FFI 107 February 2020 by Media-Pact NV / FFI bvba

INTERNATIONAL trade journal f or impor t , expor t , dis tr ibution and lay ing of par que t , laminate, cor k f loor ing and r elated pr oduc t s

N° 107 Februar y 2020 - Price: €8 - Published 7 times a year - (Feb, March, May, July, Sept , Nov, Dec) Of fice of deliver y 9099 Ghent X , P911092, BC 31359 - Responsible Publisher: Filip De Ridder

Special: Poland

The concept of decking to clip

Review: Domotex Hannover (D)

Advertorial: Belgiqa (B) Special: Outdoor floors: wood & composite

Special: Who has handmachines for roughening up old tiles, scraping the screed,…

Special: Repairing substrates: who has the products for this purpose?

www.gradconcept.com

Making you r sanding experience better BONA EDGE UX

E XC EL L R E A EN T CH

CLOSER TO SANDING PERFECTION

The Bona Edge UX has an entirely unique and modern design, resulting in an extremely safe and user-friendly edger. The design of the sanding arm helps you reach all nooks and crannies and with its new LED technology, the visibility is outstanding. Furthermore, it comes prepared with a DCS connector among other smart features. With its optimized engine, the noise level is reduced to a minimum.

PERFORMANCE

HANDLING

SAFETY

– Bright LED technology

– Flexible handles

– Efficient dust pickup

– Handy sanding arm

– Measuring multimeter

– Dead man’s switch

– Optimized engine power

– Low noise level

– DCS prepared

Bona.com

Content INTERNATIONAL trade journal f or impor t , expor t , dis tr ibu tion and lay ing of par que t , laminate, cor k f loor ing and r elated pr oduc t s

Editorial

Special: Poland

The concept of decking to clip

Review: Domotex Hannover (D)

“There isn’t a specific standard for invisible fastening systems for terraces. And so, the key is to offer technical solutions yourself which surpass the standards of classic fitting. That’s precisely what we do.”

Advertorial: Belgiqa (B) Special: Outdoor floors: wood & composite

Special: Who has handmachines for roughening up old tiles, scraping the screed,…

Special: Repairing substrates: who has the products for this purpose?

www.gradconcept.com

Floor Forum International n° 107 February 2020 Photo Burger & Cie

4 Inside news 8 Advertorial Belgiqa (B) 10 Review Domotex Hannover (D) 35 Special The ecological footprint of the flooring sector 36 Advertorial Parador (D) 38 Special Outdoor floors: wood & composite 43 Special New trends in vinyl, LVT, and PVC floors 45 Special Who has adhesive for various screeds in

combination with floor heating? 48 Special Who has hand-machines for roughening up

old tiles, scraping the screed, and removing old carpet, tiles,adhesive residue, etc…? 50 Advertorial Progress Profiles (I) 52 Special Repairing substrates: who has the products for this

purpose? 54 Special Dispersion adhesives for LVT, PVC, and vinyl floors

The wooden decking and composite market is enjoying rapid growth and forecast to increase by 17% over the next five years. Moreover, the market is moving on several fronts. For instance, there has been the successful emergence of composite boards, which enable companies such as Burger & Cie to offer an alternative to wood. Paul Burger of Burger & Cie comments: ‘Our NEKKO composite is available in chestnut brown and grey. Since it’s in the classic co-extrusion segment, the price is comparable to that of a top quality wood specie.’ Yet there’s even more movement! Whilst most terraces are still fitted using the classic method, Burger & Cie believes that there is a growing interest in invisible fastening Paul Burger systems. Paul Burger continues, ‘Rapid fitting Burger & Cie and an exceptionally long lifespan are just a few of the benefits.’ The longer lifespan comes partly from the fact that the floorboards no longer come into contact with the support beams. There are fewer points of contact and therefore fewer points of wear and tear. He adds: ‘With a 30-year guarantee on the aluminium substructure and 10 to 50 years on the floorboards, our prices are still highly reasonable.’ The Grad concept that Burger offers makes it possible to take account of all configurations via the Grad 3D Software. There are five points for attention when planning and quantifying a project: the type of soil, the wood specie, the foot feeling, the total height of the decking, and the finishing touches. The simplicity of the concept means that all professionals (carpenters, parquet floor fitters, landscape specialist, swimming pool fitters, etc.) can cope with the fitting. Professionals who specialise solely in fitting terraces are quite rare because fitting a terrace is usually part of a wider project. Paul Burger concludes, ‘At Burger & Cie the “Research and Development Department” works daily to design new products, systems, and accessories to simplify and refine the fitting of terraces in order to raise customer satisfaction.’

56 Industry news 57 Special Poland 58 Product news Editing & advertisements FFI bvba PO BOX 29 9870 Olsene, Belgium Tel: +32 (0)9 385 80 40 Fax: +32 (0)9 385 88 85 sales@media-pact.com www.floor-forum.com Publisher Filip De Ridder

Subscriptions to Floor Forum International: Mail to info@media-pact.com

Lay-out: Be-able Communication www.be-able.be Production: Lowyck - Oostende

Advertising & subscriptions Adriana Dascalu info@media-pact.com Hilde De Ridder floorforum@telenet.be Filip De Ridder sales@media-pact.com Editors: Jean Paul Talbot, Ludwig Janssens, Filip De Ridder Jacques Legros

Translation: Michael Robinson www.glossa.be Floor Forum International is a publication of FFi bvba.

The copyright of Floor Forum International and the articles appearing herein are retained by the publisher. By agreeing to publication of an article in this journal, the author assigns to the publisher the irrevocable and exclusive right under Copyright law to collect charges due from third parties for copying said article and to undertake legal or other action for this purpose. Editorial and advertising copy in this issue have been carefully checked and Floor Forum International bvba cannot accept any responsibility for any errors.

∂ Inside news Floor Forum & Floor Forum International informs you the following official news we received on January 29th 2020: DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR announces show postponement : Dear Exhibitors and Visitors, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR Team has been monitoring the development of recent outbreak of the Coronavirus in several Chinese provinces. After studying and evaluating the announcements, guidance and news released by relevant national departments and in order to protect the health and safety of our exhibitors and visitors we regret to announce that DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2020, scheduled for 24th-26th of March, needs to be postponed to a later date! We will confirm the new dates as soon as possible after Chinese new year holidays.

Dinachoc

Thank you for your strong support and participation over the past 22 years. However, at this critical moment we are primarily concerned with your health and safety. Meanwhile we also want to secure the best results from the show to our participants! Thank you for your understanding! Your DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR Team

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR Asia's Hub for Flooring Finex Luxterior

24-26 March, 2020 Shanghai . China

domotexasiachinafloor.com

Dinachoc, the acoustic specialist: This means choosing for efficiency and quality with due regard for the environment. Dinachoc’s universal acoustic solution is specially adapted to most floor coverings and puts paid to noise by looking after your loved ones. The Dinachoc S801 underlay, which is the product of the circular economy, transforms used tyres into a useful raw material. With its A+ class, it takes its place amongst the most healthy solutions in the field of volatile organic compound emissions. The material retains its shape and quality and does not fall apart. It has a 50-year guarantee and yields a pleasant and powerful long-term solution via insulation with professional performance levels! Use Dinachoc C901 adhesive to optimise your floor installation. It is a mono-component hybrid and odourless adhesive, which contains no solvents, no isocyanates, and no formaldehyde and is also in class A+. It helps you give the floor a maximum lifespan and you also add an acoustic insulation of 3dB. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the freedom to live in your own interior. Dinachoc – 170 Rue de la Roquette, 75011 Paris – 07 83 02 03 14 - contact@dinachoc.com - www.dinachoc.fr -

Floor Forum International 107

FINEX Handcrafted Flooring is making big steps forward to get their brand known in Europe. Finex is specialised in the bespoke production in eastern europe of high-end oak wood flooring in wide plank, herringbone, chevron, decorative panels and tiles. Available in smooth brushed surfaces, or a beautiful shrunken ‘Wildwood’ surface. Finex has the best state-of-the-art European machines to produce complex patterns with very accurate measurements and almost zero tolerance! Perfect for chevrons, mansion weaves and tile patterns with a t&g connection all around and a micro-bevel for easy installation on site. Finex products have superior Silk Matt UV dried finishing in either oil, or lacquer and are perfectly suited for residential, commercial and hospitality applications and become regularly specified by architects and designers. A major USP of a bespoke production specialist: In one project you can combine and seamlessly blend different flooring patterns together, such as plank, chevron, panels and/or special tiles, all in one color and same profiling, perfectly matching each other! Please direct your enquiries and catalogue request to export@ finexfloors.com, or take a look at our instagram (luxterior_finexfloors) / facebook (luxterior_finexfloors) page. Finex is distributed by Luxterior BvBa in Belgium.

Futura Floors GmbH

We at Futura Floors GmbH work to increase the aspects of wellness and harmony throughout the world. We seek to bring these concepts to your living and work spaces through the provision of beautiful flooring. Our mission – providing the opportunity and inspiration to create organic natural spaces that bring harmony and wellbeing. For where there is wellbeing, there is happiness. In the world of flooring strong technical support is very important. Futura Floors, along with its sister company, manufactures solid oak planks and parquet. We also closely monitor the production of engineered flooring. Exotic and composite decking is also produced under the eye of our technical staff. Located in Hirschaid between Nuremberg and Bamberg, the group started working about 15 years ago. The factory employs over 150 people in sales, purchasing, production and storage. In 2015 our range was expanded with design vinyl floor tiles which simulate both traditional wood and trendy concrete designs. We have both FSC and EUTR certificates. Another priority for the company is a strong logistics system. From its main warehouse which covers more than 20,000 m2, Futura Floors supplies its customers across Europe using a fleet trucks. We can supply partners with own branding and tailor handmade products of all sizes to meet customers’ needs.

Futura Floors GmbH

From left: Christoph Bieringer Sales F, B, Lux. Juliet Sjoborg Managing Director Futura Floors and Sven Haase Senior Sales Manager Presentation of Christoph Bieringer Sales Belgium, Luxembourg, France at Futura Floors GmbH. Futura Floors with its own production of solid oak flooring and parquet also sells Engineered oak flooring, exotic and composite

∂ Inside news decking and designer vinyl. With a strong service-oriented focus and great logistics, Futura now delivers to B, F, and Lux as it expands internationally. Christoph Bieringer is responsible for sales in Belgium, Luxembourg and France for Futura Floors GmbH. Born in Saarland, he has extensive sales experience and has worked for various large companies worldwide including ABB. Call for a pricelist today! Contact tel. mobile +4915118860224 Mail: christoph.bieringer@futurafloors.de

Heinr. Krüger + Sohn GmbH + Co. KG (HKS) Davide Maglio, CEO of Avalon Wood Srl, it’s the new partner of HKS for Italy. He has a long experience in sales and consulting with resellers, contract and architect will bring his long experience for the growth of HKS also in Italy.

Miva Parket Miva is preparing to further optimize its strong position on the Belgian market and to significantly expand its increasing international share with the Belgiqa brand. The company signed an agreement with VG machines for the purchase of 4 brushing machines with 6 axes including a cross-cutting unit. This with the eye on installing new production lines. In 2020 they will also start the construction of a new (production) warehouse of 2000m² to expand both the capacity of the cladding and parquet division. Furthermore, there is a strong focus on innovation, they continue to innovate on burned parquet and cladding, weathered colors and aging techniques. A combination of these techniques must ensure exclusive high-end products.

Chêne de l’est

RENZO BORGONOVO

Renzo Borgonovo Srl gladly informs that, for the first time, will be attending the fair Holz-Handwerk, which will take place in Nuremberg, Germany, from the 18th to the 21st of March. At the stand 11.0-416 there will be present a functioning hot embossing machine, with our fully electrical heating system, and our new 2020 hot embossing patterns. Renzo Borgonovo Srl will be sharing the stand with its life-time partners FNT-Trabattoni Stampi (hot embossing rollers manufacturers) and De Stefani Valerio e C. Snc (producers of sanding machines), to present to each final customers a full picture of the finishing options available for the profile, parquet, and panel industry! For more information and free registration tickets, feel free to contact us at info@borgonovo.com !

Floor Forum International 107

A new TWO YEARS OLD Collection is proposed with a dozen aged, sawned, smoked finishes in engineered and solid plankflooring. We have created a new range of plankflooring with finishes that appear as they will be after two years in the light. A soft and velvety appearance with harmonious shades. This new process reveals the colour of the wood. All woods generally tend to change colour. Some darken, others lighten. This change is accentuated by their exposure to light. This range presents stabilized colours, as they appear after two years of exposure to light. Available in solid oak in 14 mm thick and 21/22 mm thick, also in engineered oak TOP 3,2/3,4 thickness +/- 14.4 mm, and in engineered oak TOP 4.5 in thickness +/- 15.7 mm in widths up to 220 mm.

A revolution in laminate

Advertorial

Belgiqa (B)

CUSTOM WORK ELEGANCE CRAFTSMANSHIP SUSTAINABILITY

100% BELGIAN CRAFTSMANSHIP Based on the growing demand for parquet with a unique look and finish, Belgiqa has developed engineered wood flooring characterised by its craftsmanship, elegance and custom work. Their specialty lies in the production of tailor made wooden floors that contribute to the uniqueness of each interior project.

Floor Forum International 107

JOINING FORCES 2020 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. After seven successful years, during which Belgiqa was mainly active in the Benelux, it now finds itself ready to focus entirely on the international market. A recent cooperation with two of its most capable partners - Miva Parket and Van Landschoot Hout - has made this possible. The joining of forces significantly increases Belgiqa’s production capacity, without having to compromise on quality or craftsmanship. From now on, Belgiqa will take on international challenges in partnership with these two experts. The three companies presented themselves together for the first time at Domotex Hannover 2020. An immediate succes that created many interesting opportunities.

TAILOR MADE WOODEN FLOORS All of Belgiqa’s woodworking is done in their own production centres in Belgium. A group of skilled craftsmen with a real passion for their product, work hard and diligently to produce Belgiqa’s custom made wooden floors. Their years of experience have resulted in an extensive knowledge of colouring and processing techniques, which allows them to deliver unique results to the client. We make whatever you desire. Whether you are looking for a specific length, width or type of wood: everything is custom made by Belgiqa’s craftsmen. And they do so with the greatest care, because it’s all in the details.

Get in touch! www.belgiqa.be / info@belgiqa.be / +32 499 90 26 47

Floor Forum International 107

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

VISITORS AT DOMOTEX 2020 LESS BUT HIGH-CLASS AND INTERNATIONAL A BUSINESS FORUM TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY

CMY

Booth Floor Forum International

When Domotex started in 1989, the world immediately enjoyed the luxury of a revolutionary concept. For the first time in history, industrial flooring manufacturers stood side by side with hand-made carpet producers. This was a bold move for the carpet market and for the flooring industry in general. The very latest collections, new materials, modern designs, trends, and traditions were all on show at one event which claimed to cover the entire industry. Now, after 32 shows, that claim looks all the more justified, even though most exhibitors report ever falling numbers of visitors.

International

More success figures

Sonia Wedell-Castellano, global director of Domotex commented: ‘We were pleasantly surprised by the positive attitude of the visitors and the spirit in which they came. The attendance shows a growing market concentration. In particular, the increase in the “weight” of the visitors is a compliment and sends out positive signals for the growth of the business in 2020. Over 90% of visitors were real decision-makers, most

The latest Domotex Hannover took place from 10 to 13 January 2020 inclusive. The show yet again proved itself as the top meeting place for players from the carpet and flooring industries worldwide. Yet again, Domotex was the ideal springboard for both technological and product innovations.

Floor Forum International 107

The visitors numbered no fewer than 35,000, with about 70% of them from abroad. Over 14,000 exhibitors from more than 60 countries displayed new products, systems, and solutions. This confirmed the international character of Domotex all the more. Of the visitors, who generally stayed for longer than one day, 60% came from Europe, 25% from Asia, and 10% from the United States. The rest came from Africa and Australia. Dr Andreas Gruchow, managing board manager of the Deutsche Messe, expressed his delight with those figures at the end.

High-class visitors

Designed to impress. • Individually hand-crafted planks • Choice of up to 6 widths • Quick and easy to install • Client-ready within 24 hours • Suitable for underfloor heating

• Splash proof and easy to maintain • 100% environmentally friendly • Zero emissions • Tested and certified by International bodies

FORESTRY TIMBER www.forestrytimber.com

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

of them in top management. It was great to hear many of them say that they plan to return in 2021.’

The players have their say There are clearly different criteria for being satisfied or dissatisfied with the show and especially with regard to the visitors. Stafano Hali Tekstil from the Turkish company Hakan Dinc testified: ‘Our concern is not the high attendance of visitors, but rather the right types of visitors.’ Trends scout Andrés Jobet from Piso Urbano Alfombras in Santiago (Chile) expressed a different criterion: ‘I decided to come to Domotex because this is where I can see what’s happening on the global market and on that basis I can make the right choices for our clients.’ Vartian Carpets from Vienna had been absent from Domotex for over five years, but this year they returned as an exhibitor. Owner Arman J. Vartian said: ‘It looks as if Domotex is on the right track. The stands are more attractive and inviting and the entire concept provides clear support for the industry. Anke Hattingh, marketing director of Mapei in Germany, praised the vast diversity as regards stands whereby the entire show became a source of inspiration. Olivier Bossuyt, sales director of the IVC group in Avelgem, Belgium, commented: ‘After a two-year absence, we decided to go to the show because the international scope of Domotex enables us to meet some attractive trading partners.’

a high number of completely new faces visited the stand. He ascribed this to the new approach and, in particular, the new layout which was launched in 2020. He said, ‘The new arrangement has resulted in more new clients and contacts than in previous years and we can only welcome that. We regard Domotex as far and away the most important show. This view is shared by Mico Schäpe, product manager of LVT at the German company JAB Teppiche. Heinz Anstoetz from KG called his visit a ‘must’. He spends several days at the show each year to meet existing and potential suppliers and to get a feel for new opportunities. Michael Massmann, national sales manager and vice-president of Textile Trading Group Winter Park (USA), uses Domotex mainly to find new contacts. He comments: ‘We’re always looking to develop longterm relations and at the same time deepen and maintain our existing partnerships. We’ve been visiting Domotex since our Formation three years ago and nothing will change that.’

Theme 2020: ATMYSPHERE As participants entered Hall 8, they were engulfed at once in a sphere designed to create the main theme. They saw a giant-size horizon developed into a textile onto which natural scenes such as trees and water were projected and combined with architectural images in an atmospheric light show.

New contacts

A multicoloured expedition

The conclusion from the visitor profile analysis was that 44% of visitors went to Domotex to establish new contacts. Fred T. Keller, marketing director of Theo Keller GmbH from Germany, reported that

This image immediately set the tone for Framing Trends, which itself formed an imaginary walk along installations inspired by the main theme: ATMYSPHERE. The latter, in turn, formed a multicoloured

CHIMIVER COMMITMENT TOWARDS THE ENVIRONMENT We create products to be used under and on the floor... for any type of floors... INNOVATION

Filling technology for wood flooring MACHINED FILLING OF KNOTS IN PARQUET before

after

WE RESEARCH AND DEVELOP ECOLOGICAL, ECO-SUSTAINABLE AND CERTIFIED PRODUCTS

ECO-SUSTAINABILITY WE USE RECYCLED PACKAGING FOR REDUCING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

ECOLOGY WE CHOOSE RENEWABLE RAW MATERIALS FROM NATURAL RESOURCES

PROTECTION WE PROTECT ALL PERSONS FROM THE APPLICATOR TO THE END USER KEEPING THE ENVIRONMENT MORE SAFE AND MORE LIVABLE

CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE. CHOOSE CHIMIVER CHIMIVER PANSERI S.p.A. PONTIDA (BG) - ITALY - chimiver.com

Floor Forum International 107

CSP Engineering bvba Stenehei 30/10 B-2480 Dessel (Belgium)

Tel: +32 14 37 77 52 info@csp-engineering.com www.csp-engineering.com

allefreiheit.de

ASPECTA™ CONTOURS: CHOOSE YOUR SHAPE! ASPECTA™ CONTOURS collection: a conceptual, boutique-style collection of large-scaled patterned flooring with superb design quality built on the foundation of the LVT leader’s ISOCORE Technology™. ASPECTA™ CONTOURS, 4 collections available in 8 colors. This collection consists of the following shapes: “Chantilly”, “Chambord”, “Versailles” and “Tarascon”.

T: E: W:

+31 (0)88 - 166 25 00 info@aspectaflooring.com www.aspectaflooring.com

ASPECTA™ CONTOURS - Chambord, Color: Naturel #6616739X

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

expedition amongst special topics such as health and wellness, naturalness, sustainability, and recycling. In the centre of the hall there was a stage for the Talks programme and a forum area for creative dialogues and exchanges. This was where architects, interior designers, and influencers came together to discuss new products, news, and key themes related to the main theme. It was also the departure point for the show’s discovery tours led by top class architects. Visitors were taken on a tour of discovery through individual displays, the ‘frames’ on which the show was built. These had four zones: Art & Interaction, NOW Thinkers, Flooring Spaces, and the new Contract Frames.

Welcomed by everyone Sonia Wedell Castellano could not contain her enthusiasm: ‘I’m also delighted with how enthusiastically our exhibitors embraced the keynote theme of ATMYSPHERE, as well as with the success of the revamped “Treffpunkt Handwerk” skilled trades hub and the volume of exhibitors who have indicated they will be back in 2021.’ Yet that enthusiasm about the theme extended beyond the organisers to the exhibitors as well. Bernhard Reinkemeier, CEO of Reinkemeier Rietberg which is based in Rietberg, Germany, felt that the theme was the ‘perfect match’ for the objectives of his company: ‘We most certainly welcome the them as well as the surrounding elements which were all attractive and helped us to achieve our objectives.’ From the theme of 2020, Sonia Wedell-Castellano is already looking ahead to the next Domotex. She commented: ‘The keynote theme perfectly reflected the spirit of the times, and its significance was clear to see throughout the halls. We’re already busy exploring ways of featuring sustainability to

even greater advantage at DOMOTEX 2021. I’m also very much looking forward to teaming up with the show's players from the business community and the skilled trades so as to generate even more benefit for the industry and its clientele next year.’

Floor Forum and Floor Forum International ready!

In keeping with tradition, your favourite trade journal also had a stand at Domotex. We met our clients, readers, and other interested parties there. An extra novelty for this show was that a number of renowned Belgian players could be seen side by side at Domotex. Obviously, Floor Forum also formed part of that ‘block’, together with Abetech, B-Fix, CSP Engineering, and Denderwood, each with their own personally designed stand. That proved to be a big hit. To visit the stand, the visitors had to go to Hall 13. However, it was virtually impossible for them to look for stand E22 because the whole area was a buzz of activity. And so, it was no surprise that the supply of Leffe was completely exhausted after the third day. After all, the stand of Floor Forum and Floor Forum International was once again the ideal spot for an informal chat and building business relations. Amongst other things, visitors to the stand acquainted themselves with our various publications (the Franco-Benelux and international ones). As always, the stand had a special floor, fitted this time by Berry Alloc. The chosen design was ‘Gyant XL Light Natural’. This laminate floor was designed as a ‘mix ‘n match’: the 2.03m planks comprised three

THE ULTIMATE INVISIBLE FINISH

FIRST

product for woodflooring

in OPEN INNOVATION with

35% BIO-BASED CONTENT

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EXCELLENT STAIN & SCRATCH RESISTANCE

Tel. +32 (0)51 30 11 40 - info@ciranova.be – www.ciranova.eu

Floor Forum International 107

Abetech different widths (155, 190, and 241mm), which can be combined. The planks came from the ‘Glorious collection’. The laminate floor came perfectly into its own in the stand until the very last day.

Abetech Abrasifs returned home from Domotex Hannover 2020 with great satisfaction. Apart from welcoming its existing clients, Abetech Abrasifs were aiming to expand their client network. This 2020 show was a huge success in terms of the quality of the visitors. They wish to thank all visitors to their stand. They look forward to developing solid collaboration with their new clients as well as continuing to work with their existing loyal clients. Abetech Abrasifs presented its high-quality sanding machines and abrasives at the show. The Belgian Block formed an area where experts from five companies from ‘the low country’ provided some Belgian know-how. They look forward to meeting again at the 2021 show!

Custom-made

LOFT PRO

PARQUET OPÉRA Chevron Oak rustic/campagne A distressed aspect on the surface and slight black patina Grade : 16 x 90 x 500 mm Top layer : 4,5 mm Varnish colourless Tongue & Groove - Square edge Semi-solid wood flooring (Birch plywood base)

www.designparquet.com Floor Forum International 107

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

Amorim Cork Flooring

We’re Made Of” branding. Once visitors entered the exhibition, they noticed the HMTX family of brands, which each had their own areas for display. Metroflor, Teknoflor and Aspecta were among the brands recognized. HMTX Industries is a global new materials flooring company and a leader in LVT manufacturing whose brands service a diverse cross-section of the construction marketplace. Headquartered in Norwalk, CT, and doing business in more than 40 countries around the world.

Auer Metallprofile

Amorim Cork Flooring presented at Domotex, the new Cork Pure Signature collection. The company continues to expand its portfolio of Amorim WISE solutions which are all cork based, with recycled materials and have a remarkable negative carbon footprint. The possibility to create tailor-made patterns, with more than 17 000 combinations, it’s one of the many benefits of the Cork Pure Signature range. Clients can now create different designs, by choosing between 17 natural cork veneers and combining them with the 31 colors available, different finishes, dimensions and thicknesses. Domotex was also be the main stage for the launch of a digital application that allows for a more interactive experience of this concept and for the introduction of Wicanders Wood Resist Eco, another novelty. This solution, with a focus on sustainability, offers 25 wood visuals in a product that is completely PVC free and can be installed in high traffic areas (class of use 33). During Domotex Amorim also launched the Stone Concept, a new line from Amorim Cork Flooring where the stone visuals are highlighted, with 12 design options, available in 3 different technical solutions.

Aspecta

Auer Metallprofile presented its new profiles 2020 at Domotex in Hanover. To complement their existing product range, the 30x30x1.9 mm corner protection angle was added as an aluminum press profile and also 2 new insert profiles made of aluminum for 3 and 5 mm coverings with a 44 mm long nose for covering downwards. For 3 mm floorings, Auer Metallprofile now also offers a 28x3 mm end profile for high loads for full-surface support on the substrates. Furthermore, the Auer Metallprofile has launched a new combination angle, which can be covered with a 50 mm wide anti-slip insert and in addition, according to DIN 18040-2 "Barrier-free construction", the riser can also be glued with a 23 mm insert to improve its visibility. Auer Metallprofile offers you individual solutions for your special on-site situation, be it miter cuts, length cuts, profile bends or other anodized or RAL colors. Everything beyond the catalog range on request.

Berti Pavimenti Legno

HTMX Industries at Domotex 2020 HMTX Industries showcased its family of companies at Domotex 2020, the world’s flagship trade event for floor coverings, held Friday, January 10 – Monday, January 13 in Hannover, Germany. The HMTX exhibit presented two stories totaling 380 square meters. The theme, “What We’re Made Of - People, Earth, Design and Technology”, showcased the family of brands under the HMTX umbrella, which service a diverse cross-section of resilient flooring in the construction marketplace. Visitors met HMTX at the entrances to the Deutsche Messe venue, where super-scale advertising towers and cubes will feature “What

Floor Forum International 107

LASER INLAYS Pattern Floor We want to inspire hundreds of visitors with a sense of innovation and design made in Italy. Thanks the experience gained in our three generations we found out the perfect balance between innovation and design, tradition and art, past and contemporaneity able to enhance the living space celebrating its essence

by creating a connection with the surrounding landscape. Handcraft and technology, classical and contemporary for charming contrast.

BLANCHON

B-FIX

The B-Fix-team returned home from Domotex Hannover 2020 full of enthusiasm. During the show, apart from welcoming its existing clients, B-Fix also stressed a desire to expand its network of dealers. This edition developed into a grand cru with impressive quality contacts. This was more than likely the result of careful preparation and several years of attending trade fairs. Domotex Hannover also gave B-Fix the opportunity to present B-Fix Air. This new ventilation solution makes it possible to disconnect the structure and the wooden floor from each other and ventilate the whole unit. You will find more information on their web site.

THE EXPERT IN SUPERIOR WOOD FLOOR FINISHES From January 10 to 13, during Domotex trade fair in Hanover, Blanchon hosted visitors from all over the world on its 90 square meters booth dedicated to its wood floor finishes expertise. Blanchon Industry once again seduced with its cutting-edge solutions combining technical performance and economic requirements. Our bestsellers have been highlighted with the Original Wood Environment and the Intensiv lacquer, two key products with high quality characteristics. The Renovation Lacquer still seduced: directly 1 coat for a renovation without sanding on wood floor, PVC or laminate. The 2020 edition was a new opportunity to demonstrate the strong commitments of the Blanchon Group for sustainable and respectful products. We would like to thank our clients for visiting the Blanchon booth during Domotex 2020!

24 – 26 MARCH HALL E1 | BOOTH H01

KINGFORESTS

The DevoNatural range of professional parquet floor products meets the highest standards when it comes to treating parquet floors.

Esta Parket Partner in China

It is all about quality without compromise, developing products using the best raw materials and cutting-edge technologies. DevoNatural is available in original colours and contemporary finishes, which are fully in harmony with the latest trends in interior design.

You want to play on your parquet ﬂoor ? PROFESSIONAL PARQUET PRODUCTS

Makes it possible ! Discover the DevoNatural product range :

www.devonatural.be/en/ DEVOMAT IS SEEKING INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS FOR ITS “DEVONATURAL“ BRAND

Devomat Industries PLC - Florent Geversstraat 31 - B-2650 Edegem - Belgium T +32 03 450 94 70 - F +32 03 457 94 24 - info@devomat.be - www.devomat.be

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Ciranova

CSP Engineering

CIRANOVA looks back at a successful edition of Domotex Hannover. CIRANOVA showcased this year their unique stains and natural finishes and presented their new PLUS RANGE, developed in open innovation with DSM. The new PLUS range is an improved range of products for the ultimate invisible finishing of your indoor wood. For the PLUS range, a Decovery biobased self-matting resin is used which delivers excellent performance, ensures a safer & healthier environment and reduces the carbon footprint. This ultra self-matting flooring resin used in these products, sets the standard for natural looking floors with the lowest gloss achievable and ultimate protection with excellent stain & scratch resistance.

CSP Engineering looks back with satisfaction on Domotex. The exhibition attracted maybe not a massive number of visitors, it was once again the ideal opportunity to meet relations and clients and to enforce connections. The interest of the visitors was mainly focused on the new types of filling machines with PAR-Filler® Mono and PARFiller® Duplex. The corresponding possible combinations of new feeding- and stacking systems allow to improve the production process even more and to optimize the ergonomics of the operator. Also on the topic of the wood filler CosmetiWood®, the Belgian machine constructor is in permanent evolution in order to realise a fast return of investment on the filling machines. Furthermore the PAR-Duo FX was

Decking Oil

WOODCARE SINCE 1926

• • • • •

Basic treatment and maintenance of decking wood. Enhances the color and structure of the wood. Provides excellent UV protection. Available in a solvent and a waterborne version. Can be delivered in many different colors, some as standard and others require a quantity of minimum 100 liters.

Contact Torben Olsen Tel. +45 40 33 02 84 for further information. Esbjerg Farve- & Lakfabrik A/S, DK-6700 Esbjerg Tel. 75 12 86 00, www.esbjergpaints.com.

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presented, a gluing line with cold PVA glue for pressing wooden flooring boards with fixed length. This new installation completes the already extensive range of CSP Engineering. This regular appears certainly again on a future edition !

Corkart At Domotex Hannover 2020 Corkart announced the New SPC factory in Europe and we were thrilled with all the interest, support and trust that our visitors and clients showed in this novelty! Corkart also promoted the new Retail Collections – 10 vinyl collections specially planned to satisfy the retailers needs and communicated Contract Collection with a world of possibilities to match the A&D community projects. Corkart had the opportunity to announce the SPC products and Design Concept through our partnership with the MMFA. At the event we had the pleasure of meeting many customers and friends, had meetings to define the great year of 2020 and celebrated partnerships that will make this year full of news and big projects. Thank you to everybody that visited us, it was a pleasure seeing you all and we appreciated your enthusiasm in our products. You are welcome to visit our website on www.corkart.pt and if you need to contact us send an email to info@corkart.pt

Chêne de l’est

French hardwood flooring manufacturer Chêne de l’est successful at DOMOTEX We enjoyed presenting our Chêne de l’est plank flooring and discussing project needs and requirements. With many visitors it was a very positive and inspiring show days. It was a successful edition. We presenting our two new engineered oak plankflooring with a top layer in classes 31 and 33. Those new TOPs are available in all our collections at a very interesting price. We remind you that Chêne de l'est guarantees an eco-responsible approach, our wood comes from the surrounding forests and is PEFC certified, from sustainably managed forests. Our floors are produced according to French standards and meet the required performance. Labelled A+ for all our finished floors, Real Wood, and CE standard. We provide advice and maintenance products to guarantee the durability of your parquet floor.

Decospan Wood beats vinyl, a statement that did not go unnoticed Domotex was an important kick-off for the expert in Wood Solutions. One thing is sure, the rebranded Parky exceeded expectations. Wood beats vinyl. That statement could be read on a white giant cube that pulled visitors into the Parky revolution. Inside, Domotex briefly turned yellow and you read the story of the renewed, sustainable veneer flooring. The secret? The invisible 8-layer varnish called

Titanium. This makes the top layer so strong and water-resistant that Parky claims its place in class 33. The super matt finish and new brush technique allow you to feel the natural grains and patterns of the wood. Decospan clearly continues to innovate and invest. In doing so, Cabbani, the à la carte parquet, launched a third collection: Cabbani Bohemia. This collection is the result of Decospan and ESCO joining forces. By acquiring the Czech company, Decospan is taking the business to the next level and gains ground in its range of Wood Solutions.

Denderwood

Denderwood and its sister companies DDW Hardwoods & MarQuise Forest Products were present at Domotex. This year the JAVA TECK range was highlighted with in particular the 3D wall, the ship deck flooring with Sika rubber and the clip decking. Other products are appearing such as exotic wooden tiles for pedestals, resorcinol glued laminated panels for outdoor use and some mouldings. And as usual, Denderwood continues to promote PADOUK wood, which it has imported for the past 20 years. Convinced of the advantages of this specie, you can find various products at the importer warehouse: terraces, cladding, paneling, floorings and laminated scantlings. The Padouk Flex cladding for vertical installation which plays on the widths has just been highlighted. Those who are open to new ideas have found new solutions or alternatives in different items. For those who did not have the opportunity to visit the fair, no problem! Contact us at info@ denderwood.com.

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Design Parquet

- special designs: Hexagonal, squares, cube seen in perspective - Alpine-style planks “Chalet” & Chevron “Opéra” with distressed look - entry-level exotic and hardwood flooring: Iroko, Merbau, thermo Ash and more!

Estaparket

Premium parquet à la carte for wood flooring specialists French company Design Parquet has been producing engineered and solid wood flooring for twenty years. In that time, they have built up a strong reputation with both innovative and classic products and have been the preferred suppliers for prestige projects in France and at international level. This year the manufacturer has displayed its knowhow as a solution maker. The ROC Varnish for High traffic has gained 4 new colours. This varnish developed for commercial areas (shopping malls, restaurants, hotel lobby…) has a performance of more than 20 000 turns of Taber test. Design Parquet is now able to offer 4 of the most popular colours in Oiled treatment as well as varnish or Roc varnish. Custom-made parquet. Design Parquet has presented its project references and new products:

The show was very busy for Estaparket team. We have presented more than 25 new decors, all mainly with special 5% gloss coating system. Customers have especially liked our new Ash collection that they called Unique and “ Like nothing else on the market”. We have also presented new wider sizes for our Herringbone products and presented Chevron pattern. The colors trend has clearly moved from grey to beige and white/natural shades. Estaparket also presented products with thinner top layer and short length, oriented mainly for projects.

A KUR AT LE GROUP MEMBER

Your partner for walland floor coverings

INDO

STRONG SPC

www.hwzi.ch 20

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Esprit du Parquet On Domotex 2020 Esprit De Parquet was able to surprise (make a difference) by capitalizing (?) on creative upcycled floors on the one hand, by giving 200 year old elm doors a better life as a premium floor, and by including figurative contemporary art into its latest parquet creations. The 4 collections on display – aged by nature and made of selected French Oak – are offered in wide range of color shades, ranging from Cameo browns to organic inspired naturals and lighter colors. Esprit Du Parquet, as editor and creator of avant-garde parquet floors is pleased to offer her know-how and creativity for customers and flooring professionals and is herein (?) supported by her team based in Belgium and France. For more details, please contact info@espritduparquet.com.

Photo – Esprit du Parquet

Capacity of over 300,000sq.m.per year. 60% is exported globally. Customers in Europe, Asia and North America. Our product range features engineered hardwood floors in the form of planks, strips, pattern flooring such as chevron and herringbone, panel pattern floors such as Versailles, pattern wooden tiles.

Luxterior BvBa, Belgium +32 1 198 81 60 export@finexfloors.com 21 Floor Forum International 107

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Eurotec

impression-displays, we made it easy to get a good idea on how the Floorservice products could be used in any interior, this year based on the trends of 2020. The alternative to smoking Two new products that we have introduced are the Prime Smoke and the Prime Stain Smoke. These products give the wood a smoked effect without having to use ammonia! Prime Old Brown Another new Floorservice product is the Prime Old Brown. This reaction stain is available in 3 variants and gives the wood a characteristic "old brown" color. The above products are intended for industrial processing. Untreated look Floorservice Nature Protect 2K gives the wood an untreated look. Suitable for both manual and industrial application.

FAXE

From 10 to 13 January 2020, Domotex, the world fair for carpets and floor coverings, opened its doors in Hannover. Among the 1,400 exhibitors, Eurotec GmbH also presented its extensive range of products from the field of deck construction. The highlight of the Eurotec booth was the self-made patio pattern, consisting of a combination of decking boards and stone decks. Eurotec's own products were used to demonstrate the different variations of stone and wooden decks. Eurotec welcomed international experts of the decking and horticulture industry from different countries and could convince of quality and know-how by the live presentation of the decking pattern.

Floorservice

Thank you to DOMOTEX for yet another excellent exhibition. As always, being back was a real pleasure. FAXE experienced a large and genuine interest in our exhibition stand of wood care products, and especially our wood treatment demonstrations was a success with a lot of people in our booth. Throughout the day, our wood care experts demonstrated lye products, showcasing how to transform plain oak wood floors to beautiful, grey oak or golden brown â&#x20AC;&#x153;smoke effectâ&#x20AC;? oak. Should you wish to receive information on lye products or other products from the extensive FAXE range of wood care products, please do not hesitate to contact Sales Manager Torben Olsen on +45 4033 0283 or to@esbjergpaints.dk. You are also most welcome to visit our website on www.faxewoodcare.com

Finex Luxterior

During the Domotex show in Hannover, Overmat showed a number of new collections of existing Floorservice products. By use of

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FLOORING for your BUSINESS ONE OF 17 FLORIAN GROUP COMPANIES

STRENGTH IS OUR RAW MATERIAL INTEGRATED SUPPLY CHAIN

CONTRACT AND DESIGN

CONTINUOUS RESEARCH AND PRODUCTION PROCESS CERTIFICATION

TARGET MARKETS PARQUET INDUSTRIES LARGE-SCALE RETAIL DISTRIBUTION

UNFINISHED

MADE IN ITALY PRODUCT ENTIRELY MADE IN OUR TREVISO PREMISES

ATTENTION TO SUSTAINABILITY

FINISHED

c.florian@florianinc.com - sales.floor@florianinc.com - www.florianinc.com ITALIA

HRVATSKA

MAGYARORSZÁG

FRANCE

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

FINEX Handcrafted Flooring – a rising star for high-end bespoke wood flooring manufacturing was new at Domotex. Finex was overwhelmed by the attention they got from a varied international crowd on their booth. The exciting new designs in their shrunk Wildwood collection available in Plank, Herringbone, Chevron, Panels & Tiles were a true novelty. Also the tile patterns for floor and wall were hot! All 3 experienced Sales Agents of Finex did draw attention from their longtime network of core industry players. Visitors from Europe and all other continents were very excited with the designs and possibilities for bespoke solutions. With their cnc machine and other state-of-theart European machines Finex can produce perfectly calibrated complex patterns with very accurate measurements and almost zero tolerance! Perfect for chevrons, mansion weaves and tile patterns with a t&g connection all around and a micro-bevel for easy installation on site. The outlooks are very promising. Global brand distribution is coordinated out of Belgium by Luxterior BVBA, with warehousing, finishing possibilities and logistics at Mapo Group Floor Finishing.

Forestry Timber At Domotex 2020 Forestry Timber launched 60 new colours to our already extensive colour range in Ash, Western European Oak and Tasmanian Oak. We also took the opportunity to launch our newest innovation in engineered flooring – our Heritage Collection which is designed to reflect the beauty and character of 18th century reclaimed French Oak planks. Each plank is aged using natural oxidation processes working with the tannins in the oak. We ensure that all our

flooring is 100% environmentally friendly with zero emissions. As anticipated, our customers were interested in our extensive colour and pattern variations on display. The vintage retro look of our new Heritage Collection, as well as the sleek minimalist look and feel found in our Tasmanian Oak, were the focus of many conversations. This year we also showcased a very eye-catching woven floor called Casino, consisting of three contrasting colours within a hexagonal pattern. This highlights the creative talent and ability of our craftsman. Client engagement was good with current and new clients from all over the world – here's to another successful year of 2020!

Futura Floors GmbH

100%

WATERPROOF SKIRTING FROM SELITSTYLE® Thank you for your visit during Domotex! Futura Floors GmbH has gone green. We have moved toward more focus on natural materials and have included this philosophy in our new logo. The symbol of the company shows the rings of the log which transform into the stunning plank ready for your home or office. For more than 15 years Futura Floors in Germany, and its sister company with own production unit and warehouse, have been on the market. We have learned, we have developed and we love our natural floors, because: “Solid floors are in our DNA! “We have your floor and your accessories!” Our objective is to build long term strong partnerships with our customers. Happy partners mean happy customers, a Win-Win for all. Our mission is to give everyone the opportunity and inspiration to create organic natural spaces that bring harmony and well being. We manufacture and supply solid wood flooring, mosaic and industrial parquet, multilayer parquet, decking planks for outdoor and luxury design vinyl flooring.

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FN Neuhofer

your floor. Products such as Oak Relic, Oak Helix, Oak Fosse, Oak Eolith, Oak Hierba and many others were exhibited. For enquiry, contact www.mikasafloors.com.

Heinr. Krüger + Sohn

Neuhofer presents its innovative “FN smart e-shop” When it comes to the most innovative new products in the industry, there was no missing Neuhofer’s impressive stand at this year’s Domotex. Internationally renowned for innovation, the Austrian family-owned company was able to amaze and win visitors over once more with its customer-oriented solutions and ideas. The digital highlight was the launch of its innovative “FN Neuhofer smart e-shop”. Using a PC, tablet or smartphone, and in just a few steps, this e-shop allows the business (and customers via its website) to individually design skirtings, floor profiles, wall panels and floors, and to arrange for production. The generously designed stand with a total display area of almost 290 m² invited visitors to discover and experience all of Neuhofer’s new products as well as its established product range. Access to the impressively staged Innovation Centre was only available to visitors with an invitation, or after an introduction from the company’s attractive hostesses.

Greenlam Industries

Heinr. Krüger + Sohn (HKS) based in Münster, Germany is a frequenter on Domotex in Hannover. This year the team around export manager Christoph Feldbrügge presented the premium lines „Krügers“ and „manufaktur deluxe“ produced in Europe and a brand new range of Rigid / SPC Vinyl. The highlight and eye-catcher on the attractive booth was a chessboard lookalike floor made from wooden tiles. For this HKS installed wooden tiles with invisible oil and with smoked through top layer. The range „Krügers“ is from now available not only smoked but

Strong contacts. Clever Technology.

Prinz® NEW PRODUCTS 2020

Greenlam Industries takes the décor quotient up a notch yet again, at DOMOTEX 2020. Mikasa engineered wood floors from the house of Greenlam Industries Ltd. was the only Indian flooring brand to be present there. Mikasa showcased their latest collection of European colours, along with their unique staircase solution. Some of the most popular collections, such as, Herringbone and Chevron were also on display. The criss-cross chevron pattern on your floors with the Herringbone is basically placing the planks at a 90-degree angle to each other to get a weave like pattern. Coming to Mikasa’s unique staircase solution, it consists of stair board and stair nose, which are used when your floor reaches a step down. With a frame to every plank, create a perfect end to every step in your staircase. Mikasa also comes in an array of matching underlays, skirting and profiles to complement

Among the innovations are a flexible expansion joint system, border joint profiles, inner and outer edges for wall coverings and numerous other types of profile. Further designs and internal and external

profiles have been added to the range of aluminium skirting boards. Prinz is also presenting new metallic decors in Hanover in January; these were already successfully introduced to a large group of customers in the autumn.

www.carlprinz.de

Visit www.floor-forum.com

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also in a smoked through version. The new range of Rigid / SPC offers 8 different decors in Wear classes 23/32 (wear layer 0.3 mm) and 33/42 (wear layer 0.5 mm). The elements have a Unilin fold down click system and noise reducing foam underneath. Dimensions are 5.2 x 1220 x 180 mm.

HWZ International

stoneware and stone of any shape and size, which has distinguished itself for its versatility and simplicity of installation. Rail System is composed of aluminium joists hooked on specific height adjustable supports and it is the last innovation of PEDESTAL LINE, a complete system to realize outdoor raised floors. Top Rail AS heads, with a 120 mm diameter, slide above the joists holding the flooring. The use of PEDESTAL LINE allows to reduce times, costs, structural loads and permit at the same time the application of any finishes on the walking floor. Moreover, all used materials are recycled and recyclable, in confirmation of Impertek’s real concern for the environment.

Janser

The innovative Swiss company with global reach and vision HWZ International looks back on a successful Domotex 2020. The somewhat different booth of the surface experts from Switzerland was a hot meeting place for the entire industry. Together with our long-standing partners, we were able to make new plans for the coming years and hold exclusive product range discussions. The outstanding concept of the booth with a focus on wall covering solutions was very well received by a large selection of international dealers and partners. Especially Indo's precious wood wall coverings and the sliding doors of Indo’s Barndoor, which were visually very present, stood out as eye-catchers and brought many partners to new business ideas. Accompanying the classic novelties in the floor and wall segment, we displayed our efforts and answers in the big trends of healthy livinig & sustainable flooring and wall solutions. HWZ International would like to thank the visitors of the Domotex Hannover for the exciting exchange and the good discussions.

Impertek Rail system undisputed protagonist at Domotex Exihibition in Hannover For the eighth consecutive year Impertek opened the exhibition season with Domotex in Hannover: international stage dedicated to flooring, which in 2020’s edition puts the spotlight on decking outdoor floors. The undisputed protagonist was the Rail System: a single solution proposed by Impertek to lay decking, ceramic,

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Janser introduced during DOMOTEX a wide range of new equipment for the flooring industry. For the subfloor preparation, a new range of grinding machines in 230 V or 400 V was presented as well as a unique mixing station for up to 100 litres of compound. For installations of PVC/LINO Janser presented a new battery operated grooving machine as well as the TRI-CUT a hand cutting tool suitable for double-cut, wall/ edge trimming and strip-cutting. Ionisation for the containment and collection of dust on job sites was of great interest to most visitors. Janser introduced two sizes of Ion-Boxes, which are sending out ozone free charge reducing dust in entire rooms by up to 95%.

Lamett

Outstanding at Domotex 2020 Every year we look forward to Lamett's stand at Domotex. Also this year, the parquet specialist managed to stand out and take the visitor into the world of wooden floors and ParquetVinyl. Deeply brushed parquet collections that maintain the perfect balance

between aesthetics and technology were able to attract attention like no other. With new 'invisible' finishes, Lamett allows the beauty of the wood to speak for 100%. Three new collections of ParquetVinyl in 13 subtle shades were presented at Domotex for the first time. Striking is the integrated subfloor, which offers absolute added value acoustically and guarantees an even easier installation. With herringbone collections in both wooden floor and ParquetVinyl, the European player once again shows that it perfectly understands the trends and needs of 2020... and is ready for the future. There was a lot of interest in the 'innovation corner': projects we will certainly hear about in the future.

LÄGLER

composite material and allow the company to meet its international clients and meet new customers and wholesaler. Visit www.novowood.it website and discover the Italian WPC manufacturer news.

LOBA

Focuses on new textures On January 10th, just in time for the start of DOMOTEX 2020, LÄGLER revealed the secret of its new developments. "With the brushing discs for the TRIO and the new paddle system for the HUMMEL® we were able to strike a double-score with our customers", Roland Schleif, Head of International Sales, was pleased to report. With the new brushing discs, LÄGLER customers are expanding the range of capabilities on the TRIO. Wooden floors can now also be textured in just one working step. There are three different brushing sets available - Nylon, brass or stainless steel – which can be selected depending on the type of wood. "As a gift for our customers, this year the sets will be delivered in a convenient systainer with no extra charge", explained Roland Schleif. As from January 1st, the classic among the belt sanding machines is now equipped with a newly developed and robust paddle system. The ergonomic paddle lever, together with the adjustable quick lift plate and the larger ball-head, provide a completely new sanding experience. This system allows a secure fixing and significantly faster separation of the upper and lower parts of the rod. For machines built after 2003, it is possible to retrofit either the entire system or only the paddle lever. "Everyone who tested the new system at our booth was impressed," recalled Roland Schleif.

NOVOWOOD: SKIN PRO CLADDING Novowood were glad to announce it’s NEW CLADDING profile SKIN PRO during the last Domotex fair. This particular profile is studied especially for projects and allow the architects to choose the final effect of the cladding combining different section on the wall and making a total customizable aesthetic effect. Due to the raising demands on the aesthetic wood feeling, Novowood presented also its new NATURAL finishing that gives on the surface an unparallel wood-looking effect. Novowood is a mix of Wood Flour, HDPE and additives studied with the University of Ferrara and currently one of the most advanced and green products used to create wall cladding, louvers and flooring. The exhibition confirmed the growing interest in

LOBA Makes Wood Even More Natural LOBADUR 2K InvisibleProtect stays on the road of success: A new survey revealed that wood, which is coated with LOBA’s invisible waterbased surface protection, looks and feels even more natural than untreated wood. The survey by Institut für Holztechnologie Dresden / Germany (IHD) and Holzforschung Austria (HFA) proves the advantages of invisible surface protection. Sixty participants were asked to test wood surfaces coated with 35 different products, in comparison to untreated raw timber. The result of the survey was outstanding for 2K InvisibleProtect: for the participants, the “look and feel” of the wood treated with 2K InvisibleProtect seemed even more natural than the raw wood itself. Besides, LOBA’s model of success impressed in metrological tests with its excellent resistance, which is equivalent to that of a film-forming two-component finish. Since its market launch in 2015, 2K InvisibleProtect has been conquering the world market. In 2019, the volume sold rose by around 40 percent. The winning formula? 2K InvisibleProtect is made of the highest quality raw materials and can be cleaned as easily as a finished surface. It scores points for its anti-slip properties (BGR 181 / DIN 51130, R9), high elasticity and durability. The “invisible” has very low emissions (EMICODE® EC1 Plus R/low VOC value/GISCODE W2/DD+).

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Domotex Hannover (D)

Pallmann

structured wood flooring. Visitors had the chance to see the expressive floor of the stand for themselves, which was created with the colours from the new Pallmann Freestyle Collection. Practical demonstrations showed off the range of applications for the versatile Pallmann Spider wood floor sanding machine.

Postavy Furniture Center (PMC)

Highlights include the successful Pall-X 96 varnish and a new system for multi-coloured wood flooring Pallmann celebrates its Pall-X 96 water-based 1-component wood flooring varnish in Hanover. For more than 20 years, the product has been a delight to fans with extremely fast drying time, excellent flow and very good filling properties. Over the past year, the recipe has been optimised once again for maximum processing reliability. Alongside this classic product, the German manufacturer also presented a completely new system for the multi-coloured colouring and design of

WEP 180 SCREED RENOVATION: ALL IN ONE!

MADE IN GERMANY www.stauf.de | info@stauf.de 28

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The Private Manufacturing Unitary Enterprise “Postavy Furniture Center” (PMC) from Belarus produces interior doors of pine, alder and oak during more than 20 years.Recently production of three-layer one-lane parquet board of oak and pine was launched. Our products can be more rarely met in Belarus, but practically in all regions of the Russian Federation, the Baltic States, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Italy and Denmark, and even in Iraq and Libya. The wood pellets, which are produced by our enterprise, are sold to the countries of the European Union ( Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Lithuania, Latvia). Our enterprise takes an active part in international exhibitions which are conducted in Milan, Oslo, Moscow and Germany. Also we have the show rooms in Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Canada.

Panaget

PEDROSS PEDROSS presented several new product highlights at this year's Domotex and was met with a consistently positive response from the visitors. They were impressed by the innovative clip system Clipstar Fast and intensively tested the quick, easy and, most importantly, toolfree clip system for skirting boards. The new solid spruce wood profiles, which were developed in close cooperation with the long-term partner Döllken Profiles and are characterized by a highly resistant, chlorine-free PP-based surface foil, were equally well received. Thus, the two companies successfully created a modern product family in trendy

pidiprogetto

Flooring company Panaget has expanded its range of 100% French oak floors with the new Café Crème and Miel finishes. These supremely cosy finishes have arrived on the scene to warm up our homes just in time for winter. Café Crème and Miel are also lacquered wood floors, making them incredibly easy to maintain. Café Crème is a great alternative to natural wood flooring. Its subtle, slightly milky finish lends it a charming and contemporary look. The oak planks add to Café Crème’s charm with their distinctive grain (Zenitude grade): knots, cracks, heartwood markings etc. Meanwhile, the Miel wood floors will appeal to those seeking an ultra-natural look. With their golden, crème brûlée hue, these new planks are truly timeless. The elegant lacquer enhances the oak’s mellow yet distinctive markings (Authentic grade). These lacquered wood floors are ideal for any interior design project.

Rhinowood™ is the environmentally sustainable and innovative solution to the long-term future of wood and its application in our world. Rhinowood™ is distributed in Europe by Ravaioli Legnami. Ravaioli Legnami: wooden solutions for outdoor. A world of quality and natural design.

www.ravaiolilegnami.com

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white and modern cubic shape. Additionally, PEDROSS demonstrated what the future could look like with its direct digital print: designs of exclusive or protected woods, oak decors or extraordinary ideas are printed directly on base materials such as polystyrene, natural spruce wood, mirror glass or magnetic stripes.

Perfilstar

and numerous other types of profile. Further designs and internal and external profiles have been added to the range of aluminium skirting boards. Prinz is also presenting new metallic decors in Hanover in January; these were already successfully introduced to a large group of customers in the autumn. The “footfall sound insulation” programme has also been reworked. Prinz is introducing the new underlays for LVT and SPC floor coverings at the Domotex. The programme relaunch is accompanied by a new sample presentation, available from February 2020. “Thanks to this package we are providing our distribution partners and processing customers with the prerequisites to be able to meet almost all the requirements of architects and clients. This will strengthen our competitive edge in the area of new builds and modernisation projects,” is the optimistic view of Marketing Manager Norbert Blach.

Proligna

One more year Perfilstar has been exhibiting in Domotex. We are satisfied with the results and grateful for all the visits that we had. This year we were very excited introducing our lacquered profiles, we have recently installed a second factory specially concieved for the production of lacquered and prelack profiles. Feedback has been very positive and all the visitors have shown special interest on them. Moreover, we have keep showing our PVC profiles (100% water resistant), the perfect skirting for SPC Flooring. Right now we consider ourselves as one of the few companies that offer such a big range of solutions, either for laminate, solid wood or LVT floorings. We are also happy after all then new contacts we have made, we believe is a new opportunity to enlarge our market opportunities.

Prinz Prinz begins 2020 with an innovation offensive Wide-ranging programme of innovations for Domotex Trade Fair Domotex presents a good opportunity right at the beginning of the year to carry forward the innovation strategy and further expand the range of products. Among the innovations are a flexible expansion joint system, border joint profiles, inner and outer edges for wall coverings

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Domotex 2020 was a new experience for the Q-Floor team. Both new potential international customers and existing customers visited our stand where they got a good picture of our options and the different product groups: Q-Floor, Q-Profile, Q-Wall Indoor & Outdoor and Q-Panel. Due to the increasing demand for herringbone parquet, our Q-Bone collection (oak and walnut) was put in the spotlight. We can tell that this trend still exists from the many positive reactions. Afterwards we can look back with satisfaction on this successful debut!

RENZO BORGONOVO / FNT-TRABATTONI STAMPI

embossing rollers for the finishing of wood & engineered woodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface texture, suitable for flooring matchboards, panels, etc, really appreciate a stage like Domotex Fair for the possibility of spreading our technology, and relative knowledge, within the parquet industry, a world where our brand just started its expansion. We close this thank you note by recommending to save the dates and visit us also at Holz-Handwerk 2020 (18-21.03) in Nuremberg, Germany, where you can find us at the stand 11.0-416!

Ribadao

Renzo Borgonovo Srl and FNT Srl would like to thank all Domotex 2020 visitors for the good turnout of this year fair edition! The exhibition, which has given us the opportunity to perform live demonstrations of wood processing with our fully electric Hot Embossing machine Borgore 800/ITI, has been a great meeting point for the exchange of news and ideas with the operators of the parquet sector! Our two companies, which together manufacture industrial machineries and

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"Celebrating 15 years with Domotex, Portuguese manufacturer Ribadao has a long tradition in lumber, decking and most importantly flooring. With a tradition based in exotic woods, Ribadao is producing engineered and solid flooring in oak as well as exotic species. Always looking at the future, the company is nearing competition of a multi layered flooring plant in Portugal which will greatly increase productivity and efficiencies.”

Ravaioli Legnami – Rhinowood™

All machines could be tried out by interested trade fair visitors on demonstration areas.

Rubio Monocoat

RhinowoodTM, Ravaioli Legnami’s new 2020 decking product, for which is Europe exclusive distributor, has an exceptional durability and dimensional stability, gained through the innovative and patented production process consisting in impregnation by means of a blend of waxes. Thanks to it, a material such as pine, which is slightly durable and stable in its natural state in the outdoors, acquires the typical characteristics of exotic woods. The special treatment changes its physical and mechanical properties without altering its aesthetics. The maintenance of RhinowoodTM is fast and cheap, as wood turns grey over time, it is sufficient to clean the flooring or cladding with the pressure washer in order to restore its original aesthetics. RhinowoodTM does not contain toxins nor other volatile organic compounds, it is produced using pine originated from sustainably managed forests, and has some improved technical and mechanical characteristics compared to traditional exotic woods, keeping the aesthetics of resinous woods unaltered.

Roll GmbH "Concentrated power for subfloor preparation" In addition to the well-known full range of machines, tools and floor profiles for installation of floor coverings, Roll GmbH, based in the Swabian town of Sonnenbühl, presented its powerful "problem solvers" for subfloor preparation: The ROLL stripper family consisting of the handheld Bullystripper and self-propelled ROLL-STRIPPER, led by the newly developed ride-on stripper ROLL-STRIPPER RO-1.1, for removing all elastic and textile floor coverings but also elastically glued parquet and ceramic tiles. The ROLL floor grinding machines for the renovation and surface preparation of small to medium-sized areas in commercial property. The new industrial vacuum cleaner 1700 and dust separator with the Longopac® system with the endless hose ensured a dust-free environment.

Floor Forum International 107

New: Rubio Monocoat Pre-Aging and Rubio is EcoConscious The DOMOTEX 2020 exhibition was again a real success for Rubio Monocoat. Every year our stand has that warm wooden vibe that keeps attracting a lot of visitors. Also the current trend of authentic, aged looks with Rubio Monocoat Pre-Aging was a big hit again. This product is a non-reactive pre-treatment, which is available in 10 colour ranges. Unlike reactive products, Rubio Monocoat Pre-Aging is easy to reproduce and can be used on almost all wood types (including those that do not contain tannins!), without creating overlaps during application. Due to our big demo stand, our visitors could count on all wood-related matters by our Rubio Monocoat experts every day. This year, our stand was markedly more green than in previous years. You could discover the various steps of our sustainable entrepreneurship by reading Rubio’s EcoConscious story; how we start from linseed as a sustainable basis for our oils and end up with easily recyclable packaging.

SAICOS Successful product launch at DOMOTEX SAICOS took the opportunity to present its skills in the field of industrial application as well as innovations in the product range. In the beginning of 2020 SAICOS is launching two new environmentally friendly products. The rollout of the Decking Oil H2O has already started. Thanks to the current spring temperatures, consumers can already get a foretaste of

the barbecue season and make preparations for decking maintenance. The new Decking Oil H2O is very easy to work with and protects the wood from weather and any food stains. The Ecoline Hardwax-Oil Zero is a purely professional product for indoor use and will be launched in spring. Thanks to its solvent-free basis, the coating is healthy for living and suitable for heavily used wooden surfaces such as floors. The oil creates an abrasion-resistant and hard-wearing surface which is easy to clean. Industrial Coatings SAICOS delivers tailor-made complete solutions for the flooring industry as well as for other wood processing industries worldwide. "Regardless of whether UV systems, oxidative oils, LED coatings or hybrid variants, SAICOS customers always receive future-oriented products of highest quality.” says Josef Fleige, application engineer for industrial coatings. Further information: www.saicos.de/en

STAUF WEP 180 primer – the problem solver on site STAUF WEP 180 is a multipurpose, solvent-free, dispersion-based, 2-component epoxy resin primer that reinforces unstable substrates and significantly improves the strength of materials thanks to its extremely high level of penetration into mineral mortar systems. The primer has a short drying time and forms a film on the surface, which means that crumbling screeds can be “rescued” very quickly and easily. STAUF WEP 180 can also be used as a dispersion-based, twocomponent epoxy resin primer on cement screeds with a higher residual moisture content of up to 4 CM%. Furthermore, it is suitable for direct bonding with almost all reactive adhesives and, after being sprinkled with silica sand or having an intermediate primer coat of STAUF VDP 160 applied, it can be filled or plastered over. These properties make the very low-emission, solvent-free STAUF WEP 180 primer, with its GEV Emicode EC1 plus status, an extremely cost-efficient all-rounder and a solver of countless problems on the building site.

Tover

STAUF

Be strong, go fast, keep green. During the 2020 edition of Domotex in Hannover, Tover fulfilled the till now utopistic possibility to obtain the maximum performance in the shortest time, with a minimum environmental impact. An increasingly greener formula that this year has been improved with a really interesting proposal for professionals: a high-strength 2-coat water-based finishing system, without isocyanate, which allows you to complete a job in few hours. First coat: Fast & Full, the high coverage Self-Linking pre-lacquer to get a natural effect, ready for sanding after 1 hour. Second coat: Uniqua SQ, the Self-Linking lacquer with long-lasting and extraordinary protection properties without adding any further hardener. The numerous visitors to our stand, coming from more than 30 different countries were impressed, as proved by the many requests received immediately after the exhibition. Two new developments from STAUF Adhesives specialist STAUF demonstrated its traditional strength in research and development once again at the Domotex trade fair: The family-run company from Wilnsdorf was able to present not one but two new developments. The stand was clearly divided into two – also visually – with one side dedicated to STAUF WEP 180, a multifunctional epoxy-resin primer that offers special added value. The other side of the stand presented STAUF’s new AKZENT line, which is a complete range of products for wood flooring and surfaces and is made using environmentally-friendly raw materials.

Visit www.floor-forum.com

T&G Wood The Domotex 2020 highlights Many high potential customers and existing customers have visit T&G Wood at the Domotex 2020. One of our topics was to promote the natural and sustainable wood flooring. The megatrend “health” in your own home and environment. Use natural material and pollutant free raw materials with wood flooring from T&G Wood, 100% Pure Wood. We have created and showed in these 4 days, all modern and classic floors with the latest trends. Besides this we were able to explain how we

Floor Forum International 107

Review

Domotex Hannover (D)

without the brittleness of the latter. Accidental breakage during installation is excluded, which is a recurring problem with genuine ceramics.

Vetedy

produce our Basic Program but also our Custom Made wood flooring. For every wish we can create every wooden floor. Here below the new highlights: Herringbone 10/3 x 140 x 700 mm Euro. Oak Rustic A/B Solid stair steps 40 x 650 x 1000 or 1400 mm Nature and Rustic A/B Herringbone 15/4 x 120 x 600 mm Euro. Oak Nature 4-sides bevel Block panel 1-strip 15/4 x 190 x 1900 mm Deep brushed rustic A/B Did you miss these highlights? Please feel free to contact us and we will send you an update.

Once again, the Domotex fair has been a very nice edition and it is especially the case once every two year. Vetedy is very thankful to its customers to always visit our booth with so much enthusiasm! We have to admit that with our new booth and it’s integrated bar with beer tap, everybody enjoys the convivial moment spent to drink a nice beer and at the same time discover our magnificent Softline® decking and Techniclic® claddings systems. This year we introduced a new specie in decking and we have showed and talked to you about the innovations that will appear in our product range in the near future. As per our thoughts and based on our nice expansion last year , 2020 should be a very nice business year! See you at Carrefour du bois in Nantes !

Veno Wood Flooring

USFloors International/COREtec®

CERAtouch is the latest addition to the COREtec® STONE range of rigid composite floors. Jan Dossche :”CERAtouch will unquestionably revolutionize the flooring industry for many years to come. It brings you the best of both worlds: the strength plus look and feel of a ceramic tile combined with the comfort and ease of installation of a soft floor. CERAtouch is available in a large number of designer-curated tile and stone designs.” Stijn Windels Marketing Director : “CERAtouch is built around a high-density core composed of limestone particles, void of PVC. Its longevity is assured by multiple high-performance wear layers giving it a scratch resistance equal to or better than that of a ceramic tile but

Floor Forum International 107

The exhibition went really well for us. A lot of international contacts as well as right away deals were made at the show. As a company we really showed what we stand for and how we have developed ourselves over the last few years. What really stood out for us was our new prefinished 8 color collection as well as our special finishes which was more beloved by the project sector. A big factor to the attraction of people was our new ultra matt finish. To sum it up, we had a great show, great contacts and an awesome result.

Special

The ecological footprint of the flooring sector

HOW BIG IS THE FLOOR COVERING FOOTPRINT? ACTING ECOLOGICALLY CAN CURB ALL THOSE FOOTPRINTS CONSIDERABLY We act ecologically by burdening the environment less with ‘ harmful’ and slow or non-degradable substances which often defile the planet for an eternity, by treating our natural energy sources sparingly, and by showing a preference for energy sources which do not pollute. We also show respect for the environment by expressing a preference for renewable commodities in the production of goods i.e. commodities which we don’t exhaust simply by harvesting them. The rules are not tied to one product group or segment, but apply to everything, everyone, and all the time.

Ecological – how come? In ‘popular jargon’ this concept has become somewhat impoverished or simplified to mean ‘environmentally-friendly’. However, the entire ecological field is much more complex than just that. Here are some clear definitions. The definition of ‘ecology’ is as follows: ‘Ecology is the study of the dynamics of the interaction between organisms, populations, or biological communities (biotic environmental factors) and relations between organisms, populations, biological communities, or landscapes and the non-biological environment (abiotic environmental factors).’ The ‘ecological footprint’ is defined even more strictly: ‘The ecological footprint (also global footprint or footprint for short) for a particular year is a figure which states how much biologically productive land and water area a particular ethnic group has used in that year in order to preserve its level of consumption and process its own waste. This is a hypothetical figure which is measured in global hectares. A global hectare is one hectare of biologically productive space at (globally) average productivity, taking account of modern technology.’

reduce the level of transport (e.g. they have their own forests, their own sawmills, and their own planing factories, and floors are produced, finished, and packed at one location). Obviously, the choice of the means of transport offers solutions which are more or less ecological.

Production In all phases of the production process the commodities used play a significant part in the environmental impact assessment. Which adhesives are used? Which finishes? This is where the issue of VOCs and new emission standards comes into play. Energy management, too, has to be included as both an economic cost (that seems logical) and an environmental cost (impact). In all production sectors, including that of wooden floors and the production of additional commodities used for the production of wooden floors, we’re seeing a clear movement towards renewable energy (e.g. wind farms and solar energy). Another important point is the limitation of waste during the production.

Packing The materials used to pack and transport products also play a significant part. Commodities which can be recycled (and are renewable) are once again enjoying the preference. The packaging obviously plays a part with the packing of chemical resources such as adhesives. There are producers who, apart from ordinary packages, offer packing concepts which show due regard for the ecological footprint, such as a bag in a cardboard box instead of a bucket. Buckets are now often made of recyclable plastic.

Are wooden floors ecological? If we consider wooden floors, for instance, the main concerns start with the cutting of trees and extend to the packing of the end product. And so, the main phases are harvesting, transporting, producing, and packing.

Management at the source Wood is a natural and renewable commodity and is therefore basically ‘durable’. However, that durability is undermined if wood is harvested with no limits or restraints. That observation has given rise to certification initiatives such as FSC and PEFC. From a socio-economic perspective we speak of sustainable forest management if a number of basic principles are respected e.g. the preservation of social-cultural, ecological, and economic values.

Transport The more so called truck movements, the greater the impact on the environment. We note that a lot of wooden floor producers are endeavouring to integrate production as much as possible in order to

Floor Forum International 107

Advertorial

Parador (D)

A CHAT WITH THE CEO OF PARADOR A REMARKABLY CLEAR VIEW OF THE FLOORING MARKET TODAY AND TOMORROW for Parador. Is this diversification necessary for you as a producer to stay on the market? Mr. Winnecken: Consumer behaviour has changed considerably over the past year as a result of various factors. For example, consumers inform themselves in detail on the Internet before they buy a product. They therefore know current trends and innovations and know which product fits their wishes and needs. It is therefore important for a modern, successful company to be able to react. It has always been one of Parador's significant strengths to adapt flexibly to changes in the market. We see ourselves as pioneers in many aspects, both with regards to the design of our products and innovations. Accordingly, we monitor market trends closely so that we always have a product portfolio that meets the current demands of consumers. Editor: The same thing is happening with traders/floor fitters. Fully fledged parquet floor fitters initially opposed laminate, which they regarded as ‘inferior’. As laminate ‘matured’, they started including it in their range. Now they’re taking courses in fitting elastic floors. Do they have to do that to survive? Mr. Winnecken: The flooring market is developing dynamically depending on consumer requirements. Not only manufacturers like us have to adapt to this, but also the skilled workers who process the products at the end. But there are many opportunities in this for both manufacturers and processors, especially since consumers are once again attaching greater importance to qualified work by specialists. The ‘do it for me’ concept is on the rise again and qualified skilled workers are in demand.

From time to time, it is good to stop and consider the world in which we operate daily, certainly when that world itself is in a constant state of flux. Who better to give us an impression of the global flooring market today and tomorrow than Mr. Lubert Winnecken, CEO of Parador, the German manufacturer? A helicopter flight of questions and, hopefully, some answers. Editor: The respective manufacturers of wooden flooring, laminate, and elastic flooring used to regard each other as competitors. Nowadays, we’re seeing that some of the major ‘players’ offer various types of flooring, i.e. the one-stop shops. That’s also the case

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Editor: Manufacturers make every effort to make the fitting easier. Click systems in ALL types of flooring are proof of that. What is the added value of a professional if DIY enthusiasts can do it all themselves? Mr. Winnecken: The click systems offer advantages for both the professional and the layman, because they allow the floor to be fitted quickly, easily and precisely. This gives inexperienced DIY enthusiasts the opportunity to lay their own floor and achieve an optimum result. For professionals, it is above all a question of speed. Thanks to the click systems, they can fit the floor faster. This saves time on the construction site and allows more jobs to be processed. Editor: We’re also seeing just about all styles come back in all types of flooring. For instance, we’re seeing oak strips in solid wood, multilayer, laminate, and LVT in the same decors. Why this approach?

Mr. Winnecken: Customers have different requirements for their desired floor, which depends on the respective room and installation situation, among other things. Of course, they do not want to make any compromises in terms of appearance and design. We therefore offer our consumers a wide selection of decors in all ranges, so that all customers can find their preferred decor to suit their individual living situation. Through equality or at least similarity in the decors, we create the possibility that a favourite decor can be used consistently, no matter whether it is engineered wood flooring for the living room or Modular ONE for the bathroom. Editor: What do you think about the current situation in the flooring world ? Mr. Winnecken: The flooring world will change significantly during the coming years. It is and will be more about different flooring species and derivates. The life cycles of the individual flooring species will go down and the need for producers to innovate will become greater. Editor: What are the Parador products of the future ? Mr. Winnecken: One of the products is already in place and is representing our product strategy well. This is Modur One. Ecologically driven, strong using features, and easy to install will be more and more the features of our upcoming innovation.

About Parador Parador GmbH has developed into the leading brand of high-quality systems for floor and wall design since its foundation in 1977. The product range includes laminate flooring, parquet, panels and elastic floor coverings produced at the German headquarters in Coesfeld and at the Austrian site in Güssing. Highest demands on technology, materials, and surface refinement guarantee its worldwide success. For outstanding product design, Parador has won some international prizes, including the red dot design award, the Interior Innovation Award, and the German Design Award. As a traditional woodworking company, Parador is committed to responsible management of natural resources and sets ecological standards for materials, production, packaging and logistics. Parador is a partner of the ‘Plant-for-the-Planet’ Foundation, which is active worldwide for afforestation and climate protection. Since July 2018, HIL Limited, a subsidiary of the CK Birla Group, is the new main owner of Parador. HIL Limited is the leading manufacturer of building materials and components in India.

You will find more information on www.paradorfloors.be

Editor: What is the added value of Parador for the Parador customers? Mr. Winnecken: We offer our consumers technically mature products. We attach particular importance to design and innovation. Parador products combine the highest standards of beauty, quality, and living comfort. Our extensive range of supplementary accessories offers the customer a perfectly coordinated system of products that facilitate installation and contribute to the long-term preservation of the value of the floor. Editor: What will be the biggest challenge for Parador in the next few years? Mr. Winnecken: To organise and invest the ongoing expansion and growing of the company alongside our business model. Editor: Who will be your most important customers within five years? Mr. Winnecken: Every customer is basically important. But the most important customer for us at the end of the day is the end user. As a premium brand we are striving to move things forward to satisfy the customer needs of the end user to ‘make every home the most beautiful home in the world’. For sure we fulfil those requirement through our sales channels with our trade partners offline and online. Editor: What will be the most important markets for Parador within five years? Mr. Winnecken: Those will be some of our European neighbour countries and overseas markets like China, North America, and India. Editor: Do you believe in ‘leasing’ instead of buying of Home & Deco products? Mr. Winnecken: No, I don’t believe in that concept at all. As ‘home’ is not an issue of usage of items, it´s more about emotion and possession. And you can´t lease if you want to possess something. That is a contradiction in itself.

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Outdoor floors: wood & composite

WOODEN TERRACES – WHAT A BUSINESS! AN ACTIVITY ‘IN ITSELF’ OR MAYBE NOT?

Photo – Burger

In recent years, we have seen a huge increase in the number of floors which resemble wood. Some materials consist partly of wood, others not at all. The applications have widened immensely due to the technical specifications of those materials: wood or wood-imitation can appear in the bathroom! Gradually, traditional parquet floor fitters have taken over extra rooms indoors. They have finally got on board, albeit reluctantly. Today, the outdoor wooden flooring market is becoming increasingly. What happens now? Should parquet floor fitters follow?

Parquet fitters in the garden Not so long ago, a seasoned parquet company declared in this magazine that fitting terraces is an activity ‘in and of itself’ and that they preferred to give it a wide berth. People said, ‘Stick to what you’re good at.’ That company has since changed its mind. The reason? Demand from clients was so high that they couldn’t really do otherwise. There were also lots of other arguments.

Striving for quality and skills All parquet floor fitters with years of service behind them know of clients who ‘moan’ about the smallest details of a finished job or start to magnify those smallest details into a serious fault. Too fussy? Sometimes they are, but that critical attitude is also a motivation

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to achieve perfection. Clients demand consummate expertise and perfection when it comes to parquet and wooden floors. Today, we are seeing the emergence of that same demanding attitude when it comes to wooden terraces. Traditional parquet floor fitters have the necessary skills to achieve that perfection.

Striving for quality and the target group Who demands quality? People who look for perfection in an outdoor terrace will probably also make high demands regarding the quality of their indoor parquet floors. In other words, it is the same target group and the same clients. They are parquet floor fitters’ existing clients for indoor floors. And so, that saves them from looking for more prospective clients. The demand usually comes from clients themselves. And so, the situation is an economic luxury.

They even have the tools Obviously, this makes a big difference! Parquet floor fitters have not only the precision and expertise to fit an outdoor wooden terrace perfectly, but also most of the necessary tools. Those tools can be deployed for both the fitting and some of the maintenance. Take, for instance, the thorough clean or renovation after a few years. Sanding machines, especially rotary disc sanders, can be used perfectly well for those tasks, provided that you use the correct abrasive or sanding tool.

And what a business!

An inexhaustible range

Fitting terraces is an activity which can generate revenue for years. In fact, the fitting is merely the start of a long-term relationship with clients.

What parquet floor fitters can offer is certainly impressive. Apart from the refined technological accessories which should ensure perfection (e.g. pedestals and clips), the number of types of outdoor floors is vast.

Maintenance As is the case with parquet, cleaning and maintenance are also vital to the lifespan of wooden terraces. Here parquet floor fitters can make excellent profits by providing the necessary products for the maintenance and protection of outdoor wood. Indeed, the market offers lots of products for protecting the ‘health’ of outdoor wood. Generally speaking, the range can be divided up into three types of products, namely Terrace Oil, Terrace Anti-ageing, and Terrace Cleaner. All three contribute to a beautiful terrace and protect the wood long term. Yet as we know, there are limits to everything.

Renovation As is the case with parquet, the day will come when an outdoor terrace needs a proper renovation. Parquet floor fitters have the necessary tools and machines to that end, but the terrace renovation machines on offer nowadays really do make the renovation of outdoor parquet a piece of cake. The purchase of such machines by parquet floor fitters can open up for them a renovation market to bring them great financial gain. Since these machines have come onto the market only very recently, we can assume that there is an extremely big and lucrative market waiting out there.

the italian Wpc

Tropical hardwood sorts As we have often explained, the suitability of hardwood for use in outdoor floors is determined via a generally recognised and accepted division of the wood sorts into five classes. Wood sorts in class 1 retain their beauty for 25 years. Category 1 includes robinia, belinga, chestnut, massaranduba, padauk, teak, merbau, afrormosia, ipe, etc.

Thermally treated wood A first alternative to expensive tropical wood sorts can be found in the shape of thermally treated wood. In previous editions we have outlined the various procedures for thermal treatment: thermo-wood, Plato, retificated wood, and Perdure.

Accoya® Since the start of the 20th century, research has been conducted into the acetylation of wood to improve its resistance to wood rot and fungi. Since 2007, there has been a commercial product on the market called ‘Accoya®’, which is made at Accsys Technologies in Arnhem in the Netherlands.

IN LOVE WITH DECKING

manufacturer

® materia infinita®

Cédric Dasesson Ph. Orma Studio_Cagliari Private House in Cagliari, Italy

WWW.novoWood.it

WOODEN FLOORS FOR OUTDOORS

LA SAN MARCO PROFILI SRL Viale Europa 63 - 31010 Soligo, TV - Italy Tel. +39 0438 980106 r.a. - Fax +39 0438 980176 info@lasanmarcoprofili.com - www.lasanmarcoprofili.com

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Special

Outdoor floors: wood & composite

Wood composite Wood composite consists of wood fibres, high-density polyethylene, UV stabilisers, dyes, and various additives in order to optimise the mechanical qualities. Usually, the composition is recycled wood fibres and waste wood and recycled polyethylene. And so, in many respects wood composite is an ecologically responsible alternative to tropical hardwood.

Bamboo composite Bamboo is a perfect alternative to terraces in tropical wood. It has proved its qualities for a few years now and is a very good remedy against deforestation. Composite is an excellent solution for anyone looking for a tiled terrace with the look of wood, low maintenance, and stable colours. Bamboo composite is harder than other composites, is more stable, and swells and shrinks less.

What’s on the market ?

the fitting. The wooden terrace and composite market is thriving and studies suggest this will continue in the next five years with forecasts of about 17% growth.

Denderwood

Burger & Cie The best-selling wood sort at Burger & Cie is kebony, a gnarl-free sort of wood which becomes harder, more durable, and more stable through the injection of vegetable ingredients. Thermo-wood also accounts for a good proportion of turnover. As an alternative to wood, Burger & Cie offers the composite NEKKO, which is available in chestnut brown and grey. As this is in the classic co-extrusion segment, the price is comparable to that of a top quality wood sort. Due to the basic concept which Burger offers for terraces, any professional (carpenter, parquet floor fitter, landscape specialist, swimming pool fitter, etc.) can do

Are you also dreaming of a nice terrace in your garden? You can’t make up your mind because there are so many wood species suitable for decking? There are indeed a lot of possibilities. Denderwood can help with high-end tropical hardwoods: Ipe, padouk, afrormosia, teak … or maybe you are looking for decking in WPC. As exclusive distributor of UPM for the Benelux, Denderwood is also your partner for WPC material. Features of UPM: Low maintenance, scratch resistance, recylcled and recyclable, quick to install, splinter free. Don’t look any further and contact Denderwood to discover their large product range in tropical hardwoods en WPC.

The specialist for fastening technology

Eurotec Stone System

Profi-Line adjustable pedestals with modular system Click adapter

Building patios has never been so easy!

L adapter

Stone adapter

Take a look at our application video:

Multifunctional installation system

Advantages

The multifunctional installation system Stone System from Eurotec minimises the effort involved in constructing a patio. One unique practical feature of this system is that it can be combined with various deck coverings. You simply need a load-bearing foundation, the Stone System from Eurotec, and the desired deck covering.

• Exceptionally economical • Precise joint pattern • Time-saving and straightforward installation • Stone slabs can be combined with timber or WPC boards, for example • Long-lasting • Certified, high load-bearing capacity

E.u.r.o.Tec GmbH • Unter dem Hofe 5 • D-58099 Hagen Floor Forum International Tel. +49 2331 62 45-0 • Fax +49 2331 62 45-200107 • email info@eurotec.team

Extension rings

For more information visit our website

www.eurotec.team/en

the core of our program. Our customers have a choice between various surfaces, including smooth, rilled and rough rilled. We offer a custom made special profile (Wechselfalz), so the under construction cannot be seen. To guarantee the highest quality, all our decking is sanded twice. We also offer the possibility to oil every plank to highlight the long lasting deep color of the precious exotic wood. Rounding off our outdoor decking assortment is WPC, a wood plastic composite which is very popular in heavy-traffic areas. We offer these in a variety of popular colors for you to choose from. Futura wants to satisfy all your under construction needs so we offer advice and material to build this very important base structure for your terrace. We supply all the items you might need including wood or aluminum for under construction, pads, bases, clips, maintenance oil etc. Please call us!

La San Marco Profili

Eurotec

The Eurotec Stone-System â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Multifunctional installation system The multifunctional installation system Stone System from Eurotec minimizes the effort involved in constructing a patio. With this system, different products from the categories of patio supports, substructures and fasteners are put together to build the optimal, individual patio. The ability to combine different patio coverings is particularly attractive. The user only needs a load-bearing substrate, the Stone System from Eurotec and the desired patio coverings. The advantages of the Eurotec Stone System are therefore obvious: enormous economic efficiency ensures time-saving and uncomplicated installation. Various combinations of stone slabs with e.g. timber or WPC boards are possible, whereby the long-lasting durability of the patio is basically ensured.

FUTURA FLOORS

Nowadays, the market of wood outdoor constructions is growing a lot, above all thanks to architectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interest in preserving the natural element. Among all sorts of wood you could use for construction of terraces undoubtedly stand out exotic and treated woods because of their long-lasting quality. La San Marco Profili offers different sorts of these wood along with all the necessary for installation. Thanks to our increased flexibility and our large and well-furnished stock, we guarantee optimum quality and fast deliveries of all our products. Moreover, we also have an innovative highly resistant material made up of PVC and Rice Husks and therefore 100% recyclable and eco-friendly. This composite material is a valid alternative to timber woods, because it has a very natural look and it has many benefits: UV and fire resistance (class B1), long lifespan, low maintenance. However, regardless which material you choose for your decking project, we believe that the installation must be left up to experienced professionals floor fitters. In fact, we think that the figure of the floor fitter is the most indicated also for outdoor installations, because even if methods are different, a floor fitter is the one who has more experience in this field and therefore he is more prepared to do this job. Of course, choosing an experienced fitter is extremely important for a good lasting job result.

NOVOWOOD

SOLID IS OUR DNA! Our solid exotic wood for terraces comes as raw material and in finished form from Bolivia and Brazil. Cumaru, Ipe, Garapa and Marfil are

Visit www.floor-forum.com

NOT JUST WOOD Iperwood is an Italian company that after an experience of more than 40 years in exotic wood trading, started to made and develops Novowood, a wood plastic composite studied with the University of Ferrara and made for the extreme climatic area, as for example Nautical environment. Continuous research on the material allow the company to provide a material with many advantages against natural wood. Durability, Color and dimensional stability are just of the

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Outdoor floors: wood & composite

advantages that Novowood provide in external environment. Material is also recycled and recyclable in totally respect of the environment. Novowood can be also produced in different section and length giving to the client advantages in term of waste reduction and aesthetic satisfaction. Due to the raising market demand WPC is now one of the most appreciated product wood based for external environment, Novowood provide also to his customers a technical support and complete system for the installation of the products in different kind of condition and application.

Ravaioli Legnami – Rhinowood™ RhinowoodTM, Ravaioli Legnami’s new 2020 decking product, for which is Europe exclusive distributor, has an exceptional durability and dimensional stability, gained through the innovative and patented production process consisting in impregnation by means of a blend of waxes. Thanks to it, a material such as pine, which is slightly durable and stable in its natural state in the outdoors, acquires the typical characteristics of exotic woods. The special treatment changes its physical and mechanical properties without altering its aesthetics. The maintenance of RhinowoodTM is fast and cheap, as wood turns grey over time, it is sufficient to clean the flooring or cladding with the pressure washer in order to restore its original aesthetics. RhinowoodTM does not contain toxins nor other volatile organic compounds, it is produced using pine originated from sustainably managed forests, and has some improved technical and mechanical characteristics compared to traditional exotic woods, keeping the aesthetics of resinous woods unaltered.

DENDERWOOD J.Cardijnstraat 3 9420 Erpe-Mere Belgium Tel. +32 (0) 53-73 74 74 Fax +32 (0) 53-73 74 75 E info@denderwood.com Web www.denderwood.com

Your partner for tropical woodsolutions Denderwood combines sustainability, innovation and expertise - Decking (traditional screwing or invisible fastening with clips) - Rough sawntimber and underconstruction - Wall cladding (open structures and tongue and groove) Large choice of sizes, profiles and species (Padouk, Iroko, Afzelia, Afrormosia, Ipe, Teak, Yellow Balau, ...)

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MarQuise Greenline Primeline

Special

New trends in vinyl, LVT, and PVC floors

WOOD DECORS STILL DOMINATE DESIGN FLOORS EVEN OLD CLASSIC PARQUET FITTING PATTERNS ARE BEING TAKEN ON

Photo – Aspecta

Domotex confirmed what we already suspected; aesthetic/ decorative options with LVT, PVC, and linoleum flooring are still unlimited. All styles are possible: plain or heterogeneous, brightly coloured or modest, tile decors, marble and natural stone, simply modern or highly classic. Yet, as with all imitation floors, wood decors are hugely popular. Wood

decors are highly natural and the structure can also be felt thanks to embossing. Some producers say that ‘rustic decors’ are remarkably popular. We are seeing lots of collections from various brands inspired by distressed floors or recycled wood. Then, obviously, there are the old fitting patterns of herringbone and Hungarian point.

Floor Forum International 107

Special

New trends in vinyl, LVT, and PVC floors

Compatible floor coverings

Oak in front yet again!

The decorative choice options within floor types and a number of technical features give clients a virtually unlimited choice of flooring combinations. What is unlimited? From a decorative point of view it certainly means that as regards designs there is such a rapprochement between floor types that they are entirely compatible with each other. For instance, a solid parquet floor in the living room can be combined almost seamlessly and without hindrance with vinyl ‘planks’ (LVP) in the kitchen. The abundance of decors removes all boundaries. The moisture resistance of synthetic floors makes them ideal for bathrooms. A transition from the landing in laminate to the bathroom with LVT or PVC is no longer a problem.

Oak is still the most popular choice for parquet and wooden floors. Most people like oak for its look (sobriety plus a certain elegance). After all, there are some types of parquet which we only see in oak because oak was the only type of wood in stock when those parquet floors were fitted. And so, it’s no surprise that oak is still the champion type of wood on the synthetic floor market.

Wood is becoming ‘flexible’ It doesn’t really matter whether or not flexible floor producers have drawn their inspiration from the success formula of laminate. The fact is that this sector has collectively embraced wood decors with all the accompanying trends. This ‘jolt towards wood decors’ is still fairly recent, but the effect has been an ‘invasion’. The fact that digital ‘print art’ has penetrated here, too, makes anything possible. Expensive wood sorts have suddenly become available at reasonable prices in a good number of floor types, some of which are barely 2mm thick. Obviously, it’s all possible in all fitting patterns. Whether you opt for a wood decor in strips, mosaic, herringbone, Hungarian point, or industrial parquet, it has no effect whatsoever on the price. All fitting patterns are possible and producers really do offer an extensive range of parquet types. The same goes for colours and finishes.

Typical oak finishes Oil or lacquer? It doesn’t really matter. By contrast, distressed versions such as ‘smoked’, brushed or hand-scraped floors are processes which were carried out on oak in the first place not only because it was the most widely available and qualitative type of wood, but also because it lends itself ideally to such special treatments. And so, with several producers we are seeing the emergence of classic decors and distressed designs. The structure in all those forms can also be felt thanks to the embossing technique.

Aspecta

www.progressprofiles.com

A New evolution with the goal of flexibility, innovation and energy efficiency

PATE NT

PRODESO® HEAT GRIP SYSTEM The system is composed of three elements: PRODESO® HEAT GRIP MEMBRANE, PRODESO® HEAT GRIP CABLE e PRODESO® HEAT GRIP THERMOSTAT KIT. The polyethylene membrane with uncoupling, waterproofing and vapour management features has a 8,5 mm thickness and a thermowelded non-woven fabric on the back side, which guarantees the adhesion to the substrate. The new membrane structure allows a perfect fixing of the heating cable and a crack-bridging ability 5 times more than the PRODESO HEAT. The cables of last generation are composed of many resistances, each one 60 cm long, in a parallel circuit. If the cable is damaged, only the broken resistance stops working but not the whole cable. The thermostat of last generation interfaces with Android and Apple devices, that is why it is possible to adjust all settings and time schedule using an application with internet connection as remote control.

P R O F I L E S & SY S T E M S

Floor Forum International 107

GROUND BREAKING NEW COLLECTION BY ASPECTA! At Domotex Hannover, Aspecta presented the innovative, patented Aspecta Contours collection, with Superb design quality built on the foundation of the LVT leader’s ISOCORE Technology®. Aspecta Contours collection has 4 patterns. The Chantilly – a bold, oversized interpretation of herringbone design, The Chambord – a bold, oversized interpretation of chevron design, furthermore Tarascon and Versailles represent a key strategic design for a floating floor, designed for the greater scale of residential and commercial projects. With exclusive Oak visuals trending towards more high-style designer looks, Aspecta contours are available in 8 wood grain colors for each collection. Aspecta Contours is a 8 mm Multilayer Designflooring (LVT), which features a 0.55 mm wear layer coated with Aspecta’s proprietary Duraspect Extreme Surface Protectant™. A pre-attached HDPE underlayment provides sound mitigation and enhanced comfort underfoot. Two of the new formats – Versailles and Tarascon - incorporate patent-pending* technology from HMTX Industries, Aspecta’s parent company.

Special

Who has adhesive for various screeds in combination with floor heating?

GLUEING PARQUET ONTO FLOOR HEATING POINTS FOR ATTENTION WITH THE FITTING – STEP BY STEP

Photo – Tover

Everyone agrees that floor heating has various aesthetic assets as compared to radiators, if only because it is an invisible source of heat. Radiators take up space and spoil the view and that is even more of a pity for those who opt for the look of solid parquet. Obviously, questions still need to be answered about technical reconciliation, viability, and safety, certainly in an era when things change so rapidly. One such question is: Which adhesive is the most suitable for full glueing on floor heating?

Everything under control? When parquet floor fitters start from the screed, it is important that they have the necessary information from the heating specialist with regard to the type of heating system, date of the fitting, and therefore also the drying time of the screed. There are clear guidelines for drying the screed. With wet systems (pipes in cement/concrete/anhydrite) the floor has to dry for one week for each centimetre of screed thickness with a minimum of four weeks before turning on the heating. With dry construction systems, the system can simply be switched on after 24 hours and the floor fitters can start work immediately. Let’s go over the fitting of the parquet floor step by step.

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Moisture content under control It is necessary for floor fitters to take a sound reading of the moisture content of the covering floor (screed), something which is always necessary for fitting wooden floors. The rules for the moisture content with floor heating establish the following: - With cement-bound covering floors: moisture content no more than 1.8% CM. - With anhydrite covering floors: moisture content a maximum of 0.3% CM. - With chipboard: 5 to 12% (mass).

Temperature under control The use of floor heating before the fitting: In many countries there are no clear standards with regard to the use of floor heating before the floor is fitted. In Germany the rules are as follows: - The floor heating water should be heated to 20°C. - Then we increase the temperature by 5°C each day for five consecutive days until we finally reach the maximum temperature of 45°C. - This temperature should now be maintained for five days. - After those five days, we lower the temperature again by 5°C per day until the temperature once again reaches 20°C. - That cycle can best be repeated once.

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Who has adhesive for various screeds in combination with floor heating?

Acclimatisation completed? It is absolutely essential that the floor which is due to be fitted can acclimatise for three to seven days under the normal conditions of the room or the surrounds where the floorboards will be fitted. - During the acclimatisation period, the temperature may not fall below 10°C or rise above 20°C. The relative humidity should be between 45 and 60%. - The floor heating should be switched off if a levelling layer is applied, regardless of whether or not it is preceded by a primer. - The floor heating should also remain switched off during the floor fitting. - The floor heating remains switched off until the floor is completely finished, and therefore also during sandpapering and the application of lacquer, oil, or wax. - This should be followed by a break of three to seven days. - After that, the water temperature may be increased by following the same procedure as specified above. The water temperature is increased to 45°C and at the same time you must make sure that the floor temperature never exceeds 28°C.

Implications with regard to the parquet adhesive Beforehand, we draw a double distinction regarding the suitability of the wood sorts and the types of parquet. This is all about stability and moisture sensitivity. Basically, most sorts are perfectly suitable for use on floor heating, but some wood sorts are more stable than others and some exceptional wood sorts are even discouraged. The suitability of a wood sort depends on its moisture sensitivity. The least sensitive wood sorts are immediately the most suitable for use on floor heating. These are traditional wood sorts such as oak, merbau, wenge, afzelia, afrormosia, panga-panga, padauk, teak, and kambala. Wood sorts like beech, guatumbu, ash, robinia, and maple are discouraged. Moreover, we should also realise that multilayer parquet has greater dimensional stability than solid parquet.

The choice of adhesive The slenderness factor and the type of parquet are important for choosing the right adhesive. We can state in general that elasticity is one of the major parameters for avoiding an adhesion breach between adhesive and covering floor or a breach of the substrate, just as the fact that elasticity also allows for wider movements of the wood. The most important distinction nowadays is found mainly between two types of parquet adhesive: 2-component PU adhesive or MS polymer adhesive. The latter is extremely elastic, whilst 2-component PU adhesive is very rigid. That will also ensure rigid adhesion between parquet and cement covering floor, partly due to the thermal-hardening features. The use of a 1-component adhesive means that fewer strains are transferred to the cement covering floor because the wood itself is permitted more scope to swell and shrink. This will later result in wider joints, something which is not aesthetic, certainly with parquet with square edges.

Execution The 2-component PU adhesive is mixed thoroughly (MS polymer adhesives can be used straight out of the packet without being mixed). It is then applied to the substrate with a notched trowel in strokes of about 40cm. For multilayer parquet a fairly coarse notched trowel is recommended, a thinner one for pattern and mosaic parquet. The notched trowel is always held vertically during the glueing to apply the profile of the glueing teeth in a smooth bed to the substrate. Furthermore, the notched trowel also has to ‘scrape’ well.

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Who offers which adhesive for the application? Bostik Since we can expect wooden floorboards to swell and shrink more with floor heating than without it, Bostik believes it is best to opt for a glue which allows this to a limited extent. If you use a rigid 2-component adhesive, the covering floor will come under more strain. Heat resistance isn’t really a factor; as regards heat resistance, all sorts of glues can be used. At Bostik they also point out that an anhydrite flow-screed envelops the heating pipes very well. They believe tough elastic glues are the best choice. At Bostik that means PARFIX ECO PLUS, a top class adhesive based on AXIOS technology.

Blanchon Blanchon strongly endorses the warning that there are clear rules (the steps plan) for using floor heating with parquet. Over time, an adhesive can lose its ‘plastic’ under the influence of heat (through gradual evaporation), something which can be a health hazard. The adhesive can then become breakable and the floor can come loose. Hybrid polymers possess few softeners and that is an advantage. Moreover, these adhesives adhere to any healthy screed and possess the necessary elasticity. The hybrid polymers AB 1300 (traditional glueing up to 130mm wide and 260mm for multilayer) and AB 2000 (up to 200mm and 400mm for multilayer) are adapted for floor heating. These are available in pliable aluminium bags of 6kg and packed in pairs in cardboard. These adhesives are flexible and elastic, they offer excellent adhesion, they are easy to apply, and they provide a firm adhesive groove. They are in class AC1R.

Chimiver UNISIL is a prepolymer based, single-component hydrocuring adhesive with a silanic termination (MS technology). Recommended for gluing pre-finished wooden floor onto marble, grit, tiles, ceramic or marble-chip floor, etc. Also suitable for gluing wooden floor onto underfloor heating and cooling system. It can be also used for gluing panels for heat and acoustic insulation (cork, polyurethane foam, rock wool); gluing tiles on asbestos

cement and chipboard panels and gluing wood and building materials (ceramics, gres-slabs) on metal supports. UNISIL has different certificates such as: EC1; ATTESTATION CCAEnvironmentallyCompatible Product (Certificate issued by Department BEST - Politecnico of Milan CCA Registration No. 20163); Sound Reduction (CSI Test Report No. 0056/DC/ACU/06); Heat conductivity (CSI Test Report No. 0020/DC/ TTS/06). UNISIL can contribute to the achievement of QI CREDIT 4.1 according to the parameters of the GEV dated 03 March 2009, because it meets the certification LEED protocol (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

Tover To be suitable to bond a wooden floor on a under heating, an adhesive must be strong and elastic enough to resist to numerous temperature variations over the years. That feature is compulsory to avoid wood to tear off. We recommend to use our MS polymer adhesives Tovcol Ms and Tovcol Ms Start for engineered floors, which are particularly elastic and our two-component epoxy polyurethane solvent

free Tovcol TP2C or two-component pure polyurethane Tovcol PU2C glues on solid wood, that are strong enough to keep the wood bonded even in case of important movements.

Thomsit All Thomsit parquet adhesives are suitable for glueing wooden flooring onto floor heating. Both elastic adhesives (such as the Thomsit Flextec glues) and non-elastic adhesives can be used in combination with floor heating. It is more a question of the floor fitter’s personal preference whether to use an elastic or non-elastic adhesive. We tend to recommend elastic adhesives because they usually offer a little more comfort, such as, for instance, Thomsit P 675, P 685, or P 695. These glues have permanently strong adhesion, are easy to apply, and are highly elastic. These products do not contain any water or solvents and any stains can be removed easily. The Thomsit primers and adhesives hardly affect the heat resistance, and the type of screed doesn’t play any further part here. For more information you can visit their web site: www.thomsit.be.

PALL-X 96

COOL RUNNING

Cool running in life and on the job site. And who doesn’t love days which just go perfectly to plan. www.good-for-wood.com

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Who has hand-machines for roughening up old tiles, scraping the screed, and removing old carpet, tiles,adhesive residue, etc…?

ROTARY DISC SANDER OR FLOOR STRIPPER? THE TYPE OF JOB DETERMINES THE FINAL CHOICE The preparatory works for a particular task in the construction sector often take more time and energy than the execution of the task itself. That applies no less to the flooring sector and certainly the parquet sector. With renovation, those preparatory tasks are becoming all the more extensive and heavy: removing old flooring, removing adhesive residue from the screed or from other existing flooring, and roughening up ceramic tiles to make them fit for direct glueing. Thankfully, machine manufacturers have developed machines over the years to make the heavy labour bearable.

Removing old floors Removing old glued floors is no sinecure. We can certainly refer to it as ‘hard labour’. Yet the removal of existing floors is merely one task. Existing floors, the screed, or wooden planks often have to be scraped or roughened up. Adhesive residue often has to be removed in order to make the screed suitable once again for glueing. Floor strippers are probably the most suitable tool for the removal of existing flooring. For other tasks floor fitters can often manage with a rotary disc sander.

Carpet or floor stripper With the help of a carpet or floor stripper you can easily loosen floor coverings such as carpet, vinyl, and linoleum, but also tile floors and parquet from concrete and wooden substrates. Carpet strippers make small thrusting motions with a flat and sharp section which you position against the edge of carpet, vinyl, linoleum, parquet, tiles, and such like. In this way you can use the stripper to remove the floor covering easily thrust by thrust. One of the major differences between carpet strippers is the number of strokes per minute. Usually, the number of strokes per minute is about five thousand.

Weights As we have said, there is a direct link between the choice of tool and the surface to be covered. In the medium-large and larger tools we see weights of 50 to 100kg, usually with the option of adding extra weight. Weights of 160 to 200kg are perfectly possible with big workhorses. Remember that the heaviest belt sanders weigh around 80kg. For very large surfaces there are ride-on floor strippers.

Width of the blade The more carpet you have to remove, the wider the carpet stripper can be. The bigger the blade surface, the more carpet you can strip in one go. The working width of carpet strippers varies from 20 to 35 centimetres. Most strippers are equipped with a wide range of blades, depending on the type of floor covering to be removed. The blades can usually be changed in no time at all.

Power Capacity varies greatly between 1500 and 2600 watts. As is the case for other site tools, cable-free tools are certainly preferred, partly for safety reasons. Carpet strippers have powerful motors (drive motors and cylinder motors). We found an example of the autonomy of batteries with a ride-on appliance of about 1 tonne which can work for about 8 hours with a fully charged battery.

Two specialists Janser

Rotary disc sanders In previous editions we have often outlined the various possible uses of the disc machines. It’s all very impressive. These machines still have a huge variety of uses partly due to developments in the abrasives with which rotary disc machines can be fitted. When these machines are equipped with hard abrasive materials (brushes, blades, or heads) they can as it were ‘scrape’ the screed. And so, old remains of carpet or adhesive, putty, and such like are removed with no problem at all.

The job determines the type Removing a sports floor from the primary school gymnasium or removing linoleum from the bedroom of a busy terraced house are completely different jobs, aren’t they? Depending on the type of job, you have to decide on the blade width, weight, and capacity of the most suitable machine in order to complete the job effectively. As regards models, the assortment ranges from hand tools weighing about 3 to 4kg to ride-on tools weighing even up to 1 tonne. After that, tools are divided up according to weight and capacity.

Floor Forum International 107

As well as an extensive assortment of sanding machines, Janser also offers an impressive range of strippers. These include smaller hand tools to real ride-on giants to tackles large surfaces with no problem at all. The STRATO MOBIL IV stands out at once in the middle range, a light heavyweight amongst the hydraulic pusher machines (190kg and a

maximum speed of 17m/min). The powerful motor is equipped with the hydraulic-direct-drive system and yields a good result with little noise. The machine is self-driving both forwards and in reverse. Weights can be removed for transport. In addition to Jansers existing range of Battery (ADB) and 230 V (JUNIOR) Ride-On Removal machines the company introduced the Electro Cable Ride-On Version. This machine is 1480mm long by 654mm wide, has two powerful motors which are both 1100W, and a speed of 35m/min. The weight starts at 470kg, but obviously this can be increased. The machine meets all the requirements of a professional tool: 1. It is easy to operate and the tools are controlled hydraulically. 2. It works silently and there are no fumes. 3. The working surface is in the height and adjustable as regards angle. 4. There is no pivot loss and the tyres do not leave any marks. 5. It is easy to transport, load, and unload, it fits in lifts, and goes through standard-size doors. 6. It offers an extensive choice of working surfaces. 7. There are various options for weight increase.

design makes it ideal for use in tight spaces. National Flooring Equipment 6280 (HD) The Commander 6280 is a self-propelled walking scraper. The compact design makes this machine ideal for use in confined spaces. Wolff Turbo Stripper This machine is used for the professional removal of all refined floor coverings, but also for rubber floors and sports floors. Wolff Durostripper The Durostripper is used for the professional removal of textile floor coverings, PVC and Linoleum. HTC Start & Grind With this new line of floor sanders from HTC, the emphasis is on user-friendliness and ergonomics. Repex 4D This multifunctional sander is suitable for the preparation of the subfloor and the removal of old glue to sanding wooden floors.

Overmat Industries Various machines from Overmat Industries offer a solution for preparing and stripping an old floor! National Flooring Equipment 5280 This hydraulically driven, forward self-propelled scraper reduce operator fatigue while optimizing time and labor savings. The compact

Professional Flooring Technology

t classes! Floor Scrapers in suitable weigh German Quality

Power-Stripper 14 kg

Ride-on ADB HS 1180 kg

COSMO IV 39 kg

MASTER MOBIL III 105 kg

Ride-on ADB HS 950 kg

STRATO MOBIL IV 190 kg

Your projects - our equipment - your success!

Ride-on Electro 565 kg

JUNIOR Ride-on 420 kg

Janser GmbH BĂśblinger StraĂ&#x;e 91 Tel. 07034/1270 D-71139 Ehningen Fax 07034/8838 www.janser.com info@janser.com 49

Floor Forum International 107

Advertorial

Progress Profiles (I)

PROGRESS PROFILES: 35 YEARS OF SUCCESS, HIGH-QUALITY, MADE IN ITALY MATERIALS

For 35 years Progress Profiles, world leader Italian manufacturer of technical and decorative finishing profiles and fixing/laying systems including membranes for construction and interior design, developed and patented over 14,000 new products and 14 systems adopting cutting-edge technologies, to offer practical and design solutions. The venetian firm is known in Italy and all over the world for its attention to the latest trends of the contemporary architecture and to details, but also thanks to their innovative systems that meet all functional and aesthetic requirements for every residential or business environment, indoors or outdoors space. Progress Profiles is synonymous of quality, professionalism and reliability: a goal reached thanks to the long experience gained over the years and to the constant investments in qualified

Floor Forum International 107

personnel, in the latest generation machinery and to the attention for the Research & Development department. With its main Headquarter in Asolo (TV) and three subsidiaries in New Jersey, United Arab Emirates and Australia, Progress Profiles became a benchmark in the Italian and international markets. From Europe to Eurasia, from Middle East to the USA, stall to India, China, Far East and Oceania, exports reach a total of more than 70 countries, accounting for 40% of total turnover. In June 2019, Progress Profiles opened its first 200 sq. mt. temporary showroom in LAB Paris, very close to the OpĂŠra Garnier in Paris, where it has exhibited the wide range of innovative products and solutions to French customers and professionals. For the venetian company, France represents a very important market where it gains market

shares registering a 15% grow in the first six months of 2019 thanks to an established local suppliers and distributors network too. This experience allowed Progress Profiles to export the best Made in Italy in one of the greatest European capital, strengthening its position in the area and their relationships with French-Language countries and customers. Thanks to high-quality material, functionality, refined aesthetic and 100% Made in Italy design of products, Progress Profiles continues to be a main reference point for all customers, architects and designer looking for Italian design and technological systems. Moreover, the Italian firm pays attention to sustainability for all production process, as well as using recycled/regenerated material for new products in order to have the minimum impact of its quality. More info on www.progressprofiles.com

FOCUS ON PRODUCTS: PROMULTIFIX SYSTEM Progress Profiles patented an innovative system, Promultifix System, in respect of a wide range of aluminum profiles covered with very strong films in 77 wooden finishes available (55 on demand) and 6 anodized finishes (3 on demand). Suitable for finishing laminate, melamine-coated, parquet and wood floating floors, Promultifix System is composed of a special TOP with adhesive in anodized aluminum or covered with wood-effect film. It has a visible surface of 44.7 mm and height of 4.3 mm and can be used to connect floors to different levels, to cover joints, to join floors at the same level or to finish the flooring along the perimeters. Promultifix TOP can be fixed to the floor in different ways: with the hotmelt self-adhesive peel & stick to guarantee a strong adhesion; with nylon anchors inserted into the TOP; with a support provided with removable spacers in the desired height; inserting a â&#x20AC;&#x153;flatten down baseâ&#x20AC;? into the TOP.

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Repairing substrates: who has the products for this purpose?

PRODUCTS TO IMPROVE THE SCREED BECAUSE THE COVERING FLOOR JUST HAS TO BE 100% PERFECT

Photo – Bostik

It seems logical that the screed has to be suitable for glueing floors. We can also apply that rule to levelling the screed. Just as the screed has to meet certain requirements in order to establish an adhesive bonding with the glue, it also has to meet certain requirements in order to bond with a levelling agent. Improving the screed is very often absolutely essential for fitting parquet. Makers certainly offer a whole range of solutions.

Screed reinforcement

Improving a screed will more often prove necessary in renovation than with a new construction. Today’s technology means that the correct dosing for the screed is almost self-explanatory (it is done mechanically and automatically) so that the intrinsic quality demands are generally satisfied from the beginning. The fact that the dosing is ideal obviously does not mean that each new screed is suitable for direct glueing, as we will see below.

It is clear that a screed reinforcement has a completely different purpose to that of an adhesive primer. A screed reinforcement is used if the screed does not have the necessary strength to cope with the forces of wood and adhesive. For instance, it is absolutely impossible to glue a floor to a powdery screed. Screed reinforcement products are highly fluid, so they are capable of completely saturating the micropores of the screed. They are available in one or two components. The water from the reinforcement product guides the reinforcing resin molecules (acrylate and stone acrylate) into the screed to create an acceptable cohesion. The drying time of the reinforcement is absolutely essential. Especially with mono-component PU adhesives and MS polymers, inadequate drying time may block the polymerisation of the adhesive so that it does not bond.

The effect of primers

Levelling agents

In renovation projects the porosity of the screed is seldom homogeneous. If we have taken away the old flooring, we often also have to remove adhesive residue; it immediately becomes clear that this residue is more stubborn in some places than in others. Since this adhesive residue will not have penetrated into the screed in the same way everywhere, you get places which are more or less porous than others. Using a primer is the perfect way to eliminate differences in porosity. The primers on the market are easy to spread and they level the absorbent capacity of the screed so that subsequently the

A level screed is vital. As we have already said, any unevenness will ‘show up’ or even magnify in the final floor. Levelling can be necessary with renovation, but also with a new construction. Most levelling agents are self-levelling and dry rapidly. The products are highly fluid so that they look to establish themselves at the same level everywhere (connected vessels), but due to the rapid drying it is advisable to use a spatula or a wiper to give the product some help. In all cases the leveller has to be spread quickly. And so, it is best never to make too much levelling agent and certainly no more than what you can spread in 15 to

How do we improve what?

adhesive or, first, the levelling agent can establish good adhesion everywhere.

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20 minutes. The time needed for glueing onto a levelling agent varies from 2 to 30 hours. That is also usually the time needed for applying a second layer of levelling agent if you have to eliminate a greater difference in level. Most levelling agents have a filler capacity of 1-10mm per layer. With several layers it is necessary with some brands to sprinkle in quartz sand between layers. The surface can then be walked on after the fitting within one to three hours.

Moisture protection With certain moisture percentages it is better to postpone fitting the floor. However, sometimes that is not possible, so a solution is necessary. There are various chemical treatments for safeguarding the screed. This solution for glued floors can obviously also be used for floating floors, but usually not vice versa. We draw a distinction here between primers and epoxy screens. The most popular primers are those based on polyurethane. Some of those primers are primarily screed reinforcement products, but they also act as a damp screen if they are applied in two layers. Apart from these PU primers, there are also dispersion-based damp screens. An epoxy damp screen is still the best guarantee against excess residual damp.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the market? Bostik Bostik offers products which provide a solution to various problems: - Levellers for various screeds and applications. - Bostik Renogrund PU Rapid: a fast-drying mono-component screed reinforcement product. - Nibosan Easy and Eponal 342 can be used to repair cracks in the screed. - Eponal 336 is a damp screen for dealing with rising damp, regardless of the moisture percentage. - Primatech is a primer for sealed screeds; it ensures that levelling agents bond. The compatibility of the primers with other products is not tested and therefore cannot be guaranteed. Usually, such combinations work well, but it is still nevertheless advisable to complete the full finish with products from the same trader. The cost price of a repair operation depends on the application and the screed. Good screed preparation obviously does cost money, but it represents merely a small portion of the total price. Bostikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s star products are Niboplan Direct (levelling agent) and Eponal 336 (damp screen).

Chimiver PRYMER SF 1105 is a two component water-based epoxy primer. It is a multipurpose primer recommended as antidust, consolidating and damp proof membrane (DPM) on cement subfloors until 5% CM. After proper sanding, it can be applied also over anhydrite subfloors by diluting it with 10% of tap water. It has very low viscosity which provides an extreme easiness in application and helps the product to penetrate better into the surface consolidating and fixing it. Total quantity for antidust and consolidation is 150 grams/m2; for moisture barrier and on quite friable surface the suggested quantity is 500 grams/m2. The

primer can be also applied over heated floors as antidust treatment. When the subfloor has very low absorption, PRYMER SF 1105 could create a film on surface; in this case, spread some quartz (diameter 0,6 mm) on to the wet surface after the second coat. The excess of quartz has to be removed with a broom. After 12 hours from the last coat applied, any kind of reactive 1k or 2k adhesives can be applied over surfaces treated with our PRYMER SF1105.

Tover Professionals meet several types of issues related to supports: too high humidity level, poor, dusty, uneven or cracked subfloors. Tover proposes a complete range of primers which enable a secure and long lasting laying. In order to create a vapour barrier (DPM) and to harden the sub-floor surface, the mono-component polyurethane solvent free primer PRIMER PU100 is particularly suitable even for heating flooring. To fix the dust on the surface NANO-FIX water-based primer has excellent results. If the support shows cracks, we recommend to use ADEBLOK T19, two-component solvent free epoxy primer, mixing it with sand to get a synthetic mortar with high filling properties. On the ground floor, in case of humidity rising, we do recommend the three-component primer IDROBLOK C3, able to permanently block water migration into the wood even on a non-absorbent support.

Thomsit Thomsit has solutions for various problems like damp, frailty, cracks and splits, dirt, oil, or old glue residue. These products are usually compatible to those of other brands, yet Thomsit prefers works from a one-brand system. According to Thomsit, there are certainly universal primers to solve many of the aforementioned problems, but none to cover all problems in one product. The Thomsit best-sellers are Thomsit R 729 Silicate Cast Resin for filling cracks, Thomsit R 766 Multiprimer for priming, Thomsit R 755 Damp Screen for keeping out damp, Thomsit R 790 Filler and Primer for filling joints and priming in one operation, TF 201 Thomsit Floor membrane for covering a bad floor without dismantling it, and Thomsit RS Fix for removing unevenness and differences in height.

Floor Forum International 107

Special

Dispersion adhesives for LVT, PVC, and vinyl floors

THE SUCCESS OF VINYL IS GOOD FOR DISPERSION ADHESIVES HOW ONE FORM OF TECHNOLOGY CAN AFFECT ANOTHER

Photo – Tover

As regards different types of glueing, we have explained the difference between chemical and physical glueing adequately in the past. As we have often said, with parquet it is largely the type of wood and the type of substrate which determine the most suitable adhesive. That applies equally to glueing flexible floors. Room conditions (e.g. damp and oxygen) almost always play a part. Together with some PU adhesives, dispersion adhesive is generally promoted as ‘the adhesive par excellence’ for flexible flooring.

Economic interchanges We often see how a particular product category ‘booms’ as a result of the success of another category. Of course, it can happen the other way round as well; the demise of a particular market has a downwards and sometimes destructive effect on a whole series of related markets or ancillary markets. Note how the bankruptcy of an airline company affects many other companies. Thankfully, as regards dispersion adhesives it is not the case that they are geared specifically to one segment. On the contrary, they are versatile and, as a form of technology, have withstood the ravages of time.

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Adhesives in the construction sector The adhesive world in the construction industry has been shaken up considerably in recent years. New forms of technology have seen the light and are merging into the wonder of so called ‘hybrid’ glues, compositions of the best of the best, the absolute ultimate: glues made to suit an application. For flexible floors, however, dispersion adhesives are still the preferred choice par excellence.

Flexible flooring At present, it is that very flexible flooring market which is ‘booming’ the most in the flooring world. The specific properties of wood on the one hand and vinyl or PVC on the other are totally different. Wood is open in structure, whilst these floors are smooth and sealed. Wood is a hard material, whilst these floors are flexible. Since a PVC floor can absorb the damp in the glue, an adhesive is needed which can cope with semi-wet or almost dry glueing. On the one hand, these materials swell and shrink a lot less than wood (so that we don’t look for elastic adhesives) and on the other hand the adhesive has to be strong enough to prevent the joints from becoming visible over time. To increase the dimensional stability

of the glue even more, reinforcement fibres can be added to the dispersion. Apart from dispersion adhesives, a number of producers still promote their universal polyurethane adhesives for glueing flexible flooring securely.

Two specialists Blanchon

Some points for attention Storage Dispersion adhesives are stored in their original factory packaging. Since dispersion adhesives contain water, they have to be protected from freezing cold. The storage temperature is between 10 and 20°C. It is advisable not to store the jars on a concrete floor, but preferably on wooden pallets. The shelf life of dispersion adhesives obviously depends largely on their composition, but in sealed packaging they can be stored for up to a year.

Preparation Dispersion adhesives are supplied ready for use. In some cases it is permissible to add a little water to adapt the viscosity. In all cases it is necessary to stir the adhesive thoroughly before use. The adhesive is odourless, incombustible, and harmless to the user. Dispersion adhesives are spread above the temperature at which a film forms (usually 15°C). The moisture content of the parts to be glued is extremely important (8-12%).

Application Dispersion adhesives are applied on one side with a brush, spatula or trowel, an adhesive roller, a gun, or cylinder. It is essential for dispersion adhesives that the substrate is homogeneous. In the case of parquet adhesive a strongly absorbent substrate has to be treated first with a primer. Substrates which are not flat enough need to be levelled first. Once the adhesive has been applied, the floor sections are fitted immediately so that the adhesive is not exposed to air for too long.

Silane adhesives can be used perfectly well for flexible floors. Their special features make these adhesives extremely versatile and the beneficial features also work for flexible floors. A ‘floor specialist’ who uses them for parquet can use them just as well for flexible floors. In this context Blanchon presents the hybrid polymers AB 1300 (traditional glueing up to 130mm wide and 260mm for multilayer) and AB 2000 (up to 200mm and 400mm for multilayer). These are available in pliable aluminium bags of 6kg and packed in pairs in cardboard. These adhesives are flexible and elastic, they offer excellent adhesion, they are easy to apply, and they provide a firm adhesive groove. They are in class AC1R. In aluminium sausage packaging there is the ‘Adhesive on One Side’ (‘Colle en Cordon’). Finally, specially for the joints of (indoor!) Blanchon presents the ‘Ship Deck Joint’ (‘Joint Pont de Bateau’). The latter two are less suitable for this purpose.

Tover

Viscosity Generally, we can say that LVT adhesives vary in viscosity. They have a much lower viscosity because they have to be applied very thinly, often with a roller or fine notched trowel. This is in contrast to a parquet adhesive where the standing time of the adhesive grooves is essential.

Dry glueing Adhesives for flexible floors (e.g. LVT or PVC) are also of a different type because the type of material to be glued is totally different (flexible versus non-flexible – smooth sealed substrate versus wood, which has a more open structure). Since an LVT or a PVC floor can hardly absorb the moisture in the adhesive, you need an adhesive which can cope with semi-wet or almost dry glueing.

Lower sideways pulling force These materials swell and shrink a lot less than wood, and that implies different demands as regards elasticity. The adhesive and subfloors are put under much less strain (fewer sideways pulling forces) than with wooden floors. Nevertheless, the glue has to be strong enough to make a durable bonding.

Permanent or non-permanent Another distinction which we can draw for flexible floors is that between permanent and non-permanent glueing. Some adhesives allow non-permanent glueing, and this means that the flooring can be removed without damaging the subfloor. That is the case, for instance, with a modified polymer-acrylate bonding.

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We can supply offer Ms polymer adhesives to bond LVT, PVC, rubber and linoleum on any subfloor including under-heating . The main advantage of our reactive glue Tovcol MS LVT is that you can use it in damp rooms like kitchens or bathrooms as it is highly resistant to humidity. We have developed a specific version for vertical application on walls: Tovcol MS LVT WALL does not leak or let the covering slip. Moreover they are both perfectly suitable for commercial and industrial areas.

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∂ Industry news FN Neuhofer named 2020 Company of the Year The editorial staff of the trade magazine “Holzdesign” has chosen FN Neuhofer as the 2020 Company of the Year in the subcontractor category. The Austrian family-owned company, now in its tenth generation, convinced the panel in particular on account of its ongoing and sustainable investments in its Zell am Moos location. A great deal has already been invested there in terms of expansion, with additions and new buildings for logistics and production, and an architectural vision is already in place. It was only in September that the ground-breaking ceremony for the new employee parking area and the creation of two left-hand turn lanes on the A-road constituted the realisation of a further milestone in achieving this “Vision 2025”. An area of 5,700 m² will provide space for about 200 vehicles, and charging stations for electric cars are also envisaged. Completion is already scheduled for before the holidays. “We’re very pleased about this award and we feel validated as a result to continue pursuing our chosen path”, the managing director, Franz Neuhofer, said.

SAICOS The SAICOS Triple - product launch meets „spirit of times“ It all started as a trend and developed to a movement that influences the present and future. Environmental protection, resource-saving manufacturing processes and sustainable products are becoming increasingly important. The future is green and SAICOS is right at the cutting edge with three new indoor and outdoor products. With the Ecoline products SAICOS fulfils the demand for ecological products since more than a decade now. Especially the Decking Oil H2O and the Ecoline Hardwax-Oil Zero are the new highlights within the product range. For the first time these products were presented at Domotex in Hanover, hall 013, stand A32. For the do-it-yourselfer: SAICOS Decking Oil H2O

Celebrating a barbecue party without worrying about possible splashes of fat, beer or wine stains. The solvent-free SAICOS Decking Oil H2O can make it happen. SAICOS developed an innovative and ecological

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product that meets current standards. Easy application with the SAICOS Flat Brush or Floor Brush enables the do-it-yourselfer to protect wooden decking and garden furniture from all kinds of weather conditions. The transparent and open porous water-based coating emphasizes the natural beauty of wood and creates a slip resistant surface. For the professional: SAICOS Ecoline Hardwax-Oil Zero

Especially in the working environment high quality products and easy application are very important. With the SAICOS Ecoline Hardwax-Oil Zero a product is being launched that meets the demands of craftsmen as well as the environment. The solvent-free hardwax-oil is created for all kinds of wooden and cork floors as well as for heavily used wood surfaces indoors. The hardwax-oil is being applied with a SAICOS Double Blade Scraper and equalized cloud-free with a single-disc machine afterwards. To gain a more robust surface the SAICOS Additive Hardener 2K can be added. Special highlight: even as the 2K version the product keeps being solvent-free. The surface convinces with a high abrasion resistance and durability - high heels and spilled food can not harm it. As a healthy living wood finish the product is also breathable. The owners can therefore look forward to an ecological and easy-to-clean coating with a long shelf life. Naturally renovation is possible without sanding. For all: SAICOS Universalimpregnation

Thanks to the ingenious formulation, SAICOS Universalimpregnation can be used outdoors under both water and oil based SAICOS finishes. As a protection against weather influences and humidity the impregnation works against blue stain, rot and wood-destroying insects. It also reduces the swelling and shrinking of the wood. Thanks to the easy processing with the SAICOS Flat Brush, the Aqua-Roller or the Universal Roller “Small”, the impregnation is also suitable for inexperienced do-it-yourselfers. More information and application videos can be found here: www.saicos.de/en

Special

Poland

POLAND IS STILL A LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES ECONOMIC MAVERICK AND THE ‘BEST STUDENT’ IN THE CLASS Since 1989, the year in which the Berlin Wall fell and ‘Solidarność’ came to power, Poland has undergone a radical economic development. The country has come a long way; economically, Poland was once roughly on a par with countries like Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Rumania. Today, however, it has left those countries standing and in terms of GDP per inhabitant has even overtaken Hungary, which, together with the former Czechoslovakia, was once the most promising country in Central and Eastern Europe. Poland is still the undisputed number one on the parquet market.

that could motivate them to stay here in Poland. Moreover, who knows, we might even tempt young people who are working in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, or Ireland to return.’ Premier Mateusz Morawiecki’s team estimate that about two million Poles are eligible for the exemption. However, the measure has met with a degree of scepticism. People have pointed out that the plan was launched for the first time in the run up to the European elections at the end of May and it will come into force in the run up to parliamentary elections in the spring of this year. This has a whiff of populism and electoral manoeuvres about it.

Creative measures By and large, the Polish economy is doing well and Poland will be an attractive market for European companies and others in the next few years. The vast national market of 38 million inhabitants, the impressive GDP growth figures, the population’s rising spending power, and infrastructure works completed thanks to EU funds (which benefit Poland most of all) are decisive factors.

The Polish construction market will be one of the fastest growing markets in Europe in the coming years. Over 300,000 companies operate in the construction industry and the sector offers work to almost one million people. Fewer than 1% of companies employ over 100 people, but they are responsible for over 30% of the total turnover in the industry. Poland stands out in various sectors and the wooden flooring market is one of them.

Responsible development

A parquet country

(Source: FIT) Mateusz Morawiecki, the current prime minister, was previously minister for economic affairs. In his former position he devised his ‘Plan for responsible development’ in which he developed a number of measures to take up this challenge. Those measures were also designed to increase the weight of Polish companies in the Polish economy (the share of foreign investments in GDP formation exceeds 30% and for Polish exports that figure is even above 50%). The plan provides for reindustrialisation to lead to more productive enterprises and more high-quality jobs (in sectors such as aviation, defence, car parts, ship building, IT, the chemical industry, and food), the promotion of the development of innovative companies (e.g. the start of a programme of ‘electric mobility’), the provision of more Polish development capital, the promotion of international enterprise by the Polish business world, and the development of disadvantaged regions (plus a rise in government investment there).

65,603,120m² of parquet were produced in Europe in 2017, an increase of 2.53% as compared to the previous year. Consumption rose by 1.70% to 77,014,520m². In terms of parquet production Poland is still the undisputed leader amongst FEP countries with no less than 20.08% in 2017. Sweden is next with 17% and then Austria with 14.02%. As for consumption Poland lags behind near the bottom with 5.12%. The bottom three countries are Hungary, Czech Republic, and Rumania. Poland has all the ingredients of a real parquet country. It has a plentiful supply of wood and excellent quality oak. The oak is different to French oak (somewhat softer) or Slavonian oak (even more stable), but has a very attractive wood structure and is highly reliable.

Young people exempt from tax (Source: De Tijd) The conservative government has decided from 1 August of last year to exempt those aged under 26 from income tax. Leszek Skiba, Polish vice-minister of finance, explains: 'The measure has a dual purpose. On the one hand, we hope to get young people onto the job market sooner and, on the other hand, we’re trying to slow down the migration of young people to Western Europe where they can usually earn a higher salary.’ The Polish government has calculated that this measure means that a young employee is 18% better off at the end of each month. Mr Skiba continues: 'If Polish young people aged under 26 see that the gap between the net salary here and that in Western Europe is diminishing,

Construction and wooden floors

Technology and know-how Moreover, the Poles possess increasingly high-tech production sites which produce just about all types of parquet from traditional solid parquet to multilayer engineered floors. It is no surprise that they call upon the help of foreign specialists. For instance, Blanchon, the 180-year-old specialist in parquet finishes, is active in Poland with its own branch and a local team in Warsaw for the entire territory. They assist parquet traders, industry, painters, and furniture makers. Blanchon has an outstanding reputation in Poland for its oils and glazers and is regarded as ‘essential’.

Consumption will grow With the increasing prosperity (per head of population) as a result of the economic growth, we can assume that national consumption of parquet will increase gradually and that will further stimulate the growth of production. In other words, Poland is doing well economically and that also benefits the parquet market.

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∂ Product news CIRANOVA: THE ULTIMATE INVISIBLE FINISH As a trendsetter in invisible finishes, Ciranova developed the Ciranova Plus range in open innovation with DSM. The new products are OCULTO PLUS, ECOFIX PLUS and WOODLOOK PLUS. The Ciranova plus range is a new and improved range of products for the ultimate invisible finishing of your indoor wood. For the Ciranova Plus range, a Decovery biobased self-matting resin is used which delivers excellent Performance, ensures a safer & healthier environment and reduces the carbon footprint. Decovery® is a family of eco-friendly coating resin solutions with a difference: they are made primarily from plants. As the heart & soul of biobased paint, Decovery® literally binds the product together, delivering a fine and durable finish.

NOVOWOOD: SKIN PRO CLADDING During Domotex 2020 Novowood presented its new product SKIN PRO, this particular profile is studied especially for projects and allow the architects to choose the final effect of the cladding combining different section on the wall and making a total customizable aesthetic effect. Premium finishing on the surface give to the material an unparallel touching effect and allow architects to make a personalized design effect on the cladding. Available starting from March 2020 profile can be supplied with aluminium special understructure and clips fixing system.

RENZO BORGONOVO Renzo Borgonovo Srl has optimized its hot embossing machines with the new, fully electrical heating system by electrical lamps, for a much safer and cleaner hot embossing process. This system, firstly introduced around one year ago and firstly exhibited at Ligna 2019, is having an outstanding success, for its guarantees of security and top quality finishing results. Please contact us to find more, and take a look at our YouTube Electrically Heated Hot Embossing machines Playlist, scanning the QR code on the right!

STAUF: AKZENT – THE COMPLETE NATURAL RANGE FOR WOOD SURFACES With the introduction of the AKZENT product line, STAUF has revitalised its range of surface treatments. By making modifications, STAUF was able to achieve significantly better product properties for practically all the surface treatment products and to ensure simpler handling at the same time. For users and customers, this means a perceptible added value in comparison to previous products. The name of the newly developed surface treatment range was chosen with care, to reflect the “accentuation” of high-quality cleaning, care and treatment of wood flooring and surfaces. Naturalness, variety and longevity characterise every single product in the AKZENT range – whether varnishes or oils, cleaning or care products, first-time or refit treatments. “In the selection and development of our AKZENT products, we deliberately used environmentally friendly raw materials and water-based mixes wherever possible”, explains Artur Podkowa, head of Application Engineering. “This has resulted in outstanding product properties that ensure the greatest possible protection and resistance and also guarantee a particularly healthy living environment.”

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