VOL 29.5 July/August 2011 R38 incl. VAT
Wood, laminates & bamboo • Sticky side of flooring • Concrete floor design Value for money options • SA students’ best in the world • Insight into wine cellars
REFERENCE Guide
COVER STORY Professional choice TAL is the professional choice when it comes to tiling. It is a leading supplier of tile adhesives, primers, additives, grouts, screeds, waterproofing, floor repair compounds and tiling tools and therefore a one-stop-shop for tiling solutions. TAL is changing its product packaging to simplify the selection process for the end-user and tiling contractor. Its packaging may be changing, but customers can still expect the same reliable, top quality products that they’ve come to trust from TAL. See pages 54-57 in this issue.
29
49
63
81
Access Flooring Peter Bates Flooring
p15, p79, p92
Adhesives / Coatings FloorworX
p61
TAL
Front Cover, p54-55
Zimbo’s Trading
p5
Carpets Belgotex Floorcoverings
p2, 84-85
Nouwens Carpets
Inside Front Cover
Peter Bates Flooring
p15, p79, p92
Van Dyck
p6, p20-21
Ceramic, Porcelain and Stone Falcon Tiling Products Tiltoria
p45 Inside Back Cover
Cleaning & Maintenance
V OLUME 29.5
•
JULY/AUGUST
•
2011
FloorworX
p95
Matco Marketing
p23
Safic
p28
Sebo
p23
To page 5
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
3
Don’t miss the next issue of FLOORS in Africa! It has some rather special features that cover a wide range of floorcovering interest. Take a look below to see what you can expect:
Industrial flooring
This issue is dedicated to the hi-tech flooring solutions for the industrial sector. We will be taking a look at the latest projects and the unique range of products that have been customised for industrial flooring.
Cleaning & Maintenance & Repairs
Maintaining, cleaning and repairing floors are specialised services and once the product of choice has been issued and installed there are many after-installation facets to consider. How will the floor be maintained? What cleaning programmes should be adopted and what happens should repairs be needed? All these aspects affect the lifespan of the floor and should not be ignored. What does the industry have to offer? We will report back in this feature.
High-traffic areas
High-traffic areas demand floors that can handle high impact from the high flow of feet. If an application needs to handle 1000 footfalls per square metre per minute, what kind of floor will be considered? Airports, hotels, shopping centres, entertainment centres, theatres and restaurants need a specific set of technologies and products. We speak to some of the leaders in high-traffic flooring installations to find out what architects and designers need to know about these applications.
Roxanne Mancini: roxanne@mediainafrica.co.za
Tel: +27 12 347 7530
Joanna Papastamopoulos: joanna@mediainafrica.co.za
www.mediainafrica.co.za
Fax: +27 12 347 7523
REFERENCE Guide
Training & Skills Development Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy
continued from page 3
p90-91
Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
Industrial, Resin & Concrete Flooring abe Construction Chemicals
p78
Barrow Flooring
Cemcrete
p73
Bedson Flooring & Decor
Cement & Concrete Institute
p70
Ecostrong
Back Cover p35, p88-89 p41
p7
Floorquip
p11
Lafarge SA
p75
Floorworx
p38-39
Mapei
p62
Peter Bates Flooring
p15, p79, p92
Pharaoh Cement
p80
Rhoms Timberworld
p42-43
Flowcrete SA
Suntups Solid Wooden Flooring
p37
Sika
p67
Teragren
p47
Verni
p77
Traviata
p25
PMSA
p66, p68, p69, p71
Zimbo’s Trading
p5
Resilient Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings Peter Bates Flooring Polyflor SA
p2 p15, p79, p92 p26
Seamless Flooring Quartz Carpet
p3
Sports & Exterior Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings Van Dyck
Accessories and other Cersaie
p44
Decorex
p76
Falcon Tiling Products
p45
Genesis
p59
Kirk Marketing
p27
Pretoria Institute for Architecture
P97
SA Decor & Design p2 p6, p20-21
p98
Transiton Transport (Transportation)
p86-87
Note: Editorials excluded, listed in alphabetical order
Wood specifying
at its best! MEMBER
“TM”
S.A. WOOD & LAMINATE FLOORING ASSOCIATION
Cape Town +27 21 511-4693 | Johannesburg +27 11 794-1012 info@zimbostrading.co.za | www.zimbostrading.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
5
EDITORIAL Comment
Liezel van der Merwe
Roxanne Mancini
2011 officially sees itself entering into the second half of the year! For some it’s been a half year of new ways of thinking and doing business and for others it’s been just plain tough this year. Good news is that what you think and how you perceive things literally creates your reality. Choose a great outlook and your customers will react! Everybody likes to do business with happy, positive people – and, rest assured, there is business out there and people are spending money. The question you need to ask yourself is, ‘What can I change so that they will do business with me?’! In the next few pages you will find fresh new ideas, wellresearched articles and an insightful review on new products, trends, projects and much more information to benefit from. The old adage “knowledge is power” remains in today’s ever-changing markets. In this issue we focus on the following feature highlights not only to make note of but to inspire you into great ways of thinking about flooring: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo: Every year, this feature generates a lot of interest and feedback from industry and readers. We will be taking a look at new bamboo products, the latest developments in wood as well as the variety of laminates available in the flooring market. See more on page 29. Adhesives & Installation: It is essential for the flooring experts to keep up with pre-floor requirements as well as the installation methods in order to ensure that the floorcovering delivers on expectations. Adhesives used and installation methods carry a heavy weight when considering what floor to install. We look at the latest developments and techniques to keep them up to date. See more on page 49. Cement & Concrete: This smooth, liquid stone continues to provide durable and attractive floors. We will be looking for some of the most innovative cement and concrete technologies as well as the best and most recent projects. See more on page 63. Cost Effective Flooring: Developers and specifiers often have to stick to strict budgets, which isn’t always an easy task. We will be looking at economic alternatives and affordable solutions that give you the durability, look and quality application you need. See page 81. With the new Consumer Protection Act hot on everyone’s agenda I encourage you, if you haven’t already, to get to know how this act will affect the daily operation of your company as well as the exciting marketing messages you embark on. We are here to assist you with any queries. The next time we chat spring will be upon us presenting itself with a brand-new season of joy! Happy reading!
FLOORS is about ceramics, carpets, vinyls, wood, laminates, marble, granite, cement, stone ... any floor you can think of. It is also about accessories like rugs, adhesives and tools. Readers are welcome to contact us for any information. FLOORS is published six weekly by Media in Africa (Pty) Ltd. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We accept no responsibility for information published. PUBLISHER: Media in Africa (Pty) Ltd. Contact information: Tel (012) 347 7530 Fax (012) 347 7523 International: +27 e-mail: floors@mediainafrica.co.za PO Box 25260, Monument Park, 0105; Republic of South Africa Unit G, First Floor, Castle Walk Corporate Park, Cnr Nossob & Swakop Streets, Erasmuskloof Ext. 3, Pretoria, RSA
Founder: Schalk Burger
Editor: Liezel van der Merwe Cell 082 7700 799
Financial Director: Fanie Venter
Features & News Editor: Dave Soons Tel 012 807 7012
Business Unit Manager: Roxanne Mancini Cell 082 779 5751
Business Unit Co-ordinator: Madelein Smith
Client Support: Joanna Papastamopoulos Cell 072 300 0867
Design and Layout: Jakolien Strydom
Financial Manager: Gerda Bezuidenhout Liezel van der Merwe
Roxanne Mancini
EDITOR
BUSINESS UNIT MANAGER
Proofreader: Signa Evans
REPRO & PRINTING: Business Print Centre
OOP
Innovation & Design
UP STUDENTS A University of Pretoria (UP)
and nominated 24 projects for an award.
alumnus last week reaffirmed that graduates from
Ho Chang, announced the winners of the
winners. The chairman of the jury, Yung
the University’s Department of
Award at a ceremony with more than 450
Architecture are ranked amongst
Centre on 9 June 2011.
R
guests held in New York’s Guggenheim According to the jury: “The winning projects are related to the DNA of recognisable
uann van der Westhuizen, a
architects or architectural styles, but they
MArch(Prof ) graduate of UP’s 2009
are another evolutionary step beyond that
architecture studio, was announced as one of eight winners of the prestigious Hunter Douglas Award at Archiprix International 2011 that rewards the work of the world’s best graduates in architecture, urban design and landscape architecture. Archiprix International is an international network for young, talented architects throughout the world and biennially it invites 1 400 universities worldwide to select and submit their best graduation projects. For the 2011 edition held in the United States of America Archiprix International received over 300 projects from 70 countries, a new record number.
8
The jury reviewed all submitted projects
Out of these nominees they selected 8
the best in the world.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Best in the world!
Ruan van der Westhuizen
Innovation & Design
DNA, and stand out because of the authen-
Architecture graduates amongst the best in
tic voice of the individual designers and
the world. He added that the achievement
the clear positions they take. They are all
represented the collective dedication of the
very powerful projects and go beyond style.
staff and student body to excellence in the
What they have in common is poetics.”
built environment.
Van der Westhuizen’s dissertation,
This is the fourth major accolade award-
completed under study leader Jacques
ed to students of UP’s Department of
Laubscher and mentor Marianne de Klerk,
Architecture in the last 12 months. A year
achieved top honours in the Department
ago Jacques Orton’s electronic disserta-
in 2009.
tion received an international award from
It proposes a public bathhouse in the
the Networked Digital Library of Theses
Marabastad precinct in Tshwane and inves-
and Dissertations; in September 2010
tigates the ritual of cleansing in an urban
Carla Taljaard, Stephen Steyn and Warwick
environment, thereby celebrating a funda-
Manley won the national Murray & Roberts
mental human act. Informed by the context
Des Baker competition; and in February
and the potential of social integration, the
Jankel Nieuwoudt won the DesignHub
built form is layered to provide graded
Respond-Renew-Revitalise Competition
levels of privacy. The full document of his
sponsored by Saint Gobain, in which the
study is available at http://upetd.up.ac.za/
Department was also named best university
thesis/available/etd-1.
participant.
Laubscher, who also coordinated the
For further information: Ruann van der
2009 final-year studio, said that he believes
Westhuizen 082 825 9407 / e-mail:
this award once again positions UP’s
ruannvdw@gmail.com / nico.botes@up.ac.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
9
Innovation & Design
AWARDS
Nemeth & the Loeries
With the entries now closed for the 2011 Loerie Awards, FLOORS in Africa takes a look at the two top awards from the 2010 event – com-
Silver Loerie 2010: Circa on Jellicoe Art Gallery by studioMAS architecture & urban design.
mented on by eminent trend forecaster David Nemeth. The 2010
The Circa Gallery Extension is located in
Loeries attracted almost 3000 entries in all categories.
video installations and sculptures of large
Rosebank, Johannesburg, designed to display scale, and equipped to host art auctions. It consists of a flexible gallery space, business space, offices, storage, and a roof terrace, and was completed in November 2009. The façade of the building comprises anodised aluminium fins that combine with a green woven material. Natural light enters into the internal spaces while allowing views in and out of the gallery, which has a 85m² lounge opening onto a 20m² facing deck which provides views of Johannesburg on the third floor of this gallery. Dave Nemeth says: The oval shape of the Circa building with the shuttering-style cladding creates an immediate statement of being a modern design without replicating the kind of design we tend to see abroad. The shuttering has an African feel to it and the overall colouring blends in with the environment, yet still creating a major focal point. I particularly enjoyed the clever integration of nature into the architecture with the vertical gardens. The lighting of the building was also cleverly thought through, ensuring its creative visibility at night.
Grand Prix Loerie 2010: British Airways Slow Lounge by Tonic Design & Grid Worldwide Branding With the concept and design provided by Grid Worldwide Branding in collaboration with Tonic Design, this unique idea scooped the pool at the Loeries last year, as one of the four Grand Prix winners. Heidi Brauer, Comair’s Executive Manager for Group Marketing, said, “We are delighted with these awards that recognise the hard work and innovative thinking of our design teams.” “In an ever-accelerating world, the SLOW Lounge concept was inspired by the growing international trend towards appreciating life’s journey as much as achieving the end goal. The lounges are created from
Circa on Jellicoe Art Gallery
10
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
the customer’s point of view to ensure an
Innovation & Design
British Airways Slow Lounge exceptional experience before one even
Apple iMacs, a Nintendo games room, pri-
The overall feel of the interior has an
departs on one’s journey. In fact we had an
vate meeting spaces and business facilities.
immediate calming effect based on the
e-mail from a customer who said the only
In addition, each SLOW Lounge also con-
careful selection of materials and simple
problem with SLOW was that his flight left
tains an on-site spa offering massages and
clean lines, and the interior is rounded off
on time!� said Brauer.
wellness treatments.
by a very thoughtful and carefully planned
The SLOW airport lounges, situated in the Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town domestic terminals, provide a perfect
Dave Nemeth says:
use of lighting, further enhancing the
The Slow Lounge by Grid Worldwide
relaxed mood.
Branding and Tonic Design shows an
Overall these projects show a carefully
sanctuary from the fast pace of travel and
extremely successful collaboration between
planned thought process, although very
modern life.
two disciplines, namely graphics and inte-
different in approach and statement. We
rior design. I believe the future of design, as
see strong future trend elements coming
with many other disciplines, will be based
through in each project which allow these
on collaborative work.
to stand apart from current design ideals.
Features include a chef, a coffee barista, wine tasting from a monthly selection of
Importing
the finest South African wines, a library,
Create an impression
direct from Germany
Part of the Aluvert Group
Contact Lesinda on 011 624 2584 or Adele Grobler on 083 653 5301/ orders@floorquip.co.za F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
11
Insight: Wine Cellars
WINE CELLARS
Going the wine route!
On a recent sales visit to Cape Town, Joanna Papastamopoulos of
Jacob van Renen, son of Sebastiaan Valentijn van Renen (Snr). Sebastiaan Valentijn van Renen originally masterminded the wine-farming venture on High Constantia. Convinced
FLOORS in Africa took the opportunity to have a quick look at four of the
that the soil would be of the same excep-
most reputable wine estates in the area and, more specifically, what they
that the climate of the hills would give
tional quality as Groot Constantia’s and the wine its particular flavours, they
prefer for their floors.
planted 110 000 stocks of the Muscadel grape on the hillside. Shortly before Sebastiaan Valentijn van Renen died in May 1821, Jacob transferred the farm to his younger brother, Sebastiaan Valentijn Jnr who named the property ‘Sebastiaan’s High Constantia’. He soon established the reputation of his farm, and by 1827 its wine was commanding the same prices in England as wines from the already renowned Groot Constantia and De Hoop op Constantia. By 1841 Groot Constantia and High Constantia were the sole competitors in the area, Cloete relying on antiquity and tradition, Van Renen on his competitive prices. High Constantia, in its heyday, comprised three main buildings set amidst gardens, lawns and trees. Notable was a great oak near the cellar. In its branches was constructed a platform where family and friends took their ease.
. . . mystic interrelationship between earth and climate in the Constantia Valley.
On a small corner of the original land, David van Niekerk is restoring ‘High Constantia’ to its former winemaking glory. They are planting stocks and producing from their cellar (a structure that is reminiscent of High Constantia’s
Uitsig Constantia Winery clay brick tile entrance
S
they echo the gracious past of the forouth African winemaking has a history
Pontac, red and white Muscadel and a little
mer estate, give new life to the subtle
dating back to 1659 when it was instigat-
Chenin Blanc.
flavours born of the mystic interrelation-
ed by Jan van Riebeeck, the founder of Cape
Joanna’s ‘mini-survey’ started at High
Town, and at one time Constantia was consid-
Constantia in Cape Town, which is being
ered one of the greatest wines in the world.
restored to its former winemaking glory
On 2 February 1659 Jan van Riebeeck produced the first wine recorded in South Africa. In 1685, the Constantia estate was established
ship between earth and climate in the Constantia Valley. Joanna says, “My visit here was very
under David van Niekerk and wines are
short and there was no one available
once again issuing from its cellar.
to show me around, but the flooring
Established in 1693, High Constantia
throughout was squared clay tiles which
in a valley facing False Bay by the Governor
Winery began its historic journey as part
are reputed to help with cleaning the
of the Cape, Simon van der Stel. His Vin de
of the Dutch East India Company outpost,
floor as clay does not absorb the water.”
Constance soon acquired a good reputation,
originally called Wittebomen because of the
but it was Hendrik Cloete, who bought the
abundance of silverleaf trees.
homestead in 1778, who really made the
In 1806 a section of this land bordering on
The Groot Constantia Estate, founded in 1685, contains the finest surviving example of Cape Dutch architecture and
Groot Constantia to the north was granted
one of South Africa’s foremost historical
fied wine made from a blend of mostly Muscat
to William Duckett – the British Agricultural
monuments and tourist attractions.
de Frontignan (Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains),
adviser. In 1813 this land was bought by
name of Constantia famous, with an unforti-
12
original home for wine) wines that, while
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Commander Simon van der Stel of the
Insight: Wine Cellars
Dutch East India Company arrived at the Cape supply station in 1679. Estranged from his wife he arrived in the company of his children and sister-in-law, Cornelia Six. Back in the Netherlands van der Stel had gained a solid background in viticulture at his vineyards in Muiderberg. There he learnt the art of wine and brandy making which he was soon to implement in the Cape. Van der Stel received title to 891 morgen (about 763 hectares) on 13th July 1685. The land stretched southwards to the neighbouring free burgher farms of Steenberg and Zwaanswyk and to the north it reached as far as the wooded area named The Hell. Van der Stel named his farm Constantia. It is thought that he named it after Van Goens’ daughter in recognition of his help and support in obtaining the farmland. Another theory is that the farm was named after the ship Constantia which, with the Alphen, was anchored in Table Bay. The original manor house appears to have been designed in a late Dutch Renaissance style. The traveller Francois Valentijn (16661727) described it as a double-storey dwelling with two or three steps leading to a front room or voorhuis, the floor of which was paved with white marble and red stone. There was a big pentagon in the shape of the Castle of Good Hope tiled into the centre of the floor. On both sides of the voorhuis were grand rooms, also with white marble floors. Agricultural activities on Constantia
Steenberg Vineyards polished concrete entrance
“Their wine tasting facility is very big and floored with the original clay bricks all round – for the same reason that clay does not absorb water. The whole winery has a very rustic look!” Groot Constantia Winery wine tasting area, using clay brick tiles F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
13
Insight: Wine Cellars
included viticulture, and Constantia wine
admirals, captains and other dignitaries cov-
became renowned in Europe. In 1709 there
eted the Constantia label and treated their
operational farm and one of South Africa’s
were 70 000 vines on the farm and Van der
special guests to it.
most visited tourist attractions, where a wide
Joanna says: “Groot Constantia is a fully
The heritage of Groot Constantia would be
range of quality estate wines are created and
name Constantia is irrevocably linked to the
incomplete without regarding its setting. As
sold seven days a week. Various other attrac-
most famous wines made in South Africa.
important as the product of the vine is, so
tions, including restaurants and museums,
the beauty and significance of the priceless
make a visit an unforgettable experience.
Stel produced 5 630 litres of wine. Thus, the
Constantia wine was coveted across the globe. Limited volumes were made and it was
Manor House and the buildings grouped
so expensive that it was exclusively bought
around it are unequalled examples of Cape
scenery is spectacular, the winery kept spot-
and consumed by the aristocracy of the
Dutch architecture both in majesty and sim-
less and the staff well dressed and very
world. Members of the British Royal House,
plicity. The collection of artefacts, including
friendly. My experience here was extremely
Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis Philippe of France,
furniture and art, reflects the rich cultural tra-
harmonious. The view was filled with beauti-
Frederick II (The Great) of Prussia, governors,
dition of the Cape.
ful shrub bushes of grapes – acres long. The
“I was taken on a tour whilst visiting. The
sun was setting as I left and this provided the most magnificent and picturesque panorama overlooking the vineyards. “Their wine tasting facility is very big and floored with the original clay bricks all round – for the same reason that clay does not absorb water. The whole winery has a very rustic look!” Constantia Uitsig, known until 1940 as Constantia View, was the home of the Lategan family for five generations, which had ancestors who arrived in this country in 1735. Constantia Uitsig had been a portion of Simon van der Stel’s original grant of Groot Constantia. In 1894 Willem Lategan married Antoinette Bredell of Schoemanshoek, and with her inheritance he built the present homestead of Constantia Uitsig. In 1988 the farm was purchased by David and Marlene McCay. Together they have
High Constantia Winery Fermentation room, using clay brick tiles
restored the farm to its former glory, and Constantia Uitsig now boasts award-winning wines, three world-renowned restaurants, a private cricket oval, a spa and a 16-room luxury hotel. In 2006 fifty percent of the wine estate was bought by a consortium. Just 20 minutes from the heart of the city, Constantia Uitsig is truly Cape Town’s own Vineyard. The breathtaking rural beauty of a valley, where vineyard rows stretch up the mountainside, is unique in today’s overcrowded world. Joanna says, “This beautiful winery has three award-winning restaurants on the estate. They are La Colombe, Constantia Uitsig and River Café. Here I also got to
. . . wonderful wine tasting room with original wooden flooring planks . . . Uitsig Constantia original solid wood planks
14
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
taste the best dry red wine ever (Constantia Uitsig 2003). “They have a wonderful wine tasting room with original wooden flooring planks where you can enjoy the fruitful tastes of all their produced wine. Here the entrance is floored with concrete tiles.”
Insight: Wine Cellars
Steenberg Vineyards holds the distinction of being the oldest farm in the picturesque Constantia Valley, which is generally considered to be South Africa’s premier winegrowing region. With its cool, sea-facing slopes and majestic granite ridges, this vineyard has developed a worldwide reputation for producing excellent Cape wines. The land was originally granted to a widow, Catharina Ras, in 1682 and wines were first produced on the farm in 1695. The farm was first known as Swaaneweide – the feeding place of swans; it was only later renamed Steenberg, in honour of the imposing mountain which towers over it. Steenberg is the southernmost wine farm in the Constantia Valley, where it benefits greatly from the cooling influence of nearby False Bay. Since 1990 there is 60ha under vine, of which 48ha has grown to bear fruit. Steenberg boasts a state-of-the-art modern winery.
“. . . original clay bricks were laid for their (lesser) water absorption characteristics.”
The cultivars on the farm at the moment are: Cabernet Sauvignon; Pinot Noir; Nebbiolo;
Groot Constantia Winery Fermentation towers using clay brick tiles
Merlot; Shiraz; Sauvignon Blanc; Semillon. Their most renowned wines, Sauvignon Blanc Reserve and Catharina’s – a red Bordeaux blend named after the founder of Steenberg – have won many awards under the expertise of winemaker John Loubser, and the cellar has the capacity to produce around 70 000 cases. A major feature of the cellar is the vinotheque, where bottled wines are kept under ideal conditions until ready to be enjoyed. The luxurious Steenberg Hotel is situated on the farm, with restaurants, spas and a golf course. Joanna says, “This is another most beautiful vineyard. They also have a top-class restaurant called Bistro sixteen82 (named after the year they were established) and they have placed a polished concrete floor throughout the Bistro as well as the wine tasting area. “Catharina’s Restaurant which overlooks the great views of False Bay also plays a big role in the Steenberg winery as many locals and foreign visitors dine in this 90-seater restaurant. Once again, in the winery itself the original clay bricks were laid for their (lesser) water absorption characteristics.”
Steenberg Vineyards wine holding with clay brick tiles
Professional
0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
15
Insight
INVESTMENT
Carpets of distinction
A carpet is an accessory for a home or business, and is generally considered a rare purchase. Following the acquisition of a new car or property, buying a carpet can be one of the most expensive purchases a home or business owner will make and, although flooring options on the market are numerous and span broad price brackets, it is crucial that consumers consider their purchase as an investment, chosen for practicality, style and value reasons.
Nouwens Carpets is known for its premium quality and style offerings to suit the needs of both domestic and commercial environments . . . Nouwens Contracta Spec
16
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Insight
will last for years. Whatever space is being carpeted, the best advice that Nouwens can give is that consumers should spend as much as they can afford, because the value of investing in a quality carpet is that it will last a lifetime.
Moving forward From time to time, established brands need to re-look themselves and test their modernity and relevance to current consumers. Nouwens Carpets found itself at a point in its lifecycle where it needed to do just that, and received valuable feedback both from the trade and long-term customers alike. The focus was to revitalise – not re-invent – the brand, and also maintain what had made it appealing in the past, while adapting to changes in society and the competitive landscape. Working with brand agency GRID, Nouwens strategically formulated where it wanted to be and what it wants to represent as it moves into its 50th anniversary year and beyond. The Nouwens Carpets brand is renowned for its craftsmanship, quality and heritage – valuable brand attributes that it didn’t want to lose when revisiting its corporate identity. Likewise, its reputation for delivering a premium product needed to remain intact, with the significance of wool playing a pivotal role in perceptions both currently and moving forward.
Nouwens Madison Square
A
In order to be truly effective, Nouwens
s an industry that is continually on
wearing, spill-blocking and odour-elimina-
the move due to changing trends,
ting, and retains its good looks and perfor-
the carpet market is one that is unlikely to
mance characteristics for longer.
disappoint – given that the consumers’ pur-
On the professional front, the Nouwens
chase will add style and modernity to their
Contracta Spec is a perfect option for deco-
interior space.
rators or designers. The secret of its success
It is therefore important for consumers to
lies in the original wrap-spun and nylon
understand the advantages of making an
base, which makes the carpet both afforda-
informed decision when purchasing a carpet.
ble and unbelievably hardwearing – which
And who better to provide guidance than
means the Contracta is long-lasting, even
one of the specialist players in the industry –
under high traffic. This, together with its
Nouwens Carpets.
stylish plush appearance, has made it an all-
Nouwens understands the dilemmas involved when choosing a carpet so, before
round favourite. For domestic and premium commercial
making a rushed decision based only on
areas, Madison Square is an excellent choice
price, the advantages of investing in a car-
due to its value and style. In its current
pet must be considered. Nouwens Carpets
‘multi-roll’ mode, Nouwens has tailored
is known for its premium quality and style
Madison Square with pure new wool to
offerings to suit the needs of both domestic
meet the aesthetic needs of our times and
and commercial environments, because a
demonstrate a return to nature. The greatest
Nouwens carpet is comparatively harder-
pleasure, however, is that the carpet’s look
recognised that the entire brand-building exercise had to be a fully integrated one, and include a refreshing and modernising of Nouwens Carpets’ overall corporate identity, a reinforcement of the brand tag-line, and a fresh marketing thrust to act as a launch pad to take the ‘new look’ Nouwens to market. As a result, the company has developed a stylish, personalised luxury brand architecture that it is now proud to introduce. While this is a first sample, Nouwens looks forward to unveiling ever more of itself, building on its strong brand heritage as it moves through the rest of 2011 and into 2012. Nouwens Platinum Partners & Nouwens Appointed Dealers: A complete and updated list of Nouwens Platinum Partners and Nouwens Appointed Dealers appears by region at www.nouwens.co.za. For more information: 011 796 5180 / 031 502 5730 / 021 447 2856 / 058 622 1101 / enquiries@nouwens.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
17
Products & Ser vices
CHANGE
Into the future
Van Dyck Carpets is South Africa’s longest established carpet brand,
T
hrough continual product innovation, new product launches, recolouring
of popular existing ranges and the signing of partnerships with international and local flooring partners, Van Dyck
established in 1948, and the company and its products are associated
will remain at the forefront of flooring
with and renowned for superior style, quality and performance.
in relation to the recent announcements
technology in South Africa – particularly made by the company. “It’s time for a change at Van Dyck Carpets and we have embarked on a new branding strategy, which incorporates a fresh look to our logo and corporate vision that encompasses the fast-changing pace of our external environment,” says Dr Mehran Zarrebini, CEO of Van Dyck.
The Brand “The aspiration and reach of this branding strategy is necessarily broad, as it touches on a wide range of activities that occurs within our organisation. You will notice that ‘carpets’ has been dropped from the branding of the company due to the diversified nature of products that we now manufacture at Van Dyck,” he says. “We are no longer simply a carpet manufacturer. We are an organisation that manufactures a wide variety of products that serves various market segments both nationally and internationally in the textile flooring industry. We are an organisation of international reach.”
New logo “Our new logo represents a new strategic direction for Van Dyck. The new logo colour depicts our responsibility towards the environment. It is our goal to ensure that environmental concerns shape every aspect of our strategy and action,” Zarrebini continues. “We should not be satisfied with waiting for regulatory mandates to take effect. It is our intention to be at the forefront of environmental responsibility and ensure that we leave a legacy of a clean and sustainable environment to our future generations.” “Moreover, we have refreshed the font type, removed the diamond and the new logo will become a prominent feature of our branding. The whole look and feel of the logo gives a younger and more modern impression that reflects the energetic yet experienced attitude towards our
Vertigo
18
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
customers.”
Products & Ser vices
TigerTurf versatility
Corporate Vision “Our corporate vision encompasses a compelling story about the future, which all of us should enthusiastically embrace. There are two very distinct and important parts to our new vision. Firstly, it includes an emphasis on ethics. As an ethical business, we must act as responsible citizens of the communities in which we operate. Secondly, we stand behind the weight of our new corporate logo that, as a growing organisation, we must not ignore the need for a sustainable society and minimise our impact on the environment,” he says. “It is our aim to be a world-class manufacturer of soft floorcoverings as defined by the customers we serve – an organisation that has in its DNA honesty, integrity and hard work, and is committed to enhancing society’s ability to build a sustainable future through environmental and socially responsible practises.” “In summary, the key to our success is dependent on the energy, goodwill and outward-looking attitude of all of our employees. With this in mind, Van Dyck is positioned to deliver its aspiration of being the first choice for soft flooring in South Africa and beyond,” he concludes. For more information: 031 913 3800 /
Fibre extrusion & this is part of the R80 Mio capital expenditure programme.
0800227738 or www.vandyckcarpets.com.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
19
Products & Ser vices
ADHESIVES
Getting sticky
With more than 50 years’ experience in the local and international flooring industry, Denver Coleman, Chairman of Polyflor SA, answers questions posed by installers, architects and readers on their flooring challenges.* The question in this issue deals with adhesive applications.
“W
hat are the most common mistakes made during adhesive applications?” Godfrey Nkosi, Pietermaritzburg
There are some basic rules to follow for
Before applying any adhesive always
the successful application of adhesives:
adhere to the following guidelines:
A pressure-sensitive adhesive,
1. Always follow the instructions of the
Test the subfloor for moisture, as
approved by the flooring manufactur-
specific manufacturer of both the
too high a moisture content will
er and recommended by the adhesive
flooring and the adhesive you are
result in a poor bond of the sheet
company, can be used.
using – don’t assume that they will
flooring/tiles to the screed (typi-
The adhesive manufacturer will rec-
remain the same for all products you
cally this should be less than 75%
ommend the correct fine notch trowel
use regularly, as there are constant
RH or less than 3,5% moisture
to ensure the correct amount of adhe-
changes and improvements being
content).
sive is applied to the floor screed.
made by manufacturers.
Ensure that the screed surface has
After that, a short hair or mohair paint
been well swept, or preferably
roller ‘wetted’ in the adhesive and
vacuumed, to remove all dust as
rolled out can be used to effectively
Control floorcoverings and for earth-
this will result in a poor bond.
flatten the trowel marks and allow the
ing strips. If alternative adhesives are
Ensure that the screed surface is
adhesive to rid itself of all moisture
used, they must be recommended
sufficiently smooth, as any imper-
before applying the floor material.
by the adhesive manufacturer as fit
fections will mirror through the
If this is not correctly done, moisture
for purpose and approved by the
floor sheet especially when the
will be trapped beneath the flooring
flooring supplier.
floor is cleaned/sealed/buffed – at
material, causing bubbles.
which time it will be too late to
This method is a successful way of
rectify.
eliminating trowel ridges that show
mended trowel blades with the spec-
Adhesives should not be used if
through the floor.
ified notches as this will firstly apply
the ambient or screed tempera-
In certain situations a light coat of
the correct amount of adhesive and
ture is below 8-10ºC (or otherwise
adhesive applied to the underneath of
secondly limit the profiling through
as per manufacturer’s instruc-
the floor sheeting and allowed to dry
of trowel marks.
tions), and adhesive should not be
thoroughly (using pressure-sensitive
stored at such low temperatures,
adhesive only) will act as a contact
2. Use conductive adhesive for all Static
3. Always use the correct and recom-
4. Do not use re-notched trowel blades,
otherwise under any of these con-
system and create a more secure
unless they have been professionally
ditions they will perform poorly.
bond. Do not try this with a standard
re-notched by the manufacturer, and
Adhesives should generally be
wet-set acrylic!!
very definitely do not use any trowel
just touch-dry when applying the
Always read and follow all manufactur-
blades that have been notched with a
flooring material – if too dry the
ers’ instructions!!
hacksaw or anything similar.
bond will be poor or, if flooring is
If you have any flooring questions relating to design, installation, problems or commentary you wish to share with Denver, please e-mail him at info@polyflor.co.za with ASK DENVER in the subject line or phone Blythe at Polyflor on 011 609 3500. *The views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views or opinions of FLOORS in Africa and may not be applicable to all resilient floorcoverings. This article has not been solicited or sponsored by FLOORS in Africa.
applied too soon, either water or
5. Make sure that after applying the
22
To avoid trowel marks:
solvent will be trapped below the
floor sheeting the floor is rolled
flooring. Either will cause bubbles
with a 68 kg roller as soon as pos-
later on (depending on the type of
sible to effect transfer of adhesive to
adhesive used) which are difficult
the floor sheeting which will give a
to fix.
strong bond, and also eliminate the
The 68 kg roller should be clean
trowel marks showing through the
and smooth to prevent scuff/dam-
sheeting.
age to the flooring product.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Products & Ser vices
SEBO HARD FLOOR MAINTENANCE
Reliability as standard Built by professionals for professionals Proffessional results , effortlessly It has never been easier to make hard floors shine Perfect choice to maintain hard floors Easy to maintain Super gloss finish Longer Lasting Ideal for : Medical practices , hotels , shops etc. Easy , effective , efficient Hygienic Prolong life of floor
F L O O R S J u l y A u g 2 0 1 1 23
Products & Ser vices
FLOOR COLOUR
Choose wisely Quartz Carpet has increased its colour range to 40 standard colours, but excitingly, the stone can now also be tinted to any Pantone colour with recent developments in the company’s makeover.
W
hen choosing room colours it is advis-
able to start on the floor and work your way up. The floor area comprises a sixth of the total space in a room, just like your ceiling. This amount of space is bound to have a large impression on the overall room colour scheme. Whenever specifiers think of colours for their projects they often think of the walls or the main furniture pieces and accessories. However, the flooring in a room is one of the single biggest elements of a project’s interior décor, playing a pivotal role in setting the mood and ambience of a room. A bit of effort spent on flooring colour can pay huge dividends in the overall success of an interior decorating scheme for your project. A neutral colour scheme can have advantages, making it easier for you to redecorate or change the look of your
. . . flooring in a room is one of the single biggest elements of a project’s interior décor . . . 24
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
space, simply by highlighting different furnishings and accessories. A neutral background of white, beige or cream can easily look very different if
Products & Ser vices
accented with different colours and textures such as warm berry tones in velvet versus black and grey shades in cool linen; or earthy browns versus formal elegance in dark shades. The functional aspect should always be the first consideration and this can in fact help to narrow your choices. For example, flooring for an area of high traffic may not benefit from being too pale in colour, as this would show up stains and dirt easily. Similarly, dark shades tend to make small rooms smaller so this needs to be accented in too. Fortunately, Quartz Carpet has created colours throughout the entire colour spectrum from neutral whites to blacks incorporating the greens, blues, reds, greys and earthy browns. If you don’t find a colour here, just choose any Pantone colour or Plascon, Marmoran and Dulux colour and it will be made up. Finally, consider the entire project when choosing flooring colours in different spaces and remember that a good dÊcor flows seamlessly from room to room or from office to office. For more information: 086 178 2789 / www.quartzcarpet.co.za
F L O O R S J u l y A u g 2 0 1 1 25
Products & Ser vices
FINAL SOLUTIONS Stainless Steel Profiles Stainless steel is a very hardy and versatile material and its anti-corrosive properties make it a very popular material to specify amongst the professionals. Bespoke items in stainless steel are often sent to the Kirk team with our only limitation being a maximum length of 4m and a maximum
FLOOR AND WALL FINAL SOLUTIONS
available through Kirk Marketing
thickness of 3mm.
“The Matrix” Architects entrance stairs in PE.
P
Stainless steel tile-in skirting
Stainless steel tile listello
Stainless steel tile-in corner protector
rofiles can be made in all available grades of stainless steel and Kirk can help in the selection of the correct grade of stain-
less steel, if all the relevant information is supplied. In special cases Kirk can produce samples for approval before commencing. Lead times apply to these products and the cost of the profile can vary – depending on the amount ordered per profile. The price can be prohibitive if small quantities of specialised items are manufactured, however this can be discussed at the design phase.
KIRK
Brass movement joint
Stainless Steel movement joint
The beauty of working with stainless steel is that it is possible to achieve a variety of profile shapes such as top hats, angles, U-channels, lip channels, architraves and bespoke items – all to the architect or designer’s specifications, with each profile having its unique dimensions. Off-the-shelf items such as different height straight edges, square edges, round edges, corner protectors, listellos, internal skirtings,
M Trim is a brand of PVC, brass, aluminium, stainless steel and anodised profiles used for tiles, carpets, vinyl and laminate floors.
formable straight edges, and more, are readily available as stock items from the Kirk warehouses. The different finishes of stainless steel include polished, brushed
Quality Profiles for wood and laminate floors.
Quality Tile Cleaners,Strippers and Sealants.
and satin, giving the specifier more opportunities to meet the aesthetics required. Stainless steel profiles are often used on tiled floors and walls, with columns, stair edges, dividers, listellos, tile edges, and in public bathrooms, shopping centres, airports and other high-wear areas. They can also be used internally and externally, but it is best to get advice from your Kirk salesperson so that the correct grade is selected. Please contact your nearest Kirk branch for advice and help in your design of any stainless steel profiles you might require. For further information: 011 444 1441 / sales@kirk.co.za / www.kirk.co.za.
Structural movement and expansion joints for floors, walls, columns, ceilings, roofs, car garages, bridges. Fire Barriers also available.
GAUTENG Tel: +27 11 444 1441 Fax: +27 11 444 1165 CAPE TOWN Tel: +27 21 949 2226 Fax: +27 21 949 4531
PVC curvable profiles for multishaped flooring. Commercial and domestic applications.
KWAZULU NATAL Tel: +27 31 564 1175 Fax: +27 31 564 1143 PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 0860 547573 Fax: 086 688 4980
E-mail: sales@kirk.co.za Website: www.kirk.co.za F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
27
Products & Ser vices
MILESTONE
Turning thirty!
On the 1 October 2011, Safic (Pty) Ltd, a sister st
NEW
Upright vacuum cleaners
Sebo, a German company with a 25-year history
company of FloorworX turns 30. This marks an
in manufacturing high-quality vacuum clean-
important milestone in the history of this company.
ers, claims to be the global leader in commercial
T
he total solution package offered by Safic includes both chemicals and equipment, and caters for most key market segments, includ-
upright vacuum cleaners having sold over three million since its inception.
ing food and beverage; industrial and commercial; healthcare as well as specialised industries such as aviation and heavy moving vehicles. As a listed company, and given Safic’s impressive track record on triple bottom line principles, their business approach is driven by key fundamentals, such as their ISO systems, as well as their responsible care commitments. Safic was the first ever chemical company in South Africa to be awarded all three ISO certifications namely ISO 9000, 14000 and OHSAS 18001. The company has recently launched its 100ml sachet range. This maintenance range is set to serve facility management, retail and healthcare sectors. This flexible product offering ensures clients exceptional product quality while at the same time addressing many of their key buying concerns – ease of use; application, as well as triple bottom line principles including health, safety and environmental responsibility. For further information: 0860 4 72342 or sales@safic.co.za or www.safic.co.za.
A
Features of the Dart 1 & 2 – for the technically minded SEBO DART 1 - 31cm cleaning head - ‘Flex-neck’ - 1300W Suction motor - 175W Brush motor - Hospital-grade filtration - On-board hose - Crevice nozzle and clamp - 4-level height adjustment SEBO DART 2 - 37cm cleaning head - 200W Brush motor - Other features as per DART 1
imed at providing a user-friendly operation, the advanced design of Sebo vacuum cleaners ensures quality construction,
superb cleaning performance, easy maintenance and high filtration as standard. The new Dart range of vacuum cleaners has been developed to provide even better performance, and with a powerful suction and brush action they can lift carpet pile and remove deeply embedded dirt and grit. The Dart 1 and Dart 2 models in this range offer professional per-
formance in a lightweight, versatile and easy-to-manoeuvre machine, designed to be agile, user-friendly and to achieve superb cleaning results quickly, easily and economically. With two brush widths (Dart 1 = 31cm; Dart 2 = 37cm) these models are ideal for small and medium-sized areas, and their ‘flat out’ performance means that they have the ability to reach and clean under furniture and right up to skirting boards with their low-profile ‘L’-shaped cleaning heads. The ‘Flex-neck’ of the Dart gives 90º vertical and 180º horizontal movement, providing superb manoeuvrability for fast cleaning around obstacles. Also, when detached from the power head, the Dart is transformed into a lightweight, powerful suction machine which can be carried around with its comfortable carrying handle. All fitted with a 9,5m cable which allows an extensive cleaning range, these models have an easy and hygienic bag change operation. The bag drops easily into position and is firmly fixed in place when the cover is closed. The sealing cap ensures that all dirt and dust is safely secured when handling the bag. A wide range of optional accessories is available from Sebo, and for the technically minded the technical details of these two models appear in the box given with this article. For further information: 086 111 4250 / sebo@internext.co.za / www.sebo.co.za
28
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Wood, Laminates & Bamboo There is an old business maxim that says the only
wood – long the favourite of the affluent, upmar-
thing constant is change, and this could not be
ket home or prestigious building – found itself
more applicable to wood, laminates and bamboo
under pressure from the environmentalists looking
floors than today. They look alike, they feel the
to preserve the rain forests, and from the advent of
same, they have many similar attributes, and they
laminate flooring which offered a faux wood floor
are all under pressure in different ways, often rely-
at considerably less expense.
ing on innovative technology, to save the day. Solid
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
29
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
SHUTTERSTOCK
WOOD, LAMINATES & They might BAMBOO seem similar, but…
30
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
There is an old business maxim that says the only thing constant is change, and this could not be more applicable to wood, laminates and bamboo floors than today.
T
– keeping the floor in a pristine and perfectly hygienic condition. Laminates are also stainand fade-resistant. Most brands use a click fixing system which makes installation – together with any
hey look alike, they feel the same, they
ings a run for their money.
replacement requirement at a later stage –
Because laminate surface finishes replicate
easy. With the quality surfaces and textures
are all under pressure in different ways,
the look of all the popular hardwoods with a
of laminate floors these days they are often
often relying on innovative technology, to
high degree of proficiency, it was the natural
mistaken for wood, even by experts.
save the day.
wood sector that bore the brunt of the initial
have many similar attributes, and they
Solid wood – long the favourite of the affluent, upmarket home or prestigious build-
campaigns. Realising that one of the main selling points
Most laminate floors sold in this country are imported from reputable manufacturers in Europe where there are stringent technical
ing – found itself under pressure from the
for laminates was that the consumer could
requirements imposed by the EPLF (European
environmentalists looking to preserve the
get a floor that could look like any wood in
Producers of Laminate Floorcoverings) to
rain forests, and from the advent of laminate
a whole range of different exotic hardwoods
ensure that the consumer or specifier can rely
flooring which offered a faux wood floor at
at a much lower cost than the real thing, and
on the quality.
considerably less expense.
with no need for waxing, sanding, oiling or
In the same vein, SAWLFA (The Southern
any other treatments in order to keep it clean
African Wood & Laminate Flooring
development of engineered wood flooring,
and looking good, laminates began to take
Association) has been established locally and
which fits neatly between the two extremes.
considerable market share in these areas.
training instigated to ensure their members
The answer has been provided by the
Laminates, strongly marketed as wooden
Capitalising on their success, the laminate
provide the very highest standards of work-
flooring – which it is not – gained market
manufacturers soon developed other inno-
manship.
share with its ease of installation, unim-
vations with a wide variety of natural stone
Bamboo is great
peachable surface finishes, low maintenance
lookalikes and even, tiles that replicated
Bamboo is potentially a superbly green floor-
and equally low cost, but is finding increas-
ceramic tiles – but this latter development
ing material. How the bamboo is managed,
ing competition from alternative floorcover-
does not seem to have met with much suc-
harvested, and ultimately made into flooring
ing materials such as vinyl which now com-
cess locally.
can impact its greenness to a degree.
pete on aesthetic appeal in replicating the look of a solid wood floor. And then – to compete with them all – along comes bamboo, a grass that provides a wood-look floor, a long service life, and its credentials held high in the esteem of the environmentalists. But is bamboo as green as
However, the nett result was that, although
. . . laminate surface finishes replicate the look of all the popular hardwoods with a high degree of proficiency.
Widely regarded as one of the planet’s fastest growing plants – some species can grow up to a metre in a day – a bamboo plant reaches full maturity within five years as opposed to 40-50 years for many species of hardwood trees. If harvested correctly so that a viable portion of the stalk and roots remains, the bam-
we think it is? there was no general agreement or collusion
boo needn’t be replanted; it can simply regen-
options, beginning with laminates which
between the various companies, most other
erate, and an acre of bamboo can provide far
started all the rumpus in this sector before
flooring manufacturers seemed to decide to
more flooring than an acre of trees.
the green lobby got going.
‘fight laminates with fire’, which has led to the
Why laminates?
development of engineered wood flooring,
carbon sequestration, since fast-growing trees
The introduction of laminate floorcoverings
large-format ceramic and porcelain tiles in
absorb carbon quicker than others such as
to South Africa just a few years ago – backed
wood and stone looks, and luxury vinyl tiles
oak or pine trees. Although it’s technically a
by considerable promotional campaigns
in similar patterning – all aimed at obtain-
grass, bamboo is classified as a timber within
– caused quite a stir in the local market,
ing or regaining a share of the market from
the construction industry for its characteristics
particularly as it was readily accepted by the
laminates, and all laying claim to be doing
and appearance.
residential sector and was seen to be mak-
just that!
Let’s take a serious look at the three ‘wood’
ing inroads into areas traditionally served by
So, it could be said that the boot is now on
This rapid cycle translates into increased
The World Wildlife Fund estimates that an acre of bamboo can store 6,88 metric tonnes
the other foot but, in general, laminates are
of carbon per year, about 70% more than an
still a less expensive, easier to install answer
acre of hardwoods. Once bamboo is turned
fly-by-night products and operators, plus the
for those that want the appearance of wood
into flooring or furniture that won’t rot due to
ensuing shoddy workmanship by the ‘bakkie
within a lower budget.
the treatments applied, then that carbon can
other flooring materials. Once laminates had got over the problem of
remain fixed for decades.
brigade’ and companies that disappeared
These hardwearing floorcoverings are
(with their guarantees!) once they found
very easy to keep clean. Dirt and dust can
The endangered panda does not feed on
floors failing, they set about the task of taking
be quickly and completely removed from
Pyllostachus Pubescens commonly known
market share and it wasn’t long before they
the smooth surface of laminate flooring by
as Mao or Moso bamboo – the only bamboo
were giving almost all the other floorcover-
brushing, vacuum cleaning or damp cleaning
suitable for flooring or furniture boards – and
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
31
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
highest grade of glues, as specified by reputable local importers, and thereby achieve the lowest class emission ratings. But, like any industry (just as with laminates and engineered flooring manufacturers), there are factories that manufacture bamboo flooring as cheaply as possible using the cheap alternatives to expensive glues that emit higher levels of formaldehyde, which can have serious health consequences for consumers. The answer is to insist on verification – by an authoritative and independent source – of the growing, harvesting and manufacturing methods used of any bamboo flooring, preferably by asking for the FSC certification, in the same way that the sustainability of regulated hardwood operations is verified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Nevertheless, bamboo makes a superb floorcovering both in looks and functionality, providing a stunning appearance for any room that will match any décor or furnishings. Apart from the natural colours that bamboo provides, the planks can be obtained with stained or dyed surfaces in a myriad of colour choices and finishes. Solid bamboo floors can be refinished at least 5 times (without worrying about the thickness of the “wear layer” as with engi-
SHUTTERSTOCK
neered flooring) if ever needed, so in pracThe flooring planks are factory finished, so sanding and sealing is not required, and they can be installed over almost any type of subfloor, using either a traditional tongue-
is thereby unaffected by this industry. The
policies, largely putting paid to many of the
and-groove connection or the popular click
last point in bamboo’s favour is its robust-
bad practices. In fact, the opposite is true –
system, in the same way as engineered wood
ness.
China’s National Forest Restoration Program
– glued down, nailed or installed as a float-
has a planned afforestation of 4 million
ing floor.
The plant will grow in a variety of climates
Bamboo floors also exhibit extraordinary
and soils and can flourish unaided by chemi-
hectares annually. In 2007 the forest area in
cal fertilisers, pesticides or traditional farm-
China grew by 5,196 million hectares. During
strength, and the strand-woven varieties are
ing equipment. Bamboo producers also
2008 they planted more than 2,5 billion trees
claimed to be harder than oak, maple and
claim that the plants’ extensive root systems
covering 5,29 million hectares. In 2009 this
many of the exotic Brazilian hardwoods.
prevent soil erosion.
program has seen an additional 2,6 billion
Easy to keep clean in the same way as
There is an argument that many Asian
trees planted, covering about 5,412 million
laminate flooring, bamboo is ideal for com-
producers have been aggressive with their
hectares. As you can see they are exceeding
mercial or residential applications where
planting, often at the expense of old wood-
their target every year.
it can meet all the technical and aesthetic
lands and their attendant ecosystems. This argument is unsubstantiated for two reasons: Due to prolific growth of the extensive natural Mao bamboo forests, there has been no incentive for planting at the expense of the other timbers. In the late 1990’s (29th April 1998) the Chinese government reformed their forestry
32
tice, they can truly last lifetimes.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
There are bamboo factories that use the
. . . bamboo is ideal for commercial or residential applications where it can meet all the technical and aesthetic requirements,
requirements, enhance any décor, and last a lifetime.
Wood? Yes, but solid or engineered? The most diehard hardwood flooring specialist will admit that, even leaving aside the environmental issues, the modern engineered wood flooring has the edge, although solid wood flooring is still available
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
the core and is available in almost any hardwood species. Thus, this product has the natural characteristics of the selected wood species but it has been designed to provide greater stability, particularly where moisture or heat pose problems for solid hardwood floors. Engineered floors can be provided as tongue-and-groove board, although they are also available using the unique ‘click’ system made popular by laminate floors. Another main attribute is that although the consumer gets a floor with a natural hardwood surface, this design uses considerably less of the natural material to achieve the same effect and performance. The lifespan of engineered wood floors is what you would expect from a wood floor. Some brands of engineered flooring have a thin wear layer that can only be re-coated
. . .this design uses considerably less of the natural material to achieve the same effect and performance.
TERAGREN
and cannot be sanded and refinished as new
and in regular demand. So, let’s look briefly at solid wood, and first discuss the old argument of whether factory
oped with space-age technology, and need no waxing. Prior to the development of engineered
again once they get worn (in the same way that solid wood flooring can be renewed), but they can still provide an average lifespan of between 30-40 years depending on traffic. Other brands or styles can have a thicker 2-4mm thick wear layer that can be completely sanded and refinished 2-5 times
finishing or custom sanding and finishing on
hardwood flooring, hardwood products
if ever needed. These thicker wear layer
site is best.
could not be installed on-slab or in a base-
engineered floors can last from 40-100 years
ment without a special subfloor system.
before having to be replaced – which adds
In truth, you should feel comfortable with either choice if you are using a professional
Now it is possible to enjoy real hardwood
installer, but modern factory finishing offers
flooring in those areas, without all that fuss
many advantages, including being inspected
and expense, with the advent of engineered
than traditional solid wood flooring, but less
for defects at the mill so you receive first-
hardwood flooring – a special cross-ply
so than bamboo flooring, and purchasing
choice product every time, whereas on-site
construction that eliminates the problem of
this flooring helps to reduce exploitation of
finishing depends on the quality of the work-
expansion and contraction usually associ-
the exotic woods. For every square metre of
manship that day.
ated with solid hardwood.
16mm (3/4 inch) thick solid wood flooring
Factory-finished flooring usually installs
Engineered hardwood flooring
greatly to their appeal. So, engineered wood flooring is Green
approximately four times that area can be
quicker and without the dust and odours
The term, engineered hardwood flooring is
manufactured into engineered wood floor-
involved with on-site finishing. However,
somewhat misleading. This type of flooring is
ing, making this the best flooring (barring
even though factory-finished flooring comes
100% real wood – “engineered” only refers to
bamboo) to conserve exotic forests.
in a variety of colours, on-site finishing
the manufacturing process.
allows for closer colour matching with exist-
Engineered hardwood flooring is a multi-
Wood, laminates or bamboo? The choice is yours and, in an honest attempt to ‘draw the
layer product comprising a core of plywood
battle lines’, we hope this has relieved the
or HDF, or a less vulnerable wood to hard-
reader of some doubts or misconceptions,
are available in either high-gloss or matte.
wood, and has a top layer of hardwood
and assisted in the decision-making for your
Both types have exciting new finishes devel-
veneer that is affixed to the top surface of
next wooden floor.
ing woodwork or cabinets. Both factory finishes and on-site finishes
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
33
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
SOLID WOOD
Totally natural product
Despite the fact that so many different types of floorcovering have
and harvesting of timber from the forests is
entered the market in recent years that try to copy the aesthetic
Bedson’s company-owned forests in Uruguay
appeal, texture and performance of solid wood, no other type of flooring offers the warmth, beauty, and value, of this totally natural product.
strictly controlled to ensure sustainability. form part of a 300-year sustainable project. The planting was done in accordance with The Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) strict principles and guidelines to preserve the bio-diversity and ensure sustainability, and in effect this ensures that the planting and growth of the trees far exceeds the amount of harvesting each year. This sustainable forest management makes it possible to harvest wood without any serious impact on the environment, because trees are a renewable resource that can be replaced time and time again. Also, wood is a carbon-neutral product that produces oxygen during its growth cycle and stores carbon during its service life. The maintenance of today’s solid wood floors is easy! The new technology in stains and finishes calls for regular cleaning that takes little more than sweeping and/or vacuuming, with occasional use of a professional wood floor cleaning product. Although it may be many years before
. . . solid wood flooring is the only option available that is completely sustainable, being both renewable and recyclable.
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necessary through excessive wear, solid wood products, on average, have a thick ‘sandable surface’ (the wood that is above the tongue-and-groove level of the installed floor), and can be installed using nails. Lastly, solid wood tends to be less expensive than engineered wood, but this, as
ood flooring enhances the décor
environment. However, there is a popular
with the thickness of the sandable surface,
of any room, and provides timeless
misconception that solid wood flooring is
depends on the quality of the engineered
not eco-friendly.
wood (most inexpensive engineered wood
beauty that will increase in value throughout the years – in fact, it is regularly stated by
This is totally untrue and, fortunately, the
products are ‘veneer’ wood floors, and not ‘engineered’).
estate agents that houses with wood floor-
facts are clear: solid wood flooring is the only
ing sell faster and for higher prices than
option available that is completely sustain-
houses without.
able, being both renewable and recyclable.
of 200 000 m² including 40 exotic and
Also, because wood does not collect dust
hardwood species. With its headquarters in
affordable, because when other flooring
and other allergens, many leading health
Pretoria, the company has regional offices
options are looking tired and worn out,
associations agree that wood floors are the
and warehousing in Cape Town and Durban,
solid wood floors will still look beautiful
perfect choice for a healthy home.
and recently opened an exquisite new show-
This also makes today’s wood floors
without any loss of performance. Some
In addition, solid wood flooring has the
Bedson Timbers holds a stock in excess
room in Silverton, Pretoria. But Bedson’s mar-
solid wood floors have been known to last
smallest impact on our environment. It is
keting is not restricted to this country as it
for hundreds of years.
carbon-neutral, uses fewer fossil fuels and
provides a considerable service throughout
less water consumption in its production,
Africa and the Indian Ocean islands.
Public awareness about environmental issues is at an all-time high and, increasingly,
and has one of the longest service lives of all
consumers are doing their part by choosing
flooring options.
products that have a minimal impact on the
34
sanding of the solid wood floor becomes
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
However, it is essential that the management
For more information: Head Office, 012 803 4376 / KZN 031 736 1022 / www.bedsonflooring.co.za
www.bedsonflooring.co.za great flooring guide|2011 0861 BEDSON
COMMERCIAL SPECIFYING
The only South African manufacturer of solid hardwood flooring and decking. A seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
Head Office: Pretoria, Gauteng c/o Axle & Battery St, Willows Business Park, Silverton Ext. 52 T 012 803 4376 E sales@bedson.co.za Branch: Hammarsdale, Kwa Zulu Natal Unit 2 - Complex 4, 121 Main g r e Rd, a t fHammarsdale looring guide|2011 T 031 736 1022 E david.gearing@bedson.co.za
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
LAMINATES
Why indeed!
Since laminates were introduced to South Africa , they have made considerable impact on the hardwood markets, but have also made inroads into other sectors that were traditionally the domain of vinyl, ceramics, and others.
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PRODUCT FOCUS Exciting new ranges Traviata Flooring Systems, established distributors of laminate flooring, has recently partnered with two global manufacturers to bring exciting new ranges to South Africa.
he advent of engineered wood is claiming back some of the mar-
ket share lost by hardwood – and vinyl, ceramic, and other materi-
als have started jumping on the bandwagon by developing wood and stone look-alikes to compete with laminates. To get an authoritative view on the current state of the market from a laminate viewpoint, FLOORS in Africa posed five pertinent questions to the Southern African Wood & Laminate Flooring Association (SAWLFA), and the response is shown here. What is the effect on laminates with ‘new’ materials entering the market? Laminate as a floorcovering has nowhere near reached its full potential and the use of laminate will continue to increase in the long term. New products such as floating vinyl flooring will become more popular but will still only take a small part of the total laminate, wood and engineered wood flooring market. Where it is felt that laminates do a better job, and why? As long as the correct laminate is used in an installation it can be the first-choice product for almost every application; laminate is easier to repair than a ceramic tile, looks more natural than carpet, and is a healthy choice for people with allergies. The quality of the installation and the underlay also determines how well a laminate will last. What are the latest developments in laminate flooring? Laminate has come a long way since the first product was introduced to South Africa. The latest developments include better locking systems which are easier to install and speed up the application process. The décors on laminate are improving all the time, and with the introduction of realistic surfaces that are hard to tell from real wood, laminate is set to become the leader in flooring solutions for the DIY person looking to complete a weekend project. How do you see the future for laminates, both technically and from a sales/market share viewpoint? The future for laminate flooring in South Africa is looking good, and with the introduction of better quality laminate and the improved
raviloc, a luxury vinyl wood-plank, is the cutting edge of solid vinyl technology. Using a patented click-all-round system it
forms a truly floating resilient floor that has great aesthetics, is very hygienic and easy to clean and maintain. These attributes together with its Ceramic Bead wear layer have
seen Traviloc find easy acceptance in the hospitality and leisure markets. Ideal for hotels, restaurants, spas and other commercial applications, Traviloc has to date been so successful that new patterns and finishes are already being planned for mid-year. Also in the Traviata sales programme is a range of genuine wood
click-and-lock joint systems, laminate flooring is easy to install and will
veneer flooring under the brand name of Par-Ky, which gives the
change the look of a room in a matter of hours. Installing ceramic tiles
look and feel of real wood without the price or cost to nature of
or fitting carpet is difficult and thus not an option unless you have the
solid wood.
correct tools and experience.
Ideal for upmarket applications such as hotel bedrooms, lounge
Laminate flooring is the obvious answer for the DIY market; with lim-
areas and superior residences, the Dia-Pro finish means you never
ited skill and a few tools normally found in most homes even the most
have to re-sand or refinish Par-Ky. New veneer processing technol-
inexperienced DIY-er can achieve a good-looking floor.
ogy and the use of a high-density fibre (HDF) core makes exotic spe-
Any general observations? Ensure you buy your laminate from a reputable company and do not
cies achievable, affordable and hardwearing. To support these new products, Traviata has recently formed a
try to save money by using inferior products, installers or underlay –
commercial division which will focus on specified commercial proj-
and always use felt pads on the bottom of furniture.
ects and carries the technical backing as well as the commitment to
Editor’s note: The views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views or opinions of FLOORS in Africa.
36
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F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
social and environmental responsibility of the manufacturers. For more information: 082 595 2061 or www.traviata.co.za
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
SKIRTINGS
In real wood!
For over 21 years Suntups has always dealt in real wood flooring and has not moved to synthetics after three generations in the wood industry. To keep with the real wood trend Suntups has now
T
hese are all available in a range of different species, marketed under
the brand name of Suntups, to complement the existing range of Suntups Wooden Flooring. Besides wood species Suntups also has a full range of these profiles in bamboo. All skirting is engineered by veneering
launched a full range of real wood skirtings and quadrants as well as
a real wood veneer onto stable finger-
T-strips, end-caps and stair nosings.
and end-caps are veneered onto Beech or
jointed European Pine and the T-strips Oak for harder wearing. The stair nosings are all solid. Suntups believes if one is putting in a real wooden floor then one needs real wood as profiles. The Suntups skirting is installed on a clip so that it can take an electric cord of 7mm concealed in the clip behind the skirting. This has a unique Press & Push system which makes it suitable for new building or renovation work, and it is even possible to lay cabling after the initial installation, with no unsightly gaps and optimum adaptation to uneven walls. For further information on these unique accessories, call Suntups on 0861 833 338.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
37
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
LAUNCH
Artistic collection
FloorworX is launching the K채hrs Artisan Collection, the ultimate artistic wood floors. The dramatic surface treatments of these floors, ranging from pale to dark, will add a bold and powerful statement to any interior design.
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he K채hrs Artisan Collection is characterised by the creativity and
high attention to detail put in by highly skilled craftsmen. The Collection has been especially developed with the design-conscious consumer in mind. The Artisan floors have a contemporary look, combined with old-fashioned charm. The Collection includes ten one-strip floors which are based on the unique character of oak. Each floor within the Artisan Collection has its own unique style and character, spanning from palest white to almost black with a variety of different hand-made surface designs, such as distressing and handscraping. All floors have bevelled edges and are treated with nature oil. Measuring 1900 mm x 190 mm x 15 mm, these floors will add a rustic and dramatic effect to any interior design. They create an authentic aged look, while benefiting from a durable and modern construction. The Artisan floors vary a great deal from each other in character and appearance, but they all share some strong, common features. These include an eco-friendly, multi-layered construction, which uses hardwood down to the joint only, with a fast-growing timber species below. All Artisan floors are offered with a 30-year guarantee. The Artisan Collection has been launched in markets in Central Europe as well as in the UK and has received a lot
The Collection includes ten one-strip floors which are based on the unique character of oak. 40
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
of positive response from these markets. The Collection will now be introduced in South Africa. For further information and additional images: 011 406 4290 or www.floorworx.co.za.
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
BAMBOO
Truly green Ecostrong is one of South Africa’s foremost importers and distributors of top-quality bamboo flooring. The company was started in 2003 and has the longest track record of any bamEnvironmental Impact
also very stable under humid and dry condi-
Bamboo flooring is an attractive alternative
tions. As Ecostrong bamboo flooring is a solid
to hardwood floors as the product is sourced
product, floors can be sanded and resealed
solely in Bamboo making it a
from the forests of a fully sustainable, envi-
should it become necessary.
sure choice for architects, green
ronmentally friendly and rapidly growing
Ecostrong strand-woven bamboo flooring has
developers and decorators.
renewable resource. With hardwood forest
the patented Välinge click system which locks
resources under continued environmental
the boards together when horizontal. The
E
pressure, bamboo floors are a natural selec-
click system makes replacing a damaged
tion for any home.
board a lot easier.
acclaimed internationally as a truly green
it is self-regenerating, growing to maturity
recommend soundproofing; and
product. This quality flooring has 3 distinctive
and achieving optimum hardness in approxi-
does bamboo require anything special
grains in a variety of colours which makes it
mately 5.5 years. It has high carbon absorp-
in the way of trims, expansion joints, skirt-
an attractive and unique flooring material that
tion rates and releases oxygen into the atmo-
ings, etc.?
enhances the beauty, comfort and value of
sphere. There is a minimum of waste as well
There is no ideal method for installing
any home.
as minimal pollution in its harvesting and pro-
bamboo as such – it is installed much like a
duction – all parts of the bamboo plant are
traditional hardwood floor. Depending on
utilised to produce a multitude of products.
the bamboo grain chosen, it can be glued to
boo flooring company in SA. The company also specialises
costrong bamboo flooring boards are elegantly timeless and have been
A very popular and relatively new addition to our range is Solid Bamboo Panels. Panels
Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource;
What is the ideal installation method; do you
Some people have expressed concern
an elastic mat or installed as a floating floor
and natural or carbonised colouring. This can
that the natural habitat and food supply of
with a self-locking system that requires no
be used in any number of ways from cabin-
pandas will be harmed by bamboo product
adhesive.
etry, to custom joinery, panelling and floating
manufacture. The species of bamboo used for
All our floors should be installed on a 3mm
stairs to counter tops.
Ecostrong’s products (Mao or Moso bamboo)
thick solid rubber underlay which also acts
Panels are 2 440mm x 1 220mm in size and
is very different to that sought by pandas and
as a sound-dampening mechanism. In addi-
available in thicknesses from 5mm to 40mm.
has no negative impact on their environment.
tion, we have a range of trims and profiles to
Bamboo veneer will also be available shortly.
Frequently asked questions
match each of our various floor grains and
What colours are available, and can bamboo
colours.
range saw the addition of the Välinge Click
be stained?
Part of our vision is ‘to assist customers in
System. Our range of Strand Bamboo floor
Bamboo is available in two standard colours;
achieving fulfillment of their design ideas
now features the Välinge-patented fold-down
Natural and Carbonised. That said, bamboo
through a positive and dynamic team’ and we
locking system. This system allows for rapid
takes stain perfectly and can be stained to
look forward to assisting you with your next
installation of these floors with consistently
match certain hardwoods.
project.
perfect joints. The big advantage Välinge
Apart from the eco-advantages and its
has against its competition is that there is no
inherent hardness, what would you say are
need for a hammer. This product drops and
the other main advantages over hardwood
locks right into place. Other systems require a
flooring?
tapping block and hammer, which could not
Bamboo has many advantages over hard-
only damage the floor but also make it more
wood flooring. It compares favourably with
difficult to install.
traditional solid timber floors and, given that
are again available in the 3 bamboo grains
A recent enhancement of the Ecostrong
The Välinge system takes the hammer out
For further information: 011 552 8480 / info@ecostrong.co.za / www.ecostrong.co.za
it is already sanded and finished, bamboo
of the installer’s hands and helps to eliminate
flooring is capable of being quickly installed,
potential problems.
ready for use with minimal disruption. It is
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
41
RHOMS
RHOMS
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
TRIMS
Perfect finishes
One of the aspects worth serious consideration when installing a wood, laminate or bamboo floorcovering is that in most cases they will require special profiles which are required to ensure an aesthetically pleasing finish and also to complete the installation in a safe manner.
Falcon Tiling Products specialise in a wide variety of products focusing mainly on the Tiling and Flooring sector of the market. We supply top quality products to the DIY and Professional market, and we have a full range of Tiling Tools, Tiling Profiles and Mosaic Tiles.
Aluminium Laminate Transition Ramp 2.5m
Aluminium Laminate Edge 2.5m
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Tiling Tools Tiling Profiles
he best answer is to contact Falcon Tiling Products, manufacturers of a range of trims specifically designed to overcome
these problems.
Mosaic Tiles
Easy to work with, and requiring no special tools, the Falcon aluminium trims provide a superb and practical finish for these floorcovering installations and, due to their high MOH hardness rating, these aluminium trims can be used in high-traffic areas. For areas that have a combination of floorcoverings, there are special laminate-to-carpet, or laminate-to-tile trims to ensure a good finish to the two different surface joints. Furthermore, these trims can be anodised to a perfect matching colour to provide an aesthetically pleasing finish. Due to these floors having a lot of movement it is always a good
GAUTENG Tel: 011 849 6651
PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 083 534 2826
KWAZULU NATAL Tel: 073 104 2395
CAPE TOWN Tel: 082 627 9862
idea for these installations to be held in place with an aluminium end-cap profile; these profiles also protect the end of the installation and provide anti-slip properties. For more information: 011 849 6651 / www.falcontiling.co.za
www.falcontiling.co.za F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
45
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
BAMBOO
Buying tips
As with any product you use on a project, you want to have confi-
harder than maple depending on the species of bamboo used and when it was harvested. Teragren specifies only Optimum 5.5 Moso bamboo harvested at maturity (5½ to 6 years) when fibre density peaks. As a result, Teragren bamboo averages 25% harder than red oak and
dence in the quality, durability and consistency of the bamboo floor-
12% harder than North American maple.
ing, cabinetry panel, counter/table tops or veneer that you select.
boo with Xcora technology is 154% harder than
Teragren’s Portfolio and Synergy strand bam-
Here are some questions to ask as you search for the right bamboo
oak due to our optimised manufacturing pro-
product and the right bamboo source.
results and other performance data on every
cess. On our website you will find Janka ball test Teragren product.
What kind of finish is used? A durable finish is the first line of defence for lasting beauty in bamboo floors. On Teragren prefinished products, a water-based, solvent free, 7-coat German finish with an aluminium oxide wear layer is used to boost abrasion resistance, including two polyurethane topcoats for added protection. Developed with internationally known Klumpp Coatings, the finish carries a 25-year residential/10-year heavy-use commercial warranty.
How much formaldehyde is in the adhesive? All bamboo products are laminated and the industry standard for this laminating process has long mandated the use of urea-formaldehyde adhesives. However, some urea-formaldehyde adhesives emit much less formaldehyde than others.
. . . develops and manufactures all its own bamboo products, directly controlling manufacturing and product quality from one source . . .
Teragren’s proprietary manufacturing adhesives emit 0,03 ppm or less of formaldehyde, much less than most of the international emissions standards. Many of our products are available formaldehyde-free by special order.
What coordinating products are available? Teragren is the only bamboo flooring manufacturer that provides a full spectrum of coordinating flooring, stair parts and trim, architectural
Is all bamboo flooring alike?
46
casings, floor vents, panels, veneer, edge band-
No. Some bamboo floors are more durable
Is there a grading system for bamboo flooring?
than others or emit varying levels of volatile
No. Hardwood flooring is graded accord-
design.
organic compounds such as formaldehyde,
ing to certain standards. However, no US
Why Teragren?
depending upon how they are manufactured.
or international grading standards exist for
Unlike many bamboo suppliers, Teragren
Teragren’s floors are FloorScore-certified,
bamboo flooring; you must rely on the manu-
develops and manufactures all its own bamboo
which means they’ve all been tested for 78
facturer’s standards and warranties. Teragren
products, directly controlling manufacturing
VOCs, providing you with peace of mind
bamboo flooring, for example, comes with
and product quality from one source – from
knowing that they have achieved one of the
a lifetime structural warranty and a 25-year
harvest to distribution, guaranteed since 1994.
most rigorous indoor air quality standards in
residential/10-year heavy-use commercial
Also, it is noticeable that with bamboo floor-
ing and countertops to help you complete your
the world. Teragren also has a variety of floor-
finish warranty (except for Spectrum and
ing the focus on price is shifting to focus on
ing styles, colours and installation methods.
Elements flooring).
quality throughout the industry, and Teragren is
Information on specifications and test results,
How hard is the bamboo?
in the forefront of this trend.
including the Janka hardness test, is available
Hardness is the main factor in durability.
on our website.
Bamboo flooring can be as soft as pine and
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
For more information: Sean Howell 082 928 0383 / www.teragren.com
CONTACT: Sean Howell +27 82 928 0393 www.teragren.com
Feature Focus: Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
CRADLE TO CRADLE Silver certified
NEW TECHNOLOGY Replacing Laminates? At present, the developers of a new wood fibre technology are engaged in a publicity campaign in the industry. The technology is described as a new procedure for manufacturing hard floorcoverings, whereby a powdered mixture containing sawdust, binding agents and other additives is applied to a core and printed.
T
fully-developed innovation.
laminate flooring within ten years”. EPLF,
fibre technology may give rise to a new
the Association of European Producers of
product group in its own right, which, due
Laminate Flooring, which is an umbrella
to its characteristics, cannot be equated
organisation for leading companies in the
with laminate flooring or comply with the
European laminate flooring industry, is
regulations contained in laminate flooring
somewhat sceptical about such bold state-
standards.
he supplier claims that the new technology will “completely replace
ments. Ludger Schindler, president of EPLF and
Tarkett has announced that its linoleum products have been Cradle to Cradle Silver certified, based on five criteria: material
Laminate floors with natural-looking wood finishes – which account for at least 95% of
managing director of MeisterWerke, explains,
the total turnover in the market – are now
“So far, the European flooring industry has
produced using premium, established and
come up with a multitude of innovations.
sophisticated technologies. The manufactur-
Wood fibre technology may well be another
ers and their suppliers feel that they have an
of these that can also be used outside the
obligation to their customers to satisfy this
flooring industry – for wall coverings or
quality standard.
furniture fronts, for instance. But we on the
EPLF is therefore of the opinion that wood
EPLF board think it’s unrealistic to claim that
fibre technology-based products may fit bet-
laminate flooring will be pushed out of the
ter into the low-price segment and perhaps
market.”
into non-wood finishes.
EPLF managing director Peter H Meyer
The laminate flooring industry is an inno-
content; material re-utilisation/
puts forward another possible reason for the
vative sector and is always open to new
design for the environment;
advancement of the “powder faction”, as he
developments. One only has to think of the
calls the supplier of the new technology, “The
many different production techniques for
share of renewable energy and
reason behind the current PR campaign may
laminate flooring that exist (such as DPL, PDL
water stewardship during the
be that the supplier is hoping to gain new
and ESH), offering a variety of interesting
marketing potential for licence contracts.”
applications. They provide companies with
production process; and social responsibility principles.
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he certification looks at the chemical components of ingredients that are
in the products, assessing their effects on human and environmental health, as well as their ability to be recycled/composted. At the beginning of 2011, Tarkett signed a
partnership with the German scientific institute EPEA to deploy the Cradle to Cradle concept. Cradle to Cradle is a Registered Trademark
48
EPLF’s technical experts believe that wood
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Dr. Theo Smet, head of EPLF’s Technology Working Group, finds the idea behind the technology interesting, but he thinks that
the chance to progress and stand out from the competition. “Against this backdrop, wood fibre technol-
it is still early days for the method of using
ogy perhaps has a chance of becoming a
powder coating to manufacture flooring.
new technique in the manufacture of hard
For this reason, he believes that it will
floorcoverings, but it certainly won’t be the
be years until it is ready to market, as high
only one. Value for money remains the key
investments in research and development of
factor in all of this,” explains Volkmar Halbe,
products and machines are required.
member of the EPLF board and managing
He explains that, to date, there have been no convincing examples of the decorative
director of Parador. Either way, the European laminate flooring
impact or durability of powder-coated floor-
industry is in a good position and can stand
ing, and thinks it is more appropriate to talk
up to any challenge the competition has to
about a technology trial as opposed to a
offer.
Adhesive & Installation Although many quality flooring adhesives are regu-
country. Many of these are not only producing a
larly imported and sold in South Africa through sub-
wide range of adhesives to accommodate every
sidiary companies and appointed agents, the local
type of flooring material, but they often also pro-
manufacturers are amongst the best in the world in
duce subfloor smoothing compounds, resin floor-
terms of development, quality products, availability,
ing systems, repair mortars, floor screeds, bonding
and formulations to meet the specific needs of the
liquids, damp-proof membranes, tile adhesives and
market and the climatic variations throughout the
grouts to meet any installation requirement.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
49
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
ADHESIVES
Sticky side of flooring
Although many quality flooring adhesives are regularly imported and sold in South Africa through subsidiary companies and appointed agents, the local manufacturers are amongst the best in the world in terms of development, quality products, availability, and formulations to meet the specific needs of the market
TAL
and the climatic variations throughout the country.
50
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
M
any of these are not only produc-
improvement in adhesive technology to
adhesive available on the market; a new fix-
ing a wide range of adhesives to
ensure that they are adequately and consis-
ing system which makes the use of screws,
tently adhered.
nails, glue or clips completely unnecessary
accommodate every type of flooring mate-
during the laying of parquet and strip floors.
rial, but they often also produce subfloor
This means that acrylic-based and pres-
smoothing compounds, resin flooring sys-
sure-sensitive adhesives have become the
Although they provide wonderful floors,
tems, repair mortars, floor screeds, bonding
products of preference for a large number
solid strip floors are expensive and difficult
liquids, damp-proof membranes, tile adhe-
of flooring contractors who demand high
to control, so proper recognised adhesives
sives and grouts to meet any installation
performance from adhesives when fitting
and systems are vital.
requirement.
vinyl floorcoverings. Pressure-sensitive
Whereas previously sturdy and complex
In the construction market many authori-
adhesives that can be allowed to dry com-
sub-constructions and a lot of strong screws
ties and organisations are campaigning for
pletely before fixing are becoming increas-
were needed to prevent the inherent move-
more environmentally friendly or ‘green’
ingly popular with flooring contractors.
ment of the wood as much as possible, the
buildings, which means that these appli-
Vinyl, PVC and rubber flooring can also
producers of these floors now try to apply
cations require environmentally friendly
be installed using a two-part polyurethane
them floating which means that they are
adhesives and sealants, and in the past few
adhesive. This product is a reactive resin
not fixed to the surface. The result of this is
years great strides have been made by the
system where two components are mixed
advanced, hi-tech floor sections with inge-
adhesives industry to meet demands for the
together and a chemical reaction takes
nious click system connections.
use of fewer volatile organic compounds
place so that it will cure and harden suffi-
(VOC), thus reducing emissions and odours
ciently in 4-6 hours to take foot traffic.
that can contribute to respiratory problems
This adhesive does not contain any water
Using the elastic adhesive mat, the wooden sections are pressed together on the mat which has been previously rolled out and
or solvents so it has a very low emission
then the protective layer between the floor
level and its strength characteristics make it
and the mat is removed. Because of the
nation of binders (polymers and resins) that
ideal for fixing floorcoverings onto heated
heavy adhesive layer, this is a unique laying
provide adhesion; fillers (usually very fine
subfloors as well as in areas subjected to
system and subfloor in one which pulls the
aggregates) which give volume and influ-
high loads such as sports centres and indus-
floor segments together almost seamlessly.
ence the working consistency; and a liquid
trial premises.
Wood is a complex material but this system
(water and/or solvent) so that the adhesive
Wood, Laminates & Bamboo
solves many problems.
is workable during application and adhe-
Whether the floor is solid wood, engineered
sion is developed as the adhesive dries.
wood, laminate flooring or bamboo – all of
are required or favoured on some installa-
and poor air quality in buildings. In general, flooring adhesives are a combi-
However, traditional wood floor adhesives
The range of floorcoverings available
these alternative materials favour a floating
tions, and this type of fixing system works by
today has increased dramatically. In the
floor finish these days, particularly with the
creating a bond between the substrate and
early days the performance of the adhesive
advent of modern click systems that make
the flooring through a chemical reaction.
was not as critical because, for example,
installation a pleasure.
While all adhesives work on the same
the resilient flooring industry was largely
Of course, this style of installation obviates
principle of changing from a liquid to a solid
thermoplastic or linoleum flooring, where
the need for adhesives, but there are applica-
state, they differ in the carrying agent or cat-
adhesives based on asphalt or lignum paste
tions where the floor needs to be glued to
alyst that activates them. The most common
were used and found to be adequate in
the substrate, and in these instances a poly-
types of wood flooring adhesives include the
performance.
urethane adhesive or the new elastic adhe-
following:
However, floorcoverings and their requirements have changed. Flooring adhesives
sive system is the modern answer. However, several of these flooring systems
Water-based adhesives certified as ‘very low emission’ are the first choice for health
need higher performance levels so they
use a traditional tongue-and-groove fixing
and environmental protection. They are
can be used to install a greater variety of
system that does need an adhesive, and
free of solvents or VOCs and safe to install.
floorcoverings on a wide range of subfloors.
in these instances a specialised elastic or
However, their range of application con-
Some of the earlier adhesives contained a
one-part polyurethane adhesive is preferred
cerning certain types of wood or subfloor is
high proportion of solvents and, with today’s
because it has a certain elasticity that allows
limited.
health, safety and environmental require-
for the movement between the planks that
ments being the cause of ever-changing
inevitably takes place once installed.
Solvent-based adhesives are well proven for wood floor installation over several
regulations, flooring adhesive development
This type of adhesive is also used where
decades, offering a large range of applica-
has seen a considerable reduction in the use
these floors are required to be stuck down,
tion, but they contain non-hazardous sol-
of solvents in these products.
although a damp-proof sealer or moisture
vents which are said to evaporate during the
barrier must be applied to the substrate
first weeks after installation is completed.
Let’s take a look at what is preferred for
Urethane-based/moisture-cure adhesives
the various types of floorcovering:
before installation of the floor commences.
Resilient floorcoverings
Locally made liquid adhesives for batten sys-
offer the largest range of application and the
The types and requirements of vinyl
tems are also available.
highest installation security but are usually
floorcoverings have grown considerably over the years and this has demanded an
There is also a self adhesive mat (peel and stick operation) with a permanent bond
more expensive than other adhesives. These can be applied under almost any circum-
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
51
SHUTTERSTOCK
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
stances and have hardly any restrictions on
must be mixed with either water or an
will not crack. Modified cement adhesive
the type of wood or subfloor.
acrylic additive (some powdered thinsets
can be used both inside and outside and is a
Ceramic, porcelain and natural stone
have an additive already blended in); these
great choice for floors. Is supplied dry and is
The three main categories of setting materi-
have a stronger bond and are more flexible
mixed with water to use.
als that are used for these floors are mas-
than pre-mixed adhesives.
Fast-setting Tile Adhesive
tics, cement mortars and epoxy adhesive.
They can also support considerable weight,
This adhesive is used when the tiles need
Mastics are premixed and easy to use, but
so they are often favoured for flooring instal-
to be in service quicker than 12 hours. For
they are weak compared to cement mortars
lations, particularly as they can be used in
example, its use would allow ceramic floor
and don’t hold up under exposure to water,
wet areas as well as those exposed to heat.
tiles to be laid in the morning and walked
so they are not recommended for floors or use in wet areas. Epoxy adhesives are commonly used for
on 4 hours later. Sharon Hill, technical adviser for TAL, one
coloured tiles, but if a light-coloured grout
of the leading local adhesive manufacturers,
industrial flooring applications. These are
is being used, it is preferable to use the
says, “As far as we are concerned the most
usually high-performance, three-compo-
white thinset.
significant development in tile adhesives
nent, epoxy-based adhesives used for a
Let’s look at the other options:
is still rapid-setting adhesive technology,
variety of materials, ensuring full bond and
Cement-based Tile Adhesive
maximum adhesion to these components.
This type of tile adhesive is used for general
“These ‘rapidsets’ are suitable for a wide
Because of its high strength and resilience,
which is ideal for fast-track installations.”
tiling on solid concrete floors, and is gener-
range of tiles including vitrified tiles such as
this type of adhesive is ideal for bonding
ally cheaper than other types of tile adhesive
porcelain, as well as natural stone products
ceramic tile, pavers, acid-brick, and steel
as it is a basic, cement-based, non-flexible
such as marble, granite, sandstone, slate –
floor plates in areas where there is heavy
adhesive. This adhesive should not be used
ranging from 2-hour, 6-hour and 12-hour
wheeled or foot traffic, impact or abrasive
on cracked cement floors or where some
setting products, and are not only rapid-set-
wear, or thermal shock.
movement is expected. It is supplied dry and
ting, but also high-strength and shrinkage-
is mixed with water before being applied.
compensated.”
Cement mortars, of which there are several varieties, are strong and can stand up under exposure to water and many other stresses placed on a tile installation. Cement mortars are often called ‘thinset mortars’, which come in powder form and
52
Thinsets are often available in dark grey or white – the latter favoured for light-
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Modified Cement-based Tile Adhesive This tile adhesive is often modified to
“Also, polymer-modified adhesives with enhanced bond strength, flexibility and
cope with small amounts of movement. It
water resistance are high-end products that
has rubber and polymers in it so that if the
only require the addition of water, minimis-
substrate cracks or moves slightly the tile
ing the risk of mixing errors on site,” she says.
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
Natural stone
It is important for the adhesive to bond
carpeted area for a day or two. The carpet
When installing natural stone floors, take
well with the substrate.
adhesive, depending on the quality, will
the advice of the supplier, because the
usually keep the carpet firmly in place for
Some high-performance commercial
differences in their colour, structure and
adhesives bond well with cement, sheet
several years.
porosity will determine what type of adhe-
underlays and concrete. Others may bond
Installation
sive should be used, and what is required to
well with plywood and hardboard. Some
The pertinent points of the installation of
effect a perfect installation.
versatile adhesives may be used with all
each type of flooring covered above have
Carpets
types of floors.
been mentioned in the text, but to get the
A carpet adhesive is often used instead
It is a good idea to check out the differ-
view of people at the sharp end, FLOORS in
of carpet tacks for keeping a carpet well
ent carpet adhesive products available
Africa contacted a prominent flooring con-
grounded and in place, and regularly used
in the market. Most of these usually offer
tractor – Peter Simon (PS), managing direc-
for installing wall-to-wall carpet and stair-
detailed information on the kinds of carpets
tor of Albert Carpets, Cape Town.
way carpeting.
and substrates the adhesive can be used
What is the latest innovation, or what you
with. It might also help to get advice from a
consider to be the most useful recent develop-
There are adhesives that come pre-applied
professional carpet installation company if
ment in the installation of floors?
to carpets. These adhesive-backed carpets
necessary.
PS: InterfaceFLOR have developed Tactile, a
Carpet adhesives come in two main types.
make carpet installation a simple matter.
Many modern carpet adhesive companies
small self-adhesive square which connects
Other adhesives come in a spreadable form
are going green. Their products use water as
carpet tiles to each other, eliminating the
and must be applied to the carpet backing
the vehicle and are generally non-toxic and
need for adhesives.
with a trowel or a roller
non-flammable. The other ingredients, such
What would you say are the biggest and most
as binders, fillers, preservatives and viscosity
prevalent problems that flooring contractors
controls, are also safe and less volatile.
find on site?
The spreadable type of carpet adhesive is more versatile and can be used for a wide range of carpeting, including smooth or
Carpet adhesives can come in a white, off-
PS: Wet and sandy screeds, and uneven
coarse-backed carpets, soft underlay, ure-
white or creamy paste form. The adhesive
power-floated subfloors which we are
thane-laminated underlay, carpet tiles, and
can be acrylic-based or synthetic rubber-
expected to transform into mirror smooth
so on, but it is necessary to match the right
based. Before applying the carpet adhe-
surfaces – all at nil or minimal cost to the
type of spreadable adhesive to a particular
sive, it is advisable to test the substrate for
client.
type of carpet backing.
moisture, as this may prevent the adhesive
How does ‘green’ building affect the flooring
from setting effectively.
contractor? And do you find these require-
If the carpet adhesive and carpet backing combination is not correct, the car-
Once the adhesive is spread, the carpet
pet installation will be less than perfect.
should be laid on immediately, positioned
PS: Green issues have become important
The type of carpet adhesive to use also
and rolled with a heavy roller.
and have rightfully raised awareness of the
substrate on which the carpet is to be laid.
Once this is done, the adhesive should be left to dry properly. Avoid walking on the
importance of best practice with regard to waste, recycling, and other environmental issues. Sadly, there is still a lot of “greenwashing” in the industry. Does the flooring contractor get a fair shake when it comes to budget running out at the end of a project (as probably the last item to be installed); and do you often suffer at the hands of a ‘fast track’ application? PS: Being at the tail end of a project, and because there are such wide cost variances between qualities, this often results in the cheapest products being installed. If only clients would do a lifecycle costing of products! ‘Fast track’ is a misnomer for throwing all finishing trades into a space together and then complaining about the quality of the finished product!! Acknowledgement and thanks are given to the following for information used in the compilation
ALBERT CARPETS
depends to a large extent on the type of
ments to be on the increase?
of this article: www.ardex.co.uk; Steven Suntup (Suntups Wooden Flooring); Roelf Verster (Azura); Alex Pugh (FloorworX); Sharon Hill (TAL – a division of Norcros SA); Peter Simon (Albert Carpets)
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
53
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
TILING
A professional choice
T
he company has long been the brand of choice for tiling contractors, architects
and specifiers and its products are used in many prestigious developments throughout
TAL, a division of Norcros SA – which is a wholly owned subsidiary of
the country.
Norcros UK, has been a leader in the tile adhesives industry in South
South Africa at its specialist plants located in
Africa for more than 40 years. Its mission is to deliver quality and
Olifantsfontein and Spartan, Gauteng, as well as
innovative tiling installation solutions that add value to its customers’
mence manufacturing later this year. The com-
All TAL products are manufactured in
in Cape Town, and its Durban facility will company’s plants in Spartan and Olifantsfontein are
businesses.
ISO 9001:2008 certified and plans are in place to obtain ISO certification for its Cape Town and Durban facilities. “Our products undergo a series of in-process quality checks in our technical laboratories,” says Thomas Willcocks, managing director for Norcros SA. “Each batch manufactured is tested individually. These tests include pot life, setting time, mix consistency, self-healing properties and flow characteristics.” TAL is ISO 9001:2000 accredited and its products are designed, manufactured and tested to TAL standards, assuring customers that products will perform to specification. Specialised research laboratories dedicated to developing products that are specifically compatible with the harsh South African climate conditions have resulted in the development of innovative rapid-set, flexible tile adhesives and self-levelling screeds. New products are developed and benchmarked to meet EN Standards and all current products are tested every six months against this benchmark. “Our customers as well as end-users have access to the expertise of our highly qualified
TAL adhesive bags ready for distribution
technical advisory staff, which is able to offer advice on any aspect of tiling installations,” he says. Where required, calls are followed up with a free-of-charge detailed Materials and Methods specification, specific to the installation. “Our advisory service, which is well established and highly respected, can be contacted on 0860 000 TAL(825). We are also able to offer on-site technical advice,” he says. The TAL warranty programme offers a 10-year warranty on any tiling installation, provided a Materials and Methods specification is issued by TAL for the project, TAL products are used in strict accordance with the specification, and the installation is undertaken by a TAL-registered
Flow test for TAL Screedmaster to measure the flow ability of this screed that can be poured or pumped
56
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Testing the self-healing properties of TAL Screedmaster
tiler and monitored by TAL. For more information: 011 206 9700 / 0860 000 TAL(825) / visit www.tal.co.za.
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
PACKAGING
TAL is changing its product packaging to simplify the selection process for the end-user and tiling contractor.
A
What’s inside counts preparation, mixing, application and storage is also supplied. The TAL Technical Advice Centre number 0860
s a leading supplier of tile adhesives,
to make it simple to identify the products
000 TAL(825) is provided on the packaging for
primers, additives, grouts, screeds,
when they are stacked on site, for example,
customers that require additional assistance.
waterproofing and repair compounds, TAL is a
adhesive bags.
one-stop shop for tiling solutions and the pro-
The back part of the packaging contains
products are designed, manufactured and
fessional choice when it comes to tiling.
clear and precise instructions on how to
tested to TAL standards, ensuring customers
apply the product as well as the tools and
that products will perform to specification.
Its packaging may be changing, but custom-
TAL is ISO 9001:2000 accredited and its
ers can still expect the same reliable, top-
equipment required. The installation pro-
quality products that they’ve come to trust
cess is provided in text and picture format.
is making it easier for customers to choose
from TAL.
The ‘how to’ instructions are in a condensed
the right products they require to get the job
format for quick reading and are followed
done quickly and efficiently.
Often it is the home decorator that is pur-
Thanks to its new product packaging, TAL
chasing the tiling products for the contractor,
by additional instructions that go into great-
For more information: 011 206 9700 /
or the contractor selecting the product for the
er detail. Information relating to surface
0860 000 TAL(825) / visit www.tal.co.za.
tilers on site. The updated packaging equips applicators as well as architects, specifiers and decorators with clear information that is straightforward to understand so that they can rest assured that they are purchasing or specifying the correct products. “Quality is the cornerstone of our business and because we guarantee the performance of our products we want to ensure that customers select the correct product for the job at hand,” says Gela Ohl, brand manager at TAL. The improved packaging complies with the Consumer Protection Act and contains clear and precise instructions for the installer to follow. The following elements are outlined and visible on the packaging: On the front of the packaging is information on what the product does, what it is used
TAL adhesives provide good wet out resulting in excellent coverage on the back of the tile
for and its main features and benefits. The information is provided in text and through illustrations for easy understanding. The four-digit product number included on the bottom left of the packaging makes it easy for customers to order and specify products by number and this is especially helpful when compiling specifications where a combination of products needs to be used. The size and weight of the packaging is indicated on the right-hand side, and, for heavier products, there is a warning notice to be cautious as the product is heavy to lift and handle. Product information is repeated at the bottom and on either side of the packaging
TAL adhesives: easy to spread with a floor/wall trowel, forming perfect ridges, which provide good contact to the back of the tile for a perfect bond
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
57
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
TESTING ADHESIVES
SA’s first!
Ceramics testing laboratory Cermalab is expanding its portfolio of services to include the testing of tile adhesives. This makes it the only independent laboratory to provide standards and strength testing of tile adhesives in South Africa.
Tile adhesive test
“T
his new venture comes as a result of an
the field. The laboratory has a collaboration
savings and a quicker turnaround time for
industry need that has existed for quite
agreement with the Council for Scientific &
manufacturers who previously had to send
Industrial Research (CSIR).
their products overseas for testing.
some time now,” says Pieter du Toit, managing member of Cermalab. “It is a perfect
According to Bruce Berger, technical
Cermalab and the industry have invested
fit with our other operations and, in time,
member of Cermalab, the laboratory has
in facilities, equipment and training to
we would like to be in a position where we
adopted the Brazilian NBR 14081 standard
be able to provide this service. The South
not only test tile adhesives for quality and
for tile adhesive testing because the tile
African tile adhesives market is closely
strength, but also provide the industry with
market and weather conditions in South
linked to its tile production market which
advice on how to enhance the quality of
and Southern Africa more closely resemble
produces approximately 1.4 million square
their products.”
those in Brazil than in Europe. The Brazilian
metres of tiles per month (which requires
NBR 14081 standard is a “daughter” of the
±4000 tonnes of tile adhesives per month).
Cermalab has been operating as a private, independent laboratory since 2002, its
58
Pieter Du Toit & Bruce Berger
European EN 12004 standard.
focus being on the testing and characteri-
Berger says having a local, independent
sation of ceramics, refractories and heavy
and soon-to-be-accredited laboratory for
clays. They also provide training courses in
testing tile adhesives means both cost
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
For more information: 012 841 2445 / bberger@cermalab.co.za / www.cermalab.co.za
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
SOLUTIONS
Flooring Adhesives
As a manufacturer, importer and distributor of a wide variety of high-quality floorcoverings, FloorworX boasts a sales programme which also includes the best in flooring adhesives, thereby ensuring that the correct adhesive is used for every installation.
T
he commonly used adhesive in the
product is suitable for bonding resilient
bonding Marmoleum sheeting to cement
FloorworX adhesives assortment is
vinyl flooring products, including Flotex, to
screeds. This product appears as an off-white
cement screeds.
paste with medium open time, coupled with a
FloorworX Number 60 Plus Adhesive, which is
60
a water-based, acrylic dispersion adhesive,
FloorworX Number 65 Marmoleum Acrylic
specially developed to meet the flooring
Adhesive is a water-based, acrylic emulsion
contractor’s need for a high-performance,
adhesive specially produced to meet the need
based, acrylic emulsion adhesive specially
multi-purpose flooring adhesive. This
for a high-performance adhesive suitable for
developed to meet the flooring contractor’s
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
strong final bond. FloorworX Number 50 Adhesive is a water-
Feature Focus: Adhesive & I nstallation
. . . equalising electrostatic charges whilst simultaneously reducing the danger of electric shocks from mains-connected equipment. need for a high-performance, multi-purpose
of electric shocks from mains-connected
as FloorworX Transport flooring as well as
flooring adhesive. FloorworX Number 50 is
equipment.
FloorworX Extruda flexible PVC extrusions,
particularly suitable for bonding PVC laminate flooring products to cement screeds.
FloorworX Number 55 Adhesive is a twopart polyurethane adhesive that is suitable
Intrad and Pro-Trim accessories. In general terms, FloorworX stresses the
for use when laying Nora synthetic rubber
need for perfect surface preparation for all its
specialised adhesives. One such adhesive is
flooring onto concrete sub-floors or smooth
products. Concrete subfloors must be sound,
FloorworX Number 27 Adhesive.
metal decks.
clean, smooth and completely dry.
FloorworX also markets a wide range of
FloorworX Number 27 is a water-based,
Last but not least, the FloorworX Number 71
Surfaces must also be free of dust, grease,
carbon-loaded acrylic adhesive that has been
Adhesive is also included in the range. This is
oil or any other contaminants, and it must be
specifically formulated for the installation of
a solvent-based contact adhesive specially
noted that moisture in the sub-floor will react
antistatic or conductive flooring where pre-
developed to answer the flooring industry’s
adversely with the adhesive during the curing
cise limits of electrical resistance are essential.
need for a high-performance, multi-purpose
period, so this needs to be carefully checked
contact adhesive.
before proceeding with the installation.
The complete flooring system acts as a medium for equalising electrostatic charges whilst simultaneously reducing the danger
It is suitable for bonding Superflex Wall Cladding, specialist flooring types such
For more information: 0860 346 679 or www.floorworx.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
61
Cement & Concrete No longer just the dark grey slab collecting oil
to none, concrete is becoming one of the most
under the car in the garage, or hidden away in
popular flooring choices currently available, and
a warehouse or storage area, concrete floors are
there are several options for designers and end
now the ‘in’ look for trendy modern residential and
users to choose from, including polished, stained,
commercial applications. With a huge range of
and stamped concrete.
colours and styles and a durability that is second
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
63
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
CEMCRETE
CEMENT & CONCRETE Scope for the designer
64
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
No longer just the dark grey slab collecting oil under the car in the garage, or hidden away in a warehouse or storage area, concrete floors are now the ‘in’ look for trendy modern residential and commercial applications.
W
ith a huge range of colours and styles and a durability
that is second to none, concrete is becoming one of the most popular flooring choices currently available, and there are several options for designers and end users to choose from, including polished, stained, and stamped concrete.
Polished concrete Regularly used even in the most upmarket of homes, a polished concrete floor can give the illusion of a highly waxed surface without the hard work or slipping hazard. Almost any concrete surface can be buffed down to a high shine, including older floors that are in good condition, and the look can become even more dramatic depending on the colour of concrete that is used.
Acid Stain Concrete Acid staining is another concrete flooring treatment that can be used on existing concrete for a decorative touch. The stain consists of a solution of acid and water mixed with metallic salts that can be applied in a variety of colours. The effect is a natural-looking colour pattern with mottled shades of the same hue. This concrete flooring finish looks classy in new homes,
Stamped Concrete Stamped concrete is a particularly popular trend in patios, but it can have a dramatic effect on interior floors as well. Stamping concrete involves using a tool on fresh con-
. . . concrete is becoming one of the m ost popular flooring choices currently available . . .
TECHNICAL FINISHES
and it is very easy to maintain.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
65
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
LAFARGE
intro crete to provide a textured appearance. A stamped concrete floor can resemble tile, brick or even wood grain, and stencils can be used to provide an even greater variation of designs. This effect is generally used with a single colour so the pattern can stand on its own. By combining different colours and patterns, your choices are nearly limitless. Concrete flooring provides so many options for any commercial or home
with dust mites, mould, mildew, and
flooring that is structurally sound and in
bacteria – while costing a fraction of
good condition.
many other flooring finishes.
Modern home designs are using creative
Chemically resistant, these seamless
applications of epoxy and urethanes to
floors are made of epoxy and urethanes
replace many other expensive, high-main-
that are also resistant to dirt and stains,
tenance and fragile floor surfaces, and now
and impervious to water.
everyone can have great-looking floors that
These flow-coated surfaces stick to the
are not subject to mould, mildew, warping,
concrete surface without chipping, peel-
or dissolving—and are easy to maintain.
ing or lifting. With good preparation,
Cleaning is easy – a quick string mopping
they provide a permanent surface that
removes any dirt brought in, and these
requires little or no maintenance.
floors can be cleaned to hospital standards
Great new looks are also available.
maintenance, it is no wonder concrete
in minutes, look great, remove problems
Floors can be made to look like other
flooring has become the trend of today.
Cleaning is easy – a quick string mopping removes any dirt brought in, and these floors can be cleaned to hospital standards in minutes . . .
application, both indoors and out. With bold styles and colours and relatively low
Epoxy floors and concrete overlays One of the easiest and least expensive ways of brightening up an existing concrete floor is by using polymer coatings or overlays. This technique involves pouring a layer of tinted polymer over the existing floor to add colour and design. This
66
process should only be used on concrete
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
surfaces such as granite, tile and slate. Logos, stripes and even sparkly floors are now appearing in restaurants, garages, basements, as well as upmarket homes.
Screeds & Toppings Screeds play an important role in the floorcovering industry. There is a wide
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
final floor finish if provided with a protec-
issue, but wear is. Prior to the development
floor levelling repair type compounds,
tive epoxy or polyurethane seal coat – par-
of this type of screeding, adhesion to the
self-levelling decorative screeds and some
ticularly one that provides a clear finish
substrate caused applicators more prob-
heavy duty high impact performance
that will not alter the look of the screeding
lems than anything else, but with develop-
screeds for various industrial environments.
compound – if that is a requirement of the
ments in preparation and the advent of
Some of these are decorative in nature
installation.
these new materials that has largely disap-
range of screeds available starting with
whilst with others the emphasis is on pro-
Although available in a range of colours,
peared.
tection of the work environment.
these products are generally carriers for
In most applications screeds are used as
other flooring systems such as vinyl flooring,
national industrial flooring specifications, so
the substrate for other flooring materi-
where an exceptionally smooth surface and
it pays to get confirmation from the client
als, which include carpets and vinyl tiles.
levelling capabilities are a necessity.
on what the floor will be subjected to in
Another difficulty is that there are no
Self-levelling screeds here are found to
It must be remembered that the charac-
be most useful particularly on concrete
teristics of screeds and toppings may differ
bases that lack a power-floated finish.
considerably depending on the use to which
Refurbishment projects form a major part
Concrete toppings are preferred to sand-
they will be put, so it pays to seek the advice
of industrial flooring, and for these applica-
cement screeds.
of an expert, or pose your questions to the
tions downtime needs careful scheduling
Cement & Concrete Institute to get the cor-
by capable contractors. This can be catered
a layer of high-strength concrete designed
rect answers.
for – especially when products which have
to provide a dense, abrasion-resistant sur-
Industrial flooring
very short cure times are at the disposal of
face on a concrete base, or to increase the
Perhaps the most demanding industrial floors
the applicator.
structural depth and strength of a base
from a performance point of view are those
slab, and may be used with reinforcement
which are subjected to heavy wear and chem-
to the following for their help and input
to control cracking if necessary. Decorative
ical attack, and in recent years cementitious
in the compilation of this article: Bryan
finishes of this product type are becoming
polyurethane screeds have largely satisfied
Perrie of the Cement & Concrete Institute;
more readily available.
the demands of this sector of the market.
Rod Parker and Rory Maritz of Technical
Resin-modified, cement-based screeding is
Finishes; Lance Anderson of TAL, a division
also popular where chemical attack is not an
of Norcros SA.
On the other hand, toppings are in effect
However, self-levelling screeds and smoothing compounds can be used as a
terms of impact, traffic and wear to determine the correct specification to use.
Acknowledgement and thanks are given
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
67
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
ART
Polished C concrete
oncrete floors are no longer the Cinderella of the flooring industry.
Polished concrete floors are now regularly in demand in practically every sector of the construction industry – from luxury homes to casinos, shopping centres, public buildings and, of course, industrial applications of all
One of the most exciting developments in the provision of cost-effec-
kinds. They can also be used for new building developments or refurbishment projects.
tive, trouble-free, aesthetically pleasing, hardwearing and durable
The success of polished concrete has
flooring is the grinding and polishing technology applied to one of
depended largely on the development of the
the world’s oldest flooring materials – concrete.
the dry grinding methods utilised today. The
equipment and diamond tools that provide grinding and polishing method mechanically refines the concrete surface by removing the surface paste (laitance) and exposing the stronger concrete beneath. The existing concrete is ground and polished using the correct polishing equipment and diamond tools. The result is a floor with a completely even polished surface of a high quality, both functionally and aesthetically. By using different diamond grit sizes and bonding matrix in the diamond segments the depth of the grind into the concrete surface can be controlled. The grinding depth will affect how much of the stones are exposed and the appearance of the polished surface. The initial investment is the same, or lower, than for traditional flooring solutions, but the low maintenance cost and the longer life polished concrete make it a lucrative investment option for an industrial floor and in many other environments. The lifecycle cost is about 60% less than for traditional flooring solutions. Refined in Sweden, this method for the grinding and polishing of concrete floors is done with diamond tools in several steps with gradually smaller and smaller diamond grit sizes. The process consists of grinding, refinement, impregnation and polishing; this procedure gives the surface a highgloss polish and all the qualities that are expected of it. However, this is a job for the experienced professional with the right equipment, HTC
because each procedural step in producing
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F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
the finished result relies on the use of spe-
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
LAFARGE
. . . polished concrete contributes to a cleaner environment and also a better working environment. cialist machinery for the preparation of the
environment. It has a low lifecycle cost, long
of these floors, they do need regular but
floor through to the finished project.
endurance and is the natural flooring choice
considerably less attention than most
for the future in industry, retail and public
other floor finishes utilising conventional
areas like education and health care.
floor cleaning machinery and specialised
Nevertheless, having a polished concrete floor is an extremely economical option for all types of business activities. Compared with
Having concrete as an exposed, highly
diamond impregnated floor cleaning pads.
traditional methods for concrete floors or
polished floor surface means that dirty,
These pads were invented in Sweden and
epoxy, for example, it offers unbeatable dura-
grey concrete floors are transformed into
are used all over the world today.
bility, and should have an unlimited lifespan
brilliant, easy-to-clean, environment-
– the same as the lifespan of the building.
friendly and durable polished concrete
allows you to keep all types of floors
The cleaning method of these machines
In these times of increased interest in
floors. Several factors will affect the final
(including industrial floors) clean with the
environment-friendly solutions this con-
appearance: the stone quality and colour;
minimum of effort. All that is required is
cept has been compared to other common
the colour of the cement (which can be
water – no chemicals or polishing agents –
floors in industrial, public and retail envi-
pigmented); the concrete quality; and the
which is gentler on floors and produces bril-
ronments. The results were unambiguous:
grinding depth. (It is even possible to incor-
liant results. If required, the diamond pads
polished concrete contributes to a cleaner
porate company logos in the finished floor.)
used will fit most of the scrubbing machines
environment and also a better working
Regarding the cleaning and maintenance
on the market.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
69
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
With a polished concrete surface, maintenance time and costs are greatly reduced. The floor needs only a regular pass with a floor maintenance machine. It is virtually impossible to mark this type of floor with forklift tyres, and any liquid spills can be easily cleaned up. The floor is also extremely hardwearing and with the correct maintenance the concrete polished floor will provide decades of use. To underline the versatility of these floors, they are also ideal for use in the electronic industry which has stringent requirements in its laboratory and manufacturing environments. The resistance tests conducted, both on floor joists and on concrete slabs on the ground, show that polished floors can comply with the SS-EN 61340-5-1 standard for industrial floors in the electronics industry. Measured values fall within the range for the international IEC standard and the American ANSI/ESD standard too. Walk-around tests with ESD shoes generally produce low or no static. The limits stipulated in the standard for the handling of electronics have not been exceeded in any case. Let’s summarise the benefits of having a polished concrete floor: It has virtually no impact on global warming; or on acidification and eutrophication; it provides excellent friction on wet or dry surfaces; uses much less energy for new installations; is virtually vibration-free for trucks; it is hardwearing, durable, shiny and provides a beautiful floor while complying with the standards for industrial flooring in the electronics industry. The environment and your bottom line both benefit too.
HTC
As can be seen from the above, polished concrete is also very well suited
70
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
for many other environments, for example supermarkets, stores, schools, hospitals, libraries, offices, garages and even in home environments.
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
71
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
RENOVATING Beautiful floor innovations can be achieved with Cemcrete.
CreteCote is a superbly suitable product when it comes to the renovation of old floors, to restore, revamp and enhance the surface,
Concrete Beauty
C
reteCote, the latest addition to Cemcrete’s floor product range, is a skim-on decora-
tive layer that adds colour and vibrancy to old, tired screeds. Different applications lead to vary-
and is maintained easily for longevity. CreteCote offers adaption to
ing colour patterns or smooth mottling uniform
any style with its gorgeous colour selection, versatility in its various
used to coat precast concrete counter tops, giving
finishes, and flexibility in its application.
surfaces, and much more. CreteCote can also be them new life. It is a multi-purpose concrete topping designed to transform tired and distressed concrete into a beautiful, new wear-resistant surface. It is a coloured, versatile, durable and waterproof cement-based topping for both interior and exterior surfaces. CreteCote is designed to be a smooth application onto various surfaces such as steel-floated concrete, as well as for the maintenance of unwanted tiles, previously carpeted areas, and so forth. It is applied no thicker than 1,5 - 2mm (and can layer up to 4mm if more than one layer is needed,
. . . a multi-purpose concrete topping designed to transform tired and distressed concrete into a beautiful, new wear-resistant surface.
with a light sanding between each layer) and will therefore hardly affect the level of your floor’s surface – eliminating the worry of having to shave your doors shorter because you’d like to renovate. CreteCote is supplied in a 15kg twin-pack plastic drum to make the mixing process so much easier. Once applied, the final surface texture is beautifully smooth, but it can be manipulated to achieve your desired look. For example, use a wool roller to create a stippled texture for shower floors to prevent a slippery surface. With a range of ten earthy colours (which can be mixed to create your own colour) CreteCote will suit any decor theme. Once the final surface has cured, other finishes can be applied to give an extra personal feel; use Cemcrete’s CreteStain to permanently colour-stain the surface as desired for a lasting colour effect. CreteCote is fast becoming the most favoured renovation alternative for professionals and homeowners alike. Its superior aesthetics and general quality leave desirable and timeless finishes on any floor surface. For design inspiration visit our newly opened show room at 227 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg, or visit our Ideas Centres at 8 Telford Street, Industria, Johannesburg, and 1 Franschhoek Crescent, Panorama, Cape Town. Also see our website at www.cemcrete.co.za for information about our other products.
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F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus:Cement & Concrete
PROJECTS
Art of concrete
Two projects using the unique Artevia Polish product from Lafarge Readymix have recently been completed that emphasise the aesthetic appeal of these hardworking floors.
A
t the new Yamaha showroom in Johannesburg North, 504 cubic
metres of this product, 120mm thick, was used for the floor which, inside the facility, comprised 13mm grey aggregates without pigment and, for the outside areas, with Charcoal pigment. Micro-fibres were provided in this 30MPa concrete, and expansion joints provided with normal saw cuts. The main contractor, Gothic, placed the concrete and Lafarge-approved applicator
The use of Artevia Polish in Yamaha’s new Jhb North showroom complements its stylish, contemporary look and feel.
Stucco Italiano polished the floor, thus providing a durable concrete floor that is easy to clean and can readily accommodate the motorbikes, cars and other equipment that will be regularly moved in and out of the showroom. The client, customers and the architect are happy with the final result of this flooring project which was completed before the store opened.
. . . 390 cubic metres of 100mm thick topping was provided for the floor . . . For the Super Spar in Kempton Park, 390 cubic metres of 100mm thick topping was
The glossy, easy-to-clean floor in the Kempton Park Super Spar is attractive and durable.
provided for the floor of the store, which was fully operational while work progressed, so placing the concrete in demarcated zones was a challenge. White marble 13mm aggregates and brown aggregates without pigment were provided for this project, and microfibres were added to the 30MPa concrete. Expansion joints were normal saw cuts, but
photographer: Marcus Modimokwane
the client also used some plastic filler.
74
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Ocean Trading was the contractor on this project – an approved Lafarge applicator that is equipped with HTC polishing machines and is actively marketing Artevia. The client, customers and the architect are happy with the final product, and Lafarge obtained several enquiries and interest from the shoppers. For further information: 011 657 0000 / 083 656 8586 / anathi.zitumane@lafarge.com
Feature Focus: The per formers
LAFARGE
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
75
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
PROTECTING CONCRETE Polymeric chemistry
eleven years and has been instrumental in
today and serves to highlight the need for
the design, specification and implementa-
careful and correct concrete protection.
tion of polymeric systems for many local
Verni also offers the added advantage of
and international construction and develop-
not only specifying the correct system for
For generations concrete has
ment projects.
the environment, but providing a supply
been the material of choice
concrete protection system is a vital ele-
the flooring market – eliminating the often-
ment in any construction project. Ensuring
encountered problem of split guarantees
that the concrete protection is adequate –
between suppliers and applicators.
when it comes to floors. What has changed over time is how the concrete floors are protected
The design and specification of the correct
especially on the floors – remains one of the key elements that is often overlooked. In identifying this shortcoming, Verni has
and application scenario that is unique in
Whatever the application, from severe chemical environments to fulfilling the aesthetic requirements of a project – choosing
from erosion, corrosion, mechan-
implemented a “cradle-to-grave” system
and implementing the correct, fit-for-pur-
ical and chemical damage.
which covers all aspects of the project from
pose system is a key factor in ensuring that
design to specification, installation and
your project starts well and finishes well.
T
maintenance, and Verni has the experience
Verni-Speciality Construction Products
he advent of improved polymer
and expertise to advise on and implement
fulfils a pivotal role in assisting the profes-
chemistry in recent years has led to
the correct systems for each application,
sional and end-user in identifying problem
the development of a variety of polymeric
from thin-film epoxy systems through to
areas at design stage and ensuring that all
systems for the protection and aesthetic
polyurethane screeds and acid brick and tile
aspects are addressed and problems avoid-
enhancement of concrete.
linings.
ed from step one, thus providing a success-
Verni-Speciality Construction Products
To paraphrase an old English idiom, “A
has been at the forefront of the polymeric
project that starts badly will end badly!”
flooring industry in South Africa for the past
This has never been more relevant than it is
ful project to a happy, satisfied customer! For further information: 086 118 3764 / vernon@verni.co.za
VERNI F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
77
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
GREEN WATERPROOFING matryx K11, one of a new range
the market, has already proved exceptionally
cementitious self-levelling underlay (compat-
of a.b.e. Construction Chemicals
effective for waterproofing problems on struc-
ible with matryx K11) to accept the vinyl floor-
tures such as the new Basil Read head office
ing provided by Polyflor.
eco-friendly waterproofing prod-
in Boksburg, and the Gautrain tunnel at Park
ucts launched in May this year,
Station in Johannesburg.
has already proved its worth in
the floors and, within only eight days, the
Another approved a.b.e. applicator, Indufloor,
the building industry.
moisture content had dropped to below
was then appointed to apply the system. The
“matryx K11 was applied to a test area of
“We suggested our 6mm abescreed SLCP system, incorporating SLCP primer, which was duly accepted by both Group 5 and Polyflor.
T
3%. This was sufficient proof for Group 5 to
flooring project was successfully completed
he new “green” cementitious waterproof-
approve the application of matryx K11 to the
and – despite the tight schedule – with time
ing system protects and waterproofs con-
entire floor area. The project was success-
to spare,” Nieuwoudt added.
crete structures by crystallisation. It recently
fully handled by Suburban Waterproofing, an
For more information: 011 306 9000 /
proved to be the answer to deal with hydro-
approved a.b.e. applicator,” Nieuwoudt stated.
www.abe.co.za
static pressure on all the concrete floors of the
“We are experiencing major market acclaim
new Netcare private hospital at Waterfall City
for matryx K11, a revolutionary product. The
in Midrand.
active chemicals in matryx K11 react with the
a.b.e. Technical Sales Consultant, Paul Nieuwoudt, says a.b.e. was approached by
moisture in the concrete to crystallise in the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete.
Group 5 for a fast-track solution to lower the
“In this way, the concrete is protected
unacceptably high moisture content of the
against penetration by water or any other
concrete floors to below 3% to allow vinyl
liquids – from any direction. The new environ-
flooring to be placed within an extremely tight
ment-friendly product strongly resists impact
schedule.
and abrasion, provides corrosion protection,
“Initial moisture content tests showed that
and is suitable for both positive and nega-
there was over 20% moisture in the concrete.
tive waterproofing of concrete structures,” he
We recommended the use of our new matryx
explained.
K11 system which, although relatively new on
78
Early success
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Group 5 then asked a.b.e. to suggest a
a.b.e.’s new matryx K11 waterproofing system was used to treat hydrostatic pressure on the concrete floors at the new Netcare hospital in Waterfall City, pictured under construction.
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
STRONGER
Unilever Floor
When the floor of Unilever’s newly built 25 000m2 premises at River
Horse Valley in Durban needed to be strengthened in a hurry, the project engineers turned to Sika, one of the leading suppliers of flooring materials to the construction industry.
x 15ℓ kits) and Colma Cleaner (x 5). Sika’s CarboDur Plates are pultruded, carbon fibrereinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates specifically designed for strengthening concrete, timber and masonry structures and, as such, are light and easy to install. Sikadur-30 is a solvent-free, thixotropic, structural, two-component adhesive based on epoxy resins and special fillers, designed for use at normal temperatures, and used for bonding structural reinforcing. Sikadur-31 CF Normal is a solvent-free, moisture-tolerant, thixotropic, structural, twopart adhesive and repair mortar based on a combination of epoxy resins and special fillers. Designed for use at temperatures between +10°C and +30°C, it is used as a structural adhesive and mortar and offers very good adhesion to most concrete materials. For this particular purpose, Sikadur-31 CF did not need a primer, thus saving time as well as providing high-strength adhesion,
Exterior of new Unilever Plant in Durban
high initial and ultimate mechanical strength, and good chemical resistance. Sikadur-30 adhesive was applied to the cleaned CarboDur strip, which was then applied to the prepared substrate to form a thin layer. The CarboDur plate was applied to the concrete surface and a rubber roller was used to ensure the carbon fibre plates were pressed into the adhesive until the material was forced out on either side. To prepare the surface, the substrate was grit-blasted to ensure it was clean and free of laitance, grease, oils and coatings. Once
Sika Carbodur reinforces columns
M
a good, open surface was achieved, the substrate was repaired and levelled using
ajor cracks had appeared in the building’s concrete slab which was
reinforcement once bonded. Yet the task was met with a major design
Sikadur-31CF. The carbon fibre plates were then wiped clean with Colma Cleaner and
in a poor condition but could not be re-
challenge: the engineers had specified
poured. The project engineers, Sutherland
S812/120 carbon fibre plates but delivery
Associates, specified Sika CarboDur Plates
would take two weeks and the client could
was on site to supervise the preparation and
as the solution. The architects were Elphick
not afford the delay. This meant that the
application, the re-design went smoothly and
Proome Architects and the contractor
engineers would have to re-design, using
was completed on time. The applicator was
Sealcon Systems.
S512/80 carbon fibre plates available ex-
Sika-trained, so there were no last-minute cri-
The job at hand was to strengthen the
allowed to flash off. With the expertise of a local engineer who
stock. They had just two weeks to complete
ses. Despite the tight turnaround time, the
slab, to brace around the concrete pillars,
the work, starting during the first week of
job was successfully delivered, guaranteed
and to ensure the slab was suitably strong,
December 2010.
by Sika’s reliability.
as the flooring had to be fit for heavy
Sika supplied CarboDur S512 (x 520m),
machinery. Also, it needed to act as external
Sikadur-30 (x 40 6kg kits), Sikadur-31CF (8
Empowered
For further information on Sika products and systems, visit www.sika.co.za.
0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
79
Feature Focus: Cement & Concrete
CONCRETE
This all sounds very technical... are there
whilst the volunteers, including all the National
more practical or commercial aspects to the
Council, were totally committed to the Society,
Society’s activities?
they all had full-time careers in their own right
T
Fundamentally we are, and perceived to be,
and of course these will always take preference.
he Concrete Society of Southern Africa
a technical organisation, and a recent survey
On a more general topic, how do you see the future
(CSSA) recently appointed its first full-time
amongst our members confirmed this. We
of the construction industry at the moment?
Chief Executive Officer. FLOORS in Africa spoke to
should not be confused with the Cement &
That is a difficult one, and I am sure that there
John Sheath about his new responsibilities and
Concrete Institute (and its activities), which is a
are more qualified people to answer that in the
the Concrete Society in general:
marketing organisation set up to actively grow
industry. However, my personal feelings are that
Can you tell us a little more about the CSSA, its
the market for concrete through promotion,
the uncertainty around the lack of institutional
aims, objectives and activities?
training, consulting and advisory services.
capacity to deliver infrastructure in South Africa
The CSSA is registered as a non-profit, Public
I see this year you are holding the Fulton Awards.
has aggravated the very depressed situation for
Benefit Organisation which promotes excel-
Can you tell me a little more about these?
the construction sector.
Technical organisation
lence and innovation in the use of concrete. It
The prestigious Fulton Awards, which are held
Recent years have been very tough on the
provides a forum for networking and technol-
every second year, are part of our recognising
industry, notwithstanding the activity centred
ogy transfer between its members and local
and rewarding excellence in concrete – I like to
on the Soccer World Cup and Gautrain, and each
and international affiliates.
call them the “Oscars” of the concrete industry.
December we are led to believe that “next year
Our members comprise nearly 700 individu-
These awards, in six different categories, honour
will see some growth”.
als who are passionate about, or at least have a
excellence in concrete design and construction
But it is not all ‘doom and gloom’. The recent
great interest in, concrete, as well as more than
and have a long history of involvement in many
cement sales statistics published by the C&CI
30 companies which focus on the specification,
major projects completed in Southern Africa.We
showed a much healthier April and May, both
supply or use of concrete and see the benefits of
had 31 entries this year, which was very encour-
months showing higher sales per day than the
being associated with such a Society.
aging considering the current depressed state of
equivalent months of last year. As cement tends
So how do you actually promote excellence
the construction industry.
to be a barometer of construction activity, this
in concrete?
Can you explain the rationale behind the
is encouraging as it shows a slowing down of
In several ways, but mainly through the run-
Society’s appointing a full-time CEO?
negative growth.
ning of technical meetings, seminars and site
Certainly. For many years now the organisa-
visits, which we do at both national and regional
tion has been run through the tireless efforts of
levels. Each of our four regional branches has
volunteers, ably supported by an Administrator
its own calendar of events planned for the year.
and Assistant. The problem with this was that
So my message to all the prophets of doom is “be patient – we will bounce back”. For more information: 012 348 5305 / 012 348 1319
The new name in flooring Pharaoh Cement (Pty) Ltd Tel +27 (11) 864-4918 Fax +27 (11) 864-2123 Craig: +27 83 394 0128 E-mail sales@pharaohcement.co.za 80
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
intro Cost Effective Flooring When related to flooring, ‘cost-effective’ can mean
at the required level for its entire and prospective
all things to all men! Ostensibly it relates to value
lifespan, it becomes very expensive. For example,
for money, which means finding the right product,
throwing concrete down and calling it an indus-
system or flooring solution that does the job effi-
trial floor because it didn’t cost very much and
ciently at the lowest cost – but this must exclude
temporary labour was used is certainly not a cost-
‘buying cheap’ because, unless the floor performs
effective answer.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
81
Feature Focus: Cost Effec tive Flooring
COST EFFECTIVE
Flooring solution
When related to flooring, ‘cost-effective’ can mean all things to all men! Ostensibly it relates to value for money, which means finding the right product, system or flooring solution that does the job efficiently at the lowest cost – but this must exclude ‘buying cheap’ because, unless the floor performs at the required
SHUTTERSTOCK
level for its entire and prospective lifespan, it becomes very expensive.
82
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Cost Effec tive Flooring
F
or example, throwing concrete down and calling it an industrial floor because
it didn’t cost very much and temporary labour was used is certainly not a cost-effective answer. Before very long it will fail, particularly as the floor has not been designed to take whatever machinery is being used or, if forklifts and other equipment operate on it regularly, then you will be faced with the problem and added cost of ripping it up and laying a floor to the correct specification. Meanwhile, your workSHUTTERSTOCK
force is probably also standing idle while you get it right the second time around. Architects, developers and specifiers often have to stick to strict budgets, which isn’t always an easy task, but in most cases there are economic alternatives and affordable
tion by the architect or designer changed so
flooring solutions that can provide the dura-
often due to the lack of communication or
table and competent manufacturers, suppli-
bility, look and quality installations they need.
misunderstanding about lead and manufac-
ers and contractors, and to get the best out
turing times, resulting in another product that
of any floor – within budget – it pays to talk
a wide array of issues: What effect does a ‘fast
is readily available being used. This is usually
to these experts at the design stage of any
track’ project have on the flooring contrac-
not the same technical specification, and
project to ensure the best specifications are
tors? How do time constraints and installation
often it is an inferior product or even a more
employed.
short cuts, late specification changes to meet
expensive product in some cases.”
Cost-effective flooring can be influenced by
South Africa is blessed with honest, repu-
But in terms of the wearability and long
“Also, the flooring is usually the first to be
service life of the floor, the specification and
affect the overall final cost of the floor and its
cut or revised for a cheaper alternative if the
installation are only half of the story, because
durability potential?
money is running out. This is the worst thing
unless a proper maintenance programme is
to do on any project. The flooring should
devised and carried out, the floor will soon
pany in design and project management to
be the last item to change in the budget,
look shabby and lose some of its performance
whom acknowledgement and thanks are given
because it forms an integral part of the
characteristics.
(Mitch Whayman, M Squared Projects & Design).
design, the wear and tear and the general
These are his views:
maintenance of the building.”
what’s left of the budget, and other aspects
FLOORS in Africa spoke to a prominent com-
Take notice of what the manufacturer or supplier advises to keep the floor in good
“Time constraints on projects do affect the
“Quite often an inferior product is selected
condition and ensure its longevity. Also, most
cost effectiveness, given that they may entail
due to budget constraints, and the wrong tile
floors are averse to dirt, grit and water being
extra labour costs or even flooring specifica-
or another (unsuitable) floorcovering selected,
brought in on visitors’ feet, so the lifespan of
tion changes. For example, if the flooring is
which in the long run ends up being more
any floor can be considerably enhanced if
not ordered in time from the contractor –
expensive, because now the flooring will need
walk-off mats are employed.
perhaps there is an import/manufacture time
to be replaced sooner than expected.”
for the specified product – this can incur
“It also becomes much more complicated
Likewise, the ubiquitous flattened cardboard box laid at the entrance is no protec-
costs of projects delays, late penalties, time
and inconvenient to change the flooring,
tion at all. Properly specified dirt-trap mats
and cost of sourcing new or similar product
whereas there are so many other aspects of
should be used, designed in relation to the
that may be more expensive than the origi-
the building that could be changed relative-
amount and type of foot traffic the building
nal product specified.”
ly more easily to accommodate the budget
will experience.
“The specifier (be it the designer, architect
shortage. One only has to live through one
In most cases the heavy-duty outdoor mat
or client) should always be made aware of
renovation of lifting and re-tiling a floor to
is supported with another inside the door,
any import or manufacturing times and thus
know that the right floorcovering, correctly
thus ensuring that the floor that follows gets
pass on this information to the contractor or
specified and installed, is the only cost-
the best possible chance of retaining its good
the company that would be placing the order.
effective answer.”
looks and wear capability.
This is not always the case though and over
This final comment by Mitch Whayman
the years I have learnt the hard way. It is also
is worth highlighting because when one
flooring is all things to all men, but so is the
a good idea for the supplier to follow up and
thinks of ‘cost effective’ flooring the mind
bitter experience of a floor that rapidly loses
“remind” all concerned about the relevant
almost always turns to cheaper specifica-
its aesthetic appeal or needs replacing too
orders and lead times.”
tions, which may do the job initially but will
soon.
“Regarding specification changes, on many occasions I have seen the original specifica-
hardly be cost effective if the floor fails or needs premature replacement.
As we said in the beginning, cost effective
Get it right first time – that’s the cost effective answer!
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
83
Feature Focus: Cost Effec tive Flooring
ENVIRONMENTAL FLOORS
At no extra cost!
Everybody wants to ‘go green’ but they aren’t sure what the overall cost implications are. Undoubtedly there will be some manufacturers that will charge a premium for their green products, simply because there is a demand for them, in addition to which they may consider that the “extra” recycling process involved (instead of using virgin raw materials) adds actual manufacturing step costs.
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F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Cost Effec tive Flooring
This enables customers to purchase greencertified products without any cost premium, and encourages them to do the right thing for the environment, in addition to which the product is quality assured. As a good corporate citizen Belgotex Floorcoverings certainly has no intention of making money out of being environmentally responsible. This has always been their philosophy and they feel the longevity of the product should not compromise the longevity/sustainability of the planet. To put this into perspective Kevin Walsh, chief operations officer of Belgotex Floorcoverings, says, “As the largest carpet manufacturing plant on the African continent, Belgotex Floorcoverings recognises the impact of our activities, products and services on the environment and we’ve put several initiatives in place to manage any negative impacts.” As well as being a member of the Green Building Council of South Africa, the company is fully compliant to the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System and, in addition to complying with all applicable legislation, the company’s Environmental Policy outlines its efforts to minimise pollution and seek out an ecologically sustainable waste management system for their Pietermaritzburg-based 100 000m² factory. “To most consumers, environmental awareness equals recycled or natural products. The reality is much more farther - reaching” comments Walsh.
his is exacerbated by the growing need
T
is exemplified by the fact that all the Belgotex
resource management and pollution preven-
for project designers to comply with
ranges are green because it’s the production
tion, including issues from water consump-
green star ratings by specifying green or
processes, not the raw materials, that make
tion and energy efficiency, to chemical waste
recycled products to meet the client’s require-
them green.
disposal and boiler emissions.”
ments, so it is worth investigating if these products are in fact more expensive.
“Our Environmental Policy addresses
Belgotex Carpets’ hi-tech SDX ranges are
“Employee education and training about
produced through a waterless extrusion
environmental issues further attempts to
process that gives them their stain-proof,
entrench a “green” philosophy throughout the
because a floorcovering is made from natural
colourfast, UV- and bleach-resistant character-
company,” adds Walsh.
fibres such as wool, bamboo or jute that it
istics. The result? A carpet that is not only easy
must be eco-friendly. Often the processes
to clean and won’t be damaged by bugs or
floorcovering from Belgotex Floorcoverings,
needed to make these items ready for sale,
harsh sunlight, but uses fewer raw materials
you can be sure that it has been produced by
and keep them looking good, use more pre-
and precious resources in the first place.
a responsible pro-active manufacturer.
Many shoppers mistakenly assume that
cious resources such as water and energy than synthetic materials!
For example, when you buy a Belgotex
So, rest assured; when you choose a
For further information: 033 897 7500 /
BerberPoint Eco carpet – which is a recycled
021 763 6900 / 011 788 3450 / 031 313 9600 / www.belgotexfloorcoverings.com
Belgotex Floorcoverings is a prime example
product – you do not have to pay a higher
of a company that is committed to producing
fee to comply with green standards. In fact,
affordable green ranges using eco-friendly
BerberPoint Eco is exactly the same specifica-
and sustainable manufacturing practices and
tion as BerberPoint 920 but is manufactured
is dedicated to contribute to being socially
with recycled content and is available at the
responsible to the community it serves. This
same price point.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
85
Specialist transport EXCELLENT TRACK RECORD
EFFICIENT AND TIME
“The industry requires a specialised and organised infrastructure - and to cover all points nationally for door-to-door deliveries takes some doing. Over the years Transiton has built up this service as an asset to our industry.” - Luci Nouwens ( Nouwens Carpets) “Their service to us is fantastic, and their reliability is something you can really count on.” - George Prinsloo (Fotakis Brothers)
for the flooring industry -CONSCIOUS
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION DRIVEN
“This service is exceptional and to my knowledge is not matched internationally.” - Frank Moffat ( Belgotex Floorcaverings) “...nothing is too much trouble for them.” - Boet van Schalkwyk (Layrite) “...they are dedicated to moving only our industry’s products. They know the routes, the drop points and there is less chance of errors because of this.” - Simon Whittaker (Crossley Carpets SA)
TRANSPORT
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
NEW
Superb showroom
Bedson Timbers, one of South Africa’s largest and most respected manufacturers and suppliers of quality hardwood floors, recently opened a new showroom in Silverton, Pretoria, on the corner of Axle and Battery Streets in the Willows Business Park, and FLOORS was invited to witness the grand occasion.
I
n his welcoming address, Oscar Bupo, CEO of the Bedson Business Group, said,
“It is with great pride that we have been able to commission and officially unveil this new retail facility. It is not only another step forward in the continued path of growth and excellence of the company, but it also symbolises the progress we are making in improving retail client services.” “We are the market leaders in South Africa which can be substantiated by the fact that we are the only manufacturer of solid wood
Oscar Bupo, and daughter Antonieta Bupo, officiating the unveling of the Showroom
A view of the distinctive collection of exotic hardwood flooring and decking
88
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
flooring in South Africa; our flooring material is from sustainable resources; we produce flooring and decking in South America, and
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
in South Africa.” “We have just completed an expansion phase with another 2 200m² of prime warehousing facilities in Hammarsdale, KwaZuluNatal, and are planning to develop our franchise, including more retail shops during 2012.,” he said. “Last, but not least, I am very proud to say that Bedson Timbers owns 2 000 ha of prime land with forests that can supply the company with over 300 years of sustainable resources of timber products.” “The opening of the showroom is indeed a day for celebration and the start of much more to come from the Bedson Business Group,” Bupo concluded. Bedson Timbers imports and stocks over 30 timber species from all continents, with the main species being of American, Asian and African origin, and the company states that hardwood is sustainable and more commer-
Staff on hand at the event
cially available now than ever before, and is far from being a depleting resource. The company maintains that more wood is added in new growth each year than is harvested on the 486 million acres of forestland in the United States that is classified as commercial. 86% more wood is added annually for hardwood species in net growth than is removed through harvesting. Bedson also pays considerable attention to research and development, and the latest results of these efforts have been the addition of wide planks to the company’s sales programme and the introduction of a Quarter Sawn technique that allows for better dimensional stability of the floor. As a Group that has such an affinity with hardwood, and a concern for the environ-
the company says that hardwood is sustainable and more commercially available now than ever before
ment, together with a considerable investment in technology and expertise, Bedson Timbers are not just amongst the foremost experts in the industry, they are also very pleasant people to deal with. For more information: Head Office, Pretoria, Gauteng 012 803 4376 / Branch, Hammarsdale, KZN 031 736 1022/ www.bedsonflooring.co.za
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
TELEPHONE TECHNIQUE Belgotex Floorcoverings is committed to creating new opportunities for carpet fitters and salespeople, by presenting a programme of wideranging training workshops aimed at upgrading their professional skills and motivation. Established in 2002 (originally known as the Carpet Pro Academy), the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy has provided invaluable skills upliftment to hundreds of carpet professionals countrywide. This is the third in a series of articles by the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy designed to assist those in the retail carpet trade to adopt better selling techniques. REMEMBER, CUSTOMERS DON’T BUY PRODUCT, THEY BUY PEOPLE!!
The Basics of Selling - No. 3 tremendous difference if this is done in a professional manner. For example, the sequence in which you announce the company is of paramount importance. If the customer is calling directly to your line, the correct answering response is, “Good morning/afternoon, (company name), this is (your first name, last name). How may I help you?” This gives the caller all he or she wants to know, and puts the call on a more personal basis, which means the caller will probably respond with his or her name without being asked. From then on, listen carefully to what the caller is saying, and make sure you understand. If the customer asks for a team member who is available, respond, “Thank you so much for calling. I’ll put you straight through. Could you hold for a moment, please?” In other words, you are ensuring that the caller is dealt with in the required manner, without your getting involved in the details which they will have to repeat later. If the caller has said s/he has a complaint or a problem, let the team member know before you transfer the call. If the customer asks for a team member who is not available, tell him so, then ask if you or someone else can help; if not, take a mes-
I
Using the telephone effectively
there call is handled; the perception is “if the person on the other side of the line is unprofessional, what will the rest of the company be
n most cases, the first contact a client or
like? If the company cannot take care of the
potential customer has with your company
front line person’s performance, how will they
is through a telephone call, yet most people
take care of me as a prospective customer?”
underestimate the power of the telephone.
From the telephonist and right through to
Properly used, it can be an enormously
the sales team, how calls are handled reflects
powerful tool. Badly used, it can lose custom-
on the whole company. When a call comes
ers faster than any other means. The caller’s
in, how it is handled dictates how consumers
experience from that initial contact will largely
view the company, and if that approach is
determine the result – making or losing the
poor, they think the organisation is inefficient.
sale, resolving a complaint and keeping a
This means that the experience of the cus-
client or customer, or losing that client or
tomer or client should be a critical marketing
customer. To coin an old adage: “There is
concern. Properly training your team mem-
no second chance for making a good first
bers, especially your receptionist or telephone
impression!”
operator, is critically important.
People often judge the overall professionalism and competence of a company by how
Answering the telephone would seem to be a basic and simple function, but it makes a
sage and tell him who will phone back, and an estimate of when. And make sure it happens within the time you promised. Imagine a prospective customer phoning in and the specialist sales person is not available, but the person answering the phone have the knowledge and expertise to assist the caller with his/her query, the caller perceive the company to be ultra professional and competent. Remember, you have made the promise that someone will call back, so don’t underdeliver – failure to do so will reflect badly on the company, and the caller will probably not bother to call again as a result. Professionalism is the key. Everyone that speaks to callers must know the company, the function of his or her colleagues, the products, what products or systems the company sells, who handles them, and who they should
Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 033 897 7500 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za 90
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
speak to in terms of their queries. The all important telephone call is an infor-
really want, and how to meet their needs. The customer is telling you one thing, and
first good impression. All the customer have to judge you by is your telephone
mation-gathering and relationship-building
you are going in a different direction. It’s a
manner combined with product knowl-
exercise. If you can connect with the person
whole communication thing – hearing but
edge.
during the telephone conversation you are on
not listening. But, don’t oversell with product
Remember the importance of grooming,
a winning streak already!
knowledge… just tell them what they want or
posture and gestures.
need to know to solve their problems or meet
Vary your pitch, pace and power of
their needs.
your voice.
It has been established that 80% of business in the retail trade comes initially through a telephone call, and the caller needs the per-
Remember, people today have access to
sonal touch… People deal with people and
information systems such as the Internet, so
know you are listening and they have
buy from people, so these relationships are
there is a chance that before the client talks to
your full attention.
extremely important, bearing in mind that all
you he has already explored everything there
Don’t chew, talk out your nose or
the caller has is your voice and what s/he gets
is on the Internet and has a certain amount
mumble.
from you.
of technical knowledge already. Maybe s/he
Speak clearly and into the mouth piece.
Make listening noises, so customers
You may be busy, overworked, under pres-
has already bounced some questions off your
Always be well prepared before answer-
sure, or just generally having a bad day, but
competitors, so make sure you are up to date
ing the phone, do not scratch and look
the person you are speaking to needs to
with your company and products.
for a pen and paper etc.
feel that s/he is so important to you and is
Telephone technique is underestimated.
Don’t allow the phone to ring more than
getting your full attention. Listen, focus, and
It is one of the most powerful tools in the
three times
don’t let your mind wander while listening
retail business in making connection with
Use peoples’ names. Titles are always safe
to your caller.
the clients; any call is an opportunity to sell,
– avoid being too familiar and be polite
and unless potential customers are handled
at all times.
the handling of the call is professional and
professionally, they will think the person that
Make sure who the caller must speak to
combined with a certain amount of product
took their call is pathetic, and go elsewhere.
before transferring the call.
knowledge, you are ahead of the game with
Finally, make sure complaints are handled
your competitors. But it is also worth remem-
competently and quickly, no matter how diffi-
ing to.
bering that putting the call through to an
cult the problem or the client is because poor
Don’t give people the unguided tour of
unanswered extension is a disaster.
complaint handling can kill the client forever.
every extension in the building.
People never come back again.
Beware of call clipping – putting the call
From a psychological point of view, if
If the telephone operator complains that
Tell the caller who they will be speak-
people are awkward or do not understand
Even if it is not a fault of your product, but
what they are being told – the fault most
rather someone else’s poor workmanship or
their conversation.
likely lies with lack of training or the approach
advice, make sure that the client’s problems
Don’t leave people on hold for too long.
of the operator. Make sure that the way the
are solved before you leave it to someone
Offer to call back and take messages.
operator communicates the information is
else, because then the client will remember
Keep promises.
correct and up to date.
you for your helpfulness and expertise. Remember you only have ONE chance to
It’s always the other person! Turn it round! And give telephone operators feedback on
through before the caller has completed
Key Points to effective telephone technique:
capture the caller for any possible business,
how well they are doing. They must have
Are you a good listener?
there are no second chances – PEOPLE BUY
focus and dedication – it’s not just a job – and
Do you have empathy?
PEOPLE!!
they should make sure the information taken
Are you patient?
down is detailed and correct.
Do you know your company systems
The information in this article has been extracted from the Belgotex Floorcoverings Technical Sales programme produced by Belgotex Floorcoverings.
By taking calls properly, the operators can
and products?
minimise the sales time taken with the client
Do you love your job? This will partly
by asking open-ended questions (example,
determine how you answer the phone.
“Do you own carpeting? What do you like
Are you enthusiastic? A combination of
about it and what don’t you like about it?”),
loving your job, product knowledge and
and for this they must have excellent prod-
confidence will lead to enthusiasm.
uct knowledge.
Do you get regular compliments on the
Manufacturers make hundreds of different
phone?
ranges, but most salespersons will concen-
Do you smile when you answer the
trate on just a few ranges that they are com-
phone? This comes from within.
fortable with and what they personally like
Do you keep promises?
– rather than finding out what the customers
Remember you get 1 chance to make a
Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 011 345 2944 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • Fax: 011 345 2988 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za
Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 033 897 7500 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
SEPT CONFERENCE
SA represented at paving workshop as the CMA. It stages global conferences triennially and its steering committee meets every 18 months to plan the conferences and other activities. Laing says that one of the points which emerged from this year’s conference is that the demand for larger paving blocks, some of them up to a square metre, is on the increase. “They are being used for aesthetic purposes for non-trafficked areas such as malls, squares, pavements and paths. For example, many of the malls in Dresden, which is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities, have been paved with concrete flagstones.”
CMA director Hamish Laing (sixth from right) and local paving consultant John Cairns (kneeling right), seen here during the SEPT (Small Element Paving Technology) workshop which was held in Dresden, Germany, from 4 to 6 May.
Commenting further, Laing said another recent CBP development is the incorporation of granulated rubber in paving blocks as sound-dampening material.
The Concrete Manufacturers Association
of permeable paving and how the CMA was
(CMA) sent two representatives to this year’s
promoting CBP installation as a road surface
countries such as Germany, to the extent
SEPT (Small Element Paving Technology)
for low-trafficked urban roads, especially
that noise-dampening technology is also
Association planning workshop which was
with the upgrading of existing township
being used in masonry construction.”
held in Dresden, Germany, from 4 to 6 May.
roads. He also covered CMA-sponsored
CMA director Hamish Laing and former CMA director and paving consultant John Cairns attended the event, and Hamish Laing
“Noise pollution is taken very seriously in
The next SEPT Conference and Exhibition
research into the discolouration of certain
will be held in 2012 in Shanghai from 25 to
types of concrete paving blocks.
27 November, to coincide with China’s 2012
SEPT is an international association which
construction and building material machin-
gave a detailed account of concrete block
promotes the development of and research
ery exhibition, Bauma. The next SEPT work-
paving (CBP) trends in South Africa.
into CBP. Its members comprise academics
shop will be held in Cape Town in 2014 and
and representatives from associations such
the 2015 conference will be held in Dresden.
In his address, Laing covered the progress
CONSUMER LEGISLATION The Consumer Protection Act is now fully
applicators – could now face prosecution for
operational, and the flooring industry needs
breaches of the Consumer Protection Act.
SAPMA members should also ensure that
to heed this legislation and its implications.
“For example, if untrained retailing staff
their companies’ terms and conditions are
A perfect example of what effect it can have
issues wrong advice and directives to a con-
pertinent to their businesses – and that
on the industry is encapsulated in the recent
sumer – who consequently incurs losses to his
they comply with the Consumer Protection
announcement to its members by the SA
or her property – the blame could snowball
Act, he added.
Paint Manufacturing Association.
right through the supply chain. It is therefore
Deryck Spence, executive director of SAPMA,
end up at the mercy of retail sales staff.”
Although this is outside our industry, every-
vital for paint producers to put pressure on
one involved in flooring would do well to
has warned that all members of the paint
their stockists to ensure that retailing staff is
ensure that their staff, suppliers and clients
and coatings supply chain – including raw
properly trained. The reputation – and coffers
are fully aware of the risks that ignorance of
materials suppliers, producers, retailers and
– of producers and applicators could in future
the legislation could entail.
Transparent 92
Watch out!
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
TRANSPARENCY
Customers see through
For businesses that care about their future,
CERSAIE 2011 “sustainable trade fair”
transparency is a simple yet powerful man-
furnishing exhibition Cersaie to reduce the
agement technique that should form the
show’s environmental footprint. The three-year project Cersaie for
new operating maxim.
Sustainability has the key aims of reducing
Transparency is about being open, honest and accountable. It’s about responsibility.
energy requirements and the production of
People are listening to you and making
waste, making this 29th edition of the show
evaluations and decisions based upon
the first trade fair outside the environmen-
what you say, and as such, it’s important to
tal sector to focus strongly on sustainability. Cersaie 2012 will focus on water, electri-
take responsibility for the messaging you A three-year project has been launched by
cal energy and waste. The waste produced
Cersaie to reduce the environmental foot-
in the pre-exhibition setup phase will be
ent, we need to follow certain rules and
print of the international ceramic tile and
monitored this year, and then in 2012 a pro-
guidelines in order to keep us on track,” says
bathroom furnishing exhibition. Six specific
gramme will be introduced to encourage
marketing manager Doret Botha. “By staying
initiatives will be pursued immediately,
the separate collection of paper and plastic.
consistent when it comes to openness, com-
from waste reduction to optimisation of
munication and accountability, we make
energy, water and paper consumption, as
on electricity and water consumption. On
sure our clients will return time and again.”
well as agreements to promote sustainable
the basis of variables measured at this year’s
transport.
show, initiatives to reduce consumption will
put out there. “For Peter Bates Flooring to be transpar-
“Being transparent allows our prospective and existing clients to see what they will get, before they actually do. With Peter Bates
The ceramic sector has long been sensi-
Last but not least, the project will focus
be introduced in 2012. Cersaie 2011 will be held in the Bologna
tive to environmental issues and this is
Flooring having been in business since 1973,
reflected in the latest project pursued by
exhibition centre from 20 to 24 September.
clients know beforehand what they will get.
international ceramic tile and bathroom
For full information visit www.cersaie.it.
By being transparent, our clients are more knowledgeable about us and our business which establishes a sense of upfront trust. Others value our honesty and are drawn to us in the process,” she says. The rules of transparency management are simple: Don’t fake it – talk about what you really know; have an opinion, but remain open-minded; be truthful; be timely and responsive; and think community. Peter Bates Flooring encompasses all these rules, with all staff focused on the business because they are aware of key actions the business has to take and what level of performance is required, together with each staff member having individual accountability for specific actions aligned to the business that are also transparent for all to see. Making these actions transparent to all staff, at both the business and individual levels, is an effective way of developing teamwork and making staff more sensitive to their role and performance. In effect, transparency is virtually a do-it-yourself mechanism that helps to control all business improvements and kills poor performance.
RECYCLING Carpet into carpet tiles European carpet firm Desso said it has become the first to develop eco-innovative materials and processes to recycle an entire carpet product back into carpet tiles. Desso said it has adopted Cradle to Cradle principles that will result in all its products ending their usable life by being either completely biodegraded or recycled. As part of this strategy, Desso said it has launched EcoBase, a carpet backing that is made from materials that can be entirely recycled back into new carpet backing. EcoBase has enabled Desso’s first entire carpet tile product to achieve Cradle to Cradle Silver Certification. Also, the company has developed Refinity, a mechanical process to separate yarn and other fibres from carpet backing so that both material streams can be re-used. EcoBase has also been awarded a TÜV certificate for its suitability for allergy sufferers.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
PETE SMITH Enjoying retirement! Known and appreciated as much for his sense of humour as his technical expertise in the carpet industry and his willingness to share his knowledge with others, Pete Smith has retired and rediscovered his first love – painting. Pete says, “Having qualified at a major UK Art College in painting and pottery I quickly realised a job would be my only salvation as I was no Van Gogh and didn’t want to miss a body part, so I became an industrial artist and entered the carpet industry which was then very specialised in product, with specific manufacturers making only Gripper Axminster or Spool Axminster or Wilton – and something new and strange called Tufted Carpet.” “To qualify as a competent, respected carpet
Pete Smith
designer one had no choice but to move to
– and both were responsible for many suc-
future. Good design is good business in all
the design studios of different companies and
cessful products and marketing strategies,
products no matter what industry.”
learn each specialised manufacturing process
and both are now fellow retirees!” he says.
pool and carry on with my first love – painting
processes. By the age of 25 I had gained expe-
by accountants who could never understand
(you can catch some of his work on Facebook:
rience with five different companies.”
the above principle, often refusing to bring
Peter David Smith) – and with that I leave the
new technology due to costs. Industry train-
third generation of Smiths in the carpet indus-
in the mid-70s, where he initially joined the
ing and interfacing with Technicons, so vital in
try (Tim and Anthony at Complete Flooring
Carpeting Manufacturing Co, which was taken
all aspects, also disappearing because of costs
in Johannesburg and Sally at Laurie Kaplan
over by Romatex. Starting with the Van Dyck
– they are long gone!
Flooring in KwaZulu-Natal).”
Pete and his family came to South Africa
Carpet brand, he worked within the group
For the last six years of his career Pete
Tim and Sally are running these very suc-
for Regina Carpets, Constantia Carpets, and
returned to Van Dyck Carpets, to re-establish
cessful flooring contracting businesses,
Flortime, leaving in 1991 to become a consul-
the brand, which he says was a rewarding
concentrating on upmarket projects such as
tant to various companies including Dunlop
adventure that was important, challenging
hotels, conference centres and ‘top end’ resi-
Flooring, and Karina Textiles in Botswana and
and successful. “Long may they continue!” he
dential – and it is an accolade to their perfor-
Zimbabwe.
comments.
mance and workmanship that well over 90%
Joining Belgotex Carpets, Pete helped to
“Over the years the industry has changed
of their business comes from referrals.
establish the new Nexus Carpet brand. “It was
dramatically on all levels – far fewer manu-
On his father, Tim says, “He has been an
only the second time in my career that I came
facturers, other floor finishes taking market
inspiration to his family and so many others
across someone who really understood the
share,” Pete says. “Through it all I am con-
in the carpet industry. With his extraordinary
value of design and colour that enhance the
vinced that more emphasis on training and
level of expertise, there are scores of people
sales potential of any product range, namely
a better appreciation of the value of good
that owe him a vote of thanks for his help.”
Daniel Dolpire – the first being Roger Graham
design would sustain the industry for the
DESIGN SHOW
Enjoy retirement, Pete!
Great success!
During May, and for the second year run-
Dome over two days it was certainly a day
tive show with everything from expert tips,
ning, Grand Designs Live South Africa – the
out to remember. Visitors got to enjoy
on-the-pulse ideas and never-before-seen
new home, décor, garden and design show
everything from interiors, build, kitchens,
concepts, to celebrities, experts in various
– was once again a huge success!
bathrooms, gardens, the latest technology,
fields and cutting-edge design. It is claimed to
shopping and delicious food, to celebrities,
be South Africa’s best and freshest design and
experts and top exhibitors.
home show, and the dates for the 2012 show
The show gave consumers inspiring ideas for every aspect of the home and with just over 27 500 people visiting the Coca-Cola
94
“For now – I put out the sunbeds, tend the
Many other companies were run efficiently
as there were few companies embracing all
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Grand Designs Live is an inspiring, interac-
will be announced shortly. Watch this space!
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
MARMOMACC 21 - 24 September 2011
On display will be marble, granite, stone and
agglomerates in all their forms; abrasives, diamond tools, and technologies for the recovery of architectural heritage; chemical products;
making the selection of the two candidate architects. The impressive number of exhibitors totalled 1 530 in 2010 – almost half were from outside Italy (from 56 different nations) – together with 56 024 professional visitors from 132 nations. The website www.marmomacc.it gives a visual rundown and further information. South African firms have continued to
and artistic and funerary work and design.
exhibit at the show and repeat their requests
The exhibition has evolved over its long
for stands because of the wide exposure the
history into a cultural event which has a
show offers. The Fair of Verona also invites
Marmomacc, the world’s largest and most
strong design element and runs parallel with
buyers to attend and interested parties can
important stone, marble, machinery and
a course for Continuing Education Designing
contact the Fair’s representatives in South
design exhibition, will hold the 46th edition of
with Natural Stone, which two South African
Africa: Babrius cc, Tel: 021 788 7069;
the show this year from 21 to 24 September in
architects have been invited to attend. The
Fax: 021 788 5616; or email Glenn Babb at
Verona, Italy.
South African Institute of Architects will be
babrius2@mweb.co.za.
WEBSITES Retail strategy
As a retailer, is it more important to invest
customers fewer and farther between, it’s
in an industry-specific software system or a
important to establish an avenue of commu-
quality website? Today, both are necessary to
nication for any legitimately interested party.
run a competitive business. Retail customers expect just as much from
Jay Flynn – vice-president of marketing and sales for DCS Partnership Group, which owns
a flooring site as they do from a fashion or
Creating Your Space – believes that websites
a housewares site. A strong, viable website
should offer as many opportunities as pos-
Companies that do not take notice of the IT
serves as the foundation of an online pres-
sible for potential customers to provide
revolution taking place around us may find
ence. Once that site is established, retailers
contact information, without making them
themselves in a reducing demand situation
should work to optimise the site to build traf-
feel pressured.
in the future, as an increasing number of
fic, possibly by augmenting a Google-type
companies not only put details and specifica-
search with pay-per-click advertising.
Once contact information is captured, Flynn’s system sends the data to the retailer’s
tions of the products and services they offer
Following that, retailers should consider
on the Internet, but also enable customers to
building a social media campaign to reach
the back end of the system, so that it can be
order direct online.
the growing segment of buyers that rely
accessed and updated. Retailers can use this
on social media for their information. Just
data for mailings, even selecting a particu-
where flooring retailers make extensive use
as the concept of lead generation is chang-
lar group of buyers – those that have been
of the Internet to increase their market share
ing in the bricks-and-mortar showroom, it’s
unresponsive for instance – for a special sale
and extend their area of operation.
changing in the online showroom. With
or promotion.
This is already big business in the USA
email and also stores the information on
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
95
AWARD B2B communication BAU, which is claimed to be the world’s leading trade fair for Architecture, Materials and Systems, has won Germany’s top award for business-to-business (B2B) communication – for the second time in a row. The GWA Profi Award, presented at the beginning of June, was won for the marketing campaign for BAU 2011. The GWA Profi Award, from the GWA (Gesamtverband Kommunikations-agenturen – German Association of Communications
SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE
Booklet
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
The Cement and Concrete Institute has recently published a 36-page booklet on Sustainable Concrete, which is a must for all those interested in the issue of sustainability – what it is, why it is important and the role that concrete can play in the provision of sustainable buildings and infrastructure. Four further documents are envisaged by the Institute to complement this publication, focusing specifically on concrete’s role in the provision of sustainable structures, sustainable architecture, sustainable roads and sustainable human settlements. Electronic copies of the booklet are available on the C&CI website http://www.cnci.org.za/Uploads/Sustainability%20web.pdf and printed copies can be ordered from: publications@cnci.org.za.
Agencies), is regarded as a kind of Oscar for the German-speaking advertising industry. This award for BAU is also in recognition of the work of the creative agency wob München. For BAU 2005 wob developed a brand-new advertising campaign featuring futuristic animal motifs. The campaign sought to reflect the BAU slogan The Future of Building, and underpin BAU’s claim
DOMOTEX
like sustainable, energy-efficient, environment-conscious and
Russia - Moscow
resource-efficient building.
Deutsche Messe AG has again extended its international portfolio of
to be an innovations engine and source of new ideas and impetus for the sector. It was an early expression of BAU’s focus on themes
The prize-winning campaign has played an important part in the recent success story of BAU, explained Dr Reinhard Pfeiffer, managing director of Messe München GmbH. “The innovative imagery
events; from 26 to 28 September 2012 the company will be holding its first trade fair for carpets and floorcoverings in Moscow. Dr. Andreas Gruchow, chairman of the Board of Deutsche Messe in
featuring motifs from the world of animals and plants is immediately
Hannover, explains: “Domotex Russia will create a showcase provid-
understood all over the world, without the need for many words.
ing manufacturers of high-quality floorcoverings with the opportu-
And these images have made a strong contribution to the expan-
nity to benefit from growing domestic demand in the Russian mar-
sion of BAU in recent years, particularly on the international front,
ketplace and the chance to consolidate their market presence. As
and to the fair’s success in establishing itself as a leading world fair.
the only specialist trade fair for carpets and floorcoverings in Russia
The unusual campaign awakens people’s curiosity and it raises their
and the surrounding regions, this offers exhibitors and visitors great
expectations of the event, which are then met in full at BAU.”
opportunities to make new contacts and generate business.”
Winning this award is the fourth accolade in succession for BAU and wob München. When the new motifs for the communication campaign for BAU 2005 were presented for the first time, they immediately attracted an Econ Award for the best exhibition communication from the publishers of the Econ Verlag and the Handelsblatt of Berlin. Two years after that, BAU won another Econ Award, this time for the campaign for BAU 2007. The 2007 campaign also made it for the first time into the final selection for the GWA Award. In 2009 BAU and wob then won the coveted GWA award, and now they are delighted to be collecting it again for the second time in succession. In the campaign for BAU 2013, the idea behind the multipleaward-winning series is being continued, again in close cooperation between the BAU team and wob. The motifs this time are orchids and mushrooms. From the end of June 2011, you can have a look at the two motifs on the BAU website at: www.bau-muenchen.com.
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F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
Do you need… A new brochure? Copywriting? A full service is available from design to final print from Jacquerie. We also undertake research and copywriting for press releases, articles or sales leaflets. Whatever your needs, contact us for full details and rates. Dave Soons, Jacquerie Marketing cc Tel: 012 807 7012; e-mail: dsoons@mweb.co.za Fax to e-mail: 086 601 7842
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
VIEWS
South Africa important!
The Polyflor SA team accompanied Andy Barratt (Export Director: Polyflor UK) on a visit to the Apartheids Museum in Johannesburg during his recent trip to South Africa. Seen here fltr are: Andy Barratt Sandy McLardy, Peter du Plessis and Denver Coleman. On a flying visit to South Africa, Andy Barratt, export director of UK-based Polyflor
Any downsides? It is widely accepted that there is a lack of
Andy Barratt, Export Director of Polyflor UK. tors. Our goal now is to ensure that specifiers are aware that vinyl flooring is amongst the best eco-friendly flooring materials available. How do you see the future, including Luxury Vinyl Tiles? Polyflor was one of the pioneers of LVT
Ltd, attended the annual conference of
skills in South Africa when it comes to floor
Polyflor South Africa. FLOORS caught up
laying. In Europe we are very big on training,
flooring in South Africa, and the fact that
with him during his visit.
and Polyflor SA is providing this same level
other manufacturers are appearing and
What was the main purpose of your visit?
of expert training here. As well as delivering
LVTs are experiencing strong growth is
I attended the Polyflor SA conference to
training, they have experienced profession-
good for the industry.
update the team on some of Polyflor’s inter-
als available to provide on-site supervision
national developments. Sales over the last
in order to overcome any problems during
can meet the requirements of many South
year have been excellent thanks to strong
installation.
African sectors, such as retail, higher end com-
growth, particularly in safety flooring,
How do you view the increasing demand for
mercial and residential, where a more attrac-
where we are producing a quality-assured,
‘green’ buildings?
tive, design-led finish is often needed.
low-maintenance range of products.
Very positively, because we can confidently
LVTs are popular in Europe and the USA and
Already they are taking market share from
How do you rate the South African market?
say that our products offer very real sustain-
other ceramic, wood and stone products
It is one of our best performing interna-
ability benefits. Great strides have been made
that do not have the resilience, noise reduc-
tional markets, so naturally it is very impor-
in reversing the old misconceptions about
tion, low maintenance, and cost efficiency
tant to us. Our homogeneous products are
PVC products. Our products are proven to
that LVTs provide.
doing particularly well, especially in the
match, and often exceed the environmental
Finally, we have a very positive outlook
healthcare sector. Healthcare is a sophisti-
ratings of non-vinyl products perceived to
regarding the future of Polyflor in South
cated market in South Africa with experi-
be more eco-friendly. Specifically within the
Africa. With our ongoing product and techni-
enced specifiers who have grown to appre-
vinyl market, Polyflor ranges feature some
cal development in the UK and a wonderful
ciate the benefits or our products and the
of the best environmental accreditation
team representing us here, I am confident
effective distribution system we operate.
available and are perfectly suited to the
that we will see growth in our traditional
‘green’ demands of the modern construc-
South African markets, as well as alternative
tion industry.
sectors where Polyflor SA are doing a great
We have enjoyed a good working relationship with Polyflor SA over the years and they form an important part of our longterm global strategy.
Low maintenance and the fact that vinyl is 100% recyclable are huge contributing fac-
job in establishing our vinyl flooring as a bestvalue option.
F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
RESOURCE Local décor & design industry.
SA Décor & Design pride themselves on their reputation for excellence, one that they have steadily built upon over the past 15 years. They are without a doubt an eminent resource in the local décor and design industry. As the definitive sourcing guide, The Buyers’ Guide provides instant access to a plethora of design information and literally thousands of carefully vetted and accurately listed suppliers and service providers in every décor and design trade category available. From furniture, lighting, accessories, window treatments and flooring through to appliances and the latest automation and eco-conscious products for the home or office – conveniently bound together in this one indispensable volume. In all, over 3500 contacts appear in this bumper issue – excellent and reputable providers of every element that might possibly be considered when designing or decorating a home, an office environment, a garden or practically any environment where quality is essential. Be inspired by the latest standout market offerings with the comprehensive Style Spy features giving readers a bird’s eye view of the latest and hottest products – in gorgeous colour and helpful context. Also check out the comprehensive calendar of local and international exhibitions, in addition to listings of training colleges and professional institutes, trends from some of South Africa’s leading editors, and so much more. Included in the 2012 Edition is a fantastic competition, in conjunction with Air France and Maison & Objet, with a chance to win a trip to Paris, France. The prize worth R60 000 includes airfares, accommodation, and entry to the Maison & Objet show in September 2012. Get your copy of the Guide now for your chance to enter this amazing competition. Check out their website for details on this and other great competitions on offer. Take a chance and win a bedding package from Sealy or flooring from Belgotex. Visit the website www.sadecor.co.za for contacts and a wealth of information at your fingertips. Also, follow SA Décor & Design – The Buyers’ Guide on Facebook, for regular updates on what’s ‘hot and happening’ in the world of décor and design. Get your copy of the Guide from leading bookstores and décor outlets, as well as direct from the publisher. For more information visit www.sadecor.co.za or contact 021 465 5720.
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
MOVEMENTS Flooring manager Based in East
2011 - LOCAL
London, Peter
16 -18 AUGUST:
Jones has been
MTN expo center, Nasrec, Johannesburg
www.expocentre.co.za
appointed as National Flooring Manager for a.b.e.
6-8 SEPTEMBER:
The Star Interbuild Africa
Facilities Show Africa
Construction
Gallagher Convention Center, JHB
Chemicals.
www.facilitiesshowafrica.com
Peter joined Murray & Roberts (after leaving Woodridge College in Port Elizabeth in 1983), working his way up from estimating/pricing contracts to running projects in East London. He then went into contracting on his
Peter Jones
EVENTS TO DIARISE:
own before join-
2011- INTERNATIONAL 12 -14 SEPTEMBER: Domotex Middle East
Dubai International Convention &
Exhibition Centre, Middle East, Dubai
20 -24 SEPTEMBER: CERSAIE, Bologna, Italy
www.cersaie.it/en/index.php
21 – 24 SEPTEMBER: MARMOMACC, Verona, Italy
www.marmomacc.it
2012 - INTERNATIONAL 11 – 14 JANUARY:
Heimtextil
Messe Frankfurt, Germany
and since then, in his own words, he has “been passionate about
www. heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com
flooring”. Starting as a representative, he soon became Sales then
14 -17 JANUARY:
ing a.b.e. in 1995,
Branch & Regional Manager, and now holds the position of National Flooring Manager. In between he also gained some export experience with a five-year stint in the export department where he looked after West Coast Africa (mostly Angola, Ghana and Nigeria).
Domotex Hanover
Hannover, Germany
www.domotex.de/home
24-26 JANUARY:
Surfaces
Las Vegas, Nevada
that stands out was a big revamp for Coca-Cola using our abescreed
www.surfaces.com
to provide a 6-8mm epoxy screed, where Indufloor was our approved
7 -10 FEBRUARY:
“In Angola I was involved in a number of flooring projects but one
applicator,” he says. “a.b.e. is in an exciting position at the moment having recently been acquired by Chryso Southern Africa. This places us in an extremely strong position in the market,” he says. “Investment in plant, infrastructure, new technology and technical and customer support has already begun and, with our extensive ‘footprint’, new technologies and ongoing research and development programmes, we are in a strong position to add value to our customers. Our sales are up and with our new contacts (through Chryso) and new management systems we have never been in a better position to service the market.” “There are a number of really big flooring projects we are working on at the moment, especially with our abescreed SLC P as a fast-setting, cementitious underlay for vinyl and laminate flooring or carpets, and it can also be used where damp and time are a problem.” “We now have two new products to choose from for a vapour barrier: abecote GCP (green concrete primer); and abeflo ECC (epoxy
Cevisama
Valencia, Spain
www.ceramicindustry.com
13 – 14 FEBRUARY: Qualicer, Castellon, Spain
www.qualicer.org MARCH: March Expo Revestir, Sao Paolo, Brazil www.exporevestir.com.br
9 -12 MAY: Piedra Stone Fair
Spain, Madrid
www.eventseye.com
MARCH: March Domotex Asia/CHINAFLOOR
Shanghai New International Expo Centre
www.domotexasiachinafloor.com
cement compound), our self-levelling vapour barrier,” he concludes
F LO O R S J u n e J u l y 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
FLOORING questions & answers
?
What is the Janka hardness test for wood floors? The Janka hardness rating is the standard measurement for determining how well hardwood flooring will withstand wearing and dents. The test is conducted by measuring the force needed to lodge a 0.444-inch steel ball in the wood species to a depth of half the ball’s diameter. The higher the rating, the harder the species of wood. The Janka hardness rating is also useful when assessing how easy or difficult it is to hammer a nail into the hardwood or cut it with a saw. If I am purchasing a Persian rug, how can I tell if it is genuine? Look at the rug. If the sides and fringes are straight – it has almost certainly been made on a machine, because it is impossible to get a straight edge when weaving by hand. The rug should also feel smooth in one direction and rough in the other when you run your hand over it. Also, if you bend the rug in a straight line and look at the base, you should be able to see the knots at the base if it is handmade. To be absolutely sure – don’t buy cheap, and get it from a reputable Persian carpet importer dealer. Some of the blocks of my concrete paving are lifting. What can be done? This is normally caused either by tree roots spreading under the paving and causing the blocks to lift, or incorrect water drainage which can have the same effect. Or maybe the wrong grade of bedding sand has been used which prevents the blocks from being properly laid and compacted. If the original installer is still around, call him back. If not, it would still be advisable to get a professional paving company to fix the problem. Having bought an expensive carpet, I am amazed to find that there seems to be a colour change in various parts of the carpet. How can this be? This is what is known as pile reversal or shading. The same area may appear light when viewed from one direction, and dark from another. This is caused by light being reflected in different ways as the pile fibres are bent in various directions. This is not a product defect, but rather a characteristic of a plush carpet. How can I get candlewax out of my carpet? Unlike most other spillages, candlewax must be left to cool and harden. The treatment for its removal is then the same as for chewing gum that is stuck to the carpet: freeze the wax with ice cubes in a plastic bag; when the wax becomes brittle, break it up with a blunt object, then vacuum up the bits; apply a solvent (drycleaning fluid or trichlorethylene); soak with clean water and blot it up. If it doesn’t all come out – try again until it does!
100 F L O O R S J u n e J u l y 2 0 1 1
FLOORS, ENCAPSULATED HEALING PROPERTIES Are there healing properties present in seamless stone flooring? This question is answered by Jeremy Stewart, owner of Quartz Carpet SA.* Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth’s crust. Quartz as a rock/stone is known as the “master healer” which amplifies energy. Quartz is said to revitalise and bring the body into balance. It is one of the most beautiful and perhaps the oldest type of floorcovering. It was the only known type of flooring in medieval times. If you believe in the properties of quartz it is said to focus energy, boost your memory and harness the natural abilities you possess, through the crystal’s interaction with your biomagnetic field. On the most basic spiritual level, Quartz stone is known to have benefits for absorbing an excess of negative ions in electronically charged environments. Quartz is perceived as a conductor and storage unit for energy. Negative vibrational energy is commonly carried away from the body while the quartz harnesses positive vibrational energy and channels it to the body’s energy centre. A seamless stone quartz floor contains hundreds of thousands of naturally tumbled quartz stones held together in a strong matrix. Too often the spiritual qualities of these semi-precious gemstones are overlooked when, in fact, quartz is one of the most powerful minerals available. Combined, the healing properties and the soft underfoot sensation from the stones produce a very calming effect on the soul. There are many other reasons for the popularity of quartz including its completely natural patterns and colours. The exquisite rich and expansive finish of stone is virtually unmatched by any other flooring types. Stone is very hygienic because it is smooth and non-porous, and it is moisture- and bacteria-resistant. Stone is very easy to clean – simply wipe with a damp cloth or use a wet-anddry vacuum cleaner. Most stone is scratch- and strainresistant, so healing is only one benefit if you decide on a quartz stone floor. *The views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views or opinions of FLOORS in Africa.
Jeremy Stewart Flooring specialist and owner of Quartz Carpet, SA.