Classic Calacatta Gold and rich black Nero marble take a new shape in Pinnacle, a distinctly modern dimensional pattern of deep, sharp triangular flutes carved into clean parallel channels.

In this edition, we sat down with Dirk Sullivan, owner of Hawthorne Tile in Portland, OR. Sullivan is currently the only NTCA Five Star Contractor in the Northwest. He serves on NTCA’s Board of Directors, and is also part of NTCA’s membership and training and education committees.

Crystalline silica has always been an issue in the tile world, as well as the natural stone industry. Very small dust particles are produced. These tiny particles, known as respirable particles, can travel deep into workers’ lungs over time and cause various health issues.

The ceramic tile industry has grown substantially in recent years and a big percentage of the growth is seen on exterior installations. This can be for multiple reasons, including a cleaner, more contemporary look, better mortars and grouts, and large-format and gauged porcelain tiles.

Surface preparation includes many products and methods like self-leveling underlayments, mortar beds, waterproofing/crack isolation membranes, patching and repair products, moisture mitigation membranes, crack repair, diamond grinding, shot blasting and scarification, to name a few.

For this edition, we sat down with Jeremy Waldorf, owner of Legacy Floors L.L.C. in Howell, MI, who assumed the role of regional business manager at HPS Schönox in May of this year.

Summer is in full effect. Warmer weather is bringing smiles to everyone's faces, much-needed vacations are finally being taken, and spontaneous late nights are becoming the new normal. Aside from endless ice cream and poolside memories, what is there not to love about this time of year?

Excel Engineering is a U.S.-based company providing services for architecture and engineering. With its highly qualified staff capable of fulfilling the requirements of the most diverse customers, Excel Engineering works mainly in Northern America and Canada.