International Marble Industries, Inc.

IMI offers 6 collections for you to choose from.

admin — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 23:29:33 +0000

When deciding on construction grade composites for your wet-area needs, IMI has 6 collections for you to choose from. Each of the collections has their own unique features. One of my personal favorites is the GEM collection. Resembling what only nature can create, the GEM Collection is made with nearly all natural (non-synthetic) materials cast behind a clear gel coat. Each color has its own unique story to tell. Several ingredients in the GEM Collection are comprised of mine tailings, which are a mixture of jewelry type gemstones and minerals. This beautiful and affordable collection can be made into Vanity Tops, Shower Bases, and Shower or Tub Wall Surrounds that will rival natural stone in look with properties that only composites can offer.

Another popular collection is IMI’s Pinnacle Cast Granite. This collection creates the exquisite look of quarried granite with the technological benefits and durability of Performance Engineered Composites. The Pinnacle Collection offers a tough clear gel coat, followed by hand cast cultured granite in a continuous slab that truly mimics natural stone. This casting process provides an affordable substitute to quarried stone. It also offers a luxurious appearance, seamless construction with integral bowls and backsplashes, and water and mildew resistance. The Pinnacle Collection can be made into Vanity Tops, Shower Bases, and Shower or Tub Wall Surrounds that offer a lifetime of beauty.

IMI also offers a value engineered line of shower and tub wall surrounds for all your remodeling, single family, multi-family, and hospitality needs. The new line of shower and tub wall surrounds includes 9 exciting tile designs that offer a completely waterproof wall system, mold & mildew resistance, ease of cleaning, a permanently sealed surface, and longevity in style and performance. In addition to the practical side, the walls also transform your bathroom area into a beautiful bath!

These wall surrounds are available in a variety of solid colors as well as many shades of Cultured Granites. Our design team is available to consult on projects requiring a signature look and color.

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Whatever your needs are, IMI has an answer for you! IMI is a licensed General Contractor and we have a Certified-Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), a Licensed Master Plumber and a Certified Renovator on staff! We’d love to put all this talent to use to help you with your design and building challenges!

Visit our expanded showroom in Woodstock, GA! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you at your convenience a virtual or real life plant tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

Engineered Composites verses tile…

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 19:55:55 +0000

Tile has been a traditional pick for bathroom or kitchen remodeling projects. Tradition however, may not always be the best choice. We all agree that tile is available in a variety of colors and styles, but is it really low maintenance and easy to clean? How about these pesky porous grout lines that attract mildew and mold? Now there is a new player in town! Engineered Composites tile panels by IMI offer several features that traditional tile can’t match.

Have you ever seen a tile shower with no visible seams, no grout lines to maintain, and no tile to seal? Imagine the beauty of a product that could do both! IMI’s engineered composite tile panels are quickly becoming a top choice for today’s builder and remodeler. With plenty of choices of traditional tile patterns and colors, these panels with integral tile are a snap to install, will last a lifetime and require no special cleaners or sealers. And they have anti-bacterial properties as well!

Used in high-end hotels and first-time family homes alike, this product boasts beauty that cannot be found anywhere else. Visit us to learn more about our Bathroom Vanity Tops, Kitchen Countertops, Tubs, Shower Bases, and Shower/Tub Surrounds!

Homeowners want a product that will be durable, easy to care for and add value to their home. An engineered composite can suit all of those needs. Engineered composites are waterproof and with a non-porous surface that delivers a warmer, softer feel to the touch than cold tile.

Visit our expanded showroom in Woodstock, GA! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

Solid Surface’s for your kitchen

admin — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 09:58:36 +0000

Recently, we ran across an article titled, “Costly Stone, Alternatives to Granite Countertops” and it brought out a couple of great points in comparing Granite to Solid Surfaces.

Consider the lifespan of your countertop materials. Al Gerhart, expert in the matter, indicates that some granite and cement countertops can crack, chip, and stain, becoming unusable after just a few years of use. Solid Surface or any other engineered composite countertops are much easier to repair!

The article also described how the “mining” of granite blocks leaves a considerable impact on the environment, while conversion from blocks to usable slabs that end up in your home produces a large amount of waste for which no alternative use has been developed.

Composite products such as solid surface countertops have a far smaller “waste footprint” with a higher potential for recycling than other products.

While this article did not mention pricing, Engineered Composites such as Solid Surface materials are more affordable than ever! When you add up the benefits of affordability, longer lifespan and being safer for the environment it makes sense to look into Solid Surfaces for your next kitchen countertop!

IMI’s Kitchen Counter Tops are manufactured using the newest technology in Solid Surface Polymers and MasterCast Performance Engineered Composites. They also can be made in dimensions that will work in any type of kitchen.

When you need a beautiful solid surfacing material that’s economical and as durable as premium solid surface sheets, there’s only one solution – VISION by International Marble Industries. Vision is a combination of solid surface polymers and cultured marble matrix. Vision Kitchen Countertops offer an elegant matte finish with four special edge choices as standard. Vision is seamless in most applications up to 140″ x 74″. The durable surface resists burns, scratches, scuffs, stains and corrosion. Vision countertops retain their color and are UV stabilized.

Our kitchen showroom at 304 Bell Park Drive shows our full line of products and is open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

Specification sheets now available from IMI!

admin — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 19:24:18 +0000

To assist with today’s fast paced work environment, IMI is making our Technical Specifications Sheets available to YOU! With these tools in hand, you will never have to turn down a customer, or any job that seems too difficult to quote.Specification sheets are available for the following product lines:

Wall Surrounds
Standard Shower Bases
Custom Shower Bases
U Curbs
Vanity Tops/Bowls
Standalone Bathtubs
Decked Bathtubs
Under Mount and Drop-In Bathtubs
Other (Trim-Edges-Access Ramps)

All of the specification sheets are available to download directly from our website here!

admin — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:07:00 +0000

One of the fastest and easiest ways to stay up to date with IMI is to subscribe to our newsletter.

IMI’s playing golf to help others!

admin — Tue, 18 May 2010 20:16:14 +0000

IMI has always believed in giving back to our community! We take part in several different events over the course of the year, but golf might be our favorite way to give back.

Recently, Dirk DeVuyst and Nathan Rivera along with Mickey Moore and Randy Reed, played at Bradshaw Farms to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network.

IMI has been participating to help the Children’s Miracle Network for the last ten years, and plans to continue in the future.

Dust Free Marble Cutting!

admin — Thu, 06 May 2010 19:10:08 +0000

Anyone who has ever built or remodeled a home knows that one of the biggest concerns is dust! Nothing is worse than having dust and debris all over your jobsite. The key to dust control is to minimize the introduction and creation of dust during the project. As a builder or remodeler, it is important to work with subcontractors that understand and respect your requirements.

IMI has recently acquired new, state of the art power tools that make cutting cultured marble wall panels, vanity tops, and shower bases virtually dust free! As you can see in the videos below, the dust that would normally be created, simply isn’t. IMI’s commitment to you, our customers, is to provide you solutions for all your bathroom building or remodeling needs!

Another benefit to our customers is that IMI is able to offer a knowledgeable staff who hold various industry specific certifications! IMI is a licensed General Contractor with a Licensed Plumber and a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) on staff. IMI also recently received the EPA-RRP Lead-Safe Certification. Whether your project is brand new construction, an older home or somewhere in the middle, IMI is poised to offer you a solution for all your wet-area needs! Including dust free cutting!

If you would like to visit our showroom we would love to show it to you! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

In honor of earth day!

admin — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 18:52:59 +0000

In honor of earth day today, IMI wanted to spotlight how we are always looking for ways to manufacture the best MasterCast Engineered Composites offering earth friendly options. Two things IMI is able to do in the manufacturing process is offer soy based resins and recycled glass.

Soy resins can be used in the manufacturing of kitchen and bath surfaces such as seamless shower pans and shower walls, countertops and other surfaces for commercial and residential construction and remodeling. One of the interesting facts about using soybeans for non-tofu-related purposes is that it isn’t a new concept. Henry Ford was widely known as a soybean fanatic in the 1930s when, in his efforts to meld America’s agricultural and manufacturing industries, he designed an entire car made with soy-based plastic panels. (source article)

IMI gets creative with backfill materials, using glass dust at times. Glass dust is the scrap of glass recycling. The U.S. generates 13.6 million tons of glass waste per year (EPA, 2007) with 24% of that number going to recycling uses. We have been experimenting with recycled glass and are pleased with our results! In fact the best way that you could see what the possibilities are is to schedule an appointment to tour our showroom and maybe take a peek at our plant! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday and you can reach us at 770.928.2252.

IMI is a Lead-Safe Certified Firm!

admin — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:50:14 +0000

IMI has fulfilled the new requirements of the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA). The EPA realized the growing concern about lead-based paints in homes and businesses and the real health hazard this situation poses for families and children.

In response to this concern, the EPA has established a new rule focused on renovation, repair and painting work. Beginning April 2010, all renovation, repair, and painting work done on structures built prior to 1978 are required to be done by an EPA certified firm, and a Certified Renovator from that firm must be on site during critical stages of the work.

IMI is excited that we have completed the EPA’s requirements, and if you would like to see our certificate you can view it here: IMI’s Certification. IMI is always committed to not only the highest standards in the manufacturing process, but also having the staff you need whether it is a General Contractor, a Certified-Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), a Licensed Master Plumber or a Certified Renovator!

With IMI’s Gold Services program you can be assured that our cultured marble, cultured granite and SSP materials are members of the flourishing family of MasterCast Engineered Composites. Guided by industry quality control testing and standards since 1974, MasterCast™ is the product of choice for decorative and functional surfacing such as countertops, bathtubs, custom shower bases, shower/tub walls, and more.

If you are interested in seeing a video of how IMI can transform your bathroom, you can click here or here for our most recent YouTube videos!

IMI’s Tile Shower to MasterCast Shower in One day!

admin — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 15:09:02 +0000

Featuring removal of all tile, install custom shower base, new valve, MasterCast walls, valve trim and shower door.

If you would like to schedule a time to discuss your multi-family or single-family bathroom needs, we are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

IMI’s newest combination!

admin — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:38:29 +0000

Every bathroom may have the same necessities; a vanity, toilet, tub and/or shower. But everything else is the frosting on the cake! IMI’s frosting’s include different edges for vanities & tub decks, 6 Color Collections, tile-look shower/tub wall patterns and the ability to customize your shower base and drain location.

The pictures above show our 5’ Bath Tub with built-in armrests, Signature Granite Collection 12” x 12” Slate Tile-Look with Simulated Grout Line wall surrounds, and matching Signature Granite Collection Vanity Top. We produced the vanity top with a solid white integrated bowl to further enhance the beauty and style our MasterCast™ Engineered Composites provide.

IMI has a wide range of products that will suite your wants and needs! In a price that you can afford! To add some frosting to your bathroom such as our wall surrounds, in addition to the ones pictured above, we have several other designs to choose from. These surrounds can transform your bathroom, make it easier to clean, and eliminate your fear of water leaks all at the same time!

We understand that many times when you are remodeling your bathroom, it is because of a particular need. We strive to meet those needs and give you a finished product that is beautiful too! IMI is a licensed General Contractor with a Licensed Plumber and a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) on staff.
If you would like to schedule a time to discuss your bathroom remodeling needs, we are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

Universal Design

admin — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 19:35:18 +0000

Many residential contractors are embracing a universal design principle. The goal is simple: Create living spaces that accommodate all people – from the able-bodied to the elderly and physically handicapped–without the need for adaptation or specialized design. The concept is especially marketable to the Active Adult baby-boomer population. “We are seeing the need for universal design and its’ implementation is quickly becoming accepted as normal throughout the country. You can see it in all facets of the residential building industry, including single-family, multi-family, and remodeling.” says Joel A. Bump, CAPS, EPA-RRP Certified. “Smart developers are building spaces that can be used by a larger group of people for a larger period of time.” (Source: http://www.multifamilyexecutive.com/finishes-and-surfaces)

IMI understands both the consumer needs and the builder needs. We currently have a Certified Aging In-Place Specialist (CAPS), EPA-RRP Certification, General Contractor & Master Plumber Licenses, and an Engineer on staff. The knowledge that these individuals bring to the table makes IMI and our MasterCast Engineered Composite vanity tops, tubs, shower bases, and wall surrounds the perfect choice for all your bathroom designs!

IMI’s Tub to Shower Conversion

admin — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 20:10:45 +0000

The MAREN introduced at the Atlanta Home Show!

admin — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:01:50 +0000

IMI had a great time at the Atlanta Home Show. There were bigger crowds than we had seen in the recent past, which was really exciting! It was great getting to talk with people, answer questions and introduce our newest tub, The MAREN!

The MAREN

The MAREN Stand Alone Soaking Tub is a MasterCast Engineered Composite™ that will offer ageless luxury to your bathroom interior. Our Designer Luxury Baths are manufactured with materials that offer the authenticity of stone to make them hard wearing, yet are lighter and warmer to the touch than stone. The bath combines contemporary and classic design, and presents a minimalistic look to fit into any style of bathroom. The MAREN is available in Solid White, Solid Biscuit, and Solid Almond in a gloss or matte finish. It is also available in our Signature Collection of MasterCast Engineered Composites™ which can also be selected for matching custom shower bases and vanity tops.

If you would like to visit our showroom to see this tub or any of our other products, we would love to show it to you! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour. Our phone number is 770.928.2252. We look forward to hearing from you!

IMI is headed to the Atlanta Home Show March 19th-21st.

admin — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:52:10 +0000

In addition to IMI there will be over 300 participating companies offering you the latest home remodeling related products and services. IMI has products that can help whether you are buying or selling a home, adding an aging member of your family to the household, or if you are just looking to transform your bathroom!

The Spring Atlanta Home Show has been coming for 32 years! This year it is at the Cobb Galleria Centre. For more information on the hours and admission you can visit the website here.

The IMI Difference

admin — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:07:32 +0000

IMI offers a hassle-free, all-in-one, custom remodeling process for the wet areas of your bathroom. Visualize your own private sanctuary, complete with the highest quality MasterCast Engineered Composite products that will add enduring beauty to your most personal space. Our Cultured Marble products can transform any bathroom into an area of beauty. Relax while our expert team of in-house trained staff builds the bathroom of your dreams!

Why IMI?

You can expect us to be fast and accurate. These enviable attributes are a “by product” of our incredible systems and processes that sets IMI apart from other companies.
Our accelerated time schedule minimizes disruptions to your home, family, pets or work life. Efficiency and experience combine to insure the highest quality in the shortest time frame.

Expert Design and Construction – Who knows bathrooms better than a company dedicated to one thing? IMI recently celebrated 25 years in the business of bathrooms! IMI is a GA State Licensed General Contractor, GA State Licensed Master Plumber, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist, and EPA Certified.

Our years of experience help you create the bathroom of your dreams with the best products available. IMI is a manufacturer and fabricator of MasterCast Performance Engineered Composites, including Cultured Marble, Spray Granite, Cast Granite, and Spray Solid Surface Polymers. Our products include Vanity Tops, Soaking Tubs, Whirlpool Tubs, Shower Bases, Shower Wall Surrounds, Tub Wall Surrounds, and Stand Alone Luxury Tubs.

No Subcontractors – You know who is in your home and can trust our highly trained and experienced teams.

One Stop Shop – Convenience and a seamless process eliminate mistakes.

It’s as simple as one phone call! We handle all the details. All you have to do is imagine your new bath!

Guaranteed Price – Cost variances are a thing of the past.

You know exactly what you’re getting and exactly how much it will cost upfront. We price your project from a place of knowledge and experience, rather than a place of “guessing and hoping”.

What are you waiting for; call IMI today to set-up a free consultation! 770.928.2252

Joel is now CAPS Certified!

admin — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 02:24:15 +0000

Shower and tub wall surrounds for all your needs!

admin — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:58:39 +0000

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Int’l. Marble Industries, Inc. (IMI) has introduced a new VALUE ENGINEERED line of shower and tub wall surrounds for your multi-family, and hospitality needs. The new line of shower and tub wall surrounds includes 9 exciting designs that offer a completely waterproof wall system, mold & mildew resistance, ease of cleaning, permanently sealed surface, and longevity in style and performance. In addition to the practical side, the walls also transform your bathroom area into a beautiful bath!

These wall surrounds are available in Solid White, Solid Biscuit, Solid Almond, and Sandy Beach Cultured Granite. Our design team is available to consult on projects requiring a signature look and color.

If you are remodeling or building new hotels, apartments, condominiums, student dorms, assisted living facilities, or hospitals, these wall surrounds can transform the bathroom while helping you stay within your budget. In addition to the wall surrounds, we also offer a full range of products for any of your bathroom needs. Call us now for a quote on current and future projects! Our Sales Team can be reached at (678) 501-6002 or sales@intlmarbleindustries.com.

IMI’s full line of MasterCast engineered composites™ includes cultured marble vanity tops, cultured marble shower bases, easy access shower bases, and several other lines that you can see at our website or by visiting our showroom, in Woodstock, GA.

IMI now has two Certified Renovators!

admin — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:14:38 +0000

You can be assured the IMI’s Gold Services keep you and your family at the top of our priority list! Across the US, there is a growing concern about lead-based paints in homes and businesses and the real health hazard this situation poses for families and children.

In response to this concern, the EPA has established a new rule focused on renovation, repair and painting work. Beginning April 2010, all renovation, repair, and painting work done on structures built prior to 1978 are required to be done by a EPA certified firm and a Certified Renovator from that firm must be on site during critical stages of the work.

IMI has staff already on board who passed the EPA’s safety course this month. IMI is committed to not only the highest standards in the manufacturing process, but also having the staff you need whether it is a General Contractor, a Certified-Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), a Licensed Master Plumber or a Certified Renovator!

With IMI’s Gold Services program you can be assured that our cultured marble, cultured granite, and SSP materials are members of the flourishing family of MasterCast Engineered Composites. Guided by industry quality control testing and standards since 1974, MasterCast™ is the product of choice for decorative and functional surfacing such as countertops, bathtubs, custom shower bases, shower/tub walls, and more.

FMLS Member Perks Program

admin — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:21:12 +0000

International Marble Industries, Inc (IMI) offers the total solution for your bathroom remodeling needs. Count on IMI to deliver fast, affordable and guaranteed work! We are a locally owned business celebrating 25 years.

Our products meet not only your practical side but also your luxurious side. Visit our website to experience our full line including vanity tops, bath tubs, jetted tubs, shower bases, shower and tub wall surrounds, and kitchen counter tops.

To say “thank you” to our FMLS partners, we are excited to offer a 15% discount, up to a maximum of $400, on any project.

Call us today at 770-928-2252 to schedule your free estimate. Be sure and mention that you would like the FMLS discount when you call. Contact: Dirk DeVuyst at (770)928-2252 or visit www.intlmarbleindustries.com for company information.

Walk in tub rental or purchases, your choice!

admin — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:40:35 +0000

Many of us have an aging parent or family member that we are trying to help with. Possibly, a handicapped member of your family needs help bathing. Sometimes it can be hard when you have limited capabilities to do even the most basic tasks, such as bathing yourself. There is a great solution out there for those with physical limitations, called a Walk In Bathtub. IMI is excited that we can offer these tubs, which can provide a wonderful way for your parent or physically challenged family member to keep their independence and enjoy the rejuvenating effects of a cleansing bath.

IMI actually has two options; you can purchase one or rent one. We have a special website set up here that gives you more information on the renting of a walk in tub. If you are interested in more information in the purchase or rental of one, you can call (678) 501-6010 and speak with Joel, our Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS).

One great thing about Walk In Bathtubs is they’re standard size bathtubs, so they’ll fit in the same space your old bathtub occupied. What makes them so helpful for elderly or handicapped persons is that they have a door built into the side, so you can just walk in to the tub, rather than lifting your legs and hips to get in and out of the bathtub. Walk In Bathtubs also have non-slippery surfaces, so the common slip and fall bathing accidents and injuries can be avoided.

If you’ve been looking at options for your elderly or physically challenged parent or family member, Walk In Bathtubs provide a great solution. Walk In Bathtubs are easy to use, safe, and allow your loved ones to maintain their independence for the private task of bathing. IMI has a wide range of bath products that will meet all your bathroom needs. In addition to the walk in tubs we also offer, walk in showers, showers made with a wheelchair accessible ramp and corner seats for the shower that can be added to your existing shower.

First Newsletter of 2010!

admin — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:50:03 +0000

Check out our first newsletter of 2010… IMI’s Gold Services Program!

The smallest room in your house!

admin — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 21:55:07 +0000

The smallest room in your home may require the largest number of professionals to remodel. With IMI’s Remodeler’s Edge, we have a general contractor, plumber and install crews that will be able to transform your bathroom all from the same location, International Marble Industries, in Woodstock, Georgia!

Every bathroom may have the same necessities; a vanity, toilet, tub and/or shower, but everything else is the frosting on the cake! IMI’s frostings include different edges for vanities, colors, patterns and the ability to customize your shower base or drain.

One of the first things you’ll consider when thinking about a bathroom remodel is the tub or shower. This choice sets the tone for the rest of the project. Do you dream of a whirlpool tub for leisurely soaking? Do you need a walk-in tub for health or safety reasons? Or maybe you just need an inexpensive alternative to what you currently have.

IMI has a wide range of products that will suite your wants and needs! In a price that you can afford to add some frosting to your bathroom, such as our wall surrounds. These surrounds can transform your bathroom and make it easier to clean all at the same time!

We have a showroom right here in Woodstock, GA if you are in the area, you can call us to make an appointment or you can visit our website to see more of our products!

MasterCast Engineered Composites is the product of choice!

admin — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 01:23:32 +0000

With IMI’s Remodeler’s Edge program you can be assured that our cultured marble, cultured granite, and SSP materials are members of the flourishing family of MasterCast Engineered Composites. Guided by industry quality control testing and standards since 1974, MasterCast™ is the product of choice for decorative and functional surfacing such as countertops, bathtubs, custom shower bases, shower/tub walls, and more.

Through the process of “casting,” or pouring chemically bonded mineral fillers into molds, Int’l. Marble Industries can create cast polymer products in custom shapes, designs, textures and colors. Finished products combine the beauty and functionality of natural stone with the ability to be shaped. IMI’s MasterCast™ allows homeowners and builders unlimited applications in a price point that is affordable.

Among the many advantages of IMI’s MasterCast™:

• Molded to fit many shapes and applications;

• 48 Exclusive IMI colors;

• Stain, burn and scratch resistant;

• No seams or grout to collect germs

or bacteria;

• Adds lasting value to your home; and

• Priced to fit your budget.

MasterCast™ Engineered Composite products from International Marble Industries, Inc. include:

Standard Vanity Tops

Custom Vanity Tops

Whirlpool Tubs

Drop-In Tubs

Stand Alone Luxury Tubs

Standard Shower Bases

Custom Shower Bases

Soap & Shampoo Holders

ADA Custom Shower Bases

“ACHIEVE” Easy Access Ramp

Shower Seats

Shower & Tub Wall Surrounds

There is no better product for so many uses … or with so many options. Whether you’re in search of a standard vanity top or the complete line of International Marble Industries, Inc. products, our MasterCast™ Engineered Composites offer you the flexibility and the aesthetics you desire.

If you would like to visit our showroom we would love to show it to you! We are open by appointment from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call us and we would be happy to give you a tour.

Corner Seat from IMI

admin — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 21:58:11 +0000

Int’l. Marble Industries, Inc. has everything you need whether you are a Do-It-Yourself type or looking for a complete remodel. We specialize in MasterCast Performance Engineered Composites, including Cultured Marble, Spray Granite, Cast Granite, and Spray Solid Surface Polymers for the bathroom and kitchen. Today’s featured product is a corner seat in a box, ready to be installed quickly and easily by most anyone!

The Corner Shower Seat conveniently fits into the corner of a shower stall and provides a safe, comfortable seat for people who have difficulty standing for long periods of time. It’s easy to install, maintain and keep clean. The IMI Corner Shower Seat is available in any color from our 6 Color Collections. IMI invites you to call for your pricing based on color and destination.

We will give you the “Remodelers Edge” when you decide to enrich your lives and your bathroom, whether it is with something simple like a corner seat or with a big project. Isn’t it time to let IMI give you the edge?

Did you know IMI has custom shower bases and drains?

admin — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 01:05:09 +0000

Int’l. Marble Industries, Inc. has a full range of products that will indulge your senses and provide the safety you need. You can choose a Tub to Shower Conversion that gives you more freedom and eliminates the need to step up and over the tub wall. Or, IMI can produce a custom shower base with the “ACHIEVE” Easy Access Ramp, which eliminates the curb and allows for No Barrier access. And, the IMI shower bases and ramp are both ADA rated for slip resistance.

We understand that many times when you are remodeling your bathroom, it is because of a particular need. It may be age, illness, injury, or simply a new preference. We strive to meet those needs and give you a finished product that is beautiful too! IMI is a licensed General Contractor with a Licensed Plumber and a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) on staff. We will give you the “Remodelers Edge” when you decide to enrich your lives and your bathroom. Isn’t it time to let IMI give you the edge?

Do you know what all IMI offers?

admin — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 01:17:52 +0000

Did you know that IMI provides more than just single-family kitchen and bath products?

IMI has a full line of MasterCast Engineered Composites that can be used in any type of kitchen or bath; single family, multi-family, student living, and assisted living facilities. IMI is a leading manufacturer and fabricator of MasterCast Performance Engineered Composites, including Cultured Marble, Spray Granite, Cast Granite, and Spray Solid Surface Polymers. IMI products can be made to meet any dimensions you may need; from one sink basin to multi-sink basins. Our products include Vanity Tops, Bath Tubs, Whirlpool Tubs, Shower Bases, Shower Wall Surrounds, and Tub Wall Surrounds.

Our Kitchen Counter Tops are manufactured using the newest technology in Solid Surface Polymers and MasterCast Performance Engineered Composites. They also can be made in dimensions that will work in any type of kitchen.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to remodel your kitchen or bath, or involved in the design of a multi-need facility, IMI is ready to meet all your needs! All of our products are manufactured in our plant in Woodstock, Georgia. When you are in the area we would love to give you a tour of our plant and show you our showroom.

Merry Christmas from IMI

admin — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:07:17 +0000

Flipping has been replaced with nesting!

admin — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:15:47 +0000

Times have changed flipping has been replaced with nesting! Personally, I can relate to this change, “flipping” was the buzzword of recent years, and even if we didn’t flip a house, we were in awe of those who could. Now we have came full circle, and “nesting” is the buzzword. Some of us are looking at our nest and thinking “maybe this nest could use a little work!”

In our current economic and real estate market, many of us figure that since we can’t sell our home we might as well make it more comfortable during this “nesting” time. Now, we just have to start deciding where we would like to invest in our homes. One area of the home that will create a higher return on our investment is remodeling our bathrooms. It gives us an immediate return by making us feel better and a long-term value for when we do sell.

IMI has a full line of cultured marble products for your bathroom remodeling needs. We have everything from standard shower bases, custom shower bases, shower and tub surrounds to pretty much anything you can imagine for your bathroom remodeling needs!

A perfect Christmas present for the dog in your life!

admin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 01:03:04 +0000

IMI is known nationally for MasterCast Engineered Composite custom shower bases, custom vanity tops, ADA Shower bases, and Stand Alone Luxury Tubs. But from time to time, you just never know what we will get up our sleeve. Somewhere along the way, dog bowls that could withstand extreme climates for the outdoor dog, yet compliment your décor for the indoor dog, were developed!

If you are looking for a great gift idea for someone with animals this Christmas, this may be exactly what they need. Each bowl is made out of the same MasterCast Engineered Composites that our vanities and bases are. The dog bowl weighs about 20 lbs, so when the wind is howling they will stay steady! With big dogs they won’t flip over, saving the time and expense of cleaning up spilt food.

In the solid color line we have white, almond or biscuit. These retail for $50 plus freight.

We also can make the bowls in one of IMI’s Signature Spray Granite colors. These dog bowls will have the exquisite look of small particulate-quarried granite with the technological benefits and durability of MasterCast Engineered Composites. The Signature Collection offers a tough clear gel coat, followed by layers of sprayed cultured granite, then completed with high strength cultured marble matrix. The Signature Collection is $75 plus freight and you can choose your colors here!

To order one you can email Joel at: sales@intlmarbleindustries.com

We are located at 304 Bell Park Drive Woodstock, GA 30188.

Time to Replenish?

admin — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:21:05 +0000

I received this email today from Beth Armknecht Miller of Executive Velocity Inc. As I read it I realized that this is the time of the year to replenish. Wouldn’t you agree?

It is that time of the year once again, the clocks fall back as trees shed their leaves. I have always marveled at a deciduous plant’s ability to shed itself in the fall and then reemerge in the spring with new energy. The process allows plants to conserve water during the winter months and provides them with the opportunity to repair leaves damaged during the spring and summer by harsh weather and insects. And for flowering plants, losing their leaves provides them with an increased effectiveness in pollination the following year yielding more seeds to insure for survival and an increased population.
So if shedding leaves has so many benefits to plants and trees, what can we learn from Mother Nature? Why do so many professionals continue to take on more and more in their lives, both personally and professionally?

What can you shed from your long list of “to do’s”? How would it feel if you planned time to rest and repair? And as a leader, what would be the benefits of encouraging your high performers of shedding some of their “to dos” off their list?

The past eighteen months has been a challenging time for executives and business owners as well as line employees, all of whom have had to take on more versus less. How on earth, you wonder, can you take time to rest and replenish?

One of my favorite books is The Power of Full Engagement, and it outlines a process of energy management and renewal. If you haven’t had the opportunity to read this book yet, I would highly recommend doing so. This book is one that I read once a year to reinforce the importance of replenishing and managing my personal energy to becoming increasingly more effective.

What’s your plan to re-energize?

Happy Thanksgiving!

I’m looking forward to reading this book and becoming re-energized.

How Many Hats Are You Wearing Today?

admin — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:25:17 +0000

We’re seeing it every day. Builders, project managers, field supervisors being pulled in so many different directions they can hardly find time to complete a task. Due to the earlier downturn in the housing market, many companies were forced to cut staff. The remaining employees have taken on additional tasks and responsibilities.

While completely capable, these employees are nonetheless finding it difficult to do the job that 2 or 3 or even 4 people used to do. As an employer, IMI is facing the same challenges: we are expecting more of our team members and we are continuously searching for new tools to allow us to serve you better. In this instance the tool I can provide to my clients and associates – in particular the project managers, field supervisors and all the builders – is assistance in scheduling. We know scheduling your suppliers and subcontractors is a constant struggle; therefore IMI has dedicated staff members to rework your schedules as needed.

Sometimes it rains. Sometimes buyers or homeowners change their minds. Dates change. We know that in this business you always have to expect the unexpected. Contact IMI’s scheduling staff members whenever the unexpected occurs! To improve communications, we are installing a new, state of the art phone system that will eliminate the auto attendant, with DID (Direct Inward Dial) numbers to all your contacts. We can help work with you to schedule and re-schedule as your needs dictate, so your deadlines are never missed!

Be on the lookout for further information soon…

Beep! Beep! IMI’s Mobile Showroom Is On The Road…

admin — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:35:10 +0000

Starting Monday, October 26th IMI’s mobile showroom will be taking to the streets! IMI’s Senior Marketing Director, Joel Bump and his son will be manning the stocked 20 ft. truck and taking it up I-94 to the northeast. Aside from the great excuse for taking a fall foliage road trip, the mobile showroom will be visiting current dealers and those interested in becoming dealers. Scheduled stops include shops in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and more!

The mobile showroom contains almost all of IMI’s products: countertops, vanities, shower surrounds, including the 12×12 slate tile looking surround, shower bases with IMI’s ADA-Rated ramp and more! Why does everyone love to see the IMI mobile showroom coming? Because you can really get to know the products – touch them, hold them, feel them – and you get a feel for what makes IMI the reliable source it is. Our products are of the highest quality and we are proud to let you discover that fact for yourself.

Joel and the IMI mobile showroom have a little bit of free time in their road-tour schedule and we are still open to requests from builders, remodelers, hotels, spas, design firms, etc. for the mobile showroom to stop by. Think about scheduling a day and contact us by clicking here.

IMI Commited To Giving Back

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:24:13 +0000

International Marble Industries, Inc. believes in giving back to the community and helping those in need. IMI’s CEO, Dirk De Vuyst, is a member of the Roswell Georgia Rotary Club.

IMI donated funds to assist the Rotary Club in supporting and aiding the local victims of the September 12th floods in and around Atlanta.

To learn more about the Roswell Rotary and their community out-reach programs, click here.

One Of The Hottest Trend In Upscale Baths – Vessel Sinks By IMI

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:04:36 +0000

Beautiful, Durable, Affordable Vessel Sinks by IMI

As Seen On Twitter – IMI Teams Up With Traton Homes To Help HomeAid

admin — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:33:45 +0000

IntlMarble IMI Just Donated To HomeAid Atlanta Providing Transitional Housing For Homeless Families & Children In MetroAtlanta! www.homeaidatlanta.org

Please help IMI & Traton Homes by supporting HomeAid Atlanta. Visit the website above for more information on HomeAid; for more information on Traton Homes, click here.

IMI Is Now A Proud Member Of The Decorative Plumbing & Hardware Association

admin — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:38:49 +0000

The Decorative Plumbing & Hardware Association is a cutting-edge nonprofit organization whose mission is advance the business and professional development of independent dealers, manufacturers, representatives and others involved in the decorative plumbing and hardware industry. Products in this industry include bathroom accessories, plumbing, vanities, cabinet and door hardware, glass products, kitchen faucets and sinks, and the one IMI is a part of – tubs! IMI has countless tubs, custom, semi-custom, built-in, stand-alone, walk-in – completely unmatched in the industry!

DPHA has published the industry’s only comprehensive education program for showroom staff and produced numerous guidelines for consumers to make better and well-informed purchasing decisions. DPHA’s well-deserved reputation for quality and ability to create value for its members have enabled the organization to become the nation’s largest association dedicated exclusively to advance the interests of the independent decorative plumbing and hardware channel. Since its creation in 2002, DPHA has continually produced many marketing, educational and infrastructure products to improve our members’ businesses.

On the DPHA website is a “Your Project” section to help homeowners and builders alike understand the broad range of homebuilding and renovation options available when you work with DPHA manufacturers and showrooms. Each section includes a topic overview and planning considerations. DPHA showrooms feature the most up-to-date styles and functional innovations in decorative plumbing and hardware to enable you to select products and applications that meet your specific needs.

Whether you’re a designer, architect, contractor, installer or homeowner, you understand and appreciate the importance of quality, and you know—or will soon discover—the combination of beauty, functional elegance and technological superiority available in today’s upscale plumbing and hardware. Visit the Your Project section Here!

A final important reason IMI is proud to be a member of the DPHA is the organizations strong code of ethics, which for us, is an extremely important part of doing business.

DPHA Code of Conduct

We are committed to observing and promoting high standards of ethical conduct. DPHA members pledge to accept this code as a minimum guideline for ethical conduct.

DPHA members shall continually strive to:

Conduct their business affairs in good faith and with honesty, integrity, due diligence and competence.
Lead by example in representing the interests and ideals of the decorative plumbing and hardware industry.
Act in a manner displaying the highest degree of professional behavior bringing credit to the profession and the industry.
Compete vigorously and fairly.
Provide quality goods and service.

Every DPHA member will gain trust by treating others with integrity, respect and fairness. We will act responsibly in all our professional relationships, in a manner consistent with the high standards we set for ourselves and our organizations.

A Letter Of Thanks

admin — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 20:03:08 +0000

There is nothing that speaks better of a company than a client that goes out of their way to compliment them. See the kind letter of appreciation IMI received from New South Construction Company by clicking here.

IMI is so appreciative of the positive feedback because we hold ourselves to very high standards. We are always happy to hear that we have been able to accomplish our goals of excellent service and excellent products for our clients.

To read more about IMI’s service guarentee, read our service blog by clicking here.

As prices have gone up, don’t let service go down

admin — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:14:30 +0000

We’ve been hearing it on the news, from friends even from our own mouths as we walk the aisles at the grocery store and balk at what we see. Prices have gone up. Seems to be a paradoxical occurrence in a down economy, doesn’t it? Many companies in all industries are also eliminating freebies, extras, bonuses or bulk values. This is probably a more expected sign of the times. One thing we don’t think you should have to expect or deal with is any decrease in the service you receive!

As a business professional we know you are dedicated to giving your clients the best customer service possible, and you expect the same from the vendors who serve you. You don’t make excuses, and neither do we. The staff of International Marble Industries Inc. (IMI) has always been dedicated to excellent customer service, quick turnaround times and affordable quality products.

IMI guarantees a 48 hour response time, and a typical five day lead time on products. How often have you heard the word “guarantee” lately? IMI also promises to get your quotes to you accurately and on-time. What’s on-time? How about within 24 hours of receiving the information? That’s fast!

Would your clients like:

To make color selections with an IMI professional in a dedicated design center?
To have professional installers in their home, not just contracted laborers?
To have products that are warrantied by not only your company, but by the manufacturer as well?

Would you like:

To work with a company who was the first in the industry to offer the fastest lead time?
To work with a company that is a member of the ACMA, ICPA, NARI, GAHB & NAHB?
To work with a company that will do the measure AND the install for you?
To work with a company that actually loves to speak with your clients and answer their questions?
To work with a company that offers Certified Aging-In-Place Professionals to consult with you or your clients?

IMI is a company you and your clients can trust. We’re not letting economic downturns or pricing upturns change our dedication to excellence. Simply put, we’re offering a great product brought to you by great people. It’s a basic philosophy that has served us well over the years. Come back to the basics. Come to IMI.

Why Choose an Engineered Composite Over Tile?

admin — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:46:56 +0000

Whether you’re talking about a bathroom or a kitchen, a floor or a countertop, a shower or a tub; tile has traditionally been a consumer favorite. Tile touts itself as easy to clean, durable, with low maintenance and in a variety of colors and sizes. But before we all start mixing up the grout, why not consider some alternatives. It seems like many clients, remodelers and builders look to tile simply because “that’s what they’ve always used.” This, of course, is a saying that never leads to improvement or discovery.

Let an engineered composite onto the playing field and you just might find that the tile you’ve always used is suddenly not the clear winner. MasterCast Engineered Composites from International Marble Industries, Inc. (IMI) are recognized as “Beautiful, Durable, Versatile, (and) Affordable.” Four values that are obviously in competition with everything we thought we knew about tile. MasterCast Engineered Composites encompasses cultured marble, cultured granite, solid surface polymers, and engineered quartz Bathroom & Kitchen products.

The beauty of a MasterCast engineered composites product is immediately obvious. Used in high-end hotels around the world and first-time family homes alike this product boasts beauty that cannot be found anywhere else. From color to shape, the MasterCast Engineered Composite fabricators like IMI produce custom Bathroom Vanity Tops, Kitchen Countertops, Tubs, Shower Bases, and Shower/Tub Surrounds especially for remodelers, builders, dealers and re-sellers.

Have you ever seen a tile curve? Have you ever seen a tile shower with no visible seams, no grout lines? Imagine the beauty of a product that could do both! Now imagine that same product needing no sealing, no special cleaners, which resists stains and mold and is antibacterial. If it sounds too good to be true then you are starting to learn why engineered composites are quickly becoming a top choice in today’s economy.

Homeowners want a product that will be durable, easy to care for and add value to their home. An engineered composite can suit all of those needs, which has the end result of making the builders and remodelers who use them very happy.

A final reason these users, owners and makers of engineered composites stay so happy is the longevity of the product. No warranty visits when the tile grout starts cracking or the tile shower base starts leaking. No spreading mold or mildew which can cause major health problems. Engineered composites are waterproof and a non-porous surface that deliver a warmer, softer feel to the touch than cold tile.

If you are a builder, remodeler, kitchen and bath dealer or re-seller and you know your clients would like this product contact IMI today. IMI professionals would be happy to provide you with an on-line presentation of the products. On IMI’s website you can find your Contractor Kit as well as information for Kitchen and Bath Dealers. Please visit IMI on the web at: http://www.intlmarbleindustries.com/

Remodeling Professionals: Are Your Clients “Serial Remodelers”?

admin — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:11:32 +0000

If they’re not you may just want them to be, because if it sounds like a bad thing – it’s not. Serial remodels, or phased remodeling projects, can go over several months and even years. For example, homeowners might opt to start slow with a remodel to a powder room or closet and then tackle a larger project, such as the kitchen, master bath or home addition.

According the the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, residential remodels are no longer those once-in-a-lifetime projects that keep homeowners dreaming years on end before they ever pick up a hammer. Instead, many homeowners opt to do a series of remodels as their schedules, budgets and lifestyles evolve over time!

Qualified Remodeler’s business website says that these phased remodeling projects are part of a larger trend in American consciousness, which Trendwatching calls “Foreverism.” It speaks to people’s desire to continue conversations, relationships and projects over time. Technology is driving people’s ability to find, follow, interact and collaborate forever with anyone and anything, and home improvement is just one of the areas benefiting from the trend.

According to Qualified Remodeler, phasing a remodeling project has a number of benefits, besides cultivating contractor/client relationships. For homeowners who can’t fund the entire project upfront, breaking elements of a major home remodel into stages can help extend costs over time. Embarking on a series of smaller projects also keeps homeowners less stressed.

IMI professionals would be happy to help you propose and prepare a phased remodeling project involving any of our products. It just may be a feasible way to allow your clients to realize their dream…in phases.

A Practical Company’s Tribute To Washroom Excess

admin — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 19:56:55 +0000

From HowStuffWorks: http://home.howstuffworks.com/most-expensive-toilet-in-world.htm

They say that the road to the palace of wisdom is paved with excess. The folks at Hang Fung Gold Technology Group in Hong Kong must be very wise indeed. The company’s Hong Kong showroom features the “Hall of Gold,” which contains several opulent handcrafted treasures. But the tourist favorite is “The World’s Most Expensive Gold and Jewelry Sparkling Environmental Friendly Washroom” [source: Hang Fung]. Perhaps the most admired item in the gold bathroom is the 24-carat solid gold toilet.

The company’s owners stipulated that if the price of gold reaches $1,000 per ounce, one ton (32,000 ounces) of the tourist attraction will be melted into bullion and sold [source: AFP]. The company would gross a cool $32 million, and the owners would net about $17.6 million.

The one-of-a-kind posh potty will be spared and remain in Hang Fung’s showroom — it’s not for sale. But if you’re itching to add some bling to your bathroom, there are some other fixtures on the market that might appeal to your expensive taste.

The Neorest 600 certainly falls into this category. The Neorest takes the cake as the most expensive commode available for purchase in the home. Produced by bathroom fixture manufacturer Toto, the Neorest 600 is a tankless, one-piece toilet. It may not be gold, but you could call it green: It’s a low-flow toilet, conserving water by sending only 1.6 gallons down the drain per flush. But you’ll be too busy sitting in awe of the Neorest to yearn for the water-frivolous days of the full-flow toilet. It’s also a bathroom dynamo, doing all of the work your old toilet used to make you do.

When the Neorest senses your approach, the toilet lifts its lid, inviting you to have a seat. Once you do your thing, a gentle blast of warm water cleans your bottom. This is followed by the toilet’s air-dry function. And after you get up, the toilet flushes the ionized, self-cleaning bowl and deodorizes the air [source: Toto]. With all of these features, maybe the $5,800 retail price for the Neorest 600 isn’t so much, relatively speaking [source: Forbes]. Plus, you can find them for sale as low as $3,159 [source: Buy Plumbing]. Of course, you can get a regular residential toilet in the U.S. for around $150, but these certainly don’t come with the bells and whistles the Neorest offers.

What Is Aging-In-Place?

admin — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:25:13 +0000

The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) is a designation created, taght and awarded by the National Associate of HomeBuilders (NAHB.) The course teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place.

The CAPS program has been recognized and recommended by AARP, who said: “A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) can assist you with planning and making changes to your home that can help you continue to live there. CAPS professionals have the answers to many of your housing questions and problems. They have been taught the strategies and techniques for designing and building attractive, barrier-free living environments.”

An CAPS professional can also apply the ideas of universal design. Universal Design is a relatively new paradigm that emerged from “barrier-free” or “accessible design.” It is a design focus that describes designing and building a home to accommodate its owner’s physical needs for today and into the future. However, universal design and new home construction are not mutually exclusive terms. Some of the building industry’s strongest universal design advocates say they have been inspired either through their own personal experience coping with life-altering disabilities or by clients with special needs; and many of these clients had a strong desire to stay in their current family home!

Seeing the increasing need for this type of planning IMI has CAPS certified staff members that can help any builder or remodeler looking to apply universal design concepts to their clients’ homes. IMI’s barrier-free products include an Easy Access™ Shower Base, an Easy Access Ramp and a walk-in tub!

Top Ten Bathroom Design Mistakes

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 20:57:02 +0000

(By Jessica Brown For How Stuff Works/howstuffworks.com)

Even though outhouses are more or less an icon of the past, there are a few features that we can learn from their design. They were functional, could be created on a small budget and had good ventilation through the cracks in the wood. They were also inconvenient, poorly lit and frankly, not very luxurious.

Since the time of outhouses, bathrooms have moved inside and multiplied. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the number of homes with multiple bathrooms has increased more than 30 percent since 1973 [source: HUD].

Bathrooms are important to many people in the United States, which is why mistakes in their designs can be frustrating and costly. Bathroom designs vary, and just like with an outhouse, there are advantages and disadvantages to all the designs. In this article, we will discuss 10 common mistakes in bathroom design from layout decisions to design choices and even budgeting.

10. Small Budget for a Big Project

For those of us with limited funds, budgeting correctly can be a large part of actually being able to finish the job. Yet, it can be hard to make concessions when you’re dealing with a bathroom creation you’ve dreamed about for years.

Luckily, there are some ways to take a bit of the guesswork out of budgeting for your bathroom project. Due to the diverse nature of bathroom situations, it’s hard to give firm figures for a remodel. Yet, no matter what you have budgeted, it’s always a good idea to plan for unforeseen expenses. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry recommends saving 10 to 20 percent of your budget to allow for items added to the scope of the work [source: National Association of The Remodeling Industry]. So, only plan on using a portion of your budget upfront, then you have a cushion for those unexpected costs.

To decide how to spend your money, start by making a list of your priorities. Then make a list of must-haves based on the function of the bathroom. A large bathtub with super-powerful jets might be one person’s top priority, while double sinks might rank first for another.

After you’ve narrowed down your must-haves, a trip to your local home-improvement store or a chat with your designer is a good idea. This way you can start to put some tentative prices on some of those items on your list. For most products, you can choose from a range of price points. Take a bathtub; you could go with the deep-soaking version with jets, or you could opt for a more stream-lined model and save a few dollars.

9. Improper Installation

Everyone has heard at least one horror story about projects that have gone very wrong. From leaks to structural integrity, improper installation can end up costing you a great deal of money and trouble to correct the problem.

Besides the repairs involved with poor installation, there can also be safety issues. Cutting through framing to repair a problem can leave structurally weak spots that can damage the room and possibly hurt someone.

Another safety issue to think about is electrical installation. A television set mounted above the tub may allow you to multi-task, but it can also be a safety hazard if the television should ever fall. And improper outlets and light switches could be a fire hazard.

Finally, any glass that’s near a tub or shower should be tempered. Should you take a tumble in the tub and break the glass, tempered glass will crack like a windshield instead of creating the jagged shards of regular glass.

8. Uncomfortable Spacing

Some bathrooms may be just plain small, but sometimes the configuration and spacing in the room are actually making it seem less functional. Building codes do require a certain amount of space in front of and around toilets, tubs and shower entries along with many other space requirements throughout the room. While you have to conform to minimum requirements, adding more space to certain areas of your bathroom might be required by angles in the room or personal preference.

Evaluating exactly what you must have in the bathroom will allow you to utilize your space effectively. If you don’t take baths, forget the tub and expand the shower area. If you don’t need a place for setting curling irons or shaving cream, you can opt for a pedestal sink instead of a large sink with a countertop.

You also want to think about how wide your doors will open and leave space for them to swing unobstructed. To comfortably open doors or draws on cabinets, you’ll need about two feet (almost 61 centimeters) of clear space in front of them

7. Lack of Storage

From shampoo bottles to towels and cleaning products, bathrooms require a lot of equipment. Yet some bathrooms only boast a small medicine cabinet and an approximately 2-foot by 2-foot (approximately 607 mm by 607 mm) closet. That might work for a bachelor, but try adding stuff from two or three people, and you have a storage nightmare. While most people’s storage issues might not be that extreme, more storage space is always a plus for a bathroom.

Some storage issues stem from limited space, but others are hindered by square footage. For those with limited floor space, move to the walls with hanging cabinets or wall shelves [source: Roney]. A mirrored medicine cabinet doubles as storage for small items. Several manufacturers make wall-mounted toothbrush holders, soap holders and soap dispensers, freeing up counter space for other items [source: Harrison and Lynch].

When making a storage plan, keep in mind the difference between hidden and exposed storage. For those who don’t want their towels and cosmetic bottles on display, planning for more hidden storage might be the correct use of space. Those with beautiful perfume bottles or monogrammed towels might want to utilize them as elements to enhance the bathroom’s overall look by displaying them on exposed shelves or in glass-front cabinets.

6. Thinking Short Term

Not planning for the future can leave homeowners with a less-than-effective bathroom. Designing for longevity also means versatility. It can be creating a child’s bathroom that can grow with the child or planning for your needs as you age.

Some parents want their kids’ bathrooms to be a children’s oasis with kid-sized everything and playful fixtures. But having a kid’s bathroom doesn’t have to mean remodeling when they hit puberty. Sarah Barnard, owner and interior designer for Sarah Barnard Design, recommends keeping surface materials simple and adding personality with removable items such as bath mats and shower curtains. This philosophy can also work for those who like to change colors or themes often, but need to stay on a budget.

Planning ahead can also make for a smooth and more aesthetic transition for those who are planning on aging-in-place or who just want the option for an accessible bathroom. This forethought can mean a great deal during a transition period.

Some ideas for planning ahead include reinforcing walls to the standards needed for grab bar installation. By creating an open floor plan with, among other space requirements, at least 32-inch (approximately 813 mm) doorways and 30 inches by 48 inches (approximately 762 mm by 1,219mm) of clear space around the sink, the bathroom becomes more accessible for a wheelchair user [source: Fair Housing Accessibility First]. Adequate lighting and the option of a nightlight can help to prevent falls for both young and old.

5. Going Too Trendy

While peach tile with teal accents may have been trendy about 60 years ago, it’s certainly not going to appeal to a broad spectrum of the general public now. Staying away from very trendy materials and design elements can give a bathroom a much longer life. While trends do differ by region, there are some items you might want to think twice about putting into your bathroom regardless of where you live. This includes ultra personalized items such as decorative motif tiles with images [source: Barnard]. While you might think that a tugboat tile for your son’s bathroom would be charming, your son may not agree with you in 10 years.

Choose items that have stood the test of time. Go with neutral colors. When choosing the color palette and materials for your room, think about the size of the room. A bold color might look great as a paint sample, but painting the entire room that color could be overwhelming [source: House Beautiful]. The same goes for flooring and tile.

Trendy choices may go out of style quickly, but if you don’t use moisture-resistant materials, you may be forced to replace them before they go out of fashion. Let’s explore some materials to avoid using in your bathroom.

4. Choosing the Wrong Materials

One of the biggest enemies to materials used in the bathroom is humidity. Choosing products that can stand up to the rigors of a wet and steamy environment is a major key in safeguarding your investment.

While to some it may be common sense, carpet is not a good option for the bathroom. It can soak up moisture and hold it. You may also want to think twice before you use wallpaper. Although, wallpaper might be a good choice for a half-bath, because it won’t have to put up with the constant steam from the shower [source: Harrison and Lynch].

As far as materials that do work well in a bathroom, nonporous surfaces are at the top of the list [source: Barnard]. Ceramic and porcelain tile work wonderfully for a bathroom. But if you’re going with semi-porous surfaces such as natural stone or hardwood, make sure to have them sealed properly. A great wood choice for the bathroom is teak because it is naturally water-resistant [source: Harrison and Lynch].

3. Ignoring the Environment

From saving the environment to reducing costs, environmentally responsible options abound when it comes to bathrooms. Water conservation is a big part of being Earth-friendly in the bathroom. Some communities are even requiring that home sellers retro-fit their homes with low-water use fixtures before they can change ownership [source: City of Arroyo Grande, California and Grillo]. Changing these fixtures ahead of time lets the homeowner reap some of the benefits instead of making the home more efficient only for the buyer’s use.

Tankless water heaters are another great option for the bathroom [source: Coleman]. While a regular water heater will consume energy throughout the day to keep the water in its tank hot, a gas tankless water heater only heats water as needed. An ENERGY STAR qualified whole-house gas tankless water heater can cut water heating expenses by 30 percent [source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR].

For both an eco-friendly and healthier bathroom, choose materials that have no or low VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These compounds are emitted as gasses from certain solids and liquids and some of these compounds can have adverse health effects [source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Indoor Air Quality]. Low or no VOC paint is one way to reduce these compounds in your bathroom. Also, as mentioned earlier, if using semi-porous materials such as natural stone or hardwood, they need to be sealed [source: Barnard]. Consider using nontoxic sealers.

2. Inadequate Lighting

When thinking about bathroom design, most people might not have lighting as a top priority, but it can greatly affect the functionality of the space. When choosing lighting for a bathroom, a homeowner can go wrong in two general ways: incorrect positioning or poor choice of lighting.

For overall bathroom lighting, overhead recessed can lights are a good option [source: Coleman]. When thinking about the rest of the room, lighting should reflect how a room will be used. If you plan on using the vanity to put on makeup or shave, lighting over the vanity is critical.

It’s also important to not forget lighting in or near the tub and shower. Not including enough light in a shower can be a safety hazard. Choose these lights carefully; they must fit with building codes and should be rated for wet locations [source: Coleman].

Regardless of where you position the lights, you should also think about the type of light you need. When choosing light bulbs, think about going with halogens, which offer a full spectrum of light that closely mimics sunlight [source: Coleman]. Another way to adjust light levels is to put lights on different switches. This allows you the freedom to turn on only the light in the toilet area instead of lighting the entire space. A dimmer on one of the lights offers the option of a nightlight for late-night trips to the bathroom.

1. Improper Ventilation

While ventilation might not be the most glamorous area of a bathroom project, it can become a real problem if not given the attention it deserves. Moisture and steam need a way to get out of the bathroom, or they’ll collect, which can cause biological pollutants, such as mold, to grow [source: EPA].

To increase air flow, an operable window is always a good choice. It also has an added benefit of adding light into the room. For those bathrooms in an area of a home that can not accommodate a window, mechanical ventilation must be added to help regulate the room’s humidity levels. Knowing the total cubic footage of the room, refer to state and local building code requirements for information on the size of windows needed for proper ventilation and the correct mechanical ventilation device.

Ventilation fans can be mounted on the wall or ceiling. New models take into account noise and also ease of use with automatic shut-off options. Other ventilation fans offer the ability to place many vents throughout the bathroom, such as over the sink, tub and shower, pulling all of that air through one central bath exhaust fan [source: Contant].

Whether it’s improper ventilation or incorrect budgeting, mistakes in bathroom design can cost homeowners time and money, while adding worries. Being educated on the areas to watch can hopefully prevent you from making these common blunders during your next project.

How Stuff Works: Tips For Cleaning Your Countertops

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 20:23:42 +0000

COUNTERTOP CLEANING TIPS

Cultured Marble

Cultured marble is an acrylic material that resembles real marble, but is easier to care for because it is less porous and does not have to be sealed. Avoid abrasive cleaners and steel-wool soap pads; they will scratch the surface.

Mild abrasive cleansers should be applied directly to the wet surface. Rinse well and buff with a soft cloth. Note that hot pots will leave permanent burn marks on cultured marble.

Marble

Marble countertops are porous and susceptible to stains, but they are not affected by heat.

Seal marble with a special stone sealer to reduce its porosity, and wipe up wine, fruit juice, and other acidic food spills immediately to prevent permanent surface etching. Abrasive and caustic cleaners will mar the surface of marble, and oil polish and soft waxes may discolor it.

While many appropriate commercial cleaners are available, borax rubbed into the surface with a moistened cloth will also clean marble. Rinse with warm water, and buff with a soft cloth.

Plastic Laminate

Most kitchens have plastic laminate countertops. They’re practically seamless, giving cooks a smooth, waterproof work surface that is easy to clean. Unfortunately, plastic laminate burns, scratches, and stains fairly easily, so you’ll have to be considerate of your countertops to keep them looking good.

Regular applications of appliance wax or light furniture wax will help laminate surfaces resist stains and scratching.
Never use abrasive cleansers or steel wool on laminate countertops.
For general cleaning, a two-sided scrubbing pad with fiber on one side and a sponge on the other works particularly well. Moistened slightly with water, the fiber side is just abrasive enough to loosen greasy smears and other soil.

Wood

Always use a cutting board on a wood countertop. Wipe up stains, and keep your wood countertops as dry as you possibly can. Periodically, rub oil into wood countertops to protect them from moisture. Use boiled linseed oil or salad oil.

Remove stains with a solution of 1/4 cup chlorine bleach in 1 quart warm water. Rinse, dry, and coat with oil.
To get rid of odors that are absorbed by wood countertops, rub the surface with a slice of lemon.
To clean wood countertops, mix 1/2 cup baking soda in 1 quart warm water. Rub the paste into the wood using a synthetic scouring pad. Rinse well, and blot up excess moisture. When dry, restore the finish by using boiled linseed oil or salad oil rubbed in with a fine steel-wool pad. Treat the countertop with two coats of oil, applied 24 hours apart, blotting up the excess after each application.

We Must Hang Together…

admin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:22:44 +0000

…or we’ll surely hang separately, right?

Such seems to be the world right now. It’s a dog eat dog world. In the building business we’re consistently seeing our friends and colleagues lose jobs, lose businesses even lose homes. It’s not pretty. We’re looking for ways to stretch our dollar, find the niche in the market and keep ourselves going at least one more day.

As a business that sells to businesses – we want to see everyone succeed! So why not get together? Hang together? We’re really trying to think outside the box and would love to hear from other businesses that are doing the same.

What have unusual method have you tried in this down economy to get or keep your clients?

We’d like to talk about some of the BEST ideas in our upcoming IMI Newsletter. We’d like to tout your business and give you some free PR on all our social media sites. So what do you say? What have you got to lose? We simply hope you might find a reason to tout all the neat stuff IMI is doing too.

Leave your comments here, or email us by clicking here!

IMI Gives Back

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:00:58 +0000

You may have noticed a new addition to the IMI website, “IMI Gives Back.” International Marble Industries, Inc. believes in giving back to the community and helping those in need. Listed on the site are some of the charities where we have donated product, time, money, and other resources that will make a positive difference in the lives of others. I want to invite you to find out about these and other organizations where your contributions will impact positively on our people and environment.

http://www.intlmarbleindustries.com/imi-gives-back/

“Never respect men merely for their riches, but rather for their philanthropy; we do not value the sun for its height, but for its use.” – G. Bailey

Mastercast Engineered Composites in the low country

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:15:49 +0000

Visited USC today with our 17 year old son in search of the perfect college to allow him to pursue his dream career in international business. No cultured marble for this kid. How about Mastercast Engineered Composites? Well, that may stand a chance with the young man…

We decided to make a detour via Charleston to visit our friend Ricky Webb in Summerville, SC. Had not seen Ricky in about a year and we needed to catch up on the status of our business. Turns out that the Single Family construction business in that area had been hit about 8 months earlier than in Atlanta and that there were signs of rebound.

Ricky proudly showed us his new showroom setup showing the new generation of MasterCast Engineered Composites, good looking products that looked like the real McCoy. Nicely installed. Wipe off the dust, and he is in business!

We shared a couple of view points on what else to do to get through this economy and took off for Charleston. Our hotel sported a set of cultured marble surrounds in the good old “white with country grey color”. Good looking swirl. But why do these panels keep being too low for for out 6′7″ high school senior? The days that a 5ft surround was tall enough at 60″ above the tub are over. This new generation need taller panels!

I am sure glad he ducked for that low hanging sprinkler head in the hall way!