A major new training video that provides a comprehensive overview of how to measure, prepare the surface and install natural stone with the thin-set method has been produced by the Marble Institute of America (MIA) as part of its continuing educational video series. This video was sponsored by Walker Zanger, one of the industry’s most prestigious companies.

 

Called “Basics of Natural Stone Flooring Installation: Thin-Set Method,” the new program will be unveiled at Surfaces in Las Vegas, February 1-3, 2006. A major focus of the program is proper substrate preparation, without which there is a high probability of failure. It also covers measuring, preparing a grid, installing the stone tile and applying grout.

 

“We are pleased to be working with the Marble Institute of America on its expanding program to provide quality video training programming for the natural stone industry,” said Jonathan Zanger, president of Walker Zanger. “We believe that when there is consistency of quality throughout the marketplace, it eventually benefits the entire industry. The only way to achieve it is through continuing education.”

 

Two industry veterans collaborated with MIA’s video production team to create the program. They included Ralph Williamson, Ceramic Tile Consulting of Arizona, Inc. of Phoenix, Arizona, a leading consultant on stone floor installations, and Kevin Padden, KM Padden, of Pinal County, Arizona.

 

Williamson built several examples of correct substrate models which are included in the program. Both Williamson and Padden are featured in sound bites during the production.