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With more and more resined material coming from block processors the question that has to be asked is this good for the industry? From the fabricators’ and homeowners’ viewpoint, what are the implications of this “new” procedure? In trying to grasp all of the issues that surround this “new” procedure, some clarity and a coordinated effort should be organized.
In talking to various people within the natural stone countertop industry, one of the biggest concerns is around the color change from the resin. While this may be acceptable to the end user, the efforts to match this same coloring on the polished edge are not so easy. The color differences between the face and the polished edge can vary in shading so much that it often looks like two different materials. How to correct his situation is still to be perfected. After researching this challenge with industry suppliers, we have been advised to try various methods with mixed results. In the event no consensus can be reached on what method is an acceptable practice, will there be an industry color consistency standard for resined material?
Outside of how the color is affected, another question is about the resin process itself. We see vast differences from slab to slab and question how the resin is actually applied.
While the correct process has been outlined in industry publications, it doesn’t always appear to us that processors follow this standard process. We have heard of deviations that include drying the slabs in the open-air sun instead of a controlled environment. The amount of resin that is applied and then removed in the final polishing clearly varies as we see different amounts of build-up on the face. How these inconsistencies in application affect the material raises the question that if it is not done correctly, does in maintain the intended benefits?
In consideration of the long-term beauty and durability of granite, one has to wonder if there are any long-term effects of resining. Seeing that some block processors, importers and even fabricators store material outside, are there any affects resulting from ultraviolet (UV) rays? Will the coloring of the material change? What if any interaction with chemicals over the long-term should be expected?
One other issue comes to mind with the resining of granite. For years, our industry has been able to market our product as “natural” versus any of the man-made solid surface products. Will that claim be legitimate with the application of resin? Are we setting ourselves up for an argument of what the definition of “natural” really is?
We believe that now is the time to develop a clear understanding, standards and processes. The MIA is in the perfect position to spearhead this effort for the good of the industry and we certainly encourage that step. We continue to take advantage of the opportunities and keep the industry strong.
We are at a transition time to define the future direction of our industry. In understanding there may be some benefits to raw material suppliers as an industry we have to be forward looking and think of how everyone is affected by this issue.
Overall, hopefully these questions will serve as a wake up call for a coordinated effort to address this issue and to help solidify our position on the usage of resin with natural products.
Source: Marble Institute
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