General Questions

Vetrazzo is composed of a patented (Patent No. US 7,771,539) proprietary formula that combines recycled glass with a binder of additives, pigments and other recycled materials.

All of the glass used in Vetrazzo is recycled, and it makes up approximately 85% of the final material. Our largest source of glass is neighbourhood curbside recycling programs. Other glass comes from post-industrial usage, windows, drinking glasses, stemware, cars, stained glass, laboratory glass, reclaimed glass from building demolition, and other unusual sources such as broken traffic lights.

Because of the unique nature of the glass used in the production process, every Vetrazzo surface comes with its own history.

If your retailer or fabricator works with a distributor that has Vetrazzo in stock, your fabricator should receive your Vetrazzo within a week. If not, it could take three to four weeks.

Please note that deadlines may also vary depending on the size of your project, the availability of the chosen mix and our current production cycle.

Vetrazzo has always been made in the United States. Vetrazzo is owned by Polycor, and since 2010 it has been manufactured at their installations in Tate, Georgia.

Each Vetrazzo product is unique, there are no two alike. See how they are proudly handmade in the USA, one at a time. This means that your Vetrazzo surface is exclusively yours.

Almost any surfacing requirement can use Vetrazzo. The most popular applications include countertops, vanity tops, bar tops, fireplace surrounds and tub decks, wall cladding, entryways and shower surrounds.

Yes. If you live in a northern climate, see the freezing/thaw section of our technical specifications.

The surface should be wiped clean using a damp cloth. For dried rings or spots, use mild liquid soap or detergent with a damp cloth.

To maintain the finish, apply a marble polish (such as Goddard’s) two or three times a year.

It is recommended resealing the surface every year to keep it like new.

Wipe on the sealant, let it sit for 20 minutes or so and wipe it off. Zero-VOC sealants are also available.

We also recommend applying a coat of marble wax such as Goddard’s Granite and Marble Polish every six months to add an additional protective layer.

For stains:

85% of the surface is glass, which is impervious to stains. However, acids (like red wine, lemon juice, and vinegar) will etch the matrix of the surface if not cleaned up right away. And staining agents (like coffee and tea) will leave a trace if allowed to remain on the surface.

Like aged butcher block, marble, and concrete, signs of use can actually enhance the character of the surface. If you clean messes up quickly, your Vetrazzo will remain pristine. If you are more carefree, you may appreciate the natural patina that develops as you live with and enjoy your Vetrazzo. Dark mixes and those with patina hide the signs of a carefree lifestyle remarkably well.

For chips and cracks:

Vetrazzo is extremely strong and durable. It will withstand years and years of normal use. In the unlikely event of damage, it can be easily repaired by your fabricator.

We have several installations in high-traffic areas.

One of the first installations goes back to 1996 at the Solar Living Center in Hopland, California. Used by several million people over the years, these countertops show no signs whatsoever of wear or structural deterioration.

Our Designer Collection is ideal for this application.

Yes.

However, prolonged heat can weaken the sealant. If you do this often, be sure to reapply sealants more frequently.

Yes, but you’ll very quickly dull your knife, as Vetrazzo is one of the hardest countertop surfaces on the market!