is extremely important.” It’s also important that the proper TYPE of sealer be applied, so become familiar with sealer options and consult with the stone supplier or sealer manufacturer to be sure the product will enhance – and not harm – the stone. Porous and soft stone need special considerations During the actual installation process, consider the stone char- acteristics before selecting setting materials. “For example, there are some stones that react to water and installing them with a regular thin- set will cause the stone to curl,” Chiu said. “To prevent this, an epoxy needs to be used. In addi- tion, some stones have reinforced backings, such as resin or mesh backings. Therefore, any stone with these types of backings needs to be installed with epoxy. Exterior applications sometimes require special setting materials. Natural Stone Institute Announces 2018 Stone Industry Education Series The Natural Stone Institute and Stone World magazine recently announced its schedule for the 2018 Stone Industry Education Series. This year, Stone Summits will be held in ten cities across the United States. The ten Stone Summits scheduled for 2018 will be facilitated by a team of experienced industry leaders, includ- ing GK Naquin (Stone Interiors), Tony Malisani (Malisani, Inc.), Duane Naquin (Stone Interiors), and Eric Tryon (Premier Surfaces).Newthisyear,eachofthefacili- tators will present a fully unique program on four different topics: Knowing Your Business, Analyzing Shop Performance, Stone Shop Administration, and the 12 Business Axioms. Participants who register before February 1, 2017 will receive 20% off their registration. For more informa- tion, please visit www.stoneindustrye- ducation.com. The 2018 Stone Industry Education Series is as follows: February 21 Texas Stone Summit: Know Your Business Arizona Tile Austin, TX March 22 Florida Stone Summit: Analyzing Shop Performance M S International Deerfield Beach, FL April 26 California Stone Summit: Analyzing Shop Performance M S International San Diego, CA May 24 South Carolina Stone Summit: Stone Shop Administration Pacific Shore Stones Charleston, SC STONE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Both versatile and enthralling, this lime- stone offering from Daltile brings warmth and refinement to all types of spaces. 72 TileLetter | February 2018