Product and Installation Manual

I. INTRODUCTION

1. Purpose

The purpose of this manual is to define the basic technical requirements, suggestions and guidelines related to the introduction of the product, its usage, installation and maintenance.

2. Terminology

The word diamastone® used in this document refers to engineered quartz slabs, tiles or cut to size forms, the “Company” marketed and sold by Stone Marketing & Design Services Inc. (SMDS Inc.) or its approved distributors or agents, manufactured using Breton Technology.

The word “the Customer” used in this document refers to any person, firm or company placing an order with SMDS Inc. or its approved distributors for the purchase of any diamastone® material.

The word “Product manual” used in this document refers to the technical information, specification, fabrication, maintenance and other data relating to the use and application of diamastone® Quartz.

3. General Information

diamastone® is a composite of natural minerals and rocks – mainly Quartz minerals bound with resin, pigments and other fillers. diamastone® Quartz is manufactured using the most advanced and latest technology from Breton machinery of Italy.

diamastone® Quartz is a high quality solid, non porous surface product that is resistant to scratches, staining, water and heat. diamastone® Quartz requires minimum maintenance. The surface remains in immaculate condition for years.

diamastone® Quartz can be used in a variety of domestic and commercial interior applications including kitchen and vanity tops, backsplashes, tub surrounds, tub decks, flooring, wall cladding, stairs, furniture, fire place mantles and surrounds, elevator floors and walls, food service counters, transaction counters etc.

diamastone® Quartz is manufactured using the world renowned Breton technology
(Breton SPA of Italy). The quality of engineered stone will vary from brand to brand depending on the quality of resin and raw materials used in the manufacture of the stone.

diamastone® Quartz has been manufactured using the quality raw materials as specified and recommended by Breton SPA of Italy.

4. Limitations and responsibilities of diamastone® and the consumers.

We have taken every care to provide information in this document; this information should be used as a guide in the design, installation and care of diamastone® Quartz. No warranty, however implied or expressed, is given in relation to the procedures outlined in this Product Manual except that is required by law.

SMDS Inc. assumes that the designers, fabricators and installers using the product, are familiar with all aspects outlined in this Product Manual and strictly adhere to the recommendations and specifications described in the manual for use with diamastone® Quartz. Any deviation from the recommended guidelines may result in the product not performing as expected and may result in the warranty becoming null and void.

A word of caution for people who are using this Product Manual, though every care and precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, the Company assumes no responsibility for errors and or omissions, or for the damages resulting from the use of information contained in this Product Manual. Under no circumstances shall the Company be liable for any loss of profit or any other loss or damage caused or alleged to have been caused either directly or indirectly as a result of any person solely relying upon any information contained in this Product Manual.

The Company reserves the right to change or modify this Product Manual or its electronic version from time to time without notice. It is the responsibility of the Consumer(s) to consult or contact their local diamastone® distributor for accessing the latest version or updates.

II. VARIOUS APPLICATIONS OF DIAMASTONE® QUARTZ:

1. Interior applications:

diamastone® Quartz is ideal for use in interior applications for kitchens countertops, bathroom vanity tops, tub surrounds, tub decks, floors and walls, stairs, fireplaces and surrounds. diamastone® Quartz is ideal for use in residences, restaurants, hotels, condominiums, hospitals, schools, commercial buildings and laboratories ….or wherever high quality, sanitary and low maintenance counters and floors are required. diamastone® Quartz has an absorption coefficient as low as .05% which prevents micro organism and bacteria growth and renders the surface suitable to be Koshered.

The use is comparable to that of natural stone, with the following additional advantages:

  • Minimum waste of material used due to consistent size of the slabs
  • The uniformity of color permits additional, coordinated applications
  • Natural defects such as veining, pores, cracks or fissures are eliminated
  • Highly resistant to heat
  • Scratch and chip resistant
  • Resistant to stains
  • Resistant to acids, alkalis, chemicals and solvents
  • Resistant to mildew and mould
  • Immune to freezing and thawing

When diamastone® Quartz is exposed to direct sunlight, slight color change and warping may result. It is advisable to avoid direct sunlight over a prolonged period on the surfaces used in the above applications.

2. Exterior Applications:

The Company does not recommend diamastone® for use in exterior applications, as when diamastone® Quartz is exposed to prolonged direct sunlight, slight color change and warping may result. The warranty does not cover exterior applications.

III. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

diamastone® is a high quality solid surface product that is long lasting and is practically maintenance free. diamastone® Quartz offers a carefully designed color palette of products that can be used in a variety of domestic and commercial applications.
diamastone® Quartz however, is not an ideal product for exterior use as exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can result in colour changes or fading and warping

1. diamastone® Quartz Specifications:

diamastone® standard slab sizes: 3050 x 1400 x 20 or 30mm.
diamastone® Jumbo slab sizes: 3300 x 1650 x 20 or 30mm.
diamastone® tile sizes: Available in most of the colours in 300 x 300 mm,
400 x 400mm, 600 x 600 mm, and 600 x 300 mm
The thickness of the tiles can be10 mm, 12 mm, 20 mm or 30 mm. Tiles are calibrated for both dimension and thickness and beveled around the edges. Tiles are special orders.

2. diamastone® colour, surface finish and pattern:

The diamastone® manufacturing process is renowned worldwide and contains more than 93% of natural quartz, 7% combined bonding agent, special additives and pigments, thereby making it an extremely hard wearing, practical and highly versatile surface.
diamastone®, the ultimate in stone technology and sophistication offers a color palette ranging from pure white to subtle beige tones to the vibrant beauty of the luminescent colors, which provide the opportunity to perfect your individual style and decor.
diamastone® slabs are generally available in a polished finish; however, honed finish can be supplied.

3. diamastone® color consistency and tonal characteristics:

Variation in color may occur from batch to batch of diamastone® Quartz slabs and tiles due to the location from which the natural material is sourced. The composition of natural quartz and granite particles used in the products may sometimes produce minor irregularities such as crazing in the grains, blotches, spots, colored particles. Such imperfections are generally accepted by the industry.

diamastone® is a non porous product but very fine micro pores could be present in certain product ranges during manufacturing process.

4. diamastone® Technical Characteristics

Specification Test Method Result
Water Absorption ASTM C97 ≤ 0.03%
Density ASTM C97 2.2 – 2.4 gr/cm³
Flextural Strength ASTM C880 6,200 – 11,000 psi; 42.7 – 75.8 Mpa
Dimension Stability EN 14617-12 Class A
Electrical Stability EN 14617-13 Volume resistance (Rv) = 0.9 x 1014Ω
Volume resistivity (pv) = 4.9 x 1014Ωm
Impact Resistance ASTM D1709 27 lbs (122N)
Compressive Strength ASTM C170 22,000 – 28,000 psi
Abrasion ASTM C1243 Volume of chord: V = 89 – 194mm³
Freeze – Thaw Resistance ASTMC1026 No defects after 15 freeze-thaw cycles
Mohs Hardness Scale EN 101 6.0 – 7.0
Microbial Resistance ASTM D6329-98 (2003) Ranking 3: Resitant to Mold Growth
Resistance to Chemical Acids ASTM C560 Not affected
Slip Resistance at Honed 400 DIN 51130 R9 – R10
Determination of resistance to immersion in boiling water AS 2924.2-7: 1998
(Equiv. to ISO 4586.2-7: 1997)
Effect on surface (rating): 5
(no visible change)
Determination of resistance to dry heat AS 2924.2-8: 1998
(Equiv. to ISO 4586.2-8: 1997)
Effect on surface (rating): 5
(no visible change)
Determination of resistance to staining (procedure A) AS 2924.2-15: 1998
(Equiv. to ISO 4568.2-15: 1997)
Effect on surface (rating): 5
(no visible change)
Determination of resistance to thermal shock AS 2924.2-9: 1998
(Equiv. to ISO 10545-9: 1994)
Specimens showing defects: None

Note: The values quoted above for diamastone® Quartz are average range of values of the different Quartz products tested and should be considered as an indication only. The test results may vary depending on the colors and also the batches of the products.

IV. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. General instructions to installers:

When taking delivery of diamastone® Quartz slabs, please make sure of the following:

  • Check all the slabs for uniformity of color and granulometry (aggregate distribution) as slabs vary in color and granulometry from batch to batch.
  • Check the slabs for any surface defects including contamination of grains, fine fissures, stains, chipping and for warping and thickness variation if any.
  • Remove any sharp tools or implement from the vicinity of the slabs to avoid scratches on the polished surface.

If you detect any problems after taking delivery of the slabs and prior to cutting, then do not proceed with the processing and return the slabs immediately.

2. Product Identification

diamastone® slabs carry a product identification label on one side of the slab giving the details of the product.

V. CUTTING AND INSTALLATION GUIDE

When fabricating diamastone® Quartz, care should be taken when cutting. Tension within the slab can cause cracking. Following these simple rules can minimize the chance of this occurring.

  • When planning a plunge cut, drill a 1” relief hole at the termination point of the cut, prior to beginning the cut. Always cut towards the relief hole
  • When planning a “U” shaped cut, mark and drill relief holes where the cut lines will intersect.
  • Always make the shortest cuts 1st.
  • When planning an “L” shaped cut, mark and drill relief holes where the cut lines will intersect. Always cutting the shortest length 1st, and cutting towards the relief hole.
  • When planning a cut that will be the full length of the slab, either with a plunge cut, or starting at the edge, mark and drill a relief hole at the termination point of the cut, then cut towards the relief hole.

1. Kitchen / Vanity Cabinets:

Prior to installing the counter tops, care should be taken to check the cabinets and base units for the following:

  • Strong and stable, the cabinets and the sub strata base should be able to withstand diamastone® Quartz countertop of weight in excess of 55 to 60 kgs per square meter.
  • Units are fastened to both the wall and between the base units
  • Check that the cabinets are leveled property. The top of the cabinets must be plumb and true and flat. Make sure that the level does not vary by a maximum tolerance of 1.6mm (1/16”) over a length of 3 metres (10’)
  • Remove any nails, screws or sharp edges from the surfaces where the tops would be placed

2. Installation of Countertops:

No one kitchen counter top is the same as the other, however, we have given below some guidelines for installing diamastone® Quartz countertops. The base supporting the diamastone® Quartz countertop can be either Complete Perimeter support or Complete underlay support.

  • It is not common to have all the walls perfectly square. Please make allowance for such imperfections prior to cutting.
  • Counter tops should be placed on a very sound and solid frame or a base which is perfectly plumb and true level.

Complete Perimeter substrate Support:

  • Support the top both front and back with a moisture resistant rail of not less than 90mm (3.5”) wide of 18mm thickness. Then support the back of the slab with 90mm-100mm (3.5”-4”) wide rails spaced at regular interval of approximately 600mm (23.75”) apart as shown below:
  • It is important to provide a minimum of 3mm (1/8”) between the edge of the countertop and the wall so that any expansion in the wall or top due to temperature variation in the atmosphere could be accommodated. Additional gap of 1 mm per lineal meter should be provided for countertops with lengths exceeding three meters (10’).
  • Apply dabs of flexible glue at regular intervals of not less than 25 cm (10”) apart on the back of the top. Then place the tops gently and level the tops before the glue gets hard.

Complete Full substrate support

Alternately the complete surface area of the countertop can be supported over the kitchen cabinets with full width self supporting underlay made up of high moisture resistant MDF or marine plywood of minimum thickness of ¾”.

3. Planning and installation of tops with joints and cut-outs

  • It is important when planning the joints that the cut outs for the sink and cook top etc are not placed 15 cm (6”) from the joints.
  • SMDS Inc. does not recommend installing “ L” shaped countertops without a joint at the corner of “ L” shape due to various mechanical stresses to be experienced by such tops after installation (example: settlement of floors, cabinets etc.). Fabricator should use his own discretion when installing “ L” shape countertops as our warranty does not apply when “ L” shaped counter tops are fabricated from one piece of diamastone® slabs.
  • All the joints in the tops should be well supported underneath.
  • All the joints should be properly cleaned with acetone or denatured spirit to get rid of all the dust and grime.
  • All the sides of the joints should be grooved or slotted in the middle so that the glue joining the top will be well distributed for good adhesion.
  • Apply the flexible glue to the joints and also for joining the frame to the countertops.
  • Check that the countertop is well aligned both along the joints and also along the front and check that the tops are leveled properly and plumb and true. Use paper masking tape at the joints so that the glue applied to the joints does not damage the polished face.
  • Ensure that the joints are perfect and then place clamps at the joints until the adhesive sets properly.
  • Once the joints are properly set, remove the masking tape and clean off any excess adhesive and also the contact surface with acetone or denatured spirit.
  • Do not use any mechanical fasteners like screws and nails to diamastone® Quartz.

Hot and Cold Cut Outs

If you are planning to cut the cut outs at site of installation, it is most essential that the operation is done in an area where you can freely use wet tools. Never attempt to cut the sink cut outs and cook top cut outs on the top of cabinets with dry cutting tools.

All the cut outs should be cut using only wet cutting tools to avoid generating excess heat to the tops and the corners. The radius of the corner should be around 12mm (1/2”). When cut outs are planned, allow extra 3mm (1/8”) between the appliance edges and the top cut out sides. This is essential to accommodate any expansion that may develop in the top due to temperature changes of the atmosphere.

  • All care should be taken when installing appliances like cook tops and sinks etc. Read the instruction manual that was supplied along with the appliance prior to commencing installing the appliances. Make sure that all the brackets and supporting nuts are with the pack.
  • Care should be taken when joining the tops above any heat generating appliances (e.g. under countertop oven). Avoid joints above such heat generating appliances as the warranty becomes null and avoid if any joints are placed above such appliances.
  • Centre all the appliances in the cut out and make sure that you allow minimum of 3mm (1/8”) space between the inside edges of the appliance and the cut out walls.
  • Position all the appliances in place and make sure that the seals provided with the appliances are properly placed prior to tightening the fasteners to keep the appliances in place. All the fasteners should be only finger tight. Never use force in tightening the fasteners.
  • Any appliances weighing more than 5 kg (11 lbs) should be adequately supported by the cabinet frames

diamastone® Quartz is designed and manufactured to withstand moderate heat but the product is not heat proof. The Thermal shock resistance is increased with the increase of the thickness of diamastone® Quartz. A slab with the thickness of 30 mm (1 ¼”) is far more resistant than a 10 mm (3/8”) slab. Like any other composite material, diamastone® Quartz may be damaged by a sudden or lasting exposure to high temperatures, mainly at the edges and cut-outs of the product, resulting in cracks. To prevent thermal shock, discoloration or other damages, it is necessary to use insulating pads when putting hot objects on top and not to expose the surface to open flames and prolonged contact with very hot pots. We always recommend using a hot pad or trivet, especially when using cooking units such as electric frying pans, crock pots, or roaster ovens.

Hot Pads

diamastone® Quartz is resistant to dry heat up to 140°C (284°F). Since the different types of pots and pans available on the market may have double or triple bottoms in order to maintain normal cooking heat (developing temperatures much higher than 140°C – 284°F), it is important to put hot pots, crock pots, electrical skillets, hot food trays, or pans (including coffee pots) on a trivet or hot pad, never directly on the countertop. Always place hot food trays on a hot pad, not on the diamastone® Quartz surface, prior to positioning into food wells. Dry heat at higher temperatures than 140°C (284°F) can irreparably damage the countertop leaving permanent marks. The thermal shock that will occur could also break the surface of the countertop.

Cut outs should be more than 2” apart. Space must be included for insulation and additional equipment support.

Heat Lamps

Do not use heat lamps to heat diamastone® Quartz solely.  Heat lamps can generate extremely high surface temperatures. Minimize the heat spot on diamastone® Quartz Surfaces. The distance between heat lamps and diamastone® Quartz Surfaces should be determined by lamp characteristics and food temperature requirements.

Fireplaces

diamastone® Quartz should not be used where it can come in direct contact with the firebox or flames.

  • All the joints between countertop and the appliance edges can be sealed with a high quality transparent flexible sealant. Clean any excess sealant immediately.
  • Uneven thermal distribution over part of the countertop may occur in areas above dishwasher and over hot water plumbing systems which may cause the top to crack. To avoid this, all the hot water plumbing should be thermally insulated. It is a good practice to make the tap holes slightly oversized so that the hot plumbing system is not in direct contact with the product. When installing the dishwasher, it is essential to fit an 18mm (3/4’”) thick moisture resistant board or marine plywood above the dishwasher in the cabinet.

4. Over Hang and Supporting Brackets:

All the overhangs provided for the breakfast bar or any top should be properly supported with brackets. The rule of thumb is that any overhang exceeding 300mm (12”) shall require 10mm thick x 70mm wide steel bar placed underneath the top. However, if 40mm  (1 ½”) thick laminated edges are used then the piece pasted to the top can extend the whole width of the over hang to take some stress placed on the overhangs.

If the overhang is less than 500mm (20”) then general practice is to provide a support base made up of timber and the brackets placed approximately 500 mm apart. All overhangs exceeding 500mm should be supported with proper metal legs. The brackets should be fastened to a backer plate, which is secured to the cabinet with screws.

5. Installation of Backsplash:

diamastone® Quartz can be used for backsplash applications in wet areas, behind the wash basins/sinks and behind cook tops. However, when installing back splashes behind gas cook tops and heat generating appliances, it is important that the installer must follow the local Gas Installations specifications.

The installer must also ensure that the following general guidelines are strictly followed:

  • Make sure that the walls are vertical and free from dirt and grime; if so clean the entire surface.
  • It is not advisable to install back splashes on gyprock boards and any paper lined gypsum product.
  • A fibre cement sheet is recommended. The back splash pieces should be thoroughly cleaned on the back and on the top and placed in the area to be installed. Check whether the pieces fit properly.
  • After the pieces of cladding satisfactorily fit, then clean the surface of contacts with acetone or denatured spirits and apply dabs of transparent two-part epoxy glue to both the surfaces of the contact and the cladding. It is not advisable to use grout between the cladding and the countertop. Use a flexible silicone-based sealant to fill the gap between the countertop and backsplash.

6. Cladding Walls:

diamastone® Quartz can be used for all internal cladding of walls and vertical applications. The installation of vertical panels varies from location to location. When designing and installing vertical panels and cladding, it is necessary to take the mass of the product into account. The services of an experienced structural engineer should be sought during the designing and installation phases.

7. Installation of Tiles:

diamastone® Quartz slabs and tiles selected for wall / floor applications are an excellent choice that offers the flexibility and visual impact not previously available in the marketplace. However, as with any tile application, it is important to follow the correct fixing methods suitable for the specific applications. Consult the MIA or TCA.

Tiling system varies from location to location and may be installed in a number of ways.
It is important for installers to take into consideration, the following characteristics of the materials that make up the different layers of the tile system and understand how they interact with each other if the complete system has to perform and function successfully.

  • Differential movement
  • Structural deflections
  • Foundation movements
  • Thermal movements
  • Moisture movements
  • Dimensional stability

Most importantly the thermal movement (expansion and shrinking) of engineered tiles should be taken into consideration when designing a tile system, as the engineered stones have a much higher linear thermal expansion when compared to natural stones and ceramic tiles.

Moisture movements, both permanent and reversible changes, may occur due to moisture content of the tiling system. Engineered stones have been known to possess appreciable reversible moisture movement.

Dimensional stability: this refers to the ability of an engineered stone tile to resist curling or warping when exposed to water contained in the adhesives. When the tile surface absorbs moisture the surface of the wet side expands more than the dry side with the result that the tiles tend to warp.

The adhesive manufacturers such as, Mapei and Laticrete, have vast experience in the installation of the tiling system using Engineered Stones. Accordingly, we strongly recommend that the installer should consult the relevant manufacturers and seek their advice prior to installation of diamastone® Quartz slab and tiles.

The links to their websites given below:

Mapei: https://www.mapei.com
Laticrete: https://www.laticrete.com

SMDS Inc. does not accept any responsibility nor do we recommend a particular method of installation. It is the responsibility of the installer/buyer to design the tiling system based on the advice obtained from the engineered tile adhesive manufacturer.

VI. CARE & MAINTENANCE

1. Counter Tops and Floors

diamastone® Quartz is a high quality solid, non-porous product that is resistant to scratches, heat, and stain. However, diamastone® Quartz is not heat, stain and scratch proof.

diamastone® Quartz requires minimum maintenance. The following care and maintenance guidelines will help to keep the surface in immaculate condition for years. diamastone® Quartz provides considerable cost reduction in cleaning.

2. General routine care and maintenance

  • diamastone® Quartz is highly resistant to stains caused by fruit juices, liquid food coloring, coffee, tea, wine, vinegar, grapes, soft drinks, paints, nail polish and remover, automotive fluids, and permanent makers. If any of the above is accidentally spilled on the top/floor, wipe off the stained area with any commonly available multi-purpose cleaner or household detergent and then rinse immediately with ordinary water. For more stubborn spills and stains, repeat the procedure several times and use a household scouring pad to remove the stain. It is possible that some of the stubborn stains may leave a light mark or very slight discoloration on the stones.
  • The high gloss finish and extremely low moisture absorption of diamastone® Quartz eliminates the need for sealing.

3. Preventing damage to counter tops from heat

diamastone® Quartz is designed and manufactured to withstand moderate heat but the product is not heat proof. The Thermal shock resistance is increased with the increase of the thickness of diamastone® Quartz. A slab with the thickness of 30 mm (1 ¼”) is far more resistant than a 10 mm (3/8”) slab. Like any other composite material, diamastone® Quartz may be damaged by a sudden or lasting exposure to high temperatures, mainly at the edges and cut-outs of the product, resulting in cracks. To prevent thermal shock, discoloration or other damages, it is necessary to use insulating pads when putting hot objects on top and not to expose the surface to open flames and prolonged contact with very hot pots. We always recommend using a hot pad or trivet, especially when using cooking units such as electric frying pans, crock pots, or roaster ovens

4. Use of common kitchen implements

Common kitchen implements including sharp knives will not harm the diamastone® Quartz surface, as it is made up of pure natural quartz. Continued use of kitchen knives on the counter tops could dull the polished surface. Care should be exercised when moving heavy objects and avoid dropping heavy kitchen tools.

5. Removing foreign materials

If food, chewing gum, nail-polish, paint or any other foreign matter is found sticking to the top / floor, simply scrape away the same with a sharp blade or sharp plastic scraper. The metal surface used in scraping the dirt may leave grey metal marks on the surface, and ordinary scouring pads can easily remove them. Wash and rinse the surface in the normal way with water.

6. Exposure to chemicals and solvents

diamastone® Quartz can be permanently damaged by prolonged exposure to strong chemicals and solvents. It is advisable not to use hydro fluoric acid, any product containing trichlorethane or methylene chloride and paint strippers. This type of product can be cleaned with either detergents that have a pH level no higher than 11 (avoid caustic soda) or with acidic detergents for persistent grime (no lower than pH 3). A stone sealer/impregnator can be used for light colors.

7. Exposure to direct sunlight

When diamastone® Quartz slabs and tiles are exposed to direct sunlight over a prolonged period, slight color change and warping may result. It is advisable to avoid direct sunlight over a prolonged period on the surfaces.

8. Maintenance of floors

Dust, grit and barrier materials should be removed from the floors on a daily basis by sweeping with a soft brush and when necessary by use of machine. The surfaces should always be kept free from dust, sand and soil. diamastone® Quartz surfaces can be easily cleaned with warm water and a mild household detergent, using a standard mop. Make sure the floor is well rinsed and is completely dry before allowing people to walk on it.

9. Maintenance of Honed Finish

Honed finish surfaces require additional daily maintenance and care than the polished surfaces. The area exposed on a honed finish is more than the polished surface; hence any dirt, markings and scratches would be more obvious on a honed finish surface than on a polished surface. These markings can be removed using non abrasive cleaning products.

10. Advise to installer

It is the duty of the installer to advise the end user of the important aspects of Care and Maintenance of diamastone® products.

VII. ECO-FACTS

Specifiers of diamastone® Quartz can qualify for several different credits in the LEED program.

1. Recycled Content

  • Engineered quartz can incorporate recycled products such as glass, mirror, seashells, granite chips thereby can be considered post consumer and post industrial recycled material
  • Post-consumer recycled content – 20% in quartz products containing glass, mirror, seashells, granite chips
  • Some colors contain 78% granite chips and so are considered post industrial

2. Manufacturing Process

  • diamastone® Quartz is recyclable when its current use is no longer required. Our factories propose new and innovative products by re-cycling materials that could not be used in any other way by the natural product industry. Due to their shape and size, agglomerating them together with a low percentage of other components such as dust/powders and organic pigments produce trend setting materials
  • Our factories respect the environment in all phases of the manufacturing process. The water used for the production phases is filtered and re-cycled. All dust particles in the air are fully filtered in a controlled environment in our factories
  • The waste from the different production processes is re-used. Slurry produced is sent to specialized companies that use it to produce cement therefore reused. The cut-offs resulting from the cutting of the slabs into tiles can be crushed and used as a bed for industrial floorings and roads
  • The waste that cannot be recycled is sent to authorized dumps or old quarries as landfill.

3. End of Life

  • Quartz is an abundant natural resource throughout the world and can be extracted without undue impact on the environment
  • Quartz is extremely durable, one of the hardest materials in the world, ranking fourth behind the diamond therefore hard wearing nature
  • Quartz products have a long life cycle- will perform and sustain beyond the life of the building ensuring further conservation of resources and reducing the need for frequent removal and disposal.

4. Low Environmental Impact

  • Quartz is low maintenance and does not require harsh stripping chemicals or waxes
  • Does not require the use of toxic or high-VOC finishes and cleaning products to maintain cleanliness and surface finish. A neutral detergent and warm water is all that is required.  Neutral detergents are readily biodegradable
  • Quartz has very low water absorption. Non porous surface will inhibit the growth of microbes, mold and mildew therefore environmentally friendly
  • Quartz has antibacterial properties therefore suitable for surfaces such as laboratories
  • Tiles are available in large format, reducing the number of grout joints and provides fewer opportunities for bacteria growth
  • Tiles are shipped in recyclable cardboard boxes and re-usable wooden pallets Slabs are shipped in wooden sandwich crates which are recyclable or reusable, thereby reducing waste.
  • Product is fully cured prior to installation and is delivered ready to install. Does not need a flush out period or special maintenance procedures before building occupation.
  • There are no emissions released after installation
  • Since there are no harmful substances diamastone® products can be disposed of in landfills or can be incinerated.
  • An MSDS sheet indicates 0 hazard rating. None of the ingredients in our products are considered hazardous materials according to OSHA
  • CLASS 1 fire rated ; heat resistant

5. Performance

  • Quartz holds up to sustained traffic, spills and intensive cleaning
  • Quartz is stain resistant and scratch resistant
  • High slip resistance – .7 dry
  • Moderately priced
  • Unlimited attractive colors for a pleasing environment

6. diamastone®  – LEED POINTS

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED recognizes performance in five key areas of human environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environment quality.

LEED points available when using diamastone®

1. MRc4.1 – Recycled Content: 10% (Post-consumer + ½ pre consumer)     1 point

  • diamastone® Quartz incorporates recycled products such as glass,
    mirror, seashells, granite chippings
  • 20% in quartz products containing glass or mirror

2. MRc5.1 – Regional Materials, 20% manufactured regionally     1 point

  • diamastone® Quartz countertops are fabricated by local fabricators within
    500 miles of a project.

3. EQc4.1– Low-Emitting Materials, Adhesives and Sealants     1 point

  • diamastone® Quartz does not contain VOC’s
  • Adhesives and sealants recommended have low VOC emissions

SMDS Inc. employees are committed to reducing our carbon footprint. The Company’s operational practices include recycling programs that encompass paper, bottles, computers and office equipment, particularly the use of recycled shipping materials. Programmable thermostats contribute to energy conservation and energy saving lighting is used.

VII. PERSONAL PROTECTION

Silica may be released when grinding, machining or cutting this product. During cutting, grinding or sanding operations use sufficient ventilation to keep air concentrations below exposure limits. Wet cutting methods are advised to minimize production of dust and release of respirable silica.

During normal installation, no special respiratory protection is required. However, during cutting, grinding or sanding operations avoid breathing dust by wearing appropriate filter respirator. Appropriate breathing protection depends on working area conditions and individual circumstances.

During cutting, grinding or sanding operations safety glasses with side shields should be worn as eye protectors for industrial applications.

No special hand protection is required.

During cutting, grinding or sanding operations suitable protective clothing should be worn (e.g. cotton overalls buttoned at neck and wrist)

Wash hands before eating and drinking. Launder clothing before re-use.

Contact Us

Stone Marketing & Design Service Inc.<br/> T: 905 264-9242 F: 905 264-1982<br/> TOLL FREE 1-833-361-3194<br/> info@smds.net<br/>

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