NATURAL STONE NEWS
Vol. IV, No. I Logo JANUARY 2010

Washington Metro Area's First Marble Institute of America Accredited Natural Stone Fabricator


A note from our President...

 Damaris' Picture             

"I would like to personally wish all of our valued clients and friends a very
Happy New Year.  Thank you for your continued support and for making our progress possible. Wishing you a year filled with good health, happiness and success!"

 
Sincerely,
 
Mete' Yilmaz, A.I.A.
President/Marblex Design International, Inc

MARBLEX NEWS

Please join us in welcoming back Damaris de Jesus!  Damaris' Picture             

Some of you may remember Damaris who previously worked for Marblex from 1999-2005 in scheduling, she then moved to Ecuador to get married where she has been living and continued to work for Marbex off site as we needed her expertise. Damaris is now back at Marblex as Office Manager and assistant to the President. We are very happy and fortunate to have her back!

INDUSTRY NEWS

How to choose a Qualified Stone Contractor

Questions to Ask
 
1. Consult the MIA membership list for qualified natural stone professionals who have been approved for membership based on industry skill and commitment to service.
2. Ask family, friends, and neighbors for referrals and call local stone/tile suppliers for recommendations.
3. After you have identified several contractors, schedule appointments for estimates. Most will be free, but confirm in advance.
4. During your estimate, describe the "look" you'd like to achieve and ask questions.
5. Evaluate your quotes, request references, and check them. Ask to see examples of other projects recently completed by the contractor.
6. Request proof of liability and workers 'compensation insurance.
7. Select a contractor you believe is skilled and trustworthy, and with whom you feel comfortable. Make sure everything you and your contractor agree to is included in your contract. Don't sign anything until you understand and agree with all the terms.
8. Plan your project carefully, and then keep the lines of communication open with your contractor throughout the project. Keep a job file of all important documentation.
9. Ask your contractor to estimate a realistic time frame for the job and plan accordingly.
10. Arrange for periodic inspections with your contractor to ensure that the work is being performed to achieve the desired end result.
 

*In addition to the MIA membership list of qualified natural stone professionals, also request a list of accredited natural stone fabricators in your area.
 

*For more information on Accredited Natural Stone Fabricators from the Marble Institute of America please go to http://www.marble-institute.com/accreditation/index.cfm

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
Commonwealth-Robinson Bathroom
Private Residence, Vienna, VA.  
 A recent project by
Commonwealth Home Remodelers & Marblex
 
Featured as  "Outstanding" in Washington Spaces Best of Baths 2008
 
"Commonwealth Home Remodelers occupies a unique position in the remodeling industry, combining the talents of an innovative design staff with the craftsmanship of an experienced construction team. Owned by architect Susan C. Pierce, AIA, and engineer Kelvin Pierce, Commonwealth specializes in unique and creative design and construction that exceeds homeowners' expectations."
 
"CommonWealth Home Remodelers is proud to work with Marblex on all of our projects because of the remarkable service from beginning to end. From the moment our client enters the showroom to make a selection, all the way to the finished product, they are always delighted with their entire experience with Marblex."..Melissa Chernick, K & B Designer
 
For more information on Commonwealth Home Remodelers please visit their website at commonwealthhome.com 
 
If you would like your company featured in our next "Client Spotlight" please contact cris@marblexinc.com 
NEW ARRIVAL
  Bardiglio Novalato Marble
Amazon Tiger
   
This beautiful exotic Black colored stone from Brazil has bursts of warm, golden veining. It's movement and flow is quite breathtaking and inviting. We recommend seeing this beauty in person! Please feel free to stop by anytime.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
The MARBLEX corporate video is now online for you to watch.
Please click this link to learn more about MARBLEX's corporate capabilities.

Natural Stone, Naturally.TM                                                                       Established 1987

2926 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax, VA  22031  |  t 703.698.5595  |  f 703.698.9580