Flooring Feb/Mar 2022

Front Cover February / March 2022

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

“A better choice for you and the environment”

All your flooring needs covered www.rlapolymers.com.au

To celebrate Redbook green® healthier carpet™, we are giving end customers the chance to score a free Apple Watch valued at $599!

Leading the way in healthy and environmentally conscious flooring, Redbook green® triexta carpets are officially certified Declare™ Red List Free. This means that under the stringent Declare™ guidelines, Redbook green® contains no nasty chemicals that can cause harm to humans, for complete peace of mind and worry-free living on a luxuriously soft carpet.

To complement our healthier carpets™, the new Series 7 Apple Watch has powerful apps that make it the ultimate device for a healthier life.

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Contact your local Feltex account manager for more information on this promotion.

For full terms and conditions visit: www.feltex.com/healthiercarpetspromotion

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Contents

3

vol 40 no 1

Waterproofing

Editor’s Note

12

Strength from within

Training 14

FCIA apprentice charity workshops

Software 16

Improve your business – Integrate your business operations

Company Profile 20

A voice for the Flooring Industry

Feature 24

Flooring adhesives guide

Safety 36

Pantone Colour of the Year 2022

Insurance Matters

Welcome to the February / March 2022 issue of Flooring Magazine. This year marks Flooring Magazine’s 40th birthday celebration and inside this issue Philip Ashley takes a walk down memory lane as we reflect on the success of the bimonthly B2B magazine that continues to play an important role supporting our vibrant flooring industry.

Also in this issue you will find our annual Adhesives Guide where the experts at RLA Polymers and Forbo Flooring Systems explain why choosing the right adhesive is fundamentally important in achieving a quality flooring installation. Today there are a variety of adhesives available due to technical and commercial advances in the floorcovering industry, and as such it has never been more important to consider the chemistry of both the adhesive and the floorcoverings being bonded. Find out more in this issue’s adhesives feature.

Please feel free to contact me directly regarding any news or product information by email at – michelle@elitepublishing.com.au Don’t forget to join our online community and visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

40

Your industry – your insurance – your insurance broker

Until next time, enjoy your read.

Events & Exhibitions

Michelle Cammiade

42

DesignBUILD returns in 2022

Editor

Flooring Magazine is now on: @flooringmagazineaustralia

Front Cover RLA Polymers www.rlapolymers.com.au

@flooringmagazine @flooringmagazine

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

News

4

FAV News The Floorcovering Association of Victoria (FAV) would like to thank all its members for their continued support over the last 2 years. The restrictions faced by our industry during the lock downs were more onerous than most trades on site as 25 percent attendance restrictions meant very few days were allocated to floor finishes. The legacy of this action combined with border restrictions limiting the normal movement of tradesmen and women from city to country and state to state has meant a build-up of work everywhere. The normal complexities of trying to have flooring installed has the added pressure of securing labour and it would seem labour issues will continue for a while.

As such the need for FAV’s industrial skills and comprehensive OHS package and support will be drawn upon often this year.

With the cancellation of last year’s Association awards, only days out from it happening, the team at FAV would like to acknowledge the 2021 category winners.

There were six categories which FAV have determined BEST and recognises the diversity within the flooring industry.

The categories for 2020 - 2021 • Polished Concrete - Winner: Burwood Brickworks Woolworths/ Dan MurphyProgrind • Healthcare - Winner: Northern Hospital Floor 91 • Office Fit out - Joint Winners: Nissan 254 Wellington Road - Stahmers and Vic Gov Dept. 2 Floor Fit out 180 Lonsdale Street - Citrus Group • Residential - Winner: Highrise Apartment Complex, Folia Apartments - Stahmers • Hospitality - Winner: Regent Theatre Refurbishment - H+H Flooring • Education- Winner: Fintona Girls School - Cam Hammond

The team at FAV would like to thank all who submitted entries. They would normally acknowledge all entries with a collage of photos of the year’s projects submitted to be shown on the big screens whilst predinner drinks are occurring at the annual event.

They will endeavour to include them with this year.

With a renewed approach to managing COVID in the community now set the FAV team are confident that the Associations Awards night on the 6th of August at the Plaza Ballroom will go ahead at maximum capacity. They will be contacting members and sponsor over the next few weeks about attendance, so please start thinking about the projects you would like to put forward for this year.

The Association has a big year planned with its members. Including: • EBA up for review • AGM • New OHS SWMS • FAV awards night

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

News

6

FCIA – 2022 Starting a new year is always exciting. It is a time to reflect on the previous year and see how previous plans take shape but also set and focus on new goals.

As all of us in the flooring industry are aware, there a number of issues that are really starting to impact our industry and must be addressed urgently if the industry is to move forward.

Throughout 2022, FCIA will be working closely with all industry sectors to develop solutions to major concerns.

Undoubtedly two of the biggest concerns raised by everyone I speak to is: the lack of installers (let alone quality installers), and the lack of new people coming into this industry.

In response to this, FCIA will be working with retailers, manufacturers, commercial contractors and suppliers to see how WE as an industry can try and resolve these issues.

Some exciting initiatives FCIA will be launching in 2022 include:

of flooring qualifications within the industry by:

Detailed information will be provided over the coming months.

• Working with secondary schools to promote flooring apprenticeship as a great career opportunity for students wanting to do a trade which in turn will attract new apprentices into this industry.

Qualified Trainers and Assessors Like many other trades, the flooring industry lacks qualified trainers. As part of FCIA’s commitment to source new trainers and assessors, we have developed a mentoring program for installers who are working through their Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE).

• Assisting existing non-qualified installers to have the skills recognised through RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning).

• Conducting industry specific training short courses for retailers, installers, manufacturers and suppliers by partnering with industry experts.

Group Training Organisation (GTO) The GTO will support the industry by making hiring, management, and training of apprentices easier for all employers. It removes the administration and wage frustrations that many employers face. The GTO will advertise, screen, recruit, employ and host flooring apprentices.

If you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a flooring trainer and assessor, please contact me.2022 is a very busy year for the FCIA and I am really looking forward to working with you and your business. I encourage you to contact me at any time to discuss industry issues or suggestions on how we can find solutions to some of our industry concerns.

Let us make this an amazing year for Flooring!

Fiona Wischnewski, CEO FCIA Group, fwischnewski@fcia.org.au

Focus Groups As an industry body it is our role to listen to what industry is saying and deliver appropriate programs and services. FCIA is striving to find new and attractive ways to get businesses to talk. Over the next year we will be conducting events and forums on issues that affect the flooring industry at all levels and examine new ways to find lasting solutions. Stay tuned for more information in the coming months.

Skills and Training Promotion FCIA will be working closely with Members and a variety of stakeholders to lift the profile

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Product Update

8

Konekt – tiling made easy Over the past decade the flooring industry has been flooded with examples of innovations intended to make floors easier and faster to install, and nowhere is this truer than for ceramic and porcelain tile. Over the last 1000 years ceramic tiles have always been laid onto a thick layer of wet mortar, a method that produced an exceptionally durable floor but one which involved a costly, skill dependant laying process.

Now, there is a more recent innovation in this flooring field — it’s called Konekt, a new product that uses a porcelain ceramic tile with reinforcement and a built-in interlocking system. Like modern laminate timber floor finishes the Konekt porcelain ceramic tile system is considered a floating floor, it does not need adhesive to install to the subfloor hence will not crack if the subfloor moves. The result is a significantly faster DIY installation that is cost effective, and easily declips for removal.

Porcelain tile flooring The Konekt system uses real porcelain tiles that are reinforced and permanently adhered to a

proprietary state of the art reinforced substrate that has click-together tabs along the edges.

The system requires no substrate board or thin-set adhesives. The grouting of the system comes in two no mess options, a K-Strip dry grout option and an K-Epoxy grout, a gun dispenser applicator option.

The Konekt tiling made easy system is not adhered to the substrate or subfloor underlayment in any way. Instead, it is simply laid on the surface, gaining its stability through the interlocking edges that hold the entire flooring layer together as one unified surface. The heavy weight once all clipped together makes this a stable flooring system.

Installation Unlike floating laminate flooring, which tends to lock by butting the edges together and pivoting downward, Konekt porcelain flooring tiles lock by placing each tile flat on the floor and then tapping and sliding one tile toward the other until you hear a click. This gives you true alignment every time - a perfect finish.

Earlier attempts at floating ceramic tile flooring where the tiles were placed in a separate tray with no reinforcement had poor results and outcomes.

The Konekt difference is its HIR, with its integrated system it achieves very high impact resistance and load bearing results.

Konekt flooring can be installed over most existing flooring and it does not matter if the floor is contaminated.

In the same way that click-lock laminate flooring quickly became a viable alternative to solid hardwood the Konekt flooring system now allows consumers to have quality, endurance, and the style of porcelain tiles at a reduce cost.

Konekt does not need an underlay, it has one built into the system, hence it has a 6 Star ACCC acoustic noise rating, so it is great for high rise apartments.

Being 100% reusable is also environmentally friendly.

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Product Update

10

Carpet Court’s eco-friendly flooring Darren’s selection for carpets made from ECONYL • Premium Soft Collection – These luxuriously soft yarns are both stain and fade resistant. The perfect collection that balances durability and supreme comfort.

Until recently, choosing eco-friendly products for the home has been no mean feat and often at the expense of quality and style, says Carpet Court Ambassador Darren Palmer. Starting from the ground up, Carpet Court’s exclusive new eco-friendly flooring options allow for any homeowner to make a thoughtful decision that won’t see them sacrifice on design or durability.

Made from 100 percent recycled yarn through recovered nylon waste products – including fishing nets, fabric scraps and carpets destined for landfill – Carpet Court’s eight exclusive ranges featuring ECONYL regenerated nylon come in an array of on-trend colours, textures, and styles to suit any abode.

“Conscious consumerism is becoming a way of life, driving designers and manufacturers to respond by creating beautiful, innovative and cost-effective products that don’t use additional resources in the creative process,” says Darren.

“Unlike virgin nylon, which relies on oil from the Earth’s reserves, not a single barrel of oil is used in producing ECONYL yarn,” adds Darren. “Minimising oil usage, reducing emissions and creating colour within the fibre during the manufacturing process, allows consumers to make a thoughtful flooring decision that will withstand the test of time.”

• Performance Collection – Allergen filtering and fade resistant, these individually twisted yarns are highly resilient and perfect for busy families.

“With all the benefits of traditional Solution Dyed Nylon, ECONYL regenerated nylon shares the same look, feel and performance qualities as traditional nylon, meaning choosing an eco-friendly soft flooring for the home no longer comes at the expense of style.”

From high-performing textured loops to twist pile structures that are soft to the touch, the new Australian Made ranges from Tuftmaster Carpets and EC Carpets are manufactured exclusively for Carpet Court using ECONYL regenerated nylon, all of which feature a distinct style, colourway, look and feel.

“Not only are they soft and luxurious to the touch, but they also boast all the practical qualities homeowners are seeking in a carpet – they’re low maintenance, stain and fade resistant, hard wearing and affordable, offering a high-value solution for the conscious consumer.”

• Textured Collection - Combining exceptional quality and a textured loop design which is not susceptible to shading or tracking, this collection provides functionality without sacrificing comfort.

Tuftmaster Carpets and EC Carpets cleaning tips • EC Carpets – Being an important design and decorative element, protect your investment by planning a maintenance program. From installing protective matting at entrances, to regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning, maintaining the upkeep of your carpet made from ECONYL® regenerated nylon will ensure longevity in its optimal condition.

• Tuftmaster Carpets – With 1520-year warranty on select features, Tuftmaster carpets made from ECONYL® regenerated nylon can be protected through regular vacuuming and adjusting furniture to alleviate pressure marks. To remove any spills, gently blot affected area with cold water and press dry.

Flooring February/March 2022

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Product Update Quality, safety, productivity, and sustainability Polivac International is a proudly Australian owned manufacturer of commercial cleaning machinery and exporter of advanced cleaning technologies. All machines are designed and manufactured in their Melbourne facility. Polivac’s journey started in 1949 and with over 70 years of experience they have meticulously designed different commercial cleaning machines that excel in quality and productivity. They intend to carry out continuous research and development to discover the changing requirements of customers and develop machines which adapt to these changes.

Safety: Polivac follow Victorian government guidelines and implement all the safety parameters for ensuring the protection of all operators and the community. They believe in providing our Australian community with training and risk assessment for each machine.

They have worked closely with industry experts and curated the Polivac International Occupational safety and management protocol.

This ensures that machine operators are equipped with knowledge of potential hazards and risks associated with different working environment and can take diligent measures to mitigate risks.

The current Polivac range is diverse and versatile, covering hard floor maintenance, carpet cleaning, concrete grinding and finishing through to timber floor sanding, back-pack, and canister vacuum cleaners.

They manufacture all their products keeping in mind four main concepts: quality, safety, productivity, and sustainability.

Productivity: Combining innovative technology, durability, and operator-friendly machines Polivac have managed to deliver equipment that provides maximum productivity. All their machines are manufactured in accordance with ergonomic design suggestions which improves efficiency and reduces operator’s fatigue.

Quality: Their manufacturing process is regulated to deliver the highest possible standards. Polivac attained the International Quality standard in August 1997, under the license QEC 10553 which pertains to ISO 9001:2015. Their products are extensively tested under the QA processes during manufacture and after product completion, this ensures exceptional product quality.

Sustainability: Polivac strive to adhere to environmental guidelines and policies.

A cornerstone to their commitment is ‘The Polivac Conservation Cycle’ protecting the environment through intelligent design. Focus on reducing environmental footprint has been possible with the solar panels installed in their manufacturing units along with all the Polivac products being recyclable.

Waterproofing

12 Strength from within

The Quality of Oxtek Solutions’ concrete waterproofing is guaranteed for 15 years.

200mm therefore the E96 test is not an applicable test method. “We understand that AS 1884:2021 contains important tests for applied film forming solutions but the Standard has caused some misunderstanding for penetrative solutions that are not in the scope of ASTM E96 testing” said Oxtek Product Development & Quality Assurance Manager, John Daymond.

Established 1998, initially as ‘Protect Crete’, Oxtek Solutions Pty Ltd. guarantees its permanent concrete waterproofing for 15 years. With 24 years as a specialist producer Oxtek has become the trusted brand in the industry.

Oxtek’s specialty products penetrate concrete up to a depth of 200mm which provides a permanent moisture and vapour barrier.

Oxtek’s product solutions do not rely on a topical surface membrane.

Oxtek’s two leading products are both single pack, safe and easy to apply: • X220 Moisture-Fix is for existing concrete • X200 Densi-Proof is for new concrete and is applied at the time of pour The Oxtek treated concrete remains compatible with future application of epoxies, line marking paints, levelling compounds, adhesives and topical flooring systems.

Leading manufacturer’s compatibility tests available on request.

Quality Guaranteed Oxtek Solutions guarantee superior protection for concrete. Products are rigorously tested in the laboratory and in the field. All products are HACCP Certified and easy to install.

Understanding AS1884:2021 The National Construction Code (NCC) appropriately references many Australian Standards. AS 1884:2021 sets details of work necessary to prepare subfloor surfaces and the Standard defines two very different moisture suppression systems: (a) a coating that is film forming which sits on the surface of the subfloor; or (b) a penetrative treatment that is absorbed into the subfloor Oxtek Solutions are penetrative treatment barriers.

An applied solution (surface sitting or film forming) mainly relies on a mechanical bond with the subfloor and is aptly measured with ASTM E96. This test method measures water and or vapour passage through the film barrier sitting on a medium, usually thin concrete, and gives a result expressed in perms and recalculated and expressed as MVTR (Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate).

The E96 was developed to measure water permeance and assesses its suitability for protective packaging.

The E96 test does not include in its scope the ability to test concrete beyond 35mm.

All Oxtek Solutions are penetrative water barrier treatments applied on site and absorbed within the concrete to a depth up to

Flooring February/March 2022

Once applied Oxtek Solutions become a permanent part of the concrete and its chemical makeup. It penetrates the subsurface of concrete up to 200mm and chemically promotes the normal hydration process of concrete. By blocking the interconnected voids (capillaries), Oxtek Solutions promote calcium oxides to produce more hydrate, CSH. The water in the concrete is locked as a gel but allows continued hydration minimising shrinkage cracking.

The barrier is also a cure regime for new concrete equal to water pond curing.

“Unlike a topically applied surface film barrier, an absorbed Oxtek Solution will not be compromised by a high impact, gouge or a small cut on the surface” Daymond added.

“Our systems are time proven in major projects across hospitals, aged care, commercial, civil, government and many other industries and we are committed to assist our customers and the industry understand the options for waterproofing concrete for their specific building and construction projects” Daymond said.

Manufacturer’s instructions supersede the Standard.

Oxtek Solutions, +61 3 9798 7534 www.oxtek.com.au

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Concrete moisture barrier that is guaranteed for 15 years

Oxtek Solutions Pty Ltd are the trusted brand in the flooring industry, offering a range of quality products that penetrate and provide a permanent moisture and vapour barrier.

Cures, densifies, hardens and waterproofs concrete up to 200mm.

Doesn’t form a membrane – after trade friendly for epoxies, line marking, levelling compounds, adhesives.

Colloidal Silicate – fills capillaries and voids created by the bleed water.

Reduces shrinkage cracking, efflorescence and reo corrosion.

Environmentally Friendly, HACCP Certified and low odour – 0.0g/l VOC.

Single pack, safe and easy to apply: EXISTING CONCRETE:

X220 MOISTURE-FIX

NEW CONCRETE:

X200 DENSI-PROOF

Fully absorbed in to the concrete, an Oxtek Solution won’t be compromised by a high impact, gouge or small cut on the surface and will work to your project specification. Oxtek Solutions are guaranteed for concrete aged under 15 years, with a project specification.

Oxtek Interactive Gel Zone

Oxtek Interactive Gel Zone

Oxtek internal membrane provides a permanent moisture barrier

Temporary topical membrane

For advice or technical information, contact us on +61 3 9798 7534 or visit www.oxtek.com.au

Training

14 FCIA Apprentice Charity Workshops

Article by Fiona Wischnewski, CEO FCIA Group

T

he Floor Covering Institute of Australia Ltd (FCIA) was established to address critical skills shortages within the industry and is create a highquality sustainable workforce for the flooring industry.

To lift the profile and reputation of the flooring industry and to drive relevant, up to date flooring installation skills, FCIA coordinates intensive industry workshops which assist first and second year apprentices in the progression towards their qualification in Flooring Technology.

The FCIA gives back to the community by using these workshops to refurbish the floors of community buildings, charity organisations or other deserving groups.

These workshops bring together FCIA members, RTO trainers and assessors, experienced installers, and industry technical experts to provide apprentices with an intensive, practical experience in all aspects of flooring installation. This includes moisture testing, grinding, floor preparation and levelling, plus essential elements of resilient, carpet, timber, and floating floors.

of the floors in two of the houses. The work included removal of old coverings, flooding, sanding, laying of hardboard underlay, ramping, stair nosing and new floor coverings.

TFIA Business Services were the partnering RTO at this workshop and the previous two.

These workshops enable the apprentice to: • Capture evidence required or their training such as photos, videos, work diaries etc • Support their training and skills with accessible and current learning • Receive practical assessment on a range of skills on site (as identified by the RTO Assessor) • Benefit from personal tuition in areas in which they may be struggling • Learn specific laying techniques from product specialists and industry experts The first Apprentice Charity Workshop for 2022 was held at Ronald McDonald House Parkville Victoria (Phase 3) from 14 to 18 February. During this workshop, ten apprentices came together to replace some

TFIA Business Services has extensive training knowledge and experience and has been delivering the Flooring Technology qualification to apprentices since 1999.

Their trainer/assessor, Andrew Cartledge was present at the workshop to train and guide his apprentices. Andrew brings with him over 40 years of flooring experience and knowledge. During his time within the flooring industry, Andrew has worked in a number of roles and installed all varieties of floor coverings for both commercial and domestic jobs. This has given him a wide breadth of installation knowledge and skills to pass onto the next generation of flooring installers.

For further information on the FCIA Apprentice Charity Workshops and dates please contact Fiona Wischnewski, fwischnewski@fcia.org.au

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

6 Steps to RPL

(Recognition of Prior Learning) Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a great opportunity for those flooring installers who have years of experience but hold no formal qualifications.

What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

RPL is an assessment process that assesses the skills and knowledge an individual may have gained during their working life through formal or informal learning/training.

This could include work experiences, formal short courses, internal staff training sessions and volunteer work.

It can include any type of evidence that could demonstrate the individual’s ability/competency in all or some units of competency from the MSF30818 Certificate III in Flooring Technology.

How much does it cost?

• $1200 upon receipt of application • $750 upon receipt of evidence • $750 upon issue of certificate For further information please contact: Fiona Wischnewski, General Manager FCIA Training Academy (RTO45668) M: 0407 295 149 E: fwischnewski@fcia.org.au

Fill in RPL Application

Complete self assessment

Meet with Assessor

Collect & submit RPL evidence

Gap Training (if needed)

Certificate Issued

(If competency is achieved)

Software

16

Improve your business - Integrate your business operations Article by Chris Ogden

M

ore than ever, flooring retailers are investing in improving their business management systems.

As providers of IT systems and tools to the industry, we see three things driving this increased interest. Firstly, flooring businesses are being sold to people from outside the industry. In their previous business experience, these people have been used to more control and transparency, and they want to see it in their new business. Also, improving this aspect of the business is a quick way to enhance their investment.

Secondly, the number of flooring businesses moving into the hands of the next generation is driving change. Sons and daughters taking over the family business are more IT savvy, and they have no intention of continuing to run the business as it has been run for the past three or four decades. Finally, more and more flooring retailers are simply seeing the need to improve their systems to keep pace with their competitors.

in one system, removing the need for double handling, eliminating the resultant errors and providing business owners real-time information about how their business is performing.

What do they want to achieve?

In short, business integration.

What do they want to achieve? In short, business integration.

Most flooring businesses consist of a bunch of totally separate systems; measuring, quoting, stock management, installer management, financials, and all the other systems used to run your average flooring business, all of which run independently of each other. The result is double and triple handling of information, leading to mistakes and omissions; lack of visibility as to how the business is performing; difficulty accessing and analysing business performance.

A fully integrated business solution, on the other hand, manages all of these elements

Flooring February/March 2022

A fully integrated business management solution will provide access to data that will drive sound decisions. Every transaction going through a business currently generates data that gives insight into that business; information about products, customers, suppliers, sales performance, margin, and much more. None of which is accessible from the systems running 90% of flooring businesses today.

If you want to understand what business integration looks like, think about the last time you visited your local hardware store.

On locating the screwdriver you need, you

take it to the checkout, where the item is scanned, a cash sale docket is generated for the correct price, and you pay. Behind the scenes, the integrated system identified the product to determine the price, updated the payment to receipts and removed one screwdriver from inventory—all in the time it takes to process your purchase at the checkout. At days end, the owner of the hardware store can run a report to show sales for the day, what was sold and the profit made. At any time, he can run a report to analyse his screwdriver sales to see which are selling and which are the most profitable.

More than ever, flooring retailers are investing in improving their business management systems.

How many steps are required to achieve the same end when you make a cash sale in your 18 business?

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

YOUR BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR FLOORING BUSINESS

Layers Diary Financials Debtors Quotes Stock

Integration with

Mobile Sales Measuring Reporting Projects

New Customer Relationship Sales Management App Every sales team needs a way to manage the relationship with past, current, and potential customers.

CRM provides an efficient and mobile tool to focus on retaining existing customers and gaining new customers with lead workflow and customer communication to drive sales growth. ✓ Lead Management & Workflow

www.rfms.com salesau@rfms.com

✓ Communication

✓ Visibility

Australia: 1800 229 427 New Zealand: 0800 643 012

Software

18

If you say selling flooring is more complex than a cash sale, you would be correct, but the same principles apply. Integration essentially means that work you must do manually is done automatically, saving time, preventing errors, and generating real-time data.

Imagine the benefits of capturing customer information when you first issue a sample and then never keying that information again; not when you book a measure, not when you do a quote, and not when you generate the final invoice. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of integration.

If you are not currently working in a fully integrated environment and would like to see what it looks like, we would be happy to

BE ACCURATE.

show you RFMS, the only fully integrated solution designed for the flooring industry and supported by people who understand your business.

BE EFFICIENT.

Chris Ogden is a consultant and Managing Director of RFMS Australasia, a supplier of IT solutions specific to the flooring industry. Chris has an extensive background in all aspects of the flooring industry, and he can be contacted at cogden@rfms.com.

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 www.rfms.com

salesau@rfms.com

GET MORE OUT OF YOUR FLOORING BUSINESS OVER 60 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WITH COUNTRY TOWN VALUES Andersens is proudly a privately held company with its head office in Gatton where it all started with Jack Andersen over 60 years ago. We have 53 sites from far North QLD and down to Adelaide and expanding nationally.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU JOIN OUR FAMILY Significant incentives available to existing flooring stores National training and business support Industry leading green programs Full range of suppliers available from day one with only one account Retain your local brand We understand that it is your business Field support Marketing support programs and dedicated digital marketing professionals Country Town Values are what drives us Join other independents who have become part of the Andersens family.

Ideal for independent operators or installers wanting to be part of a national brand

CHOOSE ANDERSENS

Call Dean Lightfoot on 0408 067 439 or Email dlightfoot@andersens.com.au

Company Profile

20

A voice for the Flooring Industry Article by Philip Ashley Flooring Magazine is celebrating its 40th birthday this year. The bimonthly magazine continues to play a very important role supporting the vibrant flooring industry.

Australasian Floor News was established by Elizabeth (Libby) Lyons (Not the federal government's Workplace Gender Equality Agency director) in 1981 as a fortnightly black and white tabloid style publication.

Libby was an accomplished journalist but for personal reasons in late 1994, decided to hand the rights over to Vicky Cammiade and Maureen Horne, who already had several industry publications under their stewardship. The first issue published by Elite Publishing was sent out to the industry in November of that year at a subscription of $45 for five issues a year.

To give you a historical context to the time, in October 1994 David Boon scored 114 against Pakistan in Karachi; Nelson Mandela was visiting the USA; Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat won the Nobel Peace Prize along with Yitzhak Rabin and Shimon Perez of Israel; and Venus Williams made her tennis debut. Yes, it was a while ago but Vicky and Maureen, affectionately known as “the girls” had been in publishing since 1973 with the successful Sportslink Magazine, a carpet cleaning magazine and another dealing with commercial interior products.

The first issue set the tone by including not just industry news, but ‘How to’ articles dealing with carpet colour; increasing business opportunities; carpet, and indoor air quality; solving disputes; and floor covering software and retailing, something

Flooring February/March 2022

the industry was struggling with at the time. The major advertisers were Airstep (Bridgestone) and The Solution Specialists, a software company. Jennifer Curtis joined Elite Publishing for the May-June edition, the last one before the name was changed to ‘Australasian Flooring Magazine,’ shortened to ‘AFM.’ More recently, the publication was renamed ‘Flooring’ to represent all aspects of the industry.

Vicky said, “Shortly after we acquired the title we renamed it and a glossy magazine representing the industry was reborn.

Will Verschaeren of Bridgestone sent in a comment at the time, “Congratulations on a fantastic issue, it’s your best yet. Your magazine is great, not boring like some other industry mags, it’s interesting, it’s relevant. Please keep up the good work.”

Being relevant is a quality that Flooring is well-known for, and a value Vicky, Maureen and Jennifer worked hard to maintain over the last 27 years. Maureen and Jennifer have since retired and the magazine is

now capably managed by Vicky’s daughter Michelle and Maureen’s daughter Georgia, who are both ably qualified for the role.

Over the years the magazine has supported the industry as it transformed into a more visual, design-oriented business. An example is that back in 1995 carpet was 66% of the trade in Australia and timber and floating floors was only 5%. The Australian Timber Flooring Association reports that now, timber floors represent 25% of the total flooring market. But back in June 1995 you would have known this change was taking place because you would have read about it in Australian Floor News.

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Company Profile that Flooring keeps abreast of supplies, trends, issues, and technology and this is achieved with the close co-operation of industry professionals. Every new issue is a window on current trends and industry hot topics.

Vicky says, “The bimonthly magazine plays a very important role to the industry and is dedicated to keep the industry abreast with pertinent news, inform the industry nationwide about any new product launches, and most of all, educate the retailers and the associated tradies about new technologies, new innovations, and new concepts.” Elite publishing operates as a small business, providing a team of professionals an affinity with the companies and people who are the magazine’s principal advertisers and readers.

Maureen Horne once said, “As a small business we understand what manufacturers face on a day to day basis. We feel we have an empathy for their problems and needs. We’ve always made ourselves available to the trade, supporting many companies through the magazine. People in the trade may be closeknit but can also be somewhat isolated. There is no time to get out and source information and whom do you go to anyway? Flooring brings the trade to the industry in a neat, topical, readable package.”

Flooring now has a circulation of over ten thousand copies and while the people have changed over the years, the standards set by the publication in those early days have been maintained. Floor coverings are a visual, design-oriented product that over the years has taken its rightful place in the creation of any living or working space. The advent of reality TV dealing with renovations and transformations of living spaces has made the buying public more aware of what can be achieved, and the Australian

21 flooring industry is well-placed to provide the products they want.

From humble beginnings, Flooring has grown with the industry and in fact, some of the early advertisers and supporters can still be found within the pages of your current magazine. Airstep, Carpet Call, Carpet Court, Carpet Choice, Godfrey Hirst, and Laminex were all companies that supported the new publication and provided the industry with plenty of new products and solutions to the issues of the day. You could say Flooring Magazine brought the industry together, appropriately demonstrated in the magazine with images of major rivals arm in arm at industry events.

And today, the issues of the past still haunt the industry. Apprenticeships and labour, quality standards and dispute resolution, design and trends, the internet and technology. Commentary on all these issues and more could be found within the pages of Flooring, right from the very first issue, modest though that was. Flooring Magazine will continue to be a voice for the industry, one of the most design-oriented, technology focused, quality driven sectors of the building and furnishing sectors. But for now, it’s celebration time so as the late great comic George Carlin once joked, One Tequila, Two Tequila, Three Tequila, Floor.

For forty years the Flooring industry nationwide has totally embraced and fully supported their very own iconic industry publication. For their part, Elite Publishing continues to provide vital product knowledge to the end user, and information on all business and industry matters. It’s important

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Retailer of the Month

22

The Carpet Factory, Small by Design Article by Philip Ashley Darren Cardamone has been in the flooring business most of his life.

Like many who have taken on the family business, Darren feels as though he has been in the carpet game since the day he was born, but over the years he’s learnt there’s more to life than business.

The Eastern Melbourne suburb of Eltham is a nature-loving, artsy retreat. Locals spend their weekends on nature walks or exploring Montsalvat, the famous 1930’s artists’ colony.

You’ll find large family homes in a 70s and 80s style with floor-to-ceiling windows and large gardens. You’ll also find some modern renovations and redesigns set in neatly landscaped gardens. According to Domain, the average price for a home in Eltham is upwards of 1.2 million dollars, compared to the mean Melbourne price of just below a million.

choices, and plenty of repeat customers, have guaranteed the continuing success of this independent flooring outlet. With his wife Ellen and the equivalent of three full-time contractors, The Carpet Factory services a number of local builders, the occasional school or commercial property, and of course, the local, rather discerning populace.

cutting and preparing jobs, and in the showroom. A virtual ‘jack of all trades,’ Darren has a thorough knowledge of all aspects of the trade. In his father’s later years, he would find himself more often than not managing the store when his dad went out to ‘do a measure’ with his golf clubs and did not return until the next day.

Darren heard a lot about the trade from his parents Don and Sue who owned the business, based at that time in nearby Northcote. When he was old enough he would go into the store on Saturday with Dad, to tidy up and arrange the displays.

His reward was to use the interlocking machine to make up a few carpets, until he broke enough needles that his dad stopped him. The day after his final school exam he started work full-time in the store, then based in the main street of Eltham.

The business had moved around since it was started in 1975, first to Greensborough, then Thomastown, back to Greensborough and then Eltham. The move to the current location happened when the building they were in was redeveloped. Darren bought the current premises in Brisbane Street only a few years ago. Don and Sue have since passed away; Don far too early and actually, while he was still working. Darren isn’t about to repeat history and plans to retire as early as possible.

In the early years, Darren worked both onsite with the install teams, in the warehouse

Below: Darren Cardamone (right) with The Carpet Factory team member Jason.

It's in this slightly upmarket suburb that Darren operates a modest flooring outlet tucked away behind a Bunnings store just off the main street in Eltham. There are some unique challenges but Darren’s lifestyle

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Retailer of the Month Of course, he still enjoys the job, and it shows.

Before the interview and before Darren knew who I was, I was able to see him ‘at work’ with a customer. His easy-going style; his ability to let the customer speak without interrupting; his willingness to listen and respond respectfully; his friendly demeanour and eagerness to get his customer exactly what she wanted, was a perfect demonstration of why he and Ellen are successful in a location most would not think ideal.

As an independent Darren works closely with the suppliers, buying products his customers want, and specials that more likely suit his builder’s clients. He says, “There’s not a week goes by that we don’t find ourselves doing a job for someone we know. Eltham is really a country town, and everyone knows everyone else. If we do a bad job, everyone knows about it.” Of being Behind a Bunnings Store he says, “Back here, people have to find you and the upshot is when they do, they usually walk out the store having bought something.”

23

Darren isn’t tech-savvy and admits it’s an issue, but says, “People still need to touch the product, to feel it and imagine it inside their home. We get a lot of referrals on Facebook but apart from that we think there’s a lot to be concerned about Doctor Google. If you want to read a bad review, go online. Satisfied customers don’t usually post how wonderful the service was. Only unsatisfied customers punish you with a poor review. We actually don’t even have a web page and aren’t even open all the time, but a mobile phone is a great tool, we are constantly in touch with all our customers.

Another issue with the web is that people come into the store with preconceived opinions about everything. Darren recalls, “I’m told things about flooring products I never even knew about, and I’ve been in the industry almost twenty years now. I was in the store one day and a customer said a few things about a particular product. My rep was with me at the time and said he had never heard that; and that the product was their best-selling carpet in Australia!”

Darren supports several local Aussie-rules football clubs financially and does some coaching, something his dad started when he was in business. He likes the horse racing and often meets with his ‘punters club’ for a coffee and small wager. He plays some golf with the local RSL club and admits his greatest handicap are his clubs. Occasionally

he can be found down at Cowes on Phillip Island where he owns a holiday home with his younger sister, Kate, although that has been difficult the last few years because of travel restrictions.

Just prior to this interview, Ellen and Darren brought their daughter Piper into the world, joining their son, Lachlan who is eight. Darren says Lachlan or maybe even Piper could take over the business one day.

It’s a business Darren loves; despite being told by his father’s associates not to get involved. Running the business on their own means they take responsibility for their work directly on themselves, there is no one else to blame. It’s created a business where personal customer service means everything.

To the benefit of their customers, The Carpet Factory is small, by design.

Australia's only complete underlay company Residential • Commercial • Hard Flooring Underlays

www.airstep.com.au 1800 803 545

24 Flooring adhesives - solutions for all flooring applications

Feature

Article by Brent Cartwright, RLA Flooring Business Manager

I

n a sector that is evolving to the latest trends and the requirements of a market that is attentive to detail, choosing the right adhesive is fundamentally important in achieving a quality flooring installation.

Today there are a variety of adhesives available, due to technical and commercial advances in the floorcovering industry.

It has never been more important to consider the chemistry of both the adhesive and the floorcoverings being bonded and also the environmental landscape of the installation.

With the exception of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a successful installation relies upon 100% adhesive transfer to the back of the floorcovering. Important factors can determine a successful installation such as, using the correct adhesive, sufficient adhesive, correct trowel size, and the use of the correct roller.

The greater the transfer the better the bond.

Installing flooring into a wet film of adhesive delivers the desired bonding outcome, compared to installing into a dry adhesive film. It is essential the appropriate amount of adhesive is applied. Most complaints and problems we visit are because of this and would not have happened if the correct adhesive and amount had been used.

Subfloor preparation is also paramount.

The workings of an adhesive will only be as good as the subfloor it is bonding to. For this reason, it is paramount that all surfaces to be bonded shall be absorbent, dry, smooth, sound and clean.

Above: (From top) RLA Resilient Adhesives being applied; Transfer of adhesive film onto floorcoverings.

Flooring February/March 2022

RLA offer a diverse range of high-quality flooring adhesives, providing solutions for all flooring applications.

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Feature

25

In today’s market there are a variety of carpet tiles and pressure sensitive adhesives for the installation of carpet tiles typically installed into commercial spaces. The adhesive provides a permanent tacky film with excellent shear strength and low peel strength, allowing for removal and replacement of carpet tiles.

The term resilient coverings generally refers to floor and wall coverings made from PVC, Linoleum or Rubber. One of the characteristics from the floorcovering is a firm resilience and you will often find these types of floorcoverings in healthcare and educational environments. The range of RLA resilient adhesives provide a universal approach with excellent plasticiser resistance and non-staining properties and cure to provide a permanent hard bond securing a range of floorcoverings to the substrate.

Above: Surface preparation – achieving a dry smooth sound and clean substrate.

28

Rubber

Linoleum Adhesive

Laminates

Entrance Matting

Engineerd Boards

Concrete

Carpet Tiles

Carpets

Category

Product Code

900150

RLA Carept Tile PS Adhesive

Forbo 615 Low VOC Conductive Linoleum Adhesive

615 3757 13652

SLC ECO R3 BIOGEL EXTREME

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 555 Polyurethane Adhesive

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

R285-15

R555-5

R285 -15

R2000-15

R6355-5

RL1018-310ml

RLA 1018 Polyurethane Adhesive -310ml

Roberts 6355 Cross Linking PVA Adhesive

RL1001-15

R48-5

Roberts Universal Primer RLA SMP Timber Flooring Adhesive

14455

RLA WPM Moisture Seal Barrier

RMS-15

900110

RLA 999 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

Roberts 420 Medi Seal

R640-15

R656-15 Roberts 640 HS Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

Roberts 656 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

Forbo F41 Low VOC Linoleum Adhesive F41 - Australian Made

13245

900160

RLA Carpet Adhesive

R444-15

R100-15

Roberts 100 Carpet Adhesive

Roberts 444 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

R95-15

R85-15

Product Code

Roberts 95 Carpet Adhesive

Roberts 85 Fast Tack Carpet Adhesive

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

L34 HYBRID

13245

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

L34 HYBRID

10061

3761

SLC ECO SP70

GRINTACK

7646

3757

SLC ECO R3

ECO TACK

3759

SLC ECO GRINKOL

Product Name

rlapolymers.com.au

www.kerakoll.com.au Product Code

1800 242 931

03 9448 8588

Product Name

RLA Polymers Pty Ltd

Kerakoll Pty Ltd

614

Forbo 611 Low VOC Linoleum Adhesive

F54

Forbo Fix F54 Adhesive - Australian Made

PS1

PS1 Forbo Fix - Australian Made

640

F54

Forbo Fix F54 Adhesive - Australian Made

640 Eurostar Special

640

Product Code

Forbo 640 Eurostar Special

Product Name

www.forbo-flooring.com.au

www.classic-arch.com

Product Name

1800 224 471

1300 244 377

Contact Number

Website

Forbo Flooring Systems Aust/NZ

Classic Architectural Group

Company Name

Wood/Hardwood

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl Sheet

Vinyl Planks

Stair Nosings

CA290 Adhesive

Spray Adhesive 77

Classic Tredfx CA290 Instant Grab Construction Adhesive

3M Spray Adhesive 77, Multi-purpose, Fast Drying

F34

Forbo F34 Permanent Bond Tile and plank adhesive

641

Forbo 641 Low Emmission Conductive Adhesive

640

F54

Forbo Fix F54 Adhesive - Australian Made

Forbo 640 Eurostar Special

640

F34

Forbo F34 Permanent Bond Tile and plank adhesive

Forbo 640 Eurostar Special

640

Forbo 640 Eurostar Special

13245 13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

L34 HYBRID

3757

3756

13652

3757

SLC ECO R3

SLC ECO 45/3

BIOGEL EXTREME

SLC ECO R3

3756

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

SLC ECO 45/3

3757

3756

13652

SLC ECO R3

SLC ECO 45/3

BIOGEL EXTREME

RL1000-14

RLA Hybrid Resilient Flooring Adhesive

900100 900120

RLA 265 Vinyl Adhesive RLA Vinyl Plank Adhesive

900100 900130

RLA 265 Vinyl Adhesive RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive

900110 900130

RLA 999 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive

RL1018-310ML R60-500ml

RLA 1018 Polyurethane Adhesive -310ml RLA Tru- Grip

RL1001-15

R285-15

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

RLA SMP Timber Flooring Adhesive

R2000-15

R280-15 Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 280 HT Vinyl Plank Adhesive

R656-15

R18-10

Roberts Conductive Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 656 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

R200-15

R2000-15 Roberts 200 Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

R285-15

R200-15

Roberts 200 Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

R280-15

R2000-15

Roberts 280 HT Vinyl Plank Adhesive

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

R285-15

900130

RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

R2000-15

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

Feature

28 have enabled RLA to provide a range of Australian made and developed Pressure Sensitive Adhesive that can tolerate high RH (moisture) and pH (alkalinity).

RLA has also recently released a range of SMP Adhesives (also Australian made and developed) for the Timber and Resilient flooring sectors that are Low VOC and Isocyanate free. These adhesives provide better quality pathways offering a comprehensive and innovative complete system.

Above: Dry and clean substrate RLA also has a high temperature resistant water-based adhesive for the installation of vinyl planks and tiles specifically recommended for use in areas such as bay windows, and other areas that are exposed to direct sun light.

There are a variety of commercial carpets on the market. Commercially, carpet is commonly installed by way of Direct Stick or Dual Bond method, and you will often find these in accommodation and entertainment environments.

RLA offer a range of water-based carpet adhesives for the installation of woven, tufted backed and needle punch carpets. RLA’s range of carpet adhesives exhibit a strong tacky film of adhesive that is suitable for bonding carpets in both Double Bond and Direct Stick installations.

We spend most of our time in closed environments and we need to be conscious of the environment around us, ensuring it does

Flooring February/March 2022

not have a negative impact on our wellbeing and health.

RLA continually review all environmental aspects and impacts across its operations for opportunities of improvement to increase sustainable development, efficiency of operations and reduce environmental impacts.

In today’s environment raw material selection for current product ranges and new product development are key. Wherever possible RLA formulate products with low VOC, low odour constituents and consistently innovate by researching methods to adopt the input of post-consumer content.

RLA does not formulate with banned or restricted substances in accordance with the Stockholm Convention, Rotterdam Convention and the Montreal Protocol.

Innovation and continuing to evolve is paramount. Technological advances in both organic and inorganic technologies

Technological advances in both organic and inorganic technologies have enabled RLA to provide a range of Australian made and developed Pressure Sensitive Adhesive that can tolerate high RH (moisture) and pH (alkalinity).

Green chemistry and sustainability are guiding principles of RLA’s innovation program. RLA have proudly been associated with Green Tag with its Green Solution range since 2014. Throughout 2021 RLA re-certified a nominated range of Roberts flooring adhesive products that have achieved Green Tag certification under the latest Version 4.0 standard. RLA will soon launch its Green Tag complete flooring system solution from moisture suppression products, subfloor primers, SLC’s and adhesives. web www.rlypolymers.com.au

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Introducing our NEWEST most dynamic and energising homogeneous flooring collection.

SMART PUR protection Advanced surface finish to ensure highest resistance to chemicals, scratches and stains, providing easy floor care

Premium homogeneous Manufactured in our new state-of-the-art facility using the latest technology that delivers superior performance

Creating better environments Phthalate free, low in emissions, Best Practice PVC and Green Tag certified using 100% green electricity in a zero waste environment

Discover the playful Sphera Energetic homogeneous collection by scanning the QR code or visit www.forbo-flooring.com.au

creating better environments

Feature

30

It only works if it sticks - some quick adhesive tips Conduct an adhesive bond test and discover why adhesive bond failure could occur.

By definition: a bond failure will occur when the test pieces are removed.

The specific nature of the failure will vary depending on the type of substrate, applied surface coatings e.g., cementitious smoothing compound, curing compound/ parting agent, type of adhesives used, and the types of material being installed.

To conduct an adhesive bond test: • Adhere pieces of the same material being installed approximately 500 mm x 500 mm in size to a prepared substrate that is in accordance with AS 1884-2021.

• Bond the squares to the substrate using the correct adhesive and adhesive trowel notch that is to be used with the floorcovering and the adhesive.

• Place the test pieces into the wet adhesive, roll the pieces with a heavy roller before the adhesive has skinned off.

The number of tests required will vary but should be representative of evaluating the entire surface where the material will be installed. Allow the adhesive to dry for approximately 72 hrs. and then remove the test pieces by hand, do not remove by mechanical force.

In general, all components of the installation system should be securely bonded to one another in a manner that will provide satisfactory performance for the intended application and material warranty.

Interpreting the results of a bond test will depend on the specific characteristics of the installation system components and therefore should focus on two main areas.

1) The amount of force required to manually remove the test sample.

2) Where within the system the failure occurred?

The bond failure should occur within what would be considered the weakest component of the installation system, which, will vary depending on the specific characteristics of the components involved. The specific amount of manual force that should be required cannot be measured quantitatively but should be judged adequate to provide satisfactory performance for the intended application. If the force required to remove the test material is such that the system bond would be judged inadequate the system integrity should be questioned and the cause of the weakness identified.

When small amounts of the adhesive remain intact on the substrate and yet well bonded to the back of the finished material an

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Feature

31

unseen contaminant may be present on the substrate (curing compound/parting agent, penetrative moisture barriers or sealer).

When the adhesive is well bonded to a coating (e.g., cementitious smoothing compound) but the coating releases from the substrate there may be a problem with the bond of the coating to the substrate.

When using Forbo adhesives to bond linoleum and all ranges including Forbo acoustic underlayment to a substrate and the bond fails between the substrate, the applied adhesive and the floorcoverings, it could be the result of the following: • Subfloor curing compound in place on the slab and not mechanically removed • Substrate moisture or alkalinity or both • Worn or wrong trowel notch • Not applying enough adhesive to the substrate • Not placing and rolling the material soon enough to achieve enough wet transfer to the material backing • The adhesive has skinned off prior to placing the flooring into the adhesive • Not ensuring the material remained in full contact with the adhesive as it dried

Flooring February/March 2022

A lack of adhesive transfer to the back of the material could be the result of the following:

In all cases it is the responsibility of the installer to identify and correct potential problems in order to ensure that a satisfactory bond can be achieved prior, during and completion of the installation.

• Worn or wrong trowel notch • Not applying enough adhesive to the substrate • Not placing and rolling the material into the wet adhesive to achieve enough wet transfer to the material backing.

• The adhesive has skinned off prior to placing the flooring into the adhesive • Not ensuring the material remained in full contact with the adhesive as it dried web www.forbo-flooring.com.au

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Talking Business

32

Australian FloorStyle has massive expansion plans

D

avid Wicks, Australian FloorStyle Executive Director says that the Cooperative are looking to rapidly expand in 2022 and beyond and have set a target of reaching one hundred members by the end of 2023.

“We offer the lowest joining fee, the lowest membership fees and the highest rebates in the industry” says David. “We also return all our profits over operating costs to our members and are owned by our members, so everyone within the Group is focused on, and benefits from our success. We keep our central overheads to a minimum; however, we invest wisely to ensure we maximise on every cent we spend. The key to our success is delivering our members maximum returns, in terms of sales, revenue, pricing, rebates and dividends.”

David says it is not just members that Australian FloorStyle are looking to expand “We are also looking to expand our bespoke range of carpets that are manufactured by our key suppliers exclusively for us; in addition, we are adding other flooring products to our bespoke range, such as luxury vinyl planks. Indeed, we have a new exclusive product coming out in the next few weeks, called Sanctuary, which is manufactured on our behalf by NFD.” David adds, “Historically not all exclusive products were available to all our members, however that is changing, a condition of supplying exclusive products to us moving forward, will be that all our members can access them.”

In addition, David says that Australian FloorStyle are looking for new key supplier partnerships. “We have great relationships and partnerships with the vast majority

Flooring February/March 2022

of quality flooring manufacturers in Australia, however there are a couple of key targets we will look to speak with this year, to see if we can agree a mutually beneficial relationship moving forward.

Over the last 2 years we have cut off the long tail of smaller suppliers that existed historically, every supplier relationship that remains is now truly key and that has created a bit of room to expand further in this area. We look to add significant value to all of our supplier relationships and collaborate closely to maximise our groups value to them.”

David finishes by saying, “There are a plethora of flooring groups in Australia, so we know that we have to be the best in the industry to set us apart, however we are also different to all the other groups;

our members retain their identity and independence, we are a cooperative not a franchise, so our members benefit from our success, not the Directors. This ensures that our members are invested in everything we do, we don’t need rules to ensure our members buy from our key suppliers, or need to tell them how their showroom should be presented, or what products they must stock, they do it all because they want to be part of our community and as equal owners of our Cooperative they benefit from making those decisions, without any interference being necessary from Head Office.”

If you want to join Australia’s most dynamic flooring cooperative and enjoy all the benefits of membership, contact us at sales@australianfloorstyle.com.au

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Enquire

0 2 9 6 0 0 9249

sales@australianfloorstyle.com.au Your Independent Flooring Retailer Cooperative

Special Offer

Please quote code: FMFeb/Mar22 to receive 25% off your joining fee and free membership until the end of the Financial Year, saving you up to $2,475 *offer expires 31st March 2022

Would you like to be part of one of Australia’s largest flooring cooperatives?

The Australian FloorStyle Cooperative is an established group with 54 members and 67 stores across Australia.

We offer independent flooring retailers, and those who would like to regain their independence, all the benefits of being part of a group, without you losing your independence or identity.

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SMALL JOINING FEE LOW MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP FEES RETAIN YOUR INDEPENDENCE & IDENTITY A COOPERATIVE, NOT A FRANCHISE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES ENHANCED BUYING POWER

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We understand and respect that it’s your business, you run it your way and we will support you as required.

If you want to be part of group with low joining and membership fees, that returns its profits to its members, then Australian FloorStyle would be your perfect choice.

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ACCESS TO MAJOR SUPPLIERS AQUIRE A BESPOKE RANGE OF PRODUCTS MINIMAL CENTRALISED ADMIN OVERHEADS OWNED EQUALLY BY OUR FULL MEMBERS SUPPORT AND ADVICE QUARTERLY + ANNUAL REBATES PAID TO MEMBERS

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Talking Business

34

Kustom Timber’s new showroom Kustom Timber’s new Mornington showroom lays a solid foundation for experiential customer service.

Whilst the impeccable surface appeal of Kustom Timber’s new Mornington showroom distinguishes its visual allure, it’s the company’s innovative focus on touch and the contextual nature of its display furnishings that resonates with customers. The intuitive design sensibilities of Melbourne-based Studio Griffiths enables them to make informed selections via dynamic interaction within the minimal yet highly tactile warehouse setting.

Innovative pivoting display frames encasing hardwood selections at armsreach consolidate the integrity of Kustom Timber’s hardwood ranges, its unique custom stains (from beach house-style blondes to saturated mocha browns), premium oil and lacquer finishes and the craftsmanship of its carpentry via touch, sight and scent. Refined seating selections appointed throughout the vast space – from couches and armchairs to bar stools – further enable customers to appreciate the timber varieties laid underfoot from varying perspectives, aiding visualisation of them within furnished domestic or commercial settings.

Photography by Lillie Thompson

“We offer five distinct engineered hardwood collections and over 35 unique shades and finishes. These customised elements are devised in-house to maintain optimum consistency between colour batches and surface patinas with the option to create bespoke tones if requested. It was imperative to highlight this via unique display mechanisms, distinguishing our showroom from those of other flooring specialists. Our Mornington space enables us to convey the ‘big picture’ of our offering like an all surround giant timber jigsaw. It’s no wonder Studio Griffiths were shortlisted for an Australian Interior Design Award in the retail category this year.” Mark Chaz co-founder and co-director, Kustom Timber.

Photography by Lillie Thompson

Flooring February/March 2022

A taut orthogonal skin of charcoal timber battens clad the façade, organically embracing KT’s key offering. Within the soaring setting, integrated battens frame the showroom’s displays to convey a sense of intimacy via their dado line that aligns with curtain rods plus the rim of the oyster grey wall framing the pivot screens. They

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Talking Business

35

dually cosy the double-height space whilst concealing amenities and back-of-house services.

“The showroom’s main objective was to effectively display the timber floorboards utilising horizontal and vertical planes.

Our key innovation was inspired by the classic swivel mirror to develop the timber display pivot screens encased in blackened steel to create a repetitious rhythm within and a sense of three dimensionality which tends to be lacking in most timber flooring showrooms. A magnetic attachment mechanism also enables staff to speedily interchange the panels to exhibit differently laid patterns, textural woodgrains and tonal finishes which are conveniently stored on the premises.” Gillianne Griffiths, Creative Director Studio Griffiths

example, is available in four different widths whilst Como’s extra-long and wide planks cater to larger spaces. Collection names and finishes laser-cut into steel plaques and adhered to the timber enable customers to instantly familiarise themselves with their preferred tonal selections.

Kustom Timber proudly offer a 25-year structural guarantee and a 10-year installation warranty for our flooring installations which is pretty impressive, so the bronze floor trims and customised name plates really augment their offering.

Photography by Lillie Thompson

Given the showroom’s abundant footprint, customers can also fully comprehend the scale ratios of various floorboards given that the Habitat range of European Oak, for

Kustom Timber’s Mornington showroom is the company’s second retail offering, with its founding showroom located in South Yarra.

SureBoard® Ply

Vinyl Underlay

• High density A smooth surface to surface resists install sheet vinyl, tile impact and plank over timber, • Larger panel plywood or particleboard installs quicker sub-floors. than Hardboard

Not recommended over porous or unsealed concrete, or where the sub-floor is below grade.

1.22m x 1.1m

SureBoard® Ply SBP-130 • Dimensionally very stable • No surface defects or knots

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BBS Flooring Products

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Safety

36

Pantone Colour of the Year 2022 - inspires new beginnings

T

aking inspiration from diverse industries, from entertainment to fashion and technology, Pantone’s Colour of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions for over 23 years. Combing the world for new colour trends, Pantone’s colour experts follow a thorough selection process that requires careful consideration and analysis.

Pantone’s 2022 Colour: PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri Encompassing blues with a violet-red undertone, Veri Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expressions. This pays ode to how the pandemic has led to our physical and digital lives merging, encouraging us to explore and manifest new possibilities.

With trends in gaming, the expanding popularity of the metaverse and rising artistic community in the digital space PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri illustrates the fusion of modern life and how colour trends in the digital world are being manifested in the physical world and vice versa.

Above: Pantone Colour of the Year - Very Peri The complexity of this new red-violet infused blue hue highlights our ability to reach beyond the realms of reality, recognising colour as an important form of communication and expression.

Classic Architectural Group can custom colour match your requirements to any Pantone colour

Leading the way in architecturally designed floor and stair safety solutions, the team at Classic Architectural Group diligently stays on top of the latest industrial and design trends. With continual research and innovation, they offer a diverse array of products to complement both classic and 38 contemporary applications.

Above: Pantone colours Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

FLOORING MAGAZINE IS PROUDLY CELEBRATING

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers and partners for their continued support.

We have some exciting features scheduled for 2022 including:

Feb/Mar Apr/May Jun/Jul Aug/Sep Oct/Nov Dec/Jan

Adhesive Guide Australian Made Eco & Environmentally Friendly Floors Resilient Flooring Buy Local Carpets & Woven Flooring

Safety

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Their current offering includes stair nosing inserts in the blue and violet families, please see below for examples. However, they can assist you with any level of customisation that is required – including this year’s Pantone colour ‘Very Peri’.

Above: Classic Tredfx Brass Stair Nosing with Black Insert, Dark Grey Insert, Mid Grey Insert and Light Grey Insert .

They also have stair nosing inserts in neutral colours to complement your chosen focal colours for other hardware or soft furnishings, ensuring seamless integration with your project goals.

Above: Classic Tredfx Brass Stair Nosing with Blue Insert (top) and Ultra Violet Insert.

Classic can colour match your products to any Pantone colour – they can do this across their stair nosing inserts, tactile indicator inserts, and in the case of polyurethane TSGI’s, they can make the entire tactile your chosen colour.

Talk to Classic Architectural Group about your stair and floor safety needs From design to installation and maintenance, Classic Architectural Group is committed to seeing your project the whole way through. Specialising in public access and safety solutions, you can lean on their 40+ years of experience to get you a step ahead. www.classic-arch.com

CLASSIC ARCHITECTURAL GROUP CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF CHAMPIONING FLOOR SAFETY

Supply & install Australia-wide Floor safety solution includes stair nosings, tactiles & entrance matting AS1428 & NCC compliant Quick quote turnaround Estimates & take-offs

Don’t put a foot wrong, contact us today.

Call 1300 244 377 www.classic-arch.com

Insurance Matters

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Your industry – your insurance – your insurance broker

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loorInsure offer a complete range of insurance policies for anyone in the flooring profession with advice tailored to your flooring business.

It pays to have a local insurance expert who knows your business on your side.

If you are a flooring retailer, a commercial flooring supplier or retailer, a flooring contractor providing installation, restoration, cleaning or concrete polishing, warehousing, importing and logistics call FloorInsure and get a quote.

Protection that is right for you Experienced advice, credibility and knowledge. FloorInsure have extensive experience insuring carpet and specialty flooring retailers just like you.

Strength in Numbers Extremely competitive premiums and outstanding coverage and protection for every aspect of your flooring and carpet retailing business.

The whole secure package The best terms within the policy class, the best inclusions and endorsements, the most reasonable excesses all coupled with the most competitive premiums.

As well as the flooring industry’s allied businesses and flooring contractors, the team at FloorInsure have experience and understanding of the carpet and flooring industry allowing them to source policies specifically suited to your business with no cost additional covers, superior policy wordings and outstanding claims service from dedicated staff who understand your industry.

FloorInsure is a dedicated provider of insurances developed specifically to the flooring industry across Australia. If you operate a business involved in Flooring then talk to Australia’s only dedicated insurance broker, who knows your business and your insurance needs.

Your FloorInsure business package provides best in class insurances for all:

• • • •

Flooring and carpet retailers Flooring contractors in every trade Flooring equipment suppliers Flooring manufacturers, importers, and suppliers • Flooring warehousing and logistics • Flooring inspectors

FloorInsure will also ensure that you are fully protected from third party claims which maybe levelled at your business as a result of a contractor’s error or other party so you can rest assured knowing that your business, assets and personal financial security is protected.

A dedicated FloorInsure broker will advise on all aspects of insurance relevant to your business in the flooring game, insurance packs for flooring retailers, trade packs for all flooring contractors including public liability (with an option to include faulty workmanship), trade vehicles, sick and accident, tools of trade and more.

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

a dedicated industry insurance broker? that’s something to smile about…

Tailored insurance for Flooring & Carpet Retailers Our experience and understanding of carpet and flooring retailers allows us to provide policies specifically suited to your business, with no cost additional covers, superior policy wordings and outstanding claims service from dedicated account managers who understand the flooring industry.

For more, call 1800 607 204 or visit floorinsure.com.au

Events & Exhibitions

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DesignBUILD returns in 2022

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unning from the 10th to the 12th of May 2022 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, DesignBUILD will reunite Australia’s architecture, building, construction and design communities in one essential event.

New to the event in 2022, DesignBUILD will be co-locating with the nation's leading event for the Facilities Management industry Total Facilities (TFX), and the Be Summit, a one-day conference featuring Government and market experts discussing the future of our built environments. The event has been reimagined with a renewed focus on showcasing the best of quality Australian brands, products and sustainable solutions, giving industry professionals an exclusive chance to discover new markets, create new opportunities and build connections across the entire building life cycle.

Flooring Magazine recently sat down with two of this year’s exhibitors, Utecture Australia an exciting new digital building cloud-based platform and Market Timbers who specialise in flooring and timber

Above: MATO - Burwood Brickworks Flooring February/March 2022

Above: ESSENCE - Originals Natural supplies, and asked them to give their perspective on how they have seen the industry and their business change over the last few years.

1. Given the events of the last 1218 months, how have you seen the building and construction industry change and adapt?

Scott Palmer, Utecture Australia

The last 12-18 months have been some of the most challenging in the construction industries history. As countries across the globe introduced lockdowns and other restrictions, the pace of change for all participants across the value chain from designers, consent authorities, contractors and suppliers, has been extreme, with many having to change working environments and policy overnight.

The industry has had to complete existing projects while at the same time protect staff, comply with changing government regulations and travel restrictions, as well as manage supply chain interruptions and project suspensions. Thankfully, the construction industry is very good at adapting quickly and implementing various continuity strategies which has placed construction companies in good stead during the pandemic, and will remain vital in as we continue to stabilise through continued volatility and prolonged supply 44 chain disruption in the future.

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Events & Exhibitions

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Above: John Holland - Cork Pure Light One area of permanent change is that the pandemic has made the industry think hard about how technology can be used to enable employees and maintain predictability and reduce risk. Whilst technology, and its application in construction, has been a conversation and debate, we now see this is at the forefront of company’s innovation strategies, as well as BAU operations.

Gary Vogel, Market Timbers

Initial talks of lockdowns were of great concern. However, construction was deemed an essential service and we were allowed to continue trading albeit with some restrictions.

As architects, builders, and the public were unable to visit our showroom many decisions about product choice were delayed.

However, the use of online Zoom and Skype meetings increased.

As a consequence of both Jobkeeper and Cash flow Boost, many businesses and households ended up with substantial savings with which they indulged in online shopping.

Flooring February/March 2022

2. What do you think the path of recovery looks like moving forward for the wider industry and businesses? How can we expect the industry to bounce back?

Gary Vogel, Market Timbers

We are already experiencing a substantial recovery, on the back of lower interest rates - meaning greater savings, which we expect should hold at least into the first six to nine months of 2022.

3. How has your business adapted to the change we are seeing, especially given the growing popularity of digital technologies within the sector in Australia?

Scott Palmer, Utecture Australia

Here are few areas where change and adaption have occurred and how we are, and expect to, see the industry responding.

Resilience and collaboration In the last 12-18 months the industry has seen much stronger collaboration through the value chain, including with

unions, suppliers, and government bodies.

There is a stronger sense of unity and less adversity. The acknowledgment of a shared environmental problem has resulted in a broader understanding of the common objective of delivering projects and keeping building sites open.

The pandemic amplified inefficiencies in the traditional approach to risk - where risks are passed down the supply chain – and has accelerated a movement toward strategic partnerships in the supply chain where risk is shared in exchange for predictability and certainty.

Technology platforms, like Utecture, are enabling these types of ‘horizontal’ collaboration where data and information can be shared, and participants are collaborating live in a single cloud ecosystem Balance sheet and liquidity Liquidity and estimating accuracy have been vital. So, maintaining efficiency through sales, unambiguous contracts, accurate and reliable cost estimates, are all critical to 46 maintaining margins.

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Events & Exhibitions balance sheets to pre purchase inventory, reduce supply chain risk, reduce cost of sales, add strategic partnerships and investment in technology.

Innovation and Security An amplified focus on environmental, social, and corporate governance for the industry, will continue to drive innovation agendas.

For most, technology and digitisation will be a key strategic pillar for many contractors.

Above: Cork Wise Traces Tea - Mirosuna Balance sheet innovation has been and will continue to be an area of focus for the construction industry. This will include traditional area of focus, such as cost budget accuracy, but also in using assembling

In the last 18 months, contractors have had to devise alternative ways to work and remain productive. However, the widespread surge in remote working and sales induced by the pandemic has created various security implications for contractors. These include protecting new connectivity options, considering the security of devices outside

46 the safety of protected office environments, and better managing device policies.

New ways of working have resulted in an increased reliance on collaboration tools, and cloud technology.

These adjustments have rapidly altered contractors’ security architecture, with many companies accelerating their digital processes adopting new technology in the space of months that would have normally taken years.

Gary Vogel, Market Timbers

We are investing more heavily in digital marketing, and social media.

4. What exactly are buyers now looking for in their purchase decisions? Are there new trends we can expect for 2022?

Above: Concrete Grey, Concrete Urban, Stone Inspire Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Events & Exhibitions

47 Gary Vogel, Market Timbers

The major trend has been towards the use of sustainable products including our carbon negative cork flooring, wall linings, and cladding.

5. What do you expect to see at DesignBUILD in 2022, can you give us a sneak peek into what visitors can expect to see from you?

Scott Palmer, Utecture Australia

We will be showing the very latest in residential design, price and visualise technology developed over 6 years to enable the real-time design and pricing of residential housing straight from the cloud. The Utecture platform enables residential building companies to rapidly change and price plans (with updated, real-time 3D renders) resulting in a significant reduction in the time required to close sales.

Gary Vogel, Market Timbers

Our focus will be on our 'Green' cork products.

Above: Utecture house plans Scott Palmer, Utecture Australia

Purchasers expect the same level of independent decision making and transparency as they have been able to achieve in other transactions in their life.

Platform technology has offered complete transparency and optionality, and online purchasing and sales in many other industries with the pandemic only accelerating this desire and need.

Both Utecture Australia and Market Timbers will be exhibiting at DesignBUILD this year, head to the website for more information and registration details. https:// designbuildexpo.com.au/

Below: Utecture floor plan

The rise of the educated customer in many other industries means that customers are well informed and researched before they make a purchasing decision. In home building, this means that purchasers want to trust the information being provided, access additional information remotely at times that are convenient, and real time, be able to visualise and understand what is being offered, and have engaged or disengaged with human consultants at their discretion.

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Events & Exhibitions

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DOMOTEX 2023 DOMOTEX will take place in January 2023 The next DOMOTEX will take place from the 12th to the 15th of January 2023. By retaining the established date right at the beginning of the year, Deutsche Messe AG is responding to the wishes of the majority of the market and creating planning security for exhibiting companies and trade show attendees.

Hannover. The next edition of DOMOTEX, the leading trade show for carpets and floor coverings, will take place in Hannover from the 12th to the 15th of January 2023.

The decision on the date in January 2023 was taken following intensive market discussions. DOMOTEX will be a face-to-face event with additional digital offerings. This means that all participants will once again have the platform they have been longing

Flooring February/March 2022

for, for networking and to exchange ideas on a personal level. Exhibiting companies and trade show guests from all over the world will be able to exchange information on new products and current trends in the industry both onsite and virtually.

"With a new date for DOMOTEX in January 2023, we want to give the players in the carpet and floor coverings industry the greatest possible long-term planning security. We want to give our customers the opportunity to finally meet in person again,

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Events & Exhibitions

to be inspired and to forge new business relationships," says Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director DOMOTEX, Deutsche Messe AG, Hannover. "Having already had to cancel DOMOTEX twice due to the pandemic, we would have liked to give the industry its platform again this year. However, after

intensive discussions with exhibiting companies, unfortunately a majority couldn’t be found for a late summer edition of DOMOTEX in September 2022. The preferred option of the entire market is to keep the usual date right at the beginning of the year."

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"It is particularly pleasing to see the approval already given by exhibitors and global brands, who are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to finally meet the industry again," says Wedell-Castellano. "Exhibitors and visitors can look forward to an extensive program with innovative ideas and digital offerings. To be able to meet the world of carpets and floor coverings live in Hannover again in January 2023 is a real highlight after all this time. We are looking forward to finally getting back on track with DOMOTEX in Hannover."

DOMOTEX Worldwide DOMOTEX Turkey, the leading trade show for carpets and floor coverings in Turkey and the Middle East, will take place in Gaziantep from May the 14th to the 17th, 2022. DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, the international trade show for carpets and floor coverings in the Asia-Pacific region, will take place from May the 25th to the 27th, 2022 in Shanghai, at the NECC site.

Flooring February/March 2022

www.flooringmagazine.com.au

Advertisers Index Airstep Australia

22, 23

Andersens Floor Covering

19

Australian Floor Style

33

Australian Select Timbers

BBS Flooring Products

Classic Architectural Group

5

PUBLISHERS Georgia Gilmour georgia@elitepublishing.com.au Michelle Cammiade michelle@elitepublishing.com.au

35

EDITOR Michelle Cammiade michelle@elitepublishing.com.au

38

EC Carpets

7

Floorcovering Institute of Australia (FCIA)

15

Forbo Flooring Systems

29

GMK Logistics

45

Godfrey Hirst

Ian Jones

Konekt Flooring Australia

Inside Front Cover, Inside Back Cover

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9

Laser Measure

43

Oxtek Solutions

13

Polivac International

11

RFMS Australasia

RLA Polymers

Sterling Supplies

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CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Philip Ashley philipneilashley6@bigpond.com ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Sandie Velkovska sandie@elitepublishing.com.au CIRCULATION For circulation enquiries please email: info@elitepublishing.com.au PRODUCTION For artwork and production enquiries please email: production@elitepublishing.com.au PRE-PRESS Prominent Digital PRINTED BY Prominent Group Pty Ltd 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.

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18, 19

Front Cover, Back Cover

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Gem II Featured: Gem II in Jewel

Adding polish to any commercial project, Gem II delivers the goods. Made from our Straton Plus® solution dyed nylon, these Australian Made carpet tiles are available in seven colourways; each solid base shade overlaid by contrast grid lines for a standout effect.

Rated Contract Extra Heavy Duty & Stairs, and featuring the trusted Enviro Bac® backing system, Gem II tiles are Declare Red List Free and come with the maximum Green Star level 4 ECS rating by the Carpet Institute of Australia.

SM

Teaming our carpet tile products like Gem II with our FlexLok® tab system, allows for a flexible, fast and fuss-free installation solution.

This dry installation system can be used on any substrate, virtually eliminates VOC’s, is Declare Red List Free, CRI Green Label Plus certified and comes with a Health Product Declaration. Creating healthier, environmentally friendly interiors, has never been easier.

Contact your GH Commercial Consultant to learn more for your next project.

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