Packing depends on the nature of the product as follows:
Tiles are packed in quantities of 5 or 10 in a styrofoam box and placed in wooden crates
Slabs are bundled in quantities of 8 or 9 pieces in wooden crates
counter tops are bundled in quantities of 10 to 15 pieces in wooden crates.
202
Is your granite real and why is it so inexpensive?
2007-12-20 15:50:26
Answer
All the granite products sold by BuildDirect are genuine granite, produced from the natural rock and are first quality. We are able to sell at such low prices because we ship directly from the production site, in addition to cost reductions owing to our huge volumes in shipping.
203
Is your granite Kerosene cut?
2007-12-20 15:50:50
Answer
No, it is not. BuildDirect ensures that all its granites are cut by using water as coolant and gives a lifetime guarantee of the quality. Some manufacturers use petroleum by-products in the coolant to aid the cutting process and reduce processing costs. The granite is later soaked in water and washed to remove the chemical smell, but the damage is done the moment the chemical comes into contact with the ferric content in the stone. Within a couple of years, rust marks will appear.
204
How do I know BuildDirect''s granite is high quality?
2007-12-20 15:51:17
Answer
BuildDirect supplies only first quality material. The quality of the material is determined by measuring different parameters of a granite product through the entire production process:
Mining – BuildDirect''s granites are mined utilizing modern methods. Some mines still use dynamite or blasting methods to reduce cost, but this also damages the granite. The shock wave created by the blast will cause invisible hairline cracks which will result in the stone cracking at some later time.
Cutting– BuildDirect''s granites are cut by using wateras coolant to ensure a lifetime guarantee on the quality of the product.
Dimensions – Product dimensions are controlled within the stipulated limits in ASTM standards. Tiles are calibrated to ensure their thickness is uniform. Gauging is done to ensure the tiles are square. Beveling is done to produce a smooth edge on the tiles
Inspection: Inspection is done at different stages of the manufacturing process and the products are segregated for unusual patches, major color variation, cracks, dimensions, surface finish, and other quality issues. They are then categorized as first, second, and commercial quality. BuildDirect supplies only first quality material.
205
What are granite slabs?
2007-12-20 15:51:43
Answer
Granite Slabs are produced by cutting large granite blocks into 3/4 or 1-1/4 sheets. When cut, these slabs are cleaned and then polished.
206
What are the standard dimensions of Granite slabs and how are they prepared for shipping?
2007-12-20 15:52:10
Answer
Usually, the minimum average sizes of granite slabs are 105 x 54. Thickness can also be 3/4 or 1-1/4. The granite slabs are packed in bundles of approximately 400 to 450 square feet, each bundle including approx. 8 to 10 granite slabs. Each bundle weighs 2.6 tons, or 5,700 pounds. Every slab is protected by a thin plastic sheet placed between slabs. A piece of wood is placed beneath the slabs. The information that is printed on the labels attached to each bundle includes: • Name of the Material • Billing Sizes • Quantity of slabs in the bundle • Block number from where the slabs come • country of origin
207
How many bundles of granite slabs can be loaded onto a container?
2007-12-20 15:52:38
Answer
Usually 8 bundles or 3,600 square feet of ¾ granite slabs can be placed into a single 20-21 ton container. The granite slabs are packed in bundles of approximately 300 to 350 square feet. Each bundle includes approximately 6 to 7 slabs, weighing 2.6 tons, or 5,700 pounds. For 1 ¼ granite slabs, 8 bundles (or 2,380 square feet), fill up a container of 20-21 tons.
208
How are granite slabs sealed?
2007-12-20 15:53:05
Answer
Slabs are treated with resin most commonly in one of two varieties:
.1. Resination with hydro-repellent, a treatment which covers most of small fissures, and helps to brighten the color of the granite. This is the more common variety of sealant. 2. Resination with epoxy: This treatment fills up larger holes and open veins. This variety is generally used with Brazilian stone.
209
How is glass tile colored?
2007-12-20 15:55:39
Answer
Glass tiles can be colored in a couple of ways. In the first process, the pigments are mixed in with the molten glass, allowing the color to entirely permeate the body of the tile. The second process involves a layer of pigment which is fused to the surface of the tile during the firing process. Either way, glass tile will not fade, while remaining to be moisture-proof.
210
Is the color of glass tile uniform?
2007-12-20 15:56:47
Answer
here is a general uniformity from batch to batch in terms of dominant color. But there are shade variations to be expected between your sample and your order batch.
211
where is glass tile most commonly installed?
2007-12-20 15:57:54
Answer
Glass tile is renowned for its versatility. Because it is impervious to the effects of moisture, glass tile is a popular addition to bathroom areas and spa locations in commercial settings as well as residential ones. Glass tile can be used as a wall tile to cover surfaces entirely, or as flourishes and trim pieces. They can be used for shower stall floors, and as creative centerpieces to a room in the form of murals or as unique layouts that mix colored glass tiles in a mosaic pattern. They can also be used in outdoor settings, like in pools or courtyards, and even as mosaic patterns on external walls.
212
How does glass tile perform outdoors?
2007-12-20 15:58:21
Answer
Because glass tile is non-permeable, it is highly suitable for a surface which needs to resist moisture. Additionally, glass tile is frost proof as well as being heat, fire, and UV resistant as well. They also resist sudden temperature changes. In many ways, the addition of glass tile to an outdoor surface is one of the best means of protecting the overall structure of a property.
213
What issues should I be aware of when preparing a surface for a glass tile installation?
2007-12-20 15:58:50
Answer
Make sure that all substrates are level, dry, and clean. This is very important for the long-term health of the structure and the overall performance and look of the glass tile you''ve chosen to install. Sandpaper the area to clear it of any residual materials which might affect how well the tile will bond with the substrate. Generally, glass tile will adhere to nearly any type of material – wood, metal, plasterboard, more. The key to success, after the substrate has been prepared, is choosing the right kind of adhesive.
214
What adhesives work best with glass tile?
2007-12-20 15:59:16
Answer
One of the primary criteria when choosing adhesives for glass tile is the issue of trapped moisture. The impermeability of glass tile often results in trapped moisture after a glass tile installation. This can lead to problems down the line with your substrate, when mold growth becomes an issue which can affect the color of the glass tile, among other issues. Sand-based thinset will limit this problem, as opposed to mastic. When in doubt, seek the advice of local retailers who sell adhesives for tile. Read the instructions of all of the products you decide on, and always follow instructions on the packaging as carefully as you can.
215
How long should I wait before subjecting glass tile to full immersion in water?
2007-12-20 15:59:40
Answer
In the case of a glass tile installation for a pool bottom, bathtub, or shower stall, it''s generally advised that once the glass tile has been installed on a stable substrate, it''s a good idea to wait about 20 days to allow the adhesive and the grout to fully set before using the space.
216
What should I consider when choosing glass tile for flooring?
2007-12-20 16:00:05
Answer
The first thing to think about is the issue of slip-resistance. Most glass tiles meant for flooring will be specified as such. Ask us about the issues regarding slip-resistance, and let us know where you are thinking of installing glass tile.
217
What''s the best way of cleaning glass tile?
2007-12-20 16:00:31
Answer
Glass tile is a very low-maintenance surface. It is stain-resistant, and can be cleared of everyday household grime with the wipe of a damp cloth. In the case of limestone or calcium build-up, a solution of water and hydrochloric acid will clear tougher materials from the surface of glass tile.
218
How long does glass tile last?
2007-12-20 16:00:58
Answer
Glass tile is a very durable material with few limitations as far as wear. With regular cleaning, your glass tile can last as long as your entire property.
219
How much does one square cover?
2007-12-20 16:03:17
Answer
One square will cover 100 sq. ft. of area when installed at the manufacturer''s maximum recommend exposure.
220
What does the term exposure mean?
2007-12-20 16:03:40
Answer
The term exposure refers to the height of each row or the viewable portion of the shake or shingle once it''s installed.
221
Can I use a different exposure than the manufacturer''s recommended maximum?
2007-12-20 16:04:13
Answer
Exceeding the manufacturer''s recommended maximum exposure may invalidate any available warranty. You may use an exposure that is less, but remember to recalculate your coverage or you will end up short on material. (Please see our coverage tables.)
222
Why would I use shingles instead of shakes?
2007-12-20 16:04:43
Answer
Shingles are used when a person prefers the slimmer profile and shadow line that shingles provide. Shingles are also considered to have a cleaner or more tailored look than shakes
223
Why would I use shakes instead of shingles?
2007-12-20 16:05:05
Answer
Shakes are used when a person prefers the heavier profile and shadow line that shakes provide. Hand-split shakes are considered to have more of a rustic or looser appearance than shingles, while taper-sawn shakes are very close in appearance to shingles but thicker.
224
Why are the pallet-quantity orders only available as a kiln-dried or treated product, but not as a raw or naturally dried product?
2007-12-20 16:05:32
Answer
Pallet orders are typically delivered to a residence or small business where offloading assistance is required. In order for the truck lift to handle the weight of a standard size pallet, they must be dried to a weight of no more than 2500 lbs. The weight of an average raw pallet of cedar is 3200 lbs. Note: Building materials of this kind in these quantities are heavy. Please make a note of the weight information attached to your order and make sure that the required equipment and personnel are available to you in order to receive your order properly.
225
Can purchasing a kiln-dried material save me money on my shipping charges?
2007-12-20 16:05:55
Answer
Yes. Although there is a minimal up charge for a kiln-dried material, it will, in most cases, more than pay for itself. Total shipping charges are calculated by weight and volume of the shipment. A kiln-dried product can easily drop 600 lbs to 800 lbs of water from an average 10-square pallet of cedar.
