the newest board member,

Jessica McNaughton, president of CaraGreen,

a distribution company that focuses on

providing sustainable products and educating

professionals on the subject of sustainable

resources. ISFA looks forward to Jessica’s input

and perspective not only as a business leader,

but also from the world of sustainable materials.

Welcome aboard, Jessica!


ISFANews

ISFA Launches Free, Cost-saving Member BenefitISFA has a new benefit it is bringing to its members: The ISFA Marketplace. This program provides association members fantastic discounts on goods and services they already use for their businesses. The greatest part about this benefit is that it’s free and included with an ISFA membership! There are no additional costs or any other hidden fees to join. The ISFA Marketplace offers greater buying power from Federal Express, Staples & W.W. Grainger:

With FedEx, members can receive savings of 50 percent or more on: Domestic & International Air Express; Domestic & International Ground Service; Inbound and Outbound Services; Home Delivery; and Hazardous and Dangerous Material Handling.

Through Staples, the ISFA Marketplace offers quarterly and annual rebates from 1 to 35 percent based on collective purchases by participating members. Members can also receive discounts on more than 1,200 core items and 9,000 non-core items where prices are locked in for a period of six months. Additionally, free delivery is available on most orders.

W.W. Grainger offers a 10 percent discount on all items listed in its catalog. Members may also receive additional line-item discounts for core products ranging from 10 to 85 percent if the terms and conditions are met with the program.

And this is only the beginning. ISFA has many more vendors lined up and waiting to participate. Some are even ISFA’s members themselves. As this program grows, so will the list of participating vendors!

Interested? Don’t wait.

Take advantage of this program now. Contact us at [email protected] or call (412) 487-3207 and say “Sign me up!”

We thank our members for their loyalty and hope you enjoy this great new benefit! If you’re not a member, what are you waiting for?

MARKETPLACE

•ISFA •

ISFA Continuing Education Program ExpandsSince September of 2013, ISFA has been registered with the American Institute of

Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program. As an Approved Provider for the AIA Continuing Education System, the Continuing Education Program at ISFA has developed content for a variety of approved courses with participating ISFA members.

ISFA is responsible for the coordination of the CEU efforts, plus we provide the point-of-contact for the AIA and other professional organizations that conduct continuing education programs. The ongoing administration of the CEU programs is the responsibility of ISFA, with guidance from Continuing Education Program participants. ISFA also trains and registers presenters who will be qualified to deliver approved courses on behalf of ISFA.

The courses offer Learning Units (LU), sometimes referred to as a Continuing Education Unit (CEU); Health, Safety & Welfare credits (HSW), which hold a higher level of ranking for professional credits; or both.

The courses now offered are:

■ ADA for the Decorative Surfaces Industry — Course #ISFA13G4101 offers one (1) LU/HSW

■ Solid Surface Design Basics — Course #ISFA13SS1101 offers 1) LU/HSW

■ Understanding & Using the ISFA Quartz Standard — Course #ISFA13Q1103 offers one (1) LU/HSW

■ Surfacing Products – Healthcare Infection Control — Course #ISFA14G1101 offers one (1) LU/HSW

■ Design Basics for Sintered Compact Surfaces — Course #ISFA14SC4101 offers one (1) LU

The ISFA Continuing Education Program has four levels of participants:

1. SPONSOR: A Sponsor is an ISFA member company that, through its financial support, helps with the development and execution of ISFA’s Continuing Education Program

2. CONTRIBUTING MEMBER: A Contributing Member is an ISFA member company that provides personnel resources and content for the development of specific courses for ISFA’s Continuing Education Program

3. SUPPORTING MEMBER: A Supporting Member is an ISFA Fabricator member that, through its financial support, helps with the development and execution of ISFA’s Continuing Education Program

4. MEMBER: A Member is an ISFA member company that desires to participate in ISFA’s Continuing Education Program by providing trained and registered presenters capable of

delivering ISFA educational programs

In order to be able to use ISFA continuing education content, members must participate in the program through one of the levels indicated above. The benefits of being a participant of this program include:

■ The speaker’s personal and professional reputation as a resource for quality education and information will be recognized and maintained.

■ The provider organization will be recognized as an excellent, unbiased source of education for architects, designers and other organization requiring CEUs.

■ The AIA CES Provider Network will support practice needs and maintain its stature and credibility with State Licensing Boards as a primary source for mandatory continuing education for the architecture and design professions.

■ Architects and designers will continue to receive the quality education they have come to expect from AIA CES Registered Programs.

If you are a business looking to enhance and grow your commercial opportunities, this program needs serious consideration. Contact the ISFA office at [email protected] or call (412) 487-3207 to learn how you can take advantage of this valuable program.


ISFA is in the process of creating the Mike Nolan Scholarship fund. This scholarship recognizes the tireless efforts by Mike to educate, train and serve ISFA members. Mike was a life-long member of ISFA. He served on the board of directors and was education director, as well as an overall industry mentor and friend.

He is survived by his widow Terry and in her words, “He ate it up when given the chance to teach the

skills needed in the trade.”

Terry donated a significant amount of money to begin a scholarship on behalf of her husband that will help high school students pursue a career in the trades, so that we may not lose this valuable talent base. Mike will always be remembered as an individual who would go the extra mile in order to help someone. This scholarship is a continuation of his spirit so that he may influence others for years to come.

This is a great opportunity for all ISFA members and others to honor an individual who dedicated his career toward the greater good of the industry. Please watch for future instructions on how you can donate to this worthy cause. If you have any questions or comments, please contact the ISFA office at [email protected] or call (412) 487-3207.

Thank you! Your generosity will surely be recognized in the future development of our youth!

ISFA To Start Mike Nolan Scholarship Fund


Total Fabrication Training Programs The Total Fabrication Training (TFT) Programs are among ISFA’s flagship programs that are highly sought after by fabricators. Currently available for either solid surface or quartz/stone fabrication training, they are the most comprehensive training programs available for the decorative surfaces industry and are endorsed by leading manufacturers of surfacing products. The classes represent an opportunity for fabricators to send new employees to be trained or to pick up an entirely new skill set for their businesses.

In either the solid surface or quartz/stone version of Total Fabrication Training, basic hands-on fabrication training and instruction are provided. In two-and-a-half days students are taught fundamental and advanced concepts in the entire fabrication and installation process. Topics covered are safety, product knowledge, productivity concepts, templating, seaming, cutouts, bowl mounting processes, edge treatments, basic repairs, backsplashes, finishing, quality control and inspection, installation and support systems.

ISFA offers TFT Solid Surface classes through

our associate member SurfaceLink at its facility in Chantilly, Va., near Washington, D.C. Our TFT Quartz/Stone is provided through another associate member, Alpha Professional Tools. Alpha Tools has offered its two facilities in Las Vegas and Oakland, N.J. for this valuable training.

ISFA also recognizes not everyone will be able to leave their business to attend a TFT, therefore, we have expanded the options for this offering to include training at a local facility of their choosing. This level of training allows a fabricator to choose his or her shop or a facility in close proximity and receive the same level of training they would receive at ISFA’s established training centers.

To register or obtain information on cost, logistics and other criteria for a TFT, please go to our website at www.isfanow.org and click on the Total Fabrication Training tile at the bottom of the home page. You can also register for these training classes by filling out and submitting the forms on Pages 15 or 41 of this magazine, email [email protected] or call (412) 487-3207 for more information.

ISFANews

Learning the hole coring technique

Performing a bowl cutout

Main Office2400 Wildwood Rd. Gibsonia, PA 15044 (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 www.isfanow.org

Executive Director Keith Haight(412) [email protected]

Communications Director Kevin ColeMagazine/Website Publisher & Editor (815) [email protected]

Account Representative Paul Wisnefski(262) [email protected]

Administrative Assistant & Registrar Paula Goncz(412) [email protected]

ISFA ContactsISFA Board of DirectorsDave PaxtonPresident Paxton Countertops and Showers PO Box 174 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 (517) 719-0146 [email protected] LangenderferImmediate Past President The Countertop Shop 10406 Geiser Rd. Holland, OH 43528 (419) 868-9101 [email protected] www.countertopshop.netMell HillVice President Oldcastle Surfaces 1400 Marietta St. Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 355-3108 [email protected] www.oldcastlesurfaces.comAdam AlbeeSecretary Lincoln Laminating 5010 Rentworth Dr. Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 434-6009 [email protected] www.lincolnlaminating.com

Erica HusseyTreasurer JCW Countertops 3 Aberjona Dr. Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 935-1907 [email protected] www.jcwcountertops.comMike WoodsDirector Creative Countertop Solutions 919 4th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37210 (615) 915-0718 [email protected] www.creativecountersolutions.com Kate DillenburgDirector Bisley Fabrication 700 Industrial St. Gresham, WI 54128 (715) 787-4410 [email protected] www.bisfab.com

Ryan MillerDirector VT Stone Surfaces 1000 Industrial Park Holstein, IA 51025 (712) 368-4381, ext. 236 [email protected] www.vtstonesurfaces.comJohn HansenAssociate Member Representative Kohler 3721 Armstrong Dr., Ste. 2B Bloomington, IL 61704 (920) 207-7701 [email protected] www.kohler.comJeff SmithAssociate Member Representative Gemstone 435 Harrison St. Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 294-8899 [email protected] www.gemstoness.com


Training Information:For the New Jersey classes, a room block as been arranged at the Holiday Inn Express, 303 Union Avenue, Haskell, NJ 07420, (973) 839-4405. The daily rate is $91 +tax and includes breakfast. You need to state that you are a guest of Alpha Tools to receive the discounted rate. The best airport to use is Newark (EWR). We will provide class materials and lunch for the class days; you are responsible for any other travel costs.

For the Las Vegas classes, please call Paula at the ISFA headquarters for detailed hotel information (412) 487-3207. We will provide class materials and lunch for the class days; you are responsible for any other travel costs.

Total Fabrication Training (Quartz/Stone)2015 Class Reservation FormMain: (412) 487-2107 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.isfanow.org • 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044

Course InformationTotal Fabrication Training combines basic hands-on fabrication training with advanced concepts, such as templating, seaming, cutouts, bowl mounting processes, finishing, installation and repair techniques. The three-day course is the most comprehensive training program available for the quartz and stone industry and is endorsed by leading manufacturers of quartz and stone products. Fill our the information below to reserve your spot and attend this industry-wide-accepted training program.

Personal InformationName: ______________________________________________________________ Title: __________________________________________________________________

Company: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Full Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________ Fax: _______________________________________ Email: _______________________________________________

Total Fabrication Training DatesPlease select the training class you will be attending:

q January 26-28, 2015 (Las Vegas)

q April 8-10, 2015 (New Jersey)

q July 27-29, 2015 (New Jersey)

q October 5-7, 2015 (Las Vegas)

Method of Payment:

q Check (include copy with form)

q American Express

q Visa

q MasterCard

q Discover

Card number: ______________________________________________________

Expiration: ______________________________CVC Code: ________________

Name on card: _____________________________________________________

Billing address: _____________________________________________________

All Students Attending:

Full Name: _______________________________________________________

Full Name: _______________________________________________________

Full Name: _______________________________________________________

Full Name: _______________________________________________________

Pricing:

Member pricing: . . . . . . . . . . . $1,295 x ____ students = $ _______________

Nonmember pricing: . . . . . . . . $1,695 x ____ students = $ _______________

Observer pricing:. . . . . . . . . . . $650 x ____ students = $ _______________

q If you are not a member, check this box to sign up for membership today! For the same price as a nonmember seat to this class, you also get a full year’s worth of membership and can save on additional attendees!

Fabricator DirectoryCompanies in blue are Certified ProfessionalsALABAMASurface One 2421 Hwy. 11Pelham, AL 35124205-621-1125www.surface1.com

ALASKAAlaskan Counter Fitters607 Old Steese Hwy. Ste. BPMB 354 Fairbanks, AK 99701907-455-0247

Bicknell Inc.PO Box 33517Juneau, AK 99801907-789-5727www.bicknellinc.com

Cook Inlet Housing Authority 3510 Spenard Rd. Anchorage, AK 99503907-793-3047www.cookinlethousing.org

G2 ConstructionPO Box 10690Fairbanks, AK 99710907-458-1087www.g2const.com

Mountain Tops LTD 6605 Arctic Spur Rd. Anchorage, AK 99518907-272-8107www.mountaintops.net

North Coast Countertops7720 Hacienda Dr.Anchorage, AK 99507907-727-6419

Panco Inc. PO Box 210 Talkeetna, AK 99676907-733-6600

ARIZONAKitchen Bath & Beyond Specializing In Solid Surface 1440 CoronaFort Mojave, AZ 86426928-788-1000

CALIFORNIA AZ Countertops Inc.1560 Harris Ct.1445 S. Hudson Ave.Ontario, CA 91761909-983-5386www.azcountertopsinc.com

Block Tops Inc.1560 Harris Ct.Anaheim, CA 92806714-978-5080www.blocktops.com

Design Fabrication Inc.100 Bosstick Blvd.San Marco, CA 92069760-727-1800www.designfabrication.com

Duracite2100 Huntington Dr. Fairfield, CA 94533707-402-1600www.duracite.com

Finishing Touch Millwork1280 Activity Dr. Ste. DVista, CA 92081858-382-9143www.ftmillwork.com

Fischer Tile & Marble1800 23rd St.Sacramento, CA 95816916-452-1426www.fischertile.com

Humboldt Countertops70 W. 4th St.Eureka CA 95501707-442-5918www.humtop.com

Integra Cabinets & Millwork249 W. Baywood #BOrange, CA 92865714-283-2890www.integracmw.com

Marble Expressions1573 Seminole St.San Marcos, CA 92708760-471-8737www.marbleexpressions.com

Mio Metals400 Western Ave.Petaluma, CA 94952888-530-7630www.miometals.com

Southwest Carpenters Training Fund533 S. Fremont Ave. #401Los Angeles, CA 90071213-739-9343

The Countertop Factory12349 Telegraph Rd.Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670562-944-2450 www.thecountertopfactory.net

Visalia Ceramic Tile917 N. American St.Visalia, CA 93291 559-651-2925

COLORADOAAFES Ft. Carson FMO1510 Chiles Ave.Ft. Carson, CO 80913719-291-9206

Arlun Inc.6250 Corporate Dr.Colorado Springs, CO 80919719-599-4175

DMS1620 Paonia St.Colorado Springs, CO 80915719-574-1250 www.dmscustom.com

CONNECTICUTPorta Door Co. Inc.65 Cogwheel Ln.Seymour, CT 06401203-888-6191www.portadoor.com

DELAWAREKeith HaightWilmington, DE 19803484-354-5909

Troy Granite Inc.711 Interchange Blvd.Newark, DE 19711302-292-1750www.troygranite.com

FLORIDABeverin Solid Surface1108 Palmetto Ave.Lehigh Acres, FL 33972239-368-9444www.beverin.com

Natural Stone Motif Inc.870 Sunshine Ln.Altamonte Springs, FL 32714407-774-0676www.naturalstonemotif.com

Refresh Interiors Design4641 Lown St.St. Petersburg, FL 33714727-527-0206www.refreshinteriorsdesign.com

Surface Crafters 711 Commercial Dr.Holly Hill, FL 32117386-253-0826www.surface-crafters.com

Sterling Mfg. 8293 Consumer CircleSarasota, FL 34240941-955-8787www.sterlingmfg.com

GEORGIA Atlanta Kitchen Inc.196 Rio CircleDecatur, GA 30030404-378-3220www.atlanta-kitchen.com

Counter Fitters LLC1026 Lynes Ave.Savannah, GA 31415912-231-0103www.counterfitterssav.com

Countersync 2014 Westside Ct.Augusta, GA 30907706-828-7544www.countersync.net

Craftmark Solid Surfaces Inc. 2772 Simpson CircleNorcross, GA 30071770-242-8469craftmarkcountertops.com

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

Oldcastle Surfaces Inc.1400 W. Marietta St.Atlanta, GA 30318404-355-3108www.oldcastlesurfaces.com

Top South830 Pickens Industrial Dr.Marietta, GA 30062770-422-4009www.topsouth.com

HAWAII Honolulu Tile & Marble Inc.1602-B Auiki St.Honolulu, HI 96819808-845-3775

Solid Surface Technologies360 Mokauea St.Honolulu, HI 96819808-845-8677www.ssthawaii.com

IDAHOKetchum Kustom Woodworks114 Lewis St. #3 & #4Ketchum, ID 83340208-726-1905www.ketchumkustom woodworks.com

ILLINOIS Custom Marble Inc.PO Box 306Millstadt, IL 62260618-476-1345www.custommarble.net

Dirk Foster802 S. 26th St.Mt. Vernon, IL 62864206-898-8163

F-W-S Solid Surface Specialist Inc.610 N. Illinois Ave.Carbondale, IL 62901618-457-2326www.f-w-s.net

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

New Age Surfaces1237 Naperville Dr.Romeoville, IL 60446630-226-0011


Pierce Laminated Products Inc.2430 N. Court St.Rockford, IL 61103815-968-9651www.piercelaminated.com

Solid Surface Creations Inc.403 S. SycamoreVilla Grove, IL 61956217-832-8207www.ssctops.com

Sprovieri’s Custom Cabinets55 Laura Dr.Addison, IL 60101630-917-4690www.sprovieris.com

Stalwart Systems7797 N. Caldwell Ave.Niles, IL 60714847-972-1193www.stalwartsystemsusa.com

Stevens Industries Inc.704 W. Main St.Teutopolis, IL 62427217-540-3100www.stevensinc.com

Ultimate Stone Inc.1445 Tonne Rd.Elk Grove Village, IL 60007847-437-8662www.ultimatestone.net

INDIANAA. I. A. Countertops LLC 501 W. Railroad Ave.Syracuse, IN 46567574-457-2018www.aiacountertops.com

Bollock Industries Inc.900 Farabee Ct.Lafayette, IN 47905765-448-6000www.bollockstoptops.com

Countertop Pros5901 S. Range Rd.North Judson, IN 46366574-896-6013

Hard Surface Fabrications, Inc./Kormax810 S. Beiger St.Mishawaka, IN 46544574-259-4843

Laminated Tops of Central Indiana Inc.711 E. Dillman Rd. Bloomington, IN 47401812-824-6299www.rakesolutions.com

M & W Countertops Inc.11934 Witmer Rd.Grabill, IN 46741260-627-3636www.mwcountertops.com

Michiana Laminated Products Inc. 7130 N. 050 E.Howe, IN 46746260-562-2871www.michianalaminated.com

IOWACustom Countertops & More1801 E. Oak St.Algona, IA 50511515-295-4835

Granite Custom Design2369 Heinz Rd. Unit #JIowa City, IA 52240888-452-0714 www.granitecustomdesign.com

Solid Fabrications Inc. 2515 Murray St.Sioux City, IA 51111712-255-5319www.solidfab.com

Surface Solutions Inc.323 La Porte Rd.Waterloo, IA 50702319-287-5056www.surfacesolutionsia.com

VT Industries1000 Industrial ParkHolstein, IA 51025712-368-4381www.vtindustries.com

KANSASCountertop Shoppe5855 S.W. 21st St.Topeka, KS 66604785-271-8675www.mycountertopshoppe.com

Fisher Lumber Co., Inc.PO Box 355Garden Plain, KS 67050316-531-2295

Mid-America Kitchens & Baths1105 N. IndustrialMarion, KS 66861620-382-3390 www.midamericamarble products.com

Parman Brothers LTD PO Box 7Johnson, KS 67855620-492-6882 www.parmanbrothersltd.com

Top Master Inc.2844 Roe Ln.Kansas City, KS 66103913-492-3030www.top-master.com

KENTUCKY Surfaces Unlimited Inc.1272 Hwy. 490East Bernstadt, KY 40729606-843-6891www.surfaces-unlimited.com

LOUISIANA Dan Solid Surfaces2020 Dallas Dr.Baton Rouge, LA 70806225-216-3900www.dansolidsurface.com

Top Distributors LLC412 Post Oak Rd. Sulphur, LA 70663 337-625-5751

MAINE Shad’s Custom Countertops Inc.11 Collins Pond Rd.Windham, ME 04062207-893-3445www.getshad.com

MARYLANDCarefree Kitchens Inc.2910 Strickland St.Baltimore, MD 21223410-233-4900www.carefreeindustries.com

SolidTops LLC505 South St.Easton, MD 21601410-819-0770www.solidtops.com

MASSACHUSETTS Jack’s Custom Woodworking/ JCW Countertop 3 Aberjona Dr.Woburn, MA 01801781-935-1907www.jcwcountertops.com

PADCOCountertop Co.5 Springdale Ave.Canton, MA 02021781-828-1177www.padcocountertop.com

Sterling Surfaces76 Leominster Rd.Sterling, MA 01564978-422-3321www.sterlingsurfaces.com

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc.1079 N. Montello St.Brockton, MA 02301508-894-6999www.sterlingmillerdesigns.com

TWD Surfaces75 Hale St.Bridgewater, MA 02324508-279-2650www.twdsurfaces.com

MICHIGANBlasius Inc.7343 Buell Rd. Vassar, MI 48768989-871-5000www.blasiusinc.com

Innovative Surface Works12855 Fairlane St.Livonia, MI 48150734-261-3010www.innovativesurfaceworks.com

Marbelite Corp.22500 Heslip Dr.Novi, MI 48375248-348-1900www.marbelitecorp.com

Paxton CountertopsPO Box 174Grand Ledge, MI 48837517-719-0146

Solid Surfaces Unlimited Inc.6689 Sterling Dr. S.Sterling Heights, MI 48312586-274-9668 www.ssunlimited.net

MINNESOTA Innovative Surfaces Inc.515 Spiral Blvd.Hastings, MN 55033651-437-1004

The Pinske Edge119 Main St.Plato, MN 55370320-238-2196www.pinske-edge.com

MISSISSIPPI Alexander Counterwrights903 Ingalls Ave.Pascagoula, MS 39567228-938-6484www.alexandercounterwrights.com

MISSOURI Surface Menders32 Clipper Ln.Kimberling City, MO 65686417-598-2390 www.surfacemend.com

MONTANA BMC3200 Hwy. 12 E.PO Box 5780Helena, MT 59404www.buildwithbmc.com

Jim ShrevePO Box 721 Florence, MT 59833 406-880-3566

Pyramid Cabinet Shop1201 Fourth Ave. N.Billings, MT 59101406-671-8329www.pyramid-cabinet.com


Fabricator DirectoryCompanies in blue are Certified Professionals

VanSetten Walker Construction Co. 821 1st Ave. N.W.Great Falls, MT 59404406-570-5283

WoodCo LLC PO Box 30254Billings, MT 59107406-259-5177 www.woodcollc.com

NEBRASKA Best Quality Countertops4340 S. 90th St.Omaha, NE 68127 402-670-6338

Builders Warehouse4600 N. Second Ave.Kearney, NE 68845308-627-6702

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

NEVADAB & C Cabinets & Millwork Inc.5241 Metric WayCarson City, NV 89706775-322-6000

Carpenters Int’l. Training Fund 6801 Placid St.Las Vegas, NV 89119702-938-1111

The Countertop Shop, LLC301B Sunpac Ct.Henderson, NV 89011702-839-2224www.thecountertopshopllc.biz

NEW JERSEY J. Dougherty & Son/ JDS Supply 337 N. Main St.Glassboro, NJ 08028856-881-5444www.JDSsupply.com

Marvic Corp.2450 Lorio St.Union, NJ 07083908-686-4340www.countertopsofnj.com

Solid Surface Designs Inc.1651 Sherman Ave.Pennsauken, NJ 08110856-910-7720www.ssdtops.com

Spaulding Fabricators Inc.1136 Industrial Pkwy.Brick, NJ 08724732-840-4433www.spauldingfabricators.com

NEW MEXICOAmerican Countertops8013 Edith N.E.Albuquerque, NM 87113505-897-3141

Jaynes Structures2906 Broadway N.E.Albuquerque, NM 87107505-344-8589www.jaynescorp.com

OGB Architectural Millwork3711 Paseo del NorteAlbuquerque, NM 87113505-998-0000www.ogb-am.com

Pieper Construction2420 N. White Sands Blvd.Alamogordo, NM 88310575-437-2262www.pieperconstruction.com

Rojo Enterprises LLCPO Box 429Roswell, NM 88202505-626-3553

NEW YORKBusch Products Inc.110 Baker St.Syracuse, NY 13206315-474-8422www.buschproducts.comDimensional Stone and Tile Designs146 E. 3rd St. Mt. Vernon, NY 10550 914-664-1200

Evans & Paul LLC140 DuPont St.Plainview, NY 11803516-576-0800www.evansandpaul.com

Marker Systems Inc.940 River Rd.North Tonawanda, NY 14120716-695-1102

Modern Home DistributingPO Box 395Nunda, NY 14517585-468-2523

Penn Fabricators Inc.100 Bellport Ave.Yaphank, NY 11980631-205-0282www.penn4corian.com

Unico Special Products Inc.25 Renwick St.Newburgh, NY 12550845-562-9255www.unicospecialproducts.com

Wilbedone Inc.1133 NYS Rte. 222Cortland, NY 13045800-734-8813www.wilbedone.com

NORTH CAROLINA Carolina Counters13570 Broadway Ave.Midland, NC 28107704-888-4010www.carolinacounters.com

Johnson Granite Inc.PO Box 511589 Hiatt Rd.Mount Airy, NC 27030336-719-2729

Merge Design Co.3001-103 Spring Forest Rd.Raleigh, NC 27616919-790-1749www.mergedesignco.com

Premier Plus Inc.165 Wildwood Ave.Hamlet, NC 28345910-995-5615www.premierplusinc.net

OHIOBertke Countertops9355 Amsterdam Rd.Anna, OH 45302937-538-7024

Cabinets 2 Countertops7142 Frank Ave. N.W.N. Canton, OH 44720330-244-0221www.cabinets2countertops.com

Cutting Edge Countertops Inc.1300 Flagship Dr.Perrysburg, OH 43551419-873-9500www.cectops.com

Earth Anatomy Fabrication4092 Greenwich Rd.Norton, OH 44203740-244-5316www.earthanatomy.com

Granex Industries32400 Aurora Rd.Salon, OH 44139440-248-4915www.granexindustries.com

Heritage Marble Inc.7086 Huntley Rd.Columbus, OH 43229614-436-7465

Kitchens by Rutenschroer950 Laidlaw Ave.Cincinnati, OH 45237513-251-8333www.kbrmfg.com

Korkan Granite4561 Crystal Pkwy.Kent, OH 44240330-677-1883www.korkangranite.comL. E. Smith Co.1030 E. Wilson St.Bryan, OH 43506888-537-6484www.lesmith.comLaminate Shop, Inc.PO Box 1218Marietta, OH 45750740-749-3536

Solid Surfaces Plus4640 Manufacturing Rd.Cleveland, OH 44135216-267-7040www.solidsurfacesplus.com

The Countertop Shop LTD10406 Geiser Rd.Holland, OH 43528419-868-9101www.countertopshop.netTop Shelf Laminated Products400 Dietz Rd.Warren, OH 44483330-393-1289 Tower IndustriesPO Box 647Massillon, OH 44648330-837-2216www.towersurfaces.com

OKLAHOMA Hoffman Fixtures Co.6031 S. 129th St. Ste. BTulsa, OK 74134918-252-0451www.hfccountertops.com

OREGON Grifform Innovations Inc.PO Box 258Glide, OR 97443541-496-0313www.grifform.com

Precision Countertops Inc.PO Box 387Wilsonville, OR 97070503-692-6660www.precisioncountertops.com

PENNSYLVANIA A.S.S.T.805 W. Elm Ave.Hanover, PA 17331717-630-1251www.asst.com

Advanced Surfaces Inc.130 Plastics Rd.Corry, PA 16407814-663-0369

Blume’s Solid Surface Products904 Freeport Rd.Freeport, PA 16229724-294-3190www.blumes.net

Capital City Counters Inc.760 N. Front St.P.O. Box 7616Steelton, PA 17113717-939-2878www.capitalcitycounters.com

Chuck Sawyer4802 Au Sable Dr.Gibsonia, PA 15044412-213-0370


John Kramer’s Fabrications Inc.PO Box 41Bernville, PA 19506610-488-6213www.kramershowerbases.com

McGrory Inc.576 Rosedale Rd.Kennett Square, PA 19349610-444-1512www.mcgroryinc.com

Pence Countertops Inc.124 Ellis Woods Rd.Pottstown, PA 19465610-326-6609www.pencecountertops.com

RHODE ISLAND New England Counter TopPO Box FPawtucket, RI 02861508-761-7588

SOUTH CAROLINASolid Products109 Lazenby Dr.Ft. Mill, SC 29715704-236-9796www.solidproducts.biz

SOUTH DAKOTA Dakotaland Woodwork & Cabinets LLC 41181 179th St.Raymond, SD 57258605-532-4150

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co.45753 237th St.Madison, SD 57042605-256-3707www.soliddfc.comFormatop Co.101 S. FranklinSioux Falls, SD 57103605-332-3151www.formatopcompany.comTENNESSEE Alexander Brothers Tile & Marble Inc.1446 S. Cooper St. Ste. 101Memphis, TN 38114901-278-9626www.alexandermarbleandgranite.comCreative Countertop Solutions Inc.300 Peabody St.Nashville, TN 37210615-915-0718www.creativecountersolutions.comTEXASClassic Counter Tops2325 Executive Dr.Garland, TX 75041972-840-1234www.classiccountertopsinc.com

Counterscapes, Inc.2228 Deerbrook Dr. Tyler, TX 75703 903-581-5676Countertop Solutions LLC11915 Drexel Hill Dr.Houston, TX 77077713-204-0080Gecko Solid Surface Solutions4630 Sinclair Rd.San Antonio, TX 78222210-227-3100www.geckosss.comSouthwestern Counter Tops & Millwork4100 Frankfort Ave.El Paso, TX 79903915-562-1116 [email protected]. Watson Inc.12902 Mula Ln.Stafford, TX 77477281-495-3664www.wrwatson.com

UTAHAlternative Surface250 E. 400 S.Vernal, UT 84078801-414-3512Quality Craft Wood WorksHC 60 Box 703Rocky Ridge, UT 84645435-623-1707Utah Kitchen and Bath2098 E. 2250 N.Layton, UT 84040801-814-8847www.utahkitchenandbath.comVIRGINIA Metro Stone Works LLC9115 Digital Dr. Unit 12Manassas Park, VA 20111703-396-866www.metrostoneworks.comSurface Link Corp.4200 Lafayette Center Dr. Ste. AChantilly, VA 20151301-482-1717 www.surfacelinkcorp.comTRINDCO1004 Obici Industrial Blvd.Suffolk, VA 23434757-539-0262www.trindco.comWASHINGTONFloForm Countertops22445 76th Ave. S.Kent, WA 98032253-639-4567www.floform.comMt. Rainer Marble LLC2606 Jackson Hwy.Chehalisi, WA 98523360-520-1844www.mtrainiermarble.com

RD Wing11809 N.E. 116th St.Kirkland, WA 98034425-821-7222www.blimages.comSheridan Woodworking LLC2175 Frog Hollow Rd.Walla Walla, WA 99362509-540-7799Synsor Corp.1920 Merrill Creek Pkwy. Everett, WA 98203 425-322-9604WISCONSIN Bisley Fabrication Inc.700 Industrial St.Gresham, WI 54128715-787-4410www.bisfab.com

McDermott Top Shop LLC200 A Main St.Sullivan, WI 53178262-593-2456

Spectrum Surfaces Inc.812 Marquis WayGreen Bay, WI 54304920-337-6575

WYOMING Wyoming Building Supply Inc.2104 Fairgrounds Rd.Casper, WY 82604307-265-7935www.wyomingbuildingsupply.com

CANADAColonial Countertops Ltd.609 Alpha St.Victoria, BC V8Z 1B2Canada250-383-1926http://colonialcountertops.comConi-Marble Mfg. Inc. PO Box 40 99 Harrison St. Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0Canada519-461-0100

FloForm Countertops125 Hamelin St.Winnipeg, MB R3T 3Z1 Canada204-474-2334www.floform.comFloForm Countertops10-710 Cynthia St.Saskatoon, SK S7l 6A2Canada306-665-7733www.floform.com

FloForm Countertops7630 Yellowhead TrailEdmonton, AB T5B 1G3Canada780-474-7999www.floform.com

Granit Design77 IndustrielleStanstead, QC J0B 3E0Canada819-564-7111www.granitdesign.comCHINAZhongdi Architecture & Art Solutions Co. Ltd.7 Qutangxia Road, Shinan DistrictQingdao, Shandong 266002China865-328-267-3659FRANCECREA DiffusionZA Le Cheval BlancSolgne F-57420France38-764-6923www.crea-diffusion.comLEBANONRespond S.A.L.1st Floor Missirian Bldg. Beirut, Lebanon 90076 961-150-1414MEXICOVictor Coronado ServicesBoulevard Hacienda Galindo 116Villas del meson Juriquilla, 76230Mexico 52-4422342743RUSSIAAKRILIKA HOLDINGSvobody St., 29MoscowRussia125362http://akrilika.com/enARTCOR60th km. Ring Road Ste. 4AMoscowRussia+7-485-657-8578www.artcor.ruSINGAPOREDECORA PROLunacharskogo Pr., 25St. Petersburg, Russia911-922-5070www.decora.proHarvest Building Products PTE LTD148 Tagore Ln.Singapore656-362-2608www.hbp.com.sgUNITED KIINGDOMInterfab LTDUnit 9 Willersey Business ParkWillersey, Nr. Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7RRUnited Kingdom441-386-858100www.interfab.co.uk

Companies in blue are Certified Professionals



Product News

Eurosoft Inc. Offers COBUS ConCept CAD/CAM Software Eurosoft Inc. has teamed up with COBUS ConCept to offer its NCAD CAD/CAM software. The NCAD software suite offers a variety of tools and modules that can significantly aid in improving the efficiency and automation of a manufacturing center. With NCAD implemented, one system controls every CNC machine, and all of the necessary data is sent directly to production so there is no need to spend additional time learning to use a variety of other software programs. NCAD also has powerful parametric programming tools that allow users to assign variables to just about any design element in NCAD, tie it all together with the desired conditions, and from there quickly create new models and catalogs without having to redesign every element piece by piece. Other key features include: intelligent nesting module; post processors for all brands of CNC machines; built-in macros and custom macro builder; integration with ERP; importation of existing design files (.DXF, .DWG, etc.); and 3-D test simulations for design testing.Circle RS#28 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Caesarstone Launches Two Quartz Colors

Caesarstone launched two new colors of quartz surfacing: Sleek Concrete and Calacatta Nuvo.

Sleek Concrete has an industrial look with a gray, matte appearance that resembles concrete.

Calcatta Nuvo was inspired by natural Calacatta marble and has wide, cascading gray veins on a white opaque base.Circle RS#29 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Karran Carries Overflows for Edge Vanity BowlsDue to customer demand, Karran is now offering overflows for its E-505, E-305 and E-303 Edge Series vanity bowls. The company has sourced a drain system that has an integrated overflow that is available with a pop-up drain style and a grid style.Circle RS#30 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

ETemplate ELaser Now Links with CabinetVision SoftwareETemplate Systems’ ELaser 3-D measuring system now links to CabinetVision™ software for cabinet design and layout. This new module to the ELaser Pro system enables users to quickly and accurately capture wall profiles, level and plumb information, locations of doors, windows, outlets, switches and plumbing. The ELaser Measure Manager™ software draws the 3-D room model as points are collected by the laser. Once the room is measured, the software then exports an ORD file that can be directly opened by CabinetVision. Circle RS#31 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Four New Colors of KRION Solid Surface AvailableSystempool’s KRION Solid Surface now comes in the new Luxury color

series inspired by nature’s beauty. The series offers four colors that have a stone-like appearance, but with the properties of solid surface. This new series features a carefully conceived random veined pattern. The new colors are Siracusa, which has a pale brown background with dark brown

and off-white textures and clear, black and brown chips of different sizes; Segesta,

which has a pale gray background with white and gray veins of differing shades and features black, brown and clear chips of different sizes; Erice, which has a hazelnut-colored background with ochre sparkles and brown gray and white veins in addition to black, brown and glass chips of different sizes; and Pompei, which has a translucent cream background with clear chips and also features brown and white veins that fade away gradually on the surface.Circle RS#32 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Kohler Stainless Steel Undertone Preserve Sinks Provide Scratch Resistance Kohler introduced Undertone Preserve, a series of kitchen sinks engineered to create a scratch-resistant barrier, protecting the stainless steel and maintaining its pristine look. Preserve is a factory-applied surface treatment that has the added benefit of scratch resistance while still wiping clean as easily as any stainless steel sink. It keeps Kohler stainless steel sinks looking newer longer. All Undertone Preserve sinks include a bottom basin rack and are currently available on four sink configurations: 3356-HCF-NA – XL Offset (pictured here); 3171-HCF-NA – Double Equal; 5290-HCF-NA – Large Single Bowl; and 3325-HCF-NA – Medium Single Bowl.



Circle RS#19 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.Circle RS#18 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

BLANCO Presents Sonoma Pull-down Faucet BLANCO now offers the Sonoma pull-down faucet. Designed with convenient features such as an ergonomic pull-down with dual spray functionality, the faucet has classic modern lines and comes in two finishes: Polished Chrome and Stainless Steel. It has an 8 ½-in. reach, a spout height of 7 ⅞ in. and a faucet height of 15 ½ in. Reversible mounting hardware adapts to thick or thin mounting surfaces. It also features a solid brass body, ceramic disk cartridge and a 2.2-gpm flow rate (also available in 20 percent water saving CAL Green model).Circle RS#34 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

GranQuartz Offers MB20 Polish PowderGranQuartz is now offering MB20 Polish Powder, an exclusive proprietary blend of abrasives and polishing agents that polish granite and most other stone. The polish is for use with a variable-speed right angle grinder with a 5- or 7-in. pad driver and a natural fiber pad. Only a small amount of the polish is required, and areas being polished should be masked off and free of any coatings, waxes, sealers, grease or soil.


Formica Launches New Laminate Patterns Formica Corporation launched seven new Formica laminate patterns with Premiumfx™ finishes that address three major trends in the residential market ― Soft Stones, White Stones and Non-Traditional Materials. In the Soft Stones category two new patterns are available: Sand Flow and Lava Flow, both of which feature a fine granular sandstone design. In the White Stones category, there are two new colors: Carrara Bianco (pictured here), a white marble influenced by the popular 180fx® pattern Calacatta Marble, and Argento Romano, a gray-based neutral with taupe and beige accents. In the Non-Traditional Materials category, three new patterns have been developed: Paloma Dark Gray, Paloma



Product News


Circle RS#20 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. Circle RS#21 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


Bisque and Paloma Polar, all of which are inspired by the look of quartz. The seven new laminates feature the softly polished Etchings™ Premiumfx™ finish, which is etched and dappled with highlights from tiny fissures reminiscent of those found in real granite and stone. Circle RS#35 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Domain Industries Carries New of

Santa Fe Stone Sink ModelsDomain Industries has five new models in its Santa Fe collection

of handcrafted stone sinks. These models are

designed to combine modern aesthetics with functionality and

offer several new stone types, including Blue Stone limestone, Galaga Beige marble and

Guangxi White marble. The stone options give the sinks unique design characteristics while showcasing a handcrafted look and feel. They include Revolution (pictured here), Lareve, Tureen, Charleston and Edges. The vessel-mount style sinks are constructed with generous bowl depths and sizes that create a dramatic feel while accommodating various water flow requirements. Circle RS#36 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.

Cambria Introduces Six New Quartz DesignsCambria released six new designs in its Marble, Desert and Waterstone collections of quartz surfacing, bringing its total palette to 109 designs. From the Marble Collection, Fairbourne and Ramsey are inspired by the classic look of marble. In the Desert Collection are the additions of Manchester, Dunmore and Kirkstead, which provide monochrome foundations that portray

subtle sophistication and adaptability. Nevern is the new color in the Waterstone Collection modeled after the relationship between sand and rocky shores.Circle RS#37 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.


Get Your Free Product Information Today: For more facts on products and services, please fill out all the information below and circle the product referral numbers that are found in the magazine. Product referral numbers can be found below each advertisement. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer. You can submit this form via mail, fax, email ([email protected]) or visit us online at www.ISFAnow.org/info.

Free Product Information FormOr visit www.ISFANow.org/info to fill out our online form Main: (412) 487-3207 • Fax: (412) 487-3269 • www.ISFANow.org • 2400 Wildwood Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044

Volume 7 / Issue 4

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



What category best describes your business classification?q Fabricator q Manufacturer q Raw Materials Supplier q Woodworker/Cabinetmakerq Builder/Remodeler q Architect q Distributor/Manufacturer of Sheet Goods q Other (please specify) _______________________

Whichonecategorybestdescribesyourjobtitle/function?q Owner/Partner/Corporate Management and Related Personnel q Production/Plant Management and Related Personnel q Design (includes staff designer/architect and related personnel) q Purchasing/Specifier and Related Personnelq Marketing & Sales Management and Related Personnel q Other (please specify)

Information By Category If you want more information from several advertisers in a category, circle the category number that matches up with the category below.

About Your Business

C01 AbrasivesC02 Adhesives C03 Air Quality Equipment C04 CNC MachineryC05 Concrete Materials & Supplies C06 Hand/Power ToolsC07 LaminateC08 Material Handling EquipmentC09 Prefabricated Accessories C10 Quartz Surfacing C11 Saws

C12 Sealers/PolishesC13 Seaming EquipmentC14 Sinks C15 Software C16 Solid SurfaceC17 StoneC18 Templating EquipmentC19 Tooling C20 TrainingC21 Waterjet EquipmentC22 Other Materials

What surfacing materials do you work with?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Free Product Information Please circle below all of the referral numbers found in the magazine, or the category numbers found on this page that you would like more information on. Your request will be immediately forwarded to the proper manufacturer.

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33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

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Ad Index Referral # Page # 04 BACA Systems 9 19 Beckart Environmental, Inc. 47 16 Betterly Industries, Inc. 35 13 Chemcore Industries 31 08 Clearstone Coating Inc. 18 03 Cosentino 7 14 Counter Balance 32 21 CountertopResource.com 48 15 ETemplate Systems 33 23 Integra Adhesives 52 05 ISFA Membership 10 01 ITW Polymers Sealants North America 2 11 Karran USA 25 10 KRION 24 12 Laser Products 28 02 Park Industries 5 20 Performance Abrasives 48 17 QuartzSource 36 22 Regent Stone Products 51 07 Total Fabrication Training 13 18 Vicostone 47 09 Water Treatment Solutions 19

Classifieds Fabricators!ISFA Fabricators, do you have used equipment taking up space in your shop that you would like to sell? Are you looking to fill a key position in your operations? Our readers might be interested. Why not submit a FREE classified ad?

That’s right, relevant classifieds in this publication are free to ISFA fabricator members! Just send us the text you’d like to run and we’ll do the rest.

Email us today at [email protected].

To place a paid classified ad, for those of you who are not fabricator members, email [email protected] or call (815) 721-1507.

Pass it along!Share this copy with a colleague or friend.

Better yet, have them subscribe at isfanow.org/magazine.

YOUR AD [could be here]

Crystallyne’s Quickquote Software Makes

Countertop Quoting and Drawing Faster

and Easier It features an intuitive interface that generates a fully labeled scale drawing with every quote.

Its flexible pricing system allows you to work with any countertop material, and backsplashes, edging and other services are automatically tabulated.

It also allows exports of drawings, inventory tracking and scheduling, as well as much, much more.

Visit www.crystallyneonline.com for free trial or call (508) 553-9600 for

more information

Circle RS#23 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info.ISFA Member since 2003

ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 7, Issue 4 - Q4 2014

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Transcript of ISFA's Countertops & Architectural Surfaces Vol. 7, Issue 4 - Q4 2014