NEWH - April 2004 - (Page 71)

tips on specs… solid surfacing In a surfacing world brimming with possibilities, what differentiates that called solid? The International Solid Surfacing Fabrication Association (ISSFA) recently contacted more than 130 resources to establish the most thorough solid surface standard ever compiled, and to adapt and refine testing methods for more accurate results. Solid surfacing differs from stone in two ways: manufacturers control how it’s made and what it’s made with. Clearly, the industry has gone global, with sources now stretching from the U.S. to Korea, China, Germany, and Turkey. Though manufacturers are constantly tweaking aesthetics and performance properties, their products maintain serious pros: they are hygienic, repairable, and easily seamed. Between two and three on Mohs Scale of Hardness (10 being hardest), solid surfacing is easily carved and cut. Nearly anything you can do with woodrout, score – you can do with solid surfacing, say manufacturers. First invented with acrylic and calcium carbonate fillers, solid surfacing has evolved to include alumina trihydrate (ATH) as translucent filler, which provides for accurate color matching and superior performance. (Particulates came later, offering wider aesthetic options including speckles, patterning, and stone-like looks.) ATH represents an important development: since hydrates transfer heat to steam, solid surfacing stays cool to the touch and most carries a Class I fire rating. Market alternatives to patented acrylic-based products cropped up in polyester and blends, lending slightly different characteristics. Specifying for performance For general use, acrylic- and polyester-based products or blends work equally well. However, each product type may have advantages for specific uses. Polyester and blends typically resist damage from solvents. In a nail salon in a spa, for example, where acetone may come in contact with surfacing materials, polyester can enhance performance. Acrylic-based products may have ductile advantages – transformable, say, to a tight radius or as rippled effects. Argue about stain resistance (for which some specifiers prefer polyester) and impact resistance (for which some specifiers prefer acrylic). Hospitality’s mainstream uses widely employ both. Colorwise, dark hues may require vigilant maintenance in commercial applications to polish out scuffmarks from consistent use (as a bartop, for example). Acrylics chemically and mechanically bond at the seams; polyesters and blends mechanically bond. Both techniques are highly acceptable and nearly invisible. Beware of joints when using directional solid surfacing (which changes color or effect based on viewing angle); seams must be correctly aligned. Patchwork effects may be created by using such directional materials in opposition. Class conscious Want to get terribly creative? Consider using varying grades of solid surfacing, dependent on their applications. ISSFA offers three classifications: -Standard grade: typically 1/2-inch-thick -Veneer grade: ranging from 1/8-inch-thick to 1/4-inchthick and typically glued down to substrate for performance (SSV refers to solid surface veneer) -Design grade: altered for aesthetic purposes Ask manufacturers and fabricators about computer-generated cutting techniques such as the design relief routed for hotel showers in a recent vertical installation in 1/4inch width solid surfacing. For special applications, some producers cast sheets to 108-inch widths, at any length, to avoid seaming and achieve a monolithic look. Molded applications include basins (poured, injected, or stamped), with combined materials (such as solid surfacing and stainless steel) for effect. A recent buzz over engineered stone involves a class of products consisting of resin and stone. Closer to solid surfacing than to stone, it typically carries Class I fire ratings and offers extreme stain resistance, but is harder than solid surfacing and requires different cutting and repair techniques. Thanks to the manufacturers, organizations, and solid surfacing experts who contributed information: Lenny Elbon, International Solid Surfacing Fabrication Assocation (issfa.org); Tony DeBrizzi, Aquaware America; Terry Henderson, Wilsonart; David Orloff, Parksite Surfaces/DuPont Corian. Reprinted with permission copyright © Hospitality Design Magazine 71 http://www.issfa.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of NEWH - April 2004

NEWH - April 2004
President’s Letter
Calendar of Events
Contents
From the Editor
Hospitality News
In Memory - Thomas R. Durkan, Sr.
Top Hotel Developers - John Q. Hammons
On the Road Again
HD Expo at a Glance
Surviving HD
Did You Know
Exclusive Lifestyle by Design
If It Were Easy
The Best of Time
Talk About Fast Track
What to Expect From the Vacation Ownership Industry
A Look Back in History
The New Direction for Timeshares in Europe
Confronting the Disabilities Myth
Furnishing Today’s Timeshare
Art - The Final Piece of the Puzzle
Showcase Projects
Design Education Today
Designer Profile: Esther Dunbar-Cullum
Oh Canada, Oh Canada
Top Awards
From Across the Pond
Spotlight On...
Tips on Specs
Window Treatments 101
Hot New Products
We Want Your Projects
Bios

NEWH - April 2004