FFI December 2022

D UST-FREE SANDING MADE EASY

BONA DCS 50 – LIGHT, EFFECTIVE AND VERSATILE

The Bona innovative and highly effective dust containment system is now even more user-friendly. Bona DCS 50 is with its light weight, versatile use for dry and wet sanding, and effective dust containment, truly an agent for clean air sanding of floors.

With the Bona DCS 50 you get a light and handy version with nearly the same effectiveness as its bigger brother Bona DCS 70. It can be used with all Bona sanding machines and make clean sanding of floors possible even in an apartment house with many stairs or small bedrooms.

Preview Domotex Hannover (D)

Special LVT, PVC, vinyl and laminate: click systems examined, a survey

Special Hungarian point and herringbone pattern in laminate, PVC, vinyl or LVT

Advertorial Progress Profiles (I)

Special Who has lacquers specifically for wooden staircases?

Special Extra long and wide parquet/wooden floors

Who has lacquers which apply a finish in one coat?

Special Producers of levelling agents : which thicknesses can we apply in one treatment and what about the drying time?

Special Skirting boards in metal or aluminium

“EXTRA EXTRA”

At Forestry Timber Holdings, we are seeing an increased demand for extra-wide and extra-long planks, combined with a persistent shift to lighter mid-blond and neutral, mid-brown tones. The clean lines of extra-wide and extra-long planks make every room look larger. With fewer visible seams the natural beauty of the wood is accentuated, adding an old-world sophistication, and creating a distinctive look for any interior design.

Special Who produces industrial parquet ?

Pampellonne (General Manager Forestry Timber)

Extra-wide and extra-long planks can cost more than standard-width planks and a common concern, especially in solid hardwood, is the stability of such a large plank. By contrast, our engineered hardwood flooring with a cross-laminated Hevea core is ideal for manufacturing wider and longer planks as it is more stable and resistant to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. We produce precision milled planks up to 400mm wide and up to 4 metres in length, with nearly every plank being full length. Width increments are 240mm, 290mm, 340mm and 400mm nominally.

Fashion beyond plank

As mentioned, hardwood flooring colours are trending to light mid-blond to warm brown tones, with an ultra matt finish. This range of colour has a timeless appeal and can be rustic, casual, modern, or chic, depending on your décor.

You may have noticed that pattern and parquetry have been working their way back into fashion. We are producing much more Herringbone and Chevron pattern, as well as multi-width planks of varying lengths to make a space more customized.

Deep to subtle textures found in the time-worn patina of 17th century French manor plank floors is a developing fashion in homes. Our craftsmen at Forestry Timber use specialized, yet subtle hand-tooled and brushed buffeting techniques along with reactive stain coloration to create luxuriously varied colours, textures and patterns.

Values beyond trends

We use only legally sourced and harvested timber from sustainably managed forests – and feature Western European Oak, European Ash, American Pecan and Tasmanian Oak, among others. The core of our engineered hardwood flooring is made from our regional plantation wood and our planks are 100% environmentally friendly, with zero waste and zero emissions to exceed worldwide compliance standards.

Overall, consumers are looking for flooring that reflects their values, with respect and honour for the environment, bringing natural beauty into their homes and workspaces.

Forestry Timber Holdings is a family-owned and operated business, committed to creating high-end, luxury products to the flooring market, worldwide. For more information, or to find one of our many distributors worldwide, please visit any one of our brand websites: Woodline Parquetry, TimberTop, FloorArt Parquetry, Elyseum Fertigparkett, or Sienna Parquetry, or contact any one of our sales team and they will be more than happy to help.

Editing & advertisements

FFI bvba PO BOX 29 9870 Olsene, Belgium Tel: +32 (0)475/44 20 77 sales@media-pact.com www.floor-forum.com

Publisher Filip De Ridder

Lay-out: Be-able Communicationwww.be-able.be

Production: Lowyck - Oostende

Advertising & subscriptions

Filip De Ridder sales@media-pact.com Adriana Dascalu info@media-pact.com Hilde De Ridder floorforum@telenet.be

Editors: Jan Hoffman Ludwig Janssens † Jean Paul Talbot Filip De Ridder Jacques Legros

Translation: Michael Robinsonwww.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.

Photo Forestry Timber

Anna-Marie

DOMOTEX 2023 (12 to 15 January):

DOMOTEX 2023: The World of Flooring Cozy rugs, elegant parquet flooring, splendid oriental carpets or stylish decorative floor coverings: DOMOTEX 2023 presents the world's latest trends and innovations in floor coverings from 12 - 15 January 2023 in Hannover, Germany.

The heart of DOMOTEX is green

The GREEN COLLECTION puts the spotlight on sustainability! This area in hall 23 is the point of reference for anyone seeking information about sustainable products, consisting of curated exhibitor contributions, a presentation corner featuring current research projects, a creative material-show presented by raumprobe and an inspiring conference program with contributions from speakers from politics, associations, interior design and trade.

Mood Spaces – Inspiring room installations

The new DOMOTEX Mood Spaces are an exciting source of inspiration for retailers and interior designers that represent the latest furnishing trends and reflect the interplay between floor coverings and interior design. Renowned designers such as Holly Becker, Mark Braun, Peter Fehrentz, Sebastian Herkner and Studio Besau-Marguerre are participating in the room installations. The Mood Spaces are located in hall 2.

BODEN SCHÄTZE

At this exhibition, textile students present their own designs – from the design process to pattern development to the actual carpets. The students address questions on design and modernity, but also

on contemporary matters such as environmental awareness and the functionality of textile floor coverings.

Supporting conversations within the community

For the first time since the pandemic hit, the global carpet and flooring community can meet again in one place. “This is why we encourage the professional and personal exchange at DOMOTEX 2023”, explains Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of DOMOTEX, and elaborates: “exhibitors and visitors can look forward to our Welcome Back Night, the SKY Lounge as well as daily after-work events during the fair and much more!”

Get 20% discount

now (only via www.dinachoc.fr) on subfloors and all other products from DINACHOC.

Use the discount code FORUM20 on www.dinachoc.fr

Vandecasteele Houtimport (B) receives the “SDG Champion” certificate from UNITAR CIFAL.

During the award ceremony on October 25 2022, in the Africa Museum, Vandecasteele Houtimport received their SDG Champion certificate, together with 6 other Flemish SDG Champions, With the Voka Charter for Sustainable Entrepreneurship (VCDO), Voka offers Flemish companies a framework to translate their sustainability ambitions into practice. Within the charter, an annual action plan tailored to each company is elaborated. This action plan is always based on the five sustainability pillars (People, Prosperity, Peace, Partnership, Planet) and the 17 SDGs (sustainable development goals of the United Nations) By taking the SDGs as a guideline, all sustainability aspects are addressed and international recognition is created. After a successful year, Vandecasteele Houtimport obtained their VCDO certificate for the 21st time in a row, which recognizes and externally validates their efforts. "Companies who want to stand out, are continuing their VCDO trajectory and are aiming for international recognition, awarded by the United Nations. These companies then emerge as SDG Pioneer, or even further as SDG Champion, two international recognitions by the United Nations. A company that has been working successfully on the SDGs for three years can call itself SDG Pioneer. In October 2020, Vandecasteele Houtimport obtained their SDG Pioneer certificate.

Companies that subsequently focus on their core business and realize a pilot project on transition become SDG Champion. Vandecasteele Houtimport has proposed as a transition project to 'only trade in certified timber by 2025'.

About VICstairs

Staircase renovation is sheer craftsmanship. The power of taking the extra step is in the details. And in innovative solutions applied by dedicated fitters. VICstairs has sprung from the brain of true staircase lovers. The result: unique treads made out of one piece. Strong, seamless, and profile-free. For staircases where each tread is perfect, from the bottom to the top. To ensure that every stair enthusiast can have project-quality transfer steps, we distribute our patented LVT treads throughout Europe.

Innovation

VICstairs has developed unique stair treads made out of one piece. Due to this, the stair treads are stronger, seamless, and profile-free. The lifelike treads can quickly and easily be placed by a professional. Due to the natural carving, the matte top layer, and the wide range of looks and colours, VICstairs are pioneers in design and home fashion.

Resilient LVT

There’s a reason why floor manufacturers have a full aim on LVT. The

DOMOTEX

FLOORED BY NATURE

12 – 15 JANUARY 2023

Hannover · Germany domotex.de

The fascination of nature: sustainability, social responsibility and a new awareness of values are the focus of the world‘s leading trade show for floor coverings in 2023 with the keynote theme FLOORED BY NATURE. Discover the latest product trends and room solutions. Be inspired and get in touch with the international industry.

From left to right : Louis Vandecasteele, Flemish Minister of Work, Economy, Innovation and Agriculture Jo Brouns, Isabelle Polfliet, and Hans Maertens Managing Director of VOKA.

material is rapidly replacing laminate, timber, or tiles. Not surprising, because it’s suitable for any purpose: from living room to kitchen and from herringbone to solid oak. With VICstairs, you can extend that exact same look on the staircase. Stylish and strong. Sound-absorbing, moist-resistant and safe. We are offering no less than 15(!) years of guarantee, from the bottom step all the way to the top. The VICstairs system has been developed for both closed and open stairs with a high level of finish. We collaborate with Tarkett, Forbo and IVC among others, to offer you different decors of the treads.

Placed within one day

Our patented system speeds things up enormously. Where a staircase fitter often spends two days with other systems, with VICstairs things are done in one day! And covering glue residue and old staircases. Not a stair fitter in your network yourself? We have trained experienced craftsmen throughout the country, for you to hire. We also offer the opportunity to both advanced and less experienced professionals to follow our inhouse training course. In this way we ensure the perfect staircase together.

The most attractive system for the staircases

With an open staircase, the finishing literally shows itself from all sides. Ugly strips and aluminum edges not only are a thorn in the flesh, they’re also very dangerous. With VICstairs the staircase will shine from top to bottom and from front to back. Perfectly finished to the very last details.

THE DIFFERENT BRANDS OF THE BLANCHON GROUP

From now on, all forces will be bundled with the organization Group Blanchon together with three other strong brands for the treatment and finishing of wood. The Group owes its name to the French market leader Blanchon, but now also includes Ciranova, Ciranova Tech and RIGO the paint factory from the Netherlands which is the ideal leverage to strengthen its position on the Benelux market.

Blanchon originated in France in 1832 and formed the Group Blanchon five years ago as the engine for an internationalization of the brand. Blanchon itself includes products for interior and exterior wood treatment. Last year, the Belgian company Ciranova joined the group, with its strong portfolio of products for interior joinery and with Ciranova Tech, the range of products for industrial customers was also added

The fact that the various brands are now part of the Group Blanchon, is a great added value for the craftsman. We now offer more options through the exchange of knowledge of the various brands. In recent months, the Blanchon Group has therefore invested heavily in training and in exchanges between brands and employees. This year, the Blanchon Group will be present at Houtpro + and for good reason.

The Dutch brand Rigo, the paint factory, has been part of the group since May and this is how we want to further profile ourselves on the Benelux market with a focus on the manufacturer’s wood treatment products. As an umbrella organization for the wood sector, we are even stronger with Rigo in our ranks. Moreover, the brand name Rigo resonates with the Dutch wood processor. In the coming months and years, the Group will continue to focus on Blanchon on the Benelux market.

During the HOUTPRO PLUS trade fair in the Netherlands, we proudly introduced our brand new Group Blanchon. We also presented the four brands that we distribute further in the Benelux.

Firstly Ciranova, the brand for the wood professional looking for unique colors and sensations. Then Blanchon, this is the brand for the wood professional who has many requirements for wood protection, both indoors and certainly also for outdoor projects.

Thirdly, RIGO, the Dutch brand for the wood professional that offers very unique solutions, focused on craftsmanship and efficiency. Finally, Ciranova Tech, the brand for small and large industrial wood processors.

We are the right partner for wood professionals who want to distinguish themselves in terms of quality and efficiency. We have a full range of bio-based products and are ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

For more information visit us on www.ciranova.eu

DOMOTEX IS FINALLY BACK IN 2023 AFTER THREE YEARS

Jos Tourné and Peter Bijlard (Bijlard International - NL)

‘We’re expecting a lot from Domotex, even with fewer exhibitors.’

Bijlard International, based in Zoetermeer in the Netherlands and producer of high-quality adhesives and kits, is taking part in Domotex in Hanover for the fifth time and will be at stand A41 in hall 22. Bijlard employs about 30 people and targets only professionals. We are familiar with the company for its parquet adhesive, but also for its production of wood, polymer, and contact adhesives. At Domotex, that parquet adhesive range will witness the launch of the latest product in the family. We asked owner Peter Bijlard and head of marketing and communication Jos Tourné about the new parquet adhesive and their participation in Domotex in general.

Peter Bijlard begins: ‘This adhesive is so new that we still haven’t made a final decision about what to call it. I can certainly assure readers that it’ll be worth coming along because this version represents a significant improvement in performances as compared to the average parquet adhesive.’

Quality is important, not quantity We’re not revealing any secrets if we say that this first edition of Domotex since the pandemic will attract considerably fewer participants than in the past. Bijlard International continues to attend and gladly explains why.

‘We’re expecting a lot from Domotex, even with fewer exhibitors. We certainly hope that the visitors will return in the same numbers as in the past and that we can make contact with the local market, but actually we have no doubts about that. We can make good use of our time by finally meeting our existing contacts again and not targeting the masses. Bijlard is interested in quality, whilst quantity is a lot less important.’

‘The point is that we as a company want to profile ourselves as attractively as possible during an international show like this,’ Jos Tourné adds. ‘We’re highlighting the development of our products because that’s exactly what professionals consider to be most important.’

Always welcome in Zoetermeer

Bijlard International likes to welcome all clients and potential clients to its offices in Zoetermeer on any working day of the year, with or without a combined visit to the new production hall which they opened last year. On their own premises and at shows they aim to give people the impression that this is a company which treats its clients with the utmost respect.

‘We’re a small player in the adhesive world and this means that we can work very flexibly. We like to show that to our clients, whom we treat as people, not a number,’ Peter Bijlard stresses. ‘If you telephone us, you always get a person on the line and you literally know the person with whom you do business. In addition, we also give a lot of extra consideration in other areas. For instance, does the preparation of a product have to be adapted to specific needs? No problem! Clients ask us and we do the necessary, since for us every tube or bucket counts.’

‘Obviously, there are other important factors as well,’ Jos Tourné adds. ‘Think of delivery times, for instance, which are highly clientfriendly in our case.’

Construction of extra silos

In a previous edition we mentioned the new production hall. During the discussion, it emerged that they have another investment planned for 2023.

‘The organisation of the new production hall is now complete, with an excellent supply and discharge route. Amongst other things, we’ve integrated the mixing machines there, so we’ve disconnected them from the filling lines,’ Peter Bijlard concludes. ‘Next year, we’re going to install a number of silos for the transport of raw materials. This should make our processes even more efficient, so that we can serve our clients even better.’

The organisers have announced that over 700 companies from almost 50 countries have confirmed that they will be taking part. This makes it clear that they want to retain their status as the world’s top trade fair in this market. They have also said that the stress for the restart will be on everything that is innovative, inspirational, and informative. This means the organisers are aiming to offer creative installations, presentations of sustainable products, and an exciting conference programme.

Innovative, inspirational, and informative

Early in November, Sonia Wedell-Castellano, global director of Domotex, issued a press conference statement online. She said: ‘We’re delighted that finally we can once again offer a dynamic and innovative Domotex after such a long time. In January, visitors can enjoy new formats and contact points, as well as lots of inspiration and information in all the exposition rooms.’

One of the highlights will be Domotex on Stage. Throughout this presentation in hall 23 (i.e. in a ‘parquet hall’), the themes of sustainability and the circular economy take centre stage. Domotex on Stage takes place as part of the special display area The Green Collection. Here, interested listeners can expect various informative contributions about the focus themes ‘Connecting Markets’, ‘Conscious Living’, and ‘Colourful Nature’, and this by means of various presentations given by speakers from various professional areas of expertise.

Mood Spaces

What will stand out at Domotex 2023 is the attention paid to the so called Mood Spaces, which stand for inspirational installations in various rooms. These Mood Spaces should constitute a solid source of inspiration for retailers and interior designers. The diverse designs of rooms are the work of five internationally renowned interior architects, who examine the interaction between floor coverings and interior design. They will be working with ‘concept stores’, with demonstrations of what a coherent connection between product combinations looks like in practice.

The Mood Spaces will be put together and designed under the leadership of Holly Becker, an interior designer, blogger, and trend specialist from Hanover. Apart from Holly Becker, renowned designers Mark Braun, Peter Fehrentz, and Sebastian Herkner and the interdisciplinary design duo Studio Besau-Marguerre, consisting of Eva Marguerre and Marcel Besau, will be taking part in the room installations. You will find the Mood Spaces in hall 2.

Parquet Star winners

Various award ceremonies will also be held during Domotex 2023. Apart from the well known Carpet Design Awards (CDA), the winners of the Green Collection and the Parquet Star will also be honoured. The award ceremonies will take place on 12 January as part of Domotex on Stage. The winners of the Green Collection will be announced at 2.00 p.m., followed by the Parquet Star winners, who will receive the award during their own ceremony at 5.00 p.m.

For our sector: halls 22 and 23

Obviously, the key question is where is the best place to go for ‘our’ sector. The answer couldn’t be clearer: Go to halls 22 and 23. There you will find both flexible floor coverings (LVT, PVC, latex, and rubber floor coverings) and parquet and wooden floors and laminate. Also in those halls you will find a large range of outdoor floor coverings and exhibitors will be showing some forms of application and installation technology. The latter will include both practical and theoretical presentations.

For more information: www.domotex.de

Herringbone parquet SIGTUNA

SIGTUNA is a herringbone parquet with click to shorten the project time and facilitate installation. SIGTUNA is in Select sorting and comes with a white matt lacquered surface ready to install.

See the entire collection of colors at www.bjelin.com

For the 9th year in a row, DecoRad Systems UV and LED UV equipment will be shown at the Domotex in Hanover. The high quality and reliability of our products have made the DecoRad brand a global leader in portable on-site UV curing. We also supply proven energy efficient and highly reliable GEN2 LED UV equipment for both industrial and on-site use. We sell our equipment in over 45 countries, directly from stock to the end user.

UV coatings are available for most floor types, both for new factory floors and for renovation. DecoRad Systems has worldwide partnerships with various UV lacquer suppliers and is a member of Radtech Europe, the European association for UV/EB curing technology. All our equipment is developed in-house and produced in our own factory in the Netherlands. Visit our website www.decorad.com for more information. We look forward to seeing you at the Domotex Hannover, Hall 22, stand D46, where we will present our latest products.

Design Parquet

French manufacturer specialized in the production of solid and engineered floors in oak and tropical woods.

We offer trendy floors parquet in more than 50 wood species (unfinished, sanded, varnished, oiled, brushed or stained). Also well known for our custom-made manufacture, our special bathroom floors, and our large range of finishing :

Parket op maat

- DESIGN DECO : a collection with new trendy finishing.

- LOFT PRO : a very stable two-layers parquet for Professional.

- NAVYLAM+ : Patented and guaranteed bathroom parquet floor, easy to lay (NEW SECTIONS)

- Special manufacture of herringbone, panels, worktops, stairs

- ROC varnished : revolutionary new surface treatment for public places...

Visit us in Hall 23 Stand A75

RMG

Polyvinyl India Limited ( Wonderfloor)

RMG Polyvinyl India Limited is a regular exhibitor at Domotex and offers a range of resilient floor vinyl for the DIY segment. Marketed under the brand Wonderfloor, they are a leading Sheet Vinyl and Vinyl Plank manufacturer from India. They cater to segments such as Healthcare, Fitness, Multi Utility, Residential and Semi- Commercial. Manufacturing units located near New Delhi produce more than 30 Million Sq Meters

of PVC sheet flooring and Heavy duty floors and the factory is equipped to cater to the varied demands of the flooring industry and also provide customized solutions as per client requirements. Undoubtedly, they are recepients of the Top Exporter Award from the Plastics Export Promotion Council of India. In addition, they also produce lay flat Dance and Studio Floors which are available in solid colors with cushioning and also the reversible type in black or white or chroma colours. Continued presence at Domotex over the years has earned them reputed clients for Anti skid floorings (coin / checkered etc) and Printed residential floorings aold through a number of DIY Chains all over the European Union, to whom they also offer OEM branding and Packaging. They also produce 1.50 MM thick LVT planks for the Exhibition industry whereby a cost effective flooring solution is offered. RMG welcomes you to their Booth E 75 located in Hall 22 To fix an appointment with them, please write to – info@rmgpoly.com

resin content. High precision AquaProtect technology applies the hydrophobic impregnation agent, avoiding unnecessary overspray, and seals the joint edges of both V-grooved and non-V-Grooved laminate panels. Laminate treated with AquaProtect meets all recognized international laminate water-resistance standards and tests, including NALFA and ISO 4760. www.i4f.com

FN Neuhofer

i4F’s vision is to enhance where people live, work and play with ingenious technologies, from the floor upwards. The group supports the global flooring industry by licensing cutting-edge solutions in the areas of drop-lock technologies - including its water-resistant iClick4U system, digital printing, surface finishing, wall and ceiling systems, board and panel compositions as well as sustainable processes. This year the company will zoom in on process technologies of the future, showcasing new innovations only available via an i4F license. i4F Be-Lite® is a patented, breakthrough technology delivering a more sustainable SPC panel production process to the global flooring industry. Thermoforming technology uses up to 20% less raw materials during the panel core manufacturing process, without compromising on performance. This differs to other existing material savings techniques that remove and recycle materials after the panel production process, creating more waste, costs and CO2emissions linked to transport and the recycling of scrap. A return on investment can be earned within just two weeks. AquaProtect is a high precision, resource saving impregnation technology that protects laminate-core HDF boards from water swell by up to 75%, thus increasing dramatically their overall water-resistance. AquaProtect means standard HDF boards obtain the same moisture-resistance performance as HDF with a 20% higher

Mac Lean Products

Also in 2023, we would like to again demonstrate our strength to innovate.

Domotex 2023 in hall 22, booth A72

yourself of our innovative solutions and novelties, which we will present exclusively at the fair.

Both DIY stores and specialist retailers find in Mac Lean Products a unique, reliable partner under the motto "home of ideas". Mac Lean Products is the innovative partner and specialist, strong in customized concepts, private labels and assortments. We like to make sure you can stand out. At Domotex we concentrate on subfloors, baseboards and accessories, we will show this assortment at Domotex 2023, hall 23 stand A20. We kindly invite you to visit us and exchange ideas.

Nobel Flooring

A deep passion for wood. A keen eye for detail. Years of craftsmanship, combined with the most modern productiontechniques in there factory in Belgium. That’s Nobel. Nobel Flooring is the specialist in XXL boards in European oak or Douglas. Widths from 16 to 60 cm are possible, as are lengths up to 15 m, both solid and engineered. ( 2 ply – 3 ply ). Classic patterns such as herringbone, Hungarian point or custom made to your own design or size, are also produced by Nobel Flooring.

To complete the interior, Nobel also manufactures stair treads, interior doors and cabinetry in the same material, colour and finish to match the parquet. A warm heart for the most beautiful finishes. That’s Nobel too. To guarantee the durability of the parquet or stair treads, Nobel finishes everything with high-quality products in the trendiest colours. Here too, Nobel offers the option of your own colour range or custom finishes. In addition to the esthetic aspect, great importance is also attached to guarantee an easy maintenance of the parquet. The passionate team is determined to deliver that high-quality time

i4F

i4F Exhibiting at Domotex Hannover, Germany Hall 23, Booth Number B15.

Drop-lock – i-click4U – water resistant – water drop

after time again, to take that extra step towards that perfect wooden floor or to make that wonderfully elegant staircase for B2B or B2C. As a leading Belgian parquet manufacturer, Nobel Flooring exports his high-quality parquet worldwide. Whether you are an architect or an interior designer, a project developer or a private individual, Nobel helps you to turn your idea and inspiration into reality. The experienced sales team will be happy to welcome you in their modern showroom in Hoogstraten (BE) or Knokke (BE).

Surf to www.nobelflooring.com for inspiration. Visit us in Hall 22, stand B42.

celebrate 60 years of collaboration and goals achieved together this year at the Domotex Fair, a central trade event in the flooring industry in all its facets, both bringing great news to exhibit. Borgonovo will present a new version of the flagship machine

for wood embossing: Borgore 500 ITI, with a brand new electrical heating system. FNT Trabattoni Stampi Srl company also celebrates the 75th anniversary of its foundation and does so by presenting a new logo and a new coordinated corporate image following the passage of the generational baton in company management. The company, leader in the production of molds and technologies for wood embossing, is in fact channeling its know-how to create innovation within the flooring sector, proposing new three-dimensional embossing finishes on parquet flooring planks, creating unconventional and captivating atmospheres and tactile experiences for the market. We invite you to visit our stand to see the new Borgonovo machine in function and to touch and experience the amazing finishing that these new technologies are giving to the wood surfaces. Visit us in Hall 22, stand B38.

Soest wood flooring finishing machinery

Soest wood flooring finishing machinery is market leader in manufacturing industrial roller coaters, polishing machines, wire brushing machines, (UV) drying tunnels and more for the parquet industry since 1983. Soest delivers worldwide across all continents. The machines we manufacture are well known for their

sturdiness, reliability, innovation and easy usability. For any project it is possible to build special tailor-made machine lines, based up on the specific requirements of the costumer. Support is an essential part of our business philosophy which begins right after the first contact to well after the delivery of the machines. At the Soest factory in Wormerveer - Netherlands, next to their construction factory, we have the largest Test Center in Europe where our full machinery program is available for demonstrations and testing. New from our Test Center, we introduce a technique to make engineered flooring using PUR Hotmelt glue. This technique avoids the stack press, shortens labor time and is allowing to work in line. This is essential to those who need to reduce their production time, resulting in a higher output rate. Gotten curious? You can see our PUR Hotmelt gluing machine in action (and more!) at our stand at Domotex. www.soestbv.com

Hall 22 Stand C32

Välinge Innovation

The future at your feet

Välinge Innovation – known for their game-changing inventions within the flooring and furniture industries are excited to make meaningful connections at the upcoming Domotex trade show. Domotex 2023 brings a great opportunity for the flooring industry to meet, network and show news and advancements again. Välinge, a world-leader within their field, is always ahead of customer needs and desires and deliver thought-through inventions perfectly in tune with market demands. This year is no exception, and they will introduce new technology and show their smart sustainable solutions. – At Välinge we are delighted

to be at Domotex again. We can’t wait to meet potential and existing partners and show them our extensive offer. We aim to be the best possible partner and strive to support with everything from our well-known technologies to our broad network of producers, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and distributors, says Niklas Borgquist, Key Account Manager at Välinge.

Välinge highlights at Domotex

5G® Dry™ – the updated and waterproof version of our popular installation system 5G® Fold Down.

5G® Cross – brand-new technology to make straight-set floor installation easy – with strong and reliable results.

Liteback® – a technology to make thermoplastic floor lighter. Less weight means more efficient transports, easier and safer installation and a smaller environmental footprint.

Woodura® – a surface technology that makes hardwood floors more sustainable and more durable than any traditional option. Please meet us at booth A34 in hall 23 on January 12 to 15.

Greenboar /AC Valquimia

Recyclable adhesive for bonding artificial grass and carpet. Given the growing interest in the market for artificial grass and carpet with easily recyclable backing, the problem of having recyclable adhesives was created. With our GREENBOAR ENETAK RECY, carpets and artificial grass can be recycled regardless of the adhesive residue present. For more information, please contact info@valquimia.com or through www.valquimia.com - Visit us in Hall 019 Stand C101

Photo – Deutsche Messe

THE TILE FORM WHICH NEVER ANNOYS

OLD FITTING PATTERNS SEDUCE NOT ONLY IN SOLID WOOD, BUT ALSO IN MULTILAYER

Before the outbreak of the pandemic, we saw how more and more style panels were being fitted in the Low Countries. The projects were absolutely top class, but households certainly had to pay good money for them. Specific figures aren’t yet available, but over the last two years interest in these style panels, with herringbone and Hungarian Point leading the way, certainly doesn’t seem to have waned, especially in the interior. In fact, the opposite is true.

The producers of these style panels (and we’re only talking about wood here) have seen how the (enforced) extra interest in the interior has continued to give style panels a boost. A style panel, which is sawn fully computerised nowadays and can be supplied in an excellent fit, offers fitters plenty of options in a countless number of wood sorts.

Parquet floor in miniature

First of all, to clear away any misunderstandings, we need to define the concept of a style panel. Actually, what it comes down to is that it’s about large wooden tile forms with an outer edge. A certain pattern is created in that tile form whereby a ‘parquet floor in miniature’ comes into being. With style panels, the sections are generally glued sideways to each other (solid wood 6 or 10mm), and there has been an advance of multilayer for some years now, whilst the solid wood pattern is glued to a subfloor (multiplex).

The names of a number of patterns will always sound familiar. These are almost always fitting patterns from the past where distressed is an option (even if some producers prefer not to hear of it). Very popular, for instance, is Versailles, which we’ve covered extensively in previous editions. To sum up briefly, the Versailles panel presents itself to the outside world as a diagonal wickerwork within a framework of a square edge of parquet strips. The name is derived from the similarly named castle of King Louis XIV, in which the panels are exactly 1m² or 100 x 100cm. They are separated by three strips of 8cm which come together in a corner to form a point.

Stylish variations on a theme

However, there are lots of other options, occasionally with some highly exotic names. Do designs such as Horsovsky panel, Malo panel, Palladio panel, or even Venetian Cross panel sound less familiar? Those are just a few examples of exceptionally stylish variations on a theme. What we certainly should add here is that with solid wood style panels it’s about design floors which are made in advance (in the square) and in which wooden elements are placed according to a fitting pattern. The sections are sawn to measure and mitred and are then glued to each other sideways and held firmly in place to dry. And so, to be specific, it is not necessary to saw anything on site because each panel forms a complete whole in itself. By means of this ‘limitation’ (if you can call it a limitation), most design floors are made customised because the room determines the fitting.

Advance of multilayer

We’ve already said that in recent years it’s been impossible to ignore the emergence of multi-layer panel floors. Here we can note that these often comprise two layers, but that three layers is far from the exception to the rule. With multilayer you often see a top layer of 6mm of noble wood, which is glued onto birch multiplex. Such panels can be fully glued onto a screed, but with multilayer we see there is a tendency to offer standard sizes. Such multilayer panel floors are part of the regular range of lots of producers and in various designs and finishes. Obviously, the target here is a consumer or commercial client looking for standardised products, with more than just an eye on the budget.

A specialist Houtbedrijf Kerkhofs

In recent years we have found Style panels are gaining popularity. We at Houtbedrijf Kerkhofs have had increasing demand and received many commissions for this product. Mostly commercial projects, think hotels, bars, restaurants and other public spaces. There is also growing demand for these Style panels by private customers who have a larger budget. People like to create a traditional atmosphere combined with a modern twist. When a specific request comes for something bespoke, we first do design drawings. After approval our highly skilled factory team starts production. Houtbedrijf Kerkhofs is very flexible when offering Style Panels. This can be done in unusual dimensions, pattern and wood species. Material can be smoked, brushed or aged (distressed) before the panels are assembled. Finishes such as staining, oiling or lacquering will be done on site. Houtbedrijf Kerkhofs produces Style Panels with great precision care and quality.

THE SECRETS OF CLICKING

A BRIEF GUIDE TO THE VARIOUS SORTS OF CLICK SYSTEM WITH LAMINATE AND VINYL FLOORS

Laetitia Kimblad, Director Floor Locking (Välinge Innovation - SE)

What are the click systems like, and which ones are currently the best on the market?

There are three distinct types of locking systems on the market – each with different advantages and disadvantages. The oldest system is the snapping or angling installation, like our 2G Angling, which is a robust system that can go down to floors as thin as 3 mm. However, this technology does not offer the easiest installation and it’s more time-consuming than modern solutions, such as our 5G® Fold Down.

The second version is a Push Down system, like 5G-i™. This requires a rather high tolerance in production, it allows for one person installations but requires more force and a soft-faced hammer is needed to properly lock it in place.

The third system is a fold down system, such as our 5G Fold Down. We dare to say that our 5G Fold Down is the fastest, easiest and most reliable system on the market. It makes floor installation an enjoyable experience for everybody, both professionals and DIYs. When launched, our click system brought with it unheard-of convenience and precision and suddenly, one-person installations and one-finger engagement of the planks were a reality.

The type of locking system has a big say in overall customer satisfaction. As a DIY installer it might not be the first thing you think about when choosing a floor, but this will highly influence the result of the installation. For professionals, a modern installation system such as 5G Fold Down means more square meters installed within the same time.

When manufacturers and consumers choose a product with Välinge’s 5G Fold Down logotype they know they are getting the best floor installation system available. This means perfect and effortless installation every time with a result that stands the test of time. It’s also a very versatile solution that is perfectly suitable for both laminate, wood, and resilient flooring.

What determines the strength of a click system?

Locking systems work by correctly and consistently securing the floor panel’s position during a floating installation — which ensures that the floor can stand up to the thrills and spills of everyday life. An advanced locking system like 5G Fold Down secures the floor panels on two different axes — horizontal and vertical. This takes floor stability to a new dimension — preventing gaps between the planks and height differences between planks as well as dealing exceptionally well with movement from changing indoor climate, humidity, or just the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The strength of a high-quality locking system is especially important to look at over time. At Välinge we have one of the flooring industry’s largest and most advanced R&D Centers. This means that all products using our technology have gone through substantial testing before released to the market – all to ensure the high-quality we are known for.

The positive feedback we get from people living their lives on floors with our 5G Fold Down, and more recently 5G® Dry™, installation systems is another, highly appreciated, way for us to really know the strength and durability our innovations bring to a floor. Their satisfaction with everything from easy installation to floor longevity is what truly makes us happy and keeps us innovating.

Have there been any spectacular developments in click systems?

In general, it's an exciting time for the flooring industry. There has never been a greater variety of floor locking technology to choose from – suitable for all types of floors and budgets.

Our 5G® portfolio offers the fastest, easiest and most reliable installation on the market and both DIY and professional installers often highlight the effortlessness and time-savings this system offers. It’s important that people have a good experience installing

Licensed by

a floor and we often hear from customers how great they think 5G is and how it makes their life easier — for us, this is the ultimate confirmation.

Lately, a lot of focus is on waterproofness and many floor options offer water-resistant features. But not all locking systems are created equal — and not all locking systems are waterproof or even water-resistant. In theory, a locking system creates a tight connection at the joints which can prevent liquids from leaking through to the subfloor and create real damage — but it's not really that straightforward. This is why we created 5G Dry. A waterproof upgrade to our well-known 5G Fold Down system. Our engineers have perfected a system that effectively blocks water and other liquids from penetrating the joints without the need of extra coating or chemicals.

Another exciting advancement is that it used to be impossible to install floors in straight sets without panels moving and creating shifts between the boards – but thanks to our brand-new 5G® Cross system this is no longer a problem. Installation is nothing but a breeze and all you need to add to keep your panels in the desired positions is a small cross component.

Herringbone is another pattern that used to be both hard and very time-consuming but with our 5G® Herringbone the traditional design is easier than ever to install. This method is the easiest and fastest installation alternative on the market and is perfectly suitable for both DIY and professionals.

The many benefits of Välinge’s 5G® portfolio are no longer limited to the floor. With 5G® Climb™, it is easy to create a wow-factor to any room simply by letting the floor climb the walls. Thanks to a unique clip this versatile solution allows for fast, easy and creative wall installation in all areas.

What are the characteristics of the ideal click system for these sorts of floors?

When Välinge introduced the mechanical locking system in the early 1990s it was a paradigm shift. It enabled for easier and more durable installations and revolutionized the business. Since, locking systems have considerably evolved and now offer much easier installation with more durable results every time – perfectly suitable for all choices of resilient, laminate and wood flooring.

For retailers and manufacturers, it’s important to know that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution and variables such as material, design, format and thickness of the panels impact the installation process. To ensure an excellent customer experience, we always offer our expertise and knowledge throughout the process and with 30 years in the business, we dare to say we truly know flooring technologies and locking systems.

The ideal click system for LVT, SPC and laminate flooring should mean easy installation, robustness, versatility and durability. Our versatile 5G portfolio is optimized to fit these products flawlessly. Choosing our 5G Dry system is especially beneficial for LVT, SPC and laminate since this means consumers get a waterproof and more durable floor – meaning less need to worry even for the more chaotic parts of everyday life.

Which tools are now the minimum ones required for the installation? It’s not only the fast and easy installation process that comes with our 5G Fold Down system that is very beneficial – another advantage is that no tools are needed except a knife or a saw (depending on the material) to cut the panels. For installation, the panels are simply folded down and clicked into place in one single movement, without the need of any tapping blocks, wedges or a soft-faced hammer.

At i4F, we believe that even the smallest innovations have the potential to transform not just products, but the lives of the people that use them. It’s why we own and represent thousands of patents and technologies. And it’s why we continue to develop more, both independently and with our partners.

We lead in flooring installation, with our drop-lock technologies, and offer the world’s most advanced digital printing, wall & ceiling, board composition, sustainable process and surface finishing technologies, including innovations imitating ceramic grouts.

Find out more at https://i4f.com/technologies/

Transforming connections by enhancing where people live, work and play with ingenious technologies from the floor upwards

Floating floors once heralded a real revolution on the fitting market, but nowadays this type of fitting is quite normal. The secret of the success lies in the specially shaped click connection in the heart of the floorboard, which guarantees the mechanical connection of the planks.

We don’t need to look far for the origin of the name click system. Indeed, if the floorboards are fitted correctly, you typically hear a click sound. Our question is whether or not all click systems are equally good. The answer is clear: No, some click systems can endanger the fitting of the entire floor because they can considerably reduce the durability of the floor and even damage it.

Three ‘basic families’

How do you choose the best click system? The main thing here is to realise that there are various sorts of click connections. We can divide them up into three big ‘basic families’, namely angle-angle, fall-down connection, and the 5G click system. If you know the properties of those ‘families’, you will also know which one is best for which situation.

The most common type of click connection is the angle-angle system. You fix floorboards by sliding and lowering planks at an angle of 30-45° to the previous row. With this system, you note that you don’t need to tap floorboards into place, but that some manufacturers do allow it as an option. The main thing to remember is never to hammer planks directly, but to use a stop block to protect floorboard edges. This sort of system gives a typical mechanical connection so that the parts (cut to measure) fit together to form a permanent and safe connection against forces from all directions.

You will also see the fall-down connection regularly. This is found mostly on the short sides of a plank (not always!) and you connect the planks by ‘beating’ matching parts together powerfully. You create the click connection by lowering the floorboards straight and vertically so that the two parts of the planks with the milled sections touch each other. You hammer gently until you get an even surface.

This sort of connection only protects the planks from forces in horizontal directions. This means that you will have to pay extra attention to making the base perfectly even. After all, unevenness can yield unwanted exertion of forces whereby the click connection in a vertical surface comes loose. There’s also another drawback with this sort of connection. Once the parts have been ‘tapped’ into place, it is exceptionally difficult to wrench them apart and connect them together again. In any case there is a high risk of damage if you do so.

We’ve saved the most modern connection, namely the 5G, for last. This connection can be fitted quickly and easily and connects sections traditionally on the long edge (i.e. as with angle-angle). With 5G, the shorter edge enters the connection as you lower the plank by sliding a plastic click element. Here, too, with correct fitting you hear the typical sound of a click and you will notice that you don’t need to use any force at all for the connection. An imperative piece of advice with this connection: Never hit the connections with a hammer. If you experience resistance, this usually means that there is some unevenness under the floor on which you are working or that the floorboard is damaged.

Application of a click system with vinyl Finally, we consider click vinyl floors and the required fitting preparation. The good news is that you don’t actually need any special preparation for vinyl with a mineral core. It will suffice if the floor has no noticeable unevenness and one covering floor is usually enough.

Another benefit is that you don’t need expansion joints. Moreover, and perhaps best of all: Vinyl with a mineral core ensures clean fitting, so dust and dirt are no longer enemies. In other words, this is as Laminate floors an ideal renovation product.

Source: Arbiton.com

i4F

If we look at the market, we notice amongst other things i4F’s droplock technologies, powered by its patented 3L Triplelock and Click4U systems, being used worldwide. This is a one-piece drop-lock floor installation which, unlike other ‘fold-down’ systems, does not need an extra insert on the short side or any special tools. Obviously, that has advantages such as the achievement of a higher productivity level, cost reductions, and a lower carbon footprint. i4F’s system is easier and up to 30% faster to install than other installation solutions. And it works on all materials - laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, expanded polymer core, solid polymer core and wooden flooring panels. i4F also launched i-Click4U® (impermeable-Click4U) - the world’s first ever water-resistant, one-piece, drop-lock flooring installation system, complementing i4F’s leading Click4U technology. Water-resistance is built into the installation system itself, so no extra chemical sprays or sealants are needed. i-Click4U has passed tests from independent institutes in France, Germany and the US, and exceeds all NALFA requirements related to water resistant flooring. www.i4f.com

A PVC FLOOR IS EASY TO FIT

IT’S

DIFFICULT AS LONG AS YOU FOLLOW ALL THE STEPS PRECISELY

After a previous article on new fitting methods with no left or right edge, this time we consider specifically the fitting of a PVC floor in Hungarian point or herringbone pattern. Fitting PVC might seem quite simple, but you do need to follow a number of steps carefully.

You can subdivide the fitting into various ‘phases’. Obviously, you start with accurate dimensions of the room where the floor is to be fitted. And so, you need to measure the room and take account of the material lost through cutting. As with most floors, cleaning is also essential with PVC floors. And so, don’t forget to sweep and vacuum clean the floor first of all and, if necessary, you can even apply a primer. Obviously, check to make sure that the subfloor is fairly smooth and even.

Levelling and setting time

Never forget that you always have to level a subfloor if it isn’t completely flat. Moreover, the use of a primer ensures that the levelling agent applied on top adheres securely to the existing floor. Make sure that you take account of the producer’s recommended setting time, so no one should walk on the floor in the meantime! Once the leveller has set, you sandpaper and clean the surface again.

Another good tip: A subfloor has to be completely dry and its humidity level must not exceed 1.8% for a cement floor and 0.3% for an anhydrite floor. A wooden base floor (it is not advisable to glue on such a surface) may also contain a maximum of 14% damp and loose parts must be secured so that you have a hard and solid base floor.

Acclimatisation

People sometimes forget, but PVC floors, too, have to acclimatise. And so, allow the floor plenty of time to adapt to its future surrounds. Generally speaking, here you need to count on at least 24 hours of ‘rest’ on the site, but 48 hours is even better and more certain. Make sure the temperature remains constant during the acclimatisation, during the fitting, and during the three days after the fitting. Temperatures between 19 and 25 degrees are ideal.

A specialist

MEISTER

‘MEISTER herringbone laminate M6’: four authentic oak laminate floors MEISTER has developed four decors which fit in perfectly with current decorative trends. This user-friendly and authentic herringbone laminate floor comes perfectly into its own in both rustic and modern homes. The top quality synchronous structure of the pores and fine micro-joint all round give this floor a top quality and natural look. Moreover, the special Diamond Pro surface ensures greater scratch resistance and is highly resistant to chemicals. Apart from the

aesthetic aspect, MEISTER has also considered fitting convenience. Thanks to the licensed Unizip click system, there is no longer any hint of a plank A and a plank B. This MEISTER herringbone laminate floor can thus be fitted with one type of plank. This helps to fit the floor faster and reduces cutting waste. The collection is available in the following size: 620 x 155 x 8 mm. This floor also has an anti-static top layer and is suitable for fitting in commercial rooms (class 32).

NOT SO

MEISTER herringbone laminate M6 in the oak champagne design

PERFECT SOLUTIONS FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACES

To make the shower a place of absolute comfort, Progress Profiles has developed and patented PROSHOWER SYSTEM. Available in two versions, LINEAR or CENTRAL, this system is made up of several elements, starting from the PROSHOWER PANEL: equipped with a centimeter grid that facilitates the cutting, ensuring maximum precision, it guarantees the perfect slope after the laying of the ceramic covering. The kit available to the installer also includes the PROFOIL waterproofing membrane and a collectible channel: the newest one is PROSHOWER BASE L PRO, with a 360° adjustable and easily inspectable drain and a double internal slope (lengthwise and widthwise) that ensures the correct water flow. To add a touch of design the Italian company also realized PROSHELF and PROSHELF DESIGN, triangular or rectangular shelves designed as comfortable and spacious supports for bathroom products. Made of stainless steel, PROSHELF can be tiled and mounted during the installation of the covering for a result of perfect continuity; the very thin profile of PROSHELF DESIGN, on the other hand, enhances its minimalist and contemporary design. A comfortable bathroom has to ensure unique relaxing moments, with

a regard to energy saving, just like for the living room or the kitchen. For this reason Progress Profiles has developed PRODESO HEAT GRIP SYSTEM, a revolutionary electrical heating system for floors and coverings that provides warmth only where desired in a few minutes.

The system is made up by two elements, Prodeso Heat Grip Membrane and Prodeso Heat Grip Cable. The polyethylene membrane, with uncoupling, waterproofing and vapour management features, has an 8,5 mm thickness and is provided with a thermowelded polypropylene non-woven fabric on the back side. The membrane’s structure allows a perfect fixing of the heating cable and there are shaped reliefs designed to easily hold the heating cable only where required.

Prodeso Heat Grip Cable, with 6.5 mm diameter, is provided with many resistances in parallel circuit, which if damaged does not interrupt the heating transmission of the entire system. Thanks to Prodeso Heat Grip Thermostat it is possible to adjust all settings and time schedule using as remote control an application on Android or Apple devices.

The digital thermostat optimizes the well-being and allows to save money reducing the energy costs.

To renovate outdoor spaces in a short time and in full safety, Progress Profiles has developed PROSUPPORT TUBE SYSTEM, which can help to create floating floors quickly and easily without demolishing or removing those underneath. The modular system consists of a base, a ferrule, a screw, two heads and a set of tubes to achieve the desired height. The possibility to make a self-levelling or fixed laying simplifies the installation, making it practical and intuitive. If the screw is screwed in with the concave part facing upward, the head is selflevelling; turning the screw 180 degrees, the head is fixed. This solution is perfect to raise floating floors from 29 up to 1,000 mm high thanks to the adjustable elevation tubes, for a complete customisation. To ensure the perfect stability and strength of floating floors Progress Profiles has also patented PRORAIL SYSTEM: composed of different elements, it allows the quick installation of ceramic, marble, wood, WPC or composite slabs of any size. For the professional installation of large-format slabs of outdoor floorings, the Italian company offers PRODESO® DRAIN 8 SYSTEM, a patented waterproofing, draining, uncoupling membrane 8 mm thick and made up of 5 layers.

The reliefs of its polyethylene sheet create an “air chamber” below the pavement that drains the water, which infiltrates below it, helps a quick drying of the adhesive and reduces the rise of triacetates, preventing the appearance of efflorescences in the joints: for this reason, PRODESO® DRAIN 8 can be installed also on not-perfectly cured screeds, making it suitable even for apparently more complicated renovations. The system is completed with a strip in polyethylene and elastic polypropylene and with a two-component waterproof adhesive to facilitate the work of the installers. To assure the structures’ suitability of outdoor spaces and prevent serious damages to the surfaces constantly exposed to rainfalls and wheather, Progress Profiles offers a wide range of perimeter profiles. The latest patented model is PROTERRACE DOUBLE DRIP: combined with PRODESO® DRAIN 8 SYSTEM, this solution is perfect to protect the terminal part of the tiles and the perimeter of terraces, balconies and verandas. That is why it is equipped with a vertical wall and a second vertical part, so to have two drainage holes which allow the water to drain in case of the sealant placed between the edge of the tile and the profile detaches.

Made of varnished aluminum, PROTERRACE DOUBLE DRIP can be requested with an embossed or semi-gloss finish and in different colors, from white to gray, from beige to dark brown or corten, in order to create perfect continuity with the interior.

For more information visit us on www.progressprofiles.com

Special Who has lacquers specifically for wooden staircases?

WHEN DO YOU CHOOSE A LACQUER?

OPAQUE OR TRANSPARENT, A LACQUER OFFERS SEVERAL POSSIBLE FINISHES

Martin

Straub (Technical Manager Heidelberg Coatings Dr. Rentzsch GmbH - D)

“We offer a whole host of solutions for the coating of staircases”

You already read in the introduction there are several reasons to choose a lacquer for the finishing of a staircase. But what specifically do manufacturers have on offer? We looked at the German specialist Heidelberg Coatings to learn what they have in the way of stair lacquering and how they respond to various situations.

Technical manager Martin Straub introduces us to the wide Heidelberg range, which is only intended for use on hardwood. In his talk, there are a number of fixed arguments for choosing either one lacquer or another. For instance, you need to consider in advance the maximum drying time and how long the customer can/will wait to use the staircase again. Other issues include scratch resistance and anti-slip properties, chemical resistance, the appearance, the curing time for 2-component paints, the application method (by hand or via spraying), and so on.

HD-AQUA PUR TREPPENLACK

We start off with the HD-AQUA PUR TREPPENLACK. HD-AQUA PUR TREPPENLACK is a water dilutable one component coating for stairs, used as primer and top coat. It is an environment-friendly and nearly odorless coating. After hardening, the coating has the same characteristics as a two component polyurethane coating and it can be used on all wood types.

“Using this lacquer, the stair builder can lacquer two times, with very fast drying times. You only need to wait 3 hours between the 1st and 2nd layer, which means the customer can afterwards use the staircase very quickly”, Mr. Straub explains. “If you are looking for a very good abrasion and chemical resistance, this is your ideal product. It also has an excellent resistance against hand-creme, which is important to know for the handrail.”

HD-AQUA PUR ISOLIERFÜLLER

The second product is called HD-AQUA PUR ISOLIERFÜLLER White. This system is mainly aimed at coloured staircases. Weiss is a water dilutable two component filler, based on polyurethane and acrylate dispersion with low swelling.

“You apply the two component HD-AQUA PUR ISOLIERFÜLLER White two times”, we hear. “With this filler system you have insulation against tints in the wood and there is no change of colour. This product is also not influenced by the substances in the wood. Special about this system is that there are also no problems with the very long potlife, that goes up to 4 hours. Even if you didn’t manage to use it during that time, there is still no problem, as it doesn’t harden in the pot and a liquid system always remains. The only thing you have to do following those 4 hours is mix it again, so you don’t get problems when reapplying.”

HD-AQUA TOP COLOR

Next in line is the HD-AQUA TOP COLOR. HD-AQUA TOP COLOR is also a system for colour lacquer. It is a fast drying, pigmented water coating system with a good coverage.

“HD-AQUA TOP COLOR can easily and without any problems be applied, especially for vertical systems. This is a product that is sprayed”, says Mr. Straub. “In a first and second step, you will need to use the insulation filler we described earlier on, in a third step the HD-AQUA TOP COLOR is applied. Any colour is possible: black, red, whatever… As a last step, one must apply the colourless transparent

HD-AQUA PUR TREPPENLACK.

The result of the work will be a very good colour stability, because there are no problems whatso-ever with yellowing, abrasion and chemical resistance. It is also very UV-stable.”

NATUR HARTWACHS and NATUR HARTWACHSÖL

In a somewhat different category, we can classify the hardwax lacquers, a combination between oils and waxes.

Here, Heidelberg Coatings brings its NATUR HARTWACHS and the NATUR HARTWACHSÖL to the market. NATUR HARTWACHS is a high-grade wood finish, developed from the latest findings in natural surface coatings based on near-natural raw materials. NATUR HARTWACHSÖL is very similar, but is applied differently. Both are viscous oil-wax combinations, with high non-volatile matter based on renewable oils and wax components, intended to be used on staircases, on furniture and in interior design.

“The first product comes in a spray application, that is sprayed two times in a quantity of about 40 to 45 grammes per m². The drying time between the layers is around 2 hours, while you can reuse the stairs after around 8 hours. Special about this product is its very high chemical resistance. In other words, you don’t have problems with drying, red wine, cleaning products,…”, we are told. “If you need to apply by hand, NATUR HARTWACHSÖL is your solution. This product is nearly the same as the NATUR HARTWACHS, but it is is applied by hand and also can ne used to repair a complete staircase. The drying time is a little bit longer, but the result after its application is exactly the same.”

NATUR 2K ÖLFINISH

Last but not least, we notice the both colourless and coloured versions of NATUR 2K ÖLFINISH. This product is a high-quality wood finish, based on the latest knowledge of natural surface coatings using renewable raw materials. It is suitable for surfaces subject to high stress and high water resistance in the entire staircase, parquet, furniture and interior finishing.

“This product is developed for application by hand as well”, concludes Mr. Straub. “It is especially recommended when you use colours. There is only need for one layer of application on the stairs, but that goes hand in hand with regular maintenance, using our special NATUR PFLEGEÖL. This care oil for oiled stair, parquet and furniture surfaces is used to freshen up oiled and waxed surfaces. It is used for both initial care and maintenance care. NATUR PFLEGEÖL has a drying time from 6 to 9 hours, in combination with good, diagonal ventilation.”

NATUR 2K ÖLFINISH

Lacquering a staircase requires a unique approach due mainly to how this special interior element is used. The high and specific course means considerable wear. You can opt for a lacquer finish on a staircase, but what are the steps to be considered for the finish or renovation of a new wood?

Why lacquer?

First of all, you obviously have to assess why you want to lacquer a staircase. There are diverse reasons for doing so and if you can tick enough boxes for most of those reasons, you can opt for lacquer. For instance, with a renovation you want the staircase once again to look as good as new. Or perhaps your main priority is for the lacquer to provide protection from scratches, stains, and all sorts of potential damage. Or perhaps you just want to give the wood a bright colour or simply to prevent discolouration from the incidence of sunlight. In most cases the balance will sway in favour of lacquer if you want sound protection from both damage and discolouration. The extra benefit is that the staircase retains its beauty for much longer than if it were simply painted.

Opaque or transparent

With the lacquer itself you also have plenty of choice. Firstly, you can opt for an opaque lacquer, often white, which largely masks the beauty of the wood. If, however, you want to highlight the material, you opt either for a colourless or clear lacquer or a transparent lacquer with a colour. Most producers have waterborne lacquers, which may or may not be available in a RAL colour and with diverse finishes. Amongst other things, we think here of matt or silky gloss anti-slip. It can also be a lacquer enriched with oil to create a natural matt effect and provide more durable protection. The latter is worthwhile since you combine the benefits of protection with the natural matt look of an oil.

Steps to be taken

Before you can lacquer a staircase, you have to follow various steps meticulously. For instance, with new wood you have to clean it and remove any grease first of all before you sandpaper it. You then sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain, and you must make sure that the sandpapered wood is completely free of dust. You then apply three coats of lacquer and sandpaper lightly between each coat, so that you always have a surface which is free of dust.

If we are talking about existing wood, you start by sanding the staircase coarsely (P80-P120) to remove covering coats of paint or stain and any damaged sections. You then sandpaper the (dust-free!) pale wood to a medium texture (P150-P180/P220) and you remove any grease from the intact and transparent coats of lacquer and stain. After that, you sandpaper once again (dust-free!) to a medium texture and, finally, you apply the lacquer in two coats. Don’t forget to follow the direction of the wood grain and to sandpaper lightly between the application of both coats.

Tips with the preparation

Finally, we stress once again how important preparation is. It covers everything up to and including inspecting the wood for holes or other flaws. You never apply a lacquer until repairs are completed first in line with professional standards. Be sure not to forget that new

wood needs an extra coat of primer. Moreover, are you going to use an acid-curing or a moisture-curing lacquer? In that case you must sandpaper the wood completely bare before you can even think about lacquering! One more thing: Don’t forget to consider the location of the staircase in the room and, as we’ve mentioned above, to estimate the course. With high traffic it is better to opt for a dual-component lacquer. If you want to make the coarse of the staircase less flexible, then consider a specific anti-slip lacquer.

Bona

Bona Traffic HD Anti-slip is a 100% polyurethane, 2-component, and waterborne lacquer which gives a wooden floor exceptional durability and protection. Bona Traffic HD Anti-slip has all the superior features of their 2-component finish lacquer Bona Traffic HD, plus the benefit that it meets the highest standards in slip resistance in commercial rooms, staircases, and other places with a high risk of spilling or slipping. With greater friction, Bona Traffic HD Anti-slip is the ideal choice for stairs, care homes, kitchens, and similar locations. • Excellent strength and chemical resistance • Not vulnerable to shoe marks • Excellent adhesion • Non-yellowing • ECR1 approved (very low emissions).

Chimiver

ECOTRAFFIK 2K (A+B), Two-component water-based polyurethane lacquer for wooden floors and staircases ECOTRAFFIK 2K is a two-component water-based high durability polyurethane lacquer for wooden floors and staircases, characterized by high solid content. ECOTRAFFIK 2K is easy to apply, has an high pore wettability even on brushed wood surfaces giving a warm and pleasant shade to the floor treated. It has high abrasion and black heel mark resistances that makes it ideal for the use on high traffic floors and on stairs for public use. Perfect results can be achieved by applying a first coat of ECOPRIME HS 120 (see technical data sheet), sanding and applying one or two coats of ECOTRAFFIK 2K.

DevoNatural Passage - Matt

Extremely wear-resistant 2-component waterborne parquet varnish based on polyurethane-modified polyester dispersions. Extremely suitable for the treatment of wooden floors and stairs that are subjected to intensive use! Its high wear resistance and easy maintenance make this matt parquet varnish ideal for contemporary application on residential and commercial floors. Can also be used indoors on wooden doors, furniture, worktops, ceilings, etc.

- Extremely high abrasion resistance;

- Suitable for commercial areas, stairs and intensive use;

- Resistant to most chemicals;

- Wood retains its natural colour (no discolouration);

- Fast curing;

- Combinable, adheres to all other DevoNatural parquet varnishes and DevoNatural Colour

Special properties:

UV-resistant (non-yellowing), low odour, easy to apply, high resistance to scratching and most household chemicals, complies with VOC standards, safe to use, non-toxic nor flammable, NMP free. The combination of hardness and elasticity give an exceptionally long life and very high abrasion resistance.

CREATE VISUAL CALM

LONG AND WIDE PARQUET IS STILL A HIT, ESPECIALLY IN RURAL AND RUSTIC SETTINGS

Traditionally, a wooden floor used to consist of narrow planks, but for several years now the market trend has been for wide wooden floors in combination with much bigger lengths. The reason for that is found in the desire to create a rustic and warm atmosphere in the home, something which the pandemic has only served to promote.

Sturdier, more robust, and more authentic

The choice for wide planks is obvious because this makes a floor look sturdier, more robust, and more authentic. And so, planks up to even 28cm wide with lengths of up to 2.5 metres and even (much) longer have long since ceased to be exceptional.

It is necessary to keep an eye on certain things when fitting those wider and longer floorboards. Wood is still a ‘live’ material, even with composite floors, and that means that you have to accept that scratches can appear over time, wood is a sensitive material which can swell or shrink, and you have to beware of damp and fluctuations in temperature even more than usual.

Avoid warping

And so, with the fitting you should remember that you always need an expansion joint and that the substrate should be completely dry. Moreover, you also need to consider the maintenance, taking account of the type of wood. Another point which you certainly must remember: A wide plank is more likely to swell and shrink than a narrow one. Since wide planks have more wood, the floorboard is under more pressure and is likely to warp at some point. This can be absorbed by glueing wide planks to reduce the risk of wooden floors warping.

large range of possibilities. We also supply other species such as Walnut, Wenge, Iroko, etc. and other widths (350 or 400mm) on request.

Forestry Timber Holdings Limited

At Forestry Timber Holdings Limited, we are seeing an increased demand for extra wide and extra-long planks with no signs of slowing down. The clean lines of extra wide and extra-long planks make rooms look larger, adding an old-world sophistication, and creating a distinctive look for any home, office or retail space. With fewer visible seams, the natural beauty of the wood shines through. Extra-wide and extralong planks can cost more than more standard-width planks and, when using solid hardwood, can be prone to warping. By contrast, engineered hardwood flooring with a Hevea core is ideal for manufacturing wider and longer planks as it is, by nature, more stable and resistant to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Extra wide and extra-long planks tend to make rooms look larger and complement any décor, from rustic elegance and shabby chic through to a classically sophisticated look.

Forestry Timber Holdings Limited

Engineered Hardwood Flooring, Making the Ordinary, Extraordinary

Lindura by MEISTER – The wood flooring revolution

Design Parquet

In order to maximize the volume of wider rooms and underline the depth of spaces, larger and longer strips are appreciated. Extra large strips are available only in engineered wood flooring. The largest strips of Design Parquet are 220 and 295mm like our XXL wood flooring. This kind of strips is offered only in LOFT PRO : semi-solid wood flooring on birch plywood base because this base offers a better stability. Design Parquet strips are available from 1 meter to 5 meters long. Our XXL model is produced with an oak underlayer to ensure its stability and offers the possibility to lay in floating, glued or nailed laying. Extra large and long strips are in Oak and you can select the colours effects and finishing, which offers a

Sustainable. Robust. Practical. That is Lindura wood flooring. In addition to the two room-sized château plank formats (2200 x 270 mm/2600 x 320 mm) an elegant new herringbone format (700 x 140 mm) was launched on 1st April 2022. Its eight ultramatt-lacquered surfaces can be colour-coordinated with the HD 400 collection or stand alone. The château planks of the HD 400 collection are now impregnated with AquaStop edge impregnating agent, making them water-resistant for 24 hours and suitable for humid rooms. This provides even more safety in the kitchen and hallway, and enables installation in the bathroom. All surfaces have been successfully tested to ensure an antibacterial effect. And the best: manufacturing Lindura’s surface uses only approximately one eighth of the wood that is used for conventional multi-layered parquet flooring. Lindura – the ecological alternative!

Sources: Tarkett and beboparket.nl

Some specialists have their say

Natural champagne oak, 8922

Special Who has lacquers which apply a finish in one coat?

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE IN ADVANCE

FINISHING IN ONE COAT IS POSSIBLE, BUT ONLY UNDER SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES

If you opt for a lacquer finish, you opt for a floor which is easy to maintain, both daily and periodically. The benefit of lacquer is that it is a rigid finish layer which does not deteriorate. And so, various things mean that, unlike with oil, you create a complete enclosure of the wood to counter the penetration of dirt and damp.

If you were to ask 100 parquet floor fitters the question, a lot of them would say that they always finish with more than one coat of lacquer. However, under specific circumstances it is possible to finish in one coat, as long as you consider a number of factors. As a side issue, this lacquering in one coat is certainly not as new as is often supposed. We saw it emerge several decades ago, and it was fairly popular in the early 1980s. However, that popularity did not last because the desire to work with a fast and economical finish was confronted by a reality check.

The varnished wood did not react well to just one coat of lacquer. Why not? As we all know, wood does not take kindly to damp at all. Moreover, lacquer, too, is a fluid. The pores start to swell because they absorb moisture, certainly with the application of a first coat. Logically, the single-coat lacquer story soon came to an end because the necessary preparation slowed down what was a speedy and economical operation.

Substrate preparation

How do you set about finishing in a single coat? Don’t forget that you need to prepare the substrate properly. And so, this means that first of all you apply a covering coat of ‘primer’, preferably a fast-drying one. The reason for the rapid drying is obvious and relates directly to what we’ve outlined above: Time is money, so the slower the work, the less benefit of a finish in one coat.

Can you just apply any lacquer? No, certainly not! Don’t forget that you need to use a lacquer with a hollow filling factor. Furthermore, you also need to ensure that you are in a comfortable working position because applying just a single coat inevitably means that you see every shortcoming and application error. You must avoid all the things which no client wants to see in the finished article.

When just one coat?

When do you opt for just one coat and when do you avoid it? Both questions need to be considered and you need to decide in advance the final purpose of the floor. If it has to look absolutely perfect, yet at the same time it will be used quite a lot, you can best take the safe option of two or even three coats of lacquer as a finish. The latter option, three coats, is clearly preferable. Do you want just one coat? If so, you must do so on a hard base and the choice has to be justified by both a cost/ benefits analysis and/or speed of application.

Possible under specific circumstances

There is still the question as to whether it is possible to have a perfectly durable finish in just one coat. Here you need to define first exactly

what you mean by durable. If we are talking about a high-traffic room such as an office or a shop, you can best forget about a finish in just one coat. You will never achieve adequate durability in just one coat.

It is still possible, however, under different circumstances. It is possible to justify it for a residential application, especially if you use a lacquer with a high dry extract which is produced specially for a finish in one coat, and certainly if the traffic in that setting is fairly limited. These lacquers must always contain resins which can guarantee good to excellent performances, and there we think almost automatically of 2-component polyurethane lacquers.

Bona

Bona Mega ONE – waterborne and 1-component polyurethane lacquer

An all-in-1-Partner for the treatment of wooden floors. Fast-drying, easy to sand, and excellent filling power.

Bona Mega ONE is designed to simplify the working day for professionals, for faster and easier works and highly reliable. It gives a warm and attractive wood colouring and at the same time gives wooden floors a durable protection in living rooms and in commercial areas with minimal traffic. A crystal clear and non-yellowing formula.

Features:

- Primer and finish in 1 – parquet primer is usually not required - Bona Mega ONE can be applied directly to bare wood.*

- No need to mix – no spillage and it saves time.

- Dries rapidly – intermediate sanding is often possible after 1 hour

- Sanding material does not slide closed during polishing.

- Ideal for light wood

- Also on tropical wood a warm and attractive colouring

- Good layer structure, good filling strength

- A durable parquet lacquer

- For use in homes and for low-traffic commercial floors

- Non-yellowing

*IMPORTANT - Bona always advises you to apply a minimum of 3 coats (8-10m²/litre = 120-100g/m² per coat). This determines the final strength and durability of the top coat.

DON’T FORGET THE PITFALLS

YOU CAN ONLY LEVEL PERFECTLY BY FOLLOWING THE RULES PERFECTLY

Luc Wouters (business developer of floor technology for Belgium at Bostik -B)

‘Your basic knowledge lays a nice base.’

Bostik is a specialist in adhesive systems and its products are used all over the world in scores of applications, from production and industrial assembly to hygienic disposables. This wide range also includes solutions for the building industry, from new construction to renovation and for both residential and commercial settings.

As part of these construction solutions, Bostik offers an extensive assortment of levelling compounds. Luc Wouters, business developer of floor technology for Belgium, is the ideal person to tell us more about this. Luc has over 34 years of experience at Bostik and he supports his contacts and colleagues by giving advice for substrate preparation and providing training courses. Luc explains: ‘Floor technology comprises all products for repairs to covering floors, damp screens, levelling compounds, and wall and floor adhesives. Bostik has products and suitable materials for all phases of a project.’

The playing rules which lead to expertise

His first piece of advice is: ‘Analyse the base and the floor. The levelling compound to be used depends on the type of floor. Whether you fit ceramics, carpet, PVC, linoleum, or parquet, each floor has specific requirements which you have to consider. Elements like drying time, required layer thickness, strength, and flexibility must be considered.’

‘With a flexible floor covering like PVC or linoleum, you need a very flat substrate for a seamless end result. You can’t flatten out any unevenness with adhesives. With parquet it’s a different matter. A higher adhesive consumption, and therefore a thicker adhesive layer, means you can remove any unevenness. Moreover, great compressive and tensile strength are absolutely vital to solid parquet since the wood constantly affects the substrate. And so, each fitting needs the right levelling compound.’

As we’ve already said, another requirement is the layer thickness. All levelling compounds have their own maximum applicable layer thickness. Luc Wouters comments: ‘In practice, not all substrates are equally flat, so it’s possible that you have to offset 4mm in one corner, whilst you have a much bigger difference in the other one. The Bostik levelling compound SL C940 XL (SL = self levelling and C stands for cementbound) can even be applied up to a thickness of 5cm. The SL C780 FLEX is ideal for levelling a wooden substrate. It is a fibre-reinforced levelling compound with great bend strength.’

The next piece of advice for professionals is always to respect the stated dosage with water. He says: ‘The last thing you want is a powdery end result. And so, you must stick strictly to the pre-scribed quantity of water to be added. Bostik always gives these instructions clearly on the pack.’

Some products considered Bostik offers a wide range of levelling compounds, which are easy to apply. This SL C510 PRO is suitable for use on indoor floors. SL C510 PRO is certified in accordance with EC 1+ and is thereby suitable for use in BREEAM and LEED projects.

SL C750 POLYRAG from Bostik is a fast-drying, flexible, and fibre-reinforced levelling compound specifically for levelling less stable substrates, such as wood, for instance. This product is ideal for a further finish with a floor coating.

Bostik’s fastest drying levelling compound (also suitable for use in great layer thicknesses) is the SL C990 SPRINTER. Originally, fast-drying levelling compounds were designed for use in shops and public areas where speedy and smooth renovations were needed. Closure time must be kept to a minimum. By opting for fast-drying levelling compounds, you can fit a new carpet or tile floor within two to four hours.

Special Producers of levelling agents : which thicknesses can we apply in one treatment and what about the drying time?

Special Producers of levelling agents : which thicknesses can we apply in one treatment and what about the drying time?

Developments and the environment

Finally, we discuss innovations in the field of levelling compounds. He says: ‘Generally on the market, but also particularly at Bostik, the players are making every effort to provide ecological solutions. For instance, all our levelling compounds possess at least emission certificate EC1 or even EC1+. And so, they’re absolutely ideal for use with green projects (BREEAM and LEED).’

An interesting question about levelling agents is the thicknesses with which they can cope nowadays. Obviously, we want to know what thicknesses we are talking about and how much is possible in a single layer. Then, we mustn’t forget another vitally important element: What about the drying time?

We called upon specialist Bostik and they told us at once that every levelling agent has a maximum layer thickness. With standard levelling agents you can assume a maximum of 1cm. For the project market levelling agents are customary with a maximum thickness of 20mm. Bostik informed us that there’s even a separate type which can go up to 5cm. The latter is used mainly for renovations of rooms with a very irregular floor surface.

Generally speaking, you can say that most standard levelling agents are applied in layer thicknesses of between 3 and a maximum of 5mm. In this case, what you level today can be sanded the next day and you can fit the floor at once. In exceptional cases where you level up to 5cm thick, you should allow for a drying time of 1cm per day, but even then you add one extra day to be absolutely sure.

Three general rules

An important point with levelling is that you have to take account of the drying time. There are three rules of thumb for doing that: The temperature of the base plate has to be at least 15°C; the surrounding temperature should be at least 18°C; and the humidity has to be between 45 and 75%.

Photo – Bostik

If you fail to take account of those factors, things will soon go wrong. Suppose, for instance, that you level at a temperature of 8°C. This means that your product is going to flow very badly and that the levelling layer will take an eternity to dry. If the humidity is too high, condensation can form which falls on the levelling agent, and this means that it will take a long time to dry.

Take care when combining layers

We would like to know whether it is possible to apply two layers of levelling agent (or even more) on top of each other. The general answer is that you can, but only under strict conditions. What you always have to do is read the maker’s instructions carefully. If the instructions say that the maximum thickness is 2cm, it is simply not feasible to reason that you can apply a first layer of 1.5cm, allow it to dry, and then apply another layer of 1.5cm on top because you have to come to 3cm. A prescribed maximum of 2cm of levelling agent means just that. Applied specifically to 2cm, applying a layer of 1cm twice is perfectly possible and can be useful if you are working on a floor with a slight ‘slope’.

Use the correct primer

Finally, we were informed that the importance of using the correct primer cannot be overstated. Generally, there are three types of primer. The first one is for porous substrates, the next one is for smooth and non-porous substrates, and the last one is for application to a wooden substrate. The second type of primer (for smooth and non-porous substrates) has an in-built sand grain. This is necessary for obtaining a good adhesion of the levelling agent to the smooth surface (think of tiles, for instance). The third type of primer (for wooden substrates) in particular needs more explanation. It’s asking for trouble to apply a levelling agent directly to a wooden substrate. The wood absorbs the moisture, swells, and shrinks again after drying. You can guess the result. This type of primer should ensure good adhesion and will protect the wooden substrate from the mixing water in the levelling agent. Moreover, the primer fills in any cracks between planks to prevent leaks of the levelling agent.

Do not choose for the layer thickness

One more point: Generally speaking, the advice with levelling agents is not to choose on the basis of the layer thickness. On the contrary, you take account of the substrate, the type of floor covering which you want to fit, and the use of the room. Never forget that the amount of traffic plays a very big part, so a bedroom requires a different approach to that of the entrance of a public area.

Bona

In the Bona assortment: 3 levelling agents and 1 repair agent. These products are suitable for floor heating and have low emissions (Emicode EC1 Plus).

Bona H600

Cement-bound levelling agent reinforced with acrylic polymer. Self-levelling – Fitting is possible after 12 hours. Compatible with primers Bona D510, D520, or Bona R590. Fill unevenness or bigger holes with Bona H610. For application under: ∫ mosaic, engineered, multilayer, and solid parquet ∫ Also under flexible floors, textile floors, and solid cork tiles ∫ Layer thickness: 1-20mm

Bona H605

Calcium sulphate levelling agent: Based on alpha-hemihydrate. Yields flat and absorbent substrates ready for the installation of floor coverings.

Self-levelling – Low pressure. Compatible with primers Bona D510, D520, or Bona R590.

For application under: ∫ Flexible floors ∫ Textile flooring ∫ Also for parquet which is glued with Bona silane adhesives ∫ Layer thickness: 1-20mm Bona H660

Cement levelling agent. Like Bona H600, but with a somewhat longer drying time.

Treat the substrate with a suitable primer such as Bona D510, D520, or Bona R590. Fill unevenness or bigger holes with Bona H610. For application under: ∫ mosaic, engineered, multilayer, and solid parquet ∫ Also for under flexible floors, textile floors, and solid cork tiles ∫ Layer thickness: 1-20mm Bona H610

Cement-bound repair agent: A fast-setting and fast-drying grout with no leaks for indoor repairs. Substrates should be treated with primer Bona D510, D520, or R590. Application: ∫ Ideal for filling holes and cracks in covering floors ∫ Repairing and renovating staircase steps and risers ∫ Repairing and renovating sand-cement screeds and concrete floors ∫ Repairs around pipes, doors, and window frames ∫ Layer thickness: no limit.

Chimiver

"RASOCHIM MAXI", Fast drying self-levelling compound for interior works and public floorings

RASOCHIM MAXI is a fast-hardening, single-component grey cement powder premixed, for thickness from 5 mm to 40 mm and suitable for indoor use.

RASOCHIM MAXI mixed with water becomes fluid cement paste suitable for realization of excellent strength self-leveling smoothing. The product matures quickly both on new and old subfloor. It does not undergo any shrinkage, it does not form cracks, it has good resistance to compression, bending and abrasion. It is possible apply on sand screeds, cement screeds, ready to use screeds, ceramic floors, marble, natural stones, wood, clinker and grès.

A STATEMENT IN THE INTERIOR

SKIRTING BOARDS IN STEEL, MESSING, OR ALUMINIUM GIVE YOU A SPECIAL PROFILE

High-quality metal and aluminium skirting boards are the fruit of modern technological developments and the work of designers. A straight profile fitted almost parallel with the wall means that a metal or aluminium skirting board stands out from other types of comparable finish elements such as PVC skirting boards. This type of wall finish has attracted more and more interest for several years and that comes as no surprise because the product possesses more than purely aesthetic assets.

There are various reasons for using metal or aluminium. For instance, there is obviously the un-doubted strength, but that’s not all. Think of the strong resistance to temperature changes and high humidity, which guarantees high durability and reliability.

Special polymer compound

If we specifically consider the metal skirting board, we notice how this is very often covered with a special polymer compound. This compound has a protective function and is fitted to extend the lifespan of the skirting board. We should also mention that when we talk about metal, we usually mean steel or messing. Aluminium is certainly also a metal, but sometimes it behaves differently and is also somewhat lighter. What’s interesting about aluminium skirting boards is to consider their production because it is a rather complicated process. It is good to be aware that the production of aluminium skirting boards requires extra processing and protection from oxidation and this is quite expensive. You don’t want the skirting board to turn black or other processes to have an adverse effect on the metal. And so, it’s better to anodise or coat with a special polymer film.

With messing, the costs are lower because this material does not corrode, so in the course of time the product stays virtually the same in terms of both its appearance and its features, and it is easy to process. Obviously, the colour stays special and this is a product which will tend to appeal to lovers of baroque or classic. However, it can also make for a challenging statement in a modern interior.

And so, what about stainless steel skirting boards? You can say that they are ideal for adorning joints in any room and that you can have diverse sorts of appearance, namely reflective, matt, or polished. This is a product of very high quality, so it can be used in almost any room in the house. Do you want the end result to look modern? If so, stainless steel is the right choice because you give rooms a particularly elegant and finished look.

Versatility and customised

What we should also mention with metal skirting boards is that producers explicitly pay attention to the simplest possible fitting. Here,

they also consider the possibility of screening off wires and cables and there are variations in the height. Those variations can be considerable, and we see with some producers, for instance, variations from 40 to 200mm. This makes it possible to guarantee fairly unusual design solutions.

Fitting metal skirting boards in an interior requires careful choices in advance. That’s why we also advise you always to have a look at the general style of the surrounds first and/or to harmonise the choice for metal accordingly. It is clear that steel or aluminium are a particularly attractive choice because not only do you create a nice connection between the floor and the wall, but also you even give an interior a touch of high-tech character. As regards the high-tech, you can best consider a combination of metal, glass, and stone. That is the reason why steel or aluminium skirting boards can be mixed successfully with the used finish materials, whether we are talking about ceramic floor tiles, reflective interior elements, or stone, both naturally and synthetically.

Sources: builddaysis.com and auer-metallprofile.de What’s on the market ?

Auer Metallprofile

In addition to a multitude of stair nosings and connecting profiles and special profiles, Auer Metallprofile also have various skirtings made of stainless steel and aluminum. From flat i-shape, via click-skirting, and then to edged and extruded L-shapes, to r-skirting boards to bump and push a variety of coverings, such as the 60x10x3.2mm aluminum design skirting. This is suitable for bonding 2 to 3 mm coverings and adapts optimally in every room by the combination with the laid design floor. This skirting board is available in the anodized colors silver and stainless steel color

as standard colors. Other anodized colors or with powder coating are available on request. Matching inside and outside corners can either be miter cut or manufactured as a 30x30 mm corner by us. LED skirting boards in 60 mm and 100 mm made of aluminum for indirect lighting have been added to the skirting range. These are available in aluminum silver anodized and powder coated, suitable to customers desire.

Küberit

NEW! with rounded edges

Skirting boards made of metal or aluminium are often purchased for commercial spaces because they are more stable, robust and durable than skirting boards made of plastic or wood. For aluminium skirting boards, anodised silver is the most popular colour, followed by a stainless steel look (often called titanium) with a brushed finish. Brushed stainless steel is the most popular. Metal skirtings

are offered glued or as a two-part clip system for gluing or screwing. Küberit also offers mouldings made of milled aluminium or plastic for all common skirtings. There are outer angles, inner angles, end caps and connecting elements. For skirtings made of stainless steel, the focus is on matching outer and inner angles. A special feature is the possibility of concealing cables in the clip skirtings. The advantages of metal and aluminium skirtings are their stability and appearance. Skirting boards should be protected from the wall in the floor area where cleaning equipment and machines come into direct contact with the wall. Some of the aluminium skirtings can be bent as column rings in the Küberit manufacture. Column rings and a powder-coated aluminium skirting board are currently being installed in the Walloon Parliament.

FN Neuhofer

FN

flush-pro: Plaster-Flush Skirtings

It is very practical when everything is flush with the wall. You can place your furniture right on the wall and you no longer have to clean the baseboards. The plaster-flush baseboard is the answer. The strip is made of aluminium and is applied before the wall is plastered. After plastering, a hollow space is created in the baseboard area. You can use it for the expansion joint when laying floors. Subsequently, the space can be filled either with a floor section or with two different cover profiles: The one profile covers the entire area from the plaster to the floor, while the other profile has an opening at the lower edge of the plaster, into which you can install a LED strip, for example.

STAIR NOSING PROFILE 845 easy to install

· insertion for floors and carpets up to 3 mm decor matching or contrast on stair nosings with the same or different coverings suitable for advertisement or indications on stairs with our digital-printing technology VIDEO

indoor spaces. These skirting boards are also very resistant, ensuring long-lasting wall protection and they can therefore be laid even near fireplaces or radiators. Progress Profiles offers over 30 different skirting boards to enhance any floor, creating elegant chromatic contrasts or perfect continuity with the coverings: among them, there are flush-to-the-wall models or those with integrated LEDs, and some can reach the height of 150 mm. The latest model produced by Progress Profiles is PROSKIRTING LIST: available in anodized, polished, brushed or varnished aluminum and in white or silver colors, it can be fixed directly to the wall with adhesive or with aluminum supports, and it’s suitable for every indoor.

FLEXIBILITY IS THE MAIN STRENGTH

FEATURES OF THE HAND-HELD TYPES AND WITH AN L-SHAPE

Due to its specific function, you can regard the edge sanding machine as a special type of parquet sander. The name says it all: This is a machine which is used for sanding edges. This makes it different from other floor sanders, which are used to sand extensive surfaces of a wooden floor. Those floor sanders are usually big, sturdy, and hardly flexible at all, unlike the edge sander.

Edge sanders for professional use can be divided into two types. The first is that which you hold in the hand and the other is that in a sort of L-shape. You use the latter to sand easily accessible places, whilst the hand-held tool is ideal for corners and skirting boards.

L-shape version

We start with the L-shape version, and to find out about the practical possibilities we ask the advice of a specialist, in this case Pallmann. With this type of edge sander you notice that the motor and the drive of the machine are integrated into the upright section. A typical L-shape machine has a motor which is supported by wheels and a weight of about 16kg. The sanding disc is integrated at the end of the horizontal section. This sanding disc is driven by the motor and connected by a V-belt.

The motor causes the sanding disc to rotate at high speed. To make the machine suitable for wooden floors up to the skirting board and under the heating, it is fitted with a protruding front. These machines are used with paper dust bags, an air recycler, or with a fine dust filter. This means that it absorbs most of the sanding dust which is sucked up.

If we look at what Pallmann has to offer, we see the Gecko Star 2.0, which is characterised by comfortable and powerful sanding. We notice with this machine a high capacity (1500 watts, whilst other electro-motors generally have 1250 watts), with 3300 revolutions per minute (sanding disc 178) or 3800 (sanding disc 150).

In addition, manufacturers pay attention to a balanced weight so that it is possible to exert maximum sanding pressure. Moreover, we also see ergonomic shaped handles, wire clamps for the vacuum cleaning tube, a simple setting of the Wheel position, and attention to a balanced weight to facilitate comfortable sanding. Manufacturers have also considered maximum illumination of the area to be sanded using LED technology. Appropriately, this device is fitted with an adapter for a vacuum cleaner so that it is virtually possible to sand dust-free, and we’ve outlined the importance of that in a previous edition. The delivery

Photo – Lägler

includes two zirconium sanding discs of 150/178mm (K40 and K80) and also a short front section is available for sanding under stairs and along edges.

Manually operated edge sander

And so, we move to the manually operated edge sander. Since this machine has to combine strength and convenience, it needs a number of specific assets for perfect sanding along edges and in corners. At Pallmann they refer in this context to the Gecko Flex, which even has a revolutions setting and weighs 4.5kg. Obviously, this Flex is small and compact (work width 180mm) and here, too, makers have paid a lot of attention to dust extraction (you can sand virtually dust-free). The handle, too, has been made more efficient and the Flex has adjustable brushes. The sandpaper which is supplied is: 2x zirconium 178mm, 10-hole (K40 and K80). Here, too, the capacity is 1500 watts. The aim of this machine is also obvious: no corner should be out of reach, but there always has to be an excellent sanding result.

Bona

Bona has a wide assortment of sanding machines for parquet floors, ranging from belt sanders and single-disc sanders to edge sanders. This latter category includes the Bona Edge UX, the latest edge sander in the range. This is an extremely powerful and easily manoeuvrable edge sander with new flexibility and safety features. The Bona Edge UX has a completely unique and modern design to yield an extremely safe and user-friendly edge sander. The machine can be

used with sanding discs fitted with a centring hole or Velcro (selfadhesive) discs and has extremely effective dust suction. The machine is fitted with LED light technology for perfect visibility. The sanding arm can sand up to the wall. The refined construction makes the machine very easy to handle.

FEATURES: ∫ Extremely wide field of vision due to 16 LED lamps ∫ Reaches to the wall ∫ Less risk of sanding mistakes • Ingenious multimeter ∫ Lower sound level ∫ Safety: The machine stops automatically if it falls over (so called ‘dead man’s handle’) ∫ Can be connected to the Bona DCS industrial vacuum cleaner (model 70 or 25).

For sanding parquet floors, Bona also has a wide range of abrasives for all sanding work.

Devomat Industries

Powerful and versatile professional edge sander

D like ... diamond!

Lägler ® tools - fitted with carbon in its purest and noblest form, the diamond. The hardest cutting material of all!

FLIP ® - Milling Attachment

✔ for removing/milling almost all residues on wooden surfaces. FOR ALL THOSE WHO NEED IT REALLY HARD!

SINGLE - Diamond Sanding Disc

✔ for sanding and levelling screeds ✔ for removing sintered layers and sanding off residues on screed surfaces. GENTLE BUT EFFECTIVE!

SINGLE - Scrabber Disc GREEN

✔ for removing parquet adhesive residues, tile adhesive residues, Levelling compound and paint residues on screed and OSB or chipboards.

EFFICIENT, BUT NOT TOO VIGOROUS!

SINGLE - Scrabber Disc BLACK

✔ in addition to the same areas of application as the Scrabber plate GREEN, also suitable for removing thin layers of bitumen.

ALWAYS GOOD WHEN REALLY DOING TOUGH WORK!

Devo Sprinter has everything the demanding parquet professional expects. A light machine, yet with a powerful motor and adjustable speed. Thus, the Devo Sprinter can be adjusted for a perfect sanding result! The drive belt runs in a dust-proof housing, preventing dust and abraded oils and lacquers from sticking to the belt. This makes it low-maintenance. The adjustable Velcro strap on the front of the sanding disc guarantees dust-free operation and prevents damage to skirting boards and cabinets. Devo Sprinter can optionally also be connected to a vacuum cleaner for completely dust-free operation.

- Powerful 2100W motor.

- Adjustable speed.

- Available in 3 versions: XS, M and XL.

- Multiple adjustable handles for ergonomic work.

- Universal sanding pad Ø178 with velcro and screw.

- Optional work light.

THE DIVERSE TYPES OF WOOD ADHESIVE OUTLINED

THE RIGHT CHOICE STARTS WITH A KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF ADHESIVE

In a previous edition we explained how to recognise an ecological adhesive. The main thing to remember is that there are several ways for an adhesive to be considered ecological, but the general rule is that water-based adhesive is usually much better for the environment than an adhesive with synthetic materials. Moreover, an adhesive is ‘better’ if it contains no formaldehyde or VOCs. The biggest drawback of a water-based product is the potentially longer drying time.

In this article we consider the main types of adhesive and define each of them briefly. This shows clearly what the market offers and what the benefits and drawbacks are.

Adhesive types

The list is not exhaustive, but these are the main types which we have found: phenolic resins and amino-resins, vinyl resins, polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, polychloroprene resins, melting adhesives, polyurethane hot melts, natural and casein adhesives, cyano-acrylic adhesives, and resins based on condensed tannins.

- Phenolic resins and amino-resins: These are thermo-setting glues. They comprise a resin and a hardener which are mixed before use. Amino-resins are usually colourless. Industry uses phenolic and amino-resins in particular for structural compounds such as glued plywood and panels such as multiplex and chipboard. The adhesive joints are fairly waterproof.

- Vinyl resins (PVAc): These adhesives are also sometimes called

‘white wood adhesives’. They are suitable for both indoor and outdoor joinery. The colourless adhesive joints remain flexible and liable to creep. Vinyl resins are slightly to reasonably waterproof, depending on the adhesive formula.

- Polyurethane resins (PU): PU adhesive consists of mono or dual-component resins, the volume of which increases during setting. That swelling capacity makes it possible to join surfaces which do not connect perfectly. Polyurethane resins are reasonably waterproof. They are also being used increasingly for bearing connections.

- Epoxy resins: These comprise two components. The cold glued joints have a changing thickness and are relatively stiff and temperature-resistant. Epoxy resins are suitable for restoring structures affected by fungi or insects.

- Polychloroprene resins: These ‘contact adhesives’ are composed on the basis of regenerated rubber and give a highly flexible joint. In particular, materials with various expansion coefficients (such as wood, metal, or wood-ceramics) are suitable for glueing with this type.

- Melt adhesives (butyl, SBR, and polyamides): Glueing with melt adhesives or hot melt is done warm. It is done mainly in industry for glueing panel edges. Mechanical performances are limited. That’s why melt adhesives are also used for holding elements temporarily in place during the production process.

- Polyurethane hot melts: This type of melt adhesive is a relatively new development. Here, the hardener is covered with a layer of polymer and thereby mixed into the adhesive. When this compound is heated, the hardener comes freely into contact with the resin, and this speeds up the setting. The result is a high and flexible adhesion and strong resistance to fluctuations in climate. The technique is safer, more ecological, and more profitable than many classic types of glueing. However, the installation requires a lot of initial investment.

- Natural and casein adhesives: Adhesives based on animal proteins (think, for instance, of bones) are only still used for the restoration of artefacts and antique furniture items. Casein adhesives belong to the same family. Some countries still use them in industry to connect structural indoor elements to each other.

- Cyano-acrylic adhesives: These adhesives are hardly used in industry any more at all. However, they do stick wood perfectly to other materials. The joints have to be thin and brief but intense pressure has to be exerted on the connection for the binding.

- Resins based on condensed tannins: Condensed tannins are present in abundance in the wood and resins of some wood sorts (e.g. acacia, schinopsis, tsuga, rhus, or pine resin). Resins based on tannins reduce the pressing time of chipboards. They also make it possible to use damper wood sections than with phenolic and amino-resins.

Source: houtinfobois.be (technical information on wood adhesive).

Bona

With a long history of sustainability, Bona still leads the way in sustainable innovations and solutions. In the 1970s, Bona started with waterborne parquet lacquers and was then the first to introduce dust-free grinding and to develop parquet oil from renewable raw materials. Bona was also the first to replace solvent parquet adhesive with silane adhesive. Silane parquet adhesives yield a strong and flexible floor, are waterless and solventless, and are

therefore completely safe to use and not hazardous to your health. With the Bona Quantum silane adhesive and the next generation of parquet adhesives, Bona is once again taking a pioneer step in the Bona Sustainability Journey by using sustainable packaging made from recycled plastic buckets. The new packaging has a modern and visual exterior and is made from 75% recycled plastic. This reduces CO² by up to 13%. It also lowers their CO² footprint by about 60%. Bona also uses IML technology (in mound labelling): Packages are produced and labelled during the process. The new packaging reflects their objectives and the results as given in the Bona sustainability report. Their business choices are geared to the 17 global targets of the UN. Bona adhesives are updated in line with the latest environmental standards. Certificates include EMICODE EC1, DiBt, and GREENGUARD, something which ensures ecological products and healthier work environments for professionals. Bona continues to surge ahead with its progressive and sustainable approach.

Emfi

An ecological adhesive is an adhesive with no isocyanates, solvents, or TIO² and with the lowest possible carbon impact. We’re not sure if there are any 100% ecological adhesives on the market. The aim is to give ecological adhesives mechanical properties which are as close as possible to those of traditional adhesives. At EMFI they’ve been selling floor adhesives for a long time which can be defined as ecological. They even endeavour to pack their products in cardboard rather than buckets.

ALL POWER TO ECOLOGY

MANUFACTURERS ARE GOING INCREASINGLY FURTHER IN THEIR QUEST FOR SUSTAINABILITY

What makes a subfloor ecologically responsible? More and more people are asking this question in times when care for the environment and sustainability are now key concepts. Prescribers such as architects are now also equally aware of the importance of operations rooted in a mindset with an eye to tomorrow and therefore manufacturers are responding to the wishes of the market.

When we consider the market, we notice how ecology divides into different facets. Obviously, from the start it’s about making elements of the ideal subfloor as ecological as possible. This means that you completely shun once universally accepted modules like softeners, asbestos, formaldehyde, halogen, and heavy metals and look for alternatives. Obviously, you do so without using solvents or other substances which affect the ozone layer. The alternatives take on many forms, but the main theme here is that the players are striving to use naturally occurring raw materials like mineral fillers and polyurethane binding agents, which can be re-used as much as possible after their active life.

Looking for ecological boundaries

By now, this search for naturally occurring and completely re-usable raw materials is now deeply ingrained in the world of architects. Recently, for instance, we discovered a project in Belgium which makes use solely of locally mined loamy soil for an architect’s own home. The soil was excavated on the site where the home was later to be built and that same soil was then used, for example, to make a rammed earth wall in the interior. You can hardly get more ecological than that (although it should be said that a few minimal additives were inserted to facilitate the processing of the loam). Do you want to remove the wall? If so, it will suffice almost literally to throw water at it and the wall ‘melts’ away. This completes the circle fully since the used earth returns to its original state, namely ‘mud’.

Sustainability also includes acoustics

Sustainability in subfloors also takes on other forms. An important aspect here is that the players are looking for ideal acoustics with the most ecological modules. Here we notice that amongst other things manufacturers are turning to polyurethane products in combination with high-quality insulation base layers which consist for 80% and even more of naturally occurring raw materials. Manufacturers are going a long way in their quest, and this means that in their quest for renewable raw materials they avoid going into competition with other economic sectors. No one wants their operations to put pressure on a sector such as food agriculture.

Another point which should be mentioned for sustainability and maximum ecological awareness is that players are keeping the supply chain as short as possible. We note how they are increasingly refusing

to source raw materials from other parts of the world. Obviously, sourcing from other lands is still necessary for raw materials for which there is no local alternative (you can hardly produce a lithium battery locally if the raw material lithium isn’t available locally). The reason for this is simple: To reduce your ecological footprint as much as possible, you reduce your transport. If the players can use wood from their own forests, they will consider this alternative (and, if necessary thermo-treatment) rather than ordering the best container of wood in China, as happened in the past.

Recycling and reducing waste

What we’re also seeing specifically as regards substrates is that players are increasingly offering insulation substrates which are made from PE material such as synthetics. They are recycling as much as possible for the production of products, whilst they’re also paying more and more attention to recycling their own waste. At the same time, they are trying to look for ideal dimensions for the substrates to create other benefits during both the transport and the assembly on the site.

What’s on the market ?

BONA

BONA U300 – Sound insulation subfloor

A subfloor of bound cork and rubber granules. To be used as a subfloor for parquet, laminate, and other floor coverings. The material has a sound insulation effect.

∫ easy to fit ∫ improves all-round comfort considerably ∫ low risk of fire ∫ low VOC content

Base: fine PU foam and cork granules of recycled rubber, polyurethane binding agent: Colour: brown (cork), black/grey/beige/brown (PU foam).

EMICODE : EC1 Plus Density: about 550kg/ m3; Compressive strength: about 0.8 N/mm²; Elongation at fracture: about 30%;

Thickness: 2, 3, and 5mm (± 0.3 mm)

Temperature range: -30°C to 80°C

Heat transfer coefficient: Fire resistance: Efl (EN 13501)

Suitable substrates: or heated covering floors ∫ covering floor elements, chipboard or multi plex ∫ concrete ∫ mastic asphalt ∫ other expertly prepared substrates.

Design Parquet

You choice your underlayers according to the use. There are 3 objec tives : to sound insulation, to reduce the resonance noise or to create a barrier against moisture backing. Design Parquet offers different underlayers according to your needs.

The most popular Design Parquet underlayers for their convenience are :

- L’iso dB, patented system, is a ecological system (without CO² emanation), providing both fixing the parquet floor with sound insulation (18dB). This underlays allows fast implementation thanks to 2 adhesives faces. Glue isn’t necessary.

- L’iso alu, meanwhile, is a waterproofing underlayer, a real barrier against moisture. We warranty until 10% of humidity in the support. It’s easy to install with the adhesive face. The wood floor is glued on this underlayer with NAVYCOL PS glue.

Dinachoc

Dinachoc is the top specialist in acoustics. Here you choose efficiency and quality and at the same time you help to protect the environment. Their acoustic solution is universal and is adapted specially to most floor coverings. It protects you from noise, whilst you take care of your loved ones. Dinachoc S801 is an underlay which stems from the circular economy and makes a useful raw material of used tyres. With an A+ assessment, it is one of the healthiest solutions in the field of volatile emissions. The underlay is unchanging and will not shrink or fall apart. This is a comfortable and powerful long-term solution with a 50-year guarantee, and all this for professional insulation up to 22dB! For the completion of your fitting, you use Dinachoc C901, a hybrid and mono-component adhesive which is odourless and contains no solvents, isocyanate, or formaldehyde. Moreover, it has

Photo – Dinachoc

THE SECRET LIES IN THE LOOK

REASONS WHY (INTERIOR) ARCHITECTS LIKE TO OPT FOR THIS WOODEN FLOOR

You don’t need to search very long on the worldwide spider’s web to notice that decision makers like (interior) architects like a wooden floor such as industrial parquet. This will come as no surprise when you realise that most (interior) architects clearly have some unanimous preferences. Below we set out what we believe are those main preferences and how industrial parquet fits in.

Durable and ecologically responsible

The durability and ecological properties of this type of wooden floor are probably the main reasons. Nowadays, decision makers are particularly sensitive to such arguments, whether it’s a commercial or residential installation. If we take the concept of durability absolutely literally, you see just how strong and hard-wearing this type of wooden floor is. Some historical input is called for here. In the past, people fitted industrial parquet mainly in high-traffic areas, such as industrial premises. They used a sort of parquet made from a combination of diverse wooden slats or strips which were ‘bundled’ together to make one whole. And so, they actually used pieces of surplus wood so that hardly any wood was wasted, and this immediately illustrates the ecological aspect. An added bonus was that this ‘industrial parquet’ also yielded extra benefits. Since the wood fibres of this type of wooden floor provide better insulation for sound vibrations, there is less troublesome noise. That was a considerable asset in a typical factory. It goes without saying that this was also a huge asset when these floors entered the residential environment.

Special look

Another point is that interior architects always look for products with a special look, and industrial parquet has this in abundance. Actually, you’re furnishing the floor with a sort of mosaic parquet with the mosaic on its side. Here you use floor elements in diverse thicknesses (often from 10 to 22mm), widths (between about 7 to 20mm), lengths, and wood sorts. As regards those wood sorts, it goes without saying that you almost automatically choose from exotic sorts, such as wenge or walnut to typical oak. Moreover, for those who want things to be even more ecological, there’s also bamboo, which isn’t actually wood, but a grass fibre.

In projects you notice that (interior) architects like to use this for highlights in places such as shops where the walkways are ideal. This certainly isn’t a hindrance to use in private dwellings, and in fact there’s more to be said for it. Industrial parquet is actually very much in fashion since it is perfect for floor heating when thinner slats are used.

Fitting requires expertise

Unlike most general contractors, most decision makers such as (interior) architects usually don’t take account of price considerations. These days, designers greatly appreciate expertise, certainly because it gives them the opportunity to present their expertise to clients,

especially private ones. If there’s one sort of floor which requires expertise, then it’s industrial parquet. For instance, it is always glued, and that makes it somewhat less accessible for the average handyperson. Moreover, you also need to know how to provide a sturdy and solid base and the fitting itself is followed by careful sanding. Firstly, you sand flat en fine, and then you need to fill in any joints. You follow that up with more fine-sanding and polishing until you have a perfectly flat look which is finally ready for finishing with the correct finish product. This will undoubtedly be music to the ears of all parquet fitters.

Design Parquet

Industrial parquet wooden floors consist of solid wood, and industrial strips for 99%. Their popularity has diminished somewhat as wide planks have become more popular, but Design Parquet does still get various requests for them each year. This type of wooden floor is only fitted with glue. After the fitting, the floor has to be sandpapered to avoid any differences in level and, after that, you apply a finish with oil or varnish. Design Parquet offers a wide range of industrial parquet in various wood sorts. Oak is the most popular, certainly for major projects (such as, for example, the Carreau du Temple in Paris, which was a customised project), but they also offer ash, acacia, beech, merbau, komea, and wenge in thicknesses of 10, 14, 20, 22, or 24mm. For this type of parquet it is not possible to present a special surface aspect such as offered by Design Parquet on all solid wood or birch multiplex bases: distressed, heavily brushed, or with saw marks. They always leave the edges ‘rough’, so the ultimate choice of finish lies with the architect or the end client. These edges are sandpapered in the classic manner. After the glueing, all the planks are sandpapered smooth to remove all defects. Filling before the finish is obligatory so that small cracks between the planks are sealed. The biggest benefit of this type of wooden floor is its strength. Industrial wooden floors have great resistance to shocks, so they can take a knock. What we often see in large public areas is that there is often a border finish. This is done because it adds depth and increases the visibility of the floor. You can see this product as ‘recycled’ and that makes the price affordable. The industrial wood is not so expensive, but it does take a lot of time to fit this type of floor due to its cope.

THE WOODWORK INDUSTRY IN FIGURES

PARQUET FLOOR SECTOR HAS NOT COMPLETELY RECOVERED FROM THE DECLINE EARLY IN 2020

How is the Belgian woodwork industry doing? To answer that question, we called on Fedustria, the professional association of companies from the textile, wood, and furniture industries. Filip De Jaeger, deputy director general, examines the main figures from 2021 with us and summarises developments since the start of 2022 for us.

Turnover

Before we listen to Mr De Jaeger, we mention that in 2021 the woodwork industry numbered exactly 377 companies, which together employed 7751 people. Turnover was four billion euros.

‘Turnover in the woodwork industry rose by 30.3% in 2021 as compared to 2020, but we should point out that the volume fell by 5.1 %,’ he says. ‘Also during the first quarter of 2022, turnover rose considerably by 27.3%. However, in view of the spectacular rise of 42% in the output price, turnover fell by 10.4% in volume as compared to the first quarter of 2021.’

‘Panels, construction elements, and packages have enjoyed an increase in turnover in value, but a fall in volume due to the sharp rise in output prices. It’s only with other woodwork where the rise in output prices has stayed within limits that there’s been an increase in turnover for both the value and the volume. Generally speaking, you can say that France, the Netherlands, and Germany are still our main markets. In the area of import, China is still the main supplier.’

Investments and utilisation rates

‘Still at the start of 2022, we’ve established that investments came to 53.9 million euros, which is good for an increase of 72.8% as compared to the first quarter of 2021. A year earlier, in 2021, investments in the wood industry also rose by 42% as compared to 2020.’

‘Furthermore, the utilisation rate of the production capacity was 82.9 % during the first half of 2022. One year earlier, in 2021, this was still 88.8%, which therefore means that there has been a sharp fall during the first half of 2022. Exports during the first five months of 2022 rose by 27.9% as compared to the same period in 2021 and imports during the same period increased by 24.1% as compared to the same period in 2021.’

Turnover in parquet floors has fallen

At the same time, we were also given a summary of the turnover of wooden construction elements from 2019 to mid-2022 and it emerged that there were various deductions to be made for the parquet sector. The turnover of the sector as a whole rose quite sharply in 2021 (with the exception of a dip in 2020, from 935.9 million euros in 2019 to 913.0 million euros in 2020. Turnover 2021: 1124.9 million euros) and this continued during the first six months of 2022 (577.2 million euros in 2022 as compared to 554.1 during the same period in 2021, what comes to a rise of 4.2%.

The parquet sector figures deviate somewhat from this trend. Whilst in 2019 turnover was still 23.4 million euros, we notice firstly in 2020 a much sharper fall than elsewhere to 17.3% (or a shrinkage of 26.1%). However, after that, there was merely a slight recovery with a turnover of 20.2 million euros in 2021. That is 16.8% better than in the previous year, but still well below the reference year of 2019. Yet the general turnover in wooden construction elements in that year rose gently as compared to the year before. During the first six months of 2022, there was a slight improvement. This period saw a turnover of 10.9 million euros as compared to 9.8% in the first six months of 2021.

B-FIX

B-Fix can present nearly 20 years of experience in invisible fastening systems for terraces and planks and accompanying accessories. B-Fix is the fruit of years of expertise in fitting wooden terraces and outdoor woodwork in general. The most important product is the B-Fix invisible fastening system, a universal system deployed for a whole range of wood sorts and composites. The company steers a consistent course thanks to product innovations and expansion into new markets. B-Fix employs six people on the payroll, but, apart from them, several other people are involved in the activities. The sheltered workshop, which concentrates on packing, is an integral part of the projects. Each year, the company completes several hundred thousands of square metres and the capacity leaves room for growth. Innovation is an ongoing concern. B-Fix will by the way launch a revolutionary product at the beginning of 2023. +32 (0) 10 40 07 90 - info@b-fix.be - www.b-fix.be

VANDECASTEELE HOUTIMPORT

FORWARD

The Belgian fifth-generation family company, founded in 1883 Vandecasteele Houtimport specialises in the import, trading and export of Tropical Hardwood from Africa, Southeast Asia and South America, Scandinavian and North-American Softwood, North American and European Hardwood. “Vandecasteele Houtimport is fully committed to certified timber” says Isabelle Polfliet, Compliance Manager at Vandecasteele, we’re living in challenging times. But, it’s for times like these we exist. With over 140 years of experience, we know there’s only one way : forward.

Masters in diversification

Vandecasteele Houtimport imports more than 130 different species of timber coming from 40 countries and has over 105,000 cubic meters in stock, mainly certified hard- and softwoods. Sustainability and reliability are an essential part of Vandecasteele Houtimport’s DNA. “We support the LKTS program of FSC® Denmark. With this we want to help promote the use of lesser known species. We keep these lesser-known species in stock and offer them as an alternative. Everybody is looking for alternatives for Siberian Larch since the ban on Russian imports. We have over 15 timber species that we can offer as alternatives, such as FSC® Certified Niové,, Movingui, Mukulungu, Tali, Padouk, Jutai, Angelim Amargosso,, Red Louro, Sucupira Preta, Sucupira Vermelho, Jatoba, Mandioquira, Cumaru, Basrolucus, Guariuba, Tatajuba, European Oak, Muiricatiara, Purpleheart, Louro Preto,… Too often, timber is prescribed from a specific well-known specie. From the point of view of responsible forest management, one must dare to choose the right durability class for an application instead of a specific type of timber, says Geneviève Standaert, export manager at Vandecasteele Houtimport.

Rethink everything

We notice a positive evolution in consumer purchasing behaviour says Geneviève Standaert, Export Manager at Vandecasteele. Customers are increasingly asking questions about certification and the origin of the timber. Buyers are becoming more and more aware of the need to use certified timber. “Importing tropical wood goes further than just asking for certified timber. There is a continuous evolution, because of new insights, new legislation, etc. Considerable steps have already been taken with the arrival of the EU Timber Regulation, but we can and should do better. “We want to see and monitor a stronger application and support for certified timber. The purchase of FSC® certified wood contributes to 14 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (or SDG’s) of the United Nations’. Since the year 2000 Vandecasteele Houtimport has committed itself through the Corporate Durability Charter by signing up to environmental objectives exceeding the applicable legislation. In 2018, the charter started a partnership with CIFAL Flanders, the local HUB of UNITAR, the Training and Education centre of the UN. In 2020, Vandecasteele Houtimport was the first timber company in the world to have obtained the international recognized ‘SDG Pioneer certificate’ from UNITAR CIFAL. This year, in 2022, we are the first timber company in the world to have achieved the SDG Champion award. genevieve@vandecasteele.be - www.vandecasteele.be

Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke België vandecasteele.be

genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32

Buying from a responsible supplier makes you a responsible customer.

Using timber is good Using certified timber is wonderful

FLOORCONCEPTS

DEVOMAT INDUSTRIES

The Future @ your feet

With over 20 years of experience in treatment and maintenance of wooden surfaces, you will not only have the future at your feet at Floorconcepts, but also the know-how and knowledge ! As an importer and distributor, we have tested and evaluated each and every one of our brands, to make sure we are offering brands that we support 100%. This matters not only to us, but to our customers as well : quality, reliability and efficiency are determining factors, as well as minimizing our ecological footstep … For decades, craftsmen have found their way to us: installation, renovation or maintenance of wooden floors, inside and outside : we are here to support them in any way and offer solutions for their specific challenges. Whether you need advice concerning the use of the correct glue, abrasives, finishing and maintenance products for wooden surfaces, Floorconcepts is there for you ! Floorconcepts is investing in the future : our new building validates this point of view : more storage space means more flexibility and faster service if necessary, this in service of the craftsmen and floor installers !

+32 (0) 59 339 440 - info@floorconcepts.eu - www.floorconcepts.eu

Devomat Industries was founded on 8 February 1980, and started developing the Woodboy® machine and related products. A system that quickly became a great success, with a brand name that has almost become a household name. Over the years, Devomat Industries has continued to develop and today mainly serves the professional market with a full range of primers, adhesives, oils, lacquers, maintenance products, machines, abrasives and accessories for parquet and plank- flooring. The core activity of Devomat Industries is the development and commercialisation of "Devo®Professional Floor Products", a full range of machines, abrasives and products for the installation and finishing of parquet floors and the maintenance of all types of floors. Devo's main products are Lignum Pura: the invisible wood protection, High Solid Oil: a high performance single layer oil, Master 3D: the efficient 3-disc machine, and after 40 years still the Woodboy machine. Devomat has 14 employees at the head office for sales and distribution in Belgium. Recently, Devomat Industries launched the new parquet sanders Devo Belt MC 200 and Devo Speed XS 150 and XS 150. Technical innovations have been implemented on the Devo Master 3D. In 2018, Devo Turbo Fiberpad caused a shockwave in sanding materials country. At this moment the launch of a new groundbreaking invisible finishing product "Lignum Pura" has started. Export goes to the Netherlands, France, GH-Luxembourg, Germany, Romania, Latvia, and USA. +32 (0)3 450 94 70 - info@devomat.be - www.devomat.bewww.devonatural.be - www.woodboy.be

BONA

Bona’s head office is located in Malmö, Sweden and the company also has offices worldwide in Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rumania, Singapore, Slovakia, Spain, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland), and the United States.

Bona also has five production units worldwide. Bona has a committed and passionate team of over 500 employees, who aim ‘to bring out the best in floors’. Bona’s combination of experience, knowledge, and technology and its 17 international offices give you high performance and safe and sustainable solutions. Ever since Bona was formed in 1919, its central threads have been passion, performance, and pioneering. Those are their values and you will find them in all that they do, from their products and corporate culture to their sustainable method of work. It’s about more than just the way in which they run the company; it’s also about their interaction with the rest of the world.

+32 (0) 2 72 12 759 - infobelgium@bona.comwww.bona.com - Facebook: Bona Professional Belgium

EUROSUGI - PRODUCT PROOF

Eurosugi = Cryptomeria japonica = Burnt wood from Europe

In Japan, the Cryptomeria japonica (a very common tree species there) or Japanese cypress is used for Yakisugi (aka Shou Sugi Ban). In the past it was noticed that by burning the wood of this tree species, you obtained certain benefits. The wood became more durable, had a fire retardant effect and was more resistant to insects, water and even fungi. As a result, a lot was built with this wood, the lifespan of which went from 30 to even 80 to 100 years.

The discovery that the Japanese cypress also occurs in Europe, accelerated our commercial efforts.

Eurosugi is now available!

As from August 2022, we are launching a new product under the name Eurosugi. The wood is imported and burned, processed and finished in Belgium. Eurosugi, which is 22 mm thick, is currently available in 2 lengths (3 meters and 2.6 meters) and 2 widths (190 mm and 40 mm) with rounded corners.

If Eurosugi hits the bull's eye, a production unit will also be set up in the Netherlands.

The wood is processed and finished Product-Proof recently invested in a second incinerator and a completely new coating line was launched. The investment in a brand new brushing machine for processing the wood is now a fact. All possible types of operations and finishes can be found on the website https://eurosugi.com

Dealers wanted in Europe

With Eurosugi, we will also make a stock product. This is important because we certainly have to be able to respond to demand for standard products in stock. Product-Proof wants to sell the wood through dealers throughout Europe. We therefore wish to list the dealers on the website https://eurosugi.com so that they can resell the product themselves in their region. info@product-proof.com - www.product-proof.com

OOSTERLINCK HOUT

A 100 % family owned and managed manufacturer of wooden floors for three generations. We know almost all about wood and process it to high quality parquets both solid and engineered. Situated in Belgium, the center of Western Europe, with a flexible and fast transport system to every corner of Europe. No obligation to order by full container but just in time deliveries of the neeeded quantity to meet the wishes of every individual customer. We have a fixed programm but can also propose any type of parquet (species, sizes, finishes…) on the condition that the wood is available or can be found on the market. We always have important stocks of rough sawn wood available in oak, walnut… and tropical species like Wengé, Iroko Kambala, Jatoba, Afzelia, Merbau… and mostly produce commision wise. More and more flooring buyers and distributors experience the difficullties which can occur when buying overseas, expecially from China. The Covid crises and the protests of the people against the undemocratic system, causes high problems and delays in shipments. Moreover the Chines productions are not cheap anymore and top oak grades like Prime, Bis (small knots) and the top-Character/Rustic grade A have become very difficult to get and if available, are sold at prices sometimes higher than ours. They can also oblige you to add some lower grades to obtain the higher ones. Claims remain unsolved and you get no money back. So contact us by mail, phone or contact/visit us personally because we love discussing with people face to face. N - F -  - D… contact us without obligation. We speak Dutch, French, German and English. +32 (0) 51 65 75 41sales@oosterlinck-hout.be - www.oosterlinck-hout.be

RUBIO MONOCOAT: BIG AT

HOME AND ABROAD

Rubio Monocoat is known as a brand with a wide choice of products for wood protection. For colours there are endless options as well. The ‘King of Colours’ became big thanks to the revolutionary technology of molecular binding. Today, the Rubio Monocoat family covers more than 82 countries, with around 250 employees worldwide. Meanwhile, more than 80,000,000 m² of wood is protected and colored with Rubio Monocoat oil every year.

Rubio Monocoat offers lots of products for interior, exterior and the industry. The range has been expanded over the years including optional pre-colours and a complete range of maintenance and cleaning products. The top product of the pioneer remains Oil Plus 2C, a still unprecedented oil that colors and protects your interior wood in one single layer. Thanks to the advanced and unique technology of molecular binding, Rubio Monocoat oil guarantees sustainable protection that doesn’t harm the environment and its users (0% VOC), and this in 40 standard colours. In addition, the wood oil Hybrid Wood Protector (20 colours) and the wax cream WoodCream (27 colours) are the perfect example of innovation and quality for protecting your exterior wood. In need of the right tips & tricks? Or looking for inspiration for your next project? Then be sure to follow our social media channels through @rubiomonocoat or visit our website www.rubiomonocoat.com. +32 (0) 51 30 80 54 - info@rubiomonocoat.com

KERKHOFS PARKET

Kerkhofs Parket traces its history back to 1993 when just two people did the production. Today, the team comprises 17 people and their capacity is 220,000m² per annum. They can call upon a strong European network based mainly in England and the Netherlands. Kerkhofs Parket manufactures only solid parquet floors. They specialise in producing customised floors or ‘Bespoke Flooring’. Think here of herringbone, Hungarian point, or Viennese point and a huge variety of style panels like Versailles and Chantilly. The most renowned parquet floors are Burgundy, which is 8/9mm thick, and classic Tapis (traditional parquet), with a thickness of 6mm. In addition, Kerkhofs Parket also has a wide range of multilayer wooden floors in various patterns and mosaics. You can also contact them for glues, oils and lacquers of various brands. +32 11 63 64 00 - info@parketkerkhofs.be - www.parketkerkhofs.be

OUTDOOR WOOD CONCEPTS®

Woodface®, original façade solutions from Outdoor Wood Concepts® Outdoor Wood Concepts® launched its Woodface® façade cladding on the market in 2014. This unique solution, in which wood is alternated with aluminium, allows for infinite combinations. Woodface® owes its timeless appeal to designer Roel Vandebeek - #itsaroel. Woodface® was conferred a Henry van de Velde label in 2014 and selected by Designregio Kortrijk as one of the region’s 50 most innovative products. Thanks to Woodface®, every façade is given a distinct #itsaroel stamp: - A pronounced vertical interplay of lines - A sense of rhythm and texture thanks to the pattern created by alternating differently shaped wooden profiles

between wood and

to info@outdoorwoodconcepts.be or give us a call on +32 (0)56 - 967140 - www.outdoorwoodconcepts.be

A deep passion for wood. A keen eye for detail. Years of craftsmanship, combined with the most modern productiontechniques in there factory in Belgium. That’s Nobel. Nobel Flooring is the specialist in XXL boards in European oak or Douglas. Widths from 16 to 60 cm are possible, as are lengths up to 15 m, both solid and engineered. ( 2 ply – 3 ply ). Classic patterns such as herringbone, Hungarian point or custom made to your own design or size, are also produced by Nobel Flooring. To complete the interior, Nobel also manufactures stair treads, interior doors and cabinetry in the same material, colour and finish to match the parquet. A warm heart for the most beautiful finishes. That’s Nobel too. To guarantee the durability of the parquet or stair treads, Nobel finishes everything with high-quality products in the trendiest colours. Here too, Nobel offers the option of your own colour range or custom finishes. In addition to the esthetic aspect, great importance is also attached to guarantee an easy maintenance of the parquet. The passionate team is determined to deliver that high-quality time after time again, to take that extra step towards that perfect wooden floor or to make that wonderfully elegant staircase for B2B or B2C. As a leading Belgian parquet manufacturer, Nobel Flooring exports his high-quality parquet worldwide. Whether you are an architect or an interior designer, a project developer or a private individual, Nobel helps you to turn your idea and inspiration into reality. The experienced sales team will be happy to welcome you in their modern showroom in Hoogstraten (BE) or Knokke (BE). Surf to www.nobelflooring.com for inspiration.

+32 (0)3 314 30 56 - info@nobelflooring.com - www.nobelflooring.com

∂ Industry news

The Pervanovo Group takes over the Croatian furniture manufacturer Spin Valis

The Pervanovo Group, which includes the companies Bjelin Industries in Croatia and the Välinge Group in Sweden, signed an agreement, through its daughter company Välinge Croatia, to acquire a controlling stake in the Croatian furniture manufacturing company Spin Valis. Such a takeover enables the Pervanovo group to achieve its internal goals for the production of furniture using Välinge's click technology faster than originally planned. At the same time, it enables Spin Valis to concentrate production even more into final products of the highest level of added value. Spin Valis is one of the largest Croatian manufacturers of massive furniture with a long-standing tradition. The production also includes the production of elements, glued panels, briquettes and the production of electricity and thermal energy obtained from biomass and solar panels. Spin Valis has its headquarters in Požega, currently has 420 employees, for whom we expect their successful integration into the Pervanovo group system and maintaining full employment. We look forward to working with them and realizing their full working and professional potential.

Visit www.floor-forum.com

Product news

SOEST

The Soest Machinery PUR Line engineered flooring system is a unique composition of our PUR hot-melt roller coater, lay-up conveyor and multi-roller press for all of your engineered flooring production needs.

The working process:

The reactive poly-urethane (PUR) glue is melted in a drum melter and automatically being pumped into the roller coater. On the core material, mostly plywood, the PUR hotmelt glue is applied, around 120 gr/m2. By hand the operator puts the oak lamella on top of the glued core. The roller press now strongly presses both pieces together. The production process is much faster than using PVA glues in a normal cold press. The PVA gluing / pressing process takes around 30-40 minutes, our new PUR line can be used in a continued production process. So this is a big advantage! This way you can avoid the stack press and work continuously and stack the pieces directly onto the pallet. We believe this new technique is essential to those who need to reduce their production time, resulting in a higher output rate. And of course these new PUR machines can also be used for several other purposes, like adding an insulation layer to flooring or making wall panels, like the very popular acoustic wooden slat panels for example.

VÄLINGE EXPANDS AND STRENGTHENS THEIR PRESENCE IN VIETNAM WITH AN ON-SITE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

New Business Development Manager in Vietnam Vietnam is a steadily growing market for Välinge, and the company is experiencing an increase in demand for both their flooring and their furniture technologies. To meet the rising interest, they are boosting their presence with an on-site Business Development Manager.

“We are excited to have Phuc Lecanh on our team and we are looking forward to finally have the possibility to offer our expertise and guidance on the ground in Vietnam and Cambodia. This means great benefits for existing and potential licensees. Phuc will play a central role in building our business in this area”, says Andreas Engström, Key Account Manager at Välinge.

Read more on www.floor-forum.com/en/news

75% OF

SPACE AT LIGNA 2023 ALREADY BOOKED

Despite a series of extraordinary challenges, including rising energy prices, material shortages and economic uncertainties in many markets, the woodworking and wood processing industry is in good spirits some six months before LIGNA. Hannover, Germany. Despite a series of extraordinary challenges, including rising energy prices, material shortages and economic uncertainties in many markets, the woodworking and wood processing industry is in good spirits some six months before LIGNA. Around two-thirds of LIGNA’s longstanding exhibitors have already confirmed their participation for 2023, with 75 percent of the available exhibition space already occupied. From 15 to 19 May 2023, the industry will convene at its flagship trade fair in Hannover, Germany.

Read more on www.floor-forum.com/en/news

Our PUR Hotmelt glueing line

Our magazine, that is distributed all over the world, targets professionals from the floor coverings sector and the wooden façade claddings. Floor Forum International, that from its start focussed on parquet floors both indoor and outdoor, every year aims at informing its readers about the newest trends and novelties. In it, among other things, you read all about trends and innovations for parquet floors, and this in all kind of wood species, vinyl, LVT, PVC, wooden façade claddings, glues, varnishes, subfloors, deckings,…

For more than 17 years already, Floor Forum International is appreciated by all the major players in the sector, who help determine the contents of the magazine thanks to their novelties that are accompanied by the necessary explanation. In every edition, the magazine singles out one particular country. In doing this, the readers not only discover the sociopolitical history of that country, but at the same time are also informed about the economic potential for what wood is concerned.

Are you an installer of parquet floors or a timber trader, an importer, a distributor, a wholesaler, a carpenter with employees, an agent, an interior architect, an interior designer, a decorator, a manager of a shop specializing in decoration, an entrepreneur in the world of construction or a manufacturer…? If this is the case, our magazine is an exceptionally good source of reference for you.

If you want to take a subscription, all you need to do is send an email to info@media-pact.com. You can also surf to the header ‘Subscribe’ on the website of Floor Forum International : www.floor-forum.com.

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