This month’s Rock Star, Rafael Mancilla, is truly a craftsman in every sense of the word. Oftentimes, the quality of stonework comes down to an impeccable installation. Rafael is one of the best and consistently does great installations every day of the week. His attention to detail is second to none and he’s about as hard working as he is nice to be around.
Kim Montano, our project manager for Enterprise Sales, had this to say about Rafael: “Rafael is a very talented installer. He is reliable, always on time and always gets his HD/Costco/Lowes paperwork signed and turned in daily. He treats everyone with respect and is great with customers. He is an incredibly hard worker. He does all he can to make sure installations are completed before leaving the job site. When there are issues in the field, he will do whatever it takes to get the job done, including working late, helping other crews and taking on out of town/overnight projects. He is always a delight to work with!”
Congratulations “Rafa” on this well-deserved recognition!
The Importance of Proper Installation for Natural Stone Projects
There’s really nothing quite like the classic charm of natural stone! We want your project to shine, whether you’re sprucing up your interior spaces or enhancing the outdoors. But here’s the bottom line: the key to a successful natural stone project—be it stunning countertops or solid retaining walls—really comes down to one important element: the right installation. This is particularly important in places like New Mexico, where the special climate and environmental factors call for a careful approach during the installation process.
Choosing the Right Stone Supplier
Natural stone, known for its diverse textures, colors, and patterns, has been essential in construction for centuries. Its longevity and low maintenance make it especially useful in New Mexico’s extreme climate. However, these advantages depend on proper installation. A knowledgeable stone supplier will help you pick the perfect type of stone for your project! They’ll consider important things like where the stone comes from, its unique qualities, and how well it suits our local climate.
The Importance of Professional Installation
- Precision and Expertise: Professional installers add a special touch of precision and know-how that truly makes all the difference. They make sure everything is cut and fitted just righ, whether you’re putting in a stunning stacked stone feature wall or a gorgeous granite countertop.
- Substrate Preparation: A surface that isn’t properly prepared can lead to some headaches down the road, like uneven settling, cracks, and moisture problems. That’s why it’s so important to have professional installers on your team—they make sure the substrate is level, stable, and treated to support the stone’s weight.
- Climate Considerations: New Mexico’s climate brings some unique challenges that are important to keep in mind during installation. The bright, intense sunlight can make certain stones expand, while plummeting evening temperatures can cause them to contract. Luckily, with the right installation techniques—like using flexible adhesives and suitable sealants—experienced installers can easily manage these temperature changes.
- Moisture Management: Keeping moisture in check is super important for avoiding problems like mold and stone wear over time. Professional installers have the know-how to set up great drainage systems and moisture barriers, especially when it comes to outdoor projects.
Dangers of Poor Natural Stone Installation
Installing natural stone correctly is important for keeping it looking gorgeous and working effectively. We take installation seriously knowing that what seem like minor mistakes can lead to very costly problems down the road.
Signs of Poor Installation
- Uneven Surfaces: Visible bumps, dips, or uneven tiles can indicate that the stone was not laid correctly. This not only affects the look, but can also pose a tripping hazard, particularly in flooring applications.
- Lippage: When the edges of adjacent tiles are not level, this creates a height difference between them. Lippage can make a floor look unprofessional and uneven, and it can cause real headaches in cleaning (who wants to vacuum over uneven tile?) and maintenance.
- Cracked or Loose Tiles: Cracks or breaks in the tiles can happen if the subfloor isn’t prepared properly. This is a recipe for disaster as moisture can seep into the cracks.
- Staining and Discoloration: Unusual stains or color changes in the stone can be caused by improper sealing. When the stone is exposed to moisture and chemicals, it can be permanently damaged and require replacement.
Natural Stone Projects with Rocky Mountain Stone
Getting the installation just right is very important for protecting your investment in natural stone. By teaming up with a trusted stone supplier like Rocky Mountain Stone and opting for professional installation services, you can confidently make sure their natural stone projects will shine for years to come, whether you’re a homeowner or builder in New Mexico. Proper installation not only strengthens the structure but also keeps the beauty intact. Whether you have your heart set on a stylish granite countertop, a sturdy flagstone patio, or a stunning stacked stone feature, going for professional installation will keep your project looking pristine for years to come.