SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF
Flooring Profits are Found in Doing the Best Work
It Starts With The Subfloor
T
● Is the subfloor porous or non-porous? ● What is the physical condition of the subfloor?
he success of every flooring project begins with the subfloor. A smooth, strong, durable flooring installa-
tion owes most of its qualities to the preparation of the subfloor. Conversely, a floor installation failure often results from subfloor issues. Flooring professionals know this, but many flooring customers do not. Not talking about the subfloor
●A re there elevation changes, peaks, or valleys across the subfloor? ●A re there time constraints to be considered with the subfloor preparation? ●W hat are the performance needs for the final flooring surface?
conditions with flooring customers is a sorely missed opportunity every time. Here’s why.
The questions may vary in how each is presented based
Subfloor issues concern flooring customers. They know
on the nature of the project, the customer’s knowledge of
the issues should be addressed and rely on flooring profes-
flooring projects, and whether you are able to be on-site or
sionals to guide them through the process, developing a plan
not with the customer. Gathering information enhances the
for project success. The greater the number and degree of
subfloor answers you can provide and guides customers
subfloor issues, the greater the opportunity to help custom-
through the decisions they make for their project plans.
ers. Making the subfloor an integral part of the discussion for
Schönox HPS North America provides access to techni-
any flooring project ensures the customer gets what is needed
cal professionals who can address the issues surfaced with
for the subfloor and the flooring retailer maximizes the overall
the above questions. Their comprehensive subfloor products
product offering in the sale. It’s a clear win for both.
equip flooring professionals and customers with the solutions
The process starts with the right questions. Many con-
needed for durable, long-lasting flooring installations. Solv-
versations with flooring customers focus on the floor cov-
ing subfloor issues builds long-term relationships between
ering. Style considerations, durability requirements, and
customers and retailers. Retailers tap into Schönox’s team
top-surface performance questions fill those conversations,
daily for answers and support.
but the subfloor for every flooring project should be consid-
Subfloors are important and they are getting even more
ered just as closely. While not an exhaustive list, the following
so given the tremendous growth of floor coverings such as
questions for flooring customers will help determine the best pathway for high-quality subfloor preparation: ● Is the flooring project indoors or outdoors? ● I f the substrate is concrete, are there any moisture issues? ●D oes the subfloor have any contaminants or residual materials? ● I s the subfloor gypsum, concrete, wood, or some other material? Flooring professionals should embrace not fear challenging subfloor issues that provide opportunities to help customers, building longterm relationships and project successes along the way.
18 Premier Flooring Retailer | Digital 4 2020
