Flooring Magazine August/September 2019

A u g u s t / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 19

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Locking mechanism

Contents

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vol 37 no 4

News

Editor’s Note

4

Celebrating 100 years with Altro

Feature 24

Preparation, installation and aftercare

Icons 38

Graeme Beaumont

Welcome to the August / September 2019 issue of Flooring Magazine. Inside you will find our feature on preparation, installation and after care where we highlight some of the latest products available in today’s market as well as take a look at the various machines and equipment leading the industry in innovation, economy and safety.

This issue’s Icon is Graeme Beaumont who began his career at the Tascot Carpet Mill in the 1970’s after completing high school and has lived and breathed the flooring industry ever since.

Software 48

The strength of technology

Training 54

Kevmor professional product development and training event

Safety

Flooring Magazine is now on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Please take a look, we would love to hear your feedback.

Overseas News

Feel free to contact me directly, regarding any industry relevant news or events, by email at – michelle.cammiade@ elitepublishing.com.au

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Until next time…enjoy.

58

The importance of quality tactiles for the vision impaired

New technology on display at FloorTek 2019

Michelle Cammiade Editor

Flooring Magazine is now on: @flooringmagazineaustralia

Front Cover

@flooringmagazine

Altro APAC Pty Ltd www.asf.com.au

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Flooring August/September 2019

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News

4

Celebrating 100 years with Altro

T

he story begins in 1919 when a small group of individuals had an idea.

That idea has grown into a global company with over 900 employees and one idea has become many. From inventing safety flooring and developing a hygienic walls system, to creating the world’s first adhesive-free safety floor.

While the world in 1919 couldn’t seem more different from today’s, the excitement at embracing and developing new technologies and ways of working with customers is exactly the same as back then. Add to this day they remain a family business, with family values and believe the customers are the reason why the business is celebrating their centenary.

Altro have been at the forefront of innovation for 100 years. Today, working closely with architects, end customers, engineers, designers and contractors around the world, their insight and expertise help them transform everyday spaces into environments that can improve the wellbeing of everyone that uses them.

Health and Safety Altro's design and manufacturing processes consider every aspect of every solution.

From their safety and

Flooring August/September 2019

hygiene specifications to their sustainability credentials, it is ensured that the spaces which are worked with function exactly how people need them to, giving customers the outcomes they want and complete confidence in their investment.

Altro have designed a fully integrated system to make cleaning and maintenance easier for you. The technologies used and the properties of Altro products meet the strictest requirements for hygiene.

Their system features surfaces that are watertight and fully sealed around fixtures and fittings. This system means the installation will maintain the strictest levels of hygiene and infection control for the lifetime of the products.

Sustainability Altro's commitment to sustainability has also enabled them to become the first

manufacturer to recycle traditional safety flooring in-house. Altro flooring even contains recycled particulates including post-consumer recycled glass, which would otherwise be destined for landfill. Since 2014 the company has achieved 0% waste-tolandfill.

Altro products are manufactured using the highest quality materials. They are also 100% recyclable pre-installation, which means any off-cuts can be recycled. Safety floors contain up to 20% recycled content, and resin products contain up to 30% recycled content.

Altro safety floors don't contain any substances like formaldehyde, or any heavy metals like lead, cadmium, mercury or hexavalent chromium. Altro were the first manufacturer to produce phthalate free safety floors and continue to lead the market in making vinyl floors that are free from phthalate plasticisers. 6

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News They have invested in, and installed, the world's first safety flooring recycling system.

It offers a closed loop recycling process and can recycle over 500 tonnes of factory waste PVC every year.

Innovation Altro have been the inventors of many 'firsts' in the flooring industry. In 1947, Altro invented the world's first safety flooring, the first hygienic wall protection in over 30 years and in 2009 launched the world's first adhesive-free safety floor.

Altro XpressLay is the first safety floor that is 100% recyclable post-consumer. What that means is, after it has been installed it can be rolled up and reused elsewhere and at the end of its life, it can then be recycled.

6 Products such as the customisable walling product, Altro Whiterock Digiclad, and the wood-look flooring, Altro Wood Safety Collection, can help to implement this strategy. Green building programs like Green Star offer points for projects that take advantage of these types of design elements.

So many choices Altro floor and wall systems offer a huge variety in finish and colour to create the exact mood or style required for both customers and staff. With a selection of up to 40 colours throughout all ranges, Altro products spoil you with choice. From bright and bold to calming and natural, there is a perfect match for everyone.

Using Science to promote a healthy state of wellbeing The biophilia hypothesis suggests that there is an instinctive bond between human beings and nature. Studies have shown that exposure to nature and natural images can help with the healing process, reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and improve mood.

Performance Guaranteed Combined slip testing for safety flooring is performed to get accurate and reliable evidence on the safety of our products and to reassure customers that they are in safe hands. All Altro products come with a product guarantee for peace of mind.

Flooring August/September 2019

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iQ Surface HOMOGENEOUS VINYL

Previewed at Milan Design Week, the iQ Surface range is created for designers. The result of a collaboration between Tarkett and Note Design Studio, the range gives equal weighting to function, form and expression of colour.

Taking homogeneous vinyl flooring to new heights the iQ Surface range can be used across floors, walls and furniture opening up greater possibilities to play.

WWW.TARKETT.COM.AU

Created for Designers

News

8

FAV 2019 Awards Night

O

n Saturday the 10th of August 2019 the Floorcovering Association of Victoria Inc. held their 4th annual Awards Night.

The winners included:

This year’s awards night was not only a celebration of the work completed by the flooring industry, but also a reflection on Alistair ‘Butch’ Butcher who tragically lost his life earlier this year.

Omnifloor - Trades Hall Building Refurbishment (Office Fit-Out),

This year was a difficult year to find clear winners as a record number of submissions from across all categories made this a challenging process and lead to a very special night.

Omnifloor - Victorian Racing Club Flemington (Hospitality) and Health & Hospitality flooring – Princess Theatre

Categories included Polished Concrete for the first time, with Rock Up Group taking out the inaugural award for delivering Pro Grind Australia’s MPC Decorative Exposure High Gloss inside a new building at Minaret College in Officer.

Floor 91 - Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital Kew (Health Care)

Embleton - Walsh Luxury Apartments South Yarra (Residential)

JJ Carpets - Mt Lilydale Mercy College (Education).

This standard and volume of this year’s entrants across all categories was outstanding and demonstrates how prestigious winning a FAV Flooring Award can be. The FAV would like to thank all of the entrants for their commitment to outstanding work in the flooring industry.

The FAV would also like to thank their sponsors, Nexus Adhesive, Airlay, MJS Floorcoverings, Ardex, QEP, Signature Floor Concepts, Dunlop Flooring, Bostik, Airstep, Polyfloor, Interface, Deflecta, Carpet Institute, and Victoria Carpets. Without the commitment of both the members during the year and the sponsors on the night the awards would not happen and the FAV look forward to again hosting the 2020 Awards next year.

Flooring August/September 2019

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HYBRID

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The best of both worlds

Combining the best attributes of laminate and vinyl to create a superior performance product Backed by a Lifetime Residential Warranty for your customers peace-of-mind 0.5mm Commercial Grade wear layer suitable for high traffic areas BCA compliant making it ideal for multi-level dwellings to high-rise developments With a 100% waterproof guarantee this floor is suitable for bathrooms and laundries Strong resistance to dents from objects falling onto it

VIC/TAS: 1800 803 545 NSW: 1800 802 926 QLD/NT/WA/SA: 1800 806 375

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Canvas HYB007

News

10

New offering of EU quality vinyl flooring bound for Australasia

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new range of Polish-made residential and commercial vinyl flooring will soon be available in Australia and New Zealand.

Lentex, a seasoned European flooring manufacturer with 100 years of history and one of the most modern plants in Europe, makes the bold strategic move to grow their business in Australasia. The decision to enter new markets in Australia and New Zealand has not been taken lightly by Lentex, the Polish manufacturer, who over the years has established a strong presence in their domestic market and throughout all continental Europe as well as in the UK, the Middle East and Africa.

The geopolitical and economic landscape is changing and the EU is undergoing serious transformations due to Brexit and the new trade policies coming from the

Flooring August/September 2019

US. Experienced and successful companies such as Lentex, with their newly expanded production capacity and state of the art technologies, are keen to become a recognisable brand and a significant player in new markets.

Lentex’s Export Manager, Bartosz Leskpo, is very confident that what Lentex has to offer will be well received in Australia and New Zealand: “Our PVC flooring products match or exceed the specifications and quality of the product ranges of the better known European brands already present down-under. We are coming to Australia and New Zealand with the latest technologies, quality and a price tag that will certainly be attractive to Australian flooring distributors.”

Lentex has chosen to appoint the Adelaidebased Gopex team to be their agents in Australia and New Zealand. The Gopex team

have over 50 years of combined expertise in international trade and flooring sales.

Gosia Hill, former Austrade Senior Trade Commissioner, Gopex International Business Development Director said: “We are ready to respond to buyer enquiries and to engage in all negotiations with distributors anywhere within Australia and New Zealand.”

Gopex International Sales Director, Peter Wyra said: “Discussions are already in progress to create several exciting collaborations to make the Lentex range of domestic and commercial flooring products available to Australian retailers through reliable and trusted distribution channels.

We are excited about Lentex products, their high standards for comfort, aesthetics and fashion as well as insulation, noise reduction and energy saving properties. We will also be involved in the process of providing advice to Lentex designers who are already working on the collection of styles and colours inspired by Australian native timbers. We are using new vinyl flooring technology to print and emboss designs to meet the needs of customers in Australia and New Zealand”.

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News

12

Get Pumped – Taking Screed to the next level

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ustralian company, ScreedPro is on track to radically transform the floor screeding industry through the Australia-wide roll-out of its unique automatic screed pump truck technology.

Next generation technology built on 20 years of experience ScreedPro WA General Manager, Kevin Andersen provided some background on the Company: “For 20 years ScreedPro has been supplying on-site batch-mixed tiling screed to WA tilers and builders using our in-house developed fleet of screed mixing trucks.”

• slow, manual mixing of screed by hand or screed mixers • wheel-barrowing and manual handling of screed • reliance on materials hoists and other on-site infrastructure • on-site storage of sand and pallets of cement • inconsistent screed mixing and quality control issues resulting in screed failures • silica dust generation and inhalation during screed mixing • low adoption rate of engineered screeds and use of non-Australian standard screeds • high cost of screeding • lack of warranty for screeds

“When our pump trucks arrive at site, we simply roll out the hoses, program the recipe into the computer and press START; the computer-controlled system then mixes screed to the exact recipe and then pumps it to the area being screeded.”

“All the installation crew need to do is turn up with the tools. We take care of the rest and issue daily certification with our fully warrantied screeds.”

The Tilers love it because we get the job done much faster and save all the time, cost and effort of sourcing raw materials and mixing 14 manually and barrowing screed.

“Over the last 2 years we have been working with a team of Australian and International engineers and technology providers to develop a bespoke, fully automatic, next generation screed mixing and pumping system designed specifically for the Australian market and road regulations.”

“Our Pump Trucks are a fully self-contained, sealed system for the automatic mixing and pumping of large volumes of 15 – 50 mpa screed up to 180m horizontally or 30 floors vertically.”

Solving a range od industry challenges with one solution ScreedPro NSW General Manager, Les Stockdale (formerly National Business Development Manager for Tarkett Australia) spoke about the benefits of the new technology: “Building on our Company’s experience in WA we saw an opportunity to solve a range of problems in the floor screeding industry including:

Flooring August/September 2019

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Tough enough for the rough & tumble of everyday life.

Ask about our exciting new range: www.preferencefloors.com.au

by

News

14 “The beauty of our system is that they are trucks and can go anywhere. Even now, if we have a project in a different state, we can simply drive there. For example, we recently drove the truck to Melbourne for a 13 cubic meter engineered screed job. We drove down from Sydney on a Sunday, did the job on Monday and were back in Sydney on an apartment project by 7am Tuesday.”

The Builders love it because we require no on-site storage or use of the hoist and rapidly speed up screeding operations saving time on the overall schedule and provide a fully warranted product.

The Safety Officers love it because we eliminate high-risk manual handling and barrowing of screed and importantly, we fully eliminate silica dust generation in the mixing of screeds.

One of the great advantages of ScreedPro’s system is that they dramatically reduce the cost of high-performance +25 mpa engineered screeds for vinyl, carpet, timber, epoxy, artificial turf and other resilient floor coverings.

To date, engineered screeds have only been available in small format 20kg bags which are not always cost effective, especially for large projects and expose screeders to silica dust and heavy manual labour when breaking open bags and mixing the screed.

ScreedPro, through its long-standing Australia-wide relationship with Mapei, mixes and pumps the Mapei Topcem screed, a 30+ mpa fast drying screed at a price that is competitive with traditional sand-cement screeds.

ScreedPro WA General Manager, Kevin Andersen noted, “Over the last 3 years in

Flooring August/September 2019

particular, we have been at the forefront of a pivot towards engineered screeds and it was a real focus of our new system that we are positioned for this change in the market.”

“We have supplied engineered screeds to projects all over Australia such as hospitals, aged care, shopping centres and underfloor heating projects.”

“Engineered Screeds now account for approximately 50% of all screed we supply and as we continue to bring the cost of these products down builders, architects and tilers embrace the significant benefits of these products, therefore we see the trend only continuing.”

Rolling out across Australia NSW General Manager Les Stockdale is leading the roll-out of the fleet across Australia.

Commercial installations with Duraplank Duraplank is Kenbrock’s cost effective solution for both commercial and residential installations. Most recently Duraplank was installed by Bridge Carpet Court into the Mitre 10 store in Murray Bridge, South Australia.

Below are a few comments from Steven Plummer, the owner of Bridge Carpet Court.

“It was fantastic to install the Kenbrock Duraplank in the aisles and open areas including the BBW space in Mitre 10 Murray Bridge. The customer was thrilled with the installation and the natural look and feel of the Duraplank by Kenbrock. We found the Duraplank easy to install and we look forward to using this product more frequently in commercial applications.”

“We have already completed construction of the first 4 pump trucks with a total of 6 scheduled before Christmas 2019 and are initially introducing them to the market in WA and NSW.” “We are currently servicing Victoria projects out of our Sydney depot however and are planning to open our Melbourne depot later in 2019.

Brisbane and Adelaide depots are scheduled for 2020 opening when we have an additional 6 pump trucks scheduled for construction.”

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PRIMETEX

LOFTEX

NEW INTERIOR DESIGNER

NEW LOFTEX NO GAPS

RECYCLED BACKING

WATERPROOF

gerflor.com.au

PRIMETEX

News

16 Imagine Floors by Airstep’s complete product suite is showcased along with downloadable technical data for each range including; brochures, cleaning and maintenance instructions, installation instructions, technical datasheets and warranty information.

Customers can also look up local stockists and narrow their search down to the product range they are after.

Imagine Floors by Airstep Airstep is pleased to announce it has a new look and name for its flooring division – Imagine Floors by Airstep – a fresh rebrand of Airstep Flooring. With a shift and refocus of their target market and product offering Airstep have created a brand which inspires customers to 'Imagine the Possibilities’ for their next project.

Imagine Floors by Airstep has a range of stylish options to complete retail customers designs including; Laminate, Vinyl, Hybrid and Timber in a variety of classic and contemporary hues, textures and styles. All products include

Floorworld opens new store in South Australia Floorworld’s first store in South Australia is now open in the Gepps HQ. Leanne and the team at Gepps Cross Floorworld have over 20 years’ experience in the floor covering industry and are excited about Floorworld’s

Flooring August/September 2019

features to satisfy the needs of busy households, including households with pets and commercial environments.

The final link, to complete the rebrand, was to create a new website. After months of fine tuning and tweaking a new website has been created and can be viewed at www. imaginefloors.com.au.

The website has been designed with the new look brand as the inspiration and takes on a clean fresh style with ease-of-navigation.

“can do attitude, delivering what has been promised and being smart in the rapidly growing digital space”.

Works have already begun on additional features which are planned for phase two of the website. There will be a retailer login section where retailers can order flooring online as well as an online training portal to equip retailers with all the knowledge about Airstep floors. An architect and specifier section is also being designed, so stay tuned.

As a leading supplier of flooring solutions for commercial and residential use across Australia, Imagine Floors by Airstep pride themselves on excellence in customer service. So, whether a customer is a lover of elegance and luxury, a value-conscious buyer, or anything in between, Imagine Floors by Airstep looks forward to supporting retail stores by helping customers select their next flooring solution, showcase their chosen project and take it to the next level.

suit both the residential and commercial markets.

Gepps Cross Floorworld specialises in selling and installing an extensive range of floor coverings including; carpet, carpet tiles, hybrid, vinyl plank, laminate and timber flooring.

Floorworld’s strong preferred supplier base which includes products from Australia’s biggest brands in floor coverings provides a strong, consistent core range of products that

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See colour differently A palette to redefine your vision, Colour Edit will change the way you see, experience and use colour.

Amtico makes it possible.

For support and samples visit amtico.com or contact our specialist team: Wayne Schofield Sales Manager NSW +61 (0) 499 091 049 Megan Bilecki Sales Manager SA/WA +61 (0) 400 995 497

Mike Hammond Sales Manager VIC/TAS +61 (0) 428 600 076 Mark Taylor Sales Director +61 (0) 477 708 418

Product Update

18

New Season New Look – Carpet Court reveals hottest new trends

T

his winter, interiors with a sophisticated, urban edge will come to the fore, according to Carpet Court trend forecasters. Two standout looks are Retro, which features moody blues, sumptuous textiles and lashings of gold; and Brooklyn – a streamlined, modern take on the industrial trend we’ve been loving for a while.

“The Retro look is elegant and urbane, while Brooklyn has more of a New York loft vibe,” says Heather Nette King, Carpet Court’s style ambassador. “But both looks put a focus on colour, texture and layering so they’re perfect for creating that welcoming feel we crave in the cooler months.”

The Retro look is a nod to old-style luxury, but in a beautifully streamlined way that isn’t fussy or overly embellished, say Carpet Court trend forecasters. “Think minimalist glam,” says Heather. “Classic pieces such as tailored sofas and chairs upholstered in luxurious velvets, set against a neutral background to showcase their sleek lines and sexy curves. The palette is deliberately kept simple – tonal blues, paired with lowkey neutrals and highlights of gold.

“Simplicity is the key to making this look work – you’ll notice a distinct lack of pattern,” says Heather. “Seek out classic pieces with clean lines and give them breathing space to shine. Then ramp up the glam factor with accessories such as side tables and mirrors in gold and copper.”

Balance out the vibrant blues and gleaming metallics with a neutral base; “a light-tone grey carpet such as Carpet Court’s Luxe Palette in Achillea will provide contrast and make a room feel bright and open. Or, for a richer neutral base, consider a smoky grey carpet such as Carpet Court’s Ocean Road textured wool loop pile carpet in Lorne,” says Heather. “Timber-look flooring would also look stunning – for this look, steer towards blonde and light tones, such as Carpet Court’s Pryzm Hybrid flooring in Flooded Gum or Stockmans Ridge Premium in Spotted Gum.” With its raw timbers and exposed detailing, the Brooklyn look is an update on the wonderfully enduring industrial trend, say Carpet Court forecasters. “Think of it as ‘modern industrial’ – gone are the heavy wrought iron bases and rough-hewn timbers

the industrial look was known for. Instead the pieces are leaner, more lightweight, and can be layered with natural textures for a fresher, contemporary vibe,” says Heather.

“As it isn’t as ‘hard-core’ industrial, it’s now much easier to create this look - it’ll work just as well in a contemporary space as it will in an older style home, and if you’re not lucky enough to have an exposed brick wall, this look will still work really well set against a white or black painted wall.”

“Flooring really sets the mood in a room, so think about the feel you want to create,” says Heather. “These two trends are perfect for a relaxed living room, so consider laying a plush or chunky loop pile carpet that you can sink your toes into. Or, if you have timber floors, soften them with a beautiful, textured rug’. Remember, the floor is the first thing you touch when you enter a room – so you want it to feel fantastic.

Flooring August/September 2019

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Product Update

20

The latest Texline collection by Gerflor Wide plank timber designs pair with geometrics in the latest Texline Collection

by Gerflor. The new collection features a striking range of colours and textures combined with realistic natural wood looks alongside designer takes on authentic mosaic and parquetry.

Three exciting new offers enhance the enduring appeal of this seamless, wall to wall designer flooring. A stunning Paris White design in sophisticated colours has been added to the Texline Essence story.

A new quality, Loftex delivers unbeatable value with 2.5mm thickness, .30mm wear

Introducing iQ Surface iQ Surface was created by Tarkett to unlock creativity in design and architecture and magnify the potential of one of its most iconic product families, the iQ Homogeneous vinyl. For this range, Swedish design studio Note was invited to collaborate with Tarkett and develop colour stories that combine cohesively according to hue, style and narrative. Each colourway of iQ Surface carries Tarkett’s trademark of durability, sustainable quality and ease of installation. A limitless landscape of expressive colour that

Flooring August/September 2019

layer and T wear rating. Choose from 10 designs offering tile, parquetry and timber looks. A 12-year guarantee and R10 slip rating add to the extensive list of features packed into this value for money range.

Primetex Accent represents unbeatable value, dressed up in on-trend designs, including the standout navy intrigue of the Bacara Bleu design. Primetex offers the warmth and underfoot comfort of Texline but in a thinner 2mm quality. Make no mistake though, thinner does not mean less resilient. Primetex is incredibly durable and will not tear. The reinforced glass fibre interlayer maintains dimensional stability, even under load.

empowers the designer as much as it does the end user.

The five colourways of iQ Surface each feature floor and wall designs allowing designers to create a seamless join between surfaces. The unique chip design can be used on furniture extending the possibilities of the range by providing another level of flexibility.

The new 2019/20 Gerflor Texline range is now being rolled out in stores across Australia.

Texline fast facts • Loose lay 4m wide rolls • Warm, quiet and comfortable underfoot • Sophisticated surface treatments for easy maintenance • Waterproof textile eco backing • 100% recyclable • Excellent acoustic properties

From left: Gerflor Texline Essence Paris White adds new design appeal to the original loose lay flooring.

Opera Grey is just one of 10 designs in the all new, value packed Loftex range Primetex Accent Bacara Bleu captures the design appeal of the stylish seamless range.

is the driver, using Note’s signature finesse with tone and hue to give each theme a distinctive colour family and surface technique. Combined with the ways in which the welding rods (which join adjacent pieces of vinyl together) have become more of an artistic medium, this new collection enables a new field of use for Homogeneous vinyl surfaces in design and architecture.

iQ Surface was unveiled in April at Milan Design Week in ‘Formations’ and launched in Australia at FRONT 2019, challenging the traditional perceptions of Homogeneous vinyl. Formations demonstrated this to the world with unique installations portraying the flexibility of iQ Surface. Colour curation

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FLOORWORLD’S MEMBERS SAY IT BEST... Store members of Floorworld benefit from the support and guidance of experienced people in the industry.

Our philosophy is to improve your business by providing a support mechanism for small business with our proven model of operational success.

I

n 2006 my husband, Larry and I opened an independent flooring store in Ulladulla NSW. Unfortunately we found it difficult to access products from the larger leading flooring manufacturers in Australia which in turn stalled the growth within our business.

After recommendations from flooring representatives and extensive research on our behalf we decided to join the Floorworld family. Right from the word go the assistance with store setup and on-going support has been fantastic.

Not only have we been able to access products, Floorworld has also provided us with continual staff training on product knowledge and product branding.

We are also supported with marketing for our store, online advertising and social media.

As a result, we have grown from a small husband and wife team to a company with five full time employees, one casual employee, subcontractors and the opportunity for four local youths to complete their flooring apprenticeships with us.

Cindy and Larry Peters – Ulladulla Floorworld

Bunbury has been operating in the south west of Western Australia for 2.5 years. As current owners of Ftheloorworld sole Floorworld franchise in WA, myself and business partner Jared Spiers have received outstanding support from the Floorworld management team.

Having owned a franchise with another major flooring group for over 10 years and having worked with another national group, we have found the Floorworld business model and structure very efficient and professional.

The group’s head office offers excellent marketing opportunities, especially through social media and internet awareness.

Being a smaller group allows for more versatility in decision making with regards to new products and latest innovation while still maintaining a large number of exclusive ranges with all major manufacturers.

Floorworld also offers the services of human resources, legal and training/development specialists which is reassuring.

With ongoing guidance from Floorworld we have maintained our budget targets despite a quiet WA economy in recent years.

Chris Black & Jared Spiers – Bunbury Floorworld Intrigued by the possibility of joining a retail group with tangible benefits then Floorworld may be the perfect solution for you. If you are interested in the Floorworld model please contact Bob Crotty (03) 9761 5235 or info@floorworld.com.au for a confidential discussion.

At Floorworld, we offer more than just flooring.

Product Update SEBO Lights-up the dullest of carpets SEBO vacuums have always evolved naturally over time with tried and tested engineering that is constantly being improved upon with every model revision.

The all-new SEBO X7 Automatic upright is no exception. SEBO have reworked their iconic design into something just as efficient as its predecessor the X4, but the new SEBO X7 uses less electricity with the all new 890w motor and is quieter than previous SEBO models.

22 The X7 is equipped with an LED headlamp for enhance under furniture vacuuming. The floor surface is lit-up with remarkable clarity so no debris is left behind.

The Computer Control System optimises performance, ensuring that the brush is always at the correct height for ease of use and long carpet life. However, for a deeper clean, for example with stubborn pet hair, just press the performance boost button for extra pile lifting power.

The machines can go flat for reaching under furniture and together with an easy to use integrated hose and wand system give all round cleaning ability. Other innovative and practical features include cassette style brush roller removal, sealed bag for hygienic debris disposal and indicator warning lights for ‘full bag’ or ‘check brush’.

The SEBO X7 received the IER Awards for Best Floorcare Product of the Year in 2018 and the Flooring Innovation Award Winner for 2018. Demonstrating that cabled and bagged SEBO machines provide quality and reliable all-round cleaning for the home.

Recommend the SEBO X7 Boost Upright Vacuum to your customers for the correct care of their flooring investment.

The SEBO X7 is perfect for plush pile, heavyweight, thick pile carpets.

EcoSet MS Flooring Adhesive EcoSet is a high performance, one component MS Polymer adhesive for surface bonding all types of timber flooring including parquetry, engineered, laminated and solid timber. It can also be used for concrete/cementitious substrates, smoothing compounds, acoustic matting, plywood and battens.

ASTME96 at only 1.5mm thick, EcoSet has a built-in moisture barrier.

Acoustic properties – Tested in Australia

by Renzo Tonin & Associates EcoSet meets the National Construction Code (NCC) 2019 and the City of Sydney Council’s Development Control Plan (DCP) 2012.

Highly flexible – EcoSet is flexible allowing the natural movement of the floor without breaking the adhesion.

Features and benefits of EcoSet Fast curing – EcoSet can take foot traffic after 6-8 hours and solid floors can be sanded after 48 hours.

Great beading stability – Using a Floor Essentials B3 trowel over a flat surface will allow the perfect beading stability to ensure your floor will adhere.

No Carcinogens – EcoSet has NO ingredients that cause cancer or respiratory ailments.

Easy clean up – EcoSet wipes off both the finished floor and your skin easily. Just rub lightly with some Methylated Spirits.

Suitable for under floor heating – Simply switch off under floor heating 48 hours before laying the floor and leave off for 48 hours after completing the floor. The adhesive will not be affected by the heating system.

A message for the Director of EcoSet: “I am shocked that in the market we still use polyurethane adhesives to glue down timber flooring. The problem with these polyurethanes is that they are full of carcinogens which we know are cancer causing ingredients.”

“What Evagroup has done is to introduce a product that does not have any carcinogens or isocyanates, has a built-in moisture barrier, first class acoustic properties, is easily cleaned and priced to compete with some of the cheapest polyurethanes on the market.”

Built-in moisture barrier – Tested to

Flooring August/September 2019

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AUSTRALIAN STOCK COLLECTION

NEW

spheraÂŽessence Sphera essence is the latest addition to the Forbo homogeneous vinyl collection.

Sphera essence presents a modern take on a classic look adding depth and contrast with transparent chips that link to a granite-stone visual. Made in a Forbo purpose-built production facility utilising the latest technology essence delivers on looks and performance. Essence includes an advanced PUR, is 100% Phthalate free, recyclable and Green Tag certified. Essence meets the requirements for Best Practice PVC. A perfect all-rounder for education, health and commercial projects.

Visit www.forbo-flooring.com.au/sphera to find out more. creating better environments

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Feature

Preparation, Installation and Aftercare

A

s Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.�

The same principle applies to concrete surface and substrate preparation as it does in many other aspects of life.

Preparation of concrete prior to installing floor coverings including carpets, vinyl, timber, tiles or laminate is just as important as the finished product. It is easy to underestimate the importance of correct surface preparation before installing a new floor, but improper preparation can cause failure in your coating or floor covering which in turn comes back to you as a defect or high cost rectification.

In the initial stage of preparation all of what is on the surface needs to be removed.

This is any type of floor covering, adhesives, coatings, membranes, or surface coatings with a view of getting a good key on your concrete substrate for the following process.

It is possible to mitigate the risk of project failure, adhesive not bonding or moisture issues by starting the project right with concrete and floor surface preparation which in some cases is specified by the company who manufactures the product you lay.

Preparation The most common method for preparation to apply a floor covering is using a concrete floor grinder. In some applications where a heavier profile is required a shot blaster, scarifier or surface profiler may be used like a bush hammer in applications like thicker coating projects.

Flooring August/September 2019

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Feature

25 The advantage of concrete floor grinding is that the profile can be heavy textured or finished smoother depending on the tooling used. The profile of a grinder is not typically going to get you the finish a shot blaster or scarifier will, however this process offers you a more diverse range of tooling and attachments for other projects moving forward.

Concrete floor grinding makes use of diamond tooling with a wide range of grit levels to which the initial grind is made. The general rule is the lower the grit, the more aggressive the grind. For instance, 16 or 20 grit diamonds will be more aggressive and help grind down faster than a 40, 60 or 80 grit diamond tool or wheel.

The bond, shape and number of segments to your diamond/s also play a part in the success and speed of your preparation project. All Preparation Equipment has

helpful guides online to assist in choosing the right tool for your brand of machine.

Other tooling including PCD’s are used for heavier adhesive, under tile glue removal, coatings, waterproofing membranes and any thicker product that may be sticky and clog up traditional diamond tools. Using either a diamond grinding shoe, plug, plate, or wheel system the PCD’s offered nowadays provide faster, cleaner and more effective removal of commercial and residential glues, adhesives, coatings and membranes.

Offering more than a sanding / buffing machine, grinders such as Schwamborn Concrete Floor Grinders provide a more powerful performance to flatten high spots in a concrete floor. Schwamborn machines are German built, engineered and designed and have been for over 80 years.

Feature

26 Flatten your floor

Their innovation has turned traditional single head, single speed grinders like any 250mm into a stand up edge grinding machine. The ability of the head allows you to turn it to the left or to the right without it interfering with the wheel base.

Where highs and lows are over the floor area, a screed, bulk fill or floor level may be required using floor levelling products such as; Mapei, Ardex, Sika, BASF or Bostik. Making use of mixing equipment like the Portamix Mega Hippo Mixer, levelling products can be mixed and poured direct to the floor efficiently. The process of using a mechanical mixing station versus and hand held mixer and bucket are a lot more efficient and ensure the product is mixed correctly from start to finish.

The advantage of standing up to perform these works also saves the operator and helps to prevent sore knees or aching back in the floor prep process.

These applications also use other tools like the Sticky Level Pegs, Pin Level Rakes, Magic flexible trowels and Flexible spiked shoes to walk over the wet floor levelling product.

These types of floor levelling products ensure a flat, consistent floor for products like vinyl where there is a smaller tolerance and require better floor flatness.

Depending on the floor covering being installed it is important to consider and assess things like cost of installation, ease of installation and durability of the floor covering. Other thing to consider include; what is the maintenance / cleaning process for it, does the design fit into the style of the finished product (colour / texture etc), stain resistance, wear resistance, the thickness of the product, will it be exposed to direct sunlight and is it UV stable.

Story by Naomi Archer, All Preparation Equipment

Working dustless Concrete floor grinders are successfully used dust free with the use of a powerful vacuum / dust extraction system. Brands like Dustcontrol SE specialise in this field and offer a range of single phase and three phase units to connect depending on the size of your grinding system.

Hand held angle grinders connect to vacuums like the DC2900L, DC3900L and the DC400L Tromb Vac providing effective suction and control of airborne and surface dusting while you grind. The larger the grinding width of your machine the more efficient your vac needs to be.

Keeping in mind, no two jobs or machines are the same so it is important to assess what your machine needs based on size, tooling and application.

Processes like acid etching, degreasing, and auto scrubbing are not adequate to achieve a surface profile on majority of cases which is why mechanical cleaning is the number 1 method for effective concrete surface preparation.

Flooring August/September 2019

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Wagner Meters Introduces the New Rapid RH L6 System with Total Reader

W

agner Meters introduces the Rapid RH L6 system, an enhanced version of the already popular Rapid RH system, which consolidates many concrete moisture testing features into a simpler process while featuring advanced technology that makes reporting faster, easier, and more reliable, even in concrete with higher relative humidity (RH).

“We listen to our customers,” says Jason Spangler, Flooring Division Manager for Wagner Meters. “They told us they needed more responsiveness in high RH and a more rugged design. We’ve delivered, along with the biggest advance in technology ever in the Rapid RH system. And just to change it up a little, we finally said goodbye to orange and made everything green!”

The new L6 Smart Sensor incorporates an enhanced design capable of providing concrete moisture readings up to 100% RH.

Flooring August/September 2019

In addition, each L6 sensor includes an onboard memory device capable of storing 512 time-stamped measurements. Whenever a measurement is made, the sensor will store the reading inside a FIFO (first in – first out) circular buffer that holds 512 readings. If measurements exceed 512, the oldest measurement is replaced with the newest. Since the time-stamped readings are recorded and saved with each sensor, it is possible to come back years later, retrieve an embedded sensor, and recover the historical data.

When transferring sensor data to the newly updated DataMaster L6 app on your smart device, the number of readings that can be stored is only limited by the storage capacity of your smart device. To further ensure that your data remains intact, the Rapid RH L6 system also features a protective cap with a butyl rubber seal for maximum protection from dust and moisture.

The new all-in-one Total Reader builds upon the foundation of rugged reliability and accuracy of the Rapid RH Smart Reader and Easy Reader, combining their features into a single, easy-to-use device. The Total Reader instantly reads and displays RH and temperature data from the Smart Sensors.

When you choose to use the electronic reporting functionality, the Total Reader will transmit, via Bluetooth, to Wagner’s free DataMaster L6 recording and reporting app.

The DataMaster L6 app helps you manage and report your concrete RH testing data inside a simple, user-friendly interface that runs on both Android and iOS devices. It allows the user to input specific information like job name, address and hole depth.

The DataMaster L6 app can store pictures of blueprints that can be used to create a graphical overlay of the moisture sensor test site locations. Moisture readings can then be saved to the specified locations on the picture allowing for clearer visual representation of the testing report. With the DataMaster L6 app and the complete L6 Smart Sensor system, each reading is positively tied to a serial numbered specific sensor installed in the concrete, to minimize the chance that you’ll mix up or lose data. The DataMaster L6 app also generates reports in PDF format that can be sent to the client directly from your device and stored or transferred to other devices.

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Technical solutions from BBS

W

herever two floor covering surfaces meet the Access and Mobility Standard (AS-1428) requires a smooth transition, without trip or other access hazards.

This gets tricky with floor coverings of different heights, for example where ceramic tile steps down to carpet in an open plan room.

Here the installer has two options: either to raise up one of the floor coverings, (lifting the carpet to meet the tile height), or to install an aluminium ramp over the top of the floor covering join.

None of this was such an issue ‘back in the day’, because floor coverings themselves were simpler and therefore easier to install.

In those times we tended to live in single story houses with stretch carpet throughout, except for the kitchens and bathrooms that had vinyl on the floor.

Here the carpet and vinyl politely met in a narrow strip in the doorways making the transition between these two regular surfaces much simpler. An aluminium trim would cover the carpet / vinyl join, and this easy

solution ensured the home owner could shuffle between these two floor coverings in relative safety.

Unfortunately, todays floor coverings are more complex, and our Standards for mobility and access are more exacting. This means new solutions are required to smooth the way.

Our floor covering options have greatly increased, such that few new homes are furnished with stretch carpet and wet areas vinyl. Stone, porcelain and ceramic tile, floating floors, (some with real wood surfaces and others with laminate), stick down planks, polished concrete and varnished timbers, composite vinyl tiles, and hybrid forms of all these floor finishes are widely used, and most of these coverings come in different heights and thicknesses.

Today it is more common to have four or more different types of floor covering butting up against each other in different parts of the home. Added to this, with more openplan living it is also common to have these floor coverings coming together in greater lengths within living spaces, rather than just meeting at the doorway.

The challenge then, for the modern installer, is to provide a safe, smooth transition between floor coverings of different heights and often over longer lengths.

To add to this complexity, we are now living in different types of buildings, with more multi-story low-rise, high-rise apartments and converted warehouse spaces. These different dwellings force the installer to cope with varying sub-floor conditions and levels.

So, with all this change to the flooring environment, how can the installer provide a seamless transition between different floor coverings at an economic price?

One solution is an ‘under-the-surface’ MDF ramp which can raise one of the floor coverings to match the height of the other.

This simple and cheap solution levels the surfaces in the path of travel eliminating the need for a ‘step’ between the floor coverings.

It also removes the need for large and often unsightly trims covering the join.

A variety of sizes are available in hidden MDF ramps with thicknesses from 5mm to 12mm and in widths from 100mm to 300mm.

Flooring August/September 2019

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31 Typically, these ramps are made from HMR (high moisture resistant) grade MDF which provides a durable moisture resistant installation for the life of the floor covering.

The better quality MDF ramps are also sustainably made, from timber fibre that is sourced in FSC managed forests, so the environment is not damaged in any way during their production.

These sizes enable the installer to match most floor covering heights and to transition between them at a gentle angle.

They can save time too because they are quick to measure, cut and install and unlike concrete screeds they don’t have a drying time before you can install over the top of them.

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32

A good surface is key

N

o matter if it is a domestic, commercial or industrial project you should start by having a structurally sound and flat floor. Nothing looks worse than walking into a fresh new fit out and seeing an uneven floor due to unacceptable floor preparation. Or having to pull up a newly installed floor due to moisture or subfloor issues. Customers today demand perfection, and suppliers offer a range of systems for all types of situations, so there is no excuse for handing over a substandard floor.

Australian market The rapid urbanisation here in Australia is one of the most prominent megatrends.

It is characterised by greater densification, more high-rise buildings, larger building complexes, and a growing demand for infrastructure services. At the same time, we have new flooring products/trends and AS/ NZS standards to follow, meaning the floor preparation sector has to keep up and even sometimes take the lead.

Sika When Cement Flooring Manager, John Jennings joined Sika in 2015, Sika were not really known for floor preparation here in Australia. His team set about the implementation of a program to fully develop a high-performance product offering. Sika’s formulas that are proven and highly regarded

in Europe and North America, have been adapted and manufactured here in Australia to specifically suit the local climate and conditions.

Sika AU has grown to the point where they now have 11 manufacturing facilities locally and recently commissioned their most technologically advanced powder plant in Sydney. This continued growth means more local jobs and as a result Sika now have over 400 employees across Australia. The Sika Group is one of the largest construction material suppliers with 24,000 employees and 274 manufacturing facilities in 101 countries across the globe.

Below: NSW Powder Plant

Above: Sikafloor Level Top Strategy Creativity, innovation, customer focus and research are dynamic components of Sika’s long-term success and future growth.

Multiple large-scale product creation projects are cultivated simultaneously around the globe, resulting not only in effective and original products for customers, but also unique opportunities for knowledge sharing among research and development teams in different countries. New products and systems will be the key to support the flooring and construction industry into the future.

Flooring August/September 2019

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33

The Terminator by Polivac Polivac International is recognised as one of Australia’s leading manufacturers of commercial cleaning equipment and a major exporter of advanced cleaning technology worldwide. The Polivac range includes electric, gas and battery-powered models suitable for a wide range of cleaning environments and applications.

Polivac has decades of experience in carpet extraction technology, with the Terminator (220 PSI) and the Terminator PLUS (600 PSI), specifically designed for smaller/ larger areas and upholstery. Terminator PLUS’s powerful 800psi pump helps you get more work done in less time. Offering brute

power in a compact sized body giving you all the power and performance of larger carpet extractors with a compact body size for maximum manoeuvrability.

recovery. Operators can select both between 5m/10m solution and vacuum hose and a 12" 2-jet stainless steel wand to help them handle any job.

Fluid levels of recovery tank and solution tank on all Polivac carpet machines are now controlled by electronically operated switch systems giving the user peace of mind when using the Terminator.

The Terminator is portable and fits into the back of most station wagons allowing users to get into tight spaces for fast, efficient cleaning without sacrificing power. Ideal for any scale carpet cleaning and flood

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34

Innovative installation with Mapei product systems

T

he preparation and installation of the wall and floor coverings in the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s hospital was one of the most innovative projects that Mapei have had the pleasure of being involved in. The preparation included the installation of moisture vapour barriers, levelling compounds, screeds and waterproofing membranes.

With over 80% of the concrete floors needing to be levelled, the properly prepared substrates were firstly rolled with Primer MF and Mapeproof 1K Turbo moisture vapour barriers. Then they were primed using Mapei’s Eco Prim T Plus, a solvent-free acrylic primer with very low VOC emissions.

Followed by the installation of UC Leveller an easy to install levelling compound and Ultraplan an ultra-fast hardening levelling compound used for levelling and removing differences in thickness on new or existing substrates and preparing them to receive any kind of floor covering where an excellent resistance to loads and traffic is required.

Concrete substrates that only required small patching repairs were rectified using Planiprep SC a fibre-reinforced skim coating compound and Nivorapid an ultra-fast setting, thixotropic, cementitious levelling compound for horizontal and vertical surfaces. Some parts of the flooring then had a lead sheet installed to act as a barrier between x-ray rooms and offices. These areas were levelled using Nivorapid mixed with Latex Plus to improve the deformability and bond strength of the levelling mortar.

Latexplan Trade a two-part levelling and smoothing compound, that can handle light foot traffic after 1 ½ - 2 hours and is ready to install floorcoverings after 12 hours, was applied over the Mapegum WPS waterproofing membrane in the wet areas.

Contractors applied Mapei moisture vapour barriers to ensure that the floorcoverings were protected and alleviating any potential moisture issues arising from the concrete substrate.

Primer MF and Mapeproof 1K Turbo moisture vapour barriers were applied over various levels to ensure that no moisture migration occurred. Primer MF is recommended for concrete slabs and screeds that emit high moisture (up to 100% RH) and high pH; Mapeproof 1K Turbo is recommended for concrete slabs and screeds that emit high moisture (up to 95% RH) and high pH before the installation of floorcoverings sensitive to humidity such as timber, rubber or vinyl.

The floors and walls in the bathrooms and wet areas were waterproofed using Mapeflex PU 45 FT, a one-component, rapid-hardening, paintable, thixotropic polyurethane sealant and adhesive and Mapegum WPS, a fast-drying flexible liquid waterproofing membrane. Once the second coat of Mapegum WPS was dry these areas were primed with a coat of undiluted Eco Prim T Plus and smoothed with Planiprep SC in preparation to install the vinyl floorcoverings.

Flooring August/September 2019

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35 common floor and wall coverings in interior dry areas. Over 27 800 m² of wall vinyl was installed using Mapei’s Rollcoll adhesive used for interior installations of all types of vinyl coverings and ideal for vertical wall installations.

Materials installed ranged from floor and wall vinyl, carpet tiles and matting as well as perfectly colour- matched caulking and expansion joints. Every wall and floor had curved feature vinyl works, predominantly playful circles. The 8 Level installation took place over a 6-month period, with 85% of the work completed over 18 weeks. At the peak of

install, the site was populated by 22 flooring contractors.

Over 60 000 m² of Tarkett floor vinyl was installed in the public areas using Ultrabond Eco V4 SP, a special adhesive for installing PVC and rubber flooring in commercial projects as well as a universal adhesive for all

Carpet tiles were installed using Mapei’s Ultrabond Eco Tack a solvent-free acrylic resin-based adhesive dispersed in water.

When dry the adhesive film remains tacky so that self-laying textile tiles may be bonded in place and then easily removed and/or replaced.

All wet area vinyl was installed using Mapei’s Adesilex G19 a two-component epoxypolyurethane all-purpose adhesive to install rubber, PVC and linoleum floorcoverings that is resistant to moisture and extreme conditions.

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36

Low noise drive developed

I

n the past, floor coverings could be removed using hand-held scrapers or smaller stripper machines but because of improved adhesives, this is now often only possible using specialist machines.

Olaf Janser, Managing Director of Janser, explains that specialised floor coverings like sports flooring or floor coverings which have been fitted using modern adhesive systems can be very difficult to remove manually.

For example, if sports flooring consists of 3,2 mm thick linoleum, a textile backing which has been glued down with a neoprene contact adhesive and a 14 mm sound insulation covering you need a machine to support its removal.

The core of the Junior is the construction of the motor and hydraulic drive with which the front tool can also be controlled.

Olaf Janser explains that the setting of its angle is vital for successful removal. The angle determines how well the blade can reach under the covering and how much adhesive can be removed with it. If the base plate is lowered to its maximum, the blade can reach further under the floor covering which is especially suited for the removal of elastic coverings.

The removal and breaking of ceramic tiles, on the other hand, needs a steeper angle setting. The advantage of the Junior is that its base angle and inclination angle, as well as the positioning of the front plate,

can be adjusted via levers near the seat during operation.

The manufacturer explains that there is added value for the user since the two wheels can be operated independently which means that the entire construction is forward leaning. The weight doesn´t sit on the four wheels but on the front tool which generates a high stripping performance.

To drive the ride on forward, the two levers are gently pushed forward and the speed is increased by pushing the levers even further forward. The two wheels are driven by two separate motors. Separate wheel steering allows for a zero-turn radius which facilitates operation in narrow spaces or near edges.

So-called walk-behind machines have limited performance because of their small dimensions and are therefore only useful for smaller surfaces.

Alternatively, large ride on machines are used which cannot be employed in spaces with difficult access or in narrow spaces because of their size and weight (1000 to 2000 kg). This also means that these machines cannot be transported in lifts which normally only allow weights of up to 800 kg.

In order to fill the gap between these two stripper models, Janser has developed the Junior Ride-On which, thanks to its reduced weight of only 420 kg and its silent and efficient hydraulic engine, can be used in difficult working conditions like smaller apartments or hospitals. With its slim measurements of 1300 mm x 600 mm x 1000 mm the Junior can also easily be transported in smaller vehicles.

Flooring August/September 2019

The advantage of the Junior is that its base angle and inclination angle, as well as the positioning of the front plate, can be adjusted via levers near the seat during operation. www.flooringmagazine.com.au

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38

Graeme Beaumont:

Still Feeling It Story by Philip Ashley

G

raeme Beaumont was born in Launceston, Tasmania to parents of British descent. Graeme hasn’t done the genealogy thing yet, but he reckons second or third generation. In 1965 and only eight years of age, Graeme moved with his parents and two younger sisters to sunny Queensland, arriving when he was nine in 1966, the result of an extended stop at Stanwell Park just South of Sydney. They bought a business that included a petrol station; hardware store; newsagency and grocery store in Oxenford just north of the Gold Coast. In those days it was a rural area, mostly dairy farms. But after only five years his parents grew homesick and returned to Tasmania, settling in Devonport on the North Coast.

Graeme Beaumont Lives and breathes flooring, he’s worked in the industry since he left school. A ‘young’ 62-year old, Graeme isn’t going anywhere soon, planning to stay around for at least another ten years with his friend Jarod Hainey.

Flooring August/September 2019

Graeme attended Reece High School, finishing in 1973 when he did what most young people did at the time. He went out and got a job. There was a lot of industry in Tasmania, especially around the Northern end including some large pulp mills and a large carpet manufacturer in Devonport.

Graeme’s father was an electrician and would have liked Graeme to have followed in his footsteps, but it wasn’t what Graeme wanted. He decided to get a job at the Tascot Carpet Mill in Devonport, and this was to set him off on a career, still unfinished, that he was to live and breathe for the next 45 years.

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40

Roberts adhesives offer improved performance for the installer

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40

basketball starting out in high school, but at five foot eight decided it probably wasn’t going to be the best move he was going to make. Instead he took up refereeing, traveling around the country to officiate at mostly junior basketball tournaments. In one memorable match around 1980 he was to ref a young Andrew Gaze who he said, “Was pretty good even at sixteen.”

Clockwise (from top): Ready for work 1959; Basketball referee panel 1980; Graeme Beaumont, Philip Moffat and Philip Muscovich, Flotex factory UK

he transferred to the shipping and despatch department. It was there that the young Graeme started to learn about the carpet business. He was the go-between the factory and the customers all round Australia.

He says, “In those days everyone who wanted a job got one in a few weeks, there was so much work around. I had ten years at Tascot, starting as a junior cleaning clerk.”

He’d get phone calls, “When is my carpet coming off the machines?” and “How long until my delivery arrives in Brisbane?” What he was really learning was dealing with people, dealing with the industry.

One of Graeme’s jobs was to make sure the raw materials were available to the winding and spooling machines. After a few years

Flooring August/September 2019

Along the way Graeme learnt to enjoy a beer and chase young women. He played

Graeme has fond memories of Tascot and every time he flies into either Alice Springs or Darwin airports, he still admires the expanses of Tascot carpets still there to this day. He said, “I’m not sure modern carpet would fare that well.” One distinct memory Graeme had was when the then-Premier of Tasmania Robin Gray walked unannounced into the showroom one day to look at carpet for his ministerial offices. Graeme said, “Quite an experience for a young man.”

Readers will remember Gray’s campaign to build the Franklin Dam that aroused protests from environmentalists, led by Dr Bob Brown. The company closed several years ago but the building remains. The local council has re-zoned the land to residential, but someone wants to convert it to a potato processing factory. 42

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Icons In 1984 and after ten good years learning the ropes, Graeme moved to Queensland to take up a position with Carpets Galore, but they folded only a few months after he started. Graeme found himself without a job, so he called in a favour from David Thom, a Tascot agent. David got Graeme a job with Kelwin Carpets and Graeme found himself back on the Gold Coast. He said, “As a young man where else would you want to be?” It was his first full-time job in sales where he started out in retail residential before moving to commercial, Kelwin’s main business.

Some fine people Graeme met at Kelwin were Jeff Cameron and Bill Markham who both helped shape Graeme’s career.

Below (and right): Egypt trip in 2001

42 hospital and 10,000 square metres into Queensland Rail passenger carriages. He was awarded the ‘Chairman’s Award’ two years in a row and was actually the first salesperson ever to receive it.

Thirteen years at Karndean holds many fond memories for Graeme. He remembers the sales conferences and the ‘fine dining’ on the front steps of the venues. He recalls many moments with great people such as Graham Caldwell; Peter Wood, now based in USA; Ivan Pannone and Mike Walker, the founder of Karndean. Mike was based in the UK and Graeme recalls, “He liked me for some reason, probably because of my sales figures. Anyway, Mike presented me with the Chairman’s Award. He said to me once, ‘When nothing else matters, only the numbers matter.’

Think about it.”

Graeme also recalls some of the more solemn

events of his career, like the overseas trip with customers to England where they arrived on the day of Lady Diana’s funeral, “A sobering experience” said Graeme. Another trip in 2001 found them in Cairo “The day people started flying aircraft into skyscrapers.” You can imagine the affect this had on all of the group when they had to return home by air.

Even ‘characters’ like Ken Sparks and Ray Knight, both now deceased, were far less than their normal effervescent selves at the time.

Graeme left Karndean in 2008 and took up a position at Gerflor, another learning experience for 18 months before getting a phone call out of the blue from a Karndean colleague Ivan Pannone about going to QEP. Graeme took Ivan up on his offer and spent seven years there as sales manager for NT; QLD; NSW and Tasmania. Recently in August 2016 Graeme took up his current position with Inspired Floor Coverings, a labour of love he says he will do until his friends Claudia and Jarod Hainey, the owners of Inspired, are fully established. 44

In 1994 and after another ten-year stint with a good company, Graeme found himself married with two boys and looking for a change. After eighteen months in Brisbane contracting, buying and selling commercial floor coverings he took on a role with Karndean where he worked with Flooring magazine’s very first ICON, Graham Caldwell.

One of Karndean’s products was Flotex and Graeme recalls putting 15,000 square metres of this into the Logan Hospital in Brisbane; 12,000 square metres into the Ipswich

Flooring August/September 2019

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44 cleaner at Tascot; or the guy cutting the carpet in the warehouse at Kelwin; I treat everyone as I want to be treated and you get that back in kind.” He admits though, that not everyone in the flooring industry is his friend, “Occasionally you have to say no,” he says.

Left: Karndean Sales Conference Below: Chairmans Award presented by Mike Walker

“I was always prepared to have a go, have some fun along the way and enjoy the company of the people I worked with.”

He says, “In all my years of working with and managing people I’ve never met someone quite like Jarod. His work ethic is phenomenal.” Graeme doesn’t see himself so much working for Jarod, rather as working with him and his partner Claudia.

“There’s no corporate B.S. here at Inspired, we run on our wits and our experiences that have served us well in the past” he says.

Graeme remembers a ‘Product Selection Meeting’ at the back of Jarod’s BT50 Ute in Sydney.

“The samples we asked for on a visit to Domotex Shanghai had arrived and we both wanted to decide which ones we liked. Well

Flooring August/September 2019

as the rain started, we quickly made the decision and that range is now our Best Seller.”

He’s known Jarod for ten years now, since his days with QEP and although Graeme admits he’s a little more conservative than Jarod, he says the decision to come across to Inspired was “A no-brainer, we hit it off right from day-one.

At Inspired Floorcoverings, we don’t have a huge range, but what we do have, we deep stock; both our Carpet Tile ranges and LVT ranges. This puts us in a position to supply today, when events like the Floods in Townsville earlier this year occur.

We were able to despatch the same day, 6,000m2 Carpet Tiles for urgent replacement of School Classrooms,” he recalls.

Graeme has much respect for many people he’s had the pleasure to work with. These include Bernt Genssen, Tascot’s production manager; Mike Dunn from MK Floors; Jack Andersen, CEO of Andersen’s Carpets and Bob Perrett, founder of of PR Floors. Graeme said, “I never talk down to anyone; not the

Graeme still travels a lot for business and remarkedly, he also likes to travel for pleasure. He now has three ‘children’, his two eldest boys, now 31 and 23 years of age, and a daughter age 20 and they’ll often travel together for a holiday. He says, “Salespeople are always time-poor so I try and spend as much time with family as I can.” His other interests are football and cricket. Of himself he said, “I was always prepared to have a go, have some fun along the way and enjoy the company of the people I worked with. This may be a young person’s business but I’m still feeling it.”

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Retailer of the Month

46

Having Fun on the way

Story by Philip Ashley

J

ason Martin has just ‘ticked over five years’ at Ultimate Flooring Xtra in Rockhampton, Queensland. During that time, he’s manufactured a steady customer base, built on providing the very best experience for each of their customers.

Starting out with just himself and Bernice, a long-time colleague, the business now employs ten people and continues to grow every year. Jason has a knack for success and while there has been a bit of ‘luck’ along the way, he’s worked hard all his life and always looks to try something different.

there and left the business, taking a wellearned break while his wife Anna continued teaching.

But his phone kept on ringing with enquiries about tiles, something Jason was very wellknown for in the area, so he decided to look around for something else. One of his goals was to continue servicing his many clients with tiles and build on this success and he found himself talking to Flooring Xtra as a

franchisee. He says, “I felt comfortable with them, that they were going to let us run the business the way we wanted to; they weren’t going to impose any strict guidelines.” And so, with a silent partner, Jason converted an automotive shop to a flooring store and opened up a whole new world of flooring in the carpet, vinyl and soft floor covering market.

Jason admits that it wasn’t the best time to start up a new flooring business in Rockhampton. The other retailers in the town had a good grip on the local market from both a customer and supply point of view but Bernice and Jason worked long hours to establish themselves as a quality supplier, producing “Massive growth in a tough market.” A big boost to their early days was severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia; a powerful tropical cyclone that made landfall at peak strength over central Queensland, near Shoalwater Bay in February 2015. Marcia caused A$750 million worth of damage.

Jason said, “It was a double-edged sword.

We felt for the people whose homes were damaged, but people needed to get on with their lives and we were in a good position to get the flooring jobs done.” Jason also gave something back to the community, helping a local junior soccer club financially to get their facilities back on track, something he continues to this day, assisting a wide range of NRL and AFL sporting clubs and charities

Below: North Rockhampton Nursing Home installation

Jason started out as a 21-year old delivering for Concept Tiles, a job he describes as hard, physical work. After a few years he moved into the warehouse, first as a storeman, then warehouse manager. He followed that with a move to the showroom as a sales consultant, then sales supervisor and later as sales manager. He then bought into the company as a shareholder until about six years ago he decided there was no where else for him to go

Flooring August/September 2019

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Retailer of the Month

47

Ultimate Flooring Xtra, Rockhampton like the cancer council the business supports.

However, business was still tough. Jason was still the new guy and while he may not have been on equal terms, he still had to compete to get their fair share of the market.

One advantage Jason had was that Concept Tiles had shared a showroom with Andersen Carpets for a while, so he had a bit of an insight into the carpet trade. Starting out with basic residential properties, something he was comfortable with; Jason ventured into larger projects such as the Rockhampton Base Hospital, aged care facilities and a nine-storey high-rise they worked on together with an interior designer, a project he is particularly proud of. Jason and his team now take on any project, but he admits “We’ve always more to do. There’s been a lot of building companies go into administration over the last few years.

The housing industry is supported by the local mining industry, but things have become

more positive since the Federal election.” The economic contribution from the resources sector amounts to over 20% of the GRP in Rockhampton and around seven thousand jobs.

Jason plans to consolidate their processes and improve their operational efficiencies. He says, “We’ve focused most of our energy on our customers and often, our own processes don’t get the attention they need. We’ll eventually get some apprentices because our carpet installers are ageing. We think we have about ten years before there is a shortage, so we’ll do our part to address this situation.

We’ve ten people here now, led by Leanne and Alison in our sales team and every year we’ve grown. We advertise on local TV and we’re proactive about hunting for work.”

tenpin bowling centre and while no-one will be joining the pro-circuit any time soon, the team spirit has resulted in the store winning the Flooring Xtra Qld store of the Year Award in three of the last four years. Jason said, “It makes me proud to know that we’ve been able to improve our business in a relatively tough market. This has happened through the commitment and hard work of every one of my staff, and the support given from head office. It gives me great motivation to ensure we keep improving and bettering our goals in the future.”

In his spare time Jason spends as much time as he can with Anna and their three young children, caravanning and spending time on their boat around the Keppel Islands and the Southern Barrier Reef. He’s a decent fisherman, something he learnt from his father who was passionate about the sport.

Jason believes you get out of something what you put in and with this positive outlook on both his private and business life with Flooring Xtra, he is sure to continue his success and have a little fun on the way.

Jason believes that you need to have some fun along the way. Only recently he organised a team-building event at the local laser-tag and

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Jacobsen Creative Surfaces Auckland (09) 574 0640 Wellington (04) 4954 300 Christchurch (03) 3664 153

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Software

48

The Strength of Technology Story by Nigel Welsh

T

echnology has changed how customers start their shopping journey and for the majority of us the first port of call is the internet. A quick search and we have access to a mountain of information enabling us to decide what, when and where we will start our journey in the real world, if at all…

The internet has created a customer expectation of immediacy, it is this expectation that is driving more and more businesses to look for technology driven solutions to satisfy their customers.

Traditionality, technology and the internet have been relegated to the back end of most business operations, financial management software, project management software and diary solutions to name a few, make up the bulk of most business technology.

take-offs, MeasureSquare M2 iPad/Android Mobile measuring, planning and estimation applications, combined with ServiceX job management software, have already made enormous beneficial impact on their business, customer expectations and experience.

Software Integration is high on the agenda for many flooring businesses looking for solutions that can integrate with their existing systems or integrate with other market leading specific business solutions.

There are many examples of the integration explosion including Google. Hundreds of third-party software solutions are available for integration that are job specific and at the same time enhance Googles functionality.

MeasureSquare Cloud API enables business to integrate with their existing or market specific software solutions. ServiceX, a new addition to MeasureSquare’s suite of flooring specific software and applications links its estimation software and applications to a Messenger style application designed for project management and jobsite communications. Instantly send text messages, photos, video, location data, installation plans in 2D and 3D with product and cutsheet data to your installers or anyone you have invited to your project. The strength of Technology provides instant data for you, your customers and your team.

Nigel Welsh is the Managing Director of Laser Measure Australia Pty Ltd

Technology, the internet, the cloud, software and applications are now providing bespoke tailored solutions for those at the coal face.

Smart tools designed to increase efficiency and give the user and their customers instant data enable more informed and faster decisions when it comes to making the decision to purchase.

For the retailer the benefits are expediential including instant communication via the cloud to support staff, instant data such as installation plans, cutsheets, purchase order data, scheduling, photos, documents, location data and stock availability.

For many in the flooring industry across Australia and New Zealand, adoption of tools such as MeasureSquare M8 desktop estimation software for commercial

Flooring August/September 2019

“Technology, the internet, the cloud, software and applications are now providing bespoke tailored solutions for those at the coal face.” www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Software

50

16 Reasons You Should be Using Estimating Software Story by Chris Ogden

W

hen I write about electronic quantifying (EQ), I tend to focus on a single aspect of the EQ story, and in doing so lose sight of the sheer number of compelling reasons to embrace EQ in a flooring business. I thought I would list ten reasons for implementing EQ, but I got to 16 and ran out of space. Each could be the basis of an article in themselves.

1. Process more quotes. The more quotes we generate, the more sales we make.

2. Shorten the sales process. The sooner our client has our quote, the sooner we can start our follow up process. (Let’s not get me started on the importance of follow up).

3. Reduce the cost of doing business. Every hour an employee spends working on plans increases your cost. Measure clients tell me they are saving 70% of the time they previously spent drawing and quantifying plans.

4. Create productive time for your salespeople. What do you pay for a salesperson? How much time do they spend with plans; not selling?

5. Make fewer mistakes. It is a fact mistakes that lead to inaccurate quantities; adding errors, transposing numbers, and missing cuts, are mistakes not made by computers.

6. Consistency. One quality of plan across all salespeople.

7. Provide installers with the best quality information. From seam

Flooring August/September 2019

placement to cutting plans, EQ removes the likelihood an installer might get it wrong.

8. Accessibility. Salesperson at lunch?

Gone on holiday? Been sacked? Plans generated by EQ solutions are accessible by everyone from anywhere, anytime, regardless of where the salesperson is.

9. Employ salespeople, not flooring people. Employ people with experience in selling, and give them the tools they need to quantify.

10. Bring new salespeople up to speed quickly. Have new salespeople hitting their numbers within a month instead of six months or longer.

11. Retain staff by giving them 21stcentury tools. With smartphones, tablet devices, and all the technology we use each day, life is becoming more like Star Trek; except when it comes to the hours salespeople spend with pencil and paper working on plans.

12. Transparency. Have a window on exactly how many quotes your salespeople are doing.

“Sure, there is a learning curve, but in most cases, it’s not as steep or as long as you might expect.”

13. Keep up with your competition.

EQ has been around for a long time now; it is proven technology. If you are not using EQ, it is very likely your competition is, and if so, they have an advantage over you.

14. Make your business more saleable. Being more profitable is how our business becomes more valuable, but making it a business that can be run by someone with no flooring experience is how we widen the market for our business when we come to sell it.

15. EQ pays for itself. It is one of the few overheads you can incur in a flooring business that will demonstrably make you more profitable and pay for itself.

16. EQ is now mobile. Where previously EQ had the limitation of being PC-based, it is now available for use from tablet devices and smartphones.

There is no downside to EQ. Sure, there is a learning curve, but in most cases, it’s not as steep or as long as you might expect.

Contact me at cogden@rfms.com, and I can arrange an obligation free demonstration of Measure by RFMS, along with a free trial and free training to get you going.

Chris Ogden is a consultant and a Director of RFMS Australasia a supplier of IT solutions specific to the flooring industry.

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Go Mobile

Business Management Software Solutions For Your Flooring Business Manage every aspect of your flooring business in one integrated system Layers Diary

Mobile Sales

Financials

Measuring

Debtors

Reporting

Quotes

Projects

Stock

Sales Australia: 1800 229 427 New Zealand: 0800 643 012 www.rfms.com

salesau@rfms.com

Software

52

Improve Cash Flow - Payment in Full Before Installation Story by Chris Ogden

I

caught up with a prominent and successful retailer while travelling in Victoria this month. Mark Hodgson of Carpet World has been an RFMS client for a little over a year, so the reason for the visit was primarily around IT, but as is usually the case we chatted about the industry in general and lamented the challenges of flooring retail in particular. In the course of conversation, he told me about the benefits Carpet World has enjoyed since adopting the policy of having 100% payment before installation.

I must admit that from my days in retail 100% payment before installation seems like a sure way to lose sales; by the time we sold our business, we had inched up from 30% deposit to 50% deposit with the balance payable within seven days. Needless to say, we had a full-time accounts receivable person in the office, a swollen debtors ledger, and annual bad debt write-offs. Even so, we were resistant to increasing the initial deposit beyond a point where we thought it would harm sales — we would have considered moving to 100% payment before installation to be sales suicide.

Mark suggested I should make this the subject of my next article. My response was that I would have thought he would want to keep these benefits to himself, but he told me the industry as a whole would be better off if more retailers required jobs to be paid for in full before installation.

In fairness, requiring payment in full before installation is something I have seen more frequently over the past couple of years. The benefits are obvious, and Mark more than anyone is particularly enthusiastic. When I asked him about any fear he might have about losing sales, his response was simple; those people who were unwilling to accept his terms of trade were very likely on his competitor's debtors' ledger. If it has cost Mark any sales, the benefits clearly compensate.

One of the biggest challenges a business faces is maintaining cash flow. The problem can be particularly acute in the flooring industry; the average sale value is high, and projects can be delayed for all sorts of reasons outside of our control.

Again, harking back to my time in retail, I can recall product sitting for years in our warehouse waiting for customers to complete renovations. On more than one occasion, we had projects that finally did not go ahead because marriages split up before the work could be done. In those situations, if the initial deposit fully covered the cost of the product, it was likely more good luck than good management.

Of course, change takes some management to achieve.

“…the industry as a whole would be better off if more retailers required jobs be paid for in full before installation.” Mark Hodgson – Carpet World Flooring August/September 2019

In most cases, retailers requiring payment in full before installation will take two payments; an initial payment for the product on confirmation, and a second payment for the balance in the days leading up to installation. It’s not difficult to manage, but an integrated solution like

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Software RFMS makes it easier and fool-proof. Using the tools within Order Entry and Schedule Pro, the office can be aware of those jobs being installed that still require the second payment, and operations can see if a job has been paid in full before the installer leaves with the product.

Do the sums for yourself; how much money would you have in the bank today if the product for every confirmed job was paid for in full, and if every scheduled job was paid in full? But there are benefits beyond transforming cash flow: • Jobs paid in full are more likely to be installed promptly • Bad debts are non-existent for consumer sales

53 “Do the sums for yourself; how much money would you have in the bank today if the product for every confirmed job was paid for, and if every scheduled job was paid in full?”

• After installation, customers are not looking for reasons to discount the balance, so call backs are reduced, and those call backs that do occur are not bogus • Resources employed and time spent chasing bad debts are eliminated If you are considering ways to improve your business, two things; think about changing your retail terms of trade to payment in full before installation, and take an hour out of your week to let us show you what RFMS might do for your business. You can contact me at cogden@rfms.com.

Chris Ogden is a consultant and a Director of RFMS Australasia a supplier of IT solutions specific to the flooring industry.

Be Accurate. Be Efficient. Be Profitable

MEASURE MOBILE • Draw Scale Plans • Add, Delete and Move Seams • Include Doorways and Stairs • Calculate Material Quantities • Create and Email Quotes • Take Signed Acceptance on Tablet • Take Payments Australia: 1800 229 427 New Zealand: 0800 643 012 Flooring August/September 2019

measureflooring.com measuremobile.com www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Training

54

Kevmor Professional Product Development and Training Event With Kevmor about to celebrate 40 years in the Western Australian market in April 2020 they were thrilled to be asked to be part of the first WA Annual Professional Product Development and Training Event. The Event, for the flooring industry, was held on site at Kevmor’s newly opened hands on Training Studio. With an impressive turnout of 75 people to begin training the team at Kevmor were delighted by the level of participation by the trade, suppliers and customers.

Over the three days they conducted training and demonstrations on a variety of specialist industry techniques, tools and equipment including: • Janser’s full line up of professional floor removal and preparation equipment including a wide range of tools from

Europe and the only electric ride on floor removal machine available in the world market.

• Vinyl installation overview and technical questions about how to install new types of Rigid Core floating flooring.

• Demonstrations of correct methods of grooving and welding of sheet vinyl to Australian Standards by Mark Willis from Armstrong Flooring Australia.

• Hands on moisture testing with a world leader in concrete and wood moisture meters, Wagner Meters and their new Rapid RH L6 with Bluetooth..

The event was completed with an overview by Aaron Martin, from the FCIA Floor Covering Institute of Australia, who discussed the work being done by their organisation and explained how people can get involved and work towards building a better industry together.

• Waterproofing and self-levellers by Colin Hellyer from Ardex Australia including demonstration of the new Turbo Mix 6 bags in 6 minutes mixing station with a built-in vacuum dust port for the containment of crystalline silica dust.

Stronger installation guidance and leadership with Armstrong With a mission to increase the knowledge base of best practice installation, ensuring longevity of completed projects, minimizing rectification works and disruption to end users, Installation and Technical Services Manager of Armstrong Flooring Australia Mark Willis, travels nationally to view completed projects, assist with training programs and work extensively with industry on apprentice programs.

Armstrong Flooring in collaboration with Ardex, Kevmor and Janser rolled out a three day Continuing Professional Development Flooring Industry Workshop in July at the Kevmor Installers Training Studio in Belmont, WA. Attracting over 70 attendees over the 3 days, the workshop topics ranged from Substrate Assessment, Floor Prep,

Flooring August/September 2019

Installation Sheet Vinyl, Installation LVT and Hybrid to Repairs. With additional instruction based on Australian Standards, best installation practice, maintenance, slip resistance and real life case studies.

Mark Willis who is at the forefront of vinyl, LVT, rigid core training in Australia lead a class of 23 attendees through two days of techniques and procedures enhancing their skills and understanding of Armstrong’s products. The training facilitated greater performance in their field of installation expertise. In addition, Mark spent an evening with another 26 installers from a leading WA retail group covering nuances of LVT’s and rigid core ranges.

the ‘Revision of AS 1884-2012 Floor Coverings – Resilient sheet and tiles – installation practices’ committee to oversee the revision of Australian standards for floor coverings.

Being able to collaborate alongside Ardex, Kevmor and Janser brings together stronger installation guidance and leadership with equipment, tools and underlayments from the latest technology available in the market today.

Mark was one of Armstrong’s Executives to be recently appointed by Standards Australia to

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Training Advertorial

55

Armstrong has done it again with Perth Children's Hospital

A

rmstrong Flooring Australia is honored to have been associated with the multi award winning Perth Children’s hospital project, a design collaboration between JCY Architects and Urban Designers, Cox Architecture and Billard Leece Partnership with HKS Inc. for John Holland.

The project won all major awards in the most relevant categories at the Australian Institute of Architects WA awards this year, where the winners progress to the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards to compete alongside nation’s best architectural projects.

The design collaborations were credited with the Julius Elischer Award for Interior Architecture, Jeffrey Howlett Award for Public Architecture, Wallace Greenham Award for Sustainable Architecture, and the overall Major George Temple Poole award. The Perth Children’s Hospital is also one among the 534 finalists from 70 countries at the World Architecture Festival in Amsterdam this December.

26 bespoke colours from Armstrong’s Australian made Accolade Plus, Accolade Safe and Wallflex range were specified by Cox Architecture towards this intricately detailed work of art. Armstrong takes pride in manufacturing in Australia since 1968 following the highest sustainability practices being a founding signatory of the Vinyl Council of Australia’s Product Stewardship Program, and the first PVC flooring manufacturer to comply with the Green Building Council of Australia’s Best Practice guidelines for PVC.

For more information contact Armstrong Flooring Australia: address 29-39 Mills Road, Braeside VIC 3195, phone 1800 632 624, email customer_services@armstrongflooring.com, web www.armstrongflooring.com.au

Flooring August/September 2019

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Training

56

FCIA Partners with Ronald McDonald House

T

he FCIA partners with Ronald McDonald House (RMD) in Parkville to provide unique community training for Victorian and Tasmanian flooring apprentices.

The FCIA is proud of their recent refurbishment of the flooring at the historic family accommodation at Ronald McDonald House Parkville in Melbourne. Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria and Tasmania is an iconic charity, providing accommodation for the families caring for seriously ill children to ensure they can be close to their child’s bedside. Ronald McDonald House Parkville offers a warm and supportive home-away-from-home, giving the whole family a comfortable place to stay while their child is undergoing treatment at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.

Ronald McDonald House Parkville gives over 1,300 families every year the gift of being able to stay close to their sick children while being surrounded by a support network of caring staff, volunteers, and fellow families.

The House has 51 guest rooms of various sizes, including 3 fully self-contained isolation suites.

flooring apprentices enrolled with the FCIA’s partner RTO, TFIA Business Services, refurbished the flooring in 2 hallways, kitchenette, and large open lounge, dining, kitchen area of one of the family residences at RMH Parkville.

In consultation with TFIA Business Services, the FCIA and our industry alliance partners coordinated this unique and worthwhile community project to provide Victorian and Tasmanian apprentices undertaking the Certificate III in Flooring Technology, with hands-on experience in installing brand new carpet tiles, luxury vinyl planks, and sheet vinyl at no cost to Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria and Tasmania.

A formal handover of the renovated area to the Parkville House took place on Friday 22nd July 2019. Friends of Ronald McDonald House, FCIA Members, and industry stakeholders attended the event. At this handover, the apprentices were awarded

their FCIA Apprentice Trade Card, which endorses them to becoming a certified flooring installer after completion of their apprenticeships.

The Chairman of the FCIA, Mr James Hayward, stated “This is a unique program bringing apprentices, Registered Training Organisations, industry, trainers, and the community together to provide genuine career opportunities for young people and contribute to a worthwhile charity.”

“The FCIA gratefully acknowledges the support of our member manufacturers and suppliers, including Polyflor, Shaw Contract Australia, and MJS Floorcoverings, who donated their time, expertise and materials to this wonderful project.

We also thank Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria and Tasmania for providing this unique opportunity, and TFIA Business services for providing

The new flooring, provided and installed free of charge by the FCIA and its industry members, provides even greater comfort for the residents, many of whom have travelled large distances from regional Victoria, interstate and sometimes even overseas to provide love and support for their very sick children.

The project was conducted over 5 days from 22nd to 26th July at the 100 year old terrace houses located in Parkville, just around the corner from the Royal Children’s Hospital, near the Melbourne CBD. A team of FCIA

Flooring August/September 2019

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Training

57 quality, sustainable workforce for the flooring Industry.

Since its inception, the FCIA has generated approximately 260 apprenticeship enrolments in the Certificate III in Flooring Technology.

professional training and assessment for our apprentices leading to the Certificate III in Flooring Technology. Without the support and contribution of all these stakeholders, the FCIA’s innovative, industry driven, apprenticeship program could not be achieved,” said the Chairman.

The Floor Covering Institute of Australia Ltd was established in January 2017 to address critical skills shortages in the Australian Flooring Industry, and is working with Government, training providers, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, and contractors to create a high

“We’re incredibly grateful for the work completed by the FCIA at Ronald McDonald House Parkville. We simply couldn’t afford to replace the flooring without this generous donation of product and services, so to have it donated and completed so professionally has been not only beneficial aesthetically, but also make the House feel more like a home for our families.”

Said Peter Bishop, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Victoria and Tasmania.

Safety

58

The importance of quality tactiles for the vision impaired

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t Classic Architecture, we’ve dedicated our lives to providing high-quality access solutions people can rely on. We take the time to get to the heart of community needs, delivering a quality product range that enhances public spaces and keeps people safe.

Tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs), are a vital tool for the vision impaired helping them avoid hazards and enjoy confident, independent mobility.

There are two main TGSI types: • warning (dots) which indicate the presence of hazards; and • directional (bars) which provide guidance along a path.

We’ve highlighted five crucial areas where TGSIs must be installed.

1. Stairways The vision impaired experience twice as many falls as fully able individuals, so stairs need to be able to be immediately identified with TGSIs. 2. Escalators Many vision-impaired people rely on escalators, so it’s important that they can clearly determine where the escalator begins and ends in order to avoid injury.

3. Moving walkway TGSIs near conveyor belts are important so that the vision impaired know when they’re about to approach a moving walkway.

4. Ramps Sudden change in incline can be quite disconcerting for the vision impaired so it’s important that all ramps or stairs have appropriate tactiles installed.

5. Areas which lack suitable barriers In areas which lack suitable safety barriers, tactiles must be installed if there are any overhead hazards less than two metres above floor level.

Flooring August/September 2019

Importance of quality installation In Australia, the 65+ age group is set to more than double over the next 25 years.

Many of these people will experience a degree of vision impairment and need to rely on tactiles for safe, independent mobility. At Classic, we take this responsibility very seriously. The visually impaired deserve consistent and reliable feedback from tactiles, and we’re proud to deliver a quality product that keeps them safe.

Pride in workmanship and a collective effort to ensure standards are upheld across the country will go a long way in ensuring that public spaces remain accessible to the wider community both now and into the future.

Future-proofing public spaces It’s our job to help building professionals understand the importance of carrying out high-quality installations of TGSIs and what this looks like. Australian Standards require tactiles to be installed:

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Safety • 300mm +/-10mm setback across the full path of travel at a minimum depth of 600mm; • in a consistent grid pattern; and • with a minimum luminance contrast value of 30%.

You should also consider the following when specifying a product: • Application method – we recommend using a mechanical fixing as opposed to adhesive, as this will last longer and be more reliable.

• Materials – the most durable tactiles are made from stainless steel, aluminium, ceramic, and high-quality rubbers or plastics.

• Slip resistance and UV protection – always opt for a product with proven slip resistance and UV protection qualities.

• Installation quality – an incorrect set of indicators can be dangerous so it’s important care is taken to place the tacticles correctly.

Safer cities for all At Classic Architectural Group, we know that we’re only as successful as the people we serve and the change we effect. We want to help people live their best lives, enhanced in some way by the service and products we offer and we take this responsibility seriously. This vision drives us to provide innovative access solutions, supported by an enduring commitment to quality and service that delivers the best possible results and keeps people safe.

Your inspired space We have it covered Office | Commercial | Retail Education | Healthcare Inspired Floorcoverings is an Australian-owned business, providing only the highest quality flooring at affordable prices. With a stunning selection of carpet and hard floor options, along with our bespoke creations to suit any project, we have a large range of readily available solutions for your space.

Contact us today on 1300 288 594 to discuss how we can help with your flooring project.

www.inspiredfloorcoverings.com.au

Overseas News

60

New technology on display at FloorTek 2019

F

loorTek, Dalton GA, is a long-standing showcase for new technology in the floorcovering industry. Both national and international exhibitors come to display innovative advances in machinery, including new takes on existing processes as well as brand new equipment.

This year, UK company Airbond will be showcasing a ground-breaking splicing technology. Graham Waters, managing director of Airbond, said of the new technique, “Splicing is a mature technology which had stagnated for decades. We have catapulted it into the 21st century.”

AEI’s TuftX family of products providing single yarn monitoring for broken yarn, end outs and tight ends was unveiled to

the global market at ITMA 2019 and will be showcased at FloorTek. The TuftX OEM and TuftX Modular both garner enthusiasm from manufacturers. Both models will be available for sale in the 4th quarter of 2019.

“I’ve said this before, but ITMA reinforced what I’ve been echoing for some time—the textile industry is strong. Moreover, I am confident that AEI is positioned to grow and evolve with the new technologies coming down the pike,” says company president Gary McComas.

D & M Enterprises of GA supplies the industry with creels, machining, fabrication and more. They will be displaying the new double swing arm and newly updated yarn stop foam plates.

Engineered Floors will be featuring their PureColor solution dyed fiber. Solutions has a face weight of 25 oz. along with exceptional styling and unprecedented value.

The fiber is superior to traditional piece-dyed as it doesn’t fade from prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight, won’t wear, even in hightraffic areas and has built-in soil resistance.

It can be spot cleaned using everyday household cleaners. PureColor fiber resists staining from red wine, chocolate and pets.

With minimal impact on the environment, PureColor solution dyed fibers provides a more responsible way to make the carpet people love.

Polytec’s LSV series non-contact encoder replaces traditional contact wheels for more precise, repeatable cut length control and footage counting. Reduce scrap and improved yield.

Werma will showcase the SmartMONITOR a smart MDC alternative (machine monitoring and data collection) for industrial

Flooring August/September 2019

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Overseas News companies looking for a way to quickly and easily gather reliable data to optimise manufacturing processes. Intelligent networking of signal towers creates a simple, low-cost retrofit alternative to conventional, complex MDC systems. SmartMONITOR identifies and document faults and unproductive time quickly, reduces down time, works regardless of manufacturer, age or function.

AndonSPEED optimises your processes at packaging and shipping stations - because AndonSPEED provides a visual notification of where problems have arisen. Permanent time savings are possible because of quick fault repairs. The wireless network sends signals to the workstation or the central control station and can send an email notification if required.

61 Additionally, several exhibitors will be showing advances in robotics and automation technology. Advanced Control Solutions will be demonstrating their innovation in custom machinery not only in the traditional way in their booth, but also with a robot which will be handing out refreshments to attendees. In the realm of software, new exhibitors InventureIT will be unveiling their new inventory management system, IMS, at the expo.

Dalton, GA is at the forefront of innovation and technology in floorcovering, so FloorTek

is sure to be an exciting look into all of the new and improved ideas that are developing in the floorcovering industry.

For more information about technologies and innovations at FloorTek please visit floor-tek.com

Floorcovering Association of Victoria Inc.

le a s or

business f

Expand your horizons to Cairns

FAV would like to thank all its sponsors for the 2019 awards night held on the 10th August at the Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne.

Looking forward to 2020.

This carpet business that is a fixture in the Cairns Home Makers Market. Carpet Bob is run by two people, with the installation of the floor coverings done by contractors.

The business has a large customer base mainly through local real estate agencies and developers.

There are many opportunities to expand the range beyond the current stock type.

Price of $360,000 WIWO stock included.

Contact Julie Ormsby, julie@ormsbyrealty.com.au or 0433 521 815 for more information.

Flooring August/September 2019

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

2019 Exhibitions

SEPTEMBER 2019 5 – 8 Bauen & Modernisieren 2019

Construction fair

Zurich, Switzerland https://www.bauen-modernisieren.ch/ htm/home.htm 8- 11

Concrete 2019 An exhibition for the Australian and international building and

construction industry

Sydney, Australia https://concrete2019.com.au/ 9 – 12 InterBuild Jordan Fair 2019

Fair and forum for architects and the building industry.

Amman, Jordan http://jordanfairs.com/ 11 – 15 Habitare 2019

Interior design and furniture fair.

Helsinki, Finland https://habitare.messukeskus. com/?lang=en

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD ABN: 27 006 876 419 PO BOX 800, Templestowe Victoria, Australia 3106 Ph: + 61 3 9890 0815 Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087 Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au Website: www.elitepublishing.com.au

17 – 19 Surface Design Middle East 2019

Exhibition dedicated to the flooring, wall covering and surfaces industry.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates. www.surfacedesignexhibition.com/ 17 – 19 Workspace 2019

Event dedicated to commercial interiors.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates https://www.workspace-index.com/

PUBLISHER Vicky Cammiade Email: vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au EDITOR Michelle Cammiade michelle.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au

18 – 21 100% Design London 2019

Contemporary interior design exhibition.

London, United Kingdom https://www.100percentdesign.co.uk/

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Philip Ashley philipneilashley6@bigpond.com ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Sandie Velkovska Email: sandie@elitepublishing.com.au

19 – 22 London Design Fair 2019

A four- day industry event featuring, furniture, lighting, textiles, interior

materials and design concepts.

London, United Kingdom https://www.londondesignfair.co.uk/

CIRCULATION For circulation enquiries please email: info@elitepublishing.com.au PRODUCTION For artwork and production enquiries please email: production@elitepublishing.com.au

25 – 28 Home & Tex 2019

International exhibition for interior design, materials and accessories.

Istanbul, Turkey www.neventum.com/ tradeshows/home-tex-hometextiledecorationfair3

12 – 14 BuildExpo Tanzania 2019

Building construction, flooring and carpentry exhibition.

Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania https://www.expogr.com/tanzania/ buildexpo/

PRE-PRESS Prominent Digital PRINTED BY Prominent Group Pty Ltd

*** For more information or to confirm dates, please check the individual event websites.

Ad Index Airstep Australia Altro Apac

9, 46, 47

Godfrey Hirst Australia

11, 19

Front Cover

Inspired Floorcoverings

59

Amtico International

17

Kenbrock Flooring

Armstrong Flooring

55

Kevmor Flooring

Australian Select Timbers

5

Inside Back Cover 33, 35

Laser Measure Australia

49

Australian Flooring Supplies

41

Mapei Australia

27

BBS Flooring Products

31

Ormsby Realty

61

Classic Architectural Group

45

Polivac International

25

Dunlop Flooring

Inside Front Cover, Outside Back Cover

Flooring Assoc'n of Victoria (FAV)

61

Floorworld

21

Forbo Flooring

23

Gerflor Australasia

15

GMK Logistics

57

Polyflor Australia

37, 43

Preference Floors

13

RFMS Australasia

51, 53

RLA Polymers

39

Sika Australia

29

Tarkett Australia

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD (established 1985) All rights reserved – No part of this publication maybe reproduced, transmitted or copied in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without the express prior written consent of Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd. Viewpoints, opinions, claims, etc expressed in articles appearing in this publication are those of the authors. The Publishers accept no responsibility for the information supplied or for claims made by companies or their representatives regarding product performance, etc or for any errors, omissions, misplacement, alterations, or any subsequent changes, or for any consequences of reliance on this information or this publication.

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD PUBLISHERS OF: Supplier Woodworking Magazine, Tile Today Magazine, Discovering Stone Magazine, FB Magazine, Flooring Magazine, Finishes & Surfaces Magazine

7

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Cost effective solution for residential and commercial installations

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