Shirestone is not your typical manufacturer for countertops. The company, under the leadership of Matt Jecker, operates as a hub for builders to become dealers, learning how to physically make the countertops on-site. Jecker began the company designing flooring products, but by a twist of fate, and an opportunity of a lifetime, his focus shifted from flooring to countertops, developing pour-in-place countertops that look like natural stone or slate.
With no end to the possibilities, Shirestone tops “can fit any shape and can be created on top of existing surfaces for remodeling projects.” Unlike most countertops, Shirestone tops are mixed and poured on-site to ensure the best possible result. The tops are durable, lightweight and non-porous, which make them a great alternative to other countertops on the market.
After Shirestone was established by Jecker, he then created “Counterfit Systems, Inc. to provide raw materials and the training for contractors nation-wide so they can create these countertops in their own markets.”
Ben Kava, operations manager for Counterfit Systems, Inc., says the company has dealers in 40-plus states, and is always looking to expand into new markets, such as New Mexico and West Texas. “We continually speak with prospects from around the country and exhibit at various trade shows and of course we are very anxious to find quality artisan/craftsmen in your part of the country who would like to become involved with Shirestone,” Kava says.
To get started, dealers have a minimum start-up order for supplies and tools, in addition to a training session. After that, however, dealers remain independent, setting their own prices and fees. Shirestone is always interested in expanding their network of qualified dealers and installers in all areas of the country. Shirestone also does not charge a franchise fee or require royalties to be paid. “Shirestone provides the training, certifies builders to do their own installations and sells them the raw products direct,” which saves builders weeks, even months, of waiting for fabricated countertops. “If they can set tile, they can learn how to create countertops,” says Jecker.
Recently, Shirestone ranked third on Surface Fabrication magazine’s “Top 25 Reader Requests” for 2006, in addition to being featured at the 2006 International Builders Show in Orlando and selected by HGTV to be one of the featured products included during their nationally-broadcast “Builders’ Show Highlight Special.”
Choosing countertops for any home should be done wisely, says Kava. “Granite pricing can sometimes be confusing and we encourage consumers to compare the final price (as opposed to just the per square-foot quote), as well as the features that Shirestone is providing (custom coloring, different edge profiles, etc.) versus a granite top,” says Kava.
In addition, there is no limit to the look of Shirestone Custom Countertops. Each can be designed to be as unique as you make it. Customized backsplashes for kitchens, outdoor living areas or bar areas are just a few of the ways Shirestone can be used to create a one-of-a-kind space. Another way is in architectural elements added throughout the home, over the hood in a kitchen, in a doorway or at the base of a column could add to the uniqueness. Each project is custom, in color selection as well as design. Objects can be in-laid before the tops are sealed, including crests, decorative tile, logos, leaf imprints, etc.
Shirestone countertops are extremely cutting-edge and are considered “the next big thing” in custom homebuilding.
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