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BASIC FACTS
CULTURED MARBLE
Matrix: Consists of a specific combination of a polyester resin with a catalyst and calcium carbonate limestone filler. MARBLE IS A SUPERIOR PRODUCT AND LESS APT TO CRACK, CHIP OR DISCOLOR. Due to the fact that Calcium Carbonate Limestone filler is crushed up from rock, you will find that black specs appear in the Marble. This is a natural inherent property of Cultured Marble Stone, due to the Iron, Ore and other Natural Minerals that are found in rock.
CULTURED ONYX
Matrix: Uses a larger percentage of a polyester resin than cultured marble and the filler is hydrated alumina, technically known as aluminum hydroxide. This formula gives the deeper veining and translucent appearance. ONYX IS A LESS SUPERIOR PRODUCT AND IS MORE LIKELY TO CRACK, CHIP OR DISCOLOR.
CULTURED GRANITE
Matrix: Combines a pre-mixed filler of ground granite and limestone with the polyester resin.
MOLDING PROCESS
The mold is sprayed with a coat of polyester gel approximately 18-25 millimeters thick. This serves as a non-porous waterproof surface on the finished product.
FINISHING
After the product has cured, it is cleaned, ground, buffed and then polished with "Gel Gloss." Finished products to be installed are not crated, but are covered with plastic for protection. Finished products for delivery to stores for customer pickup are crated with protective spacers.
MAINTENANCE
Do not clean with a dry abrasive such as Comet or Ajax cleanser. The product "Gel Gloss" is recommended by the Cultured Marble Industry and IAPMO for cleaning and polishing; however, it will not restore an old, worn vanity top to appear like new. A tip on polishing an older vanity top is to apply toothpaste with a soft cloth or damp sponge. A last-resort method for a very old, abused vanity top would be to sand very lightly with 600-900 grit sandpaper and apply a few coats of a very good wax.
ADVANTAGES
Over natural marble, cultured marble is lighter in weight, less expensive, easier to maintain, less apt to stain and not as brittle. Cultured marble can offer an integral back splash and bowl. Over tile, cultured marble is less likely to chip or crack and does away with numerous grout lines for easy cleaning.
MAXIMUM DIMENSION
SPLASHES
Any vanity top deeper than 25" will have a separate backsplash. All vanity tops have separate end-splashes. Separate splashes can be made to any height over one inch.
CUSTOMER FURNISHES BOWL
If a customer furnishes a bowl from a manufacturer, we require a template for cut-out. There is no extra charge for this service.
WALLS AND SLABS
The maximum dimension of pieces produced is 82" x 118. Thickness for vanity tops and tub decks is 3/4". Thickness for tub facings, tub and shower walls is 3/8".
SOAP DISHES
A recessed Sweetheart III - Single soap holder is available in all materials. Overall dimensions:
5-1/2" x 6-1/2" (cut-out); actual size: 6-1/2" x 8".
A recessed Sweetheart IV - Combo soap & shampoo holder is available in all materials. Overall dimensions: 6-1/2" x 14" (cut-out); actual size: 8" x 15".
A recessed Sweetheart IV - Super soap/shampoo dish is available in all materials. Overall dimensions: 14" x 14-1/2" (cut-out); actual size: 15" x 15-1/2".
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