Flooring Feb/March 2021 by Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd

February / March 2021

“Helping you make better choices for the environment”

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Contents

vol 39 no 1

Product Update

Editor’s Note

Introducing the FlexLok tab system by GH Commercial

Training 20

The FCIA is proud to announce it has established the first industry specific RTO for the flooring sector

Company Profile 22

BBS – Innovators in installation products

Insurance Matters 24

Trade credit insurance – how can it help you get a better night’s sleep?

Technical Bulletin 26

Dementia approved flooring

Feature

Welcome to the February / March issue of Flooring Magazine. Inside this issue you will find our annual Adhesives Guide lift-out, which includes the Floor Covering Institute of Australia's (FCIA) adhesives recommendations for best practice when installing floor coverings on a variety of substrates. This month’s issue sees the launch of a new section where we highlight a company in our industry. For this edition, Philip Ashley talks to Will Bateman from BBS Flooring Products about the need to be innovative to stay ahead of the competition in a price driven environment. Please feel free to contact me directly regarding any news or product information that you would like us to publish by email at – michelle.cammiade@elitepublishing. com.au Don’t forget to join our online community and visit us on Facebook and Instagram.

Adhesives Guide

Until next time, enjoy your read.

Spotlight On

Michelle Cammiade

Andersens – shaping the future of the franchise network

Editor

Safety 46

CleanSpace – respiratory protective equipment

Flooring Magazine is now on: @flooringmagazineaustralia

Front Cover

@flooringmagazine

RLA Polymers www.rlapolymers.com.au

@flooringmagazine

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Product Update

FlexLok – For fast, flexible and no fuss flooring installation Introducing the FlexLok tab system, an innovative new installation solution from GH Commercial. Faster to install and cleaner than traditional wet spread adhesives, odourless FlexLok is fume-free, non-toxic, and delivers all the flexibility of a floating modular floor. The high-performance dry installation system, produced to lower damaging VOC’s, can be used on any substrate, including wood and concrete, without compromising the integrity of your flooring surface. With reduced downtime, FlexLok is installed with maximum efficiency, ensuring tight timeframes are met. FlexLok has been designed to avoid the use of wet adhesives when installing carpet tiles, reducing the

amount of mess and clean up required. Installation and removal is made even easier with no damage to subfloors, which can be especially important when dealing with heritage buildings or short lease tenancies. FlexLok is compatible with all standard carpet tile and plank products in the GH Commercial portfolio. As simple to install as it is to remove, FlexLok ensures replacing damaged carpet tiles or updating your interior has never been easier, while a host of tab placement options allow for creative and unique interior design effects.

a Health Product Declaration verifying the GH Commercial commitment to cleaner air and environmentally friendly technologies. For full information regarding the installation of the FlexLok tab system, please refer to the GH Commercial Carpet Tile/ Plank Installation instructions Contact your local representative to order a box for your next project.

Meeting exacting sustainability metrics, Mohawk Group’s FlexLok is Declare Red List Free and CRI Green Label Plus certified, with

Let’s Play – Omnisports Vinyl Flooring Tarkett’s Omnisports vinyl range is engineered for sports performance and safety. As a FIBA Research partner, Tarkett have developed the Omnisports range with a focus on player safety so you can feel secure in selecting a quality product with Tarkett Omnisports. Specifically designed for demanding school environments, the Omnisports range offers safety and versatility in multi-purpose spaces.

When running, turning and stopping on a sports surface the correct level of friction can help to limit slips where there is too low friction, or trips where there is too much. Shock absorption is exactly what it sounds like, allowing individuals to safely move around on a surface whilst reducing impact strain on their body. Both of these performance aspects are critical to reducing the number of injuries sustained on a sports floor.

When selecting a floor for a school sports hall it is important to consider the primary function of sports performance and safety first. Whether a sports floor caters to professional athletes or young kids, the same principles apply where the surface needs to be engineered to the correct level of friction and shock absorption for sports performance.

When it comes to selecting a sports floor for a school there are a number of other factors that come into play. Many school sports halls double as space for exams, assemblies, parent and teacher nights and election booths. This means that the floor needs to be able to meet the performance and durability needs of different sports as well as withstand the wear

Flooring February/March 2021

and tear of other non-sports activities. This is where multi-purpose sports floors such as Tarkett’s Omnisports vinyl range come into their own. With exceptional resistance to indentation, stains and scratches, the Omnisports range is designed exactly for this use with sports performance and multipurpose durability at the core of the product. Tarkett is a world leader in performance sports surfacing, offering a comprehensive portfolio of sports flooring solutions and having already supplied 100 million m2 of sporting floor products to more than 20,000 sites globally.

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Product Update

Quick-Step Laminate: an innovative all-rounder Top performance The Quick-Step team never compromise on quality. Perspective Nature has a 100% waterproof surface and therefore perfect for installation in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

When Quick-Step launched in 1990, the brand immediately put laminate flooring on the map. While they have since expanded in wood and vinyl flooring, Quick-Step have continued to improve their laminate category with even more life-like design, structure and performance. In 2019, this process led to the brand new Perspective Nature collection. The history of Quick-Step is laden with tales of daring entrepreneurship and innovation. Thanks to that rich history, they are not only able to present some of the most beautiful flooring on the market, but the strongest as well. They pride themselves on a dedication to beauty and elegance that is built to last. Quick-Step's Perspective Nature collection: redefining the essence of beauty “It’s always been our goal to create the most beautiful laminate floors. Perspective Nature, our latest collection, is marked by unprecedented levels of refinement.” Katrien de Vlieger, Design Manager and Laurent Meerssman, R & D Director at Quick-Step Perspective Nature is inspired by nature and pure influences, with white and light

colours dominating the palette. They were also inspired by the re-emergence of warm naturals and exotic colours from Africa and Latin America. The common thread present in all these floors is an eye for detail and a sense of craftsmanship.

Refined in every detail The ethos behind Perspective Nature is a laminate floor that looks and feels like real wood, without compromise. Since 1990, Quick-Step has continually pushed the development boundaries in ease of installation and water-resistant flooring and with Perspective Nature they have now perfected the realistic attributes of a real wood floor. The design and the joints are more refined and authentic; the structure precise and sharp.

The most refined water-resistant laminate floor The Perspective Nature collection brings together 30 years of innovation, perfection, creativity and technological leadership, resulting in a new innovative and groundbreaking range that delivers life-like design, detailed structures and unparalleled performance.

A floor for every customer Perspective Nature laminate is tailored to everyone’s liking. From die-hard wood lovers and style-savvy devotees to performancedriven consumers: this new collection will persuade even the toughest sceptics. Discover the unique selling points that will help you 8 close every deal.

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15 Feb – 30 April 2021

Wool carpet sale on now Feltex designer wool carpets are on sale now! Login to your Feltex B2B account to view sale pricing. b2b.feltex.com/au AUSTRALIA ONLY

Wool and its Benefits

Made from natural fibres, wool carpets are insulating, hypoallergenic and stain resistant.

Natural

Flame resistant

Renewable Fibre

& Fire-retardant

Regulates Temperature

Naturally

& Humidity

Hypoallergenic

Contact your local account manager for new sampling opportunities.

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Product Update

• For the die-hard wood lovers - With the Perspective Nature collection, they went to great lengths to create a top-shelf laminate floor, the closest to real wood ever seen. A wood lover in your shop? Show them Perspective Nature. • For the style-savvy devotees - To dream up new and authentic floors, a close eye is kept on architecture, fashion and design. The 12 new designs reflect

8 the latest trends of craftmanship, with different techniques used to create detailed structures, a patina effect and cracks all inspired by the latest trends.

tactile trends. For this new floor, the design team not only wanted to create the look but also the feel of real wood with its refined and detailed structure.

• For the performance-driven consumers - A Quick-Step laminate floor is made to last a lifetime. Appreciate the look and feel of real wood while still enjoying the comfort of a laminate floor. Through its characteristic water-resistant nature, Perspective Nature is the perfect match in damp areas like the kitchen or bathroom.

To achieve this level of realism, a new technology was developed. The plate pressing a structure consists of no less than 64 varying depths on the surface as well as in the bevel. This creates a play of light and shadow and a visual depth effect, which previously could only be recreated with heavy gloss levels. A brushed structure runs through the joint, reinforcing the authentic, refined look.

Brushed Oak: A showpiece of structure Brushed oak fits in perfectly with different interior styles. This floor is based on a brushed European oak sprinkled with a few subtle cracks and knots. The subtle brushed effect really brings out the natural imperfections and gives each plank a soft, rustic character.

The brushed effect really highlights the oak’s structure and makes the floor not only look but also feel like real wood. To accomplish this, Quick-Step developed a new technology to create 64 different depths.

The originals stand out by their natural imperfections and sit perfectly with current

In addition, the way the light hits these variations in depths creates a subtle difference in gloss levels. The attention to detail is quite astounding pushing the Quick-Step engineering team to go above and beyond what’s possible.

Polivac – 70 years of commercial cleaning success Operating as a successful Australian manufacturer of commercial cleaning machines for over 70 years, Polivac understands the changing environment in the cleaning industry. They have diligently manufactured commercial cleaning machines with advanced technology to continually help support their local and international community overcome these challenges. Dominator SL1600 ultra-high-speed suction polisher

Flooring February/March 2021

It is a challenge to bring back the original shine of hard floors especially when subjected to high foot traffic. In response to this challenge Polivac has introduced the Polivac Dominator ultra-high-speed suction polisher. This machine delivers speed and power to get difficult jobs done. Equipped with a 40cm pad and 1500 rpm pad speed this machine is ideal to buff smaller arears. The Polivac dominator is fitted with a total dust control vacuum system which ensures fast and highly efficient 10 dust removal in one pass.

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Modular Hybrid

Modular ModularHybrid Hybrid Modular Modular Modular Modular Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid

and the adhesive is on us!! www.kenbrock.com.au

*Limited time only. For more information contact your Kenbrock representitive.

www.kenbrock.com.au

VIC 17 Cato Street Hawthorn East VIC 3123 T 03 9765 2222 F 03 9765 2233

QLD 2 Kingsbury Street Brendale QLD 4500 T 07 3881 1000 F 07 3881 3287

WA-NT T 1800 674 145 F 03 9765 2233 TAS-SA T 1800 674 145 F 03 9765 2233 NSW-ACT T 1300 785 000 F 07 3881 3287

Product Update

Koala commercial vacuum backpack Understanding the market requirements for a comfortable, lightweight, powerful, and tough commercial vacuum cleaner Polivac has designed the Koala backpack vacuum cleaner. This vacuum backpack is equipped with a powerful 1100-watt motor which helps when deep cleaning carpet and upholstery. Koala is built to endure the toughest conditions, with its rotationally moulded housing designed for extra strength. It is also fitted with a 6-litre large dust bag which ensures less downtime. Terminator Plus carpet extraction machine

One of the most important aspects of modern business operation is to become more efficient, hence Polivac has used innovative technology to design and manufacture the Terminator Plus carpet extraction machine, which delivers maximum productivity and efficiency. This machine offers brute power in a compact

10 size body assisting the carpet cleaning industry in saving time, resources, and labour efforts. The Terminator Plus is equipped with 600 PSI pump (factory set to 500 PSI), it offers the power and performance of a large machine in a compact body for maximum manoeuvrability. This compact sized carpet extraction machine can easily fit into the back of most station wagons. Electric ULV fogger and battery-operated fogger These unprecedented times have been overwhelming for many of us, but the team at Polivac have built resilience in the face of adversity. To help their community adhere to workplace hygiene practices, they have introduced two types of foggers, that include the Electric ULV fogger and a battery-operated fogger. These foggers are engineered to exacting standards, to provide effective coverage with less spray solution. They are easy to use, lightweight, and portable. Best suited for trouble-free operation in supermarkets, hotels, hospitals, commercial facilities, offices, factories, schools and gyms. Complete and effective coverage can be achieved in a relatively short period of time and as such resources and labour efforts can be significantly minimised.

HOPPENS FLOORWORLD CAIRNS IS NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS Floorworld welcomes Hoppens Carpets to the Floorworld group. Wayne and Marlene Hoppen are generational in the flooring industry with their daughter Ebony now joining the team. “We are impressed by Flooworld’s business model which best suits our existing business. The low fee structure with plenty of support and the tested systems in place which can be adapted to grow our business to the next level while still maintaining our independence to suit our local North Queensland market.” says Wayne.

Hoppens Carpets is the longest established floor covering business in Cairns North Queensland. First established in 1974 by Bob and Marina Hoppen, Hoppens has built a solid reputation for delivering service that only comes from a long standing independent family business.

The business has since passed to son Wayne Hoppen who has been involved for over 20 years. Wayne together with his wife Marlene and their staff take pride in a hands on approach ensuring the highest levels of consistent customer service are maintained.

Cairns Jockey Club, Southern Suburbs Rugby League, North Cairns Tigers AFL, Ronald McDonald House and various schools in our area.” added Marlene.

Hoppens Carpets is built on long term relationships with their customers, staff and suppliers with many clientele repeat customers for over 10 years or more. “We have never subscribed to a one size fits all approach and coupled with a knowledge bank of 40 plus years adds up to proven success.” remarked Marlene. “We could see the benefits of joining Floorworld the background support network, other like minded retailers in the group and a great network of suppliers. Floorworld’s preferred supplier base, some existing for us and some new to our business will provide a strong

and consistent core range that suits our residential and commercial market.” “Adopting the Floorworld brand will add substantial value to our business. The transition so far has been very seamless and has been received positively in our local community.” says Wayne. “We also like that Floorworld, at a corporate level, is very much community focussed through their School Sponsorship Programme and we are looking forward to supporting the Pancare Foundation with its next campaign.”

Hoppens has built long term relationships with respected tourism companies, councils, government and builders to facilitate an extensive geographic reach with a network of handpicked contractors and continue to invest in the latest equipment and training to test the limits of quality and efficiency. “Now we are Hoppens Floorworld, the team is still committed in providing a tailored and personal flooring solution for our customers and to deliver a complete result that exceeds our customer’s high expectations.” says Wayne and Marlene.

“It’s also a privilege to support our own local communities -

Floorworld’s philosophy is to improve your business by providing a support mechanism for small business with our proven model of operational success. Intrigued by the possibility of joining a retail group with tangible benefits then Floorworld may be the perfect solution for you. If you are interested in the Floorworld model please contact Bob Crotty (03) 9761 5235 or info@floorworld.com.au for a confidential discussion.

At Floorworld, we offer more than just flooring.

Product Update

Korlok stones with InteGrout - an easy-to-install alternative One of Australia’s market leaders in luxury vinyl flooring, Karndean Designflooring, is celebrating the understated colour tones found in natural stone by introducing 12 new stone designs to its modern Rigid Core Korlok collection. The range includes accessories to extend their Korlok offering, which also features Korlok wood. Designed to offer quicker installation times and added acoustic benefits, it is the first time Karndean has added stones to its ‘click and lock’ rigid core portfolio. Warmer underfoot and easier to maintain than natural stone, the 18” x 24” tiles make the perfect choice for large and open plan spaces. Known for traveling the world in search of expressive and intriguing natural forms to inspire its designs, the Korlok Stone palette of 12 hues includes a range of silvery and warm mid-greys, muted and soft neutrals and honey-colours. From the striking charcoal-grey tones of Black Sands to the elegant Pumice Stone with its beautiful chalky limestone effect, there is a tone to match traditional and contemporary interiors alike. The collection also features Urban Grey and Oxford Grey with its contrasting warm, mid-grey colourways, and Cotswold Stone reminiscent of the dry-stone walls and honey-coloured cottages found in the beautiful Cotswolds of the United Kingdom.

imperfections and features a number of elements that help both the speed and ease of installations. Unlike typical textured grout, Karndean InteGrout is smooth and non-porous; it won’t harbour dirt or bacteria. Another major benefit to the InteGrout is that it can withhold the seasonal temperatures without cracking and can be maintained by a pH neutral cleaner. Like all Karndean floors, the designs are handcrafted to reflect the muted colour tones found in natural limestone and have been developed to include subtle veining, delicate mottling and a chalky appearance to create a realistic finish. As it clicks and locks into place without the use of adhesive, Korlok features Karndean’s K-Core technology meaning it can be fitted over most existing subfloors, floorboards or ceramics. With K-Core also providing excellent acoustic benefits by reducing sound transfer to rooms below by 21dB, it is fast becoming the format of choice for home designers looking to boost wellness and achieve a healthy home. InteGrout eliminates messy and time-consuming grouting process entirely The introduction of the new InteGrout for five colourways in is colour-coordinated and is seamlessly attached to each tile. Karndean’s premier rigid core clicklocking floor that is able to hide subfloor

Introducing colour coordinated Rigid Core accessories for each design To complete your rigid core stone or wood floor Karndean have five colour coordinated accessories for each design. All accessories are custom made with unique features such as tapered base plates to suit inbuilt underlay and come in convenient 2.3m lengths for ease of transport and handling. Accessories are suitable for residential and commercial use. All Karndean designs are durable, kid and pet friendly, waterproof and compatible with underfloor heating, as well as low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalate free backed by a Lifetime Residential Warranty and 15-Year Commercial Warranty. To view or order samples of Karndean’s Korlok collection, visit Karndean.com, where you can also find your preferred retailer.

Flooring February/March 2021

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w e N

! ! ! e c i f f O d a e H

IFC are extremely excited to welcome our new Office Manager Candice Quast to the team!

Candice will take over all day to day activities ensuring all orders and enquiries are processed with efficiency. Candice joins us with plenty of flooring industry experience having a wonderful rapport with all of our existing clients and welcoming our new ones too. At IFC we will continue to grow our ranges of carpet tiles and vinyl planks using new and innovative products, combined with old fashioned service to ensure our valued customers keep coming back. We’ve recently launched a fantastic new range of carpet tiles call MIST. If you would like to speak to your local rep and find out how helpful we are for yourself, please contact us.

1300288594

d e r e v o C t i t o g e v e W www.inspiredfloorcoverings.com.au

Product Update

ScreedPro leads self levelling revolution Renowned for their large fleet of screed pump trucks and rapid expansion across Australia, the team behind ScreedPro were busy throughout 2020 planning their next floor preparation innovation. Recently, ScreedPro launched their new generation of self-levelling pump trucks along with a new self-levelling product developed in collaboration with Sika Australia. Market disrupting technology ScreedFlow 1 and ScreedFlow 2 are based out of the company’s Sydney and Melbourne depots and mix and pump self-levelling at a rate of up to 15 tonne per hour to virtually any height and distance. National Sales Director, Les Stockdale explained, “self-levelling has remained largely unchanged for a generation. Installers lift and mix 20kg bags of product into buckets using drills before pouring it onto the floor. The health and safety hazards associated with dust exposure and manual handling of 20kg bags are well known as are the quality issues that come from manual mixing a few bags at a time. Builders, installers and developers needed and deserved a better solution.

Our fleet of ScreedFlow pump trucks use technology to change the market for the better. Eliminating dust, manual handling, on-site storage and inconsistent mixing, the pump trucks computer-controlled mixing and pumping system does all the hard work so the installers can focus their skills on the application.”

Throughout 2020 our Sydney R&D team worked closely with ScreedPro to develop a product that had the highest performance characteristics in the market but was able to be supplied in bulk through the ScreedPro system at significant cost savings and overall project efficiencies to both ScreedPro and Sika clients Australia-wide.” Market disrupting product The ScreedFlow pump trucks work handin-hand with a new self-levelling product developed in collaboration with Sika Australia called ScreedMax Level Ultra. Level Ultra is based on Sika’s market leading Sika Level Ultra but has been modified to work specifically with the ScreedFlow pump truck system. Sika Market Field Manager, John Jennings led the product development team and gave some insight into the project.

Flooring February/March 2021

“We have seen the way ScreedPro has transformed the traditional and engineered screed sectors with their screed pump truck fleet over recent years and when the opportunity arose to work with them on the development of a premium product for their self-level pump trucks, our companies found instant synergy.

ScreedMax Level Ultra combines the best of Sika and ScreedPro’s capabilities delivering a commercial grade 30+ MPa, indoor/outdoor, fibre reinforced selflevel with excellent flow and self-healing characteristics suitable for all flooring types including underfloor heating and able to be installed 1mm-30mm, or 3-60mm depending on mix ratios. Industry leading installers leveraging the full potential Managing Director of leading NSW floor preparation company, Drew Kealy of AllSeal

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Product Update

18 On managing ScreedPro’s growth trajectory, Les Stockdale explained how “rapidly growing a company across multiple jurisdictions is very challenging, however we had always planned our business in anticipation for this rate of growth and our fleet construction was scheduled years in advance. At the core of how we operate is to use technology as a lever in everything we do; operate with an extremely high degree of professionalism and integrity with our people, suppliers and clients; and deeply embed a culture of high-performance and safety in all we do.

joined the collaboration with ScreedPro and Sika throughout the field trials and initial rollout of the system. “For over 44 years AllSeal has mixed selflevelling manually. Now, the ScreedPro system has transformed the way we deliver floor levelling projects enabling us to install more product, faster and cheaper. We have deployed the system on projects of all scales including our highest profile Tier 1 projects and the results speak for themselves. The Sika formulated ScreedMax Level Ultra is absolutely the top specification in the market. Combined with the ScreedPro pump trucks it is an absolute game changer for us and our builders. The safety benefits of the pump trucks are becoming the industry standard. We incorporate ScreedPro and their pump trucks and their safety and quality systems into all our tenders and our builders don’t want it any other way.” What’s next for ScreedPro? NSW State Manager, Andrew Livingstone is leading ScreedPro’s penetration into the selflevelling market and provided an insight into their strategy.

Flooring February/March 2021

“Throughout 2021 and 2022 we will continue our construction program with a new pump truck rolling off the production line monthly. We have now commenced supplying selected Brisbane projects and will open permanent depots in Brisbane and Adelaide during the course of this year. We have a very strong pipeline of quality projects across Australia and will be focused on growing our team and fleet and introducing exciting new products currently under development. We currently have 14 screed and selflevelling trucks across Australia, and this is scheduled to double by mid 2022.”

We have found that these principles have served us very well over the years and resulted in us developing an outstanding group of suppliers, clients and staff who are highly motivated to work with us and have closely aligned their values and ambitions with ours. We are all very excited for the future.”

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Advertorial

Water-resistant floors for moments of joy

t BerryAlloc, we believe in life, in every kind of life, and every kind of floor. We are a Belgian-based international company that offers a wide array of interior solutions for residential and commercial purposes, including laminate, vinyl planks and tiles, parquet, high pressure floors, and wall panels. Suitable for all kinds of interiors and lifestyles, our products are especially reputed for their high quality, durability, ease of installation, and modern aesthetics. In fact, our most recent water-resistant laminate collection, Ocean+, particularly highlights one of our most innovative legacies. The pioneering hydro+ technology, introduced back in 2008, is a hydrophobic coating applied to all sides of the floor planks during manufacturing and repels water away from the joints. Combined with an airtight locking system, hydro+ is the reason why Ocean+ is completely water resistant. These floors are ideal for all areas within your home, allowing you to connect the same floor between rooms, no matter where. This easy-to-install laminate floor comes with a full range of both matching and hydro+

accessories which guarantees the integrity of water-resistant laminate as well as a complete finish. But there is more to this collection than its hydro+ finish: it is available in four different formats (standard and XL plank sizes, 8 mm and 12 mm thickness) and features a range of 30 natural wood and stone structures to enhance the surface of the floor. From ultra-embossed deep wood structures to classic, timeless wood and real wood structures, along with elegant stone designs, there is something here for everyone.

The entire process from concept to packaging takes place in Belgium, giving the floors the authentic made in Belgium label. As with all of the BerryAlloc’s laminate floors, Ocean+ is PEFC-certified and has an extremely low VOC emission. Water resistant, fade-free, scratch resistant, beautiful to look at, simple to look after, it ticks all the boxes of a floor made for modern life.

With a lifetime warranty for residential use, and abrasion classes 32/AC4 and 33/ AC5 respective to our 8 mm and 12 mm thick planks, these floors are made to withstand high traffic areas. Their tough and highly scratch-resistant surface makes them fit for both residential and commercial settings.

Want to find out more about what BerryAlloc has to offer? Discover similar ground breaking innovations in the other product groups, such as our super easy Dreamclick® locking system for our vinyl planks and tiles, or Ultimtec®, a solvent-free varnish to protect parquet floors. Guided by trends and technical expertise, we strive to inspire and delight our customers. Because to us, floors are the foundations for moments of joy. Carefree moments of joy. Find out more on - www. berryalloc.com. Are you curious to know more? Don’t hesitate to contact our regional sales manager for further information: Ümit Arisoy umit.arisoy@bintg.com

Flooring February/March 2021

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Training

Flooring Industry Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Brought to you by the FCIA

CIA is proud to announce that it has established the first ever Industry specific RTO for the Flooring Sector.

Pending the closure of our partner training organisation in NSW in February 2021, FCIA chose to form its own RTO, offering industry driven, on-the-job, apprenticeship training to approximately 100 existing apprentices in that state.

assist flooring installers with experience to gain their MSF30818 Certificate III in Flooring Technology through an RPL process. RPL is a great opportunity for those flooring installers who have years of experience within the flooring industry but hold no formal qualification.

On 14 January 2021, the FCIA Training Academy was officially approved by ASQA as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO code 45688) to deliver the MSF30818 Certificate III in Flooring Technology to apprentices in NSW, ACT and South Australia.

All of the venues chosen by the FCIA are selected to give something back to the community. This may include community buildings, charity organisations or other deserving groups. Residential Information

We have already applied for funding in NSW and Canberra to be followed by South Australia and Victoria. This also means that the FCIA Training Academy will shortly be offering School-based apprenticeships across the eastern seaboard and recognition of prior learning (RPL) for experienced but unqualified installers.

What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)? This could include work experiences, formal short courses, internal staff training sessions and volunteer work that would demonstrate the individual’s competency in all or some units of competency from the MSF30818 Certificate III in Flooring Technology. The RPL program is offered nationally through the FCIA Training Academy. Upon successful completion, FCIA will also issue a Certified Installer Trade Card.

MSF30818 Certificate III in Flooring Technology Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Following the creation of our Industry specific RTO, FCIA Training Academy can

Flooring February/March 2021

For many of our apprentices, these workshops play a key role in their apprenticeship by allowing them the opportunity to observe specific laying techniques from product experts, learn about new products, meet other apprentices and capture evidence that may be required for their training. It also gives apprentices an intensive, practical experience in all aspects of flooring installations including teamwork, communication, moisture testing, floor preparation and levelling.

FCIA Apprentice Workshops Whilst 2020 saw just about all Apprentice Workshops postponed due to COVID, we are happy to announce that 2021 will see these workshops back in each state.

Dates

A workshop has been scheduled each month in each state. For more information on the dates please go to www.fcia.org.au/events

Duration

1 week – Sunday afternoon to Friday lunch time

Venue

Each state has a different venue. Please go to www.fcia.org.au/events

Employer Costs

$1,500 plus GST This fee covers – accommodation, transport and meals (this could be tax deductible – seek confirmation from your accountant)

For further information please contact Fiona Wischnewski – 0407 295 149 or fwischnewski@fcia.org.au

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FCIA Apprentice Workshops The FCIA is lifting the profile and reputation of the flooring industry. To drive relevant, up to date flooring installation skills, FCIA coordinates intensive industry workshops which assists first- and second-year apprentices in the progression towards their qualification in Flooring Technology. The FCIA also gives back to the community by targeting these workshops to refurbish the floors of community buildings, charity organisations or other deserving groups. These workshops bring together FCIA members, RTO trainers and assessors, experienced installers and industry technical experts to provide apprentices with an intensive, practical experience in all aspects of flooring installation. This includes moisture testing, grinding, floor preparation and levelling, plus essential elements of resilient, carpet, timber and floating floor installation.

These workshops enable the apprentice to: • • • • •

Capture evidence required for their training for example, photos, videos, work diaries Support their training and skills with accessible and current online learning Receive practical assessment of a range of skills on site (as identified by the RTO assessor) Benefit from personal tuition in areas / skills in which the apprentice may be struggling Learn specific laying techniques from product specialists and industry experts

Residential Detail Dates

Duration Venue Employer Costs Further information

A residential is held each month in a different state. For the dates relating to your apprentice and business location, please go to www.fcia.org.au/events 1 week (Sunday to Friday inclusive) This will vary depending on your state. Please go to www.fcia.org.au/events $1,500 plus GST, covering accommodation, transport, and catering (this could be tax deductible - seek confirmation from your accountant) FCIA National Training Manager, 0407 295 149 fwischnewski@fcia.org.au

Company Profile

BBS, Innovators in installation products Story by Philip Ashley

BS Flooring Products is the only remaining manufacturer of carpet gripper and joining tapes in Australia. Outside of China BBS is one of few genuine manufacturers of these products in the World. To prosper in such a price-driven environment, owner and General Manager Will Bateman and his team innovate to stay ahead of their competition. Will said, “Innovation is BBS’s future, but it can also be risky and expensive. Of ten new ideas, maybe only one works, but we believe in Australia and in Australian-made. We never stop trying to make better products.” BBS Flooring Products started out in 2002 as a partnership with the American company, Halex Corporation. In the 1990’s Will had been General Manager of Roberts Consolidated Industries and had taken over part of this business when Roberts ceased trading in 1997. By the turn of the millennium Halex was looking to manufacture their gripper in Australia and had a working relationship with Will, who was their agent. Will was born in a remote part of South Africa in 1960 then emigrated to New

Zealand with his parents when he was young. He worked as a pharmacist in Auckland with a two-year stint in pharmaceutical manufacturing back in South Africa. In 1984 Will moved to Australia to work for several multi-national companies in sales, research, and corporate planning; positions he would find useful when he went out on his own. During those early years in Melbourne, Will attained a master’s in business administration, a qualification that led to his appointment with Roberts.

BBS is a Dandenong based company manufacturing accessories for the flooring industry. They started making only carpet gripper, adding trims and later, carpet joining tape as the company expanded their product base. As the industry changed, BBS broadened their range and looked for new opportunities. Will said, “Change comes slowly but it’s a continual process. Twenty years ago, 22mm wide domestic gripper was 85% of the market but today no one uses it. Installers prefer 25mm and 32mm grippers which are easier with stiff carpet backings, and also reduce accidental wall damage on installation. Today most carpet gripper is made in China and they drive the price down on these products, but they cannot produce the same technical quality and Australian types that BBS makes. Will says, “China wants their exports to be as simple as possible, like only selling black model T Ford’s, all the same. As a local manufacturer, we are able to make many local styles of gripper in various widths, pin rows and heights and we make them all to Australian and New Zealand Standards.”

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Company Profile obtain raw materials from more distant sources like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan to name a few. There hasn’t been a nail maker in Australia for the last 25 years.” BBS formulate and make their own hot melt adhesive for their carpet joining tape. Their hot melts are suited to join local carpets and installation techniques.

“It’s difficult to manufacture locally and compete against imports. In the 1990’s there were as many as 10 manufacturers of carpet gripper and joining tape in Australia and now there is just us. Two manufacturers remain in the US; one in the UK, and the rest of the supply comes from Asia, mainly China. Our product is designed for local Australian and New Zealand floor types and installers. We offer diversity of products for every carpet application. Imported products are more likely to be a one size fits all approach. Our hometown advantage is we can turn product around quickly and can generate the right product match when no one else can,” he says. Being the only manufacturer in the region means BBS works hard and does everything themselves. Their equipment is made and modified in-house to manufacture their products. Will says, “With the collapse of many local industries around us we’ve had to do this by necessity. We’ve also had to

Flooring February/March 2021

“It’s a different kind of challenge,” says Will, who went back to his days as a chemist to formulate hot melt glues. He says, “The strength in a carpet tape comes from the combination of adhesive and the fibreglass backing, both things we make right here in Dandenong in Victoria. We need to be experts in many technologies. We need to be flexible; we need to be able to adapt.”

23 Will travels overseas when he can and tells us, “The American and European flooring shows offer us the chance to build relationships and to learn about the latest technology.” Will continues, “Our customers are ordinary people and they always ask us, ‘is it made locally.’ When we tell them it is, they think it’s great. The drawback is the price is set by the cheapest manufacturer. We have to be very lean in our production to get close to the Chinese price.” Will is a ‘jack of all trades’ and in addition to managing the company, is deeply involved in research and development of not only new products, but of their manufacturing equipment. He understands all aspects of the business which leads to better business decisions.

Outside of work, Will spends time with his wife, Jennifer and teen age son, Henry. Jennifer bought him a beehive for his 50th birthday some years back and now he is keeping bees and producing local honey for family and friends. He has also taken up brewing pilsener beer. He says, “Home brewed beer is also a great local product that tastes like beer ought to.” A simple setup manages 80 litres in each brew. At 60 years of age, he has no plans to retire, as long as he is enjoying working, and is healthy enough. At the moment, progressing the business and looking after his many regional distributors is his main focus.

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Insurance Matters

Trade Credit Insurance – how can it help you get a better night’s sleep? Article by Ian Jones

f you are in a position of needing to provide flooring stock or provide contractor services on commercial or residential developments, then you will be all too familiar with that gut wrenching feeling of what happens if something goes horribly wrong. Something that is beyond your control and a realisation of your worst nightmare.

uilders and developers put everything on the line but unfortunately the trades, suppliers and contractors working under them are putting themselves at a certain risk all in the name of making a profit. There are a myriad of events that can dramatically increase that risk. Banks can be ruthless in the development and construction sector, economic downturns, either locally or globally can stop a development in its tracks, or simply bad management in those involved higher up the development ladder can see monetary problems filter down to those who may be critically dependant on the success of the project.

you. This means that it is ultimately you who feels the pain.

What happens when you start getting the run around when trying to get your account paid? $20,000, $50,000 or higher amounts being owed, but not forthcoming, could see your own credit management spiral into a desperate balancing act of trying to ensure that your business doesn’t become a casualty of someone else’s economic bad management. There are obvious important checks and balances that suppliers and contractors can and do take to make sure they get paid. Unfortunately, because you operate in the building and construction sector, the reality is there are cases where clients do go bankrupt and don’t have the assets to pay

Trade Credit Insurance is an insurance that some may have heard of or may have even looked into. Many business owners are deterred by the complexity, or the premiums that they believe to be too expensive to warrant, so they simply carry on in hope that all will be fine. There are however solutions out there to help you avoid writing off losses because your customers go bust. The smartest way to avoid a loss is to transfer the risk to a third party - an insurer. A trade credit insurance policy will mean that an insurer will pay you a claim for what you are owed if your customer goes into administration, bankruptcy or other critical financial circumstances arise. The insurer will not only help when things go wrong, they will assist at the front end, to perform a thorough analysis of the financial health of your customer, before you offer them an account. In all likelihood, with the insurer monitoring the financial health of your customer you will avoid a loss in the first place. If you do require the assistance of solicitors, or debt collectors to act on your behalf and speak to customers who aren’t paying you, the insurer will cover all associated costs. Just one of the assistance mechanisms that give you increased power to recover bad debt. FloorInsure – The Flooring Industry Insurance Brokers insure@floorinsure.com.au 1800 607 204 www.floorinsure.com.au

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

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

Technical Bulletin

Dementia Approved Flooring Brought to you by Forbo

ementia is a word we give to different symptoms that effect different aspects of thinking and brain function. They get worse over time and affect the way we live our lives. It is not a normal part of aging rather a result of physical diseases that damage the brain. Connections in the brain start to break down and depending on where this occurs in the brain it will impact different functions, whether it be sight, speech or attention span. There is no known cure or ability to slow this process. In Australia over 472,000 people suffer from dementia in 2021, with 318 people a day diagnosed. Without a cure this will rise to 650 people per day in 2056 or over a million suffers (demetia.org.au). We can’t fix the problem yet, however, we can adopt dementia friendly design principles that will positively improve the lives of those suffering. Flooring has a large role to play in designing for dementia as it is the single largest surface in a building and often as we age, we tend to look down most of the time. Tonal contrast, clarity, calming and simplicity are key and make environments safer and easier to use. It is critically important to choose the right flooring and accessories. Flooring- factors to consider for dementia areas whether at home or in residential care LRV or light reflectance values are critical to choosing the right tonal contrast for a floor and space. LRV is the scale or percentage of visible and usable light that is reflected from a surface when illuminated by a light source and is measured in units between 0 – total black and no light reflecting, to 100 – pure white 100% of light reflecting off the surface.

Flooring February/March 2021

Colours can be different and still reflect the same amount of light or tone. • Tonal contrast – work to the 30 LRV rule when needing to highlight critical surfaces like wall to floor separation. • Tonal continuity -work to less than 8 LRV rule difference in transitional spaces. Moving from a hall to bedroom becomes a clear pathway. Can be a different colour as long as the tone or light reflected is similar. • Reduce sensory overload -use plain flooring with simple designs such as large knots in timber look. • Reduce glare – use matt finishes. • Minimise noise – consider acoustic products. • Fit for purpose – commercial grade that will last and perform.

• Dementia accredited flooring – for example Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) approved list. Some examples of do’s and don’ts are shown below. A simple error of using a contrasting transition strip or trim can create an illusion of a step. A door matt can appear as a hole in the ground and this can create considerable stress to daily living, and many have no way of communicating this issue. To find out more about flooring for dementia environments you can view the dementia pages on the Forbo website, which, includes a third party DSDC assessed dementia filter that highlights approved colours and patterns for use. Or talk to our team who can even help provide an assessed and approved flooring design.

Below: Don't – contrast high, shiny trim, floor & wall

Below: Don't (with trim) and Do (without trim)

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NEW FLOTEX PLANKS VISUALS LIKE YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN BEFORE! www.forbo-flooring.com.au/flotex-planks

creating better environments

PR OV AL

BRIT IS

G ER ALL

LERGY FOU N AL N TIO DA

P UK SEAL OF A

Flooring February/March 2021

Engineered and direct stick timber

Rubber sheet/tiles

Dual bond carpet Direct stick - Broadloom carpet Direct stick - Needlepunch

Dual bond underlay

Carpet tiles

Linoleum

Residential vinyl - non looselay Sheet vinyl - commercial Sheet vinyl - wet areas

VCT

LVT/LVP

Floor covering application

High Grab4 Hard Set5 Single part moisture cured polyurethane & modified silane adhesives

High Grab4

✓

Carpet Adhesive7

✓



✓



✓



✓

Subfloor / substrate Types Particle F/Cement Hardboard board2 underlay underlay3

✓

Concrete slab

High Grab 5 Hard Set Pressure Sensitive6 Pressure Sensitive6 Carpet Adhesive7 7 Carpet Adhesive

Hard Set

High Grab Hard Set5 High Grab4 Hard Set5

Pressure Sensitive6

Commonly used 1 adhesive High Grab4 Hard Set5

FLOORING ADHESIVE CHECKLIST

No other adhesives recommended.

N/A

AS1884-2021

AS 2455.1:2019

Refer product manufacturer's installation instructions. No other adhesives recommended.

No other adhesives recommended.

Solvent based carpet adhesives are used for outdoor installations.

AS 2455.1:2019 No other adhesives recommended.

AS 2455.2:2019 No other adhesives recommended.

AS1884-2021

2 Part chemical cure & single part moisture cure.

No other adhesives recommended

AS1884-2021 AS1884-2021

Pressure sensitive sometimes used.

No other adhesives recommended.

Pressure sensitive6 sometimes used.

Installation Comment

AS1884-2021

Relevant Australian Standard

This document has been prepared by the FCIA to provide a simple guide to the type and use of adhesives in the installation of a range of floorcoverings. See over for important notes which should be read in conjunction with the table below. Always refer to the detailed instructions of the product manufacturer prior to applying the appropriate adhesive.

Adhesives Guide 28

The FCIA has produced a ready reckoner on the recommended adhesives to be used for various floor coverings. Please use this as a guide to best practice when installing floor coverings on various substrates. FCIA Members and associate Members can view and download the adhesives flyer by logging on to www.fcia.org.au

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Hardboard underlay

High grab adhesive

Hard set adhesive

Pressure sensitive

Carpet adhesive

As a result of constant R&D, adhesive manufacturers are developing a number of new technologies designed for the installation of floorcoverings (e.g. adhesive tape and water-based contact adhesives). At all times these products MUST be applied in strict accordance with manufacturers' recommendations.

Carpet adhesives: These adhesives provide a firm, powerful bond which maintains enduring tack post full cure Generic composition: Water-based, solvent free synthetic latex and acrylic polymer type.

Pressure sensitive : A pliable setting adhesive which remains permanently tacky and forms a bond via adhesion and cohesion modes, when 2 surfaces are pressed together with force applied. Generic composition: Water-based solvent free acrylic or other polymer type Note : The extent to which the adhesive is allowed to "go off" is dependent upon the floorcovering being installed - always refer to the product manufacturer's instructions when using Pressure Sensitive adhesive.

Hard set : A hard setting adhesive that displays a tackless film upon cure. Generic composition: Water-based, solvent free acrylic or other synthetic polymer, 2-part chemical cure (polyurethane or epoxy) single part moisture cure modified silane

High grab: These adhesives provide a firm, powerful bond which maintains enduring tack, post full cure. Generic Composition: Water-based, solvent free acrylic or other synthetic polymer type

Hardboard underlay - For the purposes of the above table this is a generic label which Includes Plywood, High Density Fibreboard (HDF) and Masonite™.

3 Most floorcovering manufacturers recommend that timber/particle board subfloors are sanded with hardboard underlay installed prior to installation of a floorcovering - Some manufacturers still allow the use of direct stick adhesive to these substrates.

See comments: The most commonly used adhesive is listed above but may not be the only adhesive used in the industry for a particular floorcovering. Always refer to the manufacturer's installation instructions as they may recommend a specific adhesive type for their Brand/Product.

TO BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE INFORMATION IN THE ABOVE TABLE

DISCLAIMER: The information in this brochure has been provided by members and affiliates of the Floor Covering Institute of Australia (FCIA) Ltd. Whilst reference is made to the Australian Standards it is the responsibility of the reader to obtain their own copy of the Standards if they wish to seek further information.

New and emerging product development

Timber / Particle board subfloors

Most commonly used adhesive

IMPORTANT NOTES:

Adhesives Guide 29

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CA290 Instant Grab Construction Sealant/Adhesive

CA290

BIOGEL EXTREME

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

Stair Nosings

3757

SLC ECO R3

Rubber

13652

13245

L34 HYBRID

Laminates

13245

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

L34 HYBRID

10061

3761

GRINTACK

SLC ECO SP70

7646

3757

SLC ECO R3

ECO TACK

3759

Product Code

SLC ECO GRINKOL

Product Name

Engineerd Boards

Concrete

Carpet Tiles

Carpets

Category

Product Code

www.kerakoll.com.au

www.classic-arch.com

Product Name

03 9448 8588

1300 244 377

Contact Number

Website

Kerakoll Pty Ltd

Classic Architectural Group

Company Name

900160

RLA Carpet Adhesive

900110 900150

RLA 999 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive RLA Carept Tile PS Adhesive

R285-15 R2000-15 900130 RL1000-10

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive RLA Hybrid Resilient Flooring Adhesive

R555-5 Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 555 Polyurethane Adhesive

R6355-5

RL1018-310ml

RLA 1018 Polyurethane Adhesive -310ml Roberts 6355 Cross Linking PVA Adhesive

RL1001-10

R48-5

Roberts Universal Primer RLA MS Timber Flooring Adhesive

14455

RLA WPM Moisture Seal Barrier

RMS-15

R640-15

Roberts 640 HS Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

Roberts 420 Medi Seal

R656-15

Roberts 656 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

R444-15

R100-15

Roberts 100 Carpet Adhesive

Roberts 444 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

R95-15

R85-15

Roberts 95 Carpet Adhesive

Roberts 85 Fast Tack Carpet Adhesive

SEMCO Liquid Anti-Fracture & Waterproof Membrane

Product Name

Product Code

www.semcosurfacesaustralia.com.au

rlapolymers.com.au Product Code

(03) 9977 5876

1800 242 931

Product Name

SEMCO Surfaces Australia

RLA Polymers Pty Ltd

Wood/Hardwood

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl Sheet

Vinyl Planks

Tactile Indicators

CA400 Two Part Flexible Polyurethene Adhesive

CA400

3M Super 77 Multi-Purpose, Fast Drying Adhesive 77 Adehesive

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

13245

3757

SLC ECO R3

L34 HYBRID

3756

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

SLC ECO 45/3

3757

SLC ECO R3

13652

BIOGEL EXTREME

3756

3757

SLC ECO R3

SLC ECO 45/3

3756

13652

SLC ECO 45/3

BIOGEL EXTREME

900100 900120

RLA 265 Vinyl Adhesive RLA Vinyl Plank Adhesive

900100 900130

RLA 265 Vinyl Adhesive RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive

R285-15 900110 900130

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive RLA 999 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive RLA Resilient Flooring Adhesive

Roberts Tru- Grip

RLA 1018 Polyurethane Adhesive -310ml

RLA MS Timber Flooring Adhesive

R2000-15

R280-15

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 280 HT Vinyl Plank Adhesive

R656-15

R18-10

Roberts Conductive Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 656 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive

R200-15

R2000-15

Roberts 200 Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

R285-15

R200-15

Roberts 200 Vinyl Adhesive

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

R280-15

R2000-15

R285-15

Roberts 280 HT Vinyl Plank Adhesive

Roberts 2000 Universal Flooring Adhesive

Roberts 285FR Universal Flooring Adhesive

SEMCO Liquid Anti-Fracture & Waterproof Membrane

Adhesives Guide

RLA Polymers Innovation Program: Delivering ground breaking adhesive solutions to the flooring industry

ustralia’s oldest flooring adhesive manufacture is busy pioneering innovative solutions for the everchanging built environment. Today RLA’s innovation program engineers new technological breakthroughs via a hierarchy of variables that takes into account material science, the environment and the impact on human health. RLA’s parent company Nan Pao encourages growth and diversification for the broader base of the RLA business. In more recent times, RLA’s technical centre of excellence was opened. The opening of the technical centre created a conducive environment for RLA’s technical team to expand its transformational scientific innovation program. RLA’s dynamic Managing Director Troy Hogan explains, “the support and investment in technological infrastructure has enabled RLA to evolve, as we continue to introduce ground breaking innovative technologies for our key target markets.” Green chemistry and sustainability are the guiding principles of RLA’s innovation program. RLA have proudly been associated with Green Tag with its Green Solution range since 2014.

Flooring February/March 2021

• The Roberts SLC Range: Incorporating the latest European technology locally made range of primers, levellers, feathering, patching & ramping compounds.

Throughout 2020 RLA re-certified a nominated range of flooring adhesive products that have achieved Green Tag certification under the latest Version 4.0 standard. RLA’s innovation program has recently seen the development and commercialisation of the following RLA products and ranges in several of RLA’s well-known market leading flooring brands: • Roberts 656 Carpet Tile Adhesive: RH95 & pH12 approved - Green Tag certified. • Roberts 280 LVT/P Adhesive: VOC compliant water-based technology designed for bonding luxury vinyl plank and tile (LVT/P) in high heat environments. • Roberts R2000 Resilient Flooring Adhesive: VOC compliant new generation multipurpose resilient flooring adhesive. • RLA RL1000 Hybrid Resilient Flooring Adhesive: VOC complaint isocyanate free one part moisture cured technology, designed for bonding vinyl and rubber floor covering in wet area and high heat environments. • RLA RL1001 Hybrid Timber Flooring Adhesive: VOC complaint isocyanate free one part moisture cured technology, designed for bonding most types of timber floor coverings.

RLA’s Chief Scientist Davide Caprotti recognises the rapid innovation curve in RLA’s flooring division. Davide goes on to say, “Richard Clinch, RLA’s technical flooring manager, is a leader and in my view is the regions foremost expert in the design and development of polymeric flooring adhesive technology. Caprotti also said, “throughout Richard’s career at RLA, he’s been responsible for the invention of several patented adhesive technologies that have been commercialised throughout the global Nan Pao network.” RLA’s innovation program has enabled a broad product offering. This in turn, allows RLA to offer a variety of system solutions with extended warranty periods. Hogan also summarised RLA’s innovation program by saying, “our technical team, design and engineer solutions with the latest advances in material science. This is recognised as RLA’s core competency and drives our competitive advantage, delivering value to all key markets.” web www.rlapolymers.com.au

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ooring ﬂ in e m a n d e t s u The oldest tr

Tel: 1800 242 931

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Adhesives Guide

Liquid membrane waterproofing adhesive “For over 25 years, I have been developing a line of surface products designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Along the way, I have been met with many challenges. Our clients wanted a product that streamlined the waterproofing process, offered the durability and strength to stabilize multiple surface types and wood substrates, and also function as a waterproof adhesive. Unlike many products on the market that only accomplish one or two of these requirements, my goal was to create a single, high-performance solution that could meet all of them. That ‘one source’ solution is, Semco Liquid Membrane” Samel Sem, The Founder Waterproofing is a fundamental construction component used in wet areas to protect the building structure. The Semco Liquid Membrane doubles up as both a waterproof membrane and an anti-fracture adhesive and has gained global popularity among industry professionals for its advanced antifracture composition and versatility through application to multiple surface types. Semco Liquid Membrane is engineered and designed to streamline the waterproofing

process and is one of the most advanced anti-fracture and waterproof liquid membranes on the market. With outstanding adhesion to multiple surface materials and up to 1300% elongation, the Semco Liquid Membrane is being used on projects worldwide in wet rooms, showers, swimming pools, basements, over wooden surfaces, unstable substrates, concrete screeds and roofs.

• Anti-fracture • 1300% stretch and elongation • Low VOC equating in more efficient project completion • Breathable (will not trap any moisture where it's applied to) • Easy to use (can be applied with a roller or brush) • Heavy duty and rated for load bearing • Active adhesion, integrated chemical adhesion • Suitable for waterproofing pools, water features, showers and wood surfaces • Stabilises wood substrates • A vapour / waterproof solution for negative side waterproofing • 500 PSI or 3.44 n/mm2 adhesion

Semco has been a trusted manufacturer of high-quality construction products for over 25 years. The key benefits of their Liquid Membrane include: • Single Component • Water-based

If you're interested in purchasing the Semco Liquid Membrane for one of your projects or for more information, please contact sales@ semcoaustralia.com.au or (03) 9977 5876 web www.semcosurfacesaustralia.com.au

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LIQUID MEMBRANE

For more information contact SEMCO Surfaces (03) 9977 5876 sales@semcoaustralia.com.au

WATERPROOFING & ANTI-FRACTURE MEMBRANE BY SEMCO SURFACES

The SEMCO Liquid Membrane is one of the most advanced anti-fracture & waterproof liquid membranes on the market. With 1300% elongation, the Liquid Membrane can be used in a multitude of applications.

APPLY LIQUID MEMBRANE OVER: Concrete Plywood Villaboard Stone Tiles Compressed Sheeting Exterior / Interior Cladding

APPLY LIQUID MEMBRANE TO: Wet Rooms / Showers Swimming Pools Basements Wooden Surfaces Unstable Substrates Flat Roofs

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Adhesives Guide

Innovative Green products from Kerakoll the Italian leaders

erakoll is one of the world’s leading groups in the Green Building sector.

• The removal of harmful petrochemicals allows the products to have strong workability characteristics. Once again in the pursuit of green products, the company uses natural plant and mineral based compounds with the by-product creating a superior performance.

Kerakoll formed in 1968 and has been the pre-eminent innovator in the industry. Kerakoll was the inventor of the single component adhesives for the sector and developed a vision in the early 90’s to transform products. The company moved its products from its superior innovative position to make them ecologically safe and Green in the true sense of the word, removing chemicals and substituting them with mineral based materials. The company is the only one in the world that has eco tested and certified each one of its 1700+ products through the SGS institute (Switzerland based, and the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company).

Kerakoll has had a long history in the European market driven by the great success in the Italian market with its Green innovation. The company has had a strong increase in turnover on foreign markets which accounts now for a 45% share of the total group turnover. The company boasts some unique products in the premium segment including; • Zero respirable crystallite silica (RCS) in self levelling materials and adhesives which is the first in the industry segment.

• Almost all of the products in the Kerakoll range are single component including the award winning L34 Hybrid, specifically designed for timber products. • With low VOC’s and high mineral content across the entire range the Kerakoll products are able to breathe and as a result do not leach harmful odours or smells. The Kerakoll brand is renowned in its field for competitiveness, speed of innovation, product reputation and high standards of service. For further information on the 1700+ green building products, visit Kerakoll's website. web www.kerakoll.com.au

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Spotlight On

Andersens - shaping the future of the franchise network

ith a career in franchising and retail spanning 25 years, Rowan Hodge joined Andersens as their CEO in January of 2019. “I was really excited to join such an iconic Queensland company and to help shape the future of the franchise network. It’s a remarkable business with such a rich history, but what really excited me was the amazing growth potential,” he said. And he wasted no time in making the most of it. “It’s been a big couple of years to say the least. COVID has been a nuisance, and a high priority one at that. But we’ve managed to execute a lot of growth and positive change in a short time.” “We’ve simplified the fee structure to incentivise growth and introduced automatic franchise renewals for $1. We’ve also rolled out an Australian first augmented reality platform and an online rug store to better serve our busy customers; and a voluntary service charter with double the frequency of franchisee surveys and a revamped training

Flooring February/March 2021

platform to better serve our franchisee investors.” “Sustained double-digit growth has prompted our team to add a second warehouse. And new store growth and customer insights have prompted us to introduce the first new store design in ten years – the first of which will be unveiled in Warner’s Bay next month.” But it wasn’t just business improvements that Hodge has overseen, “Being a part of the community is such a large part of what Andersens is about – it stems from our country town roots. Andersens began as a family business and it’s never stopped feeling like that. Being part of a family is about helping others and making a positive impact. Consumers want to know what you stand for and what you believe in. At Andersens we’re passionate about country town service, about the land, and about Aussie jobs.”

“I’m incredibly proud that Andersens local business owners just raised $86,000 for the Smith Family. These same franchisees have now commissioned over 43,000 trees for planting in 40 countries, including five plantations right here in Australia. When you join Andersens, it’s not just about joining a flooring company, it’s about joining a family of like-minded people. It’s about thinking what I can do to help my customer, my team and my community.” Hodge is particularly proud of the mentor program, whereby the franchisor pays experienced franchisees to spend time each week with new franchisees for six months. There is also a new $20,000 referral bonus to encourage franchisees and vendor partners to introduce talent to the network, and a $10,000 training bonus paid to existing franchisees for making sure new recruits receive world class training as they come 40 aboard.

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60 YEARS OF SUCCESS | MARKET LEADER LARGE WAREHOUSE WORLD CLASS TRAINING & SUPPORT

Spotlight On

40 day, a franchisor can only exist because of its franchisees. It’s in our interest that our franchisees are successful. It helps that the flooring category is performing strongly in the short term due to the home improvement boom, and the long-term outlook is excellent based on forecast population growth, but trust and loyalty are critical in any climate.”

The last 12 months have been trying for everyone. Australia has done very well in comparison to a lot of the world, but of course there have been challenges concerning supply chain, travel and safety. The uncertainty of wholesale and retail trading conditions, and the challenges for global shipping have been dramatic, and sometimes – very sudden. The Andersens leadership team and the franchise community have pulled together through consultation, training and support to try to stay ahead of the potential disruptions. Hodge explains, “we definitely didn’t get everything right, and not everything we did was popular in the moment. But on balance I’m very proud that we showed the courage to lean into development, growth and reserves, rather than shrinking from the challenges we faced. Three great examples were a huge stock surge we undertook at a time when nobody knew what would come next; a major push into media buys that were suddenly distressed; and the launch of our augmented reality platform – the first of its kind in the retail flooring industry in Australia.”

and brand power. The Andersens team never let themselves forget that it is the support and camaraderie of a community of likeminded individuals that franchisees love. This is something everyone in the Andersens family whole heartedly believes. “As franchisors, we can be a trusted advisor, or coach, or even servant.” Hodge says with a laugh, “because at the end of the

“It’s been an amazing couple of years being with the company and seeing Andersens scale and brand continue in our sixth decade. This year we will again face new challenges including a new IT system. But our network has been through wartime, recessions and booms, droughts, fires and floods and even a pandemic, and we have sustained and thrived throughout. Our exciting journey is continuing with dozens of new stores planned over the next decade. But we will succeed if we keep focused on what has made us special, our country town values.” Hodge says, “A great example of our country town service can be found in something Jack Andersen was fond of saying - Treat the customer like she’s your mum’s best friend.”

Joining a franchise is a great way to reduce risk, and to profit from systems, processes

Flooring February/March 2021

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An organic free-flowing pattern for a stylish statement With a carefully selected colour palette, Curious Path is a commercial flooring solution that features an understated and stylish finish with its organic free‑flowing pattern.

Contact your local GH Commercial representative to order sampling and discuss your next commercial project.

At a premium 4 metres wide, this Australian Made commercial broadloom allows for less joins to maximise installation efficiency. This range also features a contract extra heavy duty grading that provides superior strength and durability for high traffic areas. In stock now for a quick turnaround, Curious Path 4M is perfect for any medium to large scale project.

AU: 1300 444 778 | NZ: 0800 500 210 WWW.GHCOMMERCIAL.COM

Retailer of the Month

A Matter of Trust Story by Philip Ashley

cott Shearer owns and operates Choices Flooring in the Eastern Melbourne suburb of Doncaster. It’s a new retail outlet opened last August, relocated from Bulleen four kilometers away, due to the North East Link road project acquiring that land. The new store in Doncaster is spacious; showcasing the extensive range of products available, with a spacious entry foyer, reception and a lounge area where customers can be served refreshments or children can watch TV. Customers can stand at small, high tables around the showroom, or in a quiet design area to discuss their purchase with the sales staff.

42 “The key to success is consistency.” Says Scott. “Choices Flooring does a brilliant job from the extensive product offering to the brilliant marketing of our products and services and what our customers see online is consistent to what they see in our showroom.” Paul Meaney is retail operations manager and adds, “Our showroom is important for several reasons. It’s a validation of what they’ve looked at online. It’s also a confirmation of what they want, and a place to build a relationship and trust.” And that trust is borne from Scott’s 32 years in the industry, starting out at the age of seventeen, working with a laying service; then in a workroom cutting and making up; followed by experience in sales. Scott spent some time in the head office of Newfurn Floorcoverings in Bulleen in store support through to marketing. He went into his own business in 2000 where he bought into an existing business in Bulleen. Five years ago, Scott bought out his partner.

relationship, build confidence not only in our product, but more importantly, in us as a quality flooring provider.”

Above: (L-R) Paul and Scott. Below: The Doncaster sales team

At the time they had Choices Flooring showrooms in Niddrie and Bulleen, with their admin and warehouse in Thornbury. Today Scott owns Choices Flooring outlets in Niddrie and Doncaster and employs 22 people across the business from the showroom,

Scott said, “When we found this property, we had a blank canvas and decided to do something out of the box. Customers do not particularly enjoy sitting in front of a salespersons desk, they want to relax. After all, flooring can be a significant personal investment. We like to think we provide a calming space where we can build a

Flooring February/March 2021

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Retailer of the Month

43 and have taken the time to come out to see if everything is to their satisfaction.” Paul adds, “An issue presents us with an opportunity to cement our relationship with the customer even further.”

administration, and warehouse installations. The business also employs approx. 15 subcontractors, ensuring he delivers the highquality installations all of the time. Paul said, “Our people are especially important to the business. They set the standard for quality that’s not only about the product, it’s also about their experience in the showroom; the follow up they get from the people in our warehouse, and the attention to detail our contractors provide.” Scott says, “There are a lot of opportunities in the flooring industry. Our business has expanded on experience and developed steadily over the years. We’ve evolved to meet customer expectations, and these have grown more over the last five to seven years than in the previous twenty. Our consumers all access the internet and are well-versed in most aspects of the flooring they are looking at buying. We position ourselves pretty well and always strive to meet their expectations. Many retailers don’t, so their key strength then becomes only price.”

Scott’s team handles plenty of commercial projects including kindergartens; hotels and medical centres. They have also built an exceptionally good reputation within aged care facilities over the last twenty years. They can be selective with commercial work where there is some risk. Their residential work covers a wide range of properties in both value and styles and is predominantly refurbishments. Scott is confident that the surge in spending on the home as a result of COVID will continue for the foreseeable future and adds, “The economy might be fickle but it’s strong. The well-established and strong businesses will survive.” When asked about problems, something most businesses don’t want to talk about, Scott says, “We exist to strive and deliver the best possible experience a client can have with us when buying floor coverings. We get accolades from customers even when we might have a small problem on how we address to fix it. The customer is often impressed when they find out I’m the owner

Scott has high praise for the Choices Flooring Group’s training in product knowledge; sales training; colour; design and estimating. He says Choices Flooring are doing a great job and more is achieved every year. Scott employs two apprentices who work with four installers he employs himself but admits it’s not easy attracting young people into a physical trade. He says, “We have to break the mold and make the industry more attractive to young people.” Scott tells us that one of his layers is seventy years of age and still on the tools! He says, “He can do this because he works smarter, using best practice.” Scott can’t see himself doing anything else. He says, “The flooring industry has great people and plenty of opportunities and we will look at those as they come along. We’re about to refurbish the showroom in Niddrie; it’s a smaller store but we will apply the same innovations as we did here in Doncaster. Flooring is a big purchase for our customers, and we are here to build confidence in us, and to deliver to their expectations. For us it’s not just a business, it’s a matter of trust.”

Look what’s NEW! Welcome to Airstep Online Ordering, where you can now order both Underlay and Hard Flooring products at your convenience, 24/7. We invite you to register using the link below: https://eorder.airstep.com.au/Account/RegisterAir For more information, please contact your Airstep Account Manager.

www.airstep.com.au 1800 803 545

www.imaginefloors.com.au 1800 803 545

1300 737 155 australianflooringsupplies.com.au | afscustomerservice@qep.com

NEED FLOORING SUPPLIES? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. Australian Flooring Supplies (AFS) is the force in flooring. As Australia’s largest flooring accessory distributor and a design-led flooring company, AFS is a total flooring solution. We’ve just opened three more great locations to make it even easier to find everything you need.

With our large branch network and dedicated Customer Service Team plus high stock levels and delivery options on all your flooring installation supplies, AFS is the partner you need.

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EXPERT ADVICE | COMPETITIVE TRADE PRICES | LEADING BRANDS

Safety

CleanSpace - respiratory protective equipment Respirators exceed minimum requirement for silica dust exposure limits. The WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety has found that higher rates of Respirable Crystalline Silica exceedances occur at sites that crush and or handle ores with higher quartz content (for example, construction sands, silica-sand quarries and base metal operations). In Australia, effective since October 27, 2020, the workplace exposure standard has been halved from an eight hour time weighted average (TWA) airborne concentration of 0.1 milligrams per cubic metre (mg/m3) to 0.05 mg/m3. And from October 27, 2021, the workplace exposure standard for respirable coal dust is expected to be halved to 1.5mg/

m3. WorkSafe Victoria has gone above the national standard and recommends that employees are not exposed to levels above 0.02mg/m3 as a TWA. Respirable crystalline silica also causes lung cancer and silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease. Silica dust is harmful when inhaled into your lungs. As it is 100 times smaller than a grain of sand, you can be breathing it in without knowing. Silica is one of the most abundant minerals found in the earth’s crust and is used in many products across a variety of industries and workplaces. Crystalline silica is most dangerous to health when dust is generated, becomes airborne and is then inhaled by a worker.

While there are many industrial activities where people are exposed to respirable crystalline silica, the most notable are stonemasonry, mining, excavation, construction, tunnelling and abrasive blasting. There are several areas that are to be addressed to effectively reduce exposure to silica dust. They are: • Wet Cutting • Ventilation and other engineering controls • Isolation • Substitution • Health monitoring • Respiratory Protective Equipment To control the risk of exposure and to maintain a safe work environment, it is highly recommended that workplaces provide adequate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) specifically designed and certified to protect workers from inhaling hazardous airborne contaminants. With regards to respiratory protection, PAPRs (Powered Air Purifying Systems) with at least a P2 filter are the new benchmark across most industries. CleanSpace Respirators, meet and exceed these minimum requirements offering a P3 filter that removes 99.95% of airborne contaminants. CleanSpace Respirators are a revolution in the area of respiratory protection because while they provide all the protection of a PAPR, they a free from belts, battery packs and hoses. CleanSpace Respirators are AS/NZS 1716 (Respiratory Protective Devices) certified. Even when used in hot and humid conditions, CleanSpace Respirators provide cool, clean air to the user and eliminate fogging and moisture. CleanSpace

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Safety

respirators are light, easy to put on, reliably safe and comfortable. The clear silicon mask is comfortable and allows for easy communication. CleanSpace respirators are operated using a simple one-button smart system. These features combined mean workers are more likely to wear them for a full shift. Compared to disposable masks, CleanSpace Respirators offer more protection and are more economical as the cost of replacing disposables stacks up. Disposable masks are well-known for causing fogging and discomfort, leading to low compliance. CleanSpace Respirators have four models depending on the requirements of the industry.

• CleanSpace 2 can be used in a variety of industrial applications where water tolerance or intrinsic safety is not required. • CleanSpace HALO is designed specifically for the Healthcare, Pharmaceutical and Laboratory sectors.

• CleanSpace EX is intrinsically safe, so that it can be worn in potentially explosive environments such as mining. • CleanSpace ULTRA is IP rated 66, making it water tolerant, perfect for stonemasons carrying our wet-cutting.

CleanSpace Technology, an Australian company based in Sydney, assists in product training, fit testing and instructions on maintenance and care with attentive customer support. Contact CleanSpace Technology to request a demonstration: sales@cleanspacetechnology.com www.cleanspacetechnology.com

AUSTRALIAN OWNED LEADING SUPPLIER AND INSTALLER OF PUBLIC ACCESS SYSTEMS TO THE FLOORING INDUSTRY

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Safety

Introducing Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2021 A celebration of brighter, hopeful times ahead and the unyielding human spirit. From eager new year resolutions to uncovering new trends, the start of a new year makes way for fresh beginnings. Considering the unsettled times of the previous year, the saying “out with the old, in with the new” will resonate now more than ever, as we journey into 2021. Annually anticipated for over 20 years, Pantone’s Colour of the Year has long influenced and inspired design, packaging, product development and purchasing decisions. Setting the colour tones for multiple industries, from fashion to home furnishings and industrial design, the selection process is led by a considered analysis of the latest trends. Combing every corner of the globe, Pantone’s Colour Institute team takes inspiration from diversified influences including the entertainment industry, upcoming films, art, travel, lifestyle, socio-economic conditions, technologies and more. Pantone’s 2021 colours: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating

“The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude. Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a colour combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.” Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Colour Institute

setting leaders in the field when researching and updating their innovating product range. With options for both classic and contemporary applications, their solutions are customised to seamlessly complement your project requirements. Beautifully aligned with Pantone’s 2021 colour selections, Classic offers Mid Grey and Yellow inserts which are available in many of their Classic Tredfx stair nosing options.

Together, they pay tribute to the fighting human spirit in times of continuing uncertainty, while aspiring to a brighter, hopeful future. Explore Classic Architectural Group’s take on this year’s colour trends As a trusted go-to for all things architecturally-designed safety and access solutions, Classic Architectural Group works hard to stay on the forefront of the latest industrial and design trends. Rather than playing it safe, they consistently look to Pantone Colour Institute and other trend-

Available in a myriad of aluminium colours including Natural, Black, Gold and Bronze, their friendly team are more than happy to consult and recommend the best products to align with your architectural vision. Plus, you’ll be glad to hear that their recently unveiled Classic Tredfx Solid Brass stair nosing range also comes with the on-trend Mid Grey and Yellow insert colourways. Missing Pantone’s pop of colour from previous years? Classic Tredfx stair nosing continues to offer the bold, fun colours from 2020, 2019 and 2018. To learn more about the Classic range or to request a sample go to the website for more details www.classic-arch.com

Flooring February/March 2021

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Safety

Floorsafe 3D LumoGlow strip inserts

hen natural light is interrupted by power failure and smoke obstruction emergency exits need to be properly illuminated in order for evacuation to take place safely in temporary darkness.

daylight or fluorescent light. The 3G insert is a 50mm wide rubber compound with three luminous strips. When fully charged the luminous glow will last between 45 to 60 minutes.

Floorsafe’s quality Australian made aluminium stair nosings offer great performance and affordability. The stair nosings come complete with countersunk holes and a choice of luminescent inserts.

The LumoGlow insert is a clear 50mm x 3mm aluminium base product which incorporates 30mm of the photo luminescent strip and 20mm of the black anti-slip safety tape. When fully charged the brightness of the glow will last from 4 to 6 hours.

The LumoGlow luminous strip inserts are charged by normal illumination through

For samples or further information call Floorsafe Australia 1300 717 769.

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Carpet

MJS congratulates Accu-Cut on 30 years

fter his involvement with major floorcovering manufacturers, Scott Brockie could see the value of retail level carpet cutting machines. Scott pursued his idea and after years in design and production of carpet cutting machines, Scott opened Accu-Cut in 1990. Now with the help of his two sons Trevor and Trent, Accu-Cut has established itself as the market leader in carpet cutting machines worldwide. Accu-Cut has a range of five carpet cutting machines with each designed to meet the needs of a different floorcovering outlet. From the baby of the fleet, the J2, which is ideal for a small retailer to the top of the range, the X33 machine, which is ideal for carpet manufactures, warehouses, carpet logistic operations and major commercial contractors. Manufactured in Canada each component is cut to precision in the high-tech computer cut facility. All the machines frames are robust and fully welded to ensure they are ready to face the rigor of years of use and thousands of cuts of hundreds of rolls of carpet.

Flooring February/March 2021

offer sensor controlled pneumatic alignment systems that ensure a neatly rolled cut every time even when using the machines at high speeds. This allows larger retailers and commercial contractors to easily manage vast amounts of material efficiently.

As technology has advanced, Accu-Cut has developed their machinery to include extremely accurate digital measuring devices. The Q7, Q9 and X33 machines also have the ability to interface with selected floorcovering software packages enabling the retailer to send the cuts directly from their computer to the machine. Thereby assisting retailers in accurately integrating their warehouse directly into their inventory software. Accu-Cut’s innovation is also evident in the patented cutting systems, which uses a chain driven self-sharpening circular blade, ensuring a perfect cut every time. The Acc-Cut X33 and Q9 machines

MJS Floorcoverings has been the proud distributor of Accu-Cut machinery in Australia for over 13 years. Over that time, MJS has assisted Accu-Cut become the leader in the Australian market. MJS can provide an installed price into your local facility and offer staff training as part of the delivery so you can confidently begin using your new machine immediately. Together with their service partners Sutikely, MJS also offer preventative maintenance on your machinery to ensure you get years of reliable use. For product information, to organise a demonstration and to receive a quote, please visit the MJS Floorcoverings website.

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Software

Improve your business by embracing electronic quantifying Story by Chris Ogden What is preventing you from benefiting from a quantifying solution? Quantifying software is here to stay. It is not a fad. It is not a toy. Nor is it a poor substitute for traditional quantifying methods. Simply put, electronic quantifying is one of the best ways to improve a flooring business. Over the last twenty years or so, quantifying software has become a fixture in many flooring businesses, but it is still not as widely used as it should be. Two decades is an age in the world of technology, so, as you would expect, current quantifying software for the flooring industry has improved. In fact, the most significant leaps forward have taken place over the past five years, with more powerful computers and the advent of tablet devices.

Flooring February/March 2021

In the ten years we have been supplying Measure by RFMS to flooring businesses in Australia and New Zealand, I have seen a subtle change where most flooring retailers now acknowledge the need to move to electronic quantifying. Questions no longer revolve around why flooring businesses would make the move, but how they can make the change. Many have tried but failed to get electronic quantifying established in their business. This article aims to understand why this is can be the case and what we can do to overcome the obstacles. Lack of confidence. Quantifying is fundamental to the success of a flooring business. We cannot afford to get it wrong. As a business owner, you need to spend time becoming comfortable with the fact that anything you can do on paper with a scale rule and calculator, you can do in a

Quantifying software is here to stay. It is not a fad. It is not a toy. Nor is it a poor substitute for traditional quantifying methods. quantifying application. Only better. And quicker. We can put you in contact with retailers who have made the change, and we are very happy to quantify some plans you have already quantified as a starting point to building your confidence. Time constraints. Finding the time to learn something new is a significant challenge to implementing any change; Measure by 54 RFMS is no different. Until the

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

salesau@rfms.com

Software

new user becomes competent with Measure, the quantifying process will be slower. It is frustrating, particularly if plans are mounting up. There is no simple solution; the transition takes time, but the more commitment that is shown, the shorter it is. There is some short term inconvenience for the long term benefits, but the Measure team will be there to help along the way. Believing electronic software is an experimental technology. Unless it is understood that electronic quantifying is a proven technology, you might feel like a guinea pig. Electronic quantifying has been around for a long time, and it has long been proven to have significant benefits over traditional quantifying methods.

Questions no longer revolve around why flooring businesses would make the move to electronic quantifying, but how they can make the change.

Leaving it to staff. Moving from traditional quantifying methods is primarily a business decision. As business owners, once we have decided on a change that will be good for our business, we should expect our staff to support that decision. Strangely, this is often not the case when it comes to electronic quantifying. Often attempts

to implement electronic quantifying fail, because the salespeople didn’t like it. Not liking something is not a sufficient reason to subvert the goals we have for improving our business. Not recognising the need to manage change. In an ideal world, we would execute changes in our business with just a straightforward communication to our team. We don’t live in that world, so change is like turning a large cruise liner; we need to keep our hand on the steering wheel for as long as it takes to make the change. Our team needs to understand the reason for and benefits of the change. They need to know that as owners, we will not be dissuaded by intransigence on their part, and that they will get the training and support they need to make the change.

BE ACCURATE, BE EFFICIENT, BE PROFITABLE MEASURE MOBILE • Draw Scale Plans • Add, Delete and Move Seams • Include Doorways and Stairs • Calculate Material Quantities • Create and Email Quotes • Take Signed Acceptance on Tablet • Take Payments

NOW INTEGRATES WITH

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

salesau@rfms.com

Software

55 experienced quantifiers and salespeople; the purpose of tools like Measure by RFMS is not to make our experienced staff redundant but to free them to do more productive things with their time.

Seeing electronic quantifying as a threat. Electronic quantifying enables staff with no estimating experience to quickly gain a skill that otherwise can take years to learn. This can make our team feel threatened. They need to understand that electronic quantifying is a tool that enhances our

Lack of training and support. Sometimes the salespeople don’t make the change because they had insufficient training or didn’t get the support they needed when they needed it. We recognise this, so Measure by RFMS provides free trials and free training; for as long as your staff need to get comfortable and competent with the software. They will also have access to a free phone number to get instant support when they need it. Moving to an electronic quantifying application is a significant change, but it’s not as difficult as we might think. Over the past ten years, we have trained hundreds of clients across Australia and New Zealand,

A U S T R A L I A

…change is like turning a large cruise liner; we need to keep our hand on the steering wheel for as long as it takes to make the change. to use Measure by RFMS, and they have successfully made the change. Many now say they regret not making the change sooner. You might be wondering how you could successfully establish electronic quantifying in your business. Contact me at my email address below, and I will be happy to have that discussion with you.

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

On-line sales: www.floorsafe.com.au Email: sales@floorsafe.com.au Phone: 1300 717 769

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Overseas News

DOMOTEX 2021 goes digital After initially being postponed to May 1820, Domotex will no longer take place as a hybrid trade show format this year. The current global infection situation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic makes it impossible to plan and organise a physical presence on site in Hannover at the world's leading trade show for carpets and floor coverings. Instead, new digital formats will cover the topics of the international floor coverings industry in May 2021. The hybrid style event was planned to run in January and later rescheduled for May. Currently, an alternative digital business platform is planned - Domotex Digital Day on May the 20th, 2021. The focus element of this platform is a digital conference that will address both current and progressive topics in the international flooring industry.

exhibitors as well as visitors, have a long planning period. Following the recent surge in global coronavirus cases, accompanied by lockdowns, worldwide travel warnings and quarantine requirements, we now have had to make this decision. Unfortunately, for the first time in its 32-year history, we will not be able to organize Domotex in 2021 as a physical trade show on our exhibition grounds in Hannover. Even a hybrid Domotex is not realistic in the current situation, as it would require a certain proportion of physical exhibitors and visitors on-site, combined with travel from all parts of the world. We have therefore decided to organise Domotex as a purely digital event, in order to give our customers the necessary planning security from now on," explains Dr. Andreas Gruchow, Member of the Management Board of Deutsche Messe AG.

"Trade shows like Domotex, which are characterised by a very high level of internationality on both sides, amongst

Sonia Wedell-Castellano adds, "Domotex thrives on the live experience. The shown products need to be experienced live on-site

in terms of their look and feel. As long as the global pandemic has us so firmly in its grip and a sufficient vaccination rate cannot be guaranteed worldwide, we cannot safely plan for the future with a physical event. Markets thrive on exchange. Our customers are urgently looking for participation formats, which allow them to get in touch with their customers, expand their existing network and access new contacts to present their products and innovations despite contact restrictions. Our answer to these needs is the Domotex Digital Day. A conference format, in which we will address current topics with top representatives from the industry on May the 20th, providing participants with an interactive business platform. As part of the conference, exhibitors will be able to present their products and innovations, embrace business and indulge into networking and connecting. The specific opportunities for participation will be available in our online store shortly." The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing trade show organisers worldwide to rethink. Numerous trade shows are currently taking place on a purely digital basis in response to the market participants' desire for complementary digital offerings. With the new format organisers, Deutsche Messe, acknowledge the importance of rapidly increasing online channels in the flooring industry. The digital event will therefore also put a special focus on digitalization. Domotex 2021 will take place as a digitalonly event on the 20th of May. The next hybrid Domotex is scheduled for January the 13th-16th, 2022, at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds.

Flooring February/March 2021

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Support the industry. Acknowledge excellence. Award Nominations This years awards will be for projects completed in Victoria from the 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2021.

2020/21 Award Categories • • • • • •

Education Health Care Residential (Apartment & Homes) Retail/Office Fitout Hospitality Polished Concrete

Submission For all nominations, please provide details of the project including, materials used and photo’s of the completed project. If your project is shortlisted, further details may be requested. Enter as many times as you can! All nominations must be sent to favawards@gmail.com by 3 July 2021 to be considered.

Save The Date. FAV’s Annual Gala Awards night is back & bigger than ever in 2021. When: 7th August 2021 Where: The Plaza Ballroom 191 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Dress Code: Black Tie Flooring Association of Victoria’s 5th annual awards night is an opportunity to celebrate the industry’s resilience and acknowledge flooring excellence. All enquiries for event sponsorship or to book membership tickets, please contact favawards@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible in 2021. Come celebrate with us Victoria!

favawards@gmail.com

www.fav.org.au

Advertisers Index Airstep Underlay

42, 43

Alternative Surfaces

Andersens Floor Covering

Australian Flooring Supplies Australian Select Timbers

44, 45 5

BBS Flooring Products

Berry Alloc

Classic Architectural Group

CleanSpace Technology

Inside Front Cover

Feltex 7 Floorcovering Association of Victoria

Floor Covering Institute of Australia

Floor Insure

Floorsafe Australia

Floorworld

12, 13

Forbo Flooring Systems

GMK Logistics

Godfrey Hirst

41,Inside Back Cover

Inspired Floorcoverings Kenbrock Flooring

15 9

Kerakoll 37 Laser Measure Australia

MJS Floorcoverings

Polivac International

Preference Floors

RFMS Australasia

53, 54

RLA Polymers Semco Surfaces

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