Hi. I don't have an exact answer for you, but I am going to suggest calling the National Wood Flooring Association. They have a toll free number that you can call to ask technical questions (1-800-422-4556). I just called them last week and I thought it was an extremely helpful conversation. Their website is woodfloors.org but I have had a lot of trouble with it never opening or being VERY slow. I hope they can help you out.

The cardboard has a give and has that plastic satin coating that has a slight texture but is silky also so it is nice looking and is so light that the samples can be moved around easily. But I would have preferred the samples to be on the material that would be used for the counter. I'll take pictures as soon as I can but first I have a few more major deadlines to complete tomorrow. It takes me awhile to download the pictures, label them and send in a link. The samples look like they would be easy to clean with the finish on them.

We had a false start Saturday, but 3/4 done right now and super happy! So glad ABB is almost a memory. I will post a shot without grout when they leave and another in a few days with the grout. Going with mapai white still and will use the keracaulk as advised. Thank you again. Anyone who is considering this tile - we have no regrets. It would go well with greens, grays, whites, blacks, and tans. It wouldn't interfere with a busy countertop (IMHO) and has enough variation to give some interest to our essentially solid black counter and white cabinets. A small number of tiles have imperfections, but they are the ones being cut for ends and corners, so not really wasted much.

Thanks Mike! I think that may have been it. :-)