National Tile Contractors Association October 2019
www.tileletter.com ON THE COVER: LATICRETE International, Inc.
Beautifying New York City one mosaic panel at a time
2019 Women in Tile issue INFO SPECS File Name: 19-2319 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_ANSI A118.15 Page Size: 11.25" x 8.75" PR#: XXXX Job#: 19-2312 Number of Pages: 1
1144 E. Newport Center Dr. Artist: Georgina Morra Email: [email protected] Bleed: Yes Amount: .125" Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 Date: August 20, 2019 4:26 PM Colors: CMYK Process, 4/0
NOTE: COLORS VIEWED ON-SCREEN ARE INTENDED FOR VISUAL REFERENCE ONLY AND MAY NOT MATCH THE FINAL PRINTED PRODUCT.
MAPEI’s high-performance A118.15 tile mortars
MAPEI’s expanded offering of ANSI A118.15 mortars The ANSI A118.15 standard details the requirements for high-performance mortars that can be used in freeze/thaw environments, submerged applications, areas with expansion and deflection, hot environments, etc. Additionally, the standard allows mortars to be categorized with the characteristics of extended working time (E), slip-resistant (T) and fast-setting (F).
MAPEI’s line of high-performance A118.5 tile mortars provides peace of mind for specifiers and contractors. To see the full brochure, visit www.mapei.com. For more information, call 1-800-992-6273.
MAPEI USA
19-2319 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_ANSI A118.15.indd 1 8/20/19 4:37 PM INFO SPECS File Name: 19-2319 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_ANSI A118.15 Page Size: 11.25" x 8.75" PR#: XXXX Job#: 19-2312 Number of Pages: 1
1144 E. Newport Center Dr. Artist: Georgina Morra Email: [email protected] Bleed: Yes Amount: .125" Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 Date: August 20, 2019 4:26 PM Colors: CMYK Process, 4/0
NOTE: COLORS VIEWED ON-SCREEN ARE INTENDED FOR VISUAL REFERENCE ONLY AND MAY NOT MATCH THE FINAL PRINTED PRODUCT.
MAPEI’s high-performance A118.15 tile mortars
MAPEI’s expanded offering of ANSI A118.15 mortars The ANSI A118.15 standard details the requirements for high-performance mortars that can be used in freeze/thaw environments, submerged applications, areas with expansion and deflection, hot environments, etc. Additionally, the standard allows mortars to be categorized with the characteristics of extended working time (E), slip-resistant (T) and fast-setting (F).
MAPEI’s line of high-performance A118.5 tile mortars provides peace of mind for specifiers and contractors. To see the full brochure, visit www.mapei.com. For more information, call 1-800-992-6273.
MAPEI USA
19-2319 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_ANSI A118.15.indd 1 8/20/19 4:37 PM October 2019
Dedicated to education tileletter.com and industry service ONLINE NOW news you need to know Feature Story 32 LATICRETE International, Inc. Beautifying New York City one mosaic panel at a time
Training & Education
56 Chanel Carrizosa CTI #1380: promote qualifi ed labor fi rst By Lesley Goddin, Editor
feature story
Featured in this issue... 42 64 42 Women in Tile 2019: Humility, homework, determination, and documentation lead to success for women in the industry By Lesley Goddin, Editor
82 Hot Topics: Stunning projects by skillful female tile setters By Lesley Goddin, Editor 74 82
2 TileLetter | October 2019 CUT TIME AND WASTE OUT OF SHOWER INSTALLATIONS!
ARDEXTM S 1-K One-Component Waterproo ng and Crack Isolation Membrane • Extremely fast cure time - rst coat dries in as little as 1 hour • Reseal and go - no more wasting leftover product • Highly workable consistency; minimal drips and splatters
www.ardexamericas.com • 888-512-7339 Columns THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE 6 Welcome New Members NATIONAL TILE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION BART A. BETTIGA, publisher 10 NTCA Workshops [email protected] LESLEY A. GODDIN, editor 12 NTCA Regional Programs [email protected] MICHELLE CHAPMAN, art director 16 Editor’s letter advertising sales [email protected]
18 President’s letter MARY SHAW-OLSON, advertising sales [email protected] 22 Ask the Experts: Mailing Address: Sponsored by LATICRETE International, Inc. P.O. Box 13629 Jackson, MS 39236 U.S.A. 26 Business Tip: Shipping Address: 626 Lakeland East Drive How small is a small business? Jackson, MS 39232 The answer could cost you money Tel: 601-939-2071 By Gene Marks Fax: 601-932-6117 . Sponsored by MAPEI Corporation Website: www.tileletter.com www.tile-assn.com 64 NTCA Member Spotlight: Fischer Tile: enriching professional experience NTCA would not be possible with- out the dedicated service of our with association membership board and committee members, and Sponsored by Custom Building Products regional and state directors. Meet these dedicated volunteers by visit- ing www.tile-assn.com and clicking 74 Tech Talk: on About Us. You can also fi nd infor- How to ensure a successful self-leveling mation and a continually updated list of NTCA Five-Star Contractors at underlayment application www.tile-assn.com – click on Find a By Emily Brunner, Area Technical Specialist Tile Contractor or Consultant. H.B. Fuller Construction Products TILELETTER EDITORIAL POLICY: TileLetter is Sponsored by the offi cial publication of the National Tile TEC Specialty Products Contractors Association, Inc. (NTCA). TileLetter provides a medium for expressing views and opinions without approving, disapproving, 96 NTCA University Update: or guaranteeing the validity or accuracy of NTCA Women in Tile recruitment video any data, claim or opinion appearing under a byline, or obtained or quoted from an demonstrates that the tile trade is a acknowledged source. Statements of fact and perfect fi t for women opinion are made on the responsibility of the By Becky Serbin, authors alone, and do not imply an opinion or refl ect the offi cial position of NTCA. NTCA Education and Curriculum Director The National Tile Contractors Association, Inc. 100 NTCA Benefi ts Box: is an equal opportunity association and seeks to include qualifi ed individuals and businesses NTCA offer members health, life, dental, in all phases of its activities. The National Tile vision and more Contractors Association, Inc. does not discrimi- nate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran 102 News Briefs status, or disability. The National Tile Contractors Association, Inc. seeks opportunities to include these groups in its programs and activities. 104 Products Briefs TileLetter is a free subscription to the tile, stone and allied products industries. To subscribe, 108 Advertiser Index visit www.tileletter.com -> click on Advertisers & Subscribers -> click on Subscribe. To make address changes or unsubscribe, please send an email to: [email protected].
4 TileLetter | October 2019
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS These members recently joined NTCA! Please take the opportunity to wel- come those in your region to the NTCA family. NAC puts the proof CONTRACTOR MEMBERS ––––––––– in waterproofing Adone Tile & Bath Craig Harimon Tile Setters Joe Bonomi Craig Harimon Norfolk, MA Omaha, NE AND sound control. 617-645-1890 402-686-7419 [email protected] [email protected] A waterproofing and sound control system for bathrooms
Apex Construction Creative Tile & Marble Inc. Zach Hoggan Adam Kudlicki Wellington, CO Lafayette, CA 970-214-4369 650-387-0302 [email protected] [email protected]
Argent Concepts Garrison Tile & Renovation Daniel Alejos Brandt Garrison Indianapolis, IN Heyburn, ID 317-362-1183 801-637-5401 [email protected] [email protected]
Barbee Tile & Marble LLC Houston Tile Works Terry Barbee Lidia Barboza-Garcia Naples, FL Houston, TX 239-272-8818 281-306-1288 [email protected] [email protected]
Cart Construction LLC Innovative Flooring Design Inc. Carlos Ramirez Jeff Tomczak Des Moines, IA Orland Park, IL Features and Benefits 515-918-2023 708-302-6852 • Easy to install system provides sound control [email protected] innovativefl [email protected] and waterproofing protection Classic Flooring Concepts LLC Manasota Flooring • Systems works with any NAC sound control Gavril Hanceri Chris Quattlebaum membrane and SubSeal® Liquid waterproofing Ypsilanti, MI Sarasota, FL membrane 734-536-3443 941-355-8437 classicfl [email protected] [email protected] • Exceeds ANSI A118.10 and A118.13 for waterproof and sound control membranes Classic Tile Works, LLC Ramon’s Tile LLC • Sound control membranes also exceed ANSI Robert Angle Ramon Rodriguez A118.12 for crack isolation providing up to 3/8” Stow, OH Aurora, NE 330-807-4862 308-258-7631 crack isolation protection [email protected] [email protected] • Same day tile installation 6 TileLetter | October 2019 www.nacproducts.com • 1-800-633-4622 NAC puts the proof in waterproofing AND sound control. A waterproofing and sound control system for bathrooms
Features and Benefits • Easy to install system provides sound control and waterproofing protection • Systems works with any NAC sound control membrane and SubSeal® Liquid waterproofing membrane • Exceeds ANSI A118.10 and A118.13 for waterproof and sound control membranes • Sound control membranes also exceed ANSI A118.12 for crack isolation providing up to 3/8” crack isolation protection • Same day tile installation
www.nacproducts.com • 1-800-633-4622 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Randy’s Flooring Services Tile Tom Randy Weeks Tom Beazley Indianola, IA Charlottesville, VA 515-991-7926 [email protected] [email protected] 434-242-2967
S. Thelen Construction LLC Whistling Bee Builders Sarah Thelen Erin Epperson Omaha, NE Fort Collins, CO 402-202-1878 970-310-6720 [email protected] [email protected]
SD Tile Stone LLC Yount Tile and Stone LLC Samir Durakovic Josh Yount Des Moines, IA Greenville, MI 515-444-7749 616-835-7514 [email protected] [email protected]
Spyder Creations LLC AFFILIATE MEMBER ––––––––––––––– David Anderson Broomfield, CO Atlas Concorde USA 303-875-6867 Andrew Day [email protected] Franklin, TN 615-661-7200 Supreme Surfaces MKE [email protected] Justin Moravec Milwaukee, WI Makinex USA LLC 262-883-5882 Brandy Carmona [email protected] Torrance, CA 855-625-4639 Synergy Holdings, Inc. [email protected] T. Bradley Millner Yuma, AZ 928-217-3780 [email protected]
Tile Master and Home Repair Ismael Hernandez Spanish Fork, UT 385-200-0375 For information about join- [email protected] ing NTCA, visit our website at www.tile-assn.com, contact Jim Olson at 601-939-2071, or email him at [email protected].
8 TileLetter | October 2019 EZ CLICK The Next-Generation Screw-based Tile Leveling System
No Tools Required Instant Screw Ejection
Level and Space at the Same Time Level
Spacing
EZ WEDGE Leveling System Designed for Edges and Corners
No Tools Required Old System Around the corner
Level and Space at the Same Time
103 Bauer Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436 • 800-648-7229 • Fax: 800-286-0114 www.alpha-tools.com
Copyright © 2019 Alpha Professional Tools®. All rights reserved. NTCA Tile & Stone Workshops
NTCA Workshops
OCTOBER 1 –––––––––––––––––––– OCTOBER 10 ––––––––––––––––––– The Tile Shop Classic Floors 15142 Frederick Road 3375 Copter Road Rockville, MD Pensacola, FL 301-610-5070 407-408-8562 Christopher Delaney Steve Martinez [email protected] [email protected]
OCTOBER 8 –––––––––––––––––––– Louisville Tile Daltile 3200 E Kemper Road 101 Guthrie Way, Suite A Cincinnati, OH Peachtree, GA 513-936-8453 770-631-0218 Larry Mersch Greg Perugini [email protected] [email protected] OCTOBER 15 ––––––––––––––––––– Louisville Tile Daltile 1417 North Cullen Ave 2011 Springboro West Rd. Evansville, IN Moraine, OH 812-473-0137 937-294-0150 Kevin Weinzapel Dale Kiser [email protected] [email protected]
OCTOBER 9 –––––––––––––––––––– OCTOBER 16 ––––––––––––––––––– Daltile Louisville Tile 288 Oxmoor Ct. Ste C 2495 Palumbo Drive Birmingham, AL Lexington, KY 205-941-1233 859-268-8373 Joey Thornell Josh Giacone [email protected] [email protected]
Louisville Tile 9906 North By Northeast Blvd Fishers, IN 317-570-8453 Brian Dillard [email protected] 10 TileLetter | October 2019
Presented by Mark Heinlein, Robb Roderick, Scott Carothers, Luis Bautista and Randy Fleming
Mark Heinlein Robb Roderick Scott Carothers Luis Bautista Randy Fleming NTCA Workshops (continued) OCTOBER 17 ––––––––––––––––––– OCTOBER 24 ––––––––––––––––––– Louisville Tile Daltile 4520 Bishop Lane 2520 Bransford Ave. Louisville, KY Nashville, TN 502-452-2037 615-297-7518 Bob Novak Keegan Beckwith [email protected] [email protected]
NTCA Regional Programs Register online at www.tile-assn.com OCTOBER 9 –––––––––––––––––––– OCTOBER 10 ––––––––––––––––––– Genesee Ceramic Tile Distributors, Inc. Genesee Ceramic Tile Distributors, Inc. 4025 Broadmoor Ave S.E. 1307 N. Belsay Road Kentwood, MI 49512 Burton, MI 48509 To register for a NTCA Regional Program, visit www.tile-assn.com and click on Education & Certifi cation.
NTCA Workshops and Regional Programs are subject to change. For updates or to see an upcoming event in your area, visit the NTCA website at www.tile-assn.com. THE GO-TO GROUT FOR RELIABILITY, VERSATILITY AND PROVEN RESULTS. The ultimate performance cement grout. Uniform consistent color No efflorescence Stain resistant Lightweight for superior handling Available at The Home Depot Ideal for all grout joint sizes up to 1/2" and tile distributors nationwide.
DOWNLOAD CUSTOM’S CustomBuildingProducts.com MOBILE APP 800-272-8786
12 TileLetter | October 2019 THE GO-TO GROUT FOR RELIABILITY, VERSATILITY AND PROVEN RESULTS. The ultimate performance cement grout. Uniform consistent color No efflorescence Stain resistant Lightweight for superior handling Available at The Home Depot Ideal for all grout joint sizes up to 1/2" and tile distributors nationwide.
DOWNLOAD CUSTOM’S CustomBuildingProducts.com MOBILE APP 800-272-8786 Thank you 2019 NTCA Regional Program and NTCA Five-Star Contractor Program Sponsors
NTCA’s Tile & Stone Workshops and NTCA Regional Training for NTCA Members are a great opportunity to stay abreast of the latest techniques and systems for tile and stone installation.
For an easier install, use ® ™ Hydroment Vivid high performance grout
• Outstanding application & clean-up properties • Excellent working time • Very color consistent • Efflorescence resistant • Fiber reinforced for added durability • 1/16" to 1/2" grout joints
Learn how Bostik has raised the bar once again with the highest performing cement-based grout now available! Watch the Hydroment® Vivid™ video: http://bit.ly/VividVideo
For more information, contact us at: 1-800-726-7845 I www.bostik.com/us
14 TileLetter | October 2019 Ideology™ brings the history of white marble together with contemporary design.
AMERICANOLEAN.COM Visit us online for more design inspiration.
Photo features Ideology Carrara White 12x24 & Carrara Black & White Deco
©2019 American Olean
AO_TileLetter_Ad_August_1906.indd 1 6/13/19 2:02 PM EDITOR’S LETTER Lesley A. Goddin
“Defi ne success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live.” – Anne Sweeney, Co-Chair, Disney Media Networks.
Welcome to the October issue of Company’s Janet Kozey. Women’s TileLetter! This is the month we cel- work is stellar, as you can see in ebrate women in tile. the project gallery in our Hot Topics Why do we do this, you ask? Well, section, with installs by Chanel it’s often said that construction is Carrizosa, Rachel Cahalan and Jaime a man’s world and in fact, women Martin. Women are intent on cre- comprise only 9.9% of the 8.3 mil- dentialing skills, as you’ll read in our lion people in construction (but Training and Education story about that’s still that’s 821,700 women!). Carrizosa’s CTI exam in 2017. And Yet, according to an article in we also profi le a woman-owned Big Rentz (www.bigrentz.com/blog/ company in our Member Spotlight – women-construction), there’s been Fischer Tile & Marble in Sacramento 94% growth in female owners from run by Taryn Fischer. 2007 to 2018, and 9% of female- Exploring these stories also is a owned fi rms achieved revenues of testament to the tremendous support more than $500,000 in 2018. What’s offered by those in this industry – more, 4% of new construction fi rms both women AND men. While it’s were launched by women last year, true that some women have had to and 44% of the top 100 contracting deal with gender-related hurdles, companies have women in execu- we’ve also had support from many tive roles. industry sectors and won the respect So women form an important part of colleagues and customers. of the construction industries. We So enjoy this issue, and if you hap- see women’s role in our industry as pen to know a woman who’s doing well. And growing efforts are being amazing work or making inroads made to recruit more women into in our industry, email me with her our industry as the NTCA University information. It’s never too early to Update story about a new NTCA start working on the 2020 Women in recruitment video illustrates. Already Tile issue of Tileletter. we are in prominent positions, as is evidenced in the Women in Tile story God bless, that explores the careers of Schluter Systems’ Shannon Huffstickler, Lesley CTEF’s Heidi Cronin and Stuart Tile [email protected] 16 TileLetter | October 2019 MK-101 MK-370EXP™ Pro24 JCS 7” Wet Cutting 10” Tile Saw Tile Saw
• Depth of Cut: 2” • Length of Cut: 18” • Diagonally Cuts: 13” Tile
• Depth of Cut: 3” Scan for Video • Length of Cut: 24” • Diagonally Cuts: 18” Tile • Integrated Stand MADE IN USA
MK-212 Tile & Stone Saws MK-212-4 MK-212-6 • Blade Capacity: 10” • Blade Capacity: 12” • Depth of Cut: 2” • Depth of Cut: 3” • Length of Cut: 36” • Length of Cut: 72” • 2Hp/120V • 2Hp/120V
MK-225 Hot Dog MK-215GL-XL MK-62G MKS-935D
Designed to cut porcelain Engineered specifically Premium blades Turbo soft bond, best for tile with no chipping. for fine glass tile cutting. for granite. granite, marble and other hard materials.
Serving the Tile and Stone Industry for over 150 years. Phone: 1.800.421.5830 • www.mkdiamond.com © 2019 MK Diamond Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Images and specifications are subject to change without notice.
TileLetterAd_Fullpg_July_0619.indd 1 6/6/19 11:03 AM PRESIDENT’S LETTER Chris Walker Best value proposals
When is it appropriate to judge vice, and we choose to provide a product or a company only by that service for clients who show costs? A general contractor will us the minimal courtesy of at least tell you it is when they have, providing quality and timely feed- according to their process, vet- back, even if they don’t award us ted other potential bidders and the project. are satisfi ed that each bidder is Recently, I had the opportunity capable of performing the instal- to walk a developer through an lation. Notice they said capable, award-winning project we com- not qualifi ed. There is a large pleted a year and a half ago. He distinction between the two, and asked us to provide an example the amount of expense and effort of a similar project we had com- expended to properly install a pleted because he was vetting project – instead of just getting it our installation to see if we were installed – is signifi cant. CAPABLE of completing their I am concerned that GCs are not installation. We are being consid- truly capable of critically evalu- ered along with a few other can- ating what is required to judge didates and they expect to make whether an installation is done the award this week (You can ask right. This has led us to reevalu- me if we got it by the time this ate who we are providing pro- TileLetter is published). posals to and what type of work Knowing he wanted to see our we at David Allen Company bid. completed project, I offered him We will bid if we feel we have a transportation to the job. This was competitive opportunity and are an opportunity to discuss the dif- being considered with other truly ferences than make an installa- qualifi ed bidders, not a pool of tion CORRECT rather than just 10-16 bidders where the last low COMPLETE. Having an opportuni- price will win the project. We are ty to discuss specifi cs about a com- taking a much more critical view pleted installation instead of sim- of who we prepare our proposals ply walking unescorted through for. Estimating is a valuable ser- the building was very valuable. 18 TileLetter | October 2019 Veener Stone Installation System
texrite.com PRESIDENT'S LETTER ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– While together, we spoke about ect. The developer recognized our the requirements and preparation value and insisted that the local that should occur before the tile GC ask us to present a proposal or stone is ever placed to assure although I told them both we the proper performance – and would not be the low price, and Standard ultimately the longevity – of the weren’t interested in competing Benchtops fi nished product. on price alone. This was the person that needed Even if we don’t get the project, Arctic White to hear that story. This developer it’s a win. This situation shows that holds their properties and con- (hopefully) you can be considered siders them assets. They are not best value if you have a chance to Black Pearl interested in selling them in a present your value. few years as some other develop- Competing only on price under- ers do. values the experience and con- Asian Teak We were being considered for tribution you bring to a project. this new work because a few years I often advocate that you should Support ago, a stone supplier asked me to get paid for your experience and Plate for look at a local project for him. He expertise. Those opportunities do Customized was being asked to explain/defend fi lter through if you keep plug- Benchtop why their stone was cracking in ging away. I hope to share with a lobby installation. The building you all a positive result from the Stainless Steel had not even opened yet. I met situation described at the outset the developer and GC on the site. of this letter. Even if the answer They asked me to make general is no, at least we were playing in observations about the installa- the arena of being recognized as tion. On the surface, everything a best value proposal and industry seemed to check off all the right expert. boxes. I asked to see the specifi - cations, submittals and progress photos of the installation. After looking at the photos and read- Chris Walker ing the specifi cations, I informed NTCA President them that they should consider Vice President, The Universal hiring a professional consultant. David Allen Company Mounting Kit I felt that someone who is in the Chairman, ANSI A-108 • Stainless Steel Brackets business of professionally evaluat- Chairman, US TAG ISO TC-189 • Rough In Kit ing installations could prepare a Board of Directors ABC-VA • Epoxy & Waterproof Kit more detailed forensic evaluation. Voting Member TCNA Handbook Apparently that meeting left an Voting Member impression. Years later, he was NTCA Reference Manual asking us to bid his next proj- [email protected] For More Information 20 TileLetter | October 2019 hollspa.com • 800.215.0203 • [email protected] Standard Benchtops
Arctic White
Black Pearl
Asian Teak
Support Plate for Customized Benchtop
Stainless Steel
The Universal Mounting Kit • Stainless Steel Brackets • Rough In Kit • Epoxy & Waterproof Kit
For More Information hollspa.com • 800.215.0203 • [email protected] ASK THE EXPERTS
Ask the Experts Q&As are culled from member inquiries to NTCA’s Technical Support staff. To become a member and make use of personal, targeted answers from Technical Support staff to your installation ques- tions, contact Jim Olson at [email protected].
QUESTION QUESTION We are on a job won by a We’re going to use an uncou- fl ooring contractor who will install pling membrane on a wood sub- sheet vinyl or porcelain tile on a fl oor. I know when it’s a brand new concrete fl oor. We are trying to subfl oor there should be a 1/8” determine who identifi es where gap. This house has had the sub- the construction joints are and fl oor in place for the past 10 years. how they will be treated, if it is not Do I still need to cut the 1/8” gap? provided in the drawings. ANSWER ANSWER It is a best practice to have the The person with knowledge of gap in place between the wood the building and structure has (i.e. plywood/osb). Although the to identify where the joints are wood structure has been in place and how they will be honored or for 10 years, it has likely expanded treated depending on the type of or contracted over those years and joint. may do so again. The uncoupling If there are drawings and speci- membrane will likely protect from fi cations for the job, the profes- that expansion and contraction but sional that analyzed the structure I suggest following the best prac- to ensure adequacy for a tile instal- tice of opening up the gap. lation and who drew up the speci- It’s pretty easy to do. Set the fi cations is the person responsible depth of a circular saw to about for providing the tile installation 3/16”-1/4” deep (just deep enough contractor the drawings for loca- so you don’t cut the wood tongue tion and identifi cation of honoring off) and run the saw down the / treating the structural joints. joints between the sheets. Use a You can refer them to TCNA good carbide tipped blade that Handbook method EJ-171 where will give you about a 1/8” kerf or this is further defi ned. cut width. – Mark Heinlein, For the ends of the runs near the NTCA Training Director walls, use an oscillating tool to fi n- 22 TileLetter | October 2019 A-8823-0819 ©2019 International, Inc. LATICRETE shown All trademarks are of properties the their intellectual owners. respective *See Data Sheet 230.99
Waterproofing... Just add water for complete warranty information.
LIFETIME*
Warranty
n Single component – mixes only with just water n Designed for use in pools, fountains, retaining walls and below – grade application n Resists up to 2 bars of negative hydrostatic pressure www.laticrete.com 1.800.243.4788 A-8603-1118www.laticrete.com ©2018 LATICRETE International, Inc. Alll trademarksl1.800.243.4788 shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. Globally Proven Construction Solutions ASK THE EXPERTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ish opening up the gap. ASK THE EXPERTS is sponsored by – Mark Heinlein, NTCA Training Director
QUESTION Can grout and sealant be mixed together so you don’t have to seal
PRIME-N-BOND™ is a versa- the grout when it’s done? tile primer by LATICRETE designed to enhance the performance and ANSWER mechanical bond of mortars to a Sealers are not designed to be variety of smooth or low-absorptive mixed with grout. Sealers are substrates – and self-leveling under- designed to be applied to cured layments – that can be difficult to cementitious grout. bond to. There are two basic catego- PRIME-N-BOND is formulated ries of sealers. They are generally with polymers and silica aggregates designed to either penetrate the and does not require mixing or dilu- surface of the cured grout (pen- tion prior to application. This allows etrating sealer) or to cure as a for a faster preparation which can sacrificial layer on top of the cured save contractors time and money on grout (topical sealer). the jobsite. Additionally, PRIME-N- There are admixtures that are BOND is low VOC and does not specially formulated and designed emit a strong odor, making it ideal to be mixed with cementitious for use in interior or occupied areas. grout. These admixtures are usu- PRIME-N-BOND is available in ally designed to replace the need 1 gallon (3.8 liter) and 3.5 gallon for sealers. (13.3 liter) pails and is a component There are a wide variety of grouts ® of the LATICRETE Lifetime System available. Some are considered Warranty providing peace of mind ready-to-use and likely do not for trouble-free installations. require any sealing at all. Some For more information, visit powered grouts are formulated www.laticrete.com. with sealers already in the dry mixture. I suggest you contact the manu- facturer of the grout you are using to determine its properties and whether a sealer is recommended for use with it. – Mark Heinlein, NTCA Training Director 24 TileLetter | October 2019
BUSINESS TIP
How small is a small business? The answer could cost you money!
By Gene Marks
Are you a small business? That tees from the US Small Business depends on whom you’re asking. Administration (SBA), the defi ni- Lots of people I know defi ne tion of “small” really is important. a small business in lots of differ- That is why a recent announce- ent ways, with the most common ment by the SBA may have an being revenues and number of effect on your livelihood. employees. For the most part, it’s This summer, the SBA announced really not that important. “Small” is a proposed rule to modify the in the eyes of the beholder. method for calculating annual However, if you’re one of those average revenues used to deter- businesses looking to get govern- mine how big a small business ment contracts or loan guaran- is. Why the fuss? The calculation 26 TileLetter | October 2019 INFO SPECS File Name: 19-2320 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_Large and in Charge Flat Size: PR: XXXX MKT: 19-2320 Finished Size: 5.5” x 8.5" Bleed: Yes Amount: .125” 1144 E. Newport Center Dr. Designer: Georgina Morra Email: [email protected] Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 Date: August 20, 2019 3:54 PM Colors: 4/0
NOTE: COLORS VIEWED ON-SCREEN ARE INTENDED FOR VISUAL REFERENCE ONLY AND MAY NOT MATCH THE FINAL PRINTED PRODUCT.
LARGE AND IN CHARGE
Trust our complete systems for tile panel installations Gauged porcelain tile panels require specialized installation products to ensure full mortar coverage and a lifetime of low-maintenance beauty. MAPEI offers an extensive line of surface preparation products, mortars and grouts for large-tile installations.
Ultracolor ® Plus FA “all-in-one” grout resolves common problems related to Portland-cement grouts, such as color consistency and efflorescence. MAPEI Ultralite ™ S2 mortar is a smart choice, combining lightweight technology with a lower water ratio for faster curing. And getting flat walls fast is easy with Planitop ® 330 Fast fiber-reinforced wall render and vertical leveler and patch.
To learn more about MAPEI’s winning lineup, visit www.mapei.com.
MAPEI USA
19-2320 Ad_Tileletter_Oct_Large and in Charge.indd 1 8/20/19 3:56 PM BUSINESS TIP –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– fi gures into whether a business is GREEN TIP Introducing Barwalt’s latest innovation is sponsored by eligible to receive federal contracts and loan guarantees. Currently, the ® calculation uses a three-year rev- SET N SEAL enue average. The proposed rule will up that to fi ve years. TOILET BOWL SEAL
™ MAPEI Ultralite S2 is a premi- Congress may actually get some- FLEXIBLE & REPOSITIONABLE um-grade, lightweight, single-com- thing done – and give a boost to This revolutionary closed ponent thin-set mortar that is ideal retirement plans cell foam seal remains for installation of gauged (formerly The announcement comes on flexible to keep toilet “thin”) porcelain tile. This high-per- the heels of 2018’s Small Business sealed, even if there formance, highly-deformable, poly- Runway Extension Act, which is movement. Unlike mer-modifi ed mortar is formulated requires service businesses to aver- messy wax seals, with Easy Glide Technology™ for age fi ve years of revenues. Now, all SET N SEAL® can be ease of application. businesses will be subject to that MAPEI Ultralite S2 features a requirement. This is the fi rst step of repositioned as many long open time, extended cover- the implementation. times as necessary. age and superior transfer proper- So is this a good or bad thing? No sticky mess ties to enhance back-buttering, The federal government believes Won’t absorb water which is ideal for thin porcelain it’s a good thing, as do some Seal will not deteriorate over time tiles as well as ceramic tiles and experts. “In most instances, this will stone material. MAPEI Ultralite give small businesses more time Bolts and leveling wedges included S2 ’s unique Ultralite Technology™ to compete in small business set- provides twice the coverage of aside procurements,” write Suzanne a standard thin-set mortar per Sumner and Erin R. Davis of the law pound/kg and may contribute to fi rm Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP. LEED points with 20% recycled “The new fi ve-year calculation will content. www.mapei.com also allow those small businesses with an outlier year of signifi cant revenue more time to sustain the growth and prepare to compete in unrestricted competitions.”
Advertisement That position makes sense. But there are a few things about this that give me pause. For starters, I don’t like using rev- enues as a basis for determining Quality Tools = Quality Job... makes sense doesn’t it? whether a business is “small.” I have 28 TileLetter | October 2019 800.423.5243 • www.barwalt.com
2018 ad series.indd 9 7/31/19 4:31 PM Introducing Barwalt’s latest innovation SET N SEAL® TOILET BOWL SEAL FLEXIBLE & REPOSITIONABLE This revolutionary closed cell foam seal remains flexible to keep toilet sealed, even if there is movement. Unlike messy wax seals, SET N SEAL® can be repositioned as many times as necessary. No sticky mess Won’t absorb water Seal will not deteriorate over time Bolts and leveling wedges included
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2018 ad series.indd 9 7/31/19 4:31 PM BUSINESS TIP –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– a few clients, for example, that If there’s one thing I’ve learned generate big revenues because they from running a small business, sell large machines or property but it’s that you can’t apply a simple each has fewer than 10 employees. revenue formula to determine if They’re small, but not in the eyes a business is indeed small. Other of the SBA. I would prefer the rule factors should be considered. to include other factors, such as Sure, it might take a little more the number of people (and perhaps time or add more complexity. But contractors) employed, to really we’re talking about the difference determine the size of a business. between a qualifi ed company get- I’m also concerned that a grow- ting the help and opportunities it ing small company might fi nd itself deserves from the government, or excluded from federal work as a potentially failing. result of a couple of good years. ––––––––––––––– Or that larger companies that have This article originally appeared had a bad year or two might fi nd on July 2, 2019 in The Guardian at themselves classifi ed in the “small https://bit.ly/2Lwsktf. A past col- business” category, at the expense umnist for The New York Times and of small businesses already there The Washington Post, Marks now and competing for work. writes regularly for The Hill, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Forbes, Inc. Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine e-Learning Program and Fox Business. Industry and product information ––––––––––––––– in short, easy segments Marks has written fi ve books Train from the comfort of your on business management, spe- home or office anytime cifi cally geared towards small- Fast and easy to access, and medium-sized companies. listen to, and complete Nationally, Marks appears regu- larly on MSNBC and Fox News as well as The John Batchelor Show and SiriusXM’s Wharton Business Channel where he talks about the A-8827-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. A-8827-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE fi nancial, economic and technol- ogy issues that affect business lead- ers today. Marks owns and oper- ates the Marks Group PC, a highly Register today at successful ten-person fi rm that pro- laticrete.com/university vides technology and consulting services to small and medium sized businesses. www.genemarks.com 30 TileLetter | October 2019 LET US SAVE YOU TIME & MONEY!
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26419_Pro_TILE_5p5x8p5_QR.indd 1 1/28/19 4:30 PM FEATURE STORY
Margolis used local area maps in her mosaic panels design to represent the thought pat- terns of daily commuters.
In the greater New York area, more than eight million people use the subways, com- muter trains and buses of the Beautifying Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) each day to navigate the busy city. New York City The founders of the New York City subway believed that every design element one mosaic in the system should show respect to its customers and panel at a time enhance the experience. Continuing that tradition dur- ing a massive rebuilding of the system, MTA launched an 32 TileLetter | October 2019 Arts & Design division in the 1980s. Four of the artists selected for This division oversees the selection the Sea Beach Line projects – Sally of artists and installations that are Gil, Karen Margolis, Eamon Ore- permanently installed throughout Giron and Emilio Perez – selected the MTA system, “creating a fi rst-rate Mosaicos Venecianos De México, museum fi lled with more than 300 a member of TCNA Mexico, to works by world famous, mid-career translate their designs into smalti and emerging artists,” and connect- (enamel glass mosaics). The pieces ing commuters with people, sites were fabricated with LATICRETE® and surrounding neighborhoods. products and shipped to New York As part of major renovations to nine for their installation along the plat- stations along the Sea Beach Line (N) forms at MTA New York City Transit in Brooklyn, artists were selected to Authority’s 86th Street, Avenue U, create permanent artwork for inclu- 18th Avenue and Bay Parkway sta- sion in the station renovations. The tions. nine stations under construction “Given the architectural require- were originally opened in 1915, ments of these stations, we pre- and the now-completed capital con- mounted and grouted the designs struction included improvements to on aluminum panels using products each station’s platforms, overpasses, from LATICRETE, a prestigious brand stairways, canopies and columns, in leader in installation systems that we addition to permanent artwork. knew were tested and guaranteed for
For the 86th Street station, artist Karen Margolis created “Cerebration,” a glass mosaic artwork that connects people and place by transcribing destinations of the surrounding area into the mosaic work. TileLetter | October 2019 33 FEATURE: Beautifying New York City one mosaic panel at a time with LATICRETE high-performance and ideal for exterior appli- cations,” said Malena Perdomo of Mosaicos Venecianos De México.
High-traffi c and extreme temperature challenges • High-traffi c installa- tion: Just like New York City, the MTA stations never sleep. Even though the company pre-mount- ed and grouted the artwork on alumi- num panels ready for mounting to each sta- tion’s platform walls, the installations Gil’s work commissioned by MTA Arts & Design and rec- needed to be done reated by Mosaicos Venecianos De México is displayed quickly to minimize prominently and permanently at its respective station. Gil’s work was adhered to fourteen mosaic panels with interruption to MTA LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive, a chemical-resistant epoxy customers. adhesive.
Close-up of one of Gil’s Avenue U station mosaic panels, featuring the Masjid Al-Iman Islamic Center to the right. 34 TileLetter | October 2019 2019 SPECTRALOCK® Sweepstakes
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Win one of many impressive monthly prizes that help you find new ways to play hard – Kayaking, Grilling, Camping and so much more! And the Grand Prize is a Jeep Wrangler Sport! For complete details, visit www.spectralock.com A-8826-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. Globally Proven Construction Solutions FEATURE: Beautifying New York City one mosaic panel at a time with LATICRETE
• Extreme temperatures: New York she created reflects the surround- City can range in temperatures ing Gravesend neighborhood. For from -15 degrees Fahrenheit (-26 the 86th Street station, artist Karen Celsius) to upwards of 106 degrees Margolis created “Cerebration,” a Fahrenheit (41 degrees Celsius), so glass mosaic artwork that similar- it was important that the installation ly connects people and place by products chosen would be able to transcribing destinations of the sur- thrive in extreme climates to resist rounding area into the mosaic work. fractures and possible humidity issues.
A LATICRETE solution Artists Karen Margolis and Sally Gil focused their artwork on pieces that reflect the local land- scape. At the Avenue U station, artist Sally Gil’s work was recreated in a series of 14 mosaic panels titled “Edges of a South Brooklyn Sky.” A commuter passes by Ore-Giron’s work at Bay Parkway Each of the pieces station in Brooklyn.
Ore-Giron’s expansive mosaic project, “People’s Instinctive Travels: Homage to The Tribe,” visualizes the world as abstract forms and shapes and their interplay as a reflec- tion of the ways in which people of different communities interact. 36 TileLetter | October 2019
FEATURE: Beautifying New York City one mosaic panel at a time with LATICRETE
Artist Eamon Ore-Giron created is designed for use on glass tile an expansive mosaic project enti- applications and is great for exte- tled “People’s Instinctive Travels: rior installations like those at the Homage to The Tribe” that was stations. This product also offers based on six, original oil-on-linen superb color uniformity, durability paintings that were translated into and stain resistance that will stand 24 glass mosaic panels at the Bay the test of time. Additionally, the Parkway station. grout is crack resistant and ideal At the 18th Avenue station, artist for installation in areas with a wide Emilio Perez’s work was made into range in temperatures – perfect for 22 abstract mosaic murals called outdoors. “Fluxus/Rhythmus.” In an email Each of the products used conversation with Cuban Art News, received UL GREENGUARD Gold Perez credited this installation as the Certifi cations for low chemical emis- fi rst of his works to be translated into sions for sustainable building and mosaic panels. Health Product Declaration (HPD). “It was important for the mosaic This open standard provides com- to refl ect the variations of color in plete, transparent disclosure of the a brushstroke to create the sense potential chemicals of concern by of movement,” said Perez. “What I analyzing and comparing all prod- discovered is that the process used uct raw materials to authoritative for making the different color glass chemical hazard lists from around creates variations of tone much like the world. a brushstroke. This made for a seam- less transition of materials.” Outcome Each of the art installations was “Mosaicos Venecianos De adhered to aluminum panels with México is a talented fabricator that LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive, a chem- brought the artists’ work alive,” said ical-resistant epoxy adhesive that is LATICRETE Strategic Innovation easily spread and tenaciously bonds Manager Samantha Rothberg. “More to challenging substrate types. With than eight million people will get the this adhesive, the mosaic panels privilege to enjoy the mosaic panel stayed perfectly in place while on designs daily and LATICRETE prod- their excursion to New York, as well ucts helped make that possible.” as during the fast installations that The work of Sally Gil, Karen took place once onsite at the sta- Margolis, Eamon Ore-Giron and tions. Emilio Perez, commissioned by MTA SPECTRALOCK® PRO Grout, a Arts & Design and recreated by patented, high-performance epoxy Mosaicos Venecianos De México is grout, was used to fi nish off the displayed prominently and perma- pieces. SPECTRALOCK PRO Grout nently at their respective stations. 38 TileLetter | October 2019 •• • • • • • • • • • •• • • • • •
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PROFLEX® Products, Inc. manufactures state of the art products that can assist with water vapor reduction, sound control, and crack suppression. The membranes are specially designed to be used under thinset and mudset mortars and adhesives.
Sound Control: Sound abatement products are more prevalent than ever in multi-story residential, commercial, and multipurpose facilities. PROFLEX® membranes o er industry leading sound abatement performance as measured in both laboratory and eld tests. PROFLEX® products also bring the added bene ts of being produced using both recycled and renewable raw materials that are recognized by the USGBC as approved materials towards LEED projects.
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PROFLEX Products, Inc. To locate your nearest distributor, give us a call at 877- Phone: 877-577-6353 577-6353 or visit us on the web at www.pro ex.us and Web: www.pro ex.us click Dealer Locator. WOMEN IN TILE 2019 –––––––––––––––––––– Kozey Cronin Huffstickler
representatives for tile-related sup- Humility, pliers. This month, we take a look at three extraordinary women in our homework, industry and explore how they have determination, carved out a niche for their own careers and contributed to the good and of the industry as a whole: Shannon Huffstickler, Schluter Systems; Heidi documentation Cronin, CTEF; and Janet Kozey, lead to success Stuart Tile Company. for women in Shannon Huffstickler the industry The Tile Girl/Schluter Systems Shannon Huffstickler has made a By Lesley Goddin, Editor name for herself in the tile industry over the last 20 years, from her days of doing hands-on labor for According to a March 2019 story her dad’s tile installation business, on Construction Dive (https://bit. to her work as Territory Manager ly/2HhWLkN), women comprise for Schluter after 13 years of run- approximately 9.9% of construc- ning The Tile Girl business, to a tion jobs, including administrative, recent upgrade as Schluter Liaison office and executive positions, but to the Social Media Community, only 3.4% of construction field grounded in her love of being part positions. Women are on the rise as of online communities and helping construction managers with num- people in any way she can. bers growing from 5.9% in 2003 to Working for her dad, she discov- 7.7% in 2018. ered her enthusiasm for being on a In our tile industry, women are jobsite, “where both my head and seen at every level, from adminis- my hands could be fully engaged trators and owners to tile setters and and challenged.” In 2012, she was 42 TileLetter | October 2019 PRO NETWORK GET THE REWARDS YOU DESERVE
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* To start earning your monthly 5% back, see a store associate to complete a W9 or download and learn more on tileshop.com/prorewards. WOMEN IN TILE 2019 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– initially reluctant to walk away from quick to respond to anyone’s doubt her business and make the leap from in my abilities in any way other than tile setting to being a rep when her to let my work or my knowledge beloved Schluter rep Dan Wagner prove itself valuable. I just show up, let her know about an opportunity. do good work and let those in the For Huffstickler, it was an opportu- peanut gallery sort themselves out.” nity that “just felt like the right thing Some preconceptions about keep- to do for the right reasons.” Her ing a neater jobsite or being a more rep position – and her territory – sympathetic listener as a woman changed this past spring to Liaison did work in her favor as a tile setter. to the Social Media Community, And at Schluter, the perception that where she meets the demand for Huffstickler will be “helpful and fast, reliable access through social nurturing” makes it easier for cus- media to information about Schluter tomers – especially men – to reach products. Now her territory encom- passes the internet and face-to-face meetings with customers. A raft of skills and talents set the stage for her career path – “Late nights on the John Bridge Forum, reading hand-me-down TileLetters, trips to the classes available at Coverings, being mentored by a successful builder-friend about time Huffstickler’s territory encompasses the management, knowing my value/ internet and face-to-face meetings with pricing and scheduling, and good customers. old-fashioned, on-the-job training with my dad and uncle,” she said. Having a degree in English/writing also has come in handy to “con- vey technical knowledge in a way that’s understandable to people from any background or skill/expe- rience level.” Huffstickler credits her work ethic with her success. “Because I’ve always worked hard and done my homework, it’s been relatively easy to dispel anyone’s questioning of my The opportunity to leave her tile setting credibility,” she said. “I never had a business and join Schluter felt like the chip on my shoulder or was too right thing to do for the right reasons. 44 TileLetter | October 2019
WOMEN IN TILE 2019 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Tile projects from Huffstickler’s Tile Girl days.
out when there’s a gap in “their sales, accounting, truck driver and knowledge base.” management in numerous areas.” Her advice for women consider- Part of her education has been ing a tile career? “Don’t get dis- her involvement in industry asso- tracted by people who try to make ciations. “I surrounded myself with your gender into a big deal,” she people who know more than me,” said. “Be about the work. Do your she said. “I listen, learn, and let homework, learn your lessons, take them mentor me.” your lumps and stay humble. Just While she acknowledged that keep showing up and doing your “flooring and tile have been a honest best at whatever role you’re male-dominated field, in reality we in – and if things get tough, reach women are the consumers you are out to someone who’s been there selling to.” So, speaking the same before you and ask for help; we’re language and being a woman is a out here.” plus. “I know what influences us, I see and pay attention to surround- Heidi Cronin ings, I ask questions. I don’t sugar CTEF Industry Liaison and coat anything. I am blunt and to the Promotions Director point.” Heidi Cronin entered the tile industry 26 years ago, working from the ground up in the family busi- ness of distributing tile and setting material. She’s also installed tile but said, “Did I do it well? NO! I started making ceramic tile sample boards after crashing the car when I was 15 to pay off the debt. I have worked every aspect of a company: custom- Cronin takes the wheel at the Cronin er service, warehouse, purchasing, Company. 46 TileLetter | October 2019 We exceed industry standards, to deliver the quality you come to expect, from start to finish.
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generic_coverings2015.indd 4 7/2/2015 3:51:08 PM WOMEN IN TILE 2019 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– She recognized that “women will left behind.” always have to prove themselves. Many mentors and friends in the Growing up in male-dominated industry provided valuable input industry and as the boss’s daughter, and support when Cronin faced there has been a constant proving challenges. “You learn who those of self. Can we be respected? Of people are in good times and bad,” course! But if we push for change she said. “In this industry there is or challenge a male counterpart plenty of support no matter where we are considered irrational, unap- you look.” proachable and too emotional.” Sadly, she noted that for women, “it is easier to influence change if you make it look as if it is someone else’s idea.” And yet, she said, “The definition of insanity by Albert Einstein says it all: ‘Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.’ Life and technol- Cronin speaking about the Certified Tile ogy are moving at an excessive Installer credential and CTEF at a gauged rate; better keep up or you will be porcelain panel training in Portland, Ore.
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48 TileLetter | October 2019
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WOMEN IN TILE 2019 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Cronin encourages women to tile business, especially when it pursue a career in tile, half-joking comes to collections. that a “thick skin” is an essential “My main suppliers told me if I quality for working in this industry. ever retire, they want to hire me to “Tile is timeless,” she said. “It has be a collector,” she said. “I do my been around for thousands of years. homework way ahead: look and see I am amazed at how advanced tech- who the architect is, the principals nology has become, whether it is and the owners of the project. I manufacturing tile or advancements don’t take some jobs if principals, in setting materials. The knowledge etc. had a bad reputation or had needed to properly prep and install problems in the past.” She also these advancements is huge. I sup- relies on a “gut feeling” she gets port anyone going into the trade. about the jobs, sometimes a “weird Qualified labor is what will keep or bad feeling” she’s learned to lis- the industry strong.” She added, “You can do whatever you set your mind to; nothing any- one states can take away your abil- ity, determination and worth.”
Janet Kozey Stuart Tile Company Janet Kozey, owner of Macomb, Mich.-based Stuart Tile Company, Palace of Auburn Hills – home to the credits organization, professional- Detroit Pistons. ism, and listening – to the customer and one’s inner voice – among the essentials to succeed in this world of tile. That combination of skills has served her well since 1975 when she quit her job to go into the tile business with her husband. She got her start being precise and organized in her dad’s business. All eight children were trained from the age of four how to speak on the phone professionally. “My dad was kind of an army sergeant with all of us. Mom was ill. So we were very organized, had to get things done.” These skills translated well into her Custom bathroom. 50 TileLetter | October 2019
WOMEN IN TILE 2019 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ten to about a contract that helps Getting support from other women her avoid trouble. And her excellent is important too. Years ago she was a long term memory is an asset, too – member of Women in Construction recently she recalled the address of and met with about 30 women a troublesome builder her company monthly to exchange ideas. did business with years ago. They In the beginning of her time with started up again with a new name, Stuart Tile Company, she said she but the same address. “got a lot of disrespect. People She advised being personable and didn’t want to talk to me – they a good listener – even to topics wanted to talk to my husband; like unrelated to the job – to build a I was a dummy, because I was a rapport with customers. If action is girl,” she said. But that has changed, needed collecting money, she said, especially in the last five to seven it’s “sugar across the telephone – all years, where being a woman works sweet” – until she takes legal action to her advantage. “We got jobs once the invoice goes unpaid 35 in the past due to being woman days. This includes having her sup- owned,” she explained. plier put a lien on the building. As for women interested in a tile Within three to four days, she gets career, Kozey cautions, “You can be a response. great at design and color – but you Kozey said dedication and sacri- have to be organized, and serious. fice are key, too, sometimes forgo- If you give it 110%, you’ll still be ing vacations because you need around in years to come.” to be there for the work. Equally important is keeping up with tech- nology and training. “My guys went through training with Laminam panels,” she said, resulting in the smooth running of subsequent jobs. “We are a finish trade – the type of tile company that wants perfection,” she said. “You’ve got to know your math, pay attention and listen.” Pool project for Lifetime Fitness. Kozey copiously documents EVERYTHING and is keeping a journal for son Philip to refer to 15-20 years down the road. She feels documentation is the foun- dation for troubleshooting, so this journal is a way to pass on wisdom to the next generation. Mercedes Benz dealership. 52 TileLetter | October 2019 VITROMEX USA, INC. 18402 US Highway 281 N. San Antonio, TX 78259 Customer Service (800) 848-4146
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A-8822-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. www.laticrete.com l 1.800.243.4788 Globally Proven Construction Solutions TRAINING & EDUCATION –––––––––––––––– Chanel Carrizosa CTI #1380: promote qualifi ed labor fi rst
Icon Tile & Design to sponsor a female tile setter’s CTI exam
In October 2017, Chanel our price at a premium, and we try Carrizosa of Icon Tile & Design to educate consumers, distributors/ (icontileanddesign.com) in suppliers about the importance of Kirkland, Wash., was profi led as using CTIs to level the playing fi eld, one of TileLetter’s Women in Tile. since many referrals are relation- She’s been in the business since ship-based as opposed to promot- 1996, but started Icon with her ing qualifi ed labor fi rst.” husband in 2000. Carrizosa prepared for the test In the story, she declared she was by making sure her tools were planning to test for the Certifi ed ready and in good working order. Tile Installer (CTI) credential that “I wanted to make sure I was com- year, after reading about it on the fortable, and had a good playlist to Facebook groups Tile Geeks and listen to keep me going throughout Global Tile Posse. the day,” she said. “Prior to the test, Flash forward to CTI #1380, and the I had great encouragement and history is clear – Carrizosa took the support from Shon Parker, Kevin exam in Kent, Wash., at Bedrosians Insalato and Jason McDaniel.” in 2017 and passed. Now both she Carrizosa found the written and husband Jamen (CTI #1381) exam to be relatively easy, with hold the CTI credentials. its open-book format. “I did fi nd it “We heavily advertise about CTI to be very informative though and and the NTCA on our website, and learned how and what to search have incorporated [these] on busi- for, and why the information is so ness cards,” she said. “We hope important,” she said. that having this credential will keep Going into the hands-on por- 56 TileLetter | October 2019 See it First. The Future of Tile & Stone is Here. April 20 – 23 New Orleans, Louisiana
Find out more at coverings.com TRAINING & EDUCATION –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tion of the test, she wondered how to the wire but I got it done. something so small could be so “I think managing your time is a challenging as others had men- big factor on taking the test,” she tioned on social media. That was said. “I learned how to manage until it was her turn. “It was the my time better, and really how hardest 3’x3’ space I’ve had to tile,” to install correctly with approved she said. “I think a lot of it was the methods.” Carrizosa said that at pressure of it all, and the time – it the end of the test, some good just seemed to fly by. It was down shortcuts were pointed out for use on everyday jobs. She continues to seek training and certifications (like large panel tile installation training) . “Certification is important to our industry because there are a lot of people out there that think they know how to tile, but really don’t know how to tile correctly and
Carrizosa got started in tile in 1996.
Today, she is CTI #1380, and owner of Icon Tile & Design in Kirkland, Wash. 58 TileLetter | October 2019
TRAINING & EDUCATION –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– make it last,” she said. “As an and grow her expertise and busi- unregulated trade, I’m hoping this ness for the future. If this sounds is a start to get qualifi ed labor like you, and you would like to noticed by consumers, as it seems take advantage of this CTI scholar- to be so important and prevalent ship, contact Icon Tile and Design in many European countries. Many at [email protected]. other trades and jobs require cer- tifi cation, so why shouldn’t ours – especially when dealing with water-evacuation systems?” Carrizosa is cheering other til- ers on towards certifi cation. “I’d encourage other professional tile installers to take the test and join our professional community,” she said. “Besides the fact that you can always learn something, it helps identify professionals in our indus- try. Join us and be part of our movement. Installers can say how “Installers can say how good they are or how busy they are – but are they will- good they are or how busy they are ing to put their skills to the test?” asked – but are they willing to put their Carrizosa. skills to the test?”
Icon to sponsor CTI exam for female tile setter Icon Tile & Design is putting its money where its mouth is. It plans to sponsor a female tile installer from the Pacifi c Northwest who is ready and wants to take the CTI exam, within the next year. Requirements are two years working as a tile setter. The candidate is a woman who sees this opportunity as a chance Carrizosa admitted that managing her time was key to to establish credentials completing the CTI exam. 60 TileLetter | October 2019 THE ONE AND ONLY Noble Deck ™ EXTERIOR DECK WATERPROOFING Noble Deck by Noble Company is one of the only sheet membranes that is permitted for exterior installation over occupied spaces
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Coated and uncoated Sizes to fit any room, New slab or slab cap Warm floors without Snow and ice free wire for easy handling. including custom installation. Heats new flooring. Use sidewalks, patios, Install using straps or layouts. Wet area safe slab, floor surface and when under the floor entries and driveways for positioning mats. for showers. ambient airspace. access available. home or commercial.
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tileletter_mh_4_2015.indd 1 4/7/15 11:56 AM NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ————————— Fischer Tile: enriching professional experience with association membership
Outside the Fischer Tile building are Trent and Taryn Fischer, with dad Jay Fischer in the center.
Fischer Tile & Marble, based in Sacramento, Calif., (fi schertile.com), was established in 1906 by Henry Prince Fischer Sr., 113 years ago. Henry was Taryn Fischer and brother Trent’s great grandfather. This brother-sister team are now the fourth generation to lead the company. Trent runs the solid surface operation and Taryn is project managing the tile side. She got her start at the company, working during summers in high school and college, then went on to work for Daltile. “I worked for Daltile for 10 years after college, and have now been with Fischer Tile for one year,” Taryn said. “Daltile gave me an excellent foundation for the tile Trent and Taryn Fischer are the business, and helped me show my dad Jay brother-sister team at the helm of Fischer my economic value when I came to this fourth-generation business, Fischer Tile.” She now brings this corporate based in Sacramento, Calif. 64 TileLetter | October 2019 RedGard® Uncoupling Mat
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Available at The Home Depot and tile distributors DOWNLOAD CUSTOM’S nationwide. MOBILE APP CustomBuildingProducts.com *Performance based on 2016 Intertek industry study. 800-272-8786 See details on the CUSTOM website. NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– experience to the family business. NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT is sponsored by A true family business, Fischer Tile extends that family ethic and respect to its employees as well. This contrib- utes to longevity among its employees – Taryn said the average employment duration in the office is 18 years. The RedGard® family of waterproofing “We have an excellent team and and crack-isolation products from do excellent work,” she said. “I will CUSTOM® help contractors avoid future be the first woman owner (co-owner problems and complete tile installation with my brother) and I am thrilled. I projects faster. RedGard® Liquid Waterproofing and am empowered to be working in the Crack Prevention Membrane is a ready-to- construction industry and very proud use, elastomeric product with outstanding of what we do.” adhesion. It delivers durable, continuous Fischer Tile is a commercial tile coverage that exceeds and stone subcontractor with a resi- ANSI A118.10 and ANSI dential, granite and Corian business A118.12, is listed with IAPMO as a shower pan as well. This union shop – a mem- liner, and can achieve a ber of the Northern California Tile heavy-duty service rating. Setters and Finishers Union – spe- cializes in ceramic tile, stone/solid surface fabrication and installation. The company works on a wide range of projects: education (schools/uni- versities); hospitality (hotels, casinos, arenas); government (military bases, offices); corporate (utilities, offices); and healthcare (hospitals, assisted liv- ing communities). The company has RedGard SpeedCoat® Rapid Curing Waterproofing Membrane is a liquid won numerous awards for its stun- waterproofing that exceeds ANSI ning projects. A118.10 and cures in as little as one hour. Though a union shop, Fischer Tile To complete shower preparation in a day, has had a long association with the apply it over CUSTOM’s SpeedSlope® NTCA – even before it was officially Rapid Setting Sloping Mortar. “NTCA,” Taryn said. RedGard Uncoupling Mat is the crack- isolation, waterproofing and vapor- “My dad was a member of the management membrane that can be Southern Tile Terrazzo and Marble applied over challenging substrates like Contractors Association (STTMCA) in plywood and young concrete. It absorbs the late 1970s, which then became the stress of substrate movement to preserve the American Tile Terrazzo & Marble the surface and integrity of the tile and Contractors Association (ATTMCA), grout. www.custombuildingproducts.com which then became the NTCA,” she said. “He also served as President.” 66 TileLetter | October 2019
NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “I was brought up to understand fi ed apprentice program. "As an the importance of membership in Architectural Sales Representative trade organizations that create com- with Daltile, I would share the ben- munity and strengthen the industry efi ts of the programming and specify- with education/new technology train- ing qualifi ed labor,” she said. “The ing,” she said. “For me, being active more training, the better for the in trade organizations is a great way industry.” to enrich my professional experience. Taryn gets a tremendous amount The tile business is changing, improv- of joy and satisfaction from her work ing and growing. Standards and best within the tile industry. practice methods need to be created “I think the tile business is the best and met. My dad and his dad proved business,” she said. “I am so proud they understood the fl ux of industry to be part of a business that builds and have helped our business to beautiful things. Tile is a lasting fi n- thrive by being agile, ready to adapt ish; our 50-year life cycle is only the and progressive. I see the tile business beginning. I love knowing I will leave as a community. Staying involved in a sustainable and beautiful impact on the community makes us all better.” the world. I am also empowered to This union shop has a certi- be a female in the tile business.”
The VOICE of the TILE CONTRACTOR
The NTCA Reference Manual was developed to identify recurring chal- lenges to successful installations of tile and stone, recognize potential problems, and to gain consensus from industry experts on offering solutions.
Now available for purchase in print or digital download. www.tile-assn.com
National Tile Contractors Association 626 Lakeland East Drive | Jackson, MS 39232 PO Box 13629 | Jackson, MS 39236-3629 601.939.2071 | 601.932.6117 fax | tile-assn.com
68 TileLetter | October 2019 Submit 2020 CID your project and win!
The Coverings Installation & Design Awards celebrate outstanding Winners will receive: achievements in the design and installation of tile & stone in residential, • Projects displayed onsite institutional, and commercial projects. at Coverings 2020
Projects will be judged on their levels of creativity, craftsmanship, and • Prize money outstanding use of materials and success in use of tile or stone within • One-night stay (or equivalent the project categories. gift card) at Coverings 2020 • Recognition during onsite Of particular interest are projects that demonstrate an original or CID Awards Reception unusual use of materials, incorporate innovative technology, reflect installation excellence, or successfully combine aesthetics with function • Coverage in sponsored in unique ways. publications
Submit your project by December 20, 2019. Visit coverings.com/CID to enter and for more information.
Thank you to our sponsors: NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Fischer Tile projects Harrah’s Northern California Casino This project entailed setting large-format tile over a steel pedestal plate fl oor system on the casino fl oor. Fischer Tile and Marble created a system to make sure tile would be supported and effectively transition from the pedestals to concrete slab. With great communication with pedestal suppliers, underlayment representatives and the general con- tractor, the company was able to devise and execute the installation.
70 TileLetter | October 2019 With an eye always oriented towards the future
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PROLEVELING SYSTEM
PROLEVELING SYSTEM is a revolutionary and innovative tile leveling system that make tile installation faster, easier and more accurate. PROLEVELING SYSTEM uses only two elements a leveler and a reusable universal rotating cap. The system is available in 3 shapes: Cross, T and Linear and in the following grout joint sizes, 1/16” 3/32” 1/8” and 3/16” . PROLEVELING SYSTEM can be used on floor and wall tile installation with material thickness ranging between 1/8” and 1 ¼”. Linear levelers will be produced in a light blue color for di erentiation on the job site while T and Crosses will still be manufactured in white color. The new Laying Turn Remove reusable universal rotating cap in transparent polyethylene uses a unique design that allows to visually check if tiles and joints are perfectly aligned and uniform. Other parts of the system are: PROTECTION CAP: to protect the surface of floors as marbles, natural stones and polished porcelain tiles from possible scratches due to thin set residue on the reusable universal rotating cap. REMOVER: Drill attachment to remove broken levelers from the reusable universal rotating cap after installation. Protection cap Remover
North America Headquarter Corporate: GET IT ON www.progressprofiles.com Progress Profiles America Inc. [email protected] Progress Profiles SpA 4 Middlebury Boulevard (Unit 14) Certified company Randolph, New Jersey 07869 U.S.A UNI EN ISO 9001:2015 Tel. 973 584 2650 M Y L Fax 973 584 2657 A A D IT [email protected] E I N www.progressprofiles.com ® WhenWhen soundsound controlcontrol mattersmatters®
PROFLEX® Products, Inc. manufactures state of the art products that can assist with water vapor reduction, sound control, and crack suppression. The membranes are specially designed to be used under thinset and mudset mortars and adhesives.
PROFLEX® MSC is a 90 mil composite underlayment consisting of a rubberized membrane laminated to a high strength reinforcing fabric on the face and a release sheet on the adhesive side. 3 easy steps and you’re ready to lay your nish surface. Just Prime, Peel and Stick!
Advantages • Easy and fast to install with standard tools • Ready for tiling immediately after installation • Crack and joint isolation up to ⅜” • Moisture Vapor Protection up to 5#-1000sqft-24hr CaCl test Porsche Design Tower in Miami, FL. The Porsche Design Tower used a complete PROFLEX® system. The products used were RCU-250, PS-42, PS-42L, Super Stick, Perimeter Isolation • Sound Control (IIC 68, STC 72) as tested on an 8” concrete slab Barrier, and PWA-500 in the upper penthouse. with a suspended ceiling.
Featured Product Prime PS-42L (PRO-STICK 42L) is a polymer modied dry set mortar composed of lightweight aggregates, sand, cement, dry resins and other proprietary chemicals used to adhere virtually all types of tile, especially large tile units, marble, and granite to acceptable surfaces. • Large Format Tile up to 7 lbs. per sq. ft. • Lightweight Formula • ANSI A118.11 compliant Peel
Stick
PROFLEX® Products, Inc. • 877-577-6353 • www.proex.us To locate your nearest distributor, visit us on the web at www.proex.us and click Dealer Locator. ® WhenWhen soundsound controlcontrol mattersmatters®
PROFLEX® Products, Inc. manufactures state of the art products that can assist with water vapor reduction, sound control, and crack suppression. The membranes are specially designed to be used under thinset and mudset mortars and adhesives.
PROFLEX® MSC is a 90 mil composite underlayment consisting of a rubberized membrane laminated to a high strength reinforcing fabric on the face and a release sheet on the adhesive side. 3 easy steps and you’re ready to lay your nish surface. Just Prime, Peel and Stick!
Advantages • Easy and fast to install with standard tools • Ready for tiling immediately after installation • Crack and joint isolation up to ⅜” • Moisture Vapor Protection up to 5#-1000sqft-24hr CaCl test Porsche Design Tower in Miami, FL. The Porsche Design Tower used a complete PROFLEX® system. The products used were RCU-250, PS-42, PS-42L, Super Stick, Perimeter Isolation • Sound Control (IIC 68, STC 72) as tested on an 8” concrete slab Barrier, and PWA-500 in the upper penthouse. with a suspended ceiling.
Featured Product Prime PS-42L (PRO-STICK 42L) is a polymer modied dry set mortar composed of lightweight aggregates, sand, cement, dry resins and other proprietary chemicals used to adhere virtually all types of tile, especially large tile units, marble, and granite to acceptable surfaces. • Large Format Tile up to 7 lbs. per sq. ft. • Lightweight Formula • ANSI A118.11 compliant Peel
Stick
PROFLEX® Products, Inc. • 877-577-6353 • www.proex.us To locate your nearest distributor, visit us on the web at www.proex.us and click Dealer Locator. TECH TALK ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
How to ensure a successful self-leveling underlayment application
By Emily Brunner, Area Technical Specialist, H.B. Fuller Construction Products
“Self-leveling underlayment” is a bit of a mis- nomer because it requires the intervention of a thoughtful installer to ensure the best results. Follow these guidelines to prevent issues in your self-leveling underlayment installation.
1. Select a product appropriate compressive strength and flexural for the installation: Know your strength, as well as recommended installation environment and famil- cure times. iarize yourself with the relevant ASTM standards for strength. A 2. Stabilize your substrate: Most commercial floor subject to heavy products require that all surfaces rolling loads will require a higher- are fully stable and structurally grade self-leveling underlayment sound prior to the application of than a floor in a single-family a self-leveling underlayment. For home. example, wood must be securely Also, it is critical to understand fastened with screw-type or ring- your project timeline and choose a shank nails and adhesive because product that fits within the appro- if it shifts, it could cause cracking. priate schedule. Some products may require 24-48 hours prior to 3. Prepare your substrate: Make installing tile, while other more sure to plug all floor openings, gaps premium products are ready to and cracks and install termina- accept flooring in as little as 2-4 tion dams to prevent any seepage. hours. Consult product data sheets Consult with product manufactur- for information on tensile strength, ers to determine moisture limita- 74 TileLetter | October 2019
TECH TALK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tions of the self-leveler, adhesive 4. Mix properly: Mix your self- and fl ooring to determine if mois- leveling underlayment within ture mitigation is needed. the water range specifi ed on the If moisture mitigation is required, bag. Overwatering will lower the this must be done prior to installa- strength of the underlayment and tion of the self-leveling underlay- can cause cracking and pinhol- ment. ing. Additionally, a white fi lm Self-leveling underlayments (effl orescence) may form on the (SLUs) require the use of a primer surface of the cured underlay- prior to installation. Primer retains ment if the product is overwa- the moisture within the self-level- tered. This fi lm can act as a bond ing underlayment to properly cure. breaker if the mortar bonds to the Secondarily, it acts as a bonding salts instead of the SLU. Do not agent to ensure the SLU bonds over mix it, as this can make it properly to the substrate. Refer to harder to work with and lead to the primer label for information cracking or improper fl ow. Mix a regarding application methods and maximum of two bags at a time dilution per ASTM F3191. when barrel mixing to ensure Beyond priming, most self-lev- a proper blend. Follow equip- eling underlayments require that ment and product manufacturer’s the substrate be free from any con- recommendations when pumping taminants that may inhibit bond, self-leveler. including oil, grease, dust, loose or peeling paint, seal- ers, fl oor fi nishes, curing compounds or contaminants. Some underlay- ments will require a certain concrete surface profile (CSP), and in these cases, mechanical abrasion, like shot- blasting, is required. Make sure the sub- strate is contami- nant free and has the necessary sur- TEC® Level Set® 200 was designed for the fast leveling of face profi le before fl oors. It is both pourable and pumpable to fi t your job starting the pour. needs. 76 TileLetter | October 2019 With an eye always oriented towards the future Profoil Panel: Save yourself some time and money
ADVANTAGES • Extremely Rigid • Lightweight • Cuts easily with an utility knife • 100% Waterproof • Accepts modified thin sets • No waterproofing banding required ( EXCEPT STEAM SHOWER ) • No tab washers needed on floors and walls • Proband Fix high performance sealant adhesive • 10 Years Comprehensive Warranty PROFOIL PANEL SYSTEM
A waterproof, rigid, light weight panel. PROFOIL PANEL innovative design and construction combines the benefit of a high density foam with a complete waterproofing membrane. High density extruded polystyrene panels with a Profoil waterproofing membrane on both sides, ideal for light weight difficult environments installation. Its can accept polymer modified thin sets. Most application do NOT require waterproofing banding. The panels have 3’x5’ dimensions and are available in the following thicknesses. (1/4”, 3/8”, ½”, 5/8”, 1”, 1 ½”, 2”). Proband Fix is a dedicated high performance sealant adhesive that allows complete waterproofing without the use of waterproofing banding . Profoil Panels can be used on floors, walls and ceilings. Profoil Panel a better way to realize you next project.
North America Headquarter Corporate: GET IT ON www.progressprofiles.com Progress Profiles America Inc. [email protected] Progress Profiles SpA 4 Middlebury Boulevard (Unit 14) Certified company Randolph, New Jersey 07869 U.S.A UNI EN ISO 9001:2015 Tel. 973 584 2650 M Y L Fax 973 584 2657 A A D IT [email protected] E I N www.progressprofiles.com TECH TALK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 5. Be aware of product and TECH TALK is sponsored by environment temperature: Make sure that the temperature of the room is within the manufacturer’s acceptable range. A climate that is too cold or too hot can cause issues, such as increased set time in cool temperatures or reduc- tion in heal time in hot environ- H.B. Fuller Construction Products ments. Temperature and humidity introduces TEC® Ultimate 6 Plus Polymer Modifi ed Mortar specifi cally will affect fl ow, working time and designed for installing gauged por- set time. celain tile panels/slabs and large Additionally, the temperature of heavy tiles (LHT). TEC has devel- the powder and the water is cru- oped Ultimate cial. Leaving product in the sun, 6 Plus Mortar to or in a hot environment may lead meet the particu- to fl ash setting. In situations where lar challenges of warm product is unavoidable, mix- installing excep- ing with cool water may help com- tionally large thin bat installation issues. tile panels and LHT on fl oors or walls. Whether the environment is The new mortar warm or cool, acclimating the offers extreme ver- product prior to mixing is a best satility. TEC Ultimate 6 Plus Mortar practice. has a unique set of features that allows grouting in six hours – even 6. Use as recommended: Manu- when installed over the most imper- facturers will specify the maxi- vious substrates such as uncoupling mum thickness of their product. membranes. Easy-to-use Ultimate 6 Some products allow for addi- Plus Mortar has an extended pot tion of aggregate to increase the life of two to three hours and open time of 50-60 minutes, allowing depth of the pour, while oth- installers much-needed time to get ers only allow their product to full coverage and make adjustments. be used neat. Be sure to use While this TEC mortar is formulated the appropriate aggregate size for gauged porcelain tile panels/ and amount when extending a slabs and LHT, it also works well on self-leveling underlayment. If a traditional tile for both fl oor and wall surface is extremely uneven in applications. an isolated area, a patch may TEC Ultimate 6 Plus Mortar be necessary, rather than a self- exceeds ANSI A118.4TE and leveling underlayment. Consult A118.11. www.tecspecialty.com. with manufacturers to determine 78 TileLetter | October 2019
TECH TALK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– the most suitable product for your application. Protect from excessive drying due to air movement. Use of fans or other direct air fl ow is not recommended, as the surface can be prema- turely dried, leading to a weak underlayment.
7. Protect your underlayment: Generally, underlay- ments are not fi nal wear surfaces. They should be protected from construction trade traffi c until fi nal fl oor covering is applied. Traffi c without protec- tion can lead to crack- ing and disbonding. Do not allow heavy or sharp metal objects TEC® Level Set® 200 is walkable in 3-4 hours, making it a to be dragged directly great choice for fast turnaround jobs. across the surface. A common theme connects these rec- ommendations: noting and adhering to the manufacturer’s instruc- tions. You must read labels and product data sheets carefully to ensure products per- form as desired. If you do have questions, you can always reach out to the product manu- TEC® Level Set® 200 delivers extended 25-35 minute work- facturer. ing time without compromising fl ooring installation time.
Emily Brunner is an Area Technical Specialist for H.B. Fuller Construction Products covering the southern United States. Brunner works with appli- cation techniques training and troubleshooting for surface preparation, tile setting, and fl ooring adhesives. 80 TileLetter | October 2019 ANSI A137.2 Release date: July 2019 For updates: www.TCNAtile.com Now available in print and digital formats!
American National Standard Specifications for Glass Tile
ANSI A137.1 Release date: July 2019 For updates: www.TCNAtile.com
Pictured: ASTM C648 Breaking Strength Test Page 10
American National Standard Specifications for Ceramic Tile
A137.1_July2019Cover_pages.indd 1 7/18/2019 10:42:52 AM HOT TOPICS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Stunning projects by skillful female tile setters
By Lesley Goddin, Editor
In this issue of TileLetter dedicated to celebrating and recognizing women in our industry doing amazing things, we chose to present a gallery of projects by several female tile setters, who also happen to be NTCA members. Enjoy the artistry, craftswomanship and installation excellence in these projects.
Chanel Carrizosa, Icon Tile & Design, LLC Kirkland, Wash. You can read more about Carrizosa and her experience taking the Certified Tile Installer exam in this issue’s Training and Education feature. Her amazing work spans a vari- ety of projects, but this commer- cial project by Icon Tile & Design was for the Associated General
82 TileLetter | October 2019 Tiles come in thousands of colors. Now grout does too. n Fast custom ordering n Never needs sealing
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With PERMACOLOR® Select^ ANYCOLOR™, you can now offer your customers 10,000 custom grout color options available from the Benjamin Moore®† and Sherwin-Williams®† palettes. www.laticrete.com/anycolor A-8824-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. Globally Proven Construction Solutions HOT TOPICS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contractors (AGC)’s lobby. “We BUSINESS TIP is sponsored by had to wrap three elevators with 5’ x 10’ 6mm gauged porcelain panels, and install 6” x 47” planks on the fl oor,” Carrizosa said. Of course, no project is without challenges, and this was no excep- The installation of large-format tile tion. For the AGC lobby, the slabs presents a unique set of challenges for were too big to fi t in the elevators installers. Demands upon the setting so Icon had to cut them in half. mortar require a product that wets out “We did not have book-matched the back of the porcelain tile or stone as panels, but I took the time to try well as the substrate. The mortar needs and connect all the veins like a to produce superior bond strengths puzzle,” she said. while delivering the deformability to In addition, the subfl oor con- accommodate a higher degree of ditions were signifi cantly out of expansion and contraction resulting from larger tile sizes. tolerance, and the elevator thresh- MAPEI’s Thixo Technology LHT olds made it even more diffi cult to mortars exceed these large-and-heavy- get them to a manageable level. tile installation requirements with But Carrizosa said, “We were products that perform multiple functions. able to solve the issues with some Thixotropic formulations allow MAPEI’s help from our friends Mick Volponi Ultrafl or™ Plus, Ultrafl ex™ LFT ™ – who has a wealth of information and Ultrafl ex LHT to be used as on gauged porcelain panels – and both standard thin-set mortars and ARDEX rep Shaughn Lee Capua, large-and-heavy-tile mortars with non- who knows commercial projects slump performance. Ultrafl ex LFT and Ultrafl ex LHT mortars also meet ISO very well.” non-sag performance requirements The result is a stunning and for vertical applications. All three beautiful installation. LHT mortars hold ridges when larger- sized trowels are used, providing Rachel Cahalan maximum support and coverage. Tile by Rachel, LLC www.mapei.com. Springfi eld, Va. Tile by Rachel tackled this gorgeous herring- bone backsplash, a project with a very tight deadline to set Catania Blue 6” x 12” ceramic tile from The Tile Shop. 84 TileLetter | October 2019 save time! Set tile in the Same Day with Fracture Guard FD.
Merkrete Fracture Guard FD is a fast-drying crack isolation membrane for same-day tile installations. It provides a thin protection layer to inhibit substrate crack transfers up to 1/8”and conforms to any shape or pattern, allowing endless architectural designs. EXCEEDS ANSI A118.12 for Crack Isolation Membranes
Superior Crack Isolation up to 1/8” fast drying - dries in 2 to 4 hours Low VOC
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ME TL FG FD AD 0617.indd 1 6/5/17 3:02 PM HOT TOPICS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “The biggest challenge for the and always, working with a fun Contains Proprietary Tenirex project was time,” Cahalan said. pattern,” she explained. ™ Technology “The tile was delayed and I had a limited number of days, so I Jaime Martin brought in a rapid-setting mortar. Meadowlark Tile, LLC Rapid-setting mortar is fantastic, Dickinson, N.D. until you have a chipped tile that Sometimes it’s hard to 3decide INSTALL THIN has already been set. I now have between two favor- PORCELAIN absolute confidence in the supe- ite projects. So rior bonding strength of MAPEI Jaime Martin of TILE PANELS IN Rapid Setting Tile Mortar. I love Meadowlark Tile sent the colors this client selected, the two of her favorites. 3 EASY * clean, pronounced grout joints, The first project is STEPS!
1 Apply adhesive to the panel only 2 Prepare the wall surface 3 Install the panel
Use this link to view a Bosti-Set™ case study: http://bit.ly/Bosti-Set_Intro
ADVANTAGES TO THE CONTRACTOR
• Cuts installation time nearly in half • Exceptional instant grab • Trowel onto panel only, no combing on walls • Less waste than mortar • 80% less weight than mortar to stage • Easy adhesive clean up with a dry • Dust-free prior to cure cloth, even after the cure • No equipment, cords or hoses for mixing • Install over clean tile with no primer • Longer working time • Adheres to a wide range of substrates • Safer installation method at heights • Adjustable for up to 30 minutes
For more information, contact us at: 1-800-726-7845 I www.bostik.com/us
* Refer to the technical data sheet for complete installation instructions. T3117_08.11.17 86 TileLetter | October 2019 Contains Proprietary Tenirex ™ Technology
3 INSTALL THIN PORCELAIN TILE PANELS IN 3 EASY STEPS!*
1 Apply adhesive to the panel only 2 Prepare the wall surface 3 Install the panel
Use this link to view a Bosti-Set™ case study: http://bit.ly/Bosti-Set_Intro
ADVANTAGES TO THE CONTRACTOR
• Cuts installation time nearly in half • Exceptional instant grab • Trowel onto panel only, no combing on walls • Less waste than mortar • 80% less weight than mortar to stage • Easy adhesive clean up with a dry • Dust-free prior to cure cloth, even after the cure • No equipment, cords or hoses for mixing • Install over clean tile with no primer • Longer working time • Adheres to a wide range of substrates • Safer installation method at heights • Adjustable for up to 30 minutes
For more information, contact us at: 1-800-726-7845 I www.bostik.com/us
* Refer to the technical data sheet for complete installation instructions. T3117_08.11.17 HOT TOPICS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– a pebble scribe over curb and under tub. “This was a chal- lenging project because it was my first time scribing tile with a grinder,” Martin said. “I loved that I got to have free rein with creativity.” Her second project incorporated LED lighting from Backlit Tile Co., in a shower installation. “This was a real challenge installing lights that wrapped around all four walls and through two niches.”
88 TileLetter | October 2019 Why CTI?
The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation provides educa- tion and installer certifi ca- tion for professionals working in the ceramic tile and stone industry. Our installer certifi ca- tion program is the only third- party assessment of installer skill and knowledge. Visit our website for more information. www.tilecareer.com ADVERTORIAL –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H20 has got to go: the importance of water conservation at the jobsite
By Sarah Hurtado, Marketing & Communications Manager, iQ Power Tools
As more and more states and What exactly is counties begin to impose mandatory “water conservation”? water restrictions, the term “water According to wiseGEEK.com, “It’s conservation” seems to be on every- a practice in which people, com- one’s mind – whether at home, at panies and governments attempt to the offi ce and even at the jobsite. reduce their water usage. Reasons to Since each of us depends on water to conserve water may be to address an sustain life, it is our responsibility to ongoing water shortage, or to make learn as much as we can about water more environmentally friendly pro- conservation, and how to help keep cedures. It may also be practiced in our sources pure and safe for genera- response to rising water prices. From tions to come. an economic standpoint, using less
90 TileLetter | October 2019 LOSE THE WATER. CUT TILE DRY FORGET THE MESS. SAVE THE TIME. INSIDE SAVE THE MONEY.
The iQTS244™ is a 10” dry cut tile saw for professional contractors, designed to eliminate problems with cutting wet, save significant time, and increase profitability.
“...we are able to make cuts without broadcasting dust, or slopping slurry, inside the house we’re remodeling!” - Rich T., Seattle
24” RIP CUT 1” DEPTH OF CUT 11 lbs DUST CAPACITY 10” Q-DRIVE BLADE
iQ Power Tools the solution to your dust and slurry problem. Cut the hose and forget the water. 888-274-7744 iQPOWERTOOLS.COM
TILELETTER AD_062019.indd 1 6/20/19 9:28 AM ADVERTORIAL –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– water keeps the utility bills down to amount of water used on a typical manageable levels, and frees up the tile-installation job, because so many water for other important uses. factors come into play. Water is need- We’ve all turned off the water ed for general cleanup, the mixing while brushing our teeth, fixed the of setting materials, and equipment leaky toilets, abided by our town’s on site that needs water to function, lawn watering restrictions, but what i.e. tile saws. Wet saws are the most can be done at the jobsite to con- popular way to cut tile. But, and – serve this all-too-important natural here’s the big question – how “green” resource? are they? There is little to no document- The amount of water used with ed data accessible on the average wet saws has not been scientifically documented; it greatly depends on the brand and size of the saw, type and size of material being cut, expe- rience of the contractor, size of the job and much more. But, perhaps there are options. “No water and no dust makes for a very ‘green’ saw,” stated Arlene Aguilera, Product Development Project Manager at iQ Power Tools, when asked about the company’s iQTS244™, the world’s first dry-cut tile saw with integrated dust control. “Not only are contractors conserv- iQ Dry Saw in action. ing water by not needing it to cut at all; they are saving time and money with each and every cut. In addition, they are protecting themselves and their crews from the exposure to silica in the slurry mist,” continued Aguilera. “To setup a wet tile saw with a containment area takes about 15-20 minutes longer than with the iQTS244. Now factor in a jobsite where you might have to go outside to cut, especially in the winter; you are talking about more than just a few man-hours wasted dealing with Sarah Hurtado with saw. frozen water pumps and materials.” 92 TileLetter | October 2019 ADVERTORIAL –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wet saw challenges does that take? Other aqueous challenges on site • Electrical safety – such close prox- with a wet tile saw might include: imity to water needs special atten- • Finding a convenient water source tion. Risk of electric shock is great- • Is it a continuous source or will er in areas that are wet or damp. you need to haul water in contain- • Under extreme winter conditions, ers to the worksite? This can prove do you have or need a water to be quite a challenge, especially heater? It’s just one more piece of if you are working in a multi-level equipment to haul around. building. • On the other weather spectrum, • Is the source clean and uncon- extreme heat, do you need to keep taminated to use with your setting the water cool? materials and tools? Then thoughts on water conserva- • Do you have a drain or line con- tion kick back in. How much am I nection for draining the excess going to use, how much will go to water, or again, are you collect- waste, and, just who is paying for ing and transporting to a disposal this water? And finally, where am location? I going to safely dispose of all that • Can you use a pump to recirculate contaminated water? the water supply? Improper disposal of waste water • Setting up a containment area to can be costly. Aside from possible avoid spray and dust is especial- fines and penalties, it can clog pipes ly important when tending to a and pollute water drainage systems. remodeling job. Tents, tarps, traps “Illegal dumping” can lead to on- and trays: OMG! How much time the-spot fines for both the individual and their employer. Then there is the time necessary to separate solids from liquid and again, proper dis- posal of both. Is “dilution the real solution to pollution?” Probably not. According to Mike DeGiusti, presi- dent of Terra-Mar, Inc. of Oklahoma City, a NTCA Five-Star Contractor, “In our part of the country, we do not come across too many restric- tions when it comes to disposing of contaminated water, but it is almost always a concern of our crew. We want to be sure we are leaving a good water footprint whenever we Wet saw. can. When bidding projects, these TileLetter | October 2019 93 ADVERTORIAL –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘water’ details need to be taken hand with your company’s effi ciency. into account: sourcing, transporting Wasted material and resources are a and working diligently and conser- waste of money. Being proactive in vatively with water. We’ve even been controlling the water on your jobsite on projects where we have had to sets the tone on how your company take the time to separate water from does business. It shows your cus- solids, before disposing of the slurry, tomers that you are a professional, taking up lots of time when the job is you care for them, their home, your already complete.” employees and the environment. Adam DeGuisti, Vice President of The root of integrity is about doing Terra-Mar, added, “These new tech- the right thing even when it’s not nologies, like the dry saw from iQ acknowledged by others, or conve- Power Tools, have made it possible nient for you. Effi ciency and integ- for not only companies like ours to rity can go hand in hand. Having a conserve water, time and money, conscious company is about people but even more so, one- to two-man who are aware of the impact each of crews can truly benefi t from water their habits and actions has on their conserving equipment, especially in environment. It is about people who their wallets.” live their lives based on knowing that Obviously everyone’s use of water everything is interconnected. needs to be conservative. Not just for Let’s be fl uid: water equals money, our children’s and our future, but it and if you save water, you save would seem, for our bottom dollar, money – and you help save our too. Being water-wise goes hand in planet.
Erin Albrecht trying out the iQ saw. Melissa Jura with saw. 94 TileLetter | October 2019 integra all-in-one thinset and grout.
Integra is a nonabrasive all-in-one thin set and grout for glass tile installations on walls and floors. Integra was developed specifically for the installation of mosaics and glass tile of all shapes and sizes with no concerns about thin set color bleed through because the thin set and the grout are the same color. Available in 8 colors. EXCEEDS ANSI A118.4 and A118.6
Ideal for Mosaic and Glass Tile Nonabrasive Easy Application
866.516.0061 | www.merkrete.com
ME TL INTEGRA AD 0617.indd 1 6/5/17 3:01 PM NTCA UNIVERSITY UPDATE ––––––––––––––––– NTCA Women in Tile recruitment video demonstrates that the tile trade By Becky Serbin, is a perfect fi t for NTCA Education and Curriculum Director women
As we continue to develop new Construction (NAWIC). According recruiting materials, I wanted to to Construction Dive, women talk again about new materials make up between 9 and 10% of available to our members to use the construction workforce. But recruit people into the industry. think about the number of women And since this month is dedicated you actually see in the fi eld as to women in tile, let’s stick with helpers and learning or as tile set- that topic. ters. At best, I’m guessing that we You may know that there is a are hovering closer to 1% to 2% of Women in Construction Week in women working in the fi eld with March each year sponsored by the tile, which means we have a lot of National Association of Women in room to grow.
Women in tile have all it takes to make it in the tile industry. NTCA’s new Women in Tile recruitment video invites and encourages women to enter the trade. 96 TileLetter | October 2019
NTCA UNIVERSITY UPDATE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– It doesn’t matter if women are room talk happens all day. To promoted for one week in March dispel these misperceptions, we or for a month in October in decided to create a recruitment TileLetter, I think we all know that video for women featuring women women are ideal for this industry. who are already tile setters. Think about what skills it takes While there are many more to be a good tile setter: artistic, women in the trade, I want to creative, problem solving, able to thank Rachel Cahalan, Chanel follow instructions, detail orient- Carrizosa, Ilisha Harris, Jan ed, organized, and hard working. Hohn, Jaime Martin, and Bella These are all qualities that women Macedo Villa for taking the have day to day, living their lives, time to send photos, videos, so it only makes sense that the tile and quotes to use in the video. industry would be a great fi t for Their passion for the trade really women. Unfortunately, women comes through in the video and often view this job – along with shows that there is a place for other construction jobs – as part women as tile setters. of a man’s world and they don’t The great thing about the tile feel it would be a good fi t, or trade is that it doesn’t matter if you they have a perception that locker male or female, young or old, if you are entering the trade for the fi rst time, you need to start at the beginning as a helper and learn the trade while you earn. To view this recruitment
Established 1990 video, visit our NTCA Jenn YouTube channel at https:// Web Development Team Mike J. Marketing Team bit.ly/2YTMn83. And remember that we also have another recruitment video available on our Milton Web Development • Corporate Video Production Client Support Greg Graphic Designer Telephone On-Hold Messages • Printed Promotional Gear YouTube channel: NTCA’s Introduction to the Tile Review Management • Search Optimization Trade. I encourage you to Paid Search Management Anthony Audio Team use one, or both, of these Corain Web Development Team CALL US TODAY! videos in your recruitment efforts. Message me at Bryan Sales Team Manager [email protected] and I can forward it to you.
98 TileLetter | October 2019 TILE_LETTER_1019 WhatTuscan.qxp_Layout 1 8/23/19 1:38 PM Page 1
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New NTCA benefi t off ers members health, life, dental, vision and more Campbell Petrie, together with payments and more, using this elec- BENAdvance, now offers a compre- tronic process. hensive, high-quality benefi ts platform Elect medical, dental, vision, life to NTCA members. NTCA members and disability benefi ts, plus supple- and eligible family members now have mental benefi ts and lifestyle products. access to a turnkey, blue-chip benefi ts There are no eligibility restrictions package at affordable, group-discount- or minimum participation. The BEN ed rates. platform helps insurance brokers and Campbell Petrie states, “Our sole industry partners grow, the compa- mission is to help our clients attain the ny states. The result is an intuitive best possible employee benefi t prod- shopping tool that allows employees ucts that balance features and budget to shop and purchase high-demand so employers can stay competitive in supplemental insurance benefi ts and their industry by attracting top talent, attractive lifestyle products. and so employees receive the package The positive user experience contin- they deserve.” ues after purchase with A-rated carri- The convenient web-based BEN ers such as Cigna, MetLife and Chubb, portal enables NTCA members to providing excellent customer service. shop for benefi ts at work or home For more information about NTCA 24/7, every day of the year. It’s easy membership and this comprehen- to get product information and rates, sive suite of benefi ts, contact Jim complete applications, obtain bind- Olson at [email protected] or phone ing coverage, access ID cards, make 601-942-2996.
100 TileLetter | October 2019 We’ve Enhanced Our Look To Protect Yours
A bold new look on the outside, the same great formula on the inside. STONETECH® offers professional grade, safe and reliable products designed to protect, clean and transform. You can count on STONETECH to protect your business and your customer’s surfaces. www.laticrete.com | 1.800.243.4788 A-8825-0819 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. Globally Proven Construction Solutions NEWS BRIEFS For details on these and other STONEX Canada will bring togeth- stories, visit tileletter.com er leading industry professionals for interactive exhibits, educational Construction employment seminars and product demonstra- increases in 40 states and D.C. – tions to explore and learn about The Associated General Contractors stone, terrazzo, tile, ceramics, (AGC) of America tools and equipment, machinery, reported that accord- kitchen and bath, adhesives and ing to recently sealants, cleaning and restoration released America of and exterior applications. Labor Department data, between July 2018 and July StonExpo/Marmomac at TISE 2019, 40 states added construction 2020 to feature Natural Stone jobs. Texas and Wyoming have big- Pavilion – A new Natural Stone gest number and percent of annual Pavilion will debut prominently job gains, while Louisiana lags; in the middle of the show fl oor at Texas and Utah experience larg- StonExpo/Marmomac. The pavil- est one-month gains as Ohio and ion is strategically positioned near Alaska have the worst declines. the Natural Stone Institute and Association offi cials said the new the Natural Stone Council booths jobs totals indicate there is a need and adjacent to the Marmomac for new federal investments in International Pavilion. Natural career and technical education stone companies that have already programs, along with immigration reserved space in the Natural reform that would allow more peo- Stone Pavilion for 2020 include ple with construction skills to enter Coldspring, Elberton Granite the country legally. Association, Grassi Pietre, Green Mountain Soapstone, Indiana Natural Stone Institute partners Limestone Institute, Northern Stone with STONEX Canada – Natural Supply, Polycor, Vermont Verde, Stone Institute and VM Kaldorf. Future announce- will act as a part- ments are coming on additional ner of STONEX suppliers committing soon. Canada, sched- uled for May 12-14, 2020 at The International Centre in Toronto. In addition to exhibiting at the show, Natural Stone Institute will have a seat on the Education Advisory Committee with leading hard surface industry stakeholders. 102 TileLetter | October 2019 2016-10_UCTS_TileLetter_2.qxp_Layout 1 10/19/16 10:12 AM Page 1
NEW! NTCA Online Installer Training Earn an ITS Certificate Today! Earn more jobs, earn more money and avoid costly problems!
The Tile Installer Thin-Set Standards (ITS) Verification Certificate is awarded by the University of Ceramic Tile and Stone (UofCTS) and endorsed by the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA). Tile installers who successfully complete this online course that teaches industry standards and methods for adhered thin-set applications will earn the ITS Certificate. The ITS Certificate will give you credibility with your customers and will enable you to earn more jobs. Training your employees is always a good investment and it can help avoid costly failures. The ITS online course is available in English and in Spanish. Rated as a 4 hour course.
Only $100 per tuition for NTCA members Volume discounts available •Self Paced Courses •No Travel Expenses •Management Monitoring •No Lost Productivity •24/7 Internet Access •Certificate Issued
Additional online tile and stone courses are available from the NTCA website below: Understanding the NTCA Basics of Ceramic Tile and Understanding the P.O. Box 13629 Basics of Natural Stone. Jackson, MS 39236 Tel. 601-939-2071 These training courses are ideal for installers, Fax: 601-932-6117 architects, salespeople, designers or anyone interested E: [email protected] in tile and stone.
PROVIDED BY www.tile-assn.com Investing in training provides a return on investment that never ends! PRODUCT BRIEFS Itagres offers fast-track product Wrangler Sport, will be awarded in development program – This pro- January of 2020 to one lucky win- gressive Brazilian ner at an off-site event in Las Vegas manufacturer during TISE to conclude the “Work of porcelain tile Hard. Play Hard.” sweepstakes. has developed a highly special- PRODUCT BRIEFS ––––––––––––– ized program to reduce the time to introduce new For details on these and other products into the marketplace for products, visit tileletter.com its U.S. and Canadian customers. The South Florida location, head- Artistic Tile – Echo glass mosaic ed by Daniel Frasson, Director of is formed from thin strips of Jazz Operations for Itagres in the U.S., Glass encircling the center of each will expand to accommodate new diamond in gradients of color. digital equipment that will expe- Available in grey/white London dite order fulfi llment and eliminate Fog (shown) and purple/white costs and delays associated with Violin Violet. ▼ overseas shipping.
Win a Jeep in LATICRETE SPECTRALOCK sweepstakes – LATICRETE has launched a prize promotion for its U.S. and Canadian customers (excluding Quebec) to celebrate the performance of its SPECTRALOCK® product line. Now through the end of December, veri- fi ed tile and stone installation con- tractors may enter to win monthly prize drawings, including kayak, tailgating and camping packages. Schluter Systems – KERDI-DRAIN The grand prize, a 2019 Jeep® point drains now sport metallic fi n- ishes in rose gold, vintage gold, classic gold and nickel. Choose from Pure, Curve, Floral and the original grate design (shown). ▼
104 TileLetter | October 2019
PRODUCT BRIEFS Walker Zanger – A vast selection Voguebay – TAG is a collec- of semiprecious stone slabs to intri- tion of 50 unique graffi ti/street cate stone mosaics as well as large- art themed tiles from 25 artists. format stone tiles are available Each tile is an excerpt of a larger from this top supplier. New are mural. Contemporary, colorful and Fragments Terrazzo in 24” x 24” a venue for street artists whose tiles, an array of marble slabs, Jet work was licensed for this collec- Set (shown) collection of intricate tion, TAG will bring an urban vibe mid-century modern patterns, and to any setting. ▼ Pietro Bello Bianco Bello marble cut into geometric shapes. ▼
Nemo Tile + Stone – The Gouache Collection generates a sense of fl u- idity with a gently applied watercol- or effect on tiles with a soft undulat- ing surface that creates visual tex- ture and instant appeal to kitchen and bathroom spaces. Four airy colorways and three mixed decos can be used in a wall application, inspiring a cheerful aesthetic. ▼
106 TileLetter | October 2019 INFO SPECS FileName: 19-1835 Ad_New_Tileletter_July_NAA Crack-Isolation System Flat Size: PR: XXXX MKT: 19-1835 Finished Size: 5.5” x 8.5" Bleed: Yes Amount: .125” 1144 E. Newport Center Dr. Designer: Georgina Morra Email: [email protected] Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 Date: June 5, 2019 4:12 PM Colors: 4/0
NOTE: COLORS VIEWED ON-SCREEN ARE INTENDED FOR VISUAL REFERENCE ONLY AND MAY NOT MATCH THE FINAL PRINTED PRODUCT.
No callbacks with our crack-isolation system
6 5 4 3 2 1
1 Concrete 2 NA 500 Floor Patch 3 NA 1510 Membrane Primer 4 NA 1550 Crack-Isolation Membrane 5 NA 3785 Magna Flex™ Pro mortar 6 NA 4800 Ever Color™ MPG grout
There is nothing like the feeling of new home ownership… and there’s nothing like the feeling when a new homeowner calls you back to x a cracking oor. Avoid callbacks with a premium crack-isolation system from North American Adhesives (NAA). This all-in-one system is composed of a rapid-setting patch, a roller-applied primer, a conveniently exible and lightweight crack-isolation membrane, a creamy nonsag/nonslump mortar and a premium fast-setting grout. This system helps ensure that the only feelings associated with your projects will be happy ones and the only calls will be for new jobs. Call us or visit our Website for more details.
1144 E. Newport Center Drive Customer Service Deer eld Beach, FL www.na-adhesives.com Phone: 1-800-747-2722 33442
19-1835 Ad_New_Tileletter_July_NAA Crack-Isolation System.indd 1 6/5/19 4:13 PM ADVERTISER INDEX –––––––––––––––––– Alpha Professional Tools ...... 9 American Olean ...... 15 ARDEX Americas ...... 3 Armaly Brands ...... 79 Barwalt Tool Company...... 29 Best Tile...... 67 Bostik Inc...... 14, 87 Ceramic Tile and Stone Consultants ...... 103 Ceramic Tile Education Foundation...... 89 Compotite Corporation...... 25 Coverings 2020 ...... 57, 69 Custom® Building Products ...... 13, 65 Daltile ...... inside back cover Floor and Decor ...... 31 HollSpa...... 21 iQ Power Tools ...... 90 - 92, 94 Joseph Lundgren Consulting...... 48 LATICRETE International, Inc...... outside front and back cover LATICRETE International, Inc...... 54 - 55 centerspread LATICRETE International, Inc...... 23, 35, 83, 101 LATICRETE University ...... 30 MAPEI...... inside front cover - 1 MAPEI...... 27 MK Diamond Products, Inc...... 17 Mark E. Industries ...... 75 Marazzi USA ...... 39 MasterHeat ...... 62 - 63 Merkrete Systems ...... 45, 85, 95 NAC Products Inc...... 7 Noble Company...... 61 North American Adhesives ...... 107 OMG National ...... 98 Pearl Abrasive Company ...... 99 Proflex Products, Inc...... 40 - 41, 59, 72 - 73 Progress Profiles ProLeveling System ...... 71 Progress Profiles ProFoil Panel System ...... 77 Rubi Tools USA Inc...... 51 SGM Inc...... 47 Schluter-Systems ...... 49 Slip Grip ...... 58 Stabila, Inc...... 37 TexRite...... 19 The Tile Shop ...... 43 Tile Council of North America ...... 11, 81, 97, 105 TileTool.com ...... 5 Vitromex ...... 53
108 TileLetter | October 2019 Explore the possibilities and fi nd your nearest showroom at daltile.com
DAL_TileLetterAd_5.5x8.5_August_2019_KC_1906.indd 1 6/10/19 2:49 PM The Lightweight Champion! Don't fight your next Large Heavy Tile installation. Put MULTIMAX™ Lite in your corner. for complete warranty information. §Antimicrobial technology protects the treated article against mold and mildew deterioration. Antimicrobial is not d esigned to replace normal cleaning practices or protect users. A-8832-0719 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. *See Data Sheet 230.99
n Maximum Non-sag n Exceeds ANSI A118.15 n Contains no silica sand n 40 minute open time ^Trough and grate sold separately.
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