COVID-19 Pandemic Business Survival Resource Guide

Q1 | 2020

The official magazine of the World Floor Covering Association

Premier FLOORING RETAILER

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COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Business Survival Resource Guide

Coronavirus Response Resource Center wfca.org/covid19-updates

WFCA is Working with our Partners at Lobbyit.com to Provide Our Industry with the Most Up-To-Date Information.

We have compiled an ever-growing body of resources as well as industry-specific interpretations of ongoing legislation on our website.

Lobbyit is nationally recognized and critically acclaimed for their groundbreaking business model and with their help, we’ve secured WFCA’s place among DC’s legislators. Lobbyit has been on top of all of the issues surrounding the COVID-19 crisis. This relationship has allowed us to produce unique resources to help our members and the industry navigate these challenging times, including: • Understanding PPP Loans

• Cash Flow Relief in Coronavirus Response Act

• Understanding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)

• FAQs for COVID-19 Insurance Coverage

• Fraud During the Coronavirus • Business Interruption Insurance & Coronavirus • Understanding SBA Crisis Loans

• Q&A’s about Coronavirus and the Impact of Legislation on Business • Understanding The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act

Visit the WFCA Covid-19 Resource Center to access all of the pressing documents and the Q&A from Lobbyit and WFCA’s Legal Counsel, Jeff King.

Our ability to continue to push for the legislative action that supports our industry relies on the power of our collective voice. Your membership has never been more important.

Primary Membership is Now Free. Visit wfca.org and join today.

The official magazine of the World Floor Covering Association

Premier FLOORING RETAILER Q1 2020

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The “WOW” Factor Guest editorial by Chris Gingrasso

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“Shelter-in-Place” Orders: What Do They Require?

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Will Your Business Survive the Pandemic?

Lisbeth Calandrino

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How Often Do You Check Your Bank Statement? It Should Be Every Day Jeffery W. King, Legal Counsel for the WFCA

Metroflor LVT from the Déjà New collection in the color PumiceWashed

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Tarkett Streamlines Sales Support for FEMA and Emergency Response

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It’s What He Costs You that Counts Tom Jennings, Retail Training Expert

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Piet Dossche Inducted into WFCA Hall of Fame

24 RFCI Introduces Industry-Wide Standards for Rigid-Core LVT Quality: ASSURE CERTIFIED 25

COVID-19 Ideas from FloorForce

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Do You Suffer from SAOD? Lewis Davis, Senior Director of Technology and Research

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FAQs for COVID-19 Insurance Coverage Risk Strategies Company

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Ask the Expert … Good Advice to Stick With Gary Scheidker, Taylor Adhesives

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Seamless Virtual Consultations Using Karndean Designflooring Resources

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The Concrete Slab RH Test — So Easy Your Whole Team Can (and Should) Do It Jason Spangler, Wagner Meters’ Flooring Division Manager

39 Wagner Meter Rapid RH® L6 System Now Integrates with the MeasureSquare™ Takeoff Estimating Platform 40

Free Tools from MeasureSquare for Flooring Retailers

42

Knowledge is Power: Installer and Retail Training from Metroflor

46 Integrate and Automate to Save Time and Money: RollMaster Software Makes Doing Business Easier 48

What’s the Best Option for You? Setting Up Your Store’s Technology Chad Ogden, QFloors President/CEO

52 Thirty-five Years in Business. Over Ninety Employees. Thousands of Clients.

RFMS is Here for You 56

Schönox Offers Social Distance Learning Program

59

AHF Products’ COVID-19 Update to Our Valued Customers

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Engineered Floors: PureBac, DW Select, and twistX

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Courtesy of Risk Strategies Company: CDC: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

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Courtesy of Risk Strategies Company: CARE Act Funding Information

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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TAKING THE LEAD

The “Wow” Factor

by Chris Gingrasso This month I have asked Chris Gingrasso to provide a guest blog (article). Chris is a dear friend and the mastermind behind the book and movement known as “The Wow Factor.”

I am honored to be a contributing Author in this first edition. The premise in the book is 52 inspiring chapters from 47 authors. Each chapter takes a word, defines it, illustrates it, and gives you practical steps to apply the learning to your life. 52 chapters, enough for one chapter a week for a year. Even those who hate to read can commit the minimal time required to make a significant change in their lives. Since many of us are in a forced slow down due to the Coronavirus, there is no better time than now to invest in yourself. This too will pass.

Don’t waste this opportunity to improve yourself, and thus inspire those around you to do

Scott Humphrey CEO, WFCA

likewise. You can acquire a copy of The Wow Factor at a special discount by going to: www.wowfactor.live. After you receive your book, don’t miss my chapter on Discipline. Enjoy!

“I believe your atmosphere and your surroundings create a mind state for you.”

— Theophilus London

ATMOSPHERE [ atm s fir] Noun 1.The envelope of gases surrounding the earth or another planet 2.The pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of art

A An atmosphere is a surrounding environment or influence.

It is not only a protective shield surrounding our planet so we can live, it is also a protective shield protecting our lives.

n atmosphere is a surrounding environment or influence. It is not only a protective shield surrounding our planet so we can live, it is also a protective shield protecting our lives. This is true of our homes and also the offices in which we work.

For example, if you or your coworkers talk behind each other’s backs, you will create a nasty atmosphere at work.

Think about this: Some things simply cannot survive when the atmosphere is not compatible with them. In other words, if something is not similar, or at least complementary, then it simply cannot exist there.

I remember fishing with my oldest son. We were deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico when a crazy thing happened. I was reeling in a fish (a mighty huge one, of course). When it finally landed in the boat and we were pulling the hook from its mouth, I had the thought that it sure must be a crazy feeling to be that fish when all of a sudden you are about to take a bite of your lunch, and then, in a split second, your whole world changes.

Just then, he (I think it was a boy fish) freaked out and wigged and flapped so much that he bounced off the bottom of the boat, back into the water. Why did this happen? I am guessing, but it might be because that fish was determined to be back in a familiar place. Maybe he instinctively knew he had to get to a place where the atmosphere was right for him if he were to survive.

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Ask yourself, “What is the atmosphere in the office where I work?”

What about the atmosphere of your home? Now that harder question: How have you contributed to the reality you feel?

I wish I were more like fish sometimes. I wish I would fight to stay in a healthy atmosphere.

Perhaps too often, we all just sang along with Doris Day when she sang, “Que sera, sera, whatever will be will be…” No! We have the ability, as leaders, to help create the atmosphere we desire. Think about this. If we create an atmosphere of optimism, how can pessimistic people survive there? They will, like the fish, jump out of the boat.

Ask yourself, “What is the atmosphere in the office where I work?” What about the atmosphere of your home? Now that harder question: How have you contributed to the reality you feel?

Have you ever walked into a room and just “felt” something? Maybe you could not even explain it. Was it sad? Was it exciting? What caused that feeling? Perhaps it was an individual or a group of people, who created the atmosphere in the room. We actually have the ability to create a mood in a room.

For me, this becomes especially important when I come home after traveling for the day of work. I focus on what I can do to bring an atmosphere of peace, joy, and love. And to be honest, I have no idea what I will walk into. You see, after years of providing foster care to teenagers, on any given day, we usually have a few extra children at our house. Combined with my own crazy bunch, and their friends, it can be a circus, as some have described. So, what I bring home needs to be the peace, joy, and love I mentioned earlier. It is the same in the workplace. If you are in an office, what atmosphere do you allow to exist? You might say, “Well, I am not the boss, or the owner,” but it does not matter! Each of us has the ability to help create the atmosphere around us. For example, if you do not want gossip to be part of your environment, then nip it in the bud, as soon as it rears its ugly head! ❚ Following the five E’s below can help you create a healthy, positive atmosphere:

1. Envision what can be, and do not settle for anything else.

2. Examine your heart to see if there’s anything you are doing or saying that is negativity contributing to the atmosphere.

3. Encourage others to participate in the positive direction and focus.

4. Embrace your good feelings.

5. Enjoy the atmosphere you helped create.

“Behave so the aroma of your actions may enhance the general sweetness of the atmosphere.”

— Henry David Thoreau

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One United Voice.

Your Membership Matters.

As a member, you are an important part of a unified voice focused on addressing the issues affecting our entire industry. You have access to a suite of resources designed to enhance your business, cut costs, and increase profits.

Research

Education

Member Benefits

Philanthropy

Advocacy The World Floor Covering Association exists to ensure the success and profitability of professional floor covering dealers and to protect their common interests.

Technology

Make sure your voice is heard. Visit wfca.org or call 855.330.1183 to become a member today for FREE.

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Exclusive Membership Voucher Program.

Discounts from our Partners The WFCA 2020 Voucher Program provides our members with exclusive discounts and offers from our industry partners, including: Rollmaster, Flooring Success Sytems, Risk Strategies, Lignomat, Metroflor, Phenix, Q-Floors, RFMS, and Inspect Solutions.

See https://wfca.org/membership-vouchers to take advantage of your membership and download your vouchers today! Be sure to check our site often as we continue adding more partners to this program.

ADD THE POWER OF PODIUM TO YOUR WFCA MEMBERSHIP

Whether it’s winning more leads, earning repeat customers, or simply doing more as a team, Podium powers every local business interaction in a modern, convenient way.

See https://wfca.org/page/podium for more information.

WFCA Members Receive an Exclusive Discount!

Flooring Retailer | Q1for 2020 Make sure your voice is heard. Visit wfca.org or call 855.330.1183 Premier to become a member today FREE.5

Need more than a hug?

If you are ba�ling a catastrophic illness, injury or disability and have been a floor covering employee for 5+ years, check out the Floor Covering Industry Founda�on’s financial assistance program at

FCIF.ORG

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We are part of the solution. Are you?

Take action. Make a difference. Join the movement.

Be a part of the solution to solve the installation crisis.

Visit wfca.org/fcef or call 855.330.1183

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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5

COVID-19

“Shelter-in-Place” Orders: What Do They Require?

T

o date 18 states, 31 local counties, 13 cities and the Navajo Nation have issued “shelter-in-place” orders. The result is a patchwork of local and state directives that use a

variety of terms, like “shelter in place,” “safer at home,” “quarantines,” and “isolation” orders.

These orders can be confusing and often unclear. Understanding which businesses can stay open is often difficult to understand.

To assist members, WFCA has provided below two links that allow access to all the orders in place, as well as guidance on how to interpret the orders and suggested precautions to take.

Links: Members can identify “shelter-in-place” orders that may impact their business using these links: ■ The New York Times lists all the states and localities that have quarantine orders with a link to the orders: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/coronavirus-stay-at-home-order.html ■ The state governors association also has a site that can be used to access state and local orders: https://www.nga.org/coronavirus/#states.

All the orders include businesses and workers that are exempt from the order and may remain open or do their jobs.

It is important to read what is exempt.

These sites are updated daily, so any new orders will be posted.

What Businesses Are Covered: All the orders include businesses and workers that are exempt from the order and may remain open or do their jobs. It is important to read what is exempt. For example, Wisconsin’s order exempts “housing construction, except that optional or aesthetic construction should be avoided … .” the order in Los Angeles County defines “Essential Businesses” that are exempt from its shelter order to include:

(g) Hardware stores, nurseries; building supplies; (h) Plumber’s, electricians, … handyman services, … carpenters, ….and other service providers who provide services to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation to properties and other Essential Businesses:

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WFCA will continue to keep members informed of developments.

In the meantime, communicate your needs to us ASAP so that we can pass them along to legislators and agencies as these relief packages are negotiated.

Commonly, the orders exempt facilities and workers that are included in the guidance issue by the U.S Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). That guidance includes: Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.

While it could be argued that these exemptions apply to flooring retailers and contractors and would allow them to remain open and to continue to arrange installation, it is anticipated that these exemptions will be interpreted to allow the completion of any flooring installation and repairs that may cause a safety or health hazard. The very purpose of the exemption is to deal with emergencies and safety and health risks.

Suggested Precautions: To the extent that a flooring retailer or contractor determines that it must provide flooring to meet a safety or health risk, the following precautions should be considered: 1. Any one feeling ill or showing signs of the coronavirus should not work 2. If a customer must be met, limit the number of employees present and practice social distancing (6 feet apart) 3. Where possible, have Installers work at least 6 feet apart 4. Mask should be worn when available 5. Gloves be provided that would be discarded whenever removed (lunch, breaks, restroom visits, etc.,) if possible, but at least each day or upon completion of the job 6. Hands should be washed with soap when gloves are removed 7. At a minimum, hand sanitizer should be used if hands cannot be washed 8. Workers should shower after leaving job site 9. Workers should launder work clothes daily While not failsafe, these precautions should limit workers exposure and risk of contacting the coronavirus.

WFCA will continue to keep members informed of developments. In the meantime, communicate your needs to us ASAP so that we can pass them along to legislators and agencies as these relief packages are negotiated. Please send any suggestions to jeffw@jkingesq.com and mperkins@lobbyit.com.

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5

COVID-19

Will Your Business Survive the Pandemic?

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Lisbeth Calandrino Flooring Specialist and Associate Publisher and Director of Social Media for Fabulous Floors Magazine

s a businessperson, you are always looking for opportunities; ways you can sell more goods and make more money. That’s part of being in business and an entrepreneur. However, with the virus, there are so many restrictions that you must be cautious, or you may not be able to sell at all. If you can sell, this is not the time to appear as if you are taking advantage of anyone. The national ads have caught on quickly; lots of ads about caring for their customers. This is not the time for broadcasting discounts; consumers have bigger problems in their minds.

At the writing of this, it appears that the entire country is basically in quarantine.

Everyone is affected by what’s going on and being hit in their pocketbooks. We will get out of this but a lot of it will depend on how we view humanity in general. We must be cautious; we’ve been told we can’t be closer than six feet from another person and yet a couple of restaurants in my city were caught serving dinner and liquor.

It’s scary, and each of us must do our part if we are going to get out of this. Imagine if you don’t heed the warning to stop meeting in large groups, we run the risk of infecting other people and causing the death of another human. It appears that not everyone is taking that seriously and inadvertently maybe making someone sick.

What can you do to get through this? Here are my thoughts:

Hunker down and take financial stock of your business.

You will probably have to make some difficult decisions over the next few weeks or have already done so.

1. Hunker down and take financial stock of your business. You will probably have to make some difficult decisions over the next few weeks or have already done so.

Decide who you will have to lay off and what you can do fiscally to take care of them. The World Floor Covering Association has information from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act through their lobbyists, https://wfca. https://wfca.org/page/coronavirus-aid-relief-and-economic-security-act-what-provided-it-flooring-retailer-and as well as the Covid19 Updates, https://wfca.org/ covid19-updates. The New York Times has a F.A.Q. that answers many of the ques-

tions about the federal monies, https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-stimulus-package-questions-answers.html

2. Help your employees and yourself with feelings of uncertainty or despair.

Talkspace.com is a group of online counselors volunteering time to talk people through these difficult times. Don’t underestimate the difficulties that people are having; limited resources and loss of employment rank as two of the top stressors. https://www.talkspace.com/blog/coronavirus-talkspace-resources/

For sales and customer service training, connect with Lisbeth’s courses, Success on Fire, https://successonfire.lisbethcalandrino.com/ or sign up for her blog, https://www.lisbethcalandrino.com/blog.

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3. B e careful with your pricing. Several dealers have told me when this is over, they are going to charge top dollar for everything. They are convinced people will be desperate to buy. With unemployment reaching 30% and not buying, my hunch is that everything will be on sale!

4. C onsider teaming up with a business that can help you grow, for instance, a kitchen business. Talk with other similar flooring stores in your neighborhood, is there anything you can do together or can you share installers. Build an alliance with this same group and see if you can negotiate pricing on your merchandise.

5. S tay in front of your customers; be thankful for social media. Post daily, show your concern for them and continue to connect with your community. Volunteer, find a way to help raise money, work with our medical personnel or do anything that will help your area. Next to money, volunteering is the next best thing.

6. E veryone is hurting and uncertain; that includes your customers. The best thing you can do is show

your compassion, find ways to show your humility and concern. Show your appreciation for those that are risking their lives to work any way you canmaybe an extra tip or a thank you.

7. People in the service industry are likely to be the ones feeling the most hurt during this time. Anytime you can go out of your way to thank them; I’m sure it will be appreciated. If you watch the national advertisements, most are speaking directly to the customers and showing concern and empathy. I’ve heard comments about who may be struggling. Start thinking about what you can do to help. Personally, I don’t think it’s about sending discount tickets to your customers.

8. Don’t waste this precious time you have been given.

Develop a schedule as if you were going to work, get dressed, exercise and get enough sleep.

9. Get smarter. Learn about technology, take a class.

When this is over, things will be different, and you will need new skills. Remember everything changes, if it doesn’t it dies. ❚

Don’t let your business be one of the casualties.

The official magazine of the World Floor Covering Association

Premier FLOORING RETAILER A Special “Thank You” to all the manufacturers and their marketing departments who provided outstanding editorial to make this publication a success.

Publishing Staff Margo Rodgers Locust, Publisher Karen George, Managing Editor Lisbeth Calandrino, Associate Editor Stan Michelson, Communications Director Barry Briskman, Senior Copy Editor Toelke Associates/Ron Toelke, Creative Director

Editorial and Advertising Offices: Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC Phone: 678-761-5002 Email: Margo@pfrmag.net Contributing Writers Michael Bennett, Lewis Davis, Karen George, Frederik Langston, Margo Locust, Jason Spangler, James Wisdom

Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and timeliness of information, Premier Flooring Retailer Magazine cannot be held responsible for discrepancies, typographical errors, discontinuance of product nor color reproduction.

WFCA Scott Humphrey, Chief Executive Officer Freida Staten, V ice President Marketing + Communications Steve Abernathy, Chief Financial Officer Kay Wiley, Executive Assistant to the CEO

All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any way without written consent from Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC or the WFCA.

Contributing Columnists Lisbeth Calandrino, Tom Jennings, Jeffrey King, Stacy Eickhoff

Premier Flooring Retailer is published quarterly in print and digital

by Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC located at 741 Main Street, Andrews, NC 28901 and the World Floor Covering Association located at 855 Abutment Road, Suite 1, Dalton, GA 30721.

The World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) Phone: 855-330-1183 Email: wfca@wfca.org Premier Flooring Retailer is a joint initiative of the World Floor Covering Association and Fabulous Floors Magazine, LLC. Copyright© FABULOUS FLOORS MAGAZINE and WFCA 2020.

Change of Address: in order to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of Premier Flooring Retailer, notice of change should be made at least 5 weeks in advance.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to WFCA, 855 Abutment Road, Suite 1, Dalton, GA 30721.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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LEGAL MATTERS

How Often Do You Check Your Bank Statement? It Should Be Every Day

Y

ou or your company’s bookkeeper review your business’s bank statements every month. This month you noticed some unusual activity. There are wire transfers listed a week earlier that you do not recognize. You call the bank, only to be told that it is too late to have the bank reverse the transfers. The bank explains that you had to report the unauthorized transfer within 24 hours. Is the bank correct? Is there anything you can do to avoid the loss? And what can you do in the future to avoid such theft? The answer to each question, as explained below, is yes, the bank is correct.

However, there may be something you can do to minimize the loss, and there are steps you can take to avoid such fraud in the future.

Jeffrey W. King Legal Counsel for the WFCA Jeffrey King has more than 35 years’ experience in complex litigation with a focus on contracts, employment, construction, antitrust, intellectual property and health care.

He serves as legal counsel for WFCA and other trade associations, and is a LEED Accredited Professional. For more information, contact him at (561) 278-0035 or jeffw@jkingesq.com.

ACH Fraud There are many types of fraud that affect businesses. One of the biggest concerns is Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) fraud. ACH is a system that enables the exchange of funds between businesses and individuals by using checks, wire transfers, and direct deposits. Criminals need only two pieces of information to commit ACH fraud: Your business checking account number and your bank routing number. This means that anyone who has a check from your business may have all the information needed to steal money from your account through an ACH transfer, either by phone or online. Criminals are increasingly targeting small and mid-sized companies, because they often have less-sophisticated security systems than larger companies.

Many business owners assume the same rules of personal banking apply to commercial business accounts, but this is not the case. The law protecting electronic transfers apply only to personal bank accounts, not business accounts. For a personal account, the individual may have up to 60 days to report any fraud. In contrast, a commercial business has much less time to report cases of fraud. Many commercial claims must be reported within 24 hours. The burden is on the business owner to notify the bank immediately if there is a disputed transaction.

Many business owners assume the same rules of personal banking apply to commercial business accounts, but this is not the case.

The law protecting electronic transfers apply only to personal bank accounts, not business accounts.

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There are many types of fraud that affect businesses.

One of the biggest concerns is Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) fraud.

Steps to Safeguard Your Business Bank Accounts.

Fortunately, there are precautions that a flooring retailer or contractor can take to guard against ACH fraud.

■Y ou need to be aware of unauthorized transactions in banking accounts. Given that your business has only one day to report possible ACH fraudulent activity, you should consider using online banking, and check your bank statements every day.

■ I t is not uncommon for the fraud to be committed by an employee who has access or authority over the business’s bank accounts. You do not want to be a victim of internal fraud by allowing the individual who is checking the accounts to also be able to hide their own fraud. Accordingly, it is recommended that the person reviewing the bank statements does not have authority to sign checks or transfer money ■ I f you find any improper or suspicious activity, immediately report it to your bank.

■Y ou also need to know your bank’s policy for reporting fraud. The bank may require a written notice with specific information. Also check the actual amount of time you have to report suspicious activity on your accounts. Set up the reporting system ahead of time to avoid any delay in reporting the suspicious activity, and thereby miss the reporting deadline.

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■ Consider minimizing the use of checks in dealing with your business. Think about using credit cards, which typically have better protection in the event of a theft, for your business expenses.

■ Review your general liability insurance policy and discuss adding coverage for loss due to bank fraud with your insurance broker.

Educate your staff of the potential ACH fraud and establish steps to prevent it.

For example, there are “low tech” tools such as shredding financial data, and more sophisticated Internet and email safe practices.

■ Educate your staff of the potential ACH fraud and establish steps to prevent it.

For example, there are “low tech” tools such as shredding financial data, and more sophisticated Internet and email safe practices. It is important that your business take steps to minimize the risk of being a victim of fraud. You cannot rely just on your bank’s antifraud measures.

■ Report any theft to your insurance broker. Most policies have deadlines for reporting a claim. You may also want to contact legal counsel who can advise on what steps you need to take to protect your business and possibly recover the stolen funds.

■ Report the fraud to appropriate law enforcement agencies. This may be a required step for the bank to recover the money, and for the insurance company to cover your losses.

■ Consider contacting the company that received the fraudulent funds if you know to whom the funds were sent. This puts them on notice that the funds are stolen and may allow you to recover some if not all of the money stolen from your business’s account.

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You should also check your bank’s antifraud measures to ensure they provide the protection you need. The law requires a bank to use a “commercially reasonable” security measures to protect against fraud. This does not require a foolproof system, or even the best system available. Rather, the procedures must be reasonable based upon the circumstances of the bank and its customer. The number of transactions, the amounts typically transferred, and the prevailing good banking practice, will all be considered. Fewer transactions with lower dollar amounts will not require as much expensive measures. This puts small businesses at greater risk.

You can establish some procedures with your bank to reduce the risk of ACH fraud. Your business should consider requesting that the bank institute the following security measures if practical: ■A n ACH Block: One of the simplest ways to help prevent ACH fraud is to place an ACH block on your accounts. This block will automatically hold transactions until you have reviewed and approved the transaction. Such a block effectively eliminates the possibility of automatic, or non-reviewed transactions. An ACH block works only if you have a limited number of ACH transactions.

■A uthorized-User: If your business has ACH transactions that occur on a regular basis, you can provide the bank with a list of authorized-users. You can also specify dollar limits, and the number of ACH transaction per week or month. If a request is received from a company not on the list or seeks money over the limit or more frequently than usual, the transaction will be placed on hold for you to review.

You should also check your bank’s antifraud measures to ensure they provide the protection you need. The law requires a bank to use a “commercially reasonable” security measures to protect against fraud. This does not require a foolproof system, or even the best system available.

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What to Do in Case of ACH Fraud.

If you find your business a victim of ACH fraud, your first step is to contact the bank and report the fraud. Your business should also work with the bank to recover the stolen funds. The bank must institute commercially reasonable antifraud procedures and any of the procedures the bank agreed to implement, like an ACH block. If the bank failed to implement or follow the agreed antifraud procedures, they may be responsible for the entire amount stolen from your business account.

You may have an argument that the bank’s procedures were inadequate. For example, a construction company had $588,851 of fraudulent ACH transfers taken from its account that it ultimately was able to recover. Patco Construction Co. v.

People’s United Bank, 684 F.3d 197 (1st Cir. 2012). Initially, the construction company with its bank’s help was able to recover $243,406 of the stolen funds, leaving a net loss of $345,444. The company sued the bank to recover that loss. The crucial issue on appeal was whether the bank’s security system was commercially reasonable.

The court found several flaws in the way the bank implemented its security system.

Although the court also found the construction company did not implement its own adequate security measures, the bank ultimately agreed to pay the full $345,444 plus interest. Accordingly, if you find yourself a victim of ACH fraud, work with you bank to try and recover the money, and to ensure each party pays its fair share of any loss.

If you find your business a victim of ACH fraud, your Conclusion first step is to The bottom line is that every business should check its account every day to ensure contact the bank and report that there is not suspicious activity. The other suggested measures will provide significant safeguard, but a daily check of your business still provides one of the best the fraud. Your ways to avoid being a victim of ACH fraud. It is also recommended that you consult business should with competent legal counsel and accountants to ensure that your business is taking all appropriate steps to protect itself from fraud. ❚ also work with the bank to Notice: The information contained in this article is abridged from legislation, court recover the decisions, and administrative rulings and should not be construed as legal advice or stolen funds. opinion and is not a substitute for the advice of counsel.

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COVID-19

Tarkett Streamlines Sales Support for FEMA and Emergency Response Message to emergency response organizations: We’re here for you

T A dedicated concierge line has been established to quickly facilitate orders and continually evaluate its manufacturing operations to meet the needs of healthcare and government contractors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

arkett has mobilized to streamline the process for FEMA contractors and other emergency response organizations to procure essential flooring products for use in healthcare and government facilities. A dedicated concierge line has been established to quickly facilitate orders and continually evaluate its manufacturing operations to meet the needs of healthcare and government contractors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through Tarkett’s internal responses to this health crisis, they can safely provide flooring solutions that are well suited to address needs such as infection control and rapid occupancy.

“The pandemic has impacted the construction industry in profound ways. We want our contracting and installation partners to know that we’re here for you,” said Rich Padgett, account executive for government sales for Tarkett North America. “As you work to keep our communities safe and our healthcare and government facilities responsive to changing needs, we’ll be here to provide solutions on your timeline.”

The following adjustments to normal operations have made Tarkett equipped to support FEMA’s COVID-19 approach of preservation, allocation, acceleration, and expansion: ■ Preservation: Continually monitoring inventories of resilient and soft surface products, prioritizing those inventories for the immediate need ■ Allocation: Allocating those inventories once immediate needs are determined ■ Acceleration: Directing manufacturing resources to produce those products where inventories are being depleted ■ Expansion: Increasing manufacturing capabilities to meet the increased demand as this pandemic continues its aggressive path

To discuss your healthcare and government flooring needs in response to the pandemic, please contact Rich Padgett at (757) 810-8893 or Richard.Padgett@tarkett.com.

Also, Tarkett’s dedicated concierge hotline for FEMA contractors and other emergency response organizations can be reached at (440) 903-4698.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

17

IT’S YOUR UP

It’s What He Costs You that Counts

W

Tom Jennings Retail Training Expert Tom Jennings is a lifelong member of the flooring business. Since selling his family’s retail business in 2006, he has served the industry as an educator and speaker. He is a past board chairman of the WFCA and is currently the board chairman of WFCA Services, Inc. He may be reached at tomg.jennings@gmail.com

hile the flooring business has certainly been more robust the past few years, it still seems that no flooring business seems to be flush with money today. Competition is fierce, and margins are squeezed. As with every budget in the business world, the need to watch expenses is very real. I get it! It’s just that there are some areas of your business which may be poor places to attempt to save money. In fact, in order to actually grow your clientele, you may want to consider just the opposite.

What I don’t get is why so many flooring retailers that I encounter seem to think that installation can often be identified as an area of cost containment or reduction.

Not only is service the only element of a sale that really differentiates us from our competition, it is most often where both profitability and customer are either maximized, or jeopardized. Too many retailers maintain that it is product that differentiates them from the competition in the customer’s eyes. I could not disagree more.

To illustrate, allow me to make a comparison to the restaurant business. Every morning a food supplier makes the round to the various restaurants in a trade area.

Whether it’s a carton of eggs or a sack of flour, essentially the same ingredients are available to all establishments.

What we all realize is that while the deliveries into the kitchen are very similar, the deliveries from the kitchen to the customer’s table vary greatly. The ultimate success of the restaurant relies heavily upon both the chef’s abilities and the recipes used. A great chef using inspired recipes will create a wait for a table at which to be seated.

However, a mediocre cook using bland recipes will eventually create a “for rent” sign in the front window. Similar ingredients can produce very different results!

Isn’t this scenario in many ways very similar to our own? Our “food service” trucks carry names such as Shaw and Mohawk on their sides. They essentially deliver the same ingredients to the dock of all flooring stores. It is only the efforts of those who can craft a beautiful bathroom from boxes of tile, for example, that differentiate a great place from which to buy flooring from a mediocre one.

For illustration, let’s say that an entrée had a price of fifteen dollars. Ask yourself, if a restaurant added one dollar to the price of every item on its menu, then consistently delivered a great meal using more skilled cooks, what do you think that the net results in their amount of business would be?

Now, now ask the same question, but reduce the prices by one dollar and use a less skilled kitchen staff. Do you really think that they would prosper by being a little cheaper at the expense of delivering a better meal? I sure don’t!

The only difference between these industries that I see, is that as a whole chefs have successfully placed a high value on their trade. There are ample schools for them

18 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

What I don’t get is why so many flooring retailers that I encounter seem to think that installation can often be identified as an area of cost containment or reduction. Not only is service the only element of a sale that really differentiates us from our competition, it is most often where both profitability and customer are either maximized, or jeopardized. to be trained at. There is even a TV channel dedicated to their abilities playing 24/7. Good restaurants brag about their staff’s abilities. What are your customers hearing about your staff?

At the restaurant, you judge the meal presented on the plate, not the ingredients themselves.

Just as not everyone wishes to eat from the dollar menu; neither do all flooring customers want a flooring installation bargain. The one dollar illustration above represents a six percent price change.

Have you ever gladly paid six percent more for something that you really wanted? We all have. What could a six percent change do for your business?

My experience is that many customers will gladly pay a bit more to have a superior service experience. This is really nothing new. Nearly a century ago Will Rogers stated that, “It’s not what you pay a man, but what he costs you that counts.” It’s still great wisdom today. Don’t let lower installation rates for questionable workmanship mislead you. Their real cost may prove to be quite high. ❚

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

19

WFCA HALL OF FAME

Piet Dossche Inducted into WFCA Hall of Fame

T

The WFCA also officially welcomed the 50th inductee to its Hall of Fame at TISE 2020.

With a crowd filled with peers, friends, associates and family members, Piet Dossche, CEO and founder of USFloors, was inducted into the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) Hall of Fame.

he WFCA also officially welcomed the 50th inductee to its Hall of Fame at TISE 2020. With a crowd filled with peers, friends, associates and family members, Piet Dossche, CEO and founder of USFloors, was inducted into the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) Hall of Fame. Pami Bhullar, Director of Retail Development for Invista, North America, submitted Dossche for consideration, and addressed the attendees, “There are some folks who make a difference in this industry, and then there are some folks who take it to the next level—the innovators and transformational geniuses who really understand the sixth sense of focus. That is who our friend Piet is,” said Bhullar.

“This recognition is not just about me; I didn’t do this all by myself,” he said.

“There are a lot of people who helped me get to where we are today. This is as much recognition for all the people who have supported, guided and believed in me all the way.” In his final impassioned remarks, Dossche urged the audience to work hard to value innovation and quality in manufacturing and to not sacrifice margins for a healthy and sustainable business future for the industry.

Scott Humphrey, President & CEO of the World Floor Covering Association commented, “The Hall of Fame is always an incredibly touching and moving event.

Hearing the stories of leaders who laid the foundation for our industry’s success is a wonderful chance to show our gratitude for their achievements. In recent years, no one has had a greater impact on the flooring industry than our guest of honor, Piet Dossche.” ❚

Scott Humphrey, Piet Dossche, and Pami Bhullar, Director of Retail Development for Invista, North America.

20 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

“ There are some folks who make a difference in this industry, and then there are some folks who take it to the next level—the innovators and transformational geniuses who really understand the sixth sense of focus. That is who our friend Piet is,” said Bhullar.

Piet Dossche and Scott Humphrey

Hall of Fame Award

Left to right: William Dossche; Alice Dossche; Piet; Sabine;Julian Dossche; Lawrence Dossche; Rachel Dossche.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

21

What the best dressed brands will be wearing:

22 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

INTRODUCING THE NEW BADGE FOR SMART, DURABLE AND RESPONSIBLY MADE RIGID CORE FLOORING The fastest growing flooring category is now becoming the most rigorously tested and quality assured. Introducing the ASSURE CERTIFIED™ program–specifically created for rigid core LVT. Applicable to all WPC and SPC constructions, ASSURE CERTIFIED™ upholds manufacturing standards and tests for indoor air quality, performance, heavy metals and ortho-phthalates. From now on, rigid core quality will be easy to see. Just look for the ASSURE CERTIFIED™ badge. To learn more, visit RFCI.com/AssureCertified.

Manufacturers, contact SCS Global directly to start your certification process.

Certified by

Developed by

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

23

FLOOR ED

RFCI Introduces Industry-Wide Standards for Rigid Core LVT Quality: ASSURE CERTIFIED™

T Rigid Core LVT is the fastest growing resilient flooring category. It has evolved quickly from an innovative “multilayer” resilient concept . . . to a very popular, resilient waterproof flooring solution offered by many brands.

he Resilient Floor Covering Institute and SCS Global Services announced a new program to ensure the continued growth and popularity of Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

marketed and sold in North America. The program is called ASSURE CERTIFIED™.

“As part of our mission to support the interest of resilient flooring, RFCI and member manufacturers determined there was an urgent need to establish industry-wide standards for Rigid Core LVT quality, no matter where it’s made,” explained Dean Thompson, president and CEO of RFCI. Rigid Core LVT is the fastest growing resilient flooring category. It has evolved quickly from an innovative “multilayer” resilient concept — first as expanded polymer core (also called WPC), and quickly adding solid polymer core (SPC) — to a very popular, resilient waterproof flooring solution offered by many brands. ASSURE CERTIFIED™ flooring will be positioned as “Smart. Durable. Responsible.”

SCS Global Services (SCS), an international leader in third-party certification and standards development, will provide certification services and direct the testing protocol.

This includes an assessment of the manufacturing quality control procedure for material suppliers, product traceability, chain of custody, internal QC testing and segregation of non-conforming products and materials. It also includes an on-site manufacturing facility audit, as well as performance testing in compliance with the rigid core ASTM standard, testing for heavy metals and ortho-phthalates content, and FloorScore® testing for indoor air quality. (FloorScore®, another RFCI program managed by SCS Global Services, is the industry’s most widely recognized indoor air quality (IAQ) certification standard for hard surface flooring materials, adhesives, and underlayments.)

“The standards for the ASSURE CERTIFIED™ program will be the best protection and quality assurance for all Rigid Core manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, retailers and, of course, consumers and end users,” said Thompson.

“Flooring customers are very informed and engaged in choosing safe, high performance flooring for their homes, offices, and other indoor uses,” said Nicole Muñoz, vice president of Environmental Certification Services at SCS. “ASSURE CERTIFIED™ is a timely label for this rapidly developing flooring category.”

Information about ASSURE CERTIFIED™ is available on the RFCI.com site and the SCSGlobalServices.com site. Rigid Core manufacturers can contact SCS Global Services directly to start their certification process now.

24 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

5

COVID-19

Battling COVID-19: Tips for Your Website

To Our Valued Customers,

H

ope all’s well and that you, your co-workers, and your family are safe and healthy! We wanted to share some examples of steps other FloorForce dealers are taking to support their communities and drive traffic to their businesses during this challenging time.

1. I nstalling a “COVID-19 Update” homepage pop-up banner.

■ This is an easy way to keep your customers updated with the steps you’re taking to minimize risk.

■ It puts current and potential customers at ease and helps you get in front of any questions.

■ Check out some examples of these banners here: https://www.carpeteria.com/ https://www.jpflooring.com/

2. I f you offer Shop from Home, add a “Shop from Home” banner to direct traffic towards your product catalog.

■ This is a great way to keep customers engaged with your brand and products, and will also give them clear direction on how they can work with you from their home.

■ Check out an example here.

3. Enabling call forwarding.

■ Even in the middle of all this craziness, people still need flooring. Set up call forwarding so that you don’t miss a single lead, even if your storefront is temporarily shuttered.

■ We can set this up for you if you’d like—no need to call the phone company or anything.

We know this is a lot of info, but given how challenging these recent days have been, we wanted to make sure you have everything you need to continue to thrive.The FloorForce team can take care of any or all of this for you—putting in banners, setting up call forwarding, providing you with letter templates, you name it. Simply click here https://bit.ly/2ybFpn to let us know what updates you would like to make to your website, and we’ll make it happen. And most importantly, I hope you and yours continue to stay safe and healthy!

All the best, The FloorForce team

https://www.marchiotileandcarpet.com/

We know this is a lot of info, but given how challenging these recent days have been, we wanted to make sure you have everything you need to continue to thrive. The FloorForce team can take care of any or all of this for you—putting in banners, setting up call forwarding, providing you with letter templates, you name it.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

25

TAKING THE LEAD

Do you Suffer from SAOD?

D

Lewis Davis Senior Director of Technology and Research

o you suffer from Severe Acronym Overload Disorder or SAOD? I know I do on some days. If you read through any of the trade magazines you may have been affected at one time. Thank goodness, we have Google to help identify what each acronym means. fcB2B has a long list of numbers and acronyms that mean something. If you listen to members at our meetings talk, you might think they are part of a secret government agency. “I sent an 850 to you but you didn’t send me an 855 or an 856. What about the 997?” All of these numbers indicate a different electronic document. Let’s look at the acronyms and numbers used within the fcB2B language so we can eliminate a little of your SAOD.

Let’s start at the beginning and work our way through the fcB2B alphabet. fcB2B — This stands for Floor Covering Business to Business and is the group that manages the standards and helps suppliers become fcB2B compliant.

fcB2B has a long list of numbers and acronyms that mean something. If you listen to members at our meetings talk, you might think they are part of a secret government agency.

WS — Web service is a connection to a supplier’s computer that allows a software package to ask a question and get an answer in near real-time. The web services that fcB2B have defined are Stock Check, Order Status, and Price Check. New services in process or being reviewed include Reservation and fcB2B setup request and response. The Reservation Service will allow the reservation of a product in the supplier’s system electronically. The fcB2B setup request and response would standardize the process for a company new to fcB2B to request setup with their supplier.

FTP or SFTP — File Transfer Protocol or Secure File Transfer Protocol is the communication method used by fcB2B to send and receive documents between the retailer and supplier. This is a direct connection and eliminates any third-party charges for managing the connections.

EDI — Electronic Data Interchange is the computer to computer exchange of business documents in a standard format.

X12 — Is chartered by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for more than 40 years. It develops and maintains EDI standards to drive business processes globally. fcB2B uses the X12 EDI standard to define the Price Catalog, PO/PO Acknowledgment, Advanced Ship Notice and Invoice.

26 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

fcB2B — This stands for Floor Covering Business to Business and is the group that manages the standards and helps suppliers become fcB2B compliant.

832 — This is the X12 number for the Product Catalog. This is the electronic document sent by suppliers with product and price information used to load and maintain flooring software.

850 — Electronic Purchase Order generated by flooring software and processed by suppliers. This provides suppliers with the information required to generate an order.

855 — Electronic PO confirmation sent by the supplier after receiving an 850. This is a confirmation that the order was processed and contains values indicating either success or failure when processing the PO. 856 — Advance Ship Notice or ASN. Think of this as a detailed electronic bill of lading from the supplier. This contains the quantity, product, PO number, ship to and from, and other information needed to receive in the shipment.

810 — The electronic invoice is the final document in the fcB2B bag. This allows the retailer to receive a copy of the invoice and the flooring software to match what was ordered, received and invoiced. This completes the 3-way match and ensures the retailer isn’t missing any product and wasn’t billed incorrectly.

997 — This is a functional acknowledgment which is automatically generated and returned for every document sent. This ensures that when sending an X12 document, the receiving party receives it and it wasn’t lost in space. The document can convey the status of the received document and any errors found in the original document. ❚

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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5

COVID-19

FAQs for COVID-19 Insurance Coverage

This FAQ is not a substitute for consulting your broker or the Risk Strategies team of experts and, if applicable, your insurance carrier.

T

he outbreak of COVID-19 has changed the world as

■ If you have workers currently out of work due to occu-

we know it. Our very lives may depend on the actions

pational injuries, it is important to bear in mind that their

we take now. Those actions have far reaching implications

ability to obtain elective surgeries and rehab treatments

for our family, our employees and our customers. Most con-

may be limited. In the short term, we expect to see some

cerning is how this evolving situation impacts our business

increase in cost on such claims as well as an increased

and future livelihood. The RSC team of experts have put

period of time before employers are able to bring workers

together the following FAQ to provide additional guidance

back on light duty.

specific to Insurance and Risk Management. We are here to assist and wish you all remain safe and healthy.

Will workers who contract COVID-19 be able to file for Workers Compensation?

What is OSHA requiring from employers when employees contract the virus?

■ COVID-19 can be a recordable illness if a worker is infected as a result of performing their work-related

■ Under certain circumstances, depending on the state

duties. However, employers are only responsible for

and the insurer, claims from healthcare providers and first

recording cases of COVID-19 if all of the following condi-

responders involving COVID-19 may be allowed. Claims

tions are met:

from others who meet certain criteria for exposure to COVID-19 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

1. The case is a confirmed case of COVID-19 (see CDC information on persons under investigation and presumptive positive and laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19).

■ In most cases, however, unless the individual is in a high-

2. The case is work-related, as defined by 29 CFR 1904.5

risk job (such as healthcare providers), exposure and/

3. The case involves one or more of the general recording

or contraction of COVID-19 is not considered to be an

criteria set forth in 29 CFR 1904.7 (e.g. medical treatment

allowable, work-related condition. However, some states

beyond first-aid, days away from work).

are looking to adapt to this evolving situation, and it is possible some will take measures to expand the scope of work-related conditions.

■ We recommend that employers file all potential workers

Will your property policy cover a Government Mandated Shutdown of my facility for lost revenue under the Business Interruption form?

compensation claims related to COVID-19 to open all

This depends on many factors. Certain things should be

potential paths to healthcare to their employees via their

considered to assess each specific situation.

applicable benefits programs, including workers compensation coverage. Many states have enhanced accessibility to unemployment benefits as well.

■ Always refer back to actual policy terms. Many policies have a virus and bacteria endorsement that excludes losses caused by or contributed to by a virus like COVID-19.

28 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

The RSC team of experts have put together the following FAQ to provide additional guidance specific to Insurance and Risk Management.

We are here to assist and wish you all remain safe and healthy.

■ In general, Business Income (aka Business Interruption) coverage on a property policy is typically triggered in the event of a Covered Cause of Loss (such as a fire) at/on an

Should you file a Property/Business Interruption claim despite the potential lack of coverage?

Insured Property that results in physical loss or damage.

■ We recommend that all potential claims be reported to ■ Within Business Income cover, The Civil Authority exten-

the applicable carrier, as the circumstances of each claim

sion could apply if the insured can prove that an order of

may be different and will likely be considered separately.

civil authority to shut the insured’s location was directly

All coverage determinations under the applicable policy

due to a Covered Cause of Loss at or near the insured’s

will ultimately be made by the insurance carrier(s).

location (depending upon distance requirements).

■ Please also note that COVID-19 has the attention of ■ At this time, COVID-19 is still being assessed on a case

insurance regulators across the country and it remains

by case basis, but many insurers have stated publicly

possible that some form of guidance, regulation or leg-

that COVID-19 will not be considered a Covered Cause

islation will be issued by various state or federal authori-

of Loss. Accordingly, for companies with standard ISO

ties, which could impact the manner in which insurance

Property policy forms, Business Income and Civil Author-

carriers might respond to a COVID-19 related claim.

ity coverage would probably not apply.

business interruption due to COVID-19 could be consid-

What are the “Property Claim Chain” and “Business Interruption Chain” and how can you use it to understand how/if my claim is covered?

ered a physical loss or damage, but many insurers have

A “claim chain” is a process of analyzing a “typical” situation

already stated that there must be an actual, NOT sus-

that can lead to a favorable determination of coverage:

■ Will business interruption due to COVID-19 be considered a physical loss or damage? It is possible that

pected, disease present at that insured location for BI coverage to be triggered.

Property Claim Chain — At a minimum, for property damage coverage to apply there must be:

■ In the event a business is shut down by an executive

1. Physical loss or damage

order (civil authority) prior to the discovery of COVID-19

2. To property not otherwise excluded

at the insured location and the virus is discovered after

3. By a peril not otherwise excluded

the shutdown date, carriers may take the position that the shutdown was not due to COVID-19 and disclaim

If the above chain is not broken, coverage is triggered

coverage.

subject to additional policy terms like deductibles, limits, and coinsurance for example.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

29

Business Interruption Claim Chain — At a minimum, for Business Interruption to apply there must be: 1. Physical loss or damage

4. Reason for closure (Example: Mayor issued a citywide mandate closing all restaurants effective 3/16/2020)

2. To property not otherwise excluded

5. Location (s) if known

3. By a peril not otherwise excluded

6. Claim Description (Here’s an example: Due to the

4. Which causes an interruption in business operations

government ordered shutdown, the insured had to cancel performances starting on 3/13/20 and performances will remain cancelled until the order is lifted.)

If the above chain is not broken, then coverage is triggered subject to additional policy terms as noted above for the defined period of indemnity.

What happens if you are sued by an employee or a third party for contracting COVID-19 on your premises?

The Business Interruption chain rule applies to Contingent

A general liability policy responds to allegations of negli-

Business Interruption as well. However, the physical loss or

gence which lead to Bodily Injury or Property Damage. The

damage needs to occur at a supplier, customer or other key

definition of Bodily Injury typically includes “Disease” as a

business partner’s property to trigger coverage.

covered item. However, many policies now include a broad exclusion for virus as a response to the SARS outbreak.

Contingent Business Interruption Claim Chain —

Please check with your agent/broker if you do not know if

At a minimum, for Contingent Business Interruption

your policy includes the virus exclusion. In all cases, it will

to apply there must be:

be up to the plaintiff in any such litigation to prove that you acted negligently in allowing the alleged infection to spread

1. Physical loss or damage 2. To a supplier’s, customer’s, or other key business partner’s property (which can be specific or blanket)

to the third party.

As always, the insurer will ultimately determine whether coverage applies.

3. To property not otherwise excluded 5. Which causes an interruption in business operations

What steps should you take to protect yourself from potential liability in connection with COVID-19?

If the above chain is not broken, then coverage is trig-

We advise all of our clients to take the following steps when-

gered subject to additional policy terms as noted above

ever and where ever possible:

4. By a peril not otherwise excluded

for the defined period of indemnity.

1. Clean their premises as frequently as possible,

What information should you provide to your broker/agent/insurer in order to file a claim?

If you want to file a claim, we suggest you provide the following to your broker/agent/insurer (assuming a specific claim form is not already in use):

documenting the steps taken.

2. Track all visitors and staff that come onto your premises. Consider limiting vendor and/or 3rd party access to your sites.

3. If an employee tests positive for COVID-19, make sure you do not disclose the name of the applicable employee to other parties, as such information is

1. Client Name (as it appears on your policy)

protected under HIPPA (and other) laws, unless dis-

2. Policy Number / Insurer

closure is otherwise required by law (i.e. disclosure

3. Date business operation ceased

to the CDC).

30 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

4. Where applicable, ensure the proper Personal Pro-

2. Stress to all employees, if they feel sick or have any

tection Equipment (PPE) is available and in use in

symptoms of COVID-19 such as coughing, sneez-

line with CDC and OSHA guidance, which will likely

ing, sore throat or temperature they should stay

change frequently. Depending on the situation, there

home and should not return to work until all symp-

may be a need to make available /use items such as

toms have subsided.

gloves, protective eyewear and respirators/masks.

5. E stablish guidelines for those on or entering your

3. Require that employees disclose whether they have been around anyone infected with COVID-19 and,

premises to maintain the required minimum 6 feet

if so, do not permit the employee to come to work

clearance.

until they have been free from exposure for at least

6. W ith regard to your independent contractors and employees, be sure to encourage/require that if they

14 consecutive days.

4. Encourage your employees to follow the CDC

show any symptoms of COVID-19 that they stay

Guidelines found here regarding

home.

protecting yourself from infection: https : //www.cdc.gov/coronavirus /2019-ncov/prepare /

If you are designated as an “Essential Business” and will remain operational, are there any concerns?

prevention.html including, specifically:

If you are designated as an “Essential Business” and your

A. Washing hands frequently

employees and independent contractors are accordingly

B. Avoiding close contact

required to continue working during these uncertain times,

C. Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched

they may have concerns. If any employee has a concern about possible infection at work, we encourage you to consider the suggested steps outlined above as well as to:

surfaces daily D. Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing E. N ot sharing supplies including gloves, tools, etc. ❚

1. Require all food brought in by employees to be sealed.

. . . many policies now include a broad exclusion for virus as a response to the SARS outbreak. Please check with your agent/broker if you do not know if your policy includes the virus exclusion. In all cases, it will be up to the plaintiff in any such litigation to prove that you acted negligently in allowing the alleged infection to spread to the third party.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

31

SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

Ask the Expert …

Good Advice to Stick With.

A Premier Flooring Retailer exclusive interview

W

Gary Scheidker Taylor Adhesives

hen you think of flooring, most people think of the color, design or comfort that comes with today’s popular styles. But not Gary Scheidker. Gary thinks about what’s underneath—what you can’t see. That’s his job as the director of technical services at Taylor Adhesives.

“Like all adhesive companies, we do our work ‘behind the scenes’ and make the floors you enjoy perform their best in your home or business,” observed Gary. “At Taylor, we’ve been doing that for over 40 years, so we’ve got a long history of success in that regard.”

We asked Gary some typical questions that customers, or even flooring professionals may have about flooring adhesives to get answers from an expert.

Q: What are some common “urban myths” when it comes to flooring adhesives that you’ve encountered over the years?

A: There are several, actually. Here are a few.

“Like all adhesive companies, we do our work ‘behind the scenes’ and make the floors you enjoy perform their best in your home or business. . .”

If the wood flooring adhesive isn’t in a metal bucket, it must be water-based. That’s simply not true. Moisture-cured urethane wood flooring adhesives that contain isocyanates are typically packaged in metal buckets. At Taylor, we developed isocyanate-free, moisture-cured adhesives that are packaged in plastic buckets. Plastic buckets don’t dent and are easy to reseal, keeping the unused portion of adhesive fresh and ready to go for the next job.

A flooring adhesive has to smell bad to work well. Again, not true. That harsh chemical smell people are referring to are from traditional, moisture-cured urethane formulations, and is simply not indicative of a superior flooring adhesive.

Pressure-sensitive flooring adhesives are susceptible to damage from moisture. At Taylor, that’s not true. Our Transitional Pressure Adhesive uses a proprietary cross-linking technology that changes the characteristics of the adhesive as it cures. It begins as a water-soluble adhesive, then changes to a moisture resistant permanent bond.

Q: Aren’t all flooring adhesives pretty much the same?

A: Yes and no. It’s true that all flooring adhesives are designed to hold the flooring in place.

At Taylor, we have developed products that not only bond the flooring to the substrate, but also solve common site related concerns such as high substrate moisture and sound reduction. These products bond the flooring material to the substrate, whether it’s hard wood, LVT/ LVP, VCT, linoleum, sheet vinyl, rubber, cork, bamboo or carpet. So, we’ve developed advanced flooring adhesives to solve common problems and to provide the best possible results for the installer and end-user.

32 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Q: C an you give us an example of how flooring adhesives have evolved?

A: The traditional solvent-based and asphalt adhesives (many of which contained asbestos) were eliminated in favor of environmentally friendly and less toxic alternatives.

Taylor has a long and proud history of producing environmentally friendly products beginning with our Envirotec line back in 1989. Since then, we have developed adhesives that transition from water-soluble to waterproof, while retaining environmentally friendly characteristics. Also, the patented cross-linking technology in our transitional pressure sensitive adhesives enables the installer to perform a dry-set pressure sensitive installation with the benefit of a permanent bond. And we have continued to develop environmentally conscious adhesives throughout our history especially with our Signature Line. For instance, we have also developed moisture-cured wood flooring adhesives—many of which do not contain isocyanates that can damage the finish of the wood and create long term health issues for the installer.

Q: When someone says “water resistant” regarding flooring adhesives, what is meant by that?

A: We refer to that as a moisture tolerant adhesive, which means that when the adhesive is fully cured, it will not re-emulsify or lose its bond in high-moisture environments. On the other hand, a moisture barrier adhesive will form a membrane that will block moisture coming from concrete substrates. We make both high moisture tolerant and moisture barrier adhesives.

Q: What kind of adhesives does Taylor make for flooring?

A: We make adhesives for virtually every type of flooring application that utilizes adhesive. Our Signature Line of 13 products are LEED v4 contributing that meet SCAQMD Rule 1168 and CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.2. They do not contain methylene chloride or perchloroethylene and contribute to low emitting materials. Most are certified by CRI Green Label Plus, FloorScore, Greenguard and listed on Mindful Materials.

Q: Is there a particular Taylor adhesive that you’re especially proud of?

A: I would have to say Resolute.

We developed it for the special needs of resilient flooring installation—particularly the enormously popular LVT and LVP flooring category and it’s suitable for both home and commercial installations. We engineered it to be tough and able to handle heavy rolling loads, while providing an unlimited moisture vapor barrier and withstanding punishment from topical liquids that can seep through. It solves a lot of problems.

Q: H ow can people learn more about Taylor Adhesives?

A: Ask your distributor rep or visit TaylorAdhesives.com. You can

even download for free the Taylor Adhesives Mobile App for Apple or Android devices or contact Taylor tech services department at 1-800868-4583 Ext. 2221. ❚

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

33

SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

A

Seamless Virtual Consultations Using Karndean Designflooring Digital Resources

s the result of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, using digi-

“Providing consumers the opportunity to see what our floors

tal tools with customers has become more relevant than

will look like in their own space helps RSAs to close sales

ever, as many retailers have turned to virtual consultations in order to implement social distancing safety measures.

faster by instilling confidence in the consumer.”

For homeowners who use Floorstyle at home before

For luxury vinyl tile specialist Karndean Designflooring,

consulting with a Karndean retailer, the tool allows con-

helping consumers bring their personal floor vision to life has

sumers to order samples, save to favorites and locate a

always been at the heart of the company’s mission, whether

nearby retailer to visit.

in the brick-and-mortar world or the virtual one. Not only

RSAs can work one-on-one with customers during pri-

does the company offer digital tools to aid the homeowner,

vate showroom appointments or through virtual consulta-

but there is a library of digital resources available to arm the

tions to choose from a variety of patterns, from herringbone

RSA with knowledge and to help close the sale.

to striped, and can even blend up to four different colors within one design to create a custom look.

Product Selector For retailers with commercial divisions, consult the Product Selector. This comprehensive online resource allows quick and easy access to the company’s entire product portfolio, comprised of more than 250 visuals, along with environmental and technical information.

Floorstyle

Texting Codes

Accessible via any internet-enabled device, this digital room

Within the Product Selector, retailers will notice texting

visualizer and augmented reality tool allows users to take

codes that accompany each product. By sending a simple

a photograph of their space (or choose from a selection of

text message to 877-850-0376, retailers can obtain techni-

room scenes), upload it to the tool and design their floor.

cal data and install instructions or request a sample within

“We know that the majority of residential projects are

seconds. To make the process even more instantaneous,

refurbishments,” director of marketing Jenne Ross said.

save the number to your mobile contacts and text the SKU number of the product.

Brochure Downloads RSAs or homeowners can view and/or download a variety of Karndean Designflooring consumer brochures through the Resources section of the company’s website.

For more information about these digital resources, or to request a demonstration of the Floorstyle tool, contact your Karndean Designflooring Retail Business Manager or visit Karndean.com. ❚ 34 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

differently SEE FLOORING

As an expert in your field, you have a reputation to uphold.

We know the feeling. With 45 years of experience specializing in luxury vinyl flooring, trust us when we say your reputation is safe with Karndean Designflooring underfoot.

See for yourself at www.karndean.com.

Grey Riven Slate SCB-ST16

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

35

FLOOR ED

The Concrete Slab RH Test — So Easy Your Whole Team Can (and Should) Do It

E

very year North Americans spend an eye-watering hundreds of millions of dollars on fixing moisture-related flooring failures. This may be happening in part because they

see slab RH testing as an obstacle, rather than an obvious and necessary procedural step.

There are a few reasons why RH testing is sometimes missed: ■ There’s a misperception that it’s a complex procedure with many moving parts.

■ There’s a fear of performing the test incorrectly and getting unreliable results.

■ Finally, there’s the simple fear of trying something new.

So, let’s address these stumbling blocks one by one, starting with...

Jason Spangler Wagner Meters’ Flooring Division Manager

Jason has more than 25 years’ experience in sales and sales management across a broad spectrum of industries. He has successfully launched a variety of products to the market, including the original Rapid RH® concrete moisture test.

Jason, who received an MBA from West Texas A&M University in November 2018, has extensive industry involvement, including the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), the International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI), and is Vice Chairman of Associations for The Flooring Contractors Association (FCICA). Call Wagner Meters today at (844) 533-9100 and ask for Jason, or visit www.wagnermeters.com.

Isn’t RH testing a complex procedure?

Not at all. The Rapid RH test system from Wagner Meters is easy to use. Here’s how it works. Drill a hole to the required depth, insert the probe, wait 24 hours, and then take a reading. That’s it.

The Rapid RH L6 then allows you to either document the results on paper or send your sensor readings (including ambient temperature and relative humidity (RH)) to our DataMaster app on your smart device.

The Rapid RH L6 also provides you with a way to automate the process of collecting the readings. This is especially helpful if you don’t have the time to continually take readings at regular intervals.

What if the test results I get are wrong?

They won’t be if you perform the test properly.

To make sure you perform the test correctly, get a copy of the ASTM F2170, and make sure your RH testing system complies with the standard. If you follow it, the ASTM F2170 standard will protect you against liability and finger-pointing. We also have a downloadable F2170 checklist to help you (available at www.wagnermeters.com/f2170-checklist).

The Wagner Meters Rapid RH L6 complies with ASTM F2170. If you correctly follow the instructions for fast and easy installation, your test results will be useful.

Every year North Americans spend an eye-watering hundreds of millions of dollars on fixing moisturerelated flooring failures.

36 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

R

t s e T rs e o r o l u F t

MO , R E t

Fas

te

cura c A E

Mofiosr Concrete

T

BES THE

ST E T RH GOT JUST TER BET

• Simplest F2170 Test • Improved Technology and Responsiveness Especially in High RH • Integrated Data Storage • Lowest Cost/Test

2020 WINNER

WWW.RAPIDRH.COM

(844) 533-9100 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020 U.S. Patent 7,231,815, 8,047,056, 9,032,791 & 9,588,092. Additional patents pending.

37

“But we’ve always done the calcium chloride test”

RH testing is easy, inexpensive, and can save your reputation

While the name of the test may sound scientific, no doc-

RH testing will save money for you. However, it will also save

umented science or laboratory pedigree supports the reli-

your team from red-faced finger-pointing, as well as your

ability of this test. In fact, concrete slabs certified by F1869

professional reputation. Best of all, RH testing is easy. Your

were plagued with so many moisture-related problems, that

entire team can and should be doing it.

industry professionals began to have serious doubts about the integrity of the calcium chloride test. Here’s why…

For more information on RH testing, visit rapidrh.com.

You’ll find an entire library of videos, articles, and educational

The calcium chloride test only measures the top ½-¾

content. There’s even a webinar about concrete moisture

inch of the slab. This is a problem, because the wettest

testing that will take you from zero to hero in about an hour.

part of the slab is deeper than three-quarters of an inch.

Once again, because we can’t stress it enough, RH test-

When this deep moisture eventually makes its way up to

ing is easy. Very easy. It’s a simple procedure that, if per-

the surface, it can’t evaporate if the concrete has been

formed properly, will protect your floor against expensive

covered. This can easily result in flooring failure. The cal-

moisture-related failures. ❚

cium chloride test also tends to “pull” moisture from the slab. This can lead to overestimated moisture vapor emission rates.

The ASTM F2170 is more reliable than the calcium chloride test The ASTM F2170 (in situ probe testing) has been scientifically proven to provide more accurate results about the moisture content in concrete slabs over which flooring will be placed. For more information, see Drying of Construction Water in Concrete by Göran Hedenblad and Concrete, hardened: Relative humidity measured in drilled holes which can be obtained from Nordtest.info.

Once again, because we can’t stress it enough, RH testing is easy.

Very easy. It’s a simple procedure that, if performed properly, will protect your floor against expensive moisture-related failures.

38 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

The Next GIG

Wagner Meter Rapid RH® L6 System Now Integrates with the MeasureSquare™ Takeoff Estimating Platform

K

ey Rapid RH capabilities, such as mapping of installed Rapid RH L6 Smart Sensors and configuration of automated temperature and relative humidity (RH) readings col-

lection accessories combine within the comprehensive mapping, planning, and estimating functions of the MeasureSquare platform to give the flooring professional unmatched data

“This Rapid RH integration is the perfect addition to Measure Square’s already diverse and comprehensive array of tools for the flooring professional,” said Jason Spangler, Flooring Division Manager for Wagner Meters.

access at their fingertips.

MeasureSquare’s Job Trakr app provides quick and easy access to all floor plans within a building estimated with MeasureSquare estimating software or starting from a PDF plan set directly in the app. With the new integration, users can track Rapid RH L6 concrete moisture test locations on every floor where Rapid RH L6 Smart Sensors are placed, integrating Rapid RH moisture testing into the MeasureSquare Job Trakr iOS app tracking system.

“This Rapid RH integration is the perfect addition to MeasureSquare’s already diverse and comprehensive array of tools for the flooring professional,” said Jason Spangler, Flooring Division Manager for Wagner Meters. “Now it’s easier than ever to keep track of your concrete moisture test readings along with estimating, planning, and reporting work all within a single app.”

For more information, visit www.wagnermeters.com.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

39

The Next GIG

Free Tools From Measure Square For Flooring Retailers

W

e all know a big part of our business is being able to be in front of our customers to give them an estimate and quote, and then close the deal. Currently, that has

become a bigger hurdle than normal. So Measure Square is dedicated to giving flooring retailers more tools and options to help out your retail flooring business during these strenuous times alongside our retail floor estimating apps.

Online Calculators We have a number of online calculators that can be accessed by customers to input their self-measured rooms and then can be emailed to your sales reps. They can use these for quoting purposes or input the measurements into the Measure Square software for a more accurate takeoff. These can also be embedded in your website very easily.

Learn more about these calculators: https://www.measuresquare.com/Free_Tool_Sets.shtml Click here for Online Calculators: http://www.carpetcalc.com/flooring

Augmented Reality Measure App We also have a free Augmented Reality app that uses the camera on the device to measure the perimeter of a room. The lead or customer can then email the diagram to your team and then input the dimensions into the Measure Square software to do the takeoff. Find the app by going on the Apple App Store and searching “M2 AR�.

We have a number of online calculators that can be accessed by customers to input their self-measured rooms and then can be emailed to your sales reps.

40 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Measure Square is dedicated to giving flooring retailers more tools and options to help out your retail flooring business during these strenuous times alongside our retail floor estimating apps.

Webinars Want to see a quick demo of our calculators? These are really easy tools to use but if you would like to see them demonstrated and ask a few questions, sign up below. We can also make some resources available if you would like these embedded in your website directly. ht tps : //calendly.com / measure-square-customer-service-team/free-tools-meeting Register now!

Free Software Trials and Learning Resources If you are looking to modernize your team and now have the time to evaluate field tools that can help preserve your profits and increase your close rate check out MeasureSquare Mobile on the Apple App Store. MeasureSquare has great free self learning resources on Udemy and YouTube to make the most of your free trial.

MeasureSquare Mobile

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

41

SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

Knowledge is Power: Installer and Retail Training from Metroflor

M

etroflor is committed to its customers during this time

designed this training program to make learning about our

of turmoil. With the general pause in business at retail,

products a rewarding and interactive experience. Training

the company is giving retailers and installers the tools to

participants will earn a $10 Amazon gift card by com-

become more knowledgeable about Metroflor products and

pleting just one of the two course modules: Retail Sales

installation techniques until business returns to a more nor-

Training or Installer Training.

mal environment in the coming weeks. Gary Keeble, Director of Marketing for Metroflor Corporation, says, “It’s not just

Metroflor Retail Sales Training

an opportunity to stay home and watch TV — it’s a time to

From translating features into benefits and helping custom-

engage in activities that are self-improving. In one regard,

ers choose the right floor, to residential remodeling tips, Met-

this is a curse but in another, it’s a blessing —we are spend-

roflor’s Retail Sales Training has everything RSAs need to

ing more time with family but now also have time to take

succeed — from quality products, marketing support and an

advantage of online educational resources. Sometimes you

enhanced in-store experience, to turning features into bene-

get lemons, and you just need to make lemonade.”

fits. The more you know about LVT, the more you’ll sell!

Previously a benefit only for Metroflor Aligned Dealers, Metroflor is opening its online training modules to any spe-

Metroflor Installer Training

cialty flooring retailer who wants to enhance their knowl-

Installers can hone their skills with Metroflor’s Installer Train-

edge about Metroflor’s extensive portfolio of LVT products,

ing curriculum. From installing moldings and trims to create

whether it’s selling skills or installation training. The company

the perfect finishing touch, to brand specific, step-by-step

encourages Retail Sales Associations (RSAs) to take the

installation instructions for Engage Genesis and Inception,

time to better understand the installation process in addition

Metroflor LVT, Attraxion Magnetic Attachment Technology,

to the sales skills and product knowledge. Said Keeble, “We

and Verçade Wall Fashion, they’ll find all the tools they

encourage installers to use this downtime to hone their skills

need to succeed.

for when the marketplace rebounds.”

Metroflor’s Retail Sales and Installer training courses are available online at metroflorusa.com. Click on the Dealer Link

Online Educational Network!

at the top of the page, then click the “REGISTER” link under-

METROFLOR believes knowledge is power. Its online edu-

neath the Training Center log in. Metroflor Aligned Dealers

cational network is intended to transfer knowledge about

can take advantage of the Amazon Gift Card incentive by

products, specifications, installation, usage and appli-

logging in to the Aligned Dealer Partner Portal with access

cations to those who need it most — distributors, retail

to the Retail and Installer training modules.

sales partners and installers who support the architects, engineers, contractors and customers who use the prod-

https://www.metroflorusa.com/Partner/

ucts. While intended to be educational, METROFLOR has

Metroflor’s online educational network is intended to transfer knowledge about products, specifications, installation, usage and applications to those who need it most.

42 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS With Metroflor’s Online Training Programs!

Refreshing your Metroflor product and installation knowledge has never been easier or more rewarding: 1. Visit metroflorusa.com, choose DEALER from the top navigation.

2. Log in (returning participants and Aligned Dealers) or Register if you’re a new participant.

3. Choose RETAIL SALES TRAINING or INSTALLER TRAINING, complete the full set of modules and we’ll reward you with a $10 eGift Card!

Ready, set, go — learn and earn at metroflorusa.com!

Be safe and stay healthy.

888-235-6672 | metroflorusa.com Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

43

M

etroflor LVT Attraxion™ Magnetic Attachment Technology is a high-performance, rev-

SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

olutionary flooring product designed for floating installations. Licensed from Magnetic

Building Solutions, llc (MBS), Attraxion enables the rapid installation of flooring and other building products by creating a magnetic attachment utilizing the MBS MagneBuild™ magnetic underlayment and eliminating the need for locking systems or adhesives. Attraxion is available on two Metroflor LVT collections: Déjà New, a line of traditional plank floors — and Metroforms, a wide range of pre-cut shapes that can be assembled and installed more easily and faster than any other method.

Metroflor LVT Attraxion™ Magnetic Attachment Technology is a highperformance, revolutionary flooring product designed for floating installations.

■ No need to install with locking systems or adhesives — eliminates adhesiverelated VOCs and the need for cutting patterned floors on-site with power tools and resulting dust.

■ Déjà New with Attraxion LVT installs two-times faster than gluedown LVT, enabling installers to rapidly install with resulting labor savings.

■ The speed and ease of an Attraxion installation minimizes disruption to the consumer’s home or business.

■ Ideal for Main Street commercial installations where minimizing turnaround time can be critical, avoiding time-consuming subfloor prep often required by dryback flooring, with lower labor installation costs — Time is money.

■ For trending patterned floor looks, Metroforms allows a wide range of pre-cut shapes to be installed to achieve custom looks with a fraction of the install time of traditional gluedown products.

■ If a plank or tile gets gouged or otherwise damaged, it can be easily replaced without having to hire an installer.

■ The MagneBuild underlayment can be reused when a new Attraxion floor is installed, allowing the business or homeowner to change their floor more often at a lesser cost than the initial installation.

Metroforms Chevron Pattern — ­ Clean Oak Fumed

44 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Déjà New with Attraxion — Oxidized

Selling Attraxion Magnetic Flooring for Commercial and Residential Spaces ■ Déjà New and Metroforms with Attraxion Magnetic Attachment Technology can be installed over most subfloors easily. Just prep the floor, lay down the MagneBuild magnetic underlayment, and then attach the Déjà New or Metroforms ferrite-infused product right on the underlayment.

■ Floorings installed with Attraxion can be easily removed, repaired or replaced with another ferrite-infused Déjà New or Metroforms flooring.

■ Subsequent installations only require Attraxion flooring, as the MagneBuild magnetic underlayment can be reused for multiple installations without degrading its magnetic properties.

■ Easy care and maintenance ■ The MagneBuild underlayment can be dual-purposed as a moisture barrier (by taping underlayment seams) and as a crack suppression membrane.

■ The Attraxion system helps to address the installer shortage by reducing the labor skillset and need for expensive tools. Attraxion’s speed of installation also enables installers to install more floors in a day compared to traditional gluedown methods.

■ The Sketchbox tool for Metroforms enables RSAs and end users to create custom looks with ease, available online at https://metroforms.chameleonpower.com. Using interactive tools to select from an extensive palette of shapes, patterns, colors and combinations, Sketchbox™ makes it simple to design a unique LVT floor. The platform will calculate the amount of Metroforms™ materials needed for installation based upon room size parameters entered, and will provide a virtual room photo and technical data. ❚

Déjà New with Attraxion — Greyed

Metroforms Patches Pattern — San Marcos

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

45

The Next GIG

W

Integrate and Automate to Save Time and Money: RollMaster Software Makes Doing Business Easier

hen your flooring business invests in software, you’re

Using a processing system such as ChargeItPro by Gravity,

investing not just in the growth of your business, but

which integrates with the RollMaster Core Software, deal-

in your own time! Flooring software should make business

ers get real-time, accurate payment data with no delay. This

operations easier by creating efficiencies that save your

advanced integration can save money in credit card pro-

business lots of valuable time. One of the ways RollMaster

cessing fees and save your accounting staff time. That way,

does this is by integrating all your flooring software needs

your team can focus on more important tasks, while also

into one place. RollMaster’s integrations use a unique API,

improving your bottom line.

to seamlessly connect with the operational tools that flooring businesses rely upon, such as accounting and estimat-

Upgrade Your Warehouse

ing software, and marketing platforms. These integrations

Effective inventory management is a pain point for many floor-

benefit every level of your business, from simplifying ware-

ing businesses. Inventory takes time and energy, and if every-

house tasks to making big business decisions much easier.

one isn’t on the same page, it can cause backups when trying to look for products down the line. Using pen and paper, or

Eliminate Double Entry

even old, out of date barcode guns, adds to this time delay not

Using flooring software that integrates with the programs you

only in day-to-day warehouse tasks, but in training too!

already use eliminates multiple repetitive entries of the same

Upgrading your barcoding system with easy-to-use

data. This is so important because it not only saves time for

smartphones, like RollMaster’s Android mobile device inte-

your employees, it also ensures that information is accurate

gration can reduce physical inventory management by up to

across the board. Data entry errors caused by duplicate entry

half the time!

can become a thing of the past!

Most people are already very familiar with smartphones,

When relying upon a credit card processing system that

since they use them every day. This makes teaching staff

doesn’t integrate with your core business software, floor-

to use the new Android barcode devices much easier. “The

ing dealers often experience costly issues like missing data,

Android device is incredibly easy to set up, train, and use.

duplicate entries, and discrepancies in payment amounts.

Rollmaster continued on page 55

One of the ways RollMaster does this is by integrating all your flooring software needs into one place.

46 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Flooring Software That Makes Doing Business Easier

Estimating

20

% o

initial sign-up fees when you mention this ad

Marketing

Analytics

Accounting

Inventory

RollMaster’s industry leading cloud-based software automates every process within your busy flooring operation, saving you time and money.

Get in touch for a FREE DEMO

Flooring Retailer | Q2 Q1 2020 2019 47 info@rmaster.com | 866.822.4904Premier | www.rmaster.com

Surface Prep: A World Full of Challenges The International Certified Flooring Installers Association recently published a comprehensive subfloor preparation series for ceramic tile, hardwood and resilient floor coverings titled the CFI Surface Prep Resource Guide. This resource guide was created to assist the estimator, sales associate, and installer to cover key components of a commercial/residential installation. Since the unveiling of the popular book, CFI has been working to partner the book with a 2 day workshop for installers, estimators and sales associates alike to participate and get hands-on with surface prep. The CFI Surface Preparation Workshop will cover the importance and an array of procedures that ensure a stable subfloor, which all in all will lead to either a successful or unsuccessful installation.

To pre-register for the first CFI Surface Preparation Workshop, visit www.cfiinstallers.org/events/ today or call (816)231-4646.

Pre-register for any cfi classes at www.cfiinstallers.org/events/

48 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

The Most Recognized Certification and training Programs Worldwide Carpet•Hardwood•Laminate•Ceramic & Stone•Resilient•LVP

Are you a CFI - Certified Flooring Installer?

Questions to ask...

• • • •

Do you or your installers have recognized credentials?

When your client makes a substantial flooring purchase, are you assuring them of a quality installation?

Are you proud of the installers who represent you or your firm?

Do your customers feel comfortable when they are in their homes and offices?

CFI’s Executive Director,

Get the ASSURANCE your customers Robert Varden, sheds deserve and become CFI Certified today! light on how The

International Certified Flooring Installers Association placed him on a path of success not only as a floor covering installer, but as a business owner as well. “As an independent contractor/ installer, I was always very passionate about my work and took pride in my great hand and personal skills I had developed over the years.

It wasn’t until my involvement with CFI that I suddenly realized how much I didn’t know.

CFI taught me new skills and techniques within installation and it also gave me the opportunity to network myself and my company throughout the industry. Take it from me, CFI will open doors and opportunities for you and your career”.

Visit our website: www.cfiinstallers.org Follow us on: Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

49

The Next GIG

What’s the Best Option for You? Setting Up Your Store’s Technology

W

hen we discuss server and hosting options, we’re not talking about your favorite restaurant. Oftentimes, the IT (technical setup) needs of your business can be daunt-

ing. Here’s a quick explanation of three different ways to manage your technology.

On-Premise or Installed With an “on-premise” (also called “on-prem” or “installed”) option, all software is installed on a server, at your location. Most businesses have a few computers hooked together in a network.

One computer acts as the server. The other computers are called client computers and they can access programs, save data, etc., but everything is stored on the server. Most companies who use an on-prem solution, hire an IT company to set up their server and network.

Chad Ogden QFloors President/CEO

The benefit to this method is that long-term cost may be lower. After the initial setup costs, maintenance should be fairly inexpensive (although that depends upon many factors).

Chad Ogden is the

One disadvantage to on-prem is that there’s a higher up-front cost. Another downside is

CEO/President and

you are completely responsible for the upkeep and safety of your data. That means making

developer of QFloors

sure your systems don’t fall prey to viruses, ransomware, or other attacks, and that your

flooring software. He

data is regularly backed up (and stored at a safe, off-site location). You update your software

grew up in the flooring

as needed. If you go down, you (and your IT company) make the necessary fixes. Another

industry, has a BS in

drawback is that since the software is loaded onto your physical computers, you can’t

Computer Engineering, and worked many years in the technology field

access your applications remotely (without additional IT work and costs).

Hosted

before coming back to his

With a hosted option, the server is kept by a third-party company. It might be your soft-

flooring roots. He currently

ware company (like QFloors), or an outside hosting company. The client computers at your

serves as the Secretariat

location log in through the Internet to connect to this server remotely. Responsibility for the

of the fcB2B committee

upkeep, safety, and security of your data lies with your hosting company.

and is a widely recognized

A big benefit of a hosted solution is peace of mind. You’re ensured regular backups, pro-

industry leader in floor

tection against viruses and malware, and automatic updates. The hosting company assumes

covering technology.

responsibility to get you back up, should you go down. Upfront IT costs are much less than

To contact him, email

on-prem solutions. And you can access the software from anywhere by logging in remotely.

chad@qprosoftware.com

or call 801-563-0140.

The main downside is that you pay monthly fees for the hosting, so your long-term cost could be higher. You’re also dependent upon an Internet connection to log in, so spotty Internet could be problematic.

QFloors continued on page 55

A big benefit of a hosted solution is peace of mind. You’re ensured regular backups, protection against viruses and malware, and automatic updates.

50 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Affordable Flooring Software.

Sound appetizing?

Streamline your business, and spend less on your software than you do on your lunch!

BENEFITS: HUGE TIME SAVINGS: Flooring-specific features that generic software can’t deliver.

AFFORDABLE: Only $50/month/user, and $500 set-up fee.

USER-FRIENDLY: Easy to learn, intuitive to use.

BROWSER-BASED: Use anytime, anywhere, through your internet browser.

QUICKBOOKS™ COMPATIBLE: If you’re currently using QuickBooks for your accounting, QPro POS+ is the perfect add-on tool. Or, if you’ve just been using pen and paper, you’ll be amazed at the efficiency QPro brings. *QuickBooks is a registered trademark of Intuit, Inc.

Want more food for thought? Contact us for a free demo. www.QProSoftware.com · www.QFloors.com · Sales@QProSoftware.com · 801-563-0140 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

51

The Next GIG

Thirty-five Years in Business.

Over Ninety Employees. Thousands of Clients. RFMS is Here for You.

R

FMS is prepared to help your employees work-at-home with ease. In this time of increased teleworking, RFMS has the tools, services, training, support and partners you need to easily change the way you work during this challenging time.

■ Remote Tools

RFMS Mobile is the mobile version of our popular desktop software and allows for most front-office functions to be performed on a tablet, smartphone or laptop from anywhere with an internet connection.

RFMS offers several apps and modules to facilitate working remotely.

RFMS Mobile is the mobile version of our popular desktop software and allows for most front-office functions to be performed on a tablet, smartphone or laptop from anywhere with an internet connection. Creating customer orders or quotes, checking stock both in your warehouse and at the mill, reviewing the installation schedule and more are all possible in RFMS Mobile. Clients have called this app a true “game-changer” to allow their staff to work remotely. RFMS Mobile is bundled with Measure Mobile so if your company already uses Measure Mobile, you also have access to RFMS Mobile! https://www.rfms.com/features/rfms-mobile/ and https://www.measureflooring.com/en/edition-pricing

The Direct Deposit module allows you to pay vendors, employees, and subcontractors electronically. They get their money faster and you avoid the risk of going into the office to print and dispense checks. Direct Deposit is NACHA compliant and uses your existing bank account. Save time, save money, and stay healthy with Direct Deposit! https://www.rfms.com/features/direct-deposit/ Extensive volatility in the market makes trying to achieve clarity regarding how to manage business decisions is difficult at best. Until now the lack of available industry data has made this task impossible. The RFMS Business Insights tool has changed the landscape. This business intelligence tool is the industry standard that provides you with key performance metrics not only for your business, but also provides benchmarking metrics for other dealers like you. https://www.rfms.com/services/business-insights/

■ Remote Services We are also here with virtual services to give you peace of mind during this trying time. Our Virtual Accounting Services manage your bank reconciliations and perform your monthly journal closes. Perhaps you have had to layoff key staff or you need more time to manage your business, let our team of experienced Virtual Accounting Specialists help! This cost-effective service is timely, reliable and affordable. https://www.rfms.com/services/virtual-accounting-services/

52 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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53

RFMS has a team of 15 trainers ready to help you transform your business with RFMS. Now is the time to invest in taking your RFMS knowledge to the next level.

■ Remote Training

■ E-mail

RFMS has a team of 15 trainers ready to help you transform your business with RFMS. Now is the time to invest in taking your RFMS knowledge to the next level.

E-learning can be booked online at www.rfms.com/ training/e-learning/ for any of our trainers on a variety of topics including Measure, Measure Mobile, Order Entry, Inventory, Accounting, Month End Preparation and more. We can also conduct an evaluation of your business in a series of online meetings to identify areas of process improvement and profit erosion.

Our training team will also be launching a series of FREE Live Webinars in the coming weeks. Whether it’s brand new to you or you need a refresher, we’re here to educate you and your staff on the best business practices and most popular and time-saving features of RFMS, Measure, Measure Mobile and more.

Core: help@rfms.com Measure/Mobile: measuresupport@rfms.com

https://www.rfms.com/training/live-webinars/

RFMS also offers FREE on-demand, prerecorded Webinars direct under the Training tab on www.RFMS.com ! This is the perfect time for your staff to learn best practices in their areas of responsibility through these resources.

■ RFMS Support RFMS Software Support Analysts not only specialize in RFMS, Measure, and our Mobile platforms, they understand the industry and the unique circumstances our clients are facing during this pandemic. Analysts care about our clients and will work as a team to resolve issues and provide guidance.

The Software Support team has nine RFMS and Measure/Mobile analysts available from 7:00 AM–7:00 PM CDT. The average call back wait time is less than 30 minutes! RFMS Support can be reached several ways:

■ Phone Core: 888-215-8665 Measure/Mobile: 205-582-0403

■ Chat Click here: LIVE CHAT

■ Remote Partners RFMS has partnered with Isogent (www.isogent.com) to offer a full array of cloud-based computing options.

It’s no wonder why several hundred of our clients have made the move to the cloud given its affordability and reliability. Isogent features multiple data centers in multiple states to insure a 99.9% up time — exactly what your business needs. Perhaps now is the time to consider moving your server to the cloud and working in a truly remote environment. Isogent is a full-service Microsoft certified partner and can assist your company with working remotely immediately.

■ What else is RFMS doing during this time?

In addition to caring for our clients’ immediate needs, we are moving full steam ahead in our development efforts. As we move through this difficult period, RFMS Development is committed to continuing to innovate and bring more efficiency to your business processes.

A few new products we are working on include a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) app, Warehouse Mobile app, Property Manager web portal, along with continued enhancement of our current products and some additional exciting development efforts we look forward to releasing soon! https://www.rfms.com/company/our-mission/

At RFMS, we have been here for you for 35 years, let us be here for you now. ❚ 54 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Rollmaster continued from page 46

QFloors continued from page 50

It’s also much less expensive than the traditional Triton gun/

Web Application

tricoder. That all makes the customer’s life easier,” says Roll-

A web application is specifically designed to work natively in

Master trainer Dan Seago.

a web browser. Two examples of this type of option would be QuickBooks™ Online, or QPro software by QFloors.

Grow Your Business with Intention

The pros to this option are similar to a hosted solution,

Two of the most popular RollMaster integrations are RM Mea-

where the security, storage, updates, and upkeep of the

sureSquare, and RM Analytics with Tableau. Combined, these

data are completely taken care of for you. Web applications

help flooring professionals grow their businesses faster than

provide the greatest flexibility and mobility; you can easily

ever before.

access them from any device with a web browser. Another

RM MeasureSquare offers fast and accurate estimates that help dealers generate more business. When you’re

benefit is that you cut out expensive hosting charges, and the upfront setup costs are less.

able to present highly polished, professional looking esti-

The major drawback to this option is that, like host-

mates that are also extremely precise, it helps to win cus-

ing, you are dependent upon a stable Internet connection.

tomers over. Being able to generate those estimates faster

Therefore, companies often put into place back-up Internet

than your competitors? That’s how you win more sales!

solutions in case of outages.

RM MeasureSquare is integrated through the RollMaster cloud-based program, allowing for anytime-anywhere

Still have questions? We’d be happy to answer them.

Email us at sales@qprosoftware.com. ❚

online access.

After winning more jobs, data visualization allows RollMaster users to make business decisions in a snap. RM Analytics with Tableau used to only be accessible to huge corporations but is now available for businesses of all sizes.

It allows flooring businesses to see real-time data in beautifully presented graphs that make sense. And it helps them make quick, informed decisions to grow their businesses even faster.

Growing your business can be hard. But, using powerful software can make it easier and more accessible for all flooring businesses. RollMaster’s industry leading cloud-based software automates every process within your busy flooring operation, giving you all the tools, you need to bring your business to the next level. ❚

Two of the most popular RollMaster integrations are RM MeasureSquare, and RM Analytics with Tableau.

WFCA Members Now Have FREE Access to WFCA’s Online University As each of us navigates the impact of COVID-19 on our lives, we hope that you can find comfort in the strength of the WFCA community. Know that you’re not alone, and we’re here to help in any way that we can.

To help during this critical time, we’re offering FREE access to the WFCA Online University — a unique education platform with modules focused on improving staff and owner’s skills. Be sure to take advantage of this free offer, which is available to you through June 30, 2020.

If you have any questions regarding the WFCA Online University or on how to join, please email awelch@wfca.org .

World Floor Covering Association 855.330.1183 | 706.217.1165 | www.wfca.org

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

Schönox Offers Social Distance Learning Program

S

chönox HPS North America is now offering a Social Distance Learning program making a diverse set of training opportunities available to its customers. Webinars, CEUs, live-

cast demonstrations, and industry discussions are underway engaging distributors, contractors, architects & designers, and flooring professionals.

“Schönox Social Distance Learning is providing opportunities for professionals to broaden

Schönox Social Distance Learning covers a wide range of topics including self-leveling techniques, synthetic and hybrid technologies, primer selections, subfloor analysis, moisture mitigation solutions, and product systems designed to meet subfloor challenges.

their knowledge base, but this is also a platform for them to engage with one another and prepare for the other side of this crisis,” explained Thomas Trissl, Principal, Schönox HPS North America. “We wanted to help professionals keep the long view while gaining a sharper set of skills, current product knowledge, and fresh project ideas.”

Schönox Social Distance Learning covers a wide range of topics including self-leveling techniques, synthetic and hybrid technologies, primer selections, subfloor analysis, moisture mitigation solutions, and product systems designed to meet subfloor challenges. There are prescheduled course times, but there are also opportunities for flexible scheduling based on the interests and needs of professional groups and firms. Those interested in participating can contact Carol Morris at 855-391-2649 or contact your local sales representative.

“In recent days, we have seen the importance of strong, efficient subfloor renovation work in the conversion of hospitality and office spaces into hospitals so it’s no surprise that the flooring community is particularly interested in the speed and strength aspects of Schönox products,” explained John Bonney, Vice President – Sales Operations, Schönox HPS North America. “Participation in the training sessions and courses has far exceeded our expectations, and we think with good reason.” ❚

56 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Education & Information is the Primary Focus at Schönox

W

ednesday, the 11th day of March 2020, changed our world in

DOES YOUR PROJECT HAVE THE NEED FOR SPEED?

the United States as President Donald Trump announced he was

declaring the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency. We heard it, but what that meant or how our lives and livelihood would change not in weeks but in some cases hour-by-hour over the next 14 days could not truly be appreciated on that day. Who would be affected, how would we be affected, and how do we survive and persevere economically through this unprecedented time?

we’re ön It.

Schönox leadership, though strategically located across the US, immediately huddled together via conference calls and began brainstorming. Carefully considering all the dependent families on the payroll and a watchful eye on established goals, they set to work.

“Sales team members were almost immediately asked by customers not to come by their offices or job sites. Projects were put on hold indefinitely,

ZM RAPID CEMENT-BASED, RAPID-SETTING, SELF-LEVELER

and orders previously placed and ready for shipment were canceled. So, what were we going to do?” asked Thomas Trissl, Principal of Schönox HPS

There’s fast, and then there‘s ZM Rapid fast. Schönox ZM Rapid is specially formulated for the leveling of interior floors under tight time constraints, and most installations can begin in as little as 90 minutes.

ZM Rapid pours smooth, dries quickly, and finishes strong with a compressive strength of 7,550 PSI. Save time, money, and hassle with ZM Rapid from Schönox. Visit hpsubfloors.com or consult your HPS Schönox representative today for more information.

North America, Inc. The first bit of communication was that as a company, “We were going to remain positive; we were going to keep the doors open for as long as allowed, and we were going to pour information into our team members and our customers.”

Education and information became the primary focus. Provide as much educational and instructional information to our customers while they are now, some forcibly, at home. It became apparent quite quickly that “social distancing” was not going to be as temporary as people had hoped. So, let’s make the best of the situation; let’s turn lemons into lemonade.

“In recent days, we have seen the importance of strong, efficient subfloor renovation work in the conversion of hospitality and office spaces into hospitals so it’s no surprise that the flooring community is particularly interested in the speed and strength aspects of Schönox products,”

“We were going to remain positive; we were going to keep the doors open for as long as allowed, and we were going to pour information into our team members and our customers.”

©2020_HPS_ZM_RAPID_PFR_1-3_Q1_20-0315

explained John Bonney, Vice President of Sales Operations, Schönox

Take your business to a whole new level.

Call 855.391.2649 or visit hpsubfloors.com to learn how your projects run smoother with Schönox Ön It.

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

57

HPS North America. “Participation in the training sessions and courses has far exceeded our expectations, and we think with good reason.”

In 2019, Schönox HPS had adopted and had started implementing sales training by Miller Heiman. Now was the perfect time to focus on this training and expand foundational teachings to other departments. A long list of wants and wishes were made as to the training subjects that would be most helpful and could be accomplished at a distance, along with a list of existing training classes that could be retooled or enhanced and taught at a distance.

Priorities were set and development and production began on live webinars, AIA approved CEUs, and a series of training videos.

“We want to help our customers to be better prepared when all of us reach the other side of this crisis; many of our efforts are focused on that goal.”

The first two webinars, developed with Fuse Alliance, Starnet, and distribution partners in mind, were fleshed out for a roll-out target date of 3/31, a mere 14 days after the initial national emergency declaration. One centered around the basic product information surrounding Schönox products of self-levelers, primers, and adhesives. The other strictly focused on moisture mitigation products. While adhering to CDC guidelines, every product from liquids to powder compounds were re-recorded in the Florence Support Center application room. At the same time, the trainers polished and honed their presentation skills in the training rooms. Simultaneously a few states over, another team was professionally filming a series of training videos and CEUs based on the AIA guidelines, that were scheduled to start releasing the week of April 6.

While filming was going on in two states, sales team members were conferencing with leadership and provided additional sales training tips and techniques. The future was and is uncertain, but Schönox would know that upon reaching the other side, their team and their customers would be ready. Ready to not only hit the ground running at their project sites, but their customers would also be armed with the knowledge about products like ZM Rapid, which dries in around 90 mins. Today’s shut down time is going to be tomorrow’s making up for lost time. Fortunately, Schönox has products that can reduce flooring prep from several days to a few hours, which will be critical once the social distancing band is lifted.

“At Schönox we are always working hard to meet our customers where they need us most on projects ranging from the everyday to the extreme and we are in a period where the days are both of those things,” commented Carol Morris, Sales Operations Manager.

“We want to help our customers to be better prepared when all of us reach the other side of this crisis; many of our efforts are focused on that goal.” ❚

Today’s shut down time is going to be tomorrow’s making up for lost time. Fortunately, Schönox has products that can reduce flooring prep from several days to a few hours, which will be critical once the social distancing band is lifted.

58 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

5

COVID-19

AHF Products’ COVID-19 Update to Our Valued Customers

A Many of our brands have been around for over a hundred years, and this legacy in the wood flooring industry has remained due to our focus on our customers’ needs. We continue to remain committed to taking care of our customers throughout this process as we succeed together in the future.

HF Products’ highest priority remains the health, safety, and well-being of our employees, their families, our customers, and business partners. Our response plan is to maintain a safe workflow while continuing to provide a level of quality and service our customers expect. Employees at our headquarters in Mountville, PA, are working remotely. We continue to be available to support customer service and are collaborating using online technologies.

We are operating at all our manufacturing and distribution locations in accordance with each jurisdiction’s requirements in the United States, Cambodia, and Shanghai.

Additionally, we are designated as a critical infrastructure business as a manufacturer and distributor of wood products and a supplier to housing construction under the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response.

We are following CDC and local health and safety guidelines as we monitor supply chains for product components and raw materials. We are planning for any possible disruptions due to the virus.

Many of our brands have been around for over a hundred years, and this legacy in the wood flooring industry has remained due to our focus on our customers’ needs.

We continue to remain committed to taking care of our customers throughout this process as we succeed together in the future.

Our sincere thanks for everyone’s patience and understanding. We are grateful for our strong partnerships during this challenging time. We will move forward together and continue to be a force for positive good in our world.

Sincerely, Mike Bell, Chief Commercial Officer AHF Products

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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The collection is DW Select.

Style is Century, color is 2706 Live Beautifully

SHOWIN’ OUR STUFF

Engineered Floors PureBac

The PurBac backing system

PureBac is our first premium backing system on our proprietary PureColor® fiber system. PureBac offers unprecedented flexibility and dimensional stability.

PureBac provides the best foundation for carpet and includes the industry’s first 10 year WET delamination warranty. Containing no latex, PureBac increases ease of installation by being lighter, more flexible, and softer, which saves time, energy, and money.

DW Select DW Select brings a new collection of beautifully styled patterns, textures, and colors to the Dream Weaver product fam-

ily. Inspired by the natural landscape, these styles bring textural nuances, reminiscent of natural materials, into the home. The tailored fabrication of the products offers timeless design elements coupled with functionality for the style conscious, yet active household.

twistX twistX delivers industry leading durability in synthetic fiber that has a 33% higher bundle size, meaning each square foot of carpet has more yarn and higher densities. This provides incredible softness under foot along with unparalleled toughness. ❚

TwistX consists of 33% higher bundle sizes, meaning each square foot of carpet has more yarn and higher densities.

TwistX utilizes a twist multiplier to deliver industry leading durability in synthetic fiber.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS: • PureColor® is made of 100% PureColor solution-dyed fiber, meaning the color is permanent and will not bleach from spot cleaning, fade from prolonged sunlight

• PureColor resists staining from life’s harshest stains, including red wine, mud, and pet accidents.

• PureColor is made using 30% less energy, 42% less greenhouse gases, and 87% less water than traditional manufacturing.

LIMITED WARRANTIES: • Lifetime Stain Resistance Warranty • Lifetime Fade Resistance Warranty • Lifetime Pet Stains Resistance Warranty • 25-Year Soil Resistance Warranty • 25-Year Abrasive Wear Resistance Warranty • 25-Year Texture Retention Warranty • 25-Year Manufacturing Defects Warranty • Transferable Warranty • Stair Warranty • 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee

60 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Inspired by natural landscapes, DW Select® styles bring textural nuances, reminiscent of innate materials, into the home. functionality for the style conscious, yet active household.

Crafted for comfort. Built for life.

Easy to clean

Dream Weaver carpets are engineered for life’s moments. Made with PureColor technology, they are infused with color, instead of dyed in it.

Doesn’t fade

Resists stains

The color on traditional carpet fibers sits on top like the red skin of a radish.

With PureColor, the color penetrates the fiber like the orange of a carrot.

Won’t wear

engineeredfloors.com | dwcarpet.com

Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

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Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Facility Everyday Steps, Steps When Someone is Sick, and Considerations for Employers How to clean and disinfect Wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect.

Clean • Clean surfaces using soap and water. Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces.

High touch surfaces include: Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.

Disinfect • Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty.

Then, use a household disinfectant.

• Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectant.

Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.

Many products recommend: - Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label) - Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.

• Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface.

Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.

Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.

Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute To make a bleach solution, mix: - 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water • Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol.

Soft surfaces For soft surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes • Clean the surface using soap and water or with cleaners appropriate for use on these surfaces.

cdc.gov/coronavirus CS316248A 04/01/2020

62 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

• Launder items (if possible) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

OR • Disinfect with an EPA-registered household disinfectant. These disinfectants meet EPA’s criteria for use against COVID-19.

Electronics • For electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines

• Close off areas used by the sick person.

• Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. Wait 24 hours before you clean or disinfect. If 24 hours is not feasible, wait as long as possible.

• Clean and disinfect all areas used by the sick person, such as offices, bathrooms, common areas, shared electronic equipment like tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines.

• Consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics.

• Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and dinfecting.

- If no guidance, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Dry surface thoroughly.

Laundry For clothing, towels, linens and other items

Cleaning and disinfecting your building or facility if someone is sick

HOT

• Wear disposable gloves.

• Wash hands with soap and water as soon as you remove the gloves.

• Do not shake dirty laundry.

• Launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.

• Dirty laundry from a sick person can be washed with other people’s items.

• If more than 7 days since the sick person visited or used the facility, additional cleaning and disinfection is not necessary.

- Continue routing cleaning and disinfection .

When cleaning • Wear disposable gloves and gowns for all tasks in the cleaning process, including handling trash.

- Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) might be required based on the cleaning/disinfectant products being used and whether there is a risk of splash.

- Gloves and gowns should be removed carefully to avoid contamination of the wearer and the surrounding area.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.

- Always wash immediately after removing gloves and after contact with a sick person.

• Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance above for surfaces.

Page 2 of 3

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- Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol may be used. However, if hands are visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water.

• Additional key times to wash hands include: - After blowing one’s nose, coughing, or sneezing.

- After using the restroom.

- Before eating or preparing food.

- After contact with animals or pets.

- Before and after providing routine care for another person who needs assistance (e.g., a child).

Additional Considerations for Employers

COVID-19

• Educate workers performing cleaning, laundry, and trash pick-up to recognize the symptoms of COVID-19.

• Provide instructions on what to do if they develop symptoms within 14 days after their last possible exposure to the virus.

• Develop policies for worker protection and provide training to all cleaning staff on site prior to providing cleaning tasks.

- Training should include when to use PPE, what PPE is necessary, how to properly don (put on), use, and doff (take off) PPE, and how to properly dispose of PPE. • Ensure workers are trained on the hazards of the cleaning chemicals used in the workplace in accordance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

• Comply with OSHA’s standards on Bloodborne Pathogens (29 CFR 1910.1030), including proper disposal of regulated waste, and PPE (29 CFR 1910.132).

For facilities that house people overnight: • Follow CDC’s guidance for colleges and universities. Work with state and local health officials to determine the best way to isolate people who are sick and if temporary housing is needed.

• For guidance on cleaning and disinfecting a sick person’s bedroom/bathroom, review CDC’s guidance on disinfecting your home if someone is sick.

Page 3 of 3

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CARE Act Funding Information WHAT WILL LENDERS BE LOOKING FOR? In evaluating eligibility, lenders are directed to consider whether the borrower was in operation before February 15, 2020 and had employees for whom they paid salaries and payroll taxes or paid independent contractors.

Lenders will also ask you for a good faith certification that: 1. The uncertainty of current economic conditions makes the loan request necessary to support ongoing operations

What lenders will NOT LOOK FOR

2. The borrower will use the loan proceeds to retain workers and maintain payroll or make mortgage, lease, and utility payments 3. Borrower does not have an application pending for a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here

•

4. From Feb. 15, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2020, the borrower has not received a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here (Note: There is an opportunity to fold emergency loans made between Jan. 31, 2020 and the date this loan program becomes available into a new loan)

That the borrower sought and was unable to obtain credit elsewhere.

•

A personal guarantee is not required for the loan.

•

No collateral is required for the loan.

If you are an independent contractor, sole proprietor, or self-employed individual, lenders will also be looking for certain documents (final requirements will be announced by the government) such as payroll tax filings, Forms 1099-MISC, and income and expenses from the sole proprietorship.

HOW MUCH CAN I BORROW? Loans can be up to 2.5 x the borrower’s average monthly payroll costs, not to exceed $10 million.

How do I calculate my average PAYROLL COSTS? sum of INCLUDED payroll costs

www.risk-strategies.com

sum of EXCLUDED payroll costs

PAYROLL COSTS

Document Content Source : U.S. Chamber of Commerce

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65

HOW MUCH CAN I BORROW - (continued) INCLUDED

PAYROLL COST:

1. For Employers: The sum of payments of any compensation with respect to employees that is a: •

salary, wage, commission, or similar compensation;

•

payment of cash tip or equivalent;

•

payment for vacation, parental, family, medical,

NON SEASONAL EMPLOYERS:

or sick leave

Maximum loan =

•

allowance for dismissal or separation

•

payment required for the provisions of group health care benefits, including insurance premiums

•

payment of any retirement benefit

•

payment of state or local tax assessed on the

2.5 x Average total monthly payroll costs incurred during the year prior to the loan date For businesses not operational in 2019:

compensation of the employee 2. For Sole Proprietors, Independent Contractors, and Self-Employed Individuals: The sum of payments of any compensation to or income of a sole proprietor or independent contractor that is a wage, commission, income, net earnings from self-employment, or similar compensation and that is in an amount that is not more than $100,000 in one year, as pro-rated for the covered period.

EXCLUDED PAYROLL COST: 1. Compensation of an individual employee in excess of an annual salary of $100,000, as prorated for the period February 15, to June 30, 2020

2.5 x Average total monthly payroll costs incurred for January and February 2020 SEASONAL EMPLOYERS:

Maximum loan =

2.5 x Average total monthly payments for payroll costs for the 12-week period beginning February 15, 2019 or March 1, 2019 (decided by the loan recipient) and ending June 30, 2019

2. Payroll taxes, railroad retirement taxes, and income taxes 3. Any compensation of an employee whose principal place of residence is outside of the United States 4. Qualified sick leave wages for which a credit is allowed under section 7001 of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (Public Law 116–5 127); or qualified family leave wages for which a credit is allowed under section 7003 of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

www.risk-strategies.com

66 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

Document Content Source : U.S. Chamber of Commerce

WILL THIS LOAN BE FORGIVEN? Borrowers are eligible to have their loans forgiven.

WHATS NEXT?

HOW MUCH? A borrower is eligible for loan forgiveness equal to the amount the borrower spent on the following items during the 8-week period beginning on the date of the origination of the loan: • Payroll costs (using the same definition of payroll costs used to determine loan eligibility)

Look out for more information about eligible lenders and additional guidance from the SBA soon.

For more guidance and resources for small businesses, visit uschamber.com/co

• Interest on the mortgage obligation incurred in the ordinary course of business • Rent on a leasing agreement • Payments on utilities (electricity, gas, water, transportation,telephone, or internet) • For borrowers with tipped employees, additional wages paid to those employees The loan forgiveness cannot exceed the principal.

HOW COULD THE FORGIVENESS BE REDUCED? The amount of loan forgiveness calculated above is reduced if there is a reduction in the number of employees or a reduction of greater than 25% in wages paid to employees.

Specifically: Reduction based on reduction of number of employees

PAYROLL COST Calculated on page 2

Average Number of Full-Time Equivalent Employees (FTEs) Per Month for the 8-Weeks Beginning on Loan Origination

Option 1: Average number of FTEs per month from February 15, 2019 to June 30, 2019 Option 2: Average number of FTEs per month from January 1, 2020 to February 29, 2020 For Seasonal Employers: Average number of FTEs per month from February 15, 2019 to June 30, 2019

Reduction based on reduction in salaries

PAYROLL COST Calculated on page 2

For any employee who did not earn during any pay period in 2019 wages at an annualized rate more than $100,000, the amount of any reduction in wages that is greater than 25% compared to their most recent full . quarter.

WHAT IF I BRING BACK EMPLOYEES OR RESTORE WAGES? Reductions in employment or wages that occur during the period beginning on February 15, 2020, and ending 30 days after enactment of the CARES Act, (as compared to February 15, 2020) shall not reduce the amount of loan forgiveness IF by June 30, 2020 the borrower eliminates the reduction in employees or reduction in wages. www.risk-strategies.com

Document Content Source : U.S. Chamber of Commerce

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CUSTOM GROUT SOLUTIONS ®

RIGHT GROUT. RIGHT COLOR. FOR ANY JOB.

AVAILABLE MARCH 2020!

T he performance and handling you need — we have the right grout for every job.

40 colors, available in all grouts, to complement any tile and stone installation. n Grout Solutions are backed by the strength of Custom Building Products. n n

For the right grout — In the right color — Count on CUSTOM. DOWNLOAD CUSTOM’S MOBILE APP

68 Premier Flooring Retailer | Q1 2020

CustomBuildingProducts.com

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Available at The Home Depot and tile distributors nationwide.