GMR Renovations Inc.

Bringing Decorative Concrete to New York Kitchens and Baths

Juliet Farmer,ConcreteNetwork.Com Columnist

GMR Renovations Inc., located in Staten Island, New York, is the brainchild of George Mandryk. He is also the owner, and he has roots in concrete because he started out as a mason. "The idea came to my mind to [be able to] do work seven days a week, in the shop, and sell what I made," Mandryk says of his decision to start his own company, GMR Renovations Inc.

The company manufactures polished concrete countertops, back-splashes, and concrete tabletops in a variety of colors and acid stains. They also pour concrete, as well as specialize in the grinding polishing of marble and granite floors and acid staining new and existing concrete floors. Essentially, they offer complete kitchen and bath renovations.

"We provide the highest quality polished concrete countertops possible and stand behind them," says Mandryk. "Our mission is 100 percent satisfaction for every customer."

Though Mandryk knew he wanted to specialize in kitchen and bath installations and renovations, he also knew it was going to be a lot of work. "Concrete is not as simple as it's thought to be," he explains. "[You] have to consider the time, weight and moisture...You color [it], polish [it], distribute color, and after taking [it] out of the mold, it needs to be treated gently. Even though it's a hard surface, in the beginning it's sensitive."

Mandryk had a trial by fire doing his first concrete countertop for a homeowner—the piece consisted of a countertop with a sink, as well as a flowing step up to a bar. Because it was all one piece, Mandryk laughs that he nearly broke his back delivering the countertop. "Now I simplify things," Mandryk says. "I developed an aggregate that solves the weight problem."

Because he's been in the renovation business for 20 years, Mandryk says he's seen a lot of concrete countertops made by contractors who "don't have a clue." After just one look at Mandryk's portfolio, it's clear he's clued in to what his clients, mostly those in the metro New York and New Jersey areas, want.

As for what people are asking for, Mandryk says the trends are as diverse as the inhabitants of New York City. "Some like simple concrete with a smooth top or a little exposed aggregate, and some are asking for countertops that are recessed a bit to catch water," he says. "For one countertop, I'm adding exposed polished glass...Some want me to match their floor to their fireplace surround."

Whatever they're asking for, there are generally two ways people are flocking to GMR Renovations, through their website, and through the other equally important form of communication in the industry, word of mouth.

When Mandryk reflects on the appeal of decorative concrete, he says, "Done properly, it's an attractive piece. It's not as boring as granite. People want to have something different...With concrete you can do shapes and inlays."

"There's a lot to do with it," Mandryk adds. "It's almost an art." And one look at a kitchen or bath he has renovated, and it's clear that Mandryk is definitely an artist.

GMR Renovations, Inc.
George Mandryk
252 Watchogue Rd.
Staten Island, NY 10314
(718) 983-6072 Office
(718) 983-6072 FAX
(646) 879-3839 CELL
Send Mail Now - Click Here
www.gmrrenovations.com

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