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TECHNICAL INFORMATION THE ESTIMATING PROCESS Our estimation crew counts with the necessary experience and training to provide accurate quotes either from physical measures at the job sites, or data provided by blueprints, CAD files, or other methods. The estimating process begins with reviewing various preliminary drawings and specifications; the estimator visits the site of the proposed project and gathers information of the scope of the work, the access to the site, and the availability of electricity, water, and other services, as well as on the surface conditions. The information developed during the site visit usually is recorded in a signed report that is included in the final project estimate. During the takeoff process, the estimator prepares a cost summary spreadsheet for the entire project, including the costs of labor, materials, subcontracts, taxes, and any other costs that may affect the project. He or she fills out the necessary standard forms; fill in dimensions, number of units, and other relevant information. The chief estimator then prepares the bid proposal for submission to the owner. Also during the takeoff process, the chief estimator must make decisions concerning equipment needs, the sequence of operations, the size of the crew required, physical constraints at the site, and allowances for wasted materials. Once the proposal is being approved, the estimator proceeds to take the necessary templates, confirm measurements, and submit the final specifications in order to prepare the contract to proceed with the installation and/or fabrication. INSTALLATION PROCESS
We begin the installation process with the inspection of the surface to be covered and, if necessary, we correct any imperfection in order to start with a clean smooth foundation. The chief installer along with the project coordinator, select the appropriate underlayment system depending on the requirements and the specific needs of the costumer, in order to prevent future cracking of the material, or simply to control and isolate the sound. (See Technical Specifications for details). For all flooring installation is necessary to pass levels with special devices that guarantee the accuracy in order to obtain a final flat surface but there are several methods of installation depending on the material selected. For most of the ceramic tile and porcelain, we use a tooth-edge trowel to spread the thin-set, adhesive thin layer, or mastic. For natural stone, the installation requires a mud-bed, or mud-set, which is a method that consists in spreading thin-set with a tooth-edge trowel of 1/8 over the surface, and then spread a thick coat of mortar that goes from 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch. Finally to set the tiles, the installer repeats the process of spreading thin-set on the back of each tile, to ensure proper adhesion and to avoid hollow spaces between the mortar and the tile. For each type of installations, is necessary to fill the joints with grout (sanded or un-sanded, depending on the material chosen.) This procedure is done with a grout float (rubber-edge trowel) and then the installer finishes the joints with a damp sponge for uniform appearance. CLEANING AND SEALING PROCESS
In order to protect and add longevity to the stone floors, the installer perform this last process that involves the use of a special cleaner for natural stone products, that removes all the possible residues left from the grout or other materials used. Once the floor is being cleaned and is all dry the installation crew start the sealing process that is done with products created for the solely purpose of protecting the floor against most of the common stains that can occur. There are different types of sealers that can either enhance the color, veining, and shade of the floors, or just protect them. Most of these sealers come with 10 to 15 years manufacturing guarantee. For ceramic and porcelain tiles, the industry has design a sealer in order to protect the joints, so that it will preserve the color of the grout selected in perfect condition and stainless. This process is performed only at costumer’s request. When working on new constructions, we cover all the floors and surfaces after they are inspected and approved, in order to avoid future damages caused by the traffic of equipment and machinery of other trades.
FABRICATION PROCESS Once the estimator has confirmed the measurements and took the templates, the production manager proceeds to coordinate the selection of the slab, the cutting based on the templates, and then the finishing of the pieces. The finish may vary from the different types of edges selected. We can fabricate full bullnose, half bullnose, flat profile, double and single ogee, double and single chamfer, and chiseled; we can also fabricate either under mount or drop-in sink When all the pieces are sealed and waxed, in order to add additional protection to the stone, we proceed to safely transport the countertop and vanity to the jobsite to perform the one-day installation.
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