Kansas City Brick & Masonry is the craft of shaping rough pieces of rock into accurate geometrical shapes, at times simple, but some of considerable complexity, and then arranging the resulting stones, often together with mortar, to form structures. Quarrymen split veins, or sheets of rock, and extract the resulting blocks of stone from the ground. Sawyers cut these rough blocks into cuboids, to required size with diamond-tipped saws. The resulting block if ordered for a specific component is known as sawn six sides (SSS). Banker masons are workshop based, and specialize in working the stones into the shapes required by a building's design, this set out on templets and a bed mould. They can produce anything from stones with simple chamfers to tracery windows, detailed mouldings and the more classical architectural building masonry. When working a stone from a sawn block, the mason ensures that the stone is bedded in the right way, so the finished work sits in the building in the same orientation as it was formed on the ground. Occasionally though some stones need to be orientated correctly for the application; this includes voussoirs, jambs, coping sand cornice. The basic tools, methods and skills of the banker mason have existed as a trade for thousands of years. Carvers cross the line from craft to art, and use their artistic ability to carve stone into foliage, figures, animals or abstract designs. Fixer masons specialize in the fixing of stones onto buildings, using lifting tackle, and traditional lime mortars and grouts. Sometimes modern cements, mastics and epoxy resins are used, usually on specialist applications such as stone cladding. Metal fixings, from simple dowels and cramps to specialised single application fixings, are also used. The precise tolerances necessary make this a highly skilled job. Memorial masons or monumental masons carve gravestones and inscriptions. The modern stonemason undergoes comprehensive training, both in the classroom and in the working environment. Hands-on skill is complemented by intimate knowledge of each stone type, its application and best uses, and how to work and fix each stone in place. The mason may be skilled and competent to carry out one or all of the various branches of stonemasonry. In some areas the trend is towards specialization, in other areas towards adaptability.

From realistic browns and weathered grays to exotic woods, Inteplast Building Products Variegated Deck Collection offers unparalleled color streaking in subtle non-skid wood grain surfaces which mirrors the look of real wood without the maintenance hassles. There’s no annual staining, sealing, or painting required. Inteplast Building Products Decks are engineered to be durable, lightweight, low-maintenance, and moisture resistant, and there are no special tools required to work with Inteplast Building Products. Yet, their working characteristics are the same as traditional lumber.

Inspiration for a timeless home design remodel in New York

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Doug Thompson
Kitchen - contemporary galley dark wood floor kitchen idea in Orlando with a double-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, gray backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Custom designed fire place mantel created in solid oak. Special tools used to create a distressed/rustic look. Solid corbels created with heavy distress also

Custom designed fire place mantel created in solid oak. Special tools used to create a distressed/rustic look. Solid corbels created with heavy distress also

This modern office has a aplique pattern called Bloom from the Plic Collection. There are many colors and styles available. Easy to install, no need to special tools or grout.

Our DIY Modular Straight Stair Kit can easily be installed in a weekend by two homeowners. Each piece bolts together with no special tools needed.
Mid-sized mountain style wooden floating wood railing staircase photo in Philadelphia with metal risers

Custom designed fire place mantel created in solid oak. Special tools used to create a distressed/rustic look. Solid corbels created with heavy distress also

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Acid stained concrete floors achieved with Yellowstone color hardener followed by Amber Acid Stains; small saw cut joints made with special tooling.
Example of a trendy living room design in San Francisco

With a double panel of multi-colored Indian Rajah slate, the Nojoqui Falls Double fountain creates a display that is irresistible to the eye and combines a sound that is soothing to the ear. Capturing the raw beauty of its namesake, the beautiful 164 foot Nojoqui Falls near Solvang, California, our fountain combines natural elements with modern technology to bring nature's majesty to your living room. Nearly five feet tall and over four feet wide, this wall mounted fountain makes its presence felt in your home or office. These water fountains feature your choice of four contemporary finishes framing double panels of Rajah slate layered onto lightweight composite material. The fountain is made with a splash-free design and features LED lighting to bring even more attention to the water falling past the slate. An adjustable flow valve allows you to adjust the rate of the falling water based on your mood, from a tranquil, calming curtain to a torrential cascade. Even with these features, installation is still a breeze, with no special tools. For truly unique and functional decorations, our indoor water fountains are beyond compare. This water fountain can be customized with your logo. NSI Slate™ – Water fountains made with our NSI™ Slate use our patent pending technology which sheers a layer of genuine Indian Raja Slate and fuses it to composite material with the same chipped edge technique as slab slate. They are indistinguishable from a thick slab of slate. All the beauty is retained and the weight is reduced by over 90% making it easier to hang a wall fountain. *Please note that these units are handmade and measurements may vary slightly. Texture and color of the copper and slate may also vary slightly with each fountain.

Sometimes bigger is better, especially when it comes to water fountains. The 8' Dark Copper Gardenfall with Bronze Mirror provides you with the kind of grand, majestic waterfall you want right in your own home, office or garden. This impressive rear mount fountain has a large 8 foot aluminum frame with a dark copper powdercoat finish surrounding a beautiful tempered bronze mirror. Suitable for outdoor or indoor use, these water fountains can be installed in less than 30 minutes with no special tools and can even be customized with your choice of logo. Water fountains are not only pleasing to our eyes, they are soothing to the mind and soul as well. The sound of the water rushing past the polished river rocks can make you forget your troubles as you stare at the ripples reflected in the bronze mirror, perhaps highlighted by the halogen accent light. The air will be a little cleaner and less dry around this fountain, helping you and your guests to breathe easier. The quiet operation of the submersible pump means that you won't have to worry about noise pollution. What other decorative piece could add so much to your life? This water feature can be customized with your logo.

A certified chimney inspection in Illinois is one of the key ‘to-do’s’ for the holidays. The last thing you need are a bunch of complaints because it’s too cold. There’s a cold draft coming from the fireplace. Or the fire is nice and warm, but the kids playing are starting to cough because there’s a backup of smoke coming into the home. Now you have to open the windows and everyone is cold again. There are enough stresses the host must deal with, do we need to add another one? What is a Certified Chimney Inspection? According to the CSIA, a certified chimney inspection is an evaluation of the chimney or venting system to assess its condition and determine if it’s fit for use. Superior Chimney is certified by the CSIA to perform chimney inspections and chimney sweeps as well. What this means for you is that our technicians are trained to adhere to the NFPA 211 standard which states that the chimney and venting systems are to be inspected each year regardless if it’s a woodburning gas or unused fireplace and chimney. Chimney Inspection Levels A Level 1 inspection is the minimum required. How do you know this one is for you? A certified chimney inspection is when you have your chimney swept and inspected each year. Nothing has changed, you use it (or don’t use it) any differently than in the past. A Level 2 inspection is when a change has been made to your system. This can include a change in the type of fuel being used such as changing over from gas to woodburning or from not using the fireplace to using it even if it is only once per year. Another change can also be the change to the shape of the flue or you had a new flue lining installed which is different that what you had prior. A Level 2 is also necessary if you sold your home or if there’s been a tornado, bad storms or those (once in a few years) earthquakes. Level 3 inspection is for more serious hazards and issues. The normal technician tools won’t do and they need special tools in order to inspect closed out portions that can’t be viewed easily. Reason for a Yearly Inspection… One of the main reason your chimney and fireplace needs an inspection…regardless if you use the fireplace or not…is the winter freeze thaw cycles. This is when the air temperature drops to 32 degrees or below to freeze the rain and/or snow and then goes right back up in temperature for the rain and/or snow to thaw. As we have all experienced, winter and early spring are the perfect times of year to experience the freeze thaw cycle. Finally… Now that you know the stress your chimney and fireplace goes through each year, be sure to get it swept and inspected by a certified chimney technician from Superior Chimney. This will keep the holiday complaints down to a minimum. Contact us today at 877-CHIM-FIX (877-244-6349)

.1. Surface Protection: Begin by carefully protecting all sensitive areas surrounding the marble surfaces to prevent any unintended damage during the restoration process. This may involve covering adjacent surfaces, walls, or fixtures. 2. Grinding to Remove Stains & Scratches: Employ precision grinding techniques to address stains and scratches on the marble surface. This step involves the use of specialized tools and abrasives to level the surface and eliminate imperfections. 3. Polishing to a High Sheen: Follow the grinding phase with a meticulous polishing process. Utilize progressively finer polishing compounds and pads to enhance the marble's natural shine, achieving a high-gloss finish. This step not only minimizes scratches but also brings out the inherent beauty of the stone. 4. Sealing with 2 Coats of Sealer: Seal the restored marble surfaces with two coats of high-quality sealer. The sealer creates a protective barrier, guarding against future stains and damage. Ensure even and thorough coverage to maximize the effectiveness of the sealer. This straightforward process outlines key steps to rejuvenate marble surfaces, addressing both aesthetic and protective aspects. It's a systematic approach that combines precision in addressing imperfections with a focus on enhancing the overall appearance of the marble.

Artaic worked closely with underwater photographer and digital imaging specialist Jim Hellemn to produce a stunning pool-bottom mosaic for a luxurious vacation home in the Cayman Islands. Inspired by the natural coral reef situated right beside the property, the 60-foot long mosaic, which is made up of thousands of squared 3/8” vitreous glass tiles, offers the homeowners a permanent art installation that immortalizes the underwater ecosystem living right in their backyard. Hellemn, whose work has appeared in National Geographic and at the American Museum of Natural History, took a “stitched” high-resolution photograph of the coral reef, which was then digitally translated into a mosaic using Artaic’s proprietary Tylist™ software. “Capturing the essence of coral reefs and marine environments is at the core of my imaging pursuits. Coral reefs are among the most colorful places on the planet, but are nearly impossible to visualize on a large scale without the use of some very special tools,” says Hellemn. Coral reefs, although now one of the most widely endangered ecosystems in the world, still remain some of the most colorful and beautiful wildlife habitats on Earth. The combination of Hellemn’s photography and the precision of Artaic’s mosaic tile arrangement gives the residence’s owners a realistic and everlasting interpretation of the vibrant reef found beside them to enjoy for years to come.

Jessica Delaney
Example of a classic light wood floor living room design in Boston with white walls, a standard fireplace and a wall-mounted tv