Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

A supplier is supplying different kind of marble and granite to my site  to be fixed as thresholds for doors and stair case treads and risers,
i am not sure which Marble and granite he is supplying to site ,means  country of origin , strength of marble /granite,and other properties.
i don't want to write any silly letter to him. please tell me what should i ask him,what kind of tests and certificates ,so that i can ensure quality to be good.

ANSWER: Hi Naseer, I am assuming that the marble and granite was ordered per a specification in the project spec manual.  It is not being silly to verify that the order was placed according to the specs.  You then have the right to inspect and accept or reject the material when it arrives to make sure that the quality is acceptable.   I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com

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QUESTION: is there any specific tests for the granite or marbles  quality?

Answer
Hi Nassar, if you are testing for specificity then the tests would be related to what you ordered: verification of origin, color, finish, polish, the type of things that don't really require a specialist or specialized equipment.  The verification of origin will oftentime be the most important..specific mines, stone types and stone qualities vary with regions.  Visual inpspection is done with regard to uniformity, polish, straightness and breakage.  Usually there is a certain amount factored in for shipping breakage on large orders, often up to 20%.  Regarding density and other structural stone inspections, you can contact an engineering testing lab and have them do certain tests regarding density, hardness and even uniformity if requested.  To me, as a construction manager, with large shipments of stone, marble and tile, I like to personally look at it as regards to packaging..was it protected properly? Was it handled properly by the shipping firm?  Is there evident damge to the container or the shipping restraints within the container.  On smaller orders I will inspect every piece and file a claim with the supplier as soon as possible..That's about all I can tell you about it.. I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com