Like Jewelry for Your Home from the Quarry to Your Home to Seal Or Not to Seal Gallery of Ideas Exotic Stones

Vol. 1 • No. 1 • Spring/Summer 2007 $3.95

Showcasing the beauty of genuine stone.

Like Jewelry for Your Home From the Quarry to Your Home To Seal or Not to Seal Gallery of Ideas Exotic Stones

StoneDimensions Volume 1 • Number 1 From the Publishers Publishers Garen P. Distelhorst gpdistelhorst@marble-institute.com In the world of consumer publishing, there are a number of magazines that feature the Jack Seiders beauty of residential natural stone installations, but none that regularly publish a significant [email protected] collection of kitchens, baths and other residential uses of stone. That’s why the Marble Institute of America (MIA) is launching StoneDimensions, a quarterly Editor-in-Chief magazine that will mainly focus on the use of natural stone in the home, but also include William V. Levy interesting non-residential applications, too. These non-residential stories and photos will concentrate on religion, education, government and other non-commercial applications. Creative Director The genesis for StoneDimensions was a showroom DVD created by MIA to showcase a Susan D. Myers collection of outstanding residential uses of stone. With more than 165 natural stone applications included on the DVD, it became obvious that we needed to share the beauty created daily in the stone industry, in print, with the widest audience, on a regular basis.

Contributing Writers We hope that StoneDimensions will do just that. We look forward to creating a highly meaningful publication that provides its readers with solid ideas they can use throughout Kristan Welch-Swanson their homes as they plan new homes or remodel existing dwellings. We welcome Chuck Muehlbauer your suggestions!

Web site: www.marble-institute.com

Copyright © 2007 StoneDimensions. All Rights Reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. StoneDimensions and logo are registered trade marks. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Contributors and advertisers assume responsibility and liability for the accuracy of their statements and claims. StoneDimensions is published quarterly.

Garen P. Distelhorst Jack Seiders Publisher MIA President Marble Institute of America 2007

StoneDimensions 28901 Clemens Road • Suite 100 Cleveland, OH 44145 (ph) 440.250.9222 • (fax) 440.250.9223

Cover Photo Private Residence • Akron, OH Soraya Interior, Designer Photo by: William H. Webb, Infinity Studio Photography

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Features

Like Jewelry for Your Home...... 5 From the Quarry to Your Home...... 10 To Seal or Not to Seal...... 14 Gallery of Ideas ...... 15 Featured Designer: Kristan Welch-Swanson The Endless Opportunities of Remodeling ...... 20 Making the Old Look Just Like New The Challenge at Duke Universtiy ...... 24 Exotic Stones Definitely for those who want something very different...... 26 Q & A with Chuck Muehlbauer The Marble Institute of America’s Technical Director...... 29 Index of Photographs...... 30

4 StoneDimensions Like Jewelry for Your Home

Of all the accolades that have been said about the inherent beauty of natural stone, nothing says more about this wonder of nature more eloquently than the comment by a lady from the Midwest when she stood surveying her new black granite countertop, the centerpiece of a remodeled kitchen. “It’s like jewelry for your home,” she said.

StoneDimensions 5 It’s true! Selecting granite, marble, travertine between 80 and 86 percent of their For some kitchen and bath applications, or other natural stone products is a lot remodeling cost at the time of resale. these other materials might be perfectly like going to a jewelry store and choosing acceptable, depending on the budget, the a fine gem. Only in the case of jewelry, It’s important to know that natural stone scope and intent of the job and the “look” the beauty and quality of the stone is will never go out of style. It is, by far, the client is trying to achieve. ultimately discerned under a powerful the first choice in materials for kitchens microscope. With natural stone it’s right and baths around the world and growing But none of them are truly natural or offer there for the naked eye to see. by double-digit increments annually. you the opportunity to proudly proclaim, “You won’t find a countertop exactly like Real stone is the natural choice for indi- this one anywhere else in the world!” Making an intelligent choice viduals who desire something unique in countertops, vanity tops, shower stalls, The more you know about the jewel-like That’s why those who sell multiple types floors and other elements in the home. qualities of real stone, the better you can of materials say that once the facts about When a homeowner chooses natural stone, make an intelligent decision about materials natural stone versus other competing he or she is assured that no other home for that new or remodeled kitchen and products are presented to their cus- in the world will have stone that is an bath projects. tomers, the majority select the real thing. exact duplicate. Consumers have a wide choice of materials Challenging the myth that natural In addition to beauty and uniqueness, to choose from other than natural stone: stone is expensive real stone is durable, versatile, cleanable plastic laminates, stainless steel, concrete and a real value for homeowners seeking and quartz surfaces. Quartz materials are The fact is natural stone, with all of its to install a modern kitchen or bath in an available in over 30 different brands and inherent qualities, represents one of the existing home or those who are building are generally made from quartz granules great values in the home building and a new structure. Real stone adds value to mixed with resin, various colored pigments remodeling arenas. In most cases, real a home when it’s time to sell. In fact, and other materials such as mother of stone is less expensive than other premium studies show that homeowners who pearl, pieces of mirrors and semi-precious materials available for countertops, vanities, remodel and use natural stone recover stones, which are processed in a factory. shower stalls, floors, etc.

6 StoneDimensions The reasons: supply, demand and tech- some quarrying and fabricating countries been removed from the quarry, there is little nological improvements. The industry is around the world, have helped to make human intervention, except for cutting and booming as part of the recent globalization of natural stone very competitive. polishing, to bring out all of the uniqueness the natural stone business. New technologies and natural beauty. Nothing is done to and new quarries have significantly That’s why kitchen and bath professionals alter the natural state of the stone. increased the output of natural stone can’t go wrong recommending real stone. in the United States as well as in India, That’s why the number of different colors and patterns of natural stone is virtually Brazil, Spain, China, Africa, Russia and What makes natural stone different? other parts of the world. With supplies limitless. True, some common types of from the United States, Italy and other In a word, time. It has taken millions, if stone have a similar “look,” but no two traditional sources of marble, granite and not billions of years, for Mother Nature pieces are ever exactly alike. other natural stone, there is a significant to create natural stone. There are many factors that affect the ultimate graining and amount of stone now available for the Different real stone for different world to savor. It’s virtually unlimited. coloration of natural stone. These factors kitchen and bath applications include underground springs, mineral In the past, the stone industry was aware deposits, earth shifts, temperature, natural With the use of natural stone comes the that some potential sources of beautiful solutions in the earth and the pressure knowledge that there is a wide pallet of stone existed, but the cost of extracting the exerted on these elements over time. colors and materials from which the stone from the earth was prohibitive. As in Obviously, there is no way to duplicate kitchen and bath professional or designer other industries, natural stone producers these factors in a laboratory or manufac- can choose to give the customer the look and their suppliers have developed turing environment. and personality desired. advanced technologies for extracting stone from the earth, cutting the blocks of Because of the vast differences in the Kitchen countertops: Granite, one of the stone into slabs and processing/polishing conditions that created the stone, every world’s hardest materials, is the most them for eventual fabrication and instal- block extracted from the earth is different. popular choice for kitchen countertops lation in the home. These advancements, The hand of man has played no role in and other heavily used surfaces. It’s combined with favorable labor rates in the process. Even after the stone has durable, easy to maintain and available

StoneDimensions 7 “Overall, there was no statistical difference in reduction after wash and rinse for any of the four surfaces,” said Dr. O. Peter Snyder, Jr., president of the Hospitality Institute. “This indicates that the differences in surfaces used in the tests did not make a significant difference in food safety cleanability. The study, funded by the Marble Institute of America, showed that typical stone countertop materials are easily cleaned to meet FDA guidance for reducing food contact surfaces to a safe level.” The 2006 study is a follow-up to one that Dr. Snyder conducted in 1999. Granite was also named tops in cleanability in that test which involved several other surfacing materials including stainless steel, concrete, tile, wood, and plastic laminate. More information on both studies is available at www.marble-institute.com. Comparing granite countertops to those manufactured from other materials including quartz granules When it comes to resistance to bacteria, heat, scratching, staining and overall performance, granite is in a class by itself. Unlike other countertop surfaces, granite is highly heat resistant, which is a very important consideration in kitchen applications. Quartz surfaces will reportedly burn at just over 330 degrees. With too much heat, other surface materials may warp, crack and/or discolor, ruining an otherwise successful job. It is virtually impossible to damage a granite surface by accidentally placing a hot pot on it. You cannot say that about other countertop materials. in a virtually limitless array of colors and element to kitchens and great rooms, There are other reasons why granite is patterns. Marble and slate can also be staircases and fireplace facings. in a class by itself nice choices for countertops. Nature made real stone easy to clean Granite is one of the hardest materials Kitchen and Foyer Floors: Because of its on earth and is extremely scratch resistant, durability, granite tile makes for a lovely That’s one of the major advantages. Warm which is another important consideration kitchen floor. The beauty and elegance of water, mild dishwashing liquid and a soft for any kitchen. marble make it a popular choice, too. Marble cloth are all that is needed to maintain most features veining patterns and colors that natural stone surfaces and to preserve Contrary to a major misconception, most add a sophisticated element to any design. their beauty for years to come. In the case granite countertops do not have to be Marble is also highly resistant to moisture of an unfortunate stain, it can usually be sealed although many are for customer when sealed, and therefore, is an ideal removed with a poultice mixture obtained peace of mind and for an additional level choice for floors. Travertine, with its from stone suppliers. of protection. Most granite will not fade beautiful graining, also can add a classy in sunlight, which tends to be a problem look to floors and complements granite. A new study shows marble, granite and with some artificial surfaces. In the unlikely engineered stone have the same level event a countertop is stained or otherwise Baths: Marble is perhaps the most popular of cleanability. damaged, it usually can be restored to natural stone choice for bathroom walls, near original beauty and utility. That’s showers and floors. Not only is it beautiful, In 2006, The Hospitality Institute of not always the case with other surfaces. it is highly resistant to moisture and it is Technology in Minneapolis, Minnesota And, finally – indoors or out – granite is easy to maintain. conducted a study comparing four wide- an all-purpose material, which makes it ly used countertop materials – two gran- the perfect choice for the newly popular Other household applications: In addition ites, one marble and one quartz surface – outdoor kitchens. So, now that you know to the stone listed above, natural stone which showed that all are easily cleaned the facts, the choice is easy. Genuine materials like slate, sandstone, limestone to meet FDA sanitizer criteria of 5-log natural stone: created by nature over and travertine can add a unique design reduction pathogens on the surface. billions of years.

8 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 9 Ever since primitive times thousands of years ago when man first came out of his cave and started building things, the use of natural stone has been a constant. Cultures from ancient to contemporary have used natural stone to build structures to worship their gods, celebrate their beliefs, honor their dead, entertain their people and house their institutions of government.

10 StoneDimensions Thanks to new technology, the use of natural stone has expanded broadly (beyond its traditional use for exteriors and interiors of major buildings of all kinds) and is now commonly used for a variety of applications. Consumers have discovered the beauty and luxury of this unique, all-natural material for countertops, floors, baths, fireplaces and other applications. The journey from the quarry to your kitchen can begin right here in America or in quarries in such faraway lands as Brazil, Italy, India, China, Spain, Turkey, Africa and more. It all starts in the quarry. Giant blocks of granite, marble, limestone, travertine and other natural stones are cut out of the earth with tehnically-advanced cutting

StoneDimensions 11 12 StoneDimensions systems which have drastically reduced the effort it takes to achieve this once time-consuming task. The giant blocks are then moved to new high-speed gang saws which are so sophisticated and powerful that they have reduced the time it takes to slice the twenty-ton blocks into slabs by more than half. The slabs are then polished on high-speed polishing lines which feature multiple heads to speed the process. Some of the finished slabs are immediately cut into floor tile, while the rest are shipped to wholesalers and fabricators like those in your town. Many fabricators – and even architects – travel the world to hand-select the raw material in blocks or as slabs – the same ones you may inspect as you pick the perfect natural stone material for your home. Once you have selected the material that is perfect for your home, your local fabricator will do the rest - with your input, of course. While some fabricators still rely on standard measuring techniques, the most popular method for achieving a perfect fit is to prepare templates of the areas to be covered by marble, granite or other materials. The typical template is fabricated from thin wood strips that are ultimately glued together to produce a perfect replica of the area to be covered. Since walls are not necessarily 100 percent perfect, the template process takes that factor into account. In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward digital templating, too. In the shop, the templates are placed on the selected slab or piece of natural stone and adjusted to maximize the beauty of the stone. Once the template has been adjusted, the stone is cut by a precision water-cooled saw. Automated computer-guided cutting systems assure that cut-outs for stove tops, sinks, faucets and other kitchen appliances are correct. The pieces of natural stone are then edged with automated equipment or by hand. Most edging is done with powerful diamond routers using specific bits to profile the desired edges. The final shop steps are edge polishing and, possibly sealing. When all of the shop work is completed, the stone makes its final trip to your home, where skilled craftsmen install the project. From the quarry to slabbing and polishing; to measuring and templating; to cutting, edging and polishing – and, finally, installation – people in the natural stone industry strive for two things – enhancing the beauty of natural stone through perfection and your ultimate satisfaction.

StoneDimensions 13 After several months of discussions, a special expectancy of 10 to 15 years and be of To Seal or task force formed by the Marble Institute of an oliophobic (resistant to water and America (MIA), the world’s leading trade oil-based stains) nature. Once properly association for the natural stone industry, sealed, the stone will be more resistant Not to Seal has issued a policy statement covering the to everyday dirt and spills. need to seal natural stone countertops. The following is the official MIA position: In today’s natural stone industry, many species of granite receive a resin treatment Most granite countertops do not need to at the factory where the blocks of granite be sealed! Before 1995, there were very few are cut into slabs and then polished. The quality penetrating sealers on the market treatment is used to fill microfissures, and there were very few cases of staining. indentations and other minor characteristics Both prior to and after the availability that are found in many natural stones. The of penetrating sealers, no cases of food reason for the resin treatment is to address poisoning, radon or food preparation issues what most consumers consider as imper- associated with treated or untreated granites have been reported. If homeowners clean fections, but in reality are ‘birth marks.’ their countertops after each meal, they The consuming public gravitates to per- will rarely, if ever, have staining or clean- fection, defined as no ‘birth marks,’ and so ability issues with granite. All this being the marble and granite industry tries to said, many granite countertops receive fulfill the desire. Both resined as well as additional benefits from being sealed. unresined slabs will outlast most of our That benefit is the further reduction of lifetimes. Granite should, and in most moisture migration into an already moisture resistant surface. cases will, be the last countertop surface a person will buy, providing a strong Should natural stone counters be sealed? In return on investment. The bottom line: many cases it makes sense to seal marble sealing resin treated countertops may and granite countertops with a quality increase the resistance of the already sealer. The product should have a life resistant nature of stone.

14 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 15 16 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 17 18 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 19 The Endless Opportunities of Remodeling

Why move when you can upgrade your same time. You can consolidate your wall home – and your lifestyle – by remodeling? oven, microwave and warming drawer into In most markets, you can generally recoup one unit, or look into one of the newer up to 90 percent of the cost of a remodel if ranges with double ovens. You also can you sell the house within a year of com- create two separate islands; you can seat pletion of work. What a guaranteed return! visitors or children at one island and use So whether you’re seeking to sell your home the other as a preparation area, possibly or just increase your own enjoyment of it, with a vegetable sink. remodeling can be a fun and functional way to create a transformation right before Strategic lighting is a simple way to instill your eyes. a sense of openness in your working space. Remove your traditional fur downs and Kristan Welch-Swanson Kitchens and baths are among the most fluorescent lighting, and opt for installing Design Representative/Interior Designer, popular rooms to remodel – and among taller cabinets and recessed can lighting. Montelongo Homes & Remodeling the biggest selling points when your home is Staggering the wall cabinetry and adding on the market. When remodeling a kitchen, crown molding generates even more visual always look for ways to consolidate spaces interest and an undeniably finished look. and make your work areas more functional. Rope lighting along the top of upper cabinets Rather than set up your workspace in the can light up the ceiling to create a sense traditional triangle, think about establishing of increased height, and task lighting under several work stations so that multiple your wall cabinets can light up your people can work in the kitchen at the countertops and designer backsplash.

20 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 21 Installing decorative pendant lights above outside in and creating a wonderful oppor- Onyx, another countertop material, can the island or the bar areas also update tunity to show off a decorative stone be lit up underneath to create a romantic the room. mosaic or medallion above the cook top. glow. Warm colored woods are now being For maximum effect, the vent-a-hood used more as tub decks and countertops When choosing countertop materials, I should be larger than the cooking area along with stone vessel sinks. recommend that my clients use solid and should reach to the ceiling. granite countertops. Granite has a timeless When remodeling your bathroom, consider beauty with depth and movement, and The current trends for bathrooms are installing taller base cabinetry to reduce the adds an unmatched “wow” factor to any spacious and functional with all the latest need to bend as much to reach the sink technology, including multiple shower space. It’s also very durable and low and countertops, or installing a sloped heads, body sprays, air jetted whirl pool maintenance. Clients that select granite shower entrance instead of traditional bathtubs, heated floors and defogging countertops often install an under-mount thresholds that you would have to step sink, which makes it easy to keep the mirrors. Adding any of these features helps fashion a spa-like sanctuary to over. Lighting is important too, while granite clean and adds about an inch or recessed cans are great in bathrooms, it more in depth to the sink basin for large come home to at the end of a busy day. is not good for putting on make-up or pots and pans. Continuing the granite Having large showers with benches and shaving. In addition to recessed cans, up the backsplash provides a more con- grand soaking tubs are very desirable and install decorative sconces coming out of temporary feel, or you can use travertine allow the opportunity to show off beautiful or slate tiles in decorative patterns which the mirror or above the mirror to give you tile designs. I prefer to use natural materials appropriate amount of light. creates a beautiful focal point that is very like large travertine or limestone tiles on aesthetically pleasing. the floors and walls with minimal grout There is an endless amount of materials lines to create a clean open space. Then A decorative, custom vent-a-hood above the and technology for kitchens and baths that you can accent with glass or metallic tiles cook top area can be an attractive center- can appeal to every homeowner looking to achieve a custom design. Installing a piece to your newly remodeled kitchen. for an update or a change. When you are frameless shower door allows you to keep It does not have to be functioning – it can ready to create your dream kitchen or bath, the wet area contained without closing merely house lighting to show off a new make sure to call a designer to help you up the space with the traditional bulky with the space planning, materials and large range or cook top. The vent-a-hood metal shower frames. can be built out of the materials that are colors. A designer can pull it all together used on the exterior of the home like stone, Granite and marble are the most popular and make the remodel more pleasing for brick or stucco, allowing you to bring the materials used for the vanity countertops. you. The possibilities are endless…

22 StoneDimensions StoneDimensions 23 “I can’t quite figure where the new begins and the old ends” I thought, we’ve succeeded.” The Reverend Dr. L. Gregory Jones, Dean, Duke Divinity School

24 StoneDimensions Making the New Look Just Like Old

When Duke University decided to design buildings, with ramps and stairs providing replicate plaster models which themselves and build a 45,000 square foot addition to the connection. were created from castings of in-place its acclaimed Duke Divinity School, the finials existing on campus. challenge was staggering: Create a structure Months before installation, stone masons that seamlessly completed the cloister that from Rugo Stone worked in Duke’s own In addition to many Indiana Limestone is formed by the Duke Chapel, built in 1926 Hillsborough quarry preparing thousands of window surround elements and arch trim, and the “New Divinity,” wing, erected in linear feet of precise, right angle building another interesting historical twist was 1970, and the open loggia linking it to corners required by the design’s complex added by Rugo Stone for interior applica- the original Divinity building. geometry. In all, over one thousand tons of tions of stone. Originally specified in a Duke stone was delivered for installation domestic slate, approximately 4,000 As Dr. Jones indicated, “The design and of nearly 15,000 square feet of cladding. square-feet of stone, flooring steps and construction team succeeded, a fact that sills and 1,100 linear feet of base were was reinforced when the Marble Institute However, the most intriguing aspect of supplied and installed by Rugo’s masons with of America presented Rugo Stone, LLC, this historically accurate architectural gem traditional Pietra Serena stone from Italy. of Lorton, Virginia, the project stone is all in smooth finished Indiana Limestone: fabricator and installer, with an Award of twelve delicate arches, decorative bands, This material is the traditional building Merit in its prestigious Pinnacle Awards carved wall copings, and, of course, the stone of Florence and historical texts competition.” twelve historically accurate ornamental state that the great artist Michelangelo finials. These were created by master himself toiled in his youth as a quarry The Duke Divinity School addition reflects carvers in the same Rustic Buff Indiana worker in the Pietra Serena quarries. an age of skilled stone carvers of native Limestone as the original buildings. materials. The design of the addition takes Forty-eight truckloads were required for In addition to Rugo Stone, other key team advantage of a sloped site with three ter- the 380 tons that were quarried and members included Hartman-Cox Architects, raced floors. The upper and middle levels processed into 2,100 flawlessly installed Skansa USA, general contractor, and Bybee of the addition align with the first and individual pieces. Each finial alone Stone Company, Indiana Limestone basement floors of the Old and New Divinity necessitated 280 hours of shop labor to supplier and fabricator.

StoneDimensions 25 26 StoneDimensions Exotic Stones Definitely for those who want something very different

One of the things very alluring about stone, and to satisfy these people, we Giallo beach Yellow symphony natural stones, such as marble and granite, need to think about Onyx, sodalite, quartz is that you can travel the world and and agates. These stones are easily identified never find two pieces exactly alike. That as exotic by their captivating opulence literally makes your stone installation and by their high price tag.” one of a kind. “When other clients are thinking exotic, While less than 100 granite and marble they have in a very unique selection of varieties generally make up the color pallet common marble or granite in mind. But, from which U.S. consumers select their the one-of-a-kind appearance is exotic and kitchen and bath stones, there are literally appealing because it fits a design or some- Paonazetto Crow’s foot schist thousands of potential stone varieties times the stone just ‘speaks’ to a client.” when you parlay color and graining. Shedrofsky says some exotic stones are If you are looking for stones that are truly neither dramatic nor one of a kind, but the unique and generally pretty pricey, exotic stone is exotic because it is not very well- stones could fill the bill. known. “Exotic can be used to describe a multi- “Sometimes these stones are rather common tude of different stones, depending upon in the country where they are quarried, the customer,” said Mark Shedrofsky of but in our market these stones have yet Brulee onyx Dune Stone Source of New York, a major U.S. to make much of an appearance,” he stone supplier. “Some clients want the explained. “Some of the rocks can be most dramatic, unusual and expensive subtle and elegant. At first glance they

StoneDimensions 27 may not fit the common description of says exotics are determined by stone The countries that produce the most exotic, but when the job is finished and the quality and availability. exotic stones include Madagascar, The project is both unique as well as a striking Ukraine, Russia, Finland, Pakistan, Brazil, “They are usually harder to quarry than success, the stone is every bit deserving of Ireland, Australia, Sri Lanka and Italy. the more standard materials and there the description ‘exotic.’ Imagine a Zen-like Shedrofsky said picking the right fabricator may be only a limited quantity of that bathroom made of simple charcoal colored is as important as selecting the right stone. basalt, with subtle markings and shading. type of stone in the quarry,” she said. To me, this can be considered mysterious “Location of the quarry and the difficulty “Working exotic stones can be difficult,” and exotic.” in reaching the stone way up in a moun- he said. “Each stone will behave differ- tain are factors. Exotic stones are usually ently and the learning curve can be frus- Darlene Speezi, owner and president of harder than traditional stone and may trating and expensive to overcome. Mystic Granite and Marble of Orlando, take twice as long to cut, which adds to While most high quality fabricators are Florida, one of the southeast’s largest stone the cost.” distributors, has traveled the world looking familiar with working some exotic for unique stones that qualify as exotic. “Materials can become exotic if they stones, no shop can claim they have In a recent tour of her Orlando indoor become less abundant. A major factor in mastered each and every one, especially warehouse, she unblushingly showed determining the price is how rare the with new exotic stones appearing every magnificent slabs with a price tag of stone is. Excellent exotic stones can range year. An experienced fabricator will typ- $22,000 each, which means that the stone in price from $100 to $400 per square ically realize the unique characteristics of alone for a kitchen might run upwards of foot, but can be worth every penny of a stone and then have the experience $100,000, without fabrication. That’s the it in terms of the finished product.” necessary to research and learn before really high end of the spectrum. Spezzi Spezzi said. beginning the job.”

28 StoneDimensions Q & A with Chuck Muehlbauer

Q: Must I always use a Marble Institute of consider the tile to be a structural element of America (MIA) or Tile Council of America the assembly. The tile provides abrasion (TCA) recommended method to install tile resistance and aesthetic contribution only. flooring? My installer is proposing a method When used in tile thicknesses, even the strongest that is not shown by either association, but of stones would crack if not properly bedded he says he has used it before and had good over an adequately rigid substrate. The bending success with it. strength of the stone won’t really make much difference in this application. A: There are floor installations throughout the country that do not comply with either Chuck Muehlbauer, Technical Director Q: I see a reference to “blending stones” in Marble Insitute of America MIA or TCA recommendations. In some cases, the MIA Dimension Stone Manual. What the methods used demonstrate reliable and exactly does this mean? repeatable performance. It is even possible that some of these methods will someday be A: The term “blending” is most often associated incorporated into the documented installation with stone tile applications. The concept of Q: What is the temperature limit for hot methods. In many cases, however, the method field blending results from the natural color pots or pans being placed directly on a has only proven to demonstrate sufficient variation found from slab to slab and from block stone countertop? performance in one installation, and only for to block. In the production and packaging of A: The MIA recommends that trivets be used a limited period of time. A slight change in one stone tiles, stones within one box, or within between any hot pans and natural stone surfaces. of the installation variables (i.e. stone type, consecutive boxes, tend not to include the full The absolute temperature of the cookware is not span, subfloor/underlayment, traffic, etc.), or color range of the shipment. If the tiles are set normally a problem, but the thermal gradient, simply increased time in service could result sequentially as they come from the boxes, the or temperature differential that results in the in a failure of the installation. Therefore, we result is often a patchwork looking floor where stone can be a problem. When a hot piece of do not encourage installers to invent their own 10 or 20 tiles sharply contrast the next 10 or metal is placed on the stone surface, the stone systems of installation. Using a non-standard 20 tiles. The recommendation is that the rapidly heats up in this area. As the temperature method of installation places much greater installer randomly takes tiles from five or more of the stone increases, it expands dimensionally. liability on the shoulders of the designer and boxes on site, so the entire floor is “blended” Because only a small area of the stone is at with the full range of the tile color found in installer should a failure occur. an elevated temperature, only a small portion every region of the floor. of the stone slab is expanding, resulting in Q: We’re installing stone tiles where part of stresses within the stone slab. Depending on Q: What causes the “pits” in a granite? Does our substrate is concrete slab and part of our the thermal expansion properties of the stone, the presence of pits make it difficult to clean substrate is wood frame. Are there any special the difference in temperatures within the stone, the surface? considerations for this type of installation? the dimensions and shape of the stone, and the A: Pits occur in most granites and granite-like location of the heat application, these stresses A: Yes, the two areas must be treated as separate materials, and are generally the result of mica can be great enough to initiate a crack. projects. The thin-set adhesive used should be minerals, most commonly biotite, being “plucked” one that is approved for the particular substrate, from the slab during sawing or finishing Q: We installed some countertops in an upper which could mean that two different thin-set processes. The mica family of minerals are end home, including granite countertops in adhesives must be used. There must be a softer than most of the surrounding minerals the laundry room. The homeowners are now movement joint directly over the transition and are of a flaky composition, allowing this complaining of polish deterioration and even from concrete to wood frame. Care should be plucking activity to occur. This is not considered etching in the laundry room countertops. I taken to rake this joint clean, ensuring that to be a defect in the stone, nor is it considered thought nothing would etch granite. no rigid material bridges this joint. Fill the to make the stone unsuitable for countertop joint with a construction joint sealant that has A: Almost nothing. My guess in this case, is applications. In MIA sponsored studies, stone adequate extension, compression, and shear that someone who can afford natural stone slabs were intentionally inoculated with E. Coli movement capabilities to accommodate the countertops in their laundry room can also bacteria, cleaned with normal household anticipated movement between the two sub- afford to hire a person to do their laundry. If practices, and then analyzed to measure the strates. If a sealant with adequate movement that is the case, the homeowner might not know residual levels of the bacteria. Unsealed, capability cannot be sourced, the width of of everything to which the countertop has been extensively pitted granite was selected as the joint must be increased to allow the exposed. The chemical equivalent of an “Achilles one of the tested surfaces, and there was no sealant to perform. heel” for granite is HF, or hydrofluoric acid. statistically significant difference noted in the This is an acid that attacks silicates, even in cleanability of it versus other stone surfaces. Q: I cannot find information on the flexural very low concentrations. HF frequently occurs We do recommend that when stones with strength or modulus of rupture for a stone as a component of rust removers, such as some significant pitting are sold that the customer’s tile that I’d like to use in my project. Shouldn’t toilet bowl cleaners and rust spot removers attention be called to the presence of the pits the supplier have this information available? for clothing. Most likely, the countertop got during the selection process. Generally, the some level of HF exposure due to a rust spot A: When stones are used in cladding, load pits are much more noticeable in the finished remover having been spilled on the surface. bearing pavement, or other structural roles, the installation, where the slabs are horizontally Unfortunately, the only remedy would be to supplier should absolutely have this information positioned and under better lighting levels re-grind to the depth of the damage and available. In the case of a stone tile, we do not than when viewed in the warehouse. repolish the stone.

StoneDimensions 29 Index of Photographs

Cover Page 13 Page 21 Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Limestone fireplace Project Name: Private residence City: Akron, OH City: Malibu, CA Designer: Kristan Welch-Swanson Designer: Soraya Interiors Designer: Kathryne Designs, Inc. General Contractor: Installer: Mike Firlch General Contractor: Smith Bros., Inc. Montelongo Homes and Remodeling Stone Supplier: Stoneworks Installer: Executive Stone, Inc. Installer: Alamo Tile and Stone Photo Credit: Stone Supplier: Texas Quarries Stone Supplier: Alamo Tile and Stone William H. Webb, Infinity Studio Photography Page 14 Page 22 Page 5 Project Name: Cabana Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence City: Nichols Holls, OK City: New Braunfels, TX City: North Canton, Ohio Designer: Fanny Bolen Interiors Designer: Kristan Welch-Swanson Architect: AA Luketic and Associates General Contractor: Bailey Contracting General Contractor: Designer: Kim Anderson Interior Design Inc. Installer: Southwest Tile & Marble Montelongo Homes and Remodeling General Contractor: Gaetano Contractors Inc. Fabricator: Southwest Tile & Marble Installer: Alamo Tile and Stone Fabricator: Crown Tile and Marble Photo Credit: Amy McCollom Stone Supplier: Alamo Tile and Stone Photo Credit: Countertop: Giallo Beach granite William H. Webb, Infinity Studio Photography Page 23 Page 15 Page 6 Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence City: Bergheim, TX Project Name: Private residence Designer: Newville Designs Designer: Kristan Welch-Swanson City: Austin, TX General Contractor: Pacific Management Inc. General Contractor: Installer: Hill Country Granite Installer: The Stone Company Montelongo Homes and Remodeling Fabricator: Rocky Mountain Stone Fabricator: The Stone Company Installer: Alamo Tile and Stone Stone Supplier: Rocky Mountain Stone Stone Supplier: Marble & Terrazzo Supply Stone Supplier: Alamo Tile and Stone Table: Selina Gold Limestone Countertops: Sedna granite Page 24-25 Page 7 Page 16-17 Project Name: Divinity School Addition, Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence Duke University City: Austin, TX City: Clinton, OK City: Durham, NC Installer: Hill Country Granite Architect: Howell Associates Architect: Harman-Cox Architects Fabricator: Rocky Mountain Stone Designer: Linda Howell & Associates General Contractor: Skanska, USA Stone Supplier: Rocky Mountain Stone General Contractor: Joe D. Hall Installer/Stone Supplier: Rugo Stone, LLC Fabricator/Stone Supplier: Bybee Stone Company Coffee table: Multicolor Onyx Installer: Young Brothers Inc. Fabricator: Young Brothers Inc. Page 26 Page 8 Stone Supplier: Southwest Tile & Marble Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence Countertop: Maduri Gold Granite Backsplash: Champagne Gold tumbled marble mosaic City: North Oklahoma City, OK City: Canton, OH Architect: gh2 Gralla Architects, LLC General Contractor: George Ford Construction Page 18 Designer: Landolina Designs Installer: US Marble & Granite Corp General Contractor: Gumerson Bailey Associates Fabricator: US Marble & Granite Corp Project Name: Private residence Installer: Southwest Tile & Marble Stone Supplier: US Marble & Granite Corp City: North Oklahoma City, OK Fabricator: Southwest Tile & Marble Material: Copper Canyon. Architect: gh2 Gralla Architects, LLC Photo Credit: David Fitzgerald & Associates Floor/Backsplash: Travertine Designer: Landolina Designs General Contractor: Gumerson Bailey Associates Tub deck, risers, look-through fireplace: Behind cooktop: Waterjet, Honey Onyx & Black Absolute Peach Travertine mosaic tile. (backsplash designed by Maher Nukta) Installer: Young Brothers Fabricator: Young Brothers Walls & fireplace surround: Princess Yellow Travertine Page 9 Stone Supplier: Southwest Tile & Marble Floor: Princess Yellow Travertine Project Name: Private residence Opus Anticato Byzantium Marble Mosaic Medallion Page 27 Negro Marquina Marble Mosaics City: Scottsdale, AZ Project Name: Private residence General Contractor: Kitt Construction Inc. Dore Royal Marble Mosaics Rosa Verona Marble Mosaics City: North Oklahoma City, OK Installer: Drosky Tile Company Architect: gh2 Gralla Architects, LLC Stone Supplier: Arizona Tile, LLC Murgiano Marble Mosaics Giallo Romano Antique Marble Designer: Landolina Designs Page 11 General Contractor: Gumerson Bailey Associates Page 19 Installer: Southwest Tile & Marble Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence Fabricator: Southwest Tile & Marble City: Austin, TX Photo Credit: David Fitzgerald & Associates Installer: Hill Country Granite City: Austin, TX Installer: Hill Country Granite Countertop: Giallo Beach Granite Fabricator: Rocky Mountain Stone Backsplash: Rhomoid blend harlequin marble mosaic Stone Supplier: Rocky Mountain Stone Fabricator: Rocky Mountain Stone Stone Supplier: Rocky Mountain Stone with coordinating Waterjet Marble border Countertops: Delicatus Granite Flooring: Jura Limestone Bath top and feature wall: Azul Imperial Quartzite Page 28 Floors and shower: Calacatta Marble Page 12 Project Name: Burna Yacht Page 20 City: New Orleans, LA Project Name: Private residence Project Name: Private residence Designer: Mimi Fitz, Perfect Designs City: Austin, TX Designer: Kristan Welch-Swanson General Contractor: Trinity Yachts, LLC Designer: Pam Hart General Contractor: Installer: Stone Interiors, LLC General Contractor: Heyl Homes Montelongo Homes and Remodeling Fabricator: Stone Interiors, LLC Installer: Architectural Tile & Stone Installer: Alamo Tile and Stone Stone Supplier: Stone Interiors, LLC Fabricator: Architectural Tile & Stone Stone Supplier: Alamo Tile and Stone Backlit bar: Honey Onyx Stone Supplier: Architectural Tile & Stone

30 StoneDimensions Scheherazade Travertine, New Mexico

A real slice of nature.

If natural stone was part of the produce family, of the ground and to the fabricator at less cost, natural they’d probably call it organic. stone is more affordable than ever before – and in Natural stone comes the way nature has created it most cases less expensive than quartz surfaces and over millions of years. After it is quarried, blocks of other “faux” stone products manufactured in a plant. stone are cut, polished, and custom-fabricated for Beautiful, versatile, affordable, durable natural stone kitchens, baths, floors, and other residential and is the natural choice for residential, institutional commercial applications. Every piece is natural. and commercial construction. Every piece is unique. For the name of a natural stone distributor or fabricator Nothing man-made or engineered about it. in your area, visit www.marble-institute.com/register. Thanks to new sources of supply around the world When you want a slice of nature, get the real thing. and the sophisticated technology that gets it out Natural stone.