The face of cultured marble will never be the same!
We are proud to introduce our “photofuzion” process, our “photofuzion 6300” press and the product that will change the cultured marble and solid surface industries forever… “TruStone.”
With the advent of Design Imaging’s new “photofuzion” technology it is now possible to embed large format high-resolution images of beautiful natural granites and marbles into the surface of cultured marble. This can be accomplished for approximately the same cost as the granite chip and veining techniques currently used in today’s cast polymer products, however the results are superior.
Our “photofuzion” technology allows our dealers to duplicate any surface, or for that matter anything that can be photographed or created graphically, and “fuze” it into a cultured marble surface.
Customers no longer have to settle for the faux styles of cultured marbles currently available. Now they can experience the look of the real thing in “TruStone”… without the high-end cost, maintenance and weight of natural stone.
The photofuzion Process
Heat and pressure combine in our Photofuzion technology to transfer breath-taking images into the surface of various cast-polymer substrates, particularly cultured marble.
Our “photofuzion 6300” press creates these conditions accurately and consistently project after project.
Image Gallery
Our Image Gallery is the “Heart and Soul” of our business. We have gone to great lengths to develop one of the largest collections of large-format high-resolution images available anywhere.
We have developed technology to create images at a 1:1 ratio up to 5 feet by 10 feet in size while maintaining intricate detail. We initiated our image library with the most beautiful granites and marbles available, and we are constantly adding to this collection. We will be adding many other images over the months to come, including a collection of woods, accent trims and scenery.
We encourage you to use your imagination, and if there are other images or materials you would like represented in our galleries please let us know… we will continue to grow and produce the most comprehensive collection of large format high-resolution images available in the world.
Although your cultured marble products are strong and durable, they are not indestructible. Care should be taken to clean and maintain your product.
1. The surface can be scratched and care should be taken to avoid using objects on it that might cause scratches.
2. Avoid placing objects that might burn, melt, scar or damage the glossy surface
3. Avoid spilling nail polish, nail polish remover, and other caustic chemicals on the surface.
4. Avoid excessive tightening of plumbing fixtures which could result in cracking the marble.
Cleaning
Cultured Marble products are easily cleaned with a soft rag or sponge and most nonabrasive household cleaners. We recommend using a glass cleaner, such as Windex or Glass Plus, routinely to clean the surface. Other sanitizing household cleaners are also acceptable as long as they are labeled “Non Abrasive.”
Hard Water and mineral deposits caused by water supply in some areas may be removed using cleaners sold for removing iron, calcium, and other mineral deposits. (Follow the label instructions). DO NOT leave these products in contact with the cultured marble surface for an extended or prolonged period of time.
Repairing your Cultured Marble
Although minor scratches can be polished out with minimal effort, we recommend that professionals repair the damaged surfaces for best results. A dull surface can be re-polished with polishing compound and a power buffer.
Cultured marble products are generally coated in the mold with a clear or colored gelcoat. This outer layer provides the ultimate strength to the bonded martrix. It also makes the final product water proof, durable and resistant to chipping. Depending on the finishing process used, the gelcoat also provides the shiny surface that adds luster to the final product.
Because the final objects are cast in mold, the installed product has minimal seams and when installed properly, using mildew resistant 100% silicone, it becomes virtually leak proof. Tubs are cast with the deck attached to the tub bowl in one solid piece. In residential construction, vanity tops typically have the bowl cast as an integral part of the vanity deck, avoiding potentially unsightly seams between bowl and vanity deck. Cultured marble shower panels are typically only seamed where panels meet in the corners.
Cultured marble products are very versatile and find applications in residential construction, multi -family housing as well as commercial dwellings. Over the past 10 years, raw materials and manufacturing techniques have improved dramatically which will allow you to enjoy your cultured marble products in their original luster for many years to come.
Granite countertops require special care so that they continue looking beautiful for many years. Although granite is quite resistant to scratches, to properly maintain this type of countertop material, it’s advisable to follow a few simple procedures.
Spills have a tendency to soak into the surface, so to avoid deep staining wipe up spills immediately.
For stone surfaces a neutral cleaner, such as stone soap or mild dishwashing liquid and warm water, is safe to use.
When cleaning with a soap solution, use a soft, clean cloth and then rinse the surface thoroughly. Finish off by drying with a soft, clean cloth.
If you do happen to stain the surface, removal depends on the type of stain. First, try removing it with this paste: mix together a cup of flour, 1-2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid, and water. Place the paste over the stain, cover in plastic wrap, and leave overnight. In the morning, use a wooden utensil to scrape away the paste and give it a rinse. This should work except for stains made from grease, oil, or milk. In these cases, instead of dishwashing liquid use hydrogen peroxide in the paste, or ammonia.
For organic stains resulting from coffee, tea, or fruit, a mixture of 12% hydrogen peroxide combined with a few drops of ammonia should work wonders.
Granite is—quite literally—as old as the earth. It is formed from liquid magma, the molten rock still found at the core of the planet, cooled slowly to form a substance approaching the hardness and durability of diamond. Granite is an igneous rock, the name reflecting its fiery beginnings. The chemical composition of granite is similar to that of lava. However, granite owes its hardness and density to the fact that it has been solidified deep within the earth, under extreme pressure. Over the eons, seismic activity has changed the crust of the planet, forcing veins of granite to the surface. Glaciers scraped off layers of dirt, sand and rock to expose granite formations. Typically revealed by outcrops, the deposits have been discovered on all the continents.
Composition
“Granites are formed of an aggregate of crystals which are molded together without any interspace between them or which enclose one another. The magnificent crystallinity of granite is a striking characteristic.” Geology of Granite, E. Raguin, London, 1965 p.3
It is accurate to speak of “granites,” because many varieties of the stone exist. While they differ in color, texture and crystalline structure, the granites have three essential minerals in common:
Feldspar (50% or greater)
Quartz (25-40%)
Mica (3-10%)
These minerals occur in different proportions, giving each granite its own color, texture and structural characteristics. In addition, hornblende, magnetite, hematite, pyrite, zircon, garnet, corundum and other minerals may be present in smaller amounts, adding to the unique coloration and texture of each granite deposit. In supplying granite for all large building or complex of buildings, it is essential that the stone be consistent in color and texture. To assure this, each granite color must be quarried from the same deposit. With natural material like granite, a certain amount of “movement” or grain in the stone must be expected. Many people find this flow and blending of colors to be the most compelling reason for using granite.
Kitchen granite countertops in tiles or slabs provide a unique and long-term home remodeling solution. This remains one of the toughest, most sophisticated natural stone choices on the market. Best of all, no two slabs are alike – you will therefore be creating a unique-looking, luxurious kitchen. You can also be sure that with good care, the splendid looks of your granite kitchen countertops will not fade over time.
What are the main benefits of this product and why is it so popular?
1. Value Set In Stone
It is a given that kitchen granite countertops will add to the value of your property. This makes it a sound investment. It adds such elegance to a kitchen, that it will more than pay for itself by the time you erect that For Sale sign outside. If you have funds from a home improvement loan available, this may be a sensible way to spend it.
2. Affordable Aesthetic Appeal
Granite is a natural material that is freely available. It has been around for centuries, yet the trend towards home use has only taken hold in the last forty years or so. While it may seem expensive compared to other options, it can be one of the best investments a homeowner can make. If you take the durability into account, this truly becomes one of the more affordable home improvement options. It is a practical and attractive solution for kitchen cabinets. Continue reading →
