supplier, the installing contractor still has an obligation to verify the existence of suitable bond. There are no industry standards for the application of mesh. Many dif- ferent alternatives have been intro- duced to the market over the past several years, including a full fiber- glass coating, which based on anec- dotal reports, appears to have had a greater risk of bond failure than mesh. Additionally, the use of epoxy/ resin with a sand aggregate has been introduced to the market. This sand backing may help to increase the mechanical bond to the setting material, but does not necessarily act to reinforce the stone, which is the ultimate goal of applying the back- ing. Travertines with epoxy backing, but no mesh, have also been found on the market. As is the case with all stones with epoxy backing, you must determine the suitable setting mate- rial before proceeding. Communication concerning fiberglass mesh or resin backed stones presents a challenge to the industry. The timing of when the con- tractor is informed of the rein- forcement on the stone product is critical. If a contractor learns of the requirements to either use epoxy- based setting material or remove the reinforcement after contracts have been written, the opportunity to adjust the bid price to reflect the increased costs has passed. When working on a project uti- STONE ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WHERE GROWING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR PURPOSE. Joe Lundgren is a globally recognized product and marketing expert in the ceramic and stone worldwide markets. His specialty is Business Development, Product Management, and Marketing. Joe has developed his expertise in strategic planning, new product development, and marketing strategy for North America during his 27 year career at Dal-Tile, a subsidiary of Mohawk Industries. Joe has extensive experience in multiple sales channels including distribution and Home Centers. Additionally, Joe represents the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) for its testing laboratories, which has Joe at the epicenter of the industry for all new initiatives. Please contact Joe Lundgren for a free consultation proposal! +1.214.641.7773 JOSEPHLUNDGRENCONSULTING.COM JLC_1.2_Horiz_Ad_1710.indd 1 9/15/17 9:24 AM 84 TileLetter | December 2017