VOL 29.2 March/April 2011 R38 incl. VAT
IN THIS ISSUE: Sustainability • Training & Skills Development • Focus on Domotex 2011
Business Environments • US Top Designer Survey • Authentic Flooring
REFERENCE Guide
COVER STORY Almost 40 years of outstanding customer service Formed almost four decades ago, Peter Bates Flooring has been providing a superb service to customers with the installation of a wide range of quality floorcoverings. A pioneer in the realm of access flooring, Peter Bates Flooring is recognised as being a leader in this genre of the floorcovering industry, and has also gained an outstanding reputation for quality installation and customer service with a sales programme that also includes carpets and carpet tiles, wood and laminate floorcoverings, and vinyl sheeting and tiles. A recent revamp of the company branding has taken place….see the full Peter Bates profile on pages 32-35 of this issue.
51
73
85
93
Access Flooring Bates Access Flooring Peter Bates Flooring
p97 FRONT COVER, p32 - 33
Adhesives / Coatings a.b.e. Construction Chemicals Chryso SA FloorworX Smoothedge Tile & Floor Care Zimbo’s Trading
p47 p47 p55 p49 p92 p5
Carpets Belgotex Floorcoverings H&M Flooring Nexus (Belgotex Floorcoverings) Peter Bates Flooring Selborne Carpet Wholesalers Van Dyck Carpets
p2 p43 p2, p58 - 59 FRONT COVER, p32 - 33 p48 p6, p12 - 13
Ceramic, Porcelain and Stone Falcon Tiling Products H&M Flooring Tile Africa Tiletoria
V OLUME 2 9.2 • MAR CH/APRIL
•
2011
p41 p43 p31 Inside Back Cover
To page 5
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
3
COMING UP! RESIDENTIAL MARKET:
COMMERCIAL MARKET:
Three hot topics in the next issue that will make it hard to put down! Don’t miss this one!
Carpets
DISTRIBUTION:
135 000 COPIES What does partnering with the GREAT FLOORING GUIDE give you? A B C D E F
Aproximately 1 million actively buying consumersB Spend less, reach more Largest décor print order in S.A Multi-platform exposure: print, online & exhibitions Experienced expertise ALL OF THE ABOVE
This is our annual review of the carpet sector and, as the main feature, it covers inspiring carpet ideas, materials, and design applications to broaden the specifiers’ professional creativity. This article will feature new products as well as tried-and-tested carpeting for decoratively finished interiors, and we will look at the latest trends that are happening both locally and overseas.
Final Floor Solutions
Some systems and treatments are essential, others merely cosmetic, but architects, designers, contractors and developers need to know what is available in the wonderful world of floor finishes. Trims, joints, coatings, sealants, screeds, mats and rugs, skirtings, application techniques, aftercare, anti-slip treatments, polishes, antistain treatments – the list is endless, but this issue will aim to bring all these solutions to the fore to enable people to get the very best out of their floors, in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.
Residential Specification Choices
DEADLINE: 31 MAY 2011 DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE AUGUST 2011 • DECOREX JOHANNESBURG 4 000 copies SEPTEMBER 2011 • Tuis 60 000 copies • Home 36 000 copies • ELLE DÉCORATION 31 000 copies
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Tel 012 347 7530 Fax 012 347 7523 E-mail joanna@mediainafrica.co.za Website www.mediainafrica.co.za
This feature is dedicated to the flooring product options for security complexes, townhouses and upmarket residences. We will be speaking to real estate managers, design professionals and developers to find out what specification options are available.
Roxanne Mancini: roxanne@mediainafrica.co.za Joanna Papastamopoulos: joanna@mediainafrica.co.za Tel: +27 12 347 7530 www.mediainafrica.co.za
REFERENCE Guide Cleaning & Maintenance FloorworX Matco Marketing MilliCare
p38 p71 p7
Exterior Flooring & Paving Belgotex Floorcoverings H&M Flooring
p2 p43
Industrial, Resin & Concrete Flooring a.b.e. Construction Chemicals Cemcrete Chryso SA Flowcrete SA Lafarge SA Sika SA StonCor Africa Resilient Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings FloorworX H&M Flooring Peter Bates Flooring Polyflor SA Tuff Floors
continued from page 3
p47 p84 p47 p61 p78 - 79 p37 p40
p2 Inside front cover p43 FRONT COVER, p32 - 33 p50 p64
Underfloor Heating Speedheat
p65
Seamless Flooring H&M Flooring Quartz Carpet StonCor Africa
p43 p3, p9 p40
Training & Skills Development Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy Cemcrete FloorworX Lafarge SA
p80 - 81 p84 p82 - 83 p78 - 79
Wood, Laminates & Bamboo Barrow Flooring H&M Flooring Peter Bates Flooring Rhoms Timberworld Suntups Solid Wooden Flooring Teragren Tiletoria
Back Cover p43 FRONT COVER, p32 - 33 p98 - 99 p39 p69 Inside Back Cover
Accessories and other Falcon Tiling Products Genesis Kirk Marketing Pretoria Institute for Architecture The Office Plant Transiton Transport (Transportation)
p41 p8 p29 p101 p105 p102 - 103
Note: Editorials excluded, listed in alphabetical order
Wood specifying
at its best! MEMBER
“TM”
S.A. WOOD & LAMINATE FLOORING ASSOCIATION
Cape Town +27 21 511-4693 | Johannesburg +27 11 794-1012 info@zimbostrading.co.za | www.zimbostrading.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
5
leaders in the flooring sector.
FLOORS is about ceramics, carpets, vinyls, wood, laminates, marble, granite, cement, stone ... any floor you can think of. It is also about accessories like rugs, adhesives and tools. Readers are welcome to contact us for any information. FLOORS is published six weekly by Media in Africa (Pty) Ltd. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We accept no responsibility for information published. PUBLISHER: Media in Africa (Pty) Ltd. Contact information: Tel (012) 347 7530 Fax (012) 347 7523 International: +27 e-mail: floors@mediainafrica.co.za PO Box 25260, Monument Park, 0105; Republic of South Africa Unit G, First Floor, Castle Walk Corporate Park, Cnr Nossob & Swakop Streets, Erasmuskloof Ext. 3, Pretoria, RSA
Unique Authentic Flooring: Original floor type applications
Founder:
EDITORIAL Comment Liezel van der Merwe
Roxanne Mancini
Second quarter here we come! Floors in Africa is excited about what the industry will reveal this year, and with positive feedback from the industry we look forward to a wonderful year for everyone in this very niche sector of the built environment. In this issue we focus on many important topics, namely Sustainability (pg 51 ), Training & Skills Development (pg 73), Authentic Flooring (pg 85), and Business Environments (pg 93): In the search for Sustainability: Sustainability isn’t just about using a product with a green label for your flooring application. Floors in Africa takes an in-depth look at lifecycle costs, innovative green technologies and flooring products that have a minimal impact on the environment. Needed Training & Skills Development: The success of a company can be attributed to skills development of stakeholders and information sharing within the industry. This issue takes a look at what training initiatives and skills development are being undertaken by industry
offer an unmatched aesthetic appeal. This feature will
Schalk Burger
ensure that specifiers, designers and developers have all
Editor:
the solutions and product information they need for these
Liezel van der Merwe Cell 082 7700 799
real traditional and sought-after flooring installations. Demanding Business Environments: Office parks and commercial enterprises have a different set of requirements and range of flooring product solutions. This issue will focus on the trends and techniques for flooring in business environments. We also as always offer you views and news from around the world with our much-anticipated Domotex Review (pages 16-27). If you couldn’t attend, don’t worry – in the pages that follow we will direct you to the most important feedback from this gigantic international showcase!
Financial Director: Fanie Venter
News Editor: Dave Soons Tel 012 807 7012
Business Unit Manager: Roxanne Mancini Cell 082 779 5751
Business Unit Co-ordinator:
FLOORS In Africa also brags its latest appointment –
Madelein Smith
Joanna Papastamopoulos (yes, Greek!) She will assist
Client Support:
from a client excellence point of view.
Joanna Papastamopoulos Cell 072 300 0867
Floors Sincerely,
Design and Layout: Jakolien Strydom
Financial Manager: Gerda Bezuidenhout
Proofreader: Liezel van der Merwe
Roxanne Mancini
Signa Evans
EDITOR
BUSINESS UNIT MANAGER
REPRO & PRINTING: Business Print Centre
8 173
FI nena ot uv raet i Foonc & u sD: eAsui tghne n t i c F l o o r i n g
With the world’s largest range of high quality
For your copy of
finishing profiles for floors and walls always
the new Genesis
delivery anywhere in South Africa.
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in stock, choosing Genesis ensures on-time Ask for our full colour 108 page catalogue
and discover what makes Genesis the market leader for quality, choice and service in the flooring profile market.
catalogue, call
email genesis@tfc.co.za or visit the genesis website:
www.tfc.co.za
www.tfc.co.za Toll Free 0800 00 6173
www.tfc.co.za Toll Free 0800 00 6173 www.tfc.co.za Fwww.tfc.co.za LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Innovation & Design
Do it right first time, every time! “Our architect recommended using Quartz Carpet. We wanted the job done properly the first time – with professionals and guarantees. We were thrilled when we discovered flooring that could be used inside our bathroom, as well as outside around the pool.” Kathy Gibb (owner)
T
he architect, Michael Borgstrom from Archilab, needed to open the apartment up as much as pos-
sible, working with minimal materials, and he said, “We like to use Quartz Carpet around the pools and in showers and bathrooms because of its non-slip properties and its continuous effect.” “There are other players in the so-called seamless market, but they do not offer the same product, so Quartz Carpet is pretty much in a category of its own,” he said. Kathy the homeowner continues that she is absolutely thrilled with the finish, “It is neat, it looks and feels great and it wears very well. We have had tenants in that apartment, so it was important that the fittings and finishes handle well,” she said. Jeremy Stewart from Quartz Carpet was not surprised by their comments and adds that the architect has done a great job with the apartment and says that such is their faith in the product that Quartz Carpet offers a 5-year warranty, which extends to the non-yellowing of the floor, once it is exposed to South Africa’s harsh UV conditions. Tel: 086 1782 789 Website: www.quartzcarpet.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Innovation & Design
Héctor
Unlimited Space
Ruiz-Velázquez’s
When asked to transform the attic space of an early 20th Century building in Madrid into a selfcontained, modern living space, architect Héctor
I
nstead of taking the existing rooms as a starting point, Ruiz-Velázquez
placed a large three-dimensional object in the space, creating a play of heights and a second level. The mezzanine-like structure not only provides a separate sleeping area and extra storage, but also screens off a kitchen area and bathroom. Entitled Unlimited Space this has been built out of ‘a total freedom of layers’. As if the design would be a three-dimensional object, every one of the rooms or points of the home can be located by specifying the axis of coordinates. The result is the power to move around in a few square metres at different heights, going up and
Ruiz-Velázquez had to think outside the box, and
down, offering a new experience of
created multiple level living in a single storey
to explore the space. The transition
space for the Ceramic House project.
roominess in the context of a home, between the rooms is continuous and lets the movement flow freely across the numerous levels.
10
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Innovation & Design
Floors in Africa contacted Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez for his comment, and he said, “This is a dry system installation that can be totally reused if someone has to move from the house to another one. Because of the way is built it is totally sustainable (dry system doesn’t have a heavy construction), and it minimises the environmental impact because of not having waste on site,” he says. “It is also without noise in the installation, which is good for the environment.” The spatial flexibility that transforms this home is an innovative housing concept which adapts itself to the actual necessities and to the new usages, where roominess, brightness and time flow in a multifunctional space without corners or precedence. It is also about expanding the parameters of interior design as well as the conventional trends of arrangement. This project was in response to an assignment by ASCER (Asociación Española de Fabricantes de Azulejos y Pavimentos Cerámicos – the Spanish Association of Tile and Ceramic Flooring Manufacturers) for the creation of a new living concept, where the ceramic tile receives special treatment that turns it into the indisputable protagonist of the space. Ceramic tile is a material which, due to its versatility of application, offers multiple possibilities in its planimetry. According to the architect’s objective, the ceramic tile thus transforms itself into an excellent dynamic entity able to offer the luxury of working in three dimensions. “Change and continuation” and “tradition and innovation” simply unfold with a new angle on the use of ceramic material. “The conquest of the square metre has become one of the major concerns of our times. The unaffordable prices and the shortage of living areas in the city have called for a redefinition of the spaces we live in,” says Ruiz-Velázquez. “In this attic design of only 50m² in the centre of Madrid, we tried to use every centimeter of available space, combining efficiency, spirit and sensibility by means of aesthetics
Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez’s
and function.” Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez has a degree in architecture from the University of Virginia, USA, and founded his own architectural office in 1992 as a culmination of an extensive professional practice that includes large-scale architectural projects to corporate image concepts. A characteristic of his studio is its diversity not only in its cultural aspects but also regarding the professional disciplines. The studio covers projects from urbanism to graphic design, industrial and interior design, photography, as well as integral corporate images. Projects by Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez have been featured in numerous international and global publications and he has been invited to lecture at niversities and public and private institutions in different parts of the world.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Innovation & Design
12
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Innovation & Design
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
13
Innovation & Design
US Top Designer Survey 2010 Floor Focus, the well-respected magazine for the
but corporate work is nearly back to 2008 levels. Here are the top
US flooring industry, runs an annual survey of the
over the previous year.
four; all the others recorded 5% or less with little if any variation
250 top designers to find out their views, trends
2010
2009
1. Healthcare
32%
33%
results for 2010 are very interesting.
2. Education
20%
23%
A
3. Government
25%
19%
4. Corporate
10%
4%
and preferences for flooring materials, and the
fter 2009, which had been described as the toughest year in recent memory for the US design community – with the
recession and the credit crisis the main causes – there was some recovery during 2010, including the corporate sector which had been one of the hardest hit the year before. Vinyl flooring also set the pace during 2010.
Designers’ priorities With quality the top priority for the first time since 2007, and style selection dropping to second place, ‘confidence in company’ is even
In another sign of how tough things are, the survey shows signs
more important this year, and price takes a definite back number.
of a faltering commitment to sustainability by the architectural and design community, although it still continues to play a central role
2010
in the greening of the built environment.
2009
1. Quality
25%
19%
turer’s commitment to sustainability as the most important factor in
2. Style selection
24%
25%
deciding who to do business with. Only 61% consider the green
3. Confidence in company
27%
11%
elements of a floorcovering as important when specifying prod-
4. Service
13%
16%
However, not a single designer in the survey names a manufac-
ucts, compared to 73% two years ago.
Top Projects Designers reported on their top three projects of 2010 and the results show a continued growth in government jobs as well as small office work, which is largely tenant improvement. Healthcare
5. Appearance retention/performance
9%
13%
6. Personal relationships
5%
3%
7. Salespeople
4%
5%
8. Price
3%
6%
9. Commitment to green
0%
2%
was down 4% and hospitality was also down, as were large and
What influences product choice?
medium corporate jobs – down for the third year.
This item is where the US market differs from the South African the 2010
2009
most, because ‘Mill reps’ at 43% has doubled over the past five years
Healthcare
26%
30%
as the biggest influence on product choice, and ‘Contract dealers’ is
Total Corporate
24%
22%
Large & Medium (non-Fortune 500)
(12%)
(15%)
Fortune 500
(5%)
(5%)
Small office
(7%)
(2%)
Total Education
22%
20%
Technical advice
University
(16%)
(16%)
There is a swing away from designers turning to each other for
Other
(6%)
(4%)
advice as the Internet takes over for the first time.
Government
10%
7%
to have the same influence locally. ‘Architect folders’ has remained steady at 30% (down 7%, at second), but all the other choices come in at less than 10%.
Institutional/Public space
7%
8%
2010
2009
Hospitality
5%
8%
1. Internet
26%
25%
Retail
3%
3%
2. Other designers
21%
25%
2%
3. Mill reps
19%
14%
Residential
2%
4. Contract dealers
14%
13%
5. Magazines
13%
14%
Healthcare topped this list for the third year in a row, and education
6. Mill literature
4%
5%
once again claimed the second spot; government work weakened,
7. Fibre producers
3%
3%
What new markets are you going for?
14
third with 7% (up from 2% the previous year), but these don’t seem
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Innovation & Design
Technical details
Looks – the modern, contemporary, cutting-edge looks are
Stain resistance always seems to be cited as the most important technical detail, and even more so this year. Wear layers shows the biggest gain.
today’s ‘in’ trend although there is still a leaning towards the sophisticated and the classic looks. Wood visuals are out.
Hot products 2010
2009
2008
Carpet tile is still leading the pack by a wide margin, linoleum has held
1. Stain resistance
97%
92%
77%
the second spot for three years, and luxury vinyl is climbing the list.
2. Backing
66%
76%
55%
3. Wear layers
62%
55%
47%
4. Environment
61%
66%
73%
1. Carpet tile
73%
77%
4%
5. Safety
56%
57%
51%
2. Linoleum
46%
41%
23%
6. Antimicrobials
53%
51%
39%
3. Luxury vinyl tile
44%
36%
16%
40%
35%
46%
35%
41%
9%
2010
7. Lifecycle costs
51%
51%
48%
4. Bamboo
8. Fibre brand
43%
53%
38%
5. Rubber
2009
Don’t use
Key manufacturer features
6. Ceramic/porcelain
31%
31%
0%
7. Cork
29%
35%
50%
Warranties and Turnaround time tend to be the most important
8. Sheet vinyl
29%
27%
16%
9. Hardwood
27%
18%
28%
10. Area Rugs
25%
25%
49%
11. Stone
25%
20%
17%
12. Laminate
19%
16%
34%
13. VCT
14%
17%
10%
14. 6ft. rolls
13%
13%
42%
15. Broadloom
7%
5%
7%
manufacturer features and this year they tied, with half the designers saying these will make or break a purchase. Once again Custom Work lost ground. Make or
Added
No impor-
break a
benefit
tance
purchase Warranties
49%
49%
2%
Fibres
Turnaround time
49%
46%
5%
1. Nylon
25%
15%
14%
Sustainability
30%
62%
8%
2. Wool
15%
20%
59%
Custom Work
8%
59%
33%
Specification Process Wish List
Top Problems Improper installation remains the top problem, but it must be seen as an improvement at 30%, considering it was at 50% five years ago.
(not ranked)
The main designer gripes were focused on pricing issues, and lack of consistency in the provision of information; in these cases they were looking for standards. Sampling also comes under scrutiny regarding waste and sustainability.
2010
2009
1. Improper installation
30%
30%
2. Poor maintenance
20%
29%
3. Product quality problems
16%
10%
structure is ridiculous and that even with quoted material costs and
4. Slow delivery
8%
6%
an estimated installation cost, there is still no accurate way to predict
5. Moisture
8%
6%
price. Lower price is a perennial wish.
6. Inconsistent pricing
7%
7%
7. Bad product advice
4%
7%
8. Poor project management
3%
2%
Comment was also made on inaccurate samples and low-VOC adhesives not performing.
What’s in now? Colours – Neutrals top the colour trends with designers, reflect-
Open, realistic pricing of designs, with ‘everyone being on the same page’, and a better understanding of costs to help with selection on a budget are the main concerns. Most designers say that the pricing
Better information and universal terminology on products to be able to make better comparisons. More testing information required. Better sampling. Here the accent is on the environmental issue of carpet books being a waste – particularly with the advent of the Internet, although the websites must deliver quickly, including pictures, and with better online depictions of images, and more installations shown. Improved green: the main points are calling for a standard format
ing flooring’s support role in interior design, but this year they are
for green qualities; making recycling mandatory; more consistency
particularly trendy and more nuanced than ever, particularly with
and less cost in take-back programmes; improvement on quality and
a wide range of greys. Green is also strong; purples and red hit the
price points of green products.
bottom of the list. Patterns – Organic patterns continue to lead the trend, along
Other wishes on the list include faster lead times, better communication (more knowledgeable staff ), improved installation; the stopping
with contemporary, clean looks. Linear patterns are still favourites,
of contractors from changing specifications, and the elimination of
but natural look-alikes and circles seem to be out of favour.
false claims about no-wax floors.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
15
Focus on Domotex 2011
Hot new product trends
at Domotex 2011
Every year Domotex provides a wonderful showcase for innovations and new products, and 2011 was certainly no exception. Here is a selection of some of the ideas and trends which demonstrate the fact that the floorcovering industry is a mine of ingenuity, creativity and imaginative ideas.
1 Claimed to be the world’s first industrially manufactured hardwood
face design software, that offers a new ecological approach to the floor-
flooring with naturally curved lengths that follow a tree’s natural
ing industry. The timber usage efficiency is significantly higher than
growth, which means that no two floors are alike.
straight-board solid floors, resulting in more floors per harvested wood.
This truly innovative technology combines a scanning system for the
www.bolefloor.com
boards, custom-made algorithms which optimise the cut, and floor sur-
2
Introducing the next generation of resilient elastic flooring, this patented interlocking system is laid quickly, cleanly, and simplywithout the use of adhesives. This new collection includes 12 attractive wooden designs, each
For the first time, this company is launching composite parquet floors that are finished with high quality oil, to meet the demand for a 100% authentic look and feel. The oiled parquet floors are ready for immediate use and do not require any waxing or sanding. In addition to the enhanced natural and matt effect, this oil makes the floor more resistant to stains and scratches than other oils. These oiled floors are also very easy to maintain. A stain can easily be wiped away or cleaned with the maintenance kit. Combined with a regular clean using its proprietary oil care, the parquet floor is kept fresh and healthy. After a local or total treatment, light scratches disappear. www.quick-step.com
4
equipped with a 0,5mm wear layer and additional PU coating. www.windmoellerflooring.de A product innovation that brings together the natural beauty and strength of wood with the convenience and durability of vinyl tiles. It is a luxury tile solution uniquely constructed with a wood veneer layer and reinforced with a thick protective vinyl wear layer to ensure a long-
Wool is an eco-friendly product
lasting, extremely resistant and easy to maintain surface.
that provides comfort, durabil-
With a non-repeating natural wood design, it offers an elegant and
ity and easy care properties. It
highly practical solution for the high traffic needs of the retail and hos-
also has the ability to insulate
pitality sectors with simple and quick installation.
the room, reduce noise pollution
www.tarkett.com
and balance the humidity within
3
a location, plus it is non-slip, anti-static and flameproof: a very modern fibre. Flatwoven carpets are one of the trendiest products currently available, using combinations of natural wool, flax and jute. Also available in rugs. www.creatuft.be
16
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
5
Focus on Domotex 2011
These innovations in the realm of laminate flooring and adhesive-free One of the latest state of the art solu-
laying systems are regarded as having been developed as the new
tions is the introduction of a new
premium brand for the trade. Unusual laminate flooring collections will
locking system for cork floors, which
be created with the new brand, each of which will stand out for their
is a single action installation system
special characteristics.
with angling on the long side and a
The PoS presentations will be of correspondingly high quality. In
flexible tongue to fold the short side,
the company’s own shops or areas with special brand equipment, this
making it faster and easier than con-
product will be presented to customers in a noticeably premium look.
ventional locking systems.
The trend studies of the company show that customers are either
This is one of the most advanced
increasingly looking for good value offers, or something exclusive. The
locking systems on the market. The
new premium brand meets the customer demand for exclusivity.
flexible tongue inserted in the floor-
7
www.extravagant.classen.de
board makes it possible to install the cork flooring with a single action, and it is anticipated that this type of installation will gradually replace the conventional angling/snap and angling/angling systems. www.wicanders.com
6 10
The success of its collection with 24 water-resistant floors incorporating the Hydro Plus technology without bevels, has convinced this company to make this range available on bevelled products, with an elegant
10Less noise…more style with acoustically absorbent flooring that delivers excellent sound isolation. It muffles 20dB of sound in
micro-bevel on the four sides of the plank.
comparison with the average 4dB
This ensures there is no risk of seeping or deformation, so those floors are extremely suitable for high moisture rooms like the bathroom,
reduction offered by other types
laundry and kitchen but can also be used in the rest of the house. Dirty
of hard floor. That’s five times
shoes, kids trying to do the dishes, leaking washing machines.... no
less noise and five times more
problem at all !
comfort.
www.berryfloor.com
8
www.ivcgroup.com A wide range of tufted artificial grass that can hardly be distinguished from real grass; produced with high quality yarns, they are very durable and require very little maintenance. Ideal for gardens, public green areas, playgrounds and much more, artificial grass has become a real option in public spaces. www.orotex.com
11
Using the latest technology this company displayed its new Saxony collection that is distinctive because of its broad, colourful stripes combined with matching solid colours and trendy silk-look products Contract and domestic carpet made from polyamide presents an innovative product portfolio with the option to add any individual design. This new segment combines its strengths with innovation. The newcomers in the standard range incorporate the trendy silk-look aspect for a splendid presentation as shiny floorcoverings made from 100% Imprel polyamide and designed for heavy wear areas. www.baltagroup.com
9
Described as being a new dimension of floors, Italian design and creativity make this a unique and exciting floor with finishes in wood, stone, metal and natural materials combined with the resistance of vinyl floorings. Designed for areas with medium and heavy traf-
12
fic such as shops, showrooms, cafes, restaurants, airports and stores, this range reveals a world of emotions, styles and moods, guaranteeing very high performance and durability; it is also a floor that is easy to maintain and fast to lay, supported by all the certification required by current legislation. www.virag.com
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
17
Focus on Domotex 2011
Still hand in hand with the latest trends, this new laminate collection achieves simplicity and balance. This is reflected by the ongoing success of white floors for interiors, which has a feeling of satisfaction and creates trust, bringing calmness and hope in times of stress. With white ranges already on the market, 2011 sees a shift being made to a warmer shade of white, moving away from the cool effect. Within this context the importance of feelings and intuition is also growing and has led to emotional design, which means that sensual materials and structure that you can feel are becoming more important. This has been translated into a new range of planks in a unique size. www.quick-step.com
13
Water and laminate is not an issue anymore with the invention of the first 100% water resistant laminate floor. Because of its unique qualities, this product can be used for extensive residential and commercial applications where traditional laminate flooring cannot. There is a complete range of warm and cosy wood designs
14
with different finishings and matching skirtings, together with a collection of stone designs with the same look and feel as the wood designs. www.aquastep.be Here a new colour concept for its injection-moulded products is launched by this company with the creation of five new colour
With this new, eco-sustainable protection system this company provides a complete range of var-
15
ranges. In addition, a further function scale has been created for the company’s line of functional floors for sports and marine applications. Over 30 colours are available with each range being associated
nishes, oils, grouts and accessories
with an emotion and featuring colours that are harmoniously coor-
for parquet which combine perfect-
dinated.
ly with their innovative adhesives
www.bergoflooring.com
for laying wood. This provides easy
16
application and maintenance, and long-lasting protection, even for highly stressed parquet. There are six products in the system: a solvent-free water-based grout with a low VOC emission level for joints in wood floors treated with a water-based varnish; twocomponent water-based primers; and a choice of varnishes providing a high resistance to wear and abrasion, particularly those with intense pedestrian traffic.
wood looks. One range has nine popular wood finishes, and the other provides planks with nine rustic finishes to meet any commercial or home requirement. Quiet, hardwearing and easy to keep clean, these ranges are hypoallergenic; have an anti-scuff urethane finish; are suitable for underfloor
www.mapei.com
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The introduction of two new ‘long plank’ laminates with truly natural
heating up to 30ºC; very low VOC’s; and are provided with a microIn producing rectangular carpet tiles the company states that the
bevel edge for ease of cleaning. www.mflor.eu
buildings blocks of design are no longer ‘one-size-fits-all’. This col-
18
lection enables designers to ‘think beyond the box’ and the pattern and texture allows for thoughtful new proportions, enabling a wide variety of patterns such as weave, stagger, herringbone, brick, boxed in, half basket and basket weave. This means the tiles can be laid in more ways than ever, and whether you go vertical, diagonal, straight across, or develop your own design, the instructions are simple. www.shawcontractgroup.com
18
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
A 2011 collection featuring fascinating surfaces and unusual structures for these upmarket carpets and rugs, including a range that features a wide variety of material compositions, with the blend of various materials in shimmering deep pile, soft acrylic and colourful felt inlays creating exciting patchwork patterns with graphic decorative elements. www.arteespiona.com
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Focus on Domotex 2011
This flooring manufacturer brought its exciting new ‘active wall’ mod-
Described as taking new direc-
ule system to Domotex. This attractive addition to the accessories
tions in floor design and com-
range comes with added value for the trade. With this original, stable
pletely rediscovering the world of
profile system, flooring can now be installed as decorative elements
flooring, this company has devel-
on vertical surfaces such as wall panels, enabling floors and walls to
oped new freely-scaled carpet
be matched.
tiles – textile flooring with a spe-
‘active wall’ consists of top quality aluminium profiles into which all
21
cial new underlay that ensures
this company’s flooring - even of different element thicknesses – can be
that the tiles can be safely laid on
inserted. What is ingenious about the system is that its components such
slippery surfaces – an innovation
as coat hooks, hat hooks, shelving brackets and TV mounts can be used
so unique that it warranted its
to design not only smart wall panels but also functional shelving, coat
own patent.
racks and TV walls. ‘active-wall’ can be used anywhere in the home, and
The tiles can be positioned
creative ideas can be implemented fast in commercial areas, shops and
quickly, simply and flexibly to
exhibitions.
add lifestyle impulses to living spaces time and again. This new
www.witex.com
range is started with three qualities in a total of 16 colour varia-
20
tions. www.vorwerk-carpets.com Producing an elegant and durable ceramic-like surface, this new and innovative hard flooring has all the resistance and durability of stone and ceramics but is much faster and easier to prepare and install. With a three layer construction, it offers a tough ceramic-like surface laminat-
Intelligence and sustainability are focal points at this company, with innovative concepts, con-
ed to dense fibreboard (breakthrough technology) for ultimate stability.
23
This product is light to transport and its click system makes easy work of laying or replacing, so there is minimal business disruption for com-
stant technological advances and
mercial areas. It brings a wide range of traditional stone, wood and
long-range vision, both economi-
eye-catching contemporary designs to this new, strong and sustainable
cally and ecologically, being the
flooring, making it ideally suitable for shops and stores, hospitality and
elementary principles.
housing.
This approach certainly
www.tarkett.com
matched the big focus on sustainability noticed throughout
22
the Domotex exhibition this year. www.vorwek-teppich.com
24
Here is an easy-fix system for indoor floors or exterior wood decking that makes installation child’s play! High-quality rubber spacers ensure perfect installation and excellent ventilation of the planks, thanks to the innovative assembly system. This system required no wood padding, which also makes it perfect for restoring old decks and terraces; just lay it down and it’s completed!
Launched at Domotex last year, this product has undergone a slight name change for the brand with the addition of a new colour concept. These colours were previously available in board material, by which the furniture, walls and other interior components could be matched with the colour of the flooring. These 6 contemporary colours were launched in a long and wide board. (1800 x 160 mm) with an integrated underlayer in cork which provides a ‘solid’ sound while walking on the floor; the feeling and sound are comparable with a classical, fully glued down wooden floor. Moreover, this collection is also FSC certified and there is no formaldehyde added in the production process. This colour approach means that the name has changed with the
www.tilo.com
addition of Deluxe, as the availability of these colours is not exclusive for the original collection any more. The ‘Deluxe’ name refers to the fact
25
that this flooring is the masterpiece of the company’s collections and also 100% ecological. In other words you get a piece of nature in your home, without damaging nature. www.par-ky.com
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
19
Focus on Domotex 2011
Domotex highlights flooring trends for 2011/2012 According to Domotex, the 2011/2012 season
This design trend reflects the undiminished interest in a natural
will be dominated by four key trends that can be
flooring, for example, may feature irregular, uneven surfaces. Wood
look that appears authentic and hand-crafted. Parquet and wood
described as follows: the rustic vintage style; the
will have an authentic natural look and thus may be treated with
modern, romantic Scandinavian style; the new
– or even processed to create patchwork effects.
industrial minimalism; and the Global Spirit.
Rustic Vintage Style
natural oils, burnished, distressed or treated to appear roughly sawn In Hannover this year it was possible to experience vintage charm and authenticity, not just visually but in a tangible, haptic way. Instead of disguising the natural structure and graininess of wood, this style draws attention to its natural attributes. The rustic, authentic look of wood – for example, oak and old wooden floorboards – is integral to this unpretentious natural style. The same distressed, antique look can also be seen in laminate and resilient floorcoverings to recreate this style. The distressed, worn look, furthermore, extends to carpets and rugs, which may have faded or over-dyed colours, or appear to have been coarsely hand-woven – a look that is either authentic or achieved through realistic photographic printing.
The modern, romantic Scandinavian look
QUICK-STEP
20
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
STEPENI
Focus on Domotex 2011
Light-coloured woods – chalked, bleached, white and grey-toned
istic reproductions of honeycomb structures, crystals, computer cir-
– are intrinsic to the contemporary style of Scandinavian home
cuits and motherboards, as well as other geometric shapes, tend to
interiors. Colours such as warm skin and brown tones harmonise
be positioned to form random and irregular patterns, but this style
with shades of grey-pink and violet.
may also feature batik designs and washed fabric effects.
Carpets are chunky-woven yet soft, while other floorcoverings such as laminate, resilient and textile floorcoverings tend to be
Global Spirit
striped – sometimes the stripes are subtle and irregular. The sensitive interplay of colours and variations in the thickness of carpet pile, as well as patterns using colours of similar subdued tones, is characteristic of this style.
The new industrial minimalism
ARTE ESPINA
TARKETT
By contrast, industrial minimalism is more about a utilitarian perfectionism that is underlined by shiny polished surfaces or extremely matt surfaces to create new random and interesting visual effects. The flooring designs for this modern style are inspired by such images as raw steel, metal fencing and grids, concrete and industrial materials, and hi-tech motifs. Cool blues, as well as black, white and grey tones dominate. Stark stripes, geometric designs, computer graphics and photo-real-
The fusion of ethnic styles with Western industrial minimalism makes a new and interesting statement in which the vibrant colours of exotic lands contrast with the understated mono-colours of the Bauhaus style – brilliantly colourful but not garish. The richness and diversity of the patterns are fundamental to this style. For example, traditional Oriental carpets may be dyed, the motifs digitalised or combined with new geometric shapes or patchworkstyle patterns. Dark tropical woods are favoured or indigenous woods treated to imitate tropical hardwoods or bamboo. Cross-grained woods are put together in patchwork designs.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
21
FloorForum is a huge success Focus on Domotex 2011
Once again, the FloorForum 2011 event, presented in conjunction with the recent Domotex exhibition, was a great success in showcasing high-quality, ultra-modern carpets for the 2011/2012 season.
A
rranged in the display categories Nature, Classic, Tecno and Opulence, FloorForum was styled by the internationally
acclaimed designer Ulf Moritz and staged by 25 exhibitors, whose presentations offered visitors fascinating insights into trend-setting colours materials and patterns. For buyers from high-end home furnishing and furniture stores, retailers of floorcoverings, creative interior decorators, interior designers and architects, this ‘trend-show’ is always a source of inspiration for modern interiors and exciting design.
Nature (I go back to nature)
He feels that items in this category are always up to date, providing technical solutions with functional practice, dynamic coolness, a hi-tech look and new designs of high performance.
Sustainability and naturalness were the core values of this display
Classic (My home is my castle)
category; the designs are ecologically friendly but also address very
This category depicted sophisticated quality carpets that bring
human needs such as comfort, security and the sense of belonging.
immaculate style and a touch of class to the home. The superior
Idyllic harmony, cocooning and longing for intimate space are
materials – plus exclusive design and superb crafting – demonstrate
natural needs, and these were combined in this category with eco-
originality and consistent quality. These ‘comfortable’ materials encom-
logical sensibility, care for natural resources, sustainability, and the
passed exclusive originals that are statements of classic values.
authenticity and durability of modern floorcovering products.
Tecno (Look, I’m cool)
The luxury products here were characterised by their exclusive style,
Vitality, energy, and enthusiasm for urban environments gener-
idiomatic design and clean, modern look, but a hint of extravagance
ate unique and modern creations and epitomise the cosmopolitan
and unashamed opulence also added a feeling of frivolity and joy.
lifestyle of the exhibits in this category, which presented modern
22
Opulence (All I need is luxury)
Here were shown exciting, passionate and fantastic styles with an
patterns, vibrant colours, and hi-tech aesthetics that Moritz best
exclusive and playful flair, described as brilliant, luxurious, extrava-
describes as being beautiful, functional, funky and cool.
gant, dominant creations inspired by fashion.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Focus on Domotex 2011
Winners of firstever AWareness
1st
AW, a European manufacturer of broadloom carpet, announced the winner of its firstever AWareness Award at Domotex 2011. The AWareness Award is intended to be an annual award that aims to promote new design talent and raise awareness for the concept of ‘upcycling’: the idea that value can be generated from old and used carpet by turning it into innovative, beautiful new products.
A
s part of its commitment to sustainability, AW is helping to reduce the amount of carpet that is returned to landfills
every year but also making the industrial process more sustainable, and has decreased its waste by 22% since 2006 and its energy consumption by 15% since 2002. This year’s competition, in which 80 young designers from some of Belgium’s leading art and design establishments took part, attracted
2nd
a very high standard of entries, all of which were applauded by the chairman of the judging panel, Belgian-based international designer Stefan Schöning, for their creativity and, at times, ingenuity. The winner of the competition was the piece ‘Plof’, submitted jointly by Vincent Welleman, Yves Verhaegen, Pim Van Eijk and Oskar Vermeylen. Schöning said, “The piece is about ‘what you see is what you get’. It is a cool seat with endless possibilities in terms of colour, shape and usage.” The runner-up was another joint entry by four students, namely Nienke Ijpelaar, Mieke Keukelier, Stien Lambrechts and Elien Sockeel, and was given the name ‘Tapis Assis’. This was a versatile piece of fur-
we received for
niture made from the underside of a carpet treated with water-
this year’s award,
based resin compound.
it’s clear that the
Third place was awarded to Maghalie Dooms for her creation ‘The
design community
carpet disappears through movement’, a stunning fashion concept
holds these values
which tells the poetic story of carpet being used as clothing before
dear also. I look
slowly falling apart and disappearing through movement.
forward to a long and
“Each entry was assessed in terms of its originality, functionality,
3rd
fruitful relationship with
durability and feasibility as well as the actual proportion of carpet
Europe’s young designers,
used in the final product,” said Schöning. “What especially impressed
and to continuing working with
me, however, was the level of innovation in all the entries. The issue
them to help make our industry more
of waste is an important one for the carpet industry and I person-
sustainable, and more creative, than ever.”
ally take great satisfaction that so many talented young designers
AW’s commitment to sustainability and innovation can also be
have come together to present new ideas that not only address this,
seen in its product range, which now includes carpets made from
but do so in a fun and thought-provoking way.”
new sustainable raw materials such as bamboo and flax yarn and
Erik Deporte, AW’s managing director, commented, “At AW, we take the issues of environmental sustainability and creativity very seriously
combinations of these yarns with wool. The company has also recently launched a new ‘à la carte’
and the AWareness Award is just one example of how we put this
bespoke carpet service, further expanding the range of choices
commitment into practice. Judging by the quality of the submissions
available to the design-conscious consumer.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
23
Focus on Domotex 2011
Another great performance by Domotex
Domotex 2011 was bigger, better, and more trendy than ever before – and FLOORS in Africa was there
access to an extensive overview of the world market for carpets and
in the presence of editor Liezel van der Merwe.
floorcoverings, where they can directly compare providers and conditions while conducting concrete sales talks and discovering the latest
T
trends and developments at a single, concentrated venue.
so many South African visitors this year – more than I have ever seen in
layers, interior furnishers and painters, and this year more than 180
the past – and too many to be able to speak to them all, particularly as
exhibitors were showcasing products and innovations geared directly
I was concentrating on meeting various international companies and
to the floor laying trades, concentrated in the exhibition sector of floor
seeking the latest trends in all types of floorcoverings, which in itself is
laying, cleaning and application technologies.
otally impressed with the sheer size and enormous activity that this leading exhibition always commands, Liezel says, “There were
a daunting task given the enormity of the event.” The importance of this exhibition was reiterated by Stephan Ph.
This exhibition is always a firm date in the calendar of the skilled trades. Some 20% of all visitors are active as parquet recliners and floor
Domotex is much more than just a trends and information barometer: above all, it represents the global business platform for the interna-
Kühne, a member of the Messe Managing Board with responsibility for
tional floorcovering industry. 82% of exhibitors and 56% of visitors
Domotex who said, “A total of 1 350 exhibitors from 70 countries came
come from outside Germany.
to Hanover to display a raft of impressive interior decorating trends, featuring new materials, colours and patterns.” “Domotex 2011 was a complete success in terms of being a
The strong business focus in Hanover is underscored by the high percentage of decision-makers among visitors. Some 71% of all visitors come from top management echelons and 89% are involved in pur-
trends barometer and business springboard for the interna-
chasing decisions at their companies, so the organisers are proud to say
tional floorcoverings industry,” he said, “and business is back up
that only at this four-day show can exhibitors present their products to
again, thanks largely to the momentum generated by new trends
such a highly international audience, and locate the right partners to
and innovations.”
help them tap new markets and maintain existing contacts while laying
“The high level of interest demonstrated by our visitors and the readiness to invest among the wholesale/retail sector as well as amongst
24
Domotex boasted a plethora of innovations and highlights from the residential and commercial property sector. Here visitors had
the groundwork for global business relations. Anyone that is sorry they missed this spectacular event should
interior decorators, designers and architects has resulted in a highly
diarise the next one, which will take place in Hanover from 14 to 17
successful four days,” he added.
January 2012.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Focus on Domotex 2011
Road to Domotex
The competition organised by Van Dyck Carpets to give recognition to members of the Top Carpets Group for sales growth on Van Dyck products during 2010 was a great success.
“The winning team”
to Domotex On the train
rs’ with the ‘Vrystate rican flag flying Af h ut So e th g Keepin
P
rizewinners were presented with a great opportunity to visit Domotex, the world’s biggest floorcovering expo, and reflect-
ed the enthusiasm with which the competition was received. Prizes were awarded to the Best Performer that showed the best growth 2009-2010 (Per region); and the Best Performer Countrywide (Total sales). The Regional winners were:
Italian cuisine at its best
Johannesburg – Shaun d’Hotman, Top Carpets Alberton Top Carpets Kroonstad – Sarie Kotze Top Carpets East London – Ray Burbidge Top Carpets Tygerberg – Ryno Douma The Best Branch Award went to Top Carpets Athlone – Shafeeq Omar
o got Guess wh st girl the prettie
Manie Kriel of Top Carpets Vereeniging also went to Domotex as a winner from the Top Carpets Group. The Van Dyck hosts for this competition were Bernd de Smedt and Eric Ward, and Barry Hatch and Brian Hoyle from Top Carpets’ head office also attended. Bernd de Smedt says that this was a highly successful promotion, and Van Dyck Carpets will be running the Road to Domotex Competition 2011 with enthusiasm again this year. Van Dyck Carpets Tel: 031 913 3800 Toll free: 0800carpet (0800227738)
We left the g ood looking guys out of th is one
Website: www.vandyckcarpets.com
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
25
Focus on Domotex 2011
contractworld.award 2011 The winners of the contractworld.award 2011 competition came from Australia, the Netherlands, Austria and the Czech Republic this year, each receiving this prestigious international architectural prize in Hannover, Germany, on 15 January 2011, in conjunction with Domotex, the world’s biggest
The first prize in this category went to Wiel Arets Architects from the Netherlands for their V-Tower project, which is part of the Eindhoven industrial park. The slimline, 13-storey building is admired for its dramatic geometric lines. The visual impact of the interior is enhanced by outstanding views looking out from all sides. According to the judges, “the interior of the office building has a pleasing and positive effect which complements the attractive impact of the building on its urban setting”.
trade fair for floorcoverings (contractworld takes place every year as part of Domotex Hannover).
T
he chairman of the panel of experts judging the competition, Kim Herforth Nielsen, who presented the awards, said, “I found
it really exciting being on the panel for this contractworld.award. I was profoundly impressed by the number of entries and the high quality of the projects.” A total of 525 offices from the field of architecture and interior design from across the world took part in Europe’s most highly respected and valuable architectural prize (worth 60 000 euros). The award for innovative interior design concepts is presented to outstanding and trendsetting interior concepts in several categories: office environments; creative hotel interiors; innovative shops; and conversion projects. The main criteria considered by the judges were the quality, functionality and aesthetic value of the projects, as well as innovative
Category: Hotels/Spas/Catering facilities
solutions with respect to the treatment of space, materials, colour and
This category includes hotels, guesthouses, spas and wellness suites,
surface or texture.
restaurants, cafes, bistros, bars, lounges, clubs, casinos and canteens.
Category: Offices/Administration buildings This category covers projects including banks, insurance companies, government departments and local authorities, conference and congress centres, studios, workplaces (large and small).
26
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
First place in this category went to the architects’ office of Oskar Leo Kaufmann from Austria for their Alpine hotel, Ammerwald, which is located 1 100 metres above the bottom of a narrow valley in the
Focus on Domotex 2011
Category: Conversion Covering the conversions of buildings originally constructed for religious, cultural or public use, such as churches, monasteries/convents and railways stations, plus derelict industrial buildings which have been redesigned and structurally altered to serve a new purpose. Austrian Tirol. Whereas the façade is made of resilient materials suited
First prize in the Conversion category was awarded to the Vyšehrad
to the climate and the location, only warm, natural materials are used
Atelier practice located in the Czech Republic for its project Atrium D.
for the interior.
The inner courtyard of Prague’s Technical University remained unused
The judges’ assessment: “This project makes an outstanding
for many years before the architects transformed the 18x24 metre
overall impression: the simplicity of the materials, the outstand-
space, covering it with a roof to create a multifunctional, two-storey
ing realisation and attention to detail all contribute to the strik-
hall with an industrial character – a factory for producing ideas.
ing appeal of the building.”
The jury said: “What was once a redundant space is now an area
Category: Shops/Showrooms/Exhibition stands This is a category dealing with shop concepts, stores, showrooms and sales floors, exhibition stands, shopping centres and malls. The Aesop Stores project by the March Studio in Australia won first prize in this category. Aesop is a skincare company based in Melbourne, for whom the architects designed three quite original stores, each ideally suited to its regional context but equally appropriate for a company currently enjoying worldwide growth. Thus, the architects opted for locally sourced building materials, favouring recyclable materials at all times. The most eye-catching feature of the Adelaide store is a ceiling made from 7 500 ambercoloured bottles. The judges commented: “The Aesop stores are exemplary for the way in which they embody and convey the corporate identity of the company.”
of central importance to the university – it stimulates interaction between the students and is a crucible for creative ideas.” Finally, four special awards for avant-garde projects went exclusively to ‘New Generation’ architects and interior designers (up to the age of forty). A short list of new generation representatives from each of the main categories was drawn up. The winners were selected on the basis of live presentations which finalists hold in front of the panel during contractworld. Further information on the work of the ‘live jury’ and contractworld can be found online at www.contractworld.com.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
27
Getting further into green! Projects
Having recently changed their house colours to
green in order to present a distinctive new image to the market, it is perhaps fitting that Peter Bates Flooring was the selected flooring contractor for the new Nedbank Corporate Head Office Phase II in Sandton, which was the first building to be GBCSA Green Star Certified in South Africa.
B
y anybody’s standards this was a huge project with over 32 000m² of floor area – all based upon the Freestanding Type
DYEMENSION DYNAMIX
1 steel access floor system marketed and installed by Peter Bates, which is ideal for general office environments where the finished floor height varies from 100mm to 850mm. The all-steel Type 1 Freestanding System exhibits superior load performance and optimum strength, with the panel positively locating onto a aluminium head supported by a conductive gasket to provide a solid, quiet, and easily accessible solution. This system has no screws, making it ideal for easy access to the plenum, which for this project was 350mm deep to accommodate the required services.
DYEMENSION DYNAMIX
Peter Bates won the carpeting contract after a strict and competitive tender process, which included the provision and installation of the custom-made Nedbank Sandune carpet tiles manufactured by Dyemension Dynamics Corporate Carpet Tiles (Pty) Ltd using the Antron lumina yarn system. These 500mm x 500mm structured, textured loop-pile Dynabac loose-lay carpet tiles were developed and manufactured specifically for Nedbank in conjunction with their design team, resulting in a carpet tile which, in addition to being certified suitable for heavy-
SOLIDfEEL
contract installations and Greenstar – IEQ13 compliant, the tiles are manufactured in South Africa resulting in relatively short lead times required when re-ordering additional or attic stock. As a dedicated carpet tile manufacturer Dyemension Dynamix is totally committed to the attainment of world-class standards in
like VOCs in the required products, which meant that materials were send to international testing labs for certification,” he says.
the procurement of local content, manufacture and conversion of
However, good product selection, planning and strict controls
carpet tiles to suit the client’s specific requirements, from graphic
both on and off site ensured that the building achieved a 4-Star
tufting to printed graphics.
Design rating from GBCSA in October 2009, and a 4-Star As-Built rat-
The Dynabac backing system, used in the manufacture of the Nedbank Sandune carpet tiles, installed on this project comprises a
ing in September last year. With Clint Hastings managing the access flooring installations to
Greenstar compliant composite compound developed specifically
the East block, and Pierre Urtel being the carpeting project man-
for the flooring industry as a dimensionally stable, fully flexible car-
ager for this prestigious installation, Peter Bates Flooring scored yet
pet tile backing system.
another success in the corporate market, with the whole project
Marco Zornitta of Nedbank said the company set out to claim this
completed within the overall contract period of twelve months.
accolade right from the conceptual stage, but it was not without
Peter Bates Flooring
its challenges to ensure that it was the first four-star rated
Tel: 011 830 2350
building in the country.
Fax: 086 528 7502
“Most of the contractors, manufacturers and suppliers had little experience of what was required with regards to green star require-
28
ments – even to the point that there was no local testing for things
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
E-mail: marketing@peterbates.co.za Website: www.peterbates.co.za
Projects
Structural Movement Joint M.Trim has a range of locally manufactured and pricesensitive structural movement joint covers for floors and walls that may experience large movements.
FLOOR AND WALL FINAL SOLUTIONS
available through Kirk Marketing
Aluminium structural wall corner joint cover
T
Aluminium structural floor joint cover
he aluminium covers are anodised matt silver as a stan-
Aluminium structural floor joint cover
Aluminium structural floor joint cover
Aluminium structural wall joint cover
PVC structural movement joint cover
dard, but they can also be provided in any matching colour
on the powdercoat paint charts or anodised to another eight different colours as per the M.Trim anodised range. The PVC structural movement joint cover for vinyl flooring that is used for 2-3mm vinyl flooring allows for movement of ±5mm and is PVC-welded to the vinyl sheeting. Available in black and dark grey. The wall joint covers are in aluminium and are held in place with spring steel clips. There are two joint covers available – on a straight wall and on a wall corner. The wall joint can be 15-35mm in width. The sightline of these joints is 48mm for the straight wall and 40mm for the wall corner joint. The aluminium structural floor joint cover is available with or without clips in widths of 76mm and 106mm. Butyl tape is used with the joint cover without clips and is often recommended for those with clips, as it takes up the unevenness of the floor and prevents the possible hollow sound of the covers.
M Trim is a brand of PVC, brass, aluminium, stainless steel and anodised profiles used for tiles, carpets, vinyl and laminate floors.
Kirk also has a range of structural movement joints that will take horizontal movement of ±5mm and that have a 38mm sightline, for tile joints with depths of 13mm, 17mm and 39mm. A retrofit structural joint with a sightline of 120mm and
Quality Profiles for wood and laminate floors.
Quality Tile Cleaners,Strippers and Sealants.
a depth of 15mm is also available. The flexible PVC inserts used in the structural joints are available in black and dark grey and are either smooth (hospital insert) or ridged (standard insert). For more complicated loading and differential movement, Kirk recommends the Vexcolt range of movement joints. Whatever your structural movement requirements Kirk should have a solution; contact your closest Kirk branch, and they will be glad to help you. Kirk Marketing Head office 011 444 1441
Cape Town 021 949 2226
KwaZulu-Natal 031 564 1175
Port Elizabeth 0860 KIRKPE
Structural movement and expansion joints for floors, walls, columns, ceilings, roofs, car garages, bridges. Fire Barriers also available.
GAUTENG Tel: +27 11 444 1441 Fax: +27 11 444 1165 CAPE TOWN Tel: +27 21 949 2226 Fax: +27 21 949 4531
PVC curvable profiles for multishaped flooring. Commercial and domestic applications.
KWAZULU NATAL Tel: +27 31 564 1175 Fax: +27 31 564 1143 PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 0860 547573 Fax: 086 688 4980
E-mail: sales@kirk.co.za Website: www.kirk.co.za F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
29
Projects
Tile Africa Contracts supplied tiles and bathroom ware for the extension to the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, Gauteng.
Tile and bathroom ware for Birchwood Hotel
Umbria ceramic non-slip tiles
“W
e are proud to be associated with this development and to have supplied tiles for the interior and exterior as well as accessories for the
bathrooms,” says Craig Irvine, national manager for Tile Africa Contracts. The project entailed the expansion of the hotel by 215 rooms. Tile Africa Contracts supplied approximately 2500 sheets of rustic porcelain mosaics, Manchester baths, Sydney wall-hung and Gallery toilets, as well as Demola bathroom accessories including three-litre stainless steel dustbins for the bathrooms. “The mosaics are installed from floor to ceiling in the centre of the walls as a 300mm backdrop for the shower rose and mixer, in a contrasting colour to the tiling to create an interesting focal point and accent for the bathrooms,” says Diana Ford, owner of Delineo Projects, specialists in interior design and project management, and the interior designers for the extensions to the Birchwood Hotel. From the Delineo team, Allison O’Keeffe was full-time project manager on the project, assisted by Michelle Hobson as designer, and together they were responsible for specifying the finishes to the extensions. In addition to the mosaic tiles, Tile Africa Contracts supplied 4500m² of 330x330mm Umbria ceramic non-slip tiles in Burnt Sienna for the outside walkways. “On the walkways we used the Umbria tile which complements the wall colours chosen for the building and its neutral colour allows it to blend into the
Rustic porcelain mosaics for Birchwood Hotel.
beautiful gardens. The non-slip capabilities of the tile comply with the client’s requirements for a safe environment for the guests,” says Ford. With a national network of representation through the 37 Tile Africa retail branches, and the backing of sister companies Johnson Tiles and TAL Adhesives, Tile Africa Contracts supplies tiles, bathroom ware and specialist products for commercial and industrial applications on a national scale. “We offer an invaluable service to architects, contractors and specifiers, and the materials we supply are in line with local and international standards,” says Irvine. For more information on Tile Africa Contracts call 011 979 0327 or visit the website: www.tileafrica.co.za.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Sizzling specifications for fire station
Projects
The floor and wall surfaces of the Umhlanga Fire Station in Umhlanga Ridge, Durban, called for 2 000m² of very specific tiles that were successfully specified and supplied by Tile Africa Contracts for the interior and exterior of the building.
T
he fire station protects some of the region’s most valuable properties and high-rise infrastructure, including the Gateway shopping centre.
Durability and low maintenance were required of the floor and wall coverings, and the tiles supplied by Tile Africa Contracts met these specifications. Kerastar Themis, a full-body porcelain tile was specified for the interior floor. The tile comes with a 50-year guarantee from the manufacturer, Johnson Tiles in Greece, and boasts exceptional surface hardness, wear characteristics and chemical resistance. “The Kerastar tile was ideal as the floor tiles have to withstand the scuffing of boots and rubber-soled shoes,” says Craig Irvine, national manager for Tile Africa Contracts. Other tiles supplied include Desert Sand 300 x 300mm porcelain tiles and Silver Blue 300 x 300mm slate tiles that were applied to the exterior façade. The tiles contribute to the green building practices of the building as they reduce the maintenance and upkeep required. It was crucial that the tiles required no additional treatment or sealants once installed. The exterior and interior tiles had to be natural, durable and non-slip. According to the architects, eThekwini City Architects, the challenge was that they were looking for a maintenance-free product. “The purpose of using tiles was to avoid having the walls treated in future, as part of a new greening concept,” says Bruce Clark, of Bruce Clark Associate Architects, working as a consultant to the eThekwini City Municipality. The exterior blends in with the neutral textures of the buildings surrounding the fire station, but was not painted as this would require ongoing maintenance. The interior walls were painted to allow for upkeep as firemen return from call-outs with dirty clothing. “We have set a new precedent for the specification of tiles for fire stations in KwaZulu-Natal,” says Yvonne Dalton, architectural consultant for Tile Africa. Further information on Tile Africa Contracts can be obtained by phoning 011 979 0327 or visiting the website www.tileafrica.co.za.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
31
Insight
Access flooring The Peter Bates Group was instrumental in introducing access flooring to the South African market after the company was founded in 1973. We have since established ourselves as market leaders and trend setters within the African market. Our cumulative installation experience, project management expertise, infrastructure with sufficient resources, and 24 hour backup service has insured that new and existing customers continually turn to us for installations of any size and complexity.
Vinyl “Resilient flooring refers to flooring materials which have a relatively firm surface, yet characteristically have “give” and “bounce back” to their original surface profile from the weight of objects that compress its surface. Resilient flooring materials are made in various shapes and sizes including both tile and roll form and because of its durability, comfort under foot, aesthetic appeal, long lasting beauty and cost effectiveness is used in a wide range of commercial and residential applications.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Carpeting Locally produced soft flooring has developed tremendously over the years and the standard of quality, craftsmanship and flexibility from a design and fibre technology point of view has allowed locally produced soft flooring in either carpet tile or broadloom to become world class standard. With sustainability on everyone’s mind locally produced soft flooring products do stand up to the challenge that have been set by international standards from a sustainability point of view.
Wood laminate Laminated flooring consists of interlocking planks that is placed on top of concrete slabs, plywood, vinyl flooring and any floor finish that is hard and consistently flat. It is not fixed to any subfloor and for that reason relatively easy to install and cost effective. There are many different types of laminated floors with varying levels of quality. Hence it is very important that you purchase your flooring product from an appointed dealer with membership to the South African Laminated Flooring.
“Flooring at its best!” Since 1973 0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za
Insight
Renewed enthusiasm and
P
style for future growth
eter Bates, who founded the company in 1973, was one of the first pioneers to recognise the need for development of computer access flooring,
and set about advocating its use to everyone that would benefit from such a facility – in all sectors of the market. Access flooring was slow to become accepted in the marketplace, but the
Peter Bates Flooring (formerly known as the Peter
construction and IT industries have come to realise the value of provid-
Bates Group) has been servicing the Southern
ing an engineered solution to efficient office and computer management
African flooring market with great success for over
ever-increasing demand.
40 years, and has become a market leader not only in soft flooring but access flooring as well.
and operation, and Peter Bates Flooring is in the forefront of meeting this It is interesting to note that the first big installation (37 000m²) completed by Peter Bates in 1981 was for Standard Bank, which is still retained as a valued client by the company. (See the inset with this article that indicates some of the larger projects that have been undertaken by the company.) On the 1st of May 2004, the group changed hands and Peter Bates Flooring is now 66,6% black-owned, having achieved a BEE rating of a Level 4 Contributor. In addition, the company has excellent relationships with all the local manufacturers. Let’s take a look at the people that steer the ship:
Kevin Kwan, Managing Director Previously from an auditing background, where in he completed his B.Compt (Hons), Kevin joined Peter Bates in 1992 and quickly learnt the ropes of running a business which, he says, was very different from the auditing environment – not a From left to Right: Priyan Papia (Financial Manager), Michelle Barnard (Receptionist), Sheneen Adams (Accounts), Aletta Madau (Canteen), Jessica De Jeso (Creditors Manager), Stephanie Kok (Debtors Manager)
simple case of debits and credits! Kevin was appointed as an alternate director in 1996, financial director in 2000, and into his current position as managing director in 2004. “2004 was a watershed year in that we took over the company. Looking back it was a mountain to climb but, equipped with raw enthusiasm and a desire to succeed, we attacked the task at hand,” he says. “Now, six and a half years later, we can say we have pulled it off, but this is all due to the people that work for us.” Asked for an overview of the company’s performance, Kevin says, “Going forward we need to build on the qualities, integrity and service that have got us this far; we are never too old to learn but will never stop trying to be one of the leaders in our field as a specialist flooring company that provides the highest level of service to all market sectors through appropriate and well-organised resources.”
Contracts Managers from Left to right are as follows: Enoch Mbaso, Mark Lowery, Pierre Urtel, Amos Lushaba (back), Levias Mathonsi (front), Lance Ngobeni, Thabo Nyakale, Stephen van Tonder, Leon Botha, Blair Newman (back), Leon Ho, Gary Gutteridge
“We strive for excellence by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, encouraging the professional development of co-workers, and keeping abreast of both the local and international trends and technologies.” “Our cumulative installation experience, project management expertise, infrastructure with sufficient resources, and 24-hour backup service ensure that new and existing customers continually turn to us for installations of any size and complexity,” he says. “Furthermore, we offer a one-stop flooring solution and have dedicated project managers for all access flooring, carpeting, vinyl and wood laminate floor installations, which means that the customers, architects and designers have the advantage of dealing with one flooring contractor on their projects.” “Our strength also lies in continual innovation and market research, thus finding and adapting a product that suits the customer’s requirements,” he concluded.
Directors from Left to right: Graham Lowery (Director) Clint Hastings (Director) Kevin Kwan (Managing Director)
Graham Lowery, Director Before joining Peter Bates Flooring as a contracts representative in January 1997, Graham had gained several years of experience in sales and sales management within the flooring industry, which stood him in good stead as he progressed through the ranks to his current position as director of the company. Married with one child, Graham holds a Diploma in Public Relations. “I have always strived for the PKS way of thinking (People, Knowledge and Service), and this is my approach to overseeing all the general areas of the
34
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Insight
company,” he says. “This is some task, given the scope of the organisation, and includes procurement of work, client liaison, planning of work, material ordering and labour procurement as well as overseeing projects throughout the entire contract – managing staff dealing with carpeting and vinyl and wood floorcoverings.” Imported and locally made broadloom carpet and modular tiles have been an important part of the Peter Bates sales programme since its inception, providing solutions for a wide variety of applications ranging from casinos, theatres and entertainment centres, international-class hotels, offices for the major banking institutions, including many custom-made installations to meet the designs and demands of the most discerning architects and clients. “Resilient flooring is another mainstay of the range of products offered by us,” says Graham, “and this is in regular demand for the most exacting applications such as hospitals, public buildings, and even wellness centres – and we have specialised teams to meet these requirements.” “Laminate flooring is worth a special mention, because this sector of the industry is fraught with poor quality products and even worse workmanship, but specifiers and clients can be assured that through Peter Bates Flooring they will get only high-quality products, expertly fitted by our trained installation teams.”
Clint Hastings, Director
Front Row: Michele Dalgleish, Doret Botha (Sales Manager) Back Row: Gavin Scott-Wilson, Matthew Scott-Wilson, Roy Bates
“These revisions have brought about an enthusiastic feeling of progress and unity amongst all employees that will drive the company forward over the next decade,” Doret says. “With us the customer is always first, but this renewed pride in the company will drive us to provide an even bet-
The man behind the success of Peter Bates’ leading role in access flooring, Clint
ter service in the future,” she says. “Meanwhile, the new
has now been with the company for 15 years, where he has gained an exemplary
branding will create awareness within the industry and
reputation for his expertise in the field of access flooring.
the marketplace in general, with the new logo and house
Clint joined the company after seven years with the Anglo American Corporation where he completed his electrical trade, National Higher Diploma in engineering studies and his two-year AAC Learner Engineer/Management
colours emblazoned on all our vehicles, fitting teams, signage, and apparel for the salespeople.” Having gained Diplomas in Sales & Marketing and
Programme. He started the Floorcare & Maintenance Division at Peter Bates in
Business Management, Doret is now in her 13th year with
1996 before joining the access floor sales and contracting team.
Peter Bates, handling the estimating and tender require-
Clint progressed through the ranks and was appointed as an alternate director
ments for carpets, and working closely with new and exist-
in 2002 and director in 2006. He has to date specified, sold and successfully man-
ing clients during the various stages of new developments,
aged projects totalling over 700 000m² of access flooring, carpeting, wood, wood
upgrades and refurbishment contracts.
laminates and vinyl floor installations. One of his highlights was the successful project management of the temporary carpeting and floor finish installations totalling 145 000m² for the ten national stadiums and surrounding hospitality areas during the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.
“With a young, aggressive and experienced management team that is also paying considerable attention to the principles of Black Economic Empowerment, fair trading and added value for any customer, our sales team lives by one golden rule – Prompt and Professional Customer Service
“That was definitely one of the proudest moments of my career so far,” he says.
– nothing less,” Doret concludes. “Sharing our combined
“I’m now looking forward to new challenges in maintaining our market share and
experience and information, together with solid backup,
expanding our customer base not only through keen pricing but by giving unsur-
proves that there is no ‘I’ in ‘TEAM’ at Peter Bates.”
passed service and backup to all our customers.”
References of larger installations completed by Peter Bates
Although Clint specialises in access flooring, he carries a wide knowledge of
• Nedbank, Sandton – 52 000m²
most floor finishes and will gladly assist clients with pricing and in matching the
• Vodacom, Midrand – 24 000m²
correct products to suit their applications.
• MTN, Fairlands – 25 000m²
“As the nucleus of available work in and around Gauteng becomes smaller, we
• SA Reserve Bank – 18 000m²
have moved our focus to work on a national as well as a cross-border scale, as we
• Momentum, Centurion – 28 000m²
see more and more enquiries for our services in these areas,” he says. “Our goal
• De Beers, Ormonde – 7 500m²
now is to stay focused and motivated as a team, to build our base of clients in
• Outsurance, Centurion: 7 500m²
all aspects as well as maintain our current clients and workload.”
• Unilever, Durban – 14 000m²
Doret Botha, Sales & Marketing Manager
• City Lodge Airport – 800m² laminate flooring
Having recently undergone a complete brand revision with revised house colours
• IDC – 20 000m²
and name change, together with a totally focused sales team, Peter Bates Flooring
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital – 25 000m²
has entered the new decade with a bang!
• Johannesburg Civic Theatre – 2 500m² custom-designed
Managing these changes, marketing executive Doret Botha says that imple-
carpeting
menting new house colours of green and black is a significant move that will
Peter Bates Flooring Tel: 011 830 2350
establish Peter Bates Flooring as a bourgeoning professional organisation, and
Fax: 086 528 7502
will set the company apart from others.
Website: www.peterbates.co.za
E-mail: marketing@peterbates.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
35
Insight
High-performance coating for seamless floors Tile & Floor Care Super Coat is a high-performance and long-lasting solution for seamless floors that will beautify and bring floors to life. It is highly resistant to chemical spills and traffic. It is flexible and the gloss finish is suitable for commercial, industrial and domestic applications.
S
uper Coat provides maximum protection for commercial and domestic applications, which include hospitals, factories,
workshops, schools, offices, prisons, parking lots, commercial and domestic kitchens, building entrances, bars and lounges. Its premium solvent and resin bonding system is self-priming and will adhere to concrete, wood and steel to provide a long-lasting decorative finish. The use of the latest technology allows quick drying times, speeding up the application so that the floor is quickly in service. The resin system is weather-resistant and UV-stable and not vulnerable to hot-tyre pickup. Super Coat is also a high-solids coating that allows for easy cleaning. The product is available in 11 standard colours and 1-litre and 5-litre pack sizes, and there is a Clear Coat available for a gloss/ pearl effect. The 11 standard colours are: White, Black, Gravel Grey, Gun Metal Grey, Sandstone, Chocolate Brown, Terracotta, Go Green, Ocean Blue, Race Red, Spring Yellow. Depending on the required volumes, custom colours will be considered.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Tile and Floor Care
Tel: 011 822 6901
Toll-free: 0800 00 6173
Fax: 011 822 6902
E-mail: sales@tfc.co.za
Website: www.tfc.co.za
Insight
Quality plasticiser for Low-Cost Housing Pacaltsdorp in the Western Cape is the site for a low-cost housing development undertaken by main contractors Seakay Engineering, with T&T Concrete the official supplier of 25 MPA concrete and mortar to the project.
S
ika Plastiment BV-40 was specified by T&T Concrete for use in the ready-made concrete slabs as this high-performance
admixture will ensure a better quality floor and thus a longerlasting life span for the 904 houses which will make up the estate. Situated on the outskirts of George just opposite the Industrial area, the project started in July 2010 with the aim of erecting the first 90 houses before the end of 2010, and thereafter 90 houses per
important, placing conditions are difficult, poor quality aggregates are found, or in areas with high temperatures. Sika Plastiment BV-40 offers: improved workability without
month from February 2011. Another goal is to achieve 70% local
increased water, and reduced water without loss of workability. It
labour on the project; to date, 100% of the labour has been local.
helps to increase and improve surface finish strengths, reduces
Each house requires 6,6 concrete cubes per floor, of which 0,4% Sika Plastiment BV-40 will be incorporated for normal applications. This versatile and economical concrete plasticiser with set-retarding properties is a water-reducing and retarding concrete admixture. It is used wherever high-quality structural concrete is required and can be particularly useful in instances where exposed surfaces are
shrinkage and creep, and enables increased setting times at high temperatures. As it is chloride-free, it does not attack reinforcement. It is certain that with Sika’s robust Plastiment BV-40 included in their flooring foundations, these houses will see many families enjoying the stability of a happy home life, far into the future. For further information on Sika products and systems, visit www.sika.co.za.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
37
Insight
Get the conditions right for a perfect
F
urther to the full list of installation checklists provided in the previ-
porcelain and natural stone tiles will need to be grouted before the
ous issue of FLOORS in Africa – here is a recap:
installation is complete.
With the exception of ceramic, porcelain and natural stone floorcover-
design and the tiles used, and care should be taken to remove any sur-
ings, most flooring manufacturers stipulate that their products must not
plus from the surface as soon as the installation is complete.
be installed on concrete subfloors if the moisture content of the con-
Conditioning the floorcovering
crete screed exceeds 5% or approximately 20% RH (relative humidity).
Perhaps with the exception of the hard floorcoverings, all other flooring
Subfloor condition
If the moisture content is higher than 5%, corrective measures should be made before installation of the floor, such as the appli-
materials will need to be ‘conditioned’ before installing. This entails opening the boxes, undoing the rolls, or placing the vinyl,
cation of an epoxy primer as a barrier coating, or a synthetic mois-
wood or laminate in the actual room, or in a place in which conditions
ture barrier.
closely match those where the floorcovering will be installed, so it can
It is essential that the moisture content of the floor be tested with a hygrometer to ensure that the moisture level is below 5%, and it is recommended that a moisture vapour barrier should be installed. If
acclimatise to the ambient temperature. Pay particular attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations in this respect. Although many of the modern floorcoverings can be used as soon as
the moisture content is higher than 5%, corrective measures should be
they have been installed, others such as ceramic, porcelain, stone and
made before installation of the floor.
vinyl materials need a ‘curing’ period before they receive any traffic.
Most floorcoverings also require a smooth, level and clean surface
Once again, adherence to the recommendations of the manufacturer
onto which they are to be installed, and the screed must be of a good
is essential, and protection of the floor in the meantime, together with
quality and applied according to the relevant SABS standard.
keeping other trades off it, is a must.
Carpets may be a bit more forgiving of the evenness of the substrate,
An important part of any flooring installation is the accessories
but other coverings, such as wood and laminate floors, ceramic, porce-
that should be used. Many manufacturers have a range of suitable
lain and natural stone, need a flat surface and will suffer from impaired
accessories designed specifically for their product, but there are many
performance (even failure of the floor) if the subfloor is not level.
alternative suppliers for the essential items such as trims, edge trims,
To ensure that the correct result is achieved, it is recommended
skirtings, structural and expansion joints on large floor areas, profiles
that one of the proprietary self- levelling screeds be used. If this
for stairs, door openings, abutments and the junction of differing floor-
is not possible, the concrete should be checked for flatness and low
ing materials. These not only ensure that the floor has the maximum
spots should be filled to a minimum of 5mm in a 3m radius or 3mm in a
aesthetic appeal, but that it is equipped to provide the best service and
1,85m radius. High spots should be ground down to level, and a screed
working life possible.
applied to receive the floorcovering.
To get the best out of any flooring installation, the points to remember
With the exception of carpet and carpet tiles, it is very important that
are: don’t buy cheap – it becomes expensive in the long run; make sure
an expansion gap of 12-15mm be left around the perimeter of the floor
there are enough materials on site to complete the installation; follow
when installing.
the manufacturers’ instructions carefully; and use a reputable and expe-
Most modern floorcoverings are supplied with a factory-applied finish and require no further treatment after installation – this point should be checked with the manufacturer or supplier – but ceramic,
38
Grout materials are available in a variety of colours to match the floor
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
rienced installer. If you would like the complete series of articles please contact Madelein Smith on madelein@mediainafrica.co.za.
Insight
The Super-Engineered Suntups Wooden Flooring has been in the industry now for over 20 years and due to the continual movement in solid wooden flooring which often causes havoc with the floors during our climatic swings between the rainy and dry seasons, Suntups has created its Super-Engineered wooden floor and decided to stop providing full solid wooden flooring in the future.
T
he Suntups Super-Engineered wooden flooring has a 5mm or 6mm top face above the tongue that is equal to its solid counter-
part, which means that it has a lifespan equal to the full solid floor and can be sanded and sealed the same number of times. The benefit of the Suntups Super-Engineered wooden floor is that it is 70% more stable and, when laid in conjunction with the Elastilon installation systems (www.elastilon.com), Suntups offers a 5-year humidity failure guarantee. If failures are not caused by unnatural causes like floods, rising damp or geyser bursts, then they are generally caused by humidity and climatic changes. See the Suntups website for details of the guarantee and ranges: www.suntups.co.za. *Super-Engineered is a registered trademark
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
39
Insight
New National Sales Manager
are also seeing fantastic growth in
StonCor Africa has appointed Jonathan Starmer as National Sales Manager – Concrete Protection, who takes over responsibility for the entire concrete protection team which encompasses the full range of construction products (concrete repair, precision grouting, waterproofing and structural adhesives) and the concrete coatings range (Stonhard Resinous Flooring and StonChem Secondary Containment products).
Epoxy Novolac secondary contain-
J
products, heavy-duty industrial coatings, floor coatings, water-
our recently launched StonChem 658 ment system capable of handling both strong acids as well as caustic environments.” Jonathan concludes. StonCor Africa (Pty) Ltd is the South African operating company for RPM Performance Coatings, which has its head office in New Jersey, USA, and
Jonathan Starmer
StonCor companies can be found on most continents worldwide. Through the acquisition of Chemrite Coatings and Pro-Struct, StonCor Africa has over 40 years of history in South Africa, and its business model is centred around the provision of concrete repair
onathan is a qualified civil engineer with many years’ experi-
proofing and composite structures to specialised industries on the
ence in the sale of construction chemicals. His past experience
African continent as well as the Indian Ocean Islands.
in construction positions him well in being able to understand the
The company has been accredited with the prestigious and
industry requirements and problems that may arise, in order to offer
coveted ISO quality certification, having been assessed and certi-
the best solution for StonCor Africa’s clients.
fied as meeting the stringent requirements of ISO 9001:2008 for its
He says his main objectives in his new role are to reinforce StonCor Africa’s goal in providing “Low Risk Solutions for High Risk Environments”.
Quality Management System. The brands that StonCor Africa distributes command a strong market presence both nationally and internationally, and are well
“As a company we are growing from strength to strength in all facets of our core business and we are very excited about some of
respected and highly regarded in the various industries that they service.
the new products that we intend to launch into the market in the
StonCor Africa (Pty) Ltd
near future, these include a 4mm self levelling polyurethane screed
Cell: 079 887 2867
with a semi matt finish and excellent dirt repelling properties. We
E-mail: jstarmer@stoncor.com
BUILD IT. PACK IT. DROP IT. DRAG IT.ROLL IT. JUST BE SURE YOU HAVE A STONHARD FLOOR UNDER IT. At Stonhard we do more than create long lasting great looking floors. Through proven performance and comprehensive service, we solve the world’s toughest flooring problems. Our extensive line of seamless floor systems dramatically impact your bottom line by eliminating repairs and recoating and saving you valuable downtime. Chemical, impact and abrasion resistant floors are also safe and easy to maintain. We offer diversity of formations, durability and long lasting performance. And all from a company that doesn’t believe in a one size fits all approach to seamless flooring. That’s why 95% of our business comes from repeat customers incorporating unparalleled products and seamless surface custom designs. It’s always a great time to talk to us. Stoncor Africa provides solutions for all your flooring, coating, lining, fireproofing, concrete rehabilitation and structural system requirements. Industrial
Institutional Commercial
Stoncor Africa is a ISO 9001:2008 registered company
40
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
011 254-5500
www.stonhard.co.za
FLOORS FOR EVERY ENVIRONMENT
Insight
Only the best is good enough! Falcon Tiling was established in 2000 by Jan and Ruan Zeelie and a team of highly experienced technical and marketing family members.
Falcon Tiling Products specialise in a wide variety of products focusing mainly on the Tiling and Flooring sector of the market. We supply top quality products to the DIY and Professional market, and we have a full range of Tiling Tools, Tiling Profiles and Mosaic Tiles.
S
Tiling Tools
ince then the company has gained an outstanding reputation for quality products and customer service, supplying building
and construction products to both the retail and professional markets,
Tiling Profiles
focusing specifically on the tiling and flooring sector of the market. Falcon has an extensive sales programme that includes a full range of tools, profiles and mosaic tiles to meet the requirements of any
Mosaic Tiles
application, wholesaling to the tile and hardware market. Operating from offices and a factory situated in Golden Drive, Benoni, Falcon Tiling has technical and sales staff that is able to give specialist advice on any aspect of tiling and mosaics. The company has a division that is dedicated to the Craft & Hobby market – Mosaic Warehouse. Mosaic Warehouse specialises in an extensive range of mosaic tiles and related products, which enables the user to create artistic and decorative designs, with coloured, mirror and stained glass mosaics in a variety of formats. Traditional mosaic tiles are some-
GAUTENG Tel: 011 849 6651
PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 083 534 2826
KWAZULU NATAL Tel: 073 104 2395
CAPE TOWN Tel: 082 627 9862
times cut by hand to produce a slightly irregular look. Falcon Tiling
Tel: 011 849 6651
Fax: 011 849 8814
Website: www.falcontiling.co.za
www.falcontiling.co.za F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
41
Insight
Trusted functionality with a brand-new look
New SA sole agent for Berry Floor
L
Fotakis Brothers has been appointed as the sole
has announced that its products will now be hitting retail shelves with
agents and distributors for both Berry Floor and
a brand-new look. The new label design has a distinctive, strong brand
Alloc floorcoverings in South Africa, as from the
OBA of Germany – one of the leading manufacturers of floor finishing and floorcare systems for parquet, wood and cork floors –
identity, with the company colour, orange, becoming the defining element, and the LOBA raven from the logo increasing brand recognition
end of February 2011.
and product appeal. In the process of developing a new brand presence LOBA evaluated its labelling and decided on a complete redesign. The designers set out to create a product presentation that would, above all, strengthen the LOBA brand, improve visual presence at the point of sale and help customers find the desired product more quickly through an intelligently designed layout. The colour orange is as inextricably linked to LOBA’s core brand as its clever raven. With the new labels, the orange of the logo will now be the dominant colour on the retail shelf, giving the new design a distinctive and high-quality brand identity. The raven puts additional emphasis on individuality and symbolises LOBA’s position as a specialist in the industry. Enabling customers to find the right product at a glance, the new label combines the product name and textual information with a special colour scheme for the product groups and subgroups, as well as additional characteristic symbols, to guide the customer quickly and unerringly to the right Loba product. The dominant element, of course, is the product name, which is accompanied by the additional product information “gloss level/colour” and “application area”. Along with orange, as brand colour, an additional colour is used in the curved bar to differentiate between product subgroups, such as primers, finishes, wood fillers and special products. For example, the blue wave symbol and water lily boost the visual identity of the product group “waterborne finishing systems”. The other LOBA product groups use a similar combination of key visuals. For the user, this means finding without searching.
Not on the carpet!
and Alloc brands, Berry Floor has decided to appoint Fotakis
Brothers as distributors of both brands.
Given that Iran is regarded as a pariah and a threat to world peace
Belgotex Floorcoverings will therefore cease to act as suppliers of
by many countries within the Western world, it hasn’t hurt their car-
Berry Floor, and all matters relating to the distribution and servicing
pet industry! Take a look at this, extracted from FloorDaily.net on 29
of the Berry Floor and Alloc brands will be handled by the Fotakis
December.
Brothers branches.
“Iran exported US $365 million worth of handmade carpets in the
42
A
s a result of the international consolidation of both the Berry
Berry Floor is committed to growing and improving the brand
first nine months of the current calendar year started March 21,
in South Africa and believes that Fotakis Brothers is the perfect
according to the Tehran Times.
partner with which to achieve this.
The figure shows a 24% increase in terms of value in comparison to
Fotakis Brothers has procured the existing stock of the Loft and
the same period the previous year, the Islamic Republic of Iran News
Naturals ranges from Belgotex Floorcoverings and will be stocking
Network reported.
these two ranges to begin with.
The director of Iran National Carpet Centre, Faisal Mardasi, said that
There are further exciting developments and products ahead and
the value of handmade carpets exports could reach US $500 million
Berry Floor customers can expect good service for both brands from
by the end of the current year.”
Fotakis Brothers.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
YOUR FLOORS . . . . . . . . OUR PASSION
Contemporary Art of Flooring Quality, Workmanship, Responsibility and Service
carpets ceramic tiles decking laminates mats quartz stones solid wood vinyl
103 11th Street, Orange Grove, Johannesburg, South Africa Tel 011 485 5840 Fax 011 485 5760 www.hmflooring.co.za
Insight
Green vinyl flooring FloorworX is marketing the complete range of vinyl floorcoverings manufactured by Tarkett, including the new iQ Natural range which attracted a lot of attention at the recent Domotex exhibition because of its outstanding eco-friendly and sustainable characteristics.
T
arkett has always been at the forefront of innovation in the flooring industry, but with iQ Natural its customers get a floor-
ing solution that is exceptionally environmentally friendly with even more performance. iQ Natural is the natural choice for any commercial application, but is particularly suitable for the high-traffic and demanding worlds of healthcare, education, offices and retail. A major advance in vinyl technology, and environmentally friendly from raw materials to recycling, a new plasticiser, based on oil extracted from the plant Ricinus communis and added to natural raw materials such as salt and natural mineral fillers, increases iQ Natural’s total natural and renewable content to 75% - a breakthrough for the flooring industry. Even iQ Natural welding rods benefit from this plasticiser, further enhancing the natural finish. After installation, iQ Natural continues to work for the environment. It contributes to better indoor air quality with VOC emissions that are 200 times lower than required by European standards, and it uses less water, detergents and energy for cleaning, providing a surface that never requires wax or polish. And after a long and
44
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Insight
productive life, iQ Natural is 100% recyclable. IQ Natural is available in sheet or tile form in a wide range of attractive colours, and this product not only benefits from outstanding new features, it also retains all the properties and characteristics of the range to which it belongs. iQ stands for ‘Intelligent Quality’, and this really is the intelligent choice in homogeneous vinyl, based on a system called Unique Surface Restoration, which makes it possible to restore the surface’s original appearance and quality with simple dry buffing. No wax or polish – forever! In its manufacturing operation Tarkett uses renewable and natural materials whenever possible, with increasing the level of natural and renewable materials being the touchstone for new product development. The production facilities are ISO 9001 and 14001 certified and are independently audited for environmental risk, monitoring five key indicators quarterly: energy consumption; VOC emissions; waste; water consumption; and recycling. Tarkett also claims to have the largest recycling operation in the flooring industry. In 2008, the company diverted over 68 000 tonnes of flooring products from landfill. FloorworX Marketing
Tel: 011 406 4146/4150
Fax: 086 273 0905
Website: www.floorworx.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
45
Ask Denver . . .
Insight
With more than 50 years’ experience in the local and international flooring industry, Denver Coleman, Chairman of Polyflor SA, answers questions posed by installers, architects and readers. This issue’s question deals with hygiene sensitive areas.
W
e are in the process of designing a High Level Healthcare Facility for one of our clients. With so many options available, do we sacrifice looks and aesthetics for practicality and better performance? What aspects are important when designing and specifying floors
in hygiene sensitive areas, including ICU, laboratories and heavy traffic areas? What floor covering would you recommend? A. Du Randt, Architect (Randburg)
DENVER’S ANSWER:
stones, etc. A smooth carpet-like product, incorporating a scraper
Hygiene sensitive areas are a question when relating back to durabil-
fibre is suggested for the inside, and often the whole reception
ity, cleaning and then of course looks/appearance. Is there, a balance?
area is a good idea. Reasonably economical versions of this type of
Areas such as ICU, theatres and laboratories and similar come to
product are locally available from a variety of suppliers. Both these
mind. These are areas that receive a regular amount of foot traffic, but
matting systems will reduce maintenance inside the building and
hygiene requirements are at a higher than regular level. They are often busy areas and need to be sterile, yet the traffic in and out is hectic,
increase the look and life of floors. 9. When considering the design of the matting, the traffic walk pattern
more importantly, maintenance personnel are required to keep every-
must be taken into account, as people often approach the building
thing running and often contamination is created. Therefore the follow-
entrance from the side, thereby cutting down the footfalls on the
ing criteria must be considered: 1. Use of sheeting with correctly welded joins ; 2. A reinforced PUR-coated floor is advisable as it will reduce the incidence of microbial growth, eg. MRSA and E-coli. A good quality UV-bonded PUR will keep the floorsheet in good condition throughout its life. A good quality PUR coated product correctly
mat and also its effectiveness. 10.Importantly, don’t forget to protect the Delivery, Staff and Maintenance Staff entrances, as they are often a major source of contamination. Mats should be easy to clean in case of soiling and contamination and must be cleaned regularly to be effective. 11.Finally, after installation, a proper sanitizing process should be fol-
maintained will reduce maintenance costs by some 40 – 50%
lowed. Importantly, Maintenance Equipment, Chemicals and, espe-
(proven), thereby reducing the volume and use of chemicals when
cially, Methods must facilitate a more hygienic floor area, and should
cleaning, making it environmentally more friendly. Not all PUR
all be checked for cleanliness and good working order, to match the
coatings are of the same quality therefore be careful to choose one
quality of the flooring that is being installed.
which does not require further sealers ongoing. 3. Generally, coved floors at the wall are advisable together with wrapped/butterfly corners as it facilitates maintenance and sanitizing, and by reducing joints, therefore reducing microbial growth. 4. Cove formers and taper pieces to match should be used at door-
Old, dirty and poor equipment and methods should never be - used on good quality sheet flooring where healthcare is concerned. Dirty water and old-fashioned mops can spread contami-
ways to make for tidy finishing and allow less chance for corners or
nation rather than prevent it. Your floors should be easily cleans-
gaps where bacteria can breed.
able with a modern hygienic system.
5. Correct capping strips will seal edges of coves on walls to prevent bacteria collecting or getting in behind flooring. These should be the type that has a lip behind the sheeting and are therefore less likely to come loose. 6. The sheet material and, specifically the coating, should be durable, not require the continual addition of sealer/polish and should be able to withstand the use of sanitising agents and alkaline strippers, etc. 7. Any installation should have a custom-designed protective mat-
A good quality vacuum system must be used to clean matting- regular vacuums sold in retails stores will not adequately clean your matting, causing the matting system to cease to function. There are several brands of correct commercial vacuums available. - There are several highly competent maintenance companies that will suggest equipment and train staff to the correct levels. - Drains in Showers & Wet Areas: if any wet areas such as showers, laboratories, etc. are to be designed, there are special drains
ting system at the building entrance (Building Protection System)
that ensure the flooring is securely clamped to the drain outlet,
to eliminate dirt coming into the building. This will help to reduce
thereby eliminating the possibility of germ contamination, where
maintenance and infection. When designing this, it is more effective
flooring may have come loose, which typically happens when
to use as much matting as affordable in your budget, as it generally requires a minimum of 4 - 6 footfalls to remove all dirt and grit from a person’s shoes. 8. An open cell system for outside is advised to remove rough grit,
46
A final world of advice:
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
simply cut around water outlet. If you have any flooring question relating to design, installation, problems or commentary you’d wish to share with Denver, please e-mail him at info@polyflor.co.za with ASK DENVER in the subject line.
Insight
Several new appointments at a.b.e. Following the recent acquisition of the company by the Chryso Group, a.b.e. Construction Chemicals has made several new appointments.
T
hese include members of the a.b.e. executive committee: Mike Armstrong – Strategic Product Manager; Steve Rault – General
Manager: Resellers; Ian Hague – General Manager; Ronnie Govender – Financial Manager; Mario Marais – National Operations Manager; and Steven Montgomery – National Logistics Manager.
Other appointments include: Theunis Marais – Regional Sales Manager (Inland: JHB & BFN);
Brian Matthee has been appointed as Human Resources Manager
Stephen Rault has been appointed a.b.e.’s GM: Resellers.
Ian Hague is a.b.e.’s GM: Construction.
Steven Montgomery is a.b.e.’s new National Logistics Manager.
Ronnie Govender is a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ new Financial Manager.
Mario Marais is a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ new National Operations Manager.
Grant Batty – Technical Consultant (General Construction); Matthew Strydom – Warehouse Manager (JHB); Greg Underwood – Technical Consultant (Waterproofing); Warren Delaney – Concrete Technologist; Aleida Pretorius – Technical Consultant (Flooring); Elrene Smuts – Brand Manager; Michelle Fick – Commercial Executive; and Vesna Res – Personal Assistant to CEO. Cynthia Hoffman – Regional Manager (Eastern Cape: PE, EL, George). a.b.e. Construction Chemicals Tel: 011 306 9000 Website: www.abe.co.za
Chryso SA and a.b.e. enlarge Free State Operations As a result of the acquisition of a.b.e. Construction Chemicals by Chryso Southern Africa late last year, the two companies have combined forces to open a new branch in the Free State. Armand van Vuuren, Chryso SA’s inland commercial manager, says the new branch in Bloemfontein is more than double the size of the previous a.b.e. operations in the provincial capital, with substantially increased stockholding and warehousing space. “Chryso SA products have always been available in the Free State but the new enlarged operations will now mean that our Free State, Northern Cape and Lesotho customers will have more immediate and direct access to the full Chryso product range, and that there will also be increased stockholding space for a.b.e. products,” Van Vuuren explained. Chryso SA has already provided training on its own products for a.b.e.’s Bloemfontein staff, with Van Vuuren and other top technical staff based at Chryso’s head office in Jet Park available to provide more input if required. “Chryso SA and a.b.e. regard the Free State, Northern Cape and Lesotho as major trading areas with enormous potential for growth. Our new combined operations in Bloemfontein have been established to cope with increasing future demand,” Van Vuuren added. The new branch, which started trading in February 2011, is situated at 86 Fritz Stockenström Street, New East End, Bloemfontein.
a.b.e Construction Chemicals (Pty)Ltd. is a CHRYSO Group Company
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
47
Insight
NE
W
samples FLOORSMAG
Looking for samples? • Carpets (Broadloom & Tiles) • Vinyl cushion floors • Vinyl floor tiles • Underlays • Underfloor heating • Fitting accessories
For
service excellent SELBORNE
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CARPET WHOLESALERS cc
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Samples Brochures Specifications Technical information This will not only save you time, but you will be dealing with people of integrity who are marketing quality products and services.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
To get us started on your behalf, email us at
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Insight
Movement Joints, Expansion Joints or Control
direct sunlight is expected. For exterior installations, the range of temperature from summer highs to winter lows must be considered. So, why do rooms with more sunlight need more movement joints? The intent of the guideline regarding sun exposure is to recognise that areas that get warm (or wet) may experience greater amounts of differential expansion. If the areas exposed to sunlight are warmer than surrounding areas, movement joints should be used more frequently. If the tile surface is not appreciably affected, no accommodation is needed
Recognising that tile is a façade, movement joints
in the joint spacing.
are needed to eliminate stresses that can occur
movement joints more closely placed, not the entire floor if else-
between the substrate and the tile due to differing
where the floor is an even temperature.
amounts of expansion and contraction.
tion to temperature and moisture, such as continued curing of the
T
Only the area subjected to increased temperature needs to have
Many things can subject the laid tile to shear forces in addiconcrete substrate that can put the tile in compression; deflection
he Tile Council of America Handbook recommends allow-
and vibration of the substrate (particularly with suspended slabs);
ing for expansion and contraction in every tile installation.
seismic activity; changes in the plane of the substrate; location of
In small rooms, a gap at the perimeter of the room (often hidden by baseboard or shoe moulding) is sufficient. For larger areas, the movement joints will be visible. It is not possible to specify the exact location nor frequency of
weight-bearing columns; and type of tile or glass. Movement joints are filled with material that allows for contraction and expansion. For floor applications, urethane, neoprene or polysulfide is most often used in traffic areas and silicone some-
movement joints as there are many site-related conditions that
times where traffic is not a concern. Traffic areas require a sealant
must be addressed – but guidelines are offered in Detail EJ171 in
with a shore hardness of 35 or greater. All Smoothedge move-
the TCA Handbook.
ment joints use a high-grade urethane.
It is especially important to note that for interior installations, movement joints are placed more frequently when moisture or
Smoothedge Tel: 011 555 5360 Fax: 011 555 5378
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
49
Sustainability As can be seen from the lead articles and client
These concerns are reflected throughout the archi-
editorials in this feature, the heat is on to pro-
tectural and construction professions – with these
duce and install sustainable and environmentally
professionals seeking products and systems that
friendly floors, driven by world concerns over cli-
assist in attaining green building status and endea-
mate change and the need to preserve the various
vouring to ensure that they meet national and local
ecosystems.
health and building requirements in this respect.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
51
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
As can be seen from the lead articles and client editorials in this feature, the heat is on to produce and install sustainable and environmentally friendly floors, driven by world concerns over climate change and the need to preserve the various ecosystems.
Any colour you like as long as it’s
T
(With apologies to Henry Ford)
hese concerns are reflected throughout the architectural and construction professions – with these professionals seeking products
and systems that assist in attaining green building status and endeavouring to ensure that they meet national and local health and building requirements in this respect. Sustainable flooring is aimed at creating safer and healthier buildings together with guaranteeing a future for traditional producers of renewable resources that many communities depend on. Such flooring is best described as being produced from materials and processes that reduce the demands on ecosystems during its lifecycle, including its harvesting, production, use and disposal. With this in mind, this introductory article to our feature will go back to basics and look at the various options that are available to manufacturers and specifiers. The green issues have given rise to the sudden increasing interest in the materials that come from rapidly renewable sources whilst providing aesthetically pleasing and durable floors – such as cork, bamboo and linoleum, which have been around for a long time in South Africa, but are currently enjoying a renaissance because of their green properties.
Cork Cork flooring is made by removing the bark of the Cork Oak tree (Quercus Suber) which, if harvested properly, does not harm the tree; in fact, the tree would shed the bark anyway, as part of its natural growth pattern. Harvested every nine years, cork is a renewable resource that is naturally anti-microbial and anti-fungal, and because it has a unique cellular structure it retains its elasticity and performance characteristics for scores of years – even centuries in some cases – and is far better than chopping down a 50-year-old hardwood tree. Cork has excellent insulation properties that ensure minimal heat loss and a comfortably warm walking surface. It also provides excellent noise insulation, and is low in volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, although one should check on the type of finish applied. US-based flooring magazine Floor Focus has some interesting comments to make about the ecological aspects of cork: “When it comes to carbon sequestration, cork has a particularly attractive profile. Cork bark, harvested after nine years, makes up 4% of the tree’s biomass production over the same period. The carbon content, which accounts for about half its weight, remains in the cork for the life of the product. That rapid rate of carbon sequestration makes cork a more effective car-
52
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
bon dioxide scrubber than most of the flora harvested for product across
flour, and ground cork and provided with a jute backing. As
the world, with the average cork forest snagging from the atmosphere
someone once said, “As long as the sun shines and the rain falls,
2,3 metric tonnes of CO2 per acre per year.
linoleum can be produced.”
Here in the US, cork flooring is a rapidly growing product category,
These are all natural materials that come from renewable
and it is hugely popular in the designer-oriented contract market for
sources and are 100% biodegradable, in addition to which all by-
its captivating looks, high-performance characteristics and sustain-
products and waste is re-used in the manufacturing process.
able profile.
Linoleum contains no heavy metals and virtually no trace of toxic
The product itself is far more resilient than the impression one
material and is naturally beneficial to air quality. This means there
might get from fiddling with a wine cork at the dinner table. As an
is no lead, chromium or cadmium, nor any other environmentally
example, high-end cork handbags on the market reveal a texture
incompatible additives such as phthalates; chlorine; tar; formalde-
closely resembling leather.”
hyde; sulphur; PVC; and/or asbestos.
Modern manufacturing technology has ensured that cork floors
Because it is made from natural materials there is no off-gassing,
are now available in up to 40 different colours, and the relatively
and its natural bactericidal and anti-static properties reduce the pres-
recent introduction of printing design and patterns onto cork makes
ence of dust and dirt and the subsequent growth of household mites
this even more interesting to designers.
and/or bacteria, making it hypoallergenic and therefore often used by
Cork has one downside, however. It absorbs moisture, so it is not suitable for use in bathrooms.
people with respiratory problems or allergies. It is also fire-resistant and does not require additional fire-retardant
Bamboo
finishes, in addition to which it resists the buildup of dirt-attracting
Neither cork nor bamboo are hardwoods, and while cork is tree bark,
static electricity.
bamboo is, strictly speaking, a grass. The type of bamboo used for
Linoleum can be easily recycled, and although a floor can
flooring, Moso bamboo, comes almost exclusively from China, and
be expected to last anything up to 40 years, it will need to be
when it’s dried it is harder than most domestic hardwoods.
replaced eventually. Various options present themselves in terms
Traditional engineered and solid bamboo is harder than oak, ash or maple on the Janka hardness scale, and strand bamboo is harder
of waste disposal. For instance, linoleum can be safely added to landfill refuse sites,
even than Brazilian Cherry, so in terms of performance it is effec-
where natural decomposition takes place. Linoleum is fully biode-
tively a hardwood.
gradable and does not release harmful substances or gases such as
Although more expensive than laminates, bamboo is competitively priced with hardwoods, which has helped it gain a foothold in both the commercial and residential markets. Moso bamboo is harvested about every five years, which is how
chlorine and dioxins. As linoleum’s raw materials are provided by nature, and decomposition returns linoleum to nature, this is essentially the ultimate form of recycling. The recycling of other floorcoverings is usually
long it takes for it to grow 25-30 metres high and about 150 mm
associated with high levels of energy consumption, with very
thick. The wall of the stalk, by this time at least 25 mm thick, is used
negative implications.
in strips to make bamboo flooring, although Moso bamboo is also
Incineration is another common alternative for disposal. Burnt in
pulped and turned into a soft, strong fibre, increasingly used as a
an energy-recycling incineration plant, linoleum products produce a
textile for everything from scarves to socks.
residual calorific value that is comparable to that of coal (18,6 Mj/kg).
Like cork, bamboo is notable for its rapid carbon sequestration,
The amount of CO2 released during incineration is roughly equiva-
and when the bamboo shoot is cut and harvested, new shoots grow
lent to that taken up by the natural raw materials used (flax plants,
from its base, unlike, for instance, a hardwood tree.
trees and jute plants). Therefore, linoleum is a closed-loop system: the
Until recently, bamboo flooring came in only two colours, natural (a light straw tone) and caramelised, where the sugars are cooked to
energy obtained from incinerating it is roughly equivalent to or even more than that used in production.
darken it into a deep, warm hue. Increasingly, bamboo producers are
Regarding the design element, linoleum can be provided in the
staining it for broader appeal, and stained strand bamboos are being
most beautiful colours, created by using ecologically responsible
marketed to compete with less sustainable exotic hardwood species.
pigments that do not contain heavy metals such as lead and cad-
However, some bamboo floors are less sustainable than others. Most bamboo flooring is manufactured with adhesives that contain a urea formaldehyde resin, and although the higher-quality bamboo floors use natural-based adhesives with virtually no formaldehyde,
mium, and because the pigments are embedded in the structure, the colours do not fade. As the end product is provided in sheet form it is now regularly used by designers who employ computerised laser or water-jet cut-
lower-priced products can have formaldehyde emissions of around
ting techniques to create staggeringly attractive floors.
0,237 ppm, exceeding the European and American indoor air quality
Rubber
recommendations.
Rubber flooring is made from the resin of a rubber tree, which is a
Check the specification and accreditation of the product, and the
totally renewable resource, or it can be made from recycled auto-
credibility and integrity of the supplier before you buy or specify.
motive tyres. However, some rubber flooring is made from synthetic
Linoleum
rubber, which is not a sustainable product.
Linoleum has been propounded as a ‘natural’ floorcovering since its
Flooring can be provided in sheet form (10m x 1,2m), tiles or mats,
invention 150 years ago because it is made from dried and milled
with tiles being the easiest to install, particularly if they are of inter-
flax seeds mixed with other plant material such as pine resins, wood
locking design.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
53
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
The benefits of using rubber flooring are legion: it is resilient; offers
plastics, and it is completely recyclable and suitable for reuse as floor-
impact cushioning; sound absorbency; excellent slip resistance; resis-
ing but, although PVC tiles require less petroleum in their formulation
tance to heavy impacts and loads; resistant to spills; excellent durability
than other plastics, the chlorine extraction process is energy intensive.
and colour uniformity; is recyclable, and offers no health or environmental concerns. Rubber floor tiles are most commonly used in high-traffic areas where
superb performance in the most arduous conditions.
easy cleaning is a priority. For this reason, they are considered the ideal
Hardwood
choice for basements, workshops and garages. Some rubber floor tiles
Don’t run away with the idea that exotic wood floors are the big bad
have raised surfaces to prevent slipping, and these are ideal for areas
wolf of the floorcovering industry. Quite the reverse, when one con-
where water is a factor, such as on a patio, or in a bathroom, change
siders the longevity of the floors, their anti-allergen properties, the
room or shower room.
controlled forest environments in which the wood is harvested, and
Like other rubber products, rubber floor tiles come with a distinct odour that diminishes with time, which may make them a concern for those who are sensitive to the scent. In seeking more eco-friendly home options, many companies have
the other major advances in technology that make hardwood floors as desirable as ever. Dealing with afforestation and controlled growth patterns, the Forest Stewardship Council ensures that lumber comes from
begun to manufacture their rubber flooring in part or whole out of
sustainably managed forests. Dozens of types of wood, ultimately
recycled rubber, which can come from a variety of sources, including
producing hundreds of different shades and styles, are sourced in FSC-
old tyres.
certified forests in which the trees are regenerated, biodiversity is con-
While the idea of buying recycled rubber tiles is appealing to those who wish to use green products, the process of refining and recycling
served, and air and water quality preserved. Growing environmental awareness and consumer demand for more
rubber uses up many resources that may make the flooring less eco-
socially responsible businesses helped third-party forest certification
friendly than it appears.
emerge in the 1990s as a credible tool for communicating the environ-
In some cases, rubber floor tile is not the best option because of both cost and the installation process. Another option is rubber flooring that
mental and social performance of forest operations. There are many potential users of certification, including forest
is made in the form of large, roll-out mats that can be retracted when
managers, investors, environmental advocates, business consumers of
necessary or attached permanently with adhesive.
wood and paper, and individuals.
Rubber mats have some of the same advantages as rubber tile,
With forest certification, an independent organisation develops stan-
including shock absorption and noise reduction. Rubber floor tiles and
dards of good forest management, and independent auditors issue cer-
mats also have the advantage of being a springier surface than other
tificates to forest operations that comply with those standards. It also
flooring options with similar properties, making it easier and more
ensures that the wood does not come from clear-cutting operations or
comfortable to stand and move around on.
ancient forests.
Vinyl, PVC
This certification verifies that forests are well-managed – as defined
Of the other resilient floorcoverings, vinyl in sheet or tile form has its
by a particular standard – and ensures that certain wood and paper
own claims regarding sustainability: it is a thermoplastic and can be
products come from responsibly managed forests.
recycled and used again without any loss of performance. A vinyl floor can last for decades, and it has a low maintenance
Perhaps the biggest advance in natural wood technology has been the development of the engineered wood floor, which not
requirement, which means it doesn’t provide major demands on the
only reduces the demand for hardwood, but also enables these floors
environment once installed and can be used for years before it needs
to compete with other alternatives in the marketplace.
replacement. It is also the only plastic made largely from a non-petroleum source
This is achieved through its multilayered design, which has a 4mm top layer of the selected ‘exotic’ factory-applied to a stable cross-lam-
and, given that the manufacturers have reduced or eliminated VOCs
inated hard pine or poplar wood construction to reduce the amount
(Volatile Organic Compounds) from vinyl products and their manufac-
of hardwood used whilst still providing a solid natural wood floor, thus
turing processes, this is a major environmental benefit.
enabling more floor to be produced per tree, and reducing its environ-
In general, PVC creates a smaller environmental footprint than most
54
PVC interlocking tile ranges are increasing in popularity, because they are up to 90% manufactured from recycled material, and provide
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
mental impact in comparison to solid wood flooring – and it can be
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
FSC-certificated. In addition, the softer woods used in the multilayered
mable, entirely safe, energy-efficient, unobtrusive, and that add
construction are well-controlled, renewable resource products.
comfort and value to any building.
Although not available in huge quantities in this country, there is also
In terms of sustainability, underfloor heating is more energy-efficient
a case to be made for the use of reclaimed wood flooring, made from
than most other forms of room heating, and the modern designs mean
timber salvaged from old buildings or even trees removed from urban
considerably lower operating costs.
settings, and can be provided with an authentic antique appearance, or
Cleaning and Maintenance
as a modern hardwood floor.
Any floorcovering, whether in a residential, commercial, industrial or
Carpet
other environment, invariably represents a significant investment, and
There are many carpets made from sustainable natural materials in this
it almost goes without saying that a regular cleaning and maintenance
country, even though they may be imported. These include sisal, coir,
programme will increase the sustainability of any type of floor, because
wool, jute, and the exotic ‘Persian’ carpets.
it improves the workplace environment and considerably extends the
Several of the US carpet manufacturers have carpet ranges made completely from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) which is used in the manufacture of food and drink containers. This is sustainable and it reduces the material sent to landfill, and in
life of the investment. Such a programme maintains the value of the property and reduces the rate of depreciation; contributes directly to personal security, comfort and productivity; maintains the aesthetic appeal of the floors;
addition it uses dyeing methods that are less polluting and require
and contributes to the health, sanitation and environmental protection
less energy than other flooring. As an installed flooring it is sustainable
of the facility.
when used with eco-friendly adhesives, but some products may have toxic finishes, added to provide stain- or fire-proofing, that are not considered to be sustainable. As can be seen from this feature, local carpet manufacturers have
Questions that specifiers should ask about flooring products
made great strides in their production processes that result in energy and water saving management, ‘green’ backings and underlays, waste
- Does it contain recycled materials?
recycling and carpet reclamation.
- Does it come from renewable materials?
The reduction of VOCs has also been a concern addressed by the
- Are the products harvested and manufactured in a sound manner?
carpet manufacturers, and the requirements of the GBCSA Indoor
- Can it be recycled in the future?
Environment Quality (IEQ 13) in terms of these emissions are strictly
- Does the product have an extended lifecycle?
applied.
- Does it come from natural, eco-friendly and biodegradable
Architects should discuss the materials credits that carpet and carpet tiles can provide in the overall assessment of their green build-
materials? - Will it impact indoor air quality?
ing projects.
Acknowledgement and thanks are given to the following for information
Floor heating
contained in this article, together with extracts and data taken from previous
There is a floor heating system suitable for every type of floor, and
FLOORS in Africa features on this subject: www.floordaily.net; www.wisegeek.
they can even be supplied as a loose-lay fitment under carpets or
com; www.greenfloors.com; www.metafore.org (the website of the Forest
rugs on hard floors.
Certification Resource Centre); www.greenamerica.com; www.gbcsa.org.za
Modern technology has provided systems that are fully program-
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
55
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
With sustainability and the related environmental
What is a green building, and how does the rating system S work?
issues becoming increasingly important in the building and construction sector, the questions most commonly asked are “what is a ‘green’ building?” and “how does a building get a Green Star SA rating?” To provide the correct answers, the following information is taken from the Green Building Council of South Africa’s website www.gbcsa.org.za to which acknowledgement and thanks are given. imply defined, a green building is one which is energy- and resource-efficient and environmentally responsible, incorporating
design, construction and operational practices that significantly reduce or eliminate its negative impact on its occupants and the environment. Building green is an opportunity to use resources efficiently and
address climate change while creating healthier and more productive environments for people to live and work in. Specific green building measures include careful building design to reduce heat loads, maximising natural light and promoting the circulation of fresh air; the use of energy-efficient airconditioning and lighting; the use of environmentally friendly, non-toxic materials; the reduction of waste, and the use of recycled materials; water-efficient plumbing fittings and water harvesting; the use of renewable energy sources; and sensitivity with regard to the impact of the development on the environment. Apart from its impact on sustainability, there is a compelling business case for green building. Studies are showing dramatic increases in productivity among users due to increased fresh air, more natural light and less toxic materials, and tenants are becoming aware of these benefits. Demand for green buildings is growing rapidly, with tenants being prepared to pay higher rentals. Green buildings also have lower operating costs due to savings in utility services, particularly when viewed on a lifecycle basis. Also, they do not necessarily cost more than conventional buildings – it depends on how green they are; much can be achieved at low cost through clever design and basic energy-efficient materials. In general, green building is a more efficient way of developing and operating buildings and – in the view of the GBCSA, based on trends in other developed countries – over time will lead to the obsolescence of conventional building stock. It is now being seen as ‘future proofing’ buildings, and is being regarded as a risk management issue.
BRIGHTON EARTHSHIP CONSERVATORY
Green buildings can reduce their energy consumption to less than
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
half that of a conventional building, with similar reductions in potable water usage, and runoff to sewer and solid waste. By promoting green building, the Green Building Council of South Africa is certain it can have a really significant impact on resource consumption and on combating global warming.
What is a project registration and how much does it cost? Registering a building project with the GBCSA declares the intent to pursue certification under a specific rating tool (depending on the class
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
of building) and is the first step in the certification process. Projects should be registered as soon as possible during the project, although there is no deadline during the design or construction process. (Submissions must be made within 24 months of the practical completion date.) Part 1 of the Certification Fee (50%) must be paid to the GBCSA upon registration of a project, and a signed Certification Agreement (sent to the project owner upon registration) must be received by the GBCSA to finalise a project’s registration. Registration of a project should not be confused with actual project certification which is awarded by the GBCSA once a project has demonstrated its achievement of a certain rating level. Costs ranging from R30 000 to R156 000 are based on the gross floor area (m²) of the development and whether the applicant is a member or non-member. BCBSNC green building
To achieve certification, building owners submit documentation to the GBCSA which employs independent assessors to assess the submission and score the building. Certification is awarded for 4-Star, 5-Star or 6-Star Green Star SA ratings.
Green Star rating tools There are several rating systems in existence worldwide, including LEED from the US, BREEAM from the UK and Green Star from Australia. After a process of industry and expert consultation, the GBCSA Board
to hold the relevant knowledge and qualifications on green build-
decided to base the South African rating tool on the Australian Green
ing, rating systems and accreditation.
Star system, and to customise this tool for local use.
The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) continues to offer
The Green Star SA rating tools provide the property industry with
its unique Green Star SA Accredited Professional courses. This one-day
an objective measurement for green buildings and to recognise and
course provides a detailed overview of the Green Star SA green build-
reward environmental leadership in the property industry. Each Green
ing rating system and provides an excellent introduction to green
Star SA rating tool reflects a different market sector (office, retail, multi-
building.
unit residential and so on). These rating tools set standards and benchmarks for green build-
“There is a growing thirst for green building education,” says Bruce Kerswill, Executive Chairman of the GBCSA. “The Green Star Accredited
ing, and enable an objective assessment to be made as to how green
Professional course trains property professionals on each category and
a building is. The rating system sets out a menu of green measures that
credit in the Green Star rating system, and after attending the course,
can be incorporated into a building to make it green.
an optional exam may be written online at testing centres nationwide,
Points are awarded to a building according to which measures have been incorporated and, after appropriate weighting, a total score is arrived at which determines the rating. The objectives of Green Star SA are to establish a common language and standard of measurement for green buildings; to promote inte-
earning the successful candidates the designation of ‘Green Star SA Accredited Professional’.” According to Kerswill this designation is likely to become more important as major developers have indicated their preference for working with consultants who have attained this qualification.
grated, whole-building design; to raise awareness of green building
“The Green Star SA system is an environmental rating system for
benefits and recognise environmental leadership; and to reduce the
buildings – basically an assessment tool which certifies whether a
environmental impact of development.
building is “green” or not – and is based on the Australian Green Star
On a ‘closer to home’ note, there are some instances where floorcover-
tool which is similar to a number of international tools. It addresses
ings can play a small role in assisting the claimant to obtain a Green
eight environmental categories, including energy, water, materials and
Star SA rating, namely in the VOC credit (Volatile Organic Compounds).
transport.”
Details can be found, together with more information about the GBCSA
Validated for CPD points for architects and engineers, the next
and its activities, the cost of corporate membership, fees and category
round of courses take place on 17 March in Durban; 18 April in
classes, by making contact by e-mail: info@gbcsa.org.za, telephone: 021
Cape Town and 20 April in Johannesburg.
659 5990 or visiting the website www.gbcsa.org.za. However, green building continues to gain momentum in South
“The AP courses are becoming almost essential for those within the relevant industries who wish to ensure they remain at the top of the
Africa and is no longer only being practised by a handful of dedicated
green building trend. Having experienced overwhelming support and
experts, but starting to spread to the mainstream industry.
success from the industry, the AP courses will remain an integral part of
For anyone involved in the building and development sector, whether they are developers, architects, engineers, property managers, product manufacturers and contractors it is becoming increasingly important
the GBCSA’s educational offerings,” concludes Kerswill. For more info or to book for these courses visit www.gbcsa.org.za or contact 021 659 5990.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Eco-friendly resin flooring
Green Resin In today’s world the demand for green building
The environmental benefits of resin greatly outweigh those of conventional flooring such as tiles, vinyl or carpet. Because resin can remain in situ when shorter lifecycle floors need to be replaced
materials is high. Whether they are designed to
due to wear and tear, the uplift, removal, disposal and manufacturing
eliminate the buildup of waste in landfill sites, har-
be avoided. End-of-life Flowcrete products can be removed as non-
process involved with replacement or repeat installation flooring can
vested in a sustainable way or made from renewable
hazardous waste or simply floored over and reused as a substrate.
resources using natural technologies, specifiers are
or reclaimed materials as aggregates or base components. “At
increasingly considering the tangible eco-benefits
Flowcrete we’ve replaced stone chippings with recycled glass and
that materials can bring to construction projects.
Blitenthall. “This not only delivers a glittering finish but reduces the
A
Seamless resin also offers the most scope to introduce recycled
mirror glass in our seamless resin terrazzo system Mondéco,” says need for artificial lighting in the environment where it is laid, help-
lthough often overlooked, the floor is the second largest
ing to reflect natural sunlight.”
component of any interior design scheme and, after walls,
“Other innovations include deep-penetrating repair systems, light-
offers the greatest platform to install environmentally sound materi-
reflective car park decking, energy-saving underfloor heating, seam-
als. Step up, seamless resin flooring – now emerging as one of the
less stone carpets, floor screeds made from reclaimed materials and
greenest flooring choices for the twenty-first century.
floors that use MMA technology to make installation more efficient
“Environmental developments in the resin flooring industry have rocketed over the past decade,” explains Craig Blitenthall, sales and marketing director for Flowcrete South Africa. “No longer is resin flooring about harmful solvents, hazardous
and cure in times as preferable as two hours,” he says. The joint-free finish of resin floors also plays a vital role – making them easier to clean with hot water processes and reducing the need for harsh chemicals or cleaning agents. “Flowcrete floors can even be
chemicals and wasteful manufacturing processes,” adds Blitenthall.
laid to include Polygiene – a silver-ion based antimicrobial that is prov-
“Today we are developing floors made from water-based formulations,
en to kill bacteria including MRSA, C-Diff, salmonella and E-Coli.”
with energy-saving properties or containing recycled aggregates.” Flowcrete, which has commercial sales offices and manufacturing
Excellent green credentials are without a doubt the key for construction material manufacturers in the current climate. Offering
facilities in 29 countries worldwide, is an advocate of environmen-
environmental and performance advantages that help specification
tally friendly flooring for industrial and commercial environments.
professionals to qualify for Green Building credits, resin flooring may
For over a decade now, Flowcrete’s flooring systems have been
just be the smart move for eco-savvy building developers.
primarily solvent-free to eliminate the emission of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during installation. In addition, hazardous chemicals like Nonylphenol, N-Methylpyrrolidone and Bisphenol A have been completely removed
60
from its product offering to meet excellent air quality standards.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
For more information on eco-friendly resin flooring visit the website: www.flowcretesa.co.za Flowcrete SA (Pty) Ltd
Marketing Services
Tel: 031 461 3411
E-mail: southafrica@flowcrete.com
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Going the green way! T As a proud member of the Green Building Council of South Africa, Van Dyck Carpets is a local manufacturer that pays a great deal of attention to the impact its processes and products have on the environment.
he company is making great strides in the minimising of waste,
reduction of energy, reducing the use of hazardous materials, and reduction of emissions – with very low CO2 emis-
sions during normal operations. In addition, recycled materials are used instead of virgin materials wherever possible. Also, Van Dyck’s comprehensive recycling programme ensures the re-use of both post-industrial waste including production rejects, and post-consumer waste in the form of uplifted carpets, all of which means that these do not finish up in a landfill. All Van Dyck carpets have a volatile organic compound (VOC) emission rate below 0,20mg/m3/hr (much better than the requirement for Green Star rating of 0,50mg/m²/hr), which means no discomfort or irritation. No formaldehyde is used in the manufacturing process and, because of the anti-mould-growth, rot-proof and antimicrobial treatments applied in their manufacture, they have no microbial VOCs. Also, no PVC is used – in line with the PVC minimisation objective. Local manufacture reduces the impact of transportation on the environment, and in use these carpets have built-in thermal properties that assist with the overall thermal comfort and thus the reduction of energy requirements.
Oxygen range This is the latest eco-friendly innovation from Van Dyck Carpets. Manufactured with a top cloth made from a blend consisting partly of postconsumer recycled polyester (recycled plastic bottles) and partly of virgin polyester polymers, this is claimed to be the first and only carpet tile manufactured in South Africa that uses more than 50% recycled material. The Oxygen range has a backing made from 85% post-consumer recycled rubber (old tyres), together with a reinforcing glass scrim, which provides excellent dimensional stability. In addition, these carpets are very hardwearing and easily cleaned, and the flat surface of the product when installed ensures ease of maintenance
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
construction of Eco-Lay also has considerable anti-fatigue properties and provides excellent underfoot comfort. Most underlays are highly absorbent when it comes to fluids and spillages of any kind, which means that musty and unpleasant odours in rooms emanate mostly from the underlay and not the carpet. The Eco-Lay rubber underlay is not affected by spillages in this way; in fact it is totally non-absorbent and unaffected by moisture – even to the extent that flooded rooms can be dried in situ without the need for removing the underlay. Eco-Lay also has a Total Volatile Organic Compound emission rate of 0,1 mg/m²/hr (24 hours) and a 4-Phenylcyclohexene emisSHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
sion rate of <0,01 mg/m²/hr (24 hours), which means that these products easily pass the requirements for Green Star rating.
and excellent underfoot quality. They also assist with thermal and
Vision
sound insulation, and their very low VOC levels meet the require-
Vision is part of the comprehensive Tiger Turf by Van Dyck range of
ments for Green Star rating.
artificial turf and grass for sport and leisure applications. It incor-
Eco-lay – the ultimate in eco-friendly underlay
porates truly advanced, patented technology in recycling plastic
Eco-lay is Van Dyck’s own brand of environment-friendly floor-
bottles to produce a realistic and naturally looking grass.
ing underlays, manufactured from the finest quality recycled rub-
Using recycled material for the manufacture of Vision leads to
ber granules that are bonded together using synthetic rubber bind-
a reduced carbon footprint for the end-user and reduced landfill
ers to produce a firm, comfortable, high-performance underlay that
waste. With artificial grass there is no need for any irrigation, sav-
will not collapse. Apart from using recycled materials, Eco-Lay is in
ing water; no need for fertilizers and chemicals such as weedkill-
itself recyclable at the end of its useful life.
ers; and no need for lawn mowers – thus reducing electricity and
Once installed, most underlays collapse over time, which has a significant impact on the floorcovering by losing its support; how-
carbon emissions. Vision is ideal for any upmarket domestic, civil or commercial
ever, Eco-Lay products are not air-filled and therefore do not
landscaping application and the product of choice for anyone
collapse. The unique compound formulation used ensures that the
that cares about the environment, as this is the first and only
individual rubber granules are kept in close physical contact with
synthetic turf that is made of recycled bottles (from landfill to
one another to provide a strong lattice structure that is bonded to a
landscape).
non-woven polypropylene scrim. This quality underlay does not rot or harbour infestations of fungi
Van Dyck Carpets Tel: 031 913 3800
or house dust mites, and therefore can also help to reduce allergens
Toll free: 0800carpet (0800227738)
that are common in modern households. The smooth, soft rubber
Website: www.vandyckcarpets.com
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
63
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Committed to sustainable
The importance of building materials in sustainable “green” building
Tuff Floors (Africa) is essentially a PVC waste man-
The building sector is estimated to consume
agement and recycling company. 100% of the post-
between 40% and 50% of the world’s energy,
industrial waste they collect is compounded and
and increasingly the global trend is focused on
moulded into Vinyl Interlocking Floors, rather than
sustainable building practices, as these have a
ending up in our landfill sites.
really significant impact on containing
Turning Post-Industrial Waste into Interlocking floor tiles
T
hese floors are used in many applications and have proven to be aesthetically pleasing, strong and robust. The interlocking
designs often make it possible to lay the floors without the use of
CO2 levels which create global warming.
adhesive. They are flexible enough to be used over uneven subfloors and provide a cushioned surface that is more comfortable to stand and work on than concrete epoxy floors. For more information on Tuff Floors (Africa) please visit their website at www.tuffloors.co.za or contact them on 011 873 1292. Tuff Floors (Africa) cc SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
Tel: 011 873 1292, Fax: 011 873 3328 E-Mail : info@tuffloors.co.za, Website : www.tuffloors.co.za
N
ot to be overlooked is the effect that the manufacturing and use of building materials have on the environment.
In a series of presentations that will be taking place around
South Africa in March 2011, the Green Building Council of South Africa will be supporting and presenting alongside worldrenowned, award-winning Australian architect Peter Stutchbury who will be speaking on sustainability to professionals of the built environment. “Stutchbury, who is a founding director of the Architecture Foundation Australia and a founding member of the Australian Architecture Association, is extremely knowledgeable on sustainability and well respected in the industry. The Green Building Council of South Africa is pleased to be supporting these seminars where we will be providing an update on the Green Star rating systems,” says Bruce Kerswill, Executive Chairman of the GBCSA. The presentations, which are part of a communications campaign on sustainability from BlueScope Steel, will be taking place on 14 March in Johannesburg, 15 and 16 March in Cape Town and 17 March in Durban. For more information or to book, contact the Green Building Council of South Africa on 021 659 5990 or visit the website www.gbcsa.org.za. Alternatively, contact Andrew Slot or Yolande Mellet of BlueScope Steel on 021 442 5420.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Don’t get cold feet this winter! Winter is creeping in and nothing is more wel-
it’s economical. The system is concealed in the flooring, does not
come than walking into a warm home. If your
or ambience of the room – yet adds to it all.
home feels like walking into a freezer, ColdBuster has the perfect solution!
T
occupy valuable space, and never interferes with the interior style Fast-radiating heat is not only pleasant, it has a positive effect on the relative humidity of a room – resulting in greater comfort. Radiant heat also benefits your health – any moving air heating system tends to spread germs, dust, dust mites and pollen.
he exciting DIY ColdBuster Green floor range makes it possible to turn a cold house into a cosy, warm home. ColdBuster is
ColdBuster is slick, economical and dependable, and its biggest advantage is no energy waste – heat flows naturally to where it’s
presented in kits that include everything you need from the heating
needed. Controlling the level of heating that suits your lifestyle best
system to the instructions for installing as well as operating.
is made simple with programmable thermostats.
The magic of the ColdBuster range is that it can be installed
These thermostats can be programmed differently for each
under tiles, wood and carpets. The range also includes the
day of the week and automatically control the settings – even
RugBuddy – plug it in, cover it with your favourite rug and you have
when you are out and about.
instant comfort at your feet. All the systems – the Tile-Warm, Wood B-Warmer and Carpet B-Warmer, excluding the RugBuddy, are installed directly under the flooring, on top of the builder’s screed, as well as insulators such as green friendly natural cork. This contributes to the main reason why it heats up faster and why
If you are ready to experience the satisfaction of doing a project from start to finish in the freedom of working at your own pace – the “easy to install” ColdBuster range is for you! For assistance with the installation, contact the helpline number 0860 554 629 or visit their website www.coldbuster.co.za for further details, but don’t be left in the cold!
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
The CBS BusinessNet website puts this into perspective: “Environmentalism is no longer an issue of reluctant compliance with regulatory requirements. In the last decade, it has increasingly emerged as a potential mechanism for gaining competitive advantage and has become an important aspect of strategic management.” “Being environmentally conscious involves detailed attention to
Thirty years ago a report by the World Commission on Environment & Development (WCED) warned that current environmental trends threatened to radically alter the planet
a variety of issues, such as energy conservation, pollution prevention, and avoidance of ecological degradation. Our current levels of resource consumption and waste generation are unsustainable in the long run.” Green production is a business strategy any manufacturer should adopt, because it focuses on profitability through environmentally friendly operating processes, and is a sensible course to
and many species upon it, including the
follow not only because of the benefits for the natural environ-
human species. Time is running out!
to care, but also because of its fundamental strategic soundness.
S
ustainability and the protection of the environment are now rapidly becoming an urgent need, and the day is not far off
when tenders will be excluded if the goods or services they offer do not meet the acknowledged ‘green’ standards, products will need to conform to specifications that are based on these tenets, and end-users will think twice before purchasing anything that is determined to be unsustainable or wasteful of resources. In general the South African floorcovering industry seems to be doing its best to upgrade its production processes, avoid imported raw materials and goods that do not comply in meeting the environmental issues, and in structuring its distribution and installation processes to ensure these become as efficient as possible. There is no doubt that companies that wait until they are either losing market share or forced to change will find that this becomes an expensive exercise, and playing ‘catch-up’ often means the adoption of less effective solutions than their competitors enjoy.
ment and an aim to seek increased market share by appearing With ever-increasing energy costs, many companies have taken up the challenge of green production to reduce costs. Companies that take a proactive stance toward environmental improvements in production rather than ‘waiting until we have to’ have a considerable advantage over businesses that resist or disregard these new standards. Because adopting new standards takes time and money, they have more time to develop methods for reducing waste and can do so within their own schedule or programme. The use of environmentally friendly raw materials is of considerable importance in the greening of production processes. As Stuart Hart, director of the University of Michigan’s Corporate Environmental Management Programme (CEMP), says, “Growing concerns over depletion of forests and other natural resources, and environmental degradation created by mining and fossil fuel production, suggest that corporations may need to rethink their raw material and procurement strategies.” Significant sectors of the business community – especially large corporations engaged in the lumber and energy industries – continue to take issue with these views, arguing that resources remain plentiful. But many other businesses, citing the findings of both the scientific and environmental communities (or the internal data of their marketing arms), have begun to make changes in the ways that they gather raw materials for their products. Reliance on recyclable or renewable materials, new energy and material conservation initiatives, and ‘replenishment’ programmes (such as reforestation programmes) are all recommended as being effective tools in establishing processes that do not unduly harm the environment.
Small Businesses and Green Production Although most media attention on green production has been directed at the efforts of big corporations, increasing numbers of small companies have successfully established ecologically sensitive business practices as well. In fact, some small companies operate in regions or industries that are ideally suited to green production. For instance, companies that provide goods, equipment and clothing or services to
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Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
those engaged in outdoor activities such as backpacking, hiking, canoeing, camping and so forth are very careful to operate in environmentally friendly ways. Similarly, companies that operate in geographical regions that are very supportive of environmental protection may well publicise their use of green production methods and philosophies. The goodwill from the marketplace that can be realised in such situations should not be underestimated. Nevertheless, small businesses should carefully research the obligations that a commitment to green production entails before making any decision, as they may have difficulty securing the necessary financing to switch physical operations to a green production mode. Also, jumps in other operating costs as a result of changes to green production methods sometimes result in higher prices for customers, and subsequent drops in sales. While larger companies can usually shrug off such ripple effects with ease, smaller businesses are often less able to do so. But consultants acknowledge that green production methods can boost business as well, increasing sales while decreasing production costs. Indeed, proponents argue that for many small businesses – and especially new ventures, which do not have previously established modes of operation – green production can be a rewarding business philosophy. As mentioned earlier, many companies in the local floorcovering industry are implementing firm greening policies in their operations, and FLOORS in Africa obtained the following comment from companies that are proud to be doing so.
FloorworX
plant that treats all effluent to a pH of 7 before it can be dis-
Our Energy Conservation programme has been in place for well
charged into the sewer (approved by local authorities) and
over a year involving a number of technologies. Issues that are
also facilitates the precipitation of all solids in the effluent
part of this programme include the use of low-energy lighting
generated.
in all areas, production and offices, and low-energy motors in
This and all other solid waste generated is disposed of
production areas; process changes to reduce energy consump-
using the services of an authorised waste management
tion; and alternative technologies for making hot water.
company. The waste is chemically treated before it is sent to
FloorworX is also carrying out an exploratory exercise to determine the feasibility of using wind turbines to generate energy, but this is at an early stage. ISO 14001 Certification will be in place by the end of February, and a number of environmental objectives have been set which include the reduction of energy consumption, water
landfill. Certificates of safe disposal are provided to Flowcrete for every collection made. Flowcrete SA is making a genuine attempt to use fewer solvents, and currently has only three products that are solvent-based. All other products are classed as solvent-free. Sales and marketing director Craig Blitenthall says, “We
usage and waste; and the development of the property in an
are concentrating on the development and selling of prod-
environmental manner that enhances the work experience.
ucts based on waterborne and polyurethane technology,
Flowcrete As one of South Africa’s leading suppliers and manufacturers of
and approximately 70-75% of our raw materials are locally sourced, which helps to reduce our carbon footprint.” “Also, we conduct ongoing environmental, health and safe-
epoxy floorcoverings, Flowcrete SA follows the lead in sustain-
ty training to ensure that all employees are always aware of
ability and respect for the environment of its international par-
the impact of their actions on the environment,” he says.
ent company. Some of the highlights of the company’s ‘greening’ process are shown below. All Flowcrete SA’s 25ℓ and 200ℓ packaging is sold and
Finally, Flowcrete SA’s bulk tank farm has been bonded to ensure that accidental leaks and spillages do not enter the stormwater or sewer drainage system.
recycled with an authorised reconditioner, and all packaging
Acknowledgement and thanks are given to the following for
for raw materials used in production is reused until it is of no
information contained in this article: http://www.answers.com/
further use, and is then sent for reconditioning.
topic/green-production; the CBS Business Network; Andy Halls,
When disposing of waste and effluent Flowcrete has a small
FloorworX; Craig Blitenthall, Flowcrete SA PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
A superb
portfolio of Brown Sugar: A burnt caramel backdrop for clean contrasting with greys, metallics and whites.
Darby Brown: A nearly black clove brown; highlight with terracotta, orange, yellow and olive green.
bamboo flooring Now being launched in this country by Mintfresh Trading, the new Portfolio range of strand-bamboo wide-plank flooring from Teragren is claimed to be 154% harder than red oak and is a beautiful, environmentally responsible alternative to precious rainforest
Hewn Port:A handscraped high-gloss burgundy-enriched brown for highlighting colours of wine, lilac, cream and green.
Hewn Tawny: A handscraped and glossy golden brown for revealing accents of yellow ochre, gold, plum and light stone.
hardwoods.
T
eragren products qualify in relation to these claims because they are made with Optimum 5.5 Moso bamboo, a rapidly
renewable resource sustainably harvested at maturity between 5½ and 6 years, leaving the core to grow again. Also, the ASTM D1037 Janka ball test reading shows an average 3271; harder than red oak (1290) and North American maple (1450). The Portfolio range is available in a collection of ten designer colours and textures – including two hand-scraped options – and the new technology incorporated into the plank design makes
High Tea: A pitted and dark-flecked auburn to match with fresh greens, brown sienna and light neutrals.
Honey Ridge: A pitted and flecked dark honey that complements red, gold, yellow, blue and white.
installation simple and straightforward. This is made possible with the patented Välinge 2G fold-down, self-locking system whereby the planks just drop and lock in place for a tight, clean seam that requires no glue, staples, or nails. The Portfolio collection is manufactured with state-of-the-art hot press equipment, proprietary formulas, and an exclusive process where the bamboo fibres are fused with an environmentally safe adhesive under extreme pressure to form homogeneous, high-density panels. As a result, Portfolio offers hardness, durability and stability that is perfect for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings.
Midnight Black: A deep, calming black background for reds, cornsilk, gold and dark neutrals.
New Country: A rustic, dark-flecked and pitted golden sand that complements red, orange and brown.
The 7-coat German finish includes a wear layer of abrasionresistant aluminium oxide, plus two scratch-resistant, polyurethane topcoats that protect the natural strength and beauty of the bamboo fibres. Also, its finish is water-based and solventfree, and the adhesives used emit substantially less formaldehyde than is present in ambient air. Portfolio is also FloorScore-certified – one of the most rigorous air quality standards in the world – that ensures the quality of indoor air for high-performance applications and meets stringent standards for 78 volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Now it ensures the same high quality of air for the end user in South Africa.
Paris Black: A fascinating deep black highlighted with streaks of brown to complement colours of espresso, cocoa, charcoal and light grey.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Rich Cognac: A deep, sophisticated Old World brown to pair with wisteria blue, violet, brown and ivory.
Teragren South Africa Tel: 082 928 0393
Exclusively distributed by:
Contact: Sean 082 928 0393 www.teragren.com
Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Green Building
South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier reference source of highHandbook, is now available in Volume 3 for indus-
E
try and professional readers.
authors, academics and practitioners.
level Eco-Building knowledge, the Green Building
ditor Llewellyn van Wyk, in association with the CSIR, will lead the formation of a Green Building Handbook Peer
Review Board which will consist of leading industry researchers, The Handbook will continue to draw from new and existing chapter contributors who are leaders in their respective fields, but will now include a minimum number of peer-reviewed articles in each volume. This means that the publication can now be more widely recommended as a source of reference and as a learning text for related education institutions. Modules and Certificate Courses The Green Building Handbook serves as the prescribed textbook for the newly launched Eco-Building Online Learning Modules which form part of the CPD Certificate and Diploma Courses offered by alive2green. Readers who wish to take these courses may purchase (or download) the Handbook chapters, absorb them in their own time and then take the multiple-choice tests online. There are currently ten Learning Modules available for study: the first five make up the Certificate in Eco-Building Course Part 1; and the second five form the basis of the Part 2 certificate course. The Diploma in Eco-Building will be available soon and consists of content from both Eco-Building Certificates and an additional examination. Contact education@alive2green.com. Learners who wish to study for the Diploma in Eco-Building will be required to register and then complete the three required components of the Diploma within a period of 18 months. These three components are the two certificate courses and a final examination which is based on all ten Learning Modules that have been studied. The Green Building Handbook is part of the Sustainability Series of Handbooks published by alive2green and, for any queries on the foregoing or details of the online learning programmes offered by them, contact cpd@alive2green.com. CPD Credits for architectural professionals A strategic partnership between alive2green and SACAP has meant that the Green Building Handbook now offers architec-
SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
tural professionals even more learning opportunities that will qualify for credits.
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Feature Focus: Sustainabilit y
Saving costs and keeping your
matting systems Lack of proper maintenance is one of the major
Create a welcoming entrance Improve longevity of floor finishes Make cleaning more cost effective
problems with any type of floorcovering, and although the floor may look good to start with, unless regular cleaning and adequate protection is provided, it will soon start to look shabby.
T
he foremost protection against incoming soil and grime is access matting, but it is important to consider what type of
entrance mat to install. The size of the mat is important, because most people entering a building will not stop and wipe their feet and resume walking. It is for this reason that the length and width of the mat should be large enough to cover the entrance sufficiently to enable people to walk off the dirt. A dedicated area should be identified for an entrance mat. A recess at the entrance to a building is ideal as the lifespan of a mat laid into a recess has three times the life of a loose-laying mat. The mat suffers less abuse as it does not get misplaced. Regular cleaning of mats is essential as the scouring effect of loose dirt will reduce the lifespan of the mat. Depending on the amount of traffic through an entrance, a mat should be cleaned at least once a week by shaking it out or vacuuming. A large amount of a maintenance budget is spent on labour. It costs less to clean and replace mats than it does to strip and wax floors and clean and replace carpets, particularly in respect of labour costs. An effective matting system will save both time and money. Mats ensure a safer workplace by reducing dust, dirt and moisture which can cause slipping, and certain mats reduce fatigue and improve productivity for staff that stand on their feet all day, thereby cutting down on accidents and downtime. Matco offers an extensive range of mats in a variety of materials. To promote your corporate identity and create a welcoming entrance, why not consider having your company logo printed or inserted onto your access mat.
A variety of indoor and outdoor commercial industrial matting is available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; logo matting, entrance matting, anti-fatigue matting, change-room matting, food service duckboards.
For complete protection of your floors, contact the matting specialists at Matco who can provide an exciting range of flooring solutions. Matco Tel: 011 452 7961/2/3/4 Fax: 011 452 7965 E-mail: sales@matcomats.co.za Website: www.matcomarketing.co.za
Matco Head Office Tel: 011 452 7961/2/3/4 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 011 452 7965 sales@matcomats.co.za
www.matcomarketing.co.za
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Architects are upfront with skills
SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
The local architectural profession is based on the highest possible standards, and South African
improved their knowledge and skills by claiming 25 credits within a five-year cycle. These credits are earned in three categories as follows: Category 1: Development activities: for example, lectures,
architectural qualifications are highly regarded,
courses, seminars, conferences and workshops presented by SACAP-
with all validated degrees enjoying international
Architectural Learning Sites. Professionals must obtain a minimum of
recognised Voluntary Associations (VAs); or presented by validated
recognition through an agreement with the
one credit under this category every calendar year.
Commonwealth Association of Architects.
lecturing and in-house training, mentoring of candidates and consul-
Category 2: Work-based activities: for example, architectural work, tancy in specialised services. Professionals may claim a maximum of
T
two credits per calendar year in this category. he South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) is the regulating authority established by the Architectural
Profession Act (Act No.44 of 2000).
voluntary association, earning a post-graduate qualification, publication of articles, community work related to the built environment,
All South African architectural qualifications are subject to valida-
contribution to statutory and technical committees, attendance of
tion by SACAP and must meet the minimum standards set. Graduates
non-validated but relevant lectures, courses, seminars, conference
from validated Architectural Learning Sites (ALS) qualify to register as
and workshops.
candidates in accordance with SACAP’s registration matrix (see website www.sacapsa.com) Candidates undergo structured practical training for a minimum period of 24 months under a registered professional (Mentor). During this time, candidates are exposed to all facets of professional practice including attendance of workshops and seminars. SACAP closely monitors this phase of development which culmi-
SACAP-recognised Voluntary Associations (VAs) may charge a fee for validating Category One activities offered by the industry and are able to derive broader participation from their members. A list of VAs can be obtained from the SACAP website – under the CPD section. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) SACAP introduced the RPL procedure in 2006 to address the lack of access for previously disadvantaged individuals to formal education.
nates in candidates sitting the Professional Practice Examination.
The purpose of this procedure was to allow a person registered in
Successful candidates can apply to upgrade their Candidate status to
terms of the ‘deemed to’ clause, Section 42 (5) of the Act to upgrade
that of a Professional.
once to the next higher level of registration.
Architectural Professionals may carry out work independently, sub-
The requirement for upgrading was that an applicant had to
ject to the restrictions applicable to the various categories. However,
demonstrate that he or she had the prerequisite skills and knowl-
due to the ongoing development of materials, systems, construction
edge. SACAP is currently reviewing the RPL process to align it with
techniques, technology, legislative framework and global demands,
International Best Practice. Benchmarking was recently completed
it is imperative that Professionals continue to improve and enhance
and a new draft policy is in the pipeline.
their knowledge and skills in order to remain relevant. Professional registration is compulsory for anyone who is carrying out any form of architectural work, whether practising in the private or public sector. Registration must be renewed every five years in accordance with the Conditions for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) which are gazetted in Board Notice 31 of 2009. Professionals are required to provide evidence that they have
72
Category 3: Individual activities: for example, membership of a
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Detailed information about the Act, SACAP, CPD and all related matters can be found on the website: www.sacapsa.com, which also contains an online enquiry screen in the Contact Us section. Acknowledgement and thanks are given to SACAP for information contained in this article. SACAP contact details:
Tel: 011 479 5000
Fax : 011 479 5011
E-mail: marcomm@sacapsa.com
Training & skills development In US-based Floor Covering Weekly dated 13
skills? If the answer is ‘I don’t know’, let the red flags
September 2010, columnist Tom Jennings summed
go up and the alarm sound!”
up so neatly the reasons why companies should
“Can you realistically expect them to perform in a
pay attention to training and skills development:
manner in which they have not been taught? If you
“When discussing installers’ abilities, focus is nearly
are not making a consistent training investment
always placed on their hand skills. When was the
in all areas of your staff, can you logically expect a
last time that you invested in building their people
positive return?”
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Skills development and training will secure the future In US-based Floor Covering Weekly dated 13 September 2010, columnist Tom Jennings summed up so neatly the reasons why companies should pay attention to training and skills development: “When discussing installers’ abilities, focus is nearly always placed on their hand skills. When was the last time that you invested in building their people skills? If the answer is ‘I don’t know’, let the red flags go up and the alarm sound!” “Can you realistically expect them to perform in a manner in which they have not been taught? If you are not making a consistent training investment in all areas of your staff, can you logically expect a positive return?” “The realistic answer is no! You may not be paying attention, but you can be sure that your customer is. Always remember the saying “good enough seldom is”. Leading firms never are satisfied to just get by. This is an area of great opportunity to differentiate your firm from the vast majority of the industry.” In our view, this should be the mantra of every company involved in the floorcovering industry if they are to prosper and develop. The success of a company can be attributed to skills development of stakeholders and information sharing within the industry, and there is no doubt that companies that do not engage in staff training will battle to survive, particularly with the dire lack of skills in this country. In this issue we have taken a look at what training initiatives and skills development are being undertaken by industry leaders in the flooring sector, and what the various Associations are providing in relation to the needs of their market sectors. However, with a certain amount of confusion over the roles played by CETA and the restructuring of the SETA (Sector Education & Training Authority) organisations, here is an update of the current position. CETA – the Construction Education and Training Authority which is applicable to a wide number of players in the industry, including the flooring sector – was established in April 2000 after the promulgation of the Skills Development Act, No.97 of 1998 which aims to develop and improve the skills of the South African workforce. Its primary objective is to influence the course of training and skills development in the construction sector. Various
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skills development projects and learnerships are initiated with a view to developing a pool of skilled and motivated construction workforce whose skills are recognised and valued in terms of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). In accordance with CETA’s quality-driven philosophy, standards are rigorously applied, and it is accredited as an Education & Training Quality Assurance (ETQA) by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This ETQA status authorises CETA to accredit and monitor the delivery of training by Accredited Training Providers. CETA does not offer training itself. One of the tasks of CETA is to ensure that people who have acquired skills, but do not have the required qualifications, participate in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process. Learnerships are processes of training delivery, with new and challenging requirements, and the inset to this article provides a checklist developed as a tool for stakeholders who intend to get involved in learnerships to evaluate “company readiness” for implementation. The CETA details are shown below:
CETA Construction Education and Training Authority Dr More Chakane (Acting CEO) ceo@ceta.co.za Tel: 011 265 5900/5904 Fax: 011 265 5924/25 Dr. Thabang Matobako (ETQA Manager) qam@ceta.co.za Mr. Francis Lamola (Skills Manager) Skillsmanager@ceta.co.za Tel: 011 265 5912 PO Box 1955 Halfway House 1685
The SETAs In November 2009 Thabo Mashongoane announced that the Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET) would assume responsibility for skills development that had previously been controlled by the Department of Labour. In a statement he acknowledged that there were negative perceptions about the performance, management and governance of the SETAs; that there was an inadequate alignment of industry needs relating to the provision of training and skills development, particularly relating to artisans and technicians; and when the industrial policy action plan was finalised, his department would align skills development efforts to support the implementation of the plan. In November 2010, Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education & Training, gave a press briefing on the proposed new SETA landscape and a draft framework for a new National Skills Development Strategy to be implemented between March 2011 and March 2016. He also announced steps he planned to take to deal with what he termed ‘non-performing’ SETAs. In essence, the new SETA landscape will result in 18 of the existing SETAs remaining the same or having minimal code transfers; six new SETAs being formed as a result of the amalgamation of existing SETAs or sub-sectors of existing SETAs; two SETAs are affected by insignificant changes; with three affected by significant changes; and a reduction in the total number of SETAs from 23 to 21. Also, legislative steps are being taken to improve the governance of SETAs. He was also examining patterns of “mismanagement and non-performance” and would be taking action. Ultimately the aim is to ensure the SETAs are achieving what they need to achieve, and thus ensure critical skills development in South Africa at very least over the next five years. Meanwhile, the ETDP SETA (Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority), that was established in March 2000 to promote and facilitate the delivery of education, training and development in order to enhance the skills profile of the ETD (Education, Training and Development) sector and contribute to the creation of employment opportunities especially for those previously disadvantaged, has been re-established for the period 2011 – 2016. This was recently announced by DHET Minister Dr Blade Nzimande, and the ETDP SETA is one of 18 that have been re-established with no changes. The ETDP SETA has again received a clean audit from the Auditor General
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for the tenth year running, as reflected in the 2009/10 Annual Report. This is indicative of the ETDP SETA’s commitment to delivering on its skills development mandate while also ensuring strict financial controls. But what is happening within the South African flooring industry?
Belgotex Floorcoverings Over the past few years the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy has provided an extensive programme of skills development, running detailed courses throughout the country with particular emphasis on performance enhancement, from which scores of participants have benefitted. (see separate programme in this issue). These courses cover technical selling and floorcovering installations (carpeting, Sportec rubber, Duraturf grass, Hartsfield vinyl planks and soft cusion vinyl) and an overview of the speciality products marketed by the company.
FloorworX FloorworX has also been in the forefront of customer and staff training for a number of years and once again they have a full schedule of training conducted by leading experts in their fields, to be held at its training centre throughout the year (see separate programme in this issue). The training includes floor preparation for vinyl tiles and sheeting for beginners, intermediate and advanced flooring operatives; practical instruction on installing laminate and natural wood floors, and an overview of flooring products involved with sanding and sealing techniques. Marketing manager Theresa Venter says, “Established flooring contractors can send their staff to these courses at no charge, but they are much in demand, so booking is essential.”
Numatic “In developing and manufacturing high-quality products we have gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise, but only through sharing our knowledge to empower individuals do we give meaning to our products and company,” says sales manager Janine Botha. Numatic is a keen supporter of the B-BBEE initiatives, and is committed to comply with these standards based on the Codes of Good Practice on Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment – having gained Compliance Level 4 with a recognition factor of 100% (Classification QSE) and a total score of 67,3. In addition, the partnership with 3M has enabled Numatic to enhance its own skills training programmes, which in this case take the form of structured, planned programmes held at its Training Centre in Johannesburg, as well as informal on-site training as required. These programmes, for Numatic staff and distributors and the staff of major customers, are intensive and comprehensive and those that accomplish all the requirements of these courses are provided with a Numatic certificate of competence.
Kevin Bates Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting is the only flooring contractor to date to have registered installers for the floorcovering learnership with CETA.
PHOTOS: Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting
Thirty learners were registered in 2009 and it is anticipated that 26 of the learners will
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complete their qualification by the end of June 2011. The training has been carried out by Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting, and an accredited training provider, Tjeka Training Matters. The theoretical unit standards have all been completed and all learners are now busy with on-site assessments and written examinations covering the practical aspects of installation. Chief Financial Officer Neil Duncan says, “It is hoped, following the recent amalgamation of Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting in Johannesburg with Albert Carpets in Cape Town, that the group will be able to extend its training programme to installers in Cape Town as well. This may be possible with the assistance of project finance from CETA for training of flooring installers.”
Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s D e v e l o p m e n t
Tjeka Training Matters
The first level students also receive product training on Johnson Tiles
With its head office in Cape Town and regional branches in Krugersdorp
and TAL products, and the programme assists the trainees to become
and Vaal Triangle, Tjeka Training Matters is an organisation with specific
entrepreneurs by teaching them the skills needed to become self
training and entrepreneurial development focus in the building and
employed and run their own tiling businesses.
civil engineering construction industries, and is currently handling the training for Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting. The company was established in March 2000 by a group of training facilitators with a total of 250 years of construction industry training experience, and previously disadvantaged individuals now have 79% shareholding and 66% board of director representation. Training is conducted through mobile units whereby accredited training is conducted on the project as well as accredited institutionalised training in both the building and civil construction industries. Learnerships in the National Certificate in Construction: Installation of
Norcros provides all the learning materials and the learners receive a certificate of competence from Unique Training Solutions upon completion of the course which allows them to take their trade test. Each learner also receives a complete tool kit upon graduation. Editor’s note: We would like to hear from other companies that have embarked upon their own training programmes. Send full details to FLOORS in Africa and we will publish this information in a future issue. Acknowledgement and thanks are given to the following for information contained in the provision of this article: www.floordaily.net; Neil Duncan of Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting; www.floorworx.co.za; www.numatic.
Flooring (NQF 1 & NQF 2), covers the theory and installation of all types
co.za; Eric Goddard of TT Services; Frans Toua of Tjeka Training Matters;
of floorcovering – including stretch carpet, carpet tiles, vinyl tiles, vinyl
Gela Ohl, Norcros SA.
sheeting, solid wood and wood laminate floors.
Norcros SA
Checklist for learnership ‘readiness’
The Norcros Tiling Academy in Olifantsfontein opened its doors in
Is the organisation accredited as a workplace learning site with
September 2006, and is the first institution of its kind to offer training
CETA, or have you applied for accreditation? (Application forms
for tilers in South Africa’s construction industry. Previously unem-
available from CETA’s website www.ceta.co.za).
ployed people are being trained as tilers at the Academy, thereby equipping them with a marketable skill. Since its inception 120 peo-
Have you identified a person and/or a project team responsible
ple have been trained by the Academy.
for implementing learnerships in your organisation?
The training programme consists of a 10-week theoretical and practical unit on standard based skills. This training programme is largely
Does this person have the necessary capacity and resources to
funded by Norcros, with Unique Training Solutions as the appointed
manage the implementation of learnerships?
service provider. Twelve learners are selected for each intake, and they are required to have completed matric which includes English
Can you motivate the need for the identified learnerships?
and mathematics. Learners partaking in the skills programme are trained to render basic first aid, apply health and safety standards to a work area; pro-
Have you estimated the costs of implementation of learnerships?
cure materials, tools and equipment; calculate construction quantities to develop a work plan; erect, use and dismantle access equipment;
Do you have a Training Committee (representative of labour and
plaster walls and screed floors; plan and prepare to tile; apply tiles
employer) that you consult with regarding learnership imple-
to plastered surfaces and plaster walls; screed a floor and steps; and
mentation?
monitor a job. PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
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Training & aftercare As a world leader in building materials, Lafarge holds top-ranking positions in each of its four Business Units: Cement; Readymix; Aggregates; and Gypsum, which are more than ably marketed and Polished grey concrete around the Moses Mabida Stadium
serviced throughout Southern Africa by its local subsidiary, Lafarge South Africa.
officially launched in South Africa. Lafarge supplies the concrete and the Approved Applicators provide the quotes to the customers and are responsible for the finished product. Every year we have at least three training sessions, mainly in Gauteng, Cape Town and Durban as well as in other areas in the country – depending on the demand. How many people can participate each time? We try to keep the group as small as possible for interaction, the biggest group being 12 people from not more than 3 companies. What do the courses cover? The training is held over two days, the first day being theory in basic concrete placing, curing and finishing, and we also inform trainees about our marketing tools and strategy. The second day includes the actual application as well as visiting nearby completed projects. Our Technical Department, Marketing Department as well as an Approved Applicator are the people providing the training. Who is allowed to undertake training? (Only your staff; customers’ Durbanville Church, Artevia Exposed using sandstone pigment for walkways and in steps
Artevia
78
staff; general public?). The training is open to people who have some background in concrete and would like to increase their product offering in the market. Our new staff members also go through the training programme.
Artevia’s exciting patterns and textures offer unrestricted creativ-
For Artevia Stone and Polish we recommend that you have the
ity on any project. It can be moulded when fresh like any concrete, or
polishing machine as well as machinery/equipment to ensure that
pounded like stone when hardened to create new textures, and Lafarge
the levels are correct!
South Africa instituted a training programme for this product to teach
What is the cost of the training programme?
contractors how to gain the most benefit from it. FLOORS spoke to
We don’t charge for the training.
Anathi Zitumane, Lafarge Product Development Manager for Artevia.
How long does the training last?
How long has your training programme been going, who runs it, and
After the two days of training, we provide support to the trainee
where?
on his or her first and second job. We then evaluate the quality in
The training programme was introduced in 2005 when Artevia was
the first five finished jobs and, if we’re happy, the trained person
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Artevia Exposed for the
Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s D e v e l o p m e n t
Steenburg golf estate for walkways
becomes an Approved Applicator for that particular Artevia product (Exposed/Print/Polish/Colour). What do the participants get to show that they have been trained? The Approved Applicator gets a certificate, we list his company details in our website and he can use Artevia for marketing his business (online, prints, site boards, vehicle branding, etc). Does this training help participants gain a learnership with the Construction Education Training Authority (CETA) somehow? Not yet! How often are the courses held? It depends on the demand. For instance in the first quarter this year we have four sessions (Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth). How many people are currently under training, and how many have already successfully completed the course? Currently we have 29 approved applicators nationally! Anyone interested in learning more about these training programmes should contact: Anathi, Cell: 083 656 8586, Tel: 011 657 0000; or by email: anathi.zitumane@lafarge.com
Extensia Extensia is a non-reinforced, low shrinkage concrete for internal use on industrial and commercial floors. Lafarge identifies a flooring contractor to partner with and train, thus ensuring that the product application is only carried out by a Lafarge-trained applicator. FLOORS spoke to Sivuyile Ngobozana, Lafarge Product Development Manager for Extensia. Extensia was launched in Cape Town in October 2009 as a pilot and then introduced to Durban and Gauteng in 2010 where we are now focusing our efforts. If a need arises in smaller areas we will consider product development based on the potential business in that specific area. Durbanville Church, Artevia Exposed using sandstone pigment for walkways and in steps
In the training sessions, a presentation is conducted to cover the theory in terms of application. Then a small job site of about 400m² is found through our customer network and a partnership is formed in doing a full-scale trial, where the flooring contractor does the concrete placing under the supervision of a Lafarge trained personnel. After successful completion of the first trial, four more trials need to be successfully completed before the contractor can be certified as an approved applicator for the product, which means that the applicator is approved after five successful trial jobs. The customers are then given the list of approved applicators to choose from when the product is to be supplied. Anyone interested in learning more about these training programmes should contact: Sivuyile, Cell: 083 230 1230, Tel: 021 508 8000; or by email: sivuyile.ngobozana@lafarge.com.
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in skills training
Flooring academy is leading the way With their firm commitment to continually invest in the training and upliftment of the flooring trade – particularly in relation to performance enhancement – Belgotex Floorcoverings has embarked on a further series of training courses held through the Belgotex Flooring Academy which, over the past few years, has trained and enhanced the skills of scores of people within the industry.
W
ith another exceptional response during 2010, resulting in a considerable number of very successful courses being
held, the Belgotex Floorcoverings Flooring Academy reaffirms its commitment to the industry by having scheduled another comprehensive training programme throughout this year. The courses cover Technical Sales; Floorcoverings Installation; and Measuring, Estimating, Planning & Costing. A brief description of the contents of each course follows:
different fibres, yarns and constructions. This section also covers the unique Belgotex Floorcoverings technologies that are available, including SDX, EcoWash, underlays, Stainproof. Performance gradings and fire ratings are explained to ensure that the right products are recommended for the correct application. Guarantees, warranties, carpet manufacturer’s claims policy and other related issues. The headings under this session are largely self-explanatory, but the professional explanation of how to handle each of these components of sales training brings a new meaning to the words, and
Technical Sales: Carpeting (Needlepunch & Tufted), Duraturf Artificial Grass, Sportec Rubber, Hartsfield Vinyl and IVC Soft Cushion Vinyl. The technical sales training given on these courses entails very comprehensive and detailed sessions that enable delegates to acquire
equips any delegate to further his career.
Floorcoverings Installation Training (Carpeting, Duraturf Artificial Grass, Sportec Rubber, Hartsfield Vinyl and IVC Soft Cushion Vinyl.)
a competent sales approach, covering such subjects as Telephone
Here the need for professionalism is once again emphasised.
technique; The appointment; Know your Product; Floor preparation
Pre-installation preparation, correct installation methods and safe
and related subjects ; Principles of store layout; Closing the deal; and,
use of the installation tools, together with their correct mainte-
very importantly, After the sale.
nance, are also covered.
Know your Product covers the manufacturing process in detail, and
Then the attendees get down to the practical hands-on installa-
includes details of the finished product from fibres to maintenance,
tion of patterned carpets in both stretch and stick-down applica-
together with all the features and benefits to the homeowner of the
tions. Needlepunch carpeting and carpet tiles, Duraturf Grass,
Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 033 897 7500 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za 80
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Sportec Rubber and both Vinyl ranges. Floor preparation, planning, layout and other ‘tricks of the trade’ that assist in providing a professional installation are demonstrated. Installation of carpeting on stairs is also included.
manufacturers and suppliers in the country. Anyone interested in obtaining further information – or making a booking to attend one of the Academy courses when it is next in your area – contact Allan de Wit at the numbers shown below.
Workshop: February to June 2011
Measuring, Estimating, Planning & Costing This workshop course provides an introduction that includes preparation and meeting customers, together with gathering information – getting the facts and surveying the installation – and includes practical exercises. Measuring – discussion on the equipment required, the techniques employed, and the measuring of rooms, hallways and stairs. Estimating & Planning – covers the detail required for plain and patterned carpets, and correct seam positioning. Calculating – discusses infills, splits and borders. Measuring accessories – underlays, adhesives. Presenting the plan – sketching, scale plan preparation and quotations.
16 February
Measuring & Estimating
Johannesburg
17 February
Measuring and Estimating
Cape Town
17 February
Floorcoverings Installation
Johannesburg
9 March
Sales
Cape Town
9 March
Measuring & Estimating
Bloemfontein
10 March
Floorcoverings Installation
Bloemfontein
15 March
Measuring & Estimating
Johannesburg
16 March
Floorcoverings Installation
Johannesburg
21 March
Sales
Durban
19 April
Measuring & Estimating
George
20 April
Sales
George
18 May
Measuring & Estimating
Port Elizabeth
18 May
Measuring & Estimating
Johannesburg
12 May
Measuring & Estimating
Durban
19 May
Sales
Port Elizabeth
19 May
Floorcoverings Installation
Johannesburg
7 June
Floorcoverings Installation
Cape Town
9 June
Floorcoverings Installation
George
22 June
Sales
Durban
During the second half of the year Belgotex concentrates on the country areas such as Polokwane, Nelspruit, Rustenburg, Kimberley, amongst others.
At the end of each course the delegates are provided with a Belgotex literature covering the subjects discussed during the day. This year, emphasis will also be placed on instructing delegates on the actions, procedures and products from Belgotex Floorcoverings that make the company one of the most environmentally aware
Please note!
Floorcoverings Academy certificate and all the relevant brochures and
The programme for 2011 Please note that the dates and venues for the 2nd half of the 2011 programme will be published in the next issue of FLOORS in Africa.
Belgotex Floorcoverings 011 033 345 2944 • Cell: 082 561082 6072561 • Fax: 011 •345 2988 •allan.dewit@carpet.co.za E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za Belgotex Floorcoverings• Tel: • Tel: 897 7500 • Cell: 6072 E-mail: • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s D e v e l o p m e n t
On the ball with the FloorworX training In keeping with past years, FloorworX has again developed a comprehensive programme to be conducted at its training centre during 2011, cov-
E
stablished flooring contractors are invited to send their staff on these courses at no charge, although prior booking is essential.
Courses are conducted by leading experts in their respective fields.
ering the extensive range of FloorworX vinyl tiles and sheeting, Quick-Step laminate flooring, K채hrs natural wood floors and Bona flooring products, and including sanding and sealing techniques.
FLOORWORX VINYLS DATE
TYPE OF TRAINING
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE
09 February (Wed) Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
TIME
09h00-15h30
& Skirting
08 June (Wed)
Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
& Skirting
05 October (Wed)
Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
& Skirting
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE
06 April (Wed)
Sheeting & Floorprep, 09h00-15h30
Coving & Welding
17 August (Wed)
Sheeting & Floorprep, 09h00-15h30
Coving & Welding
09h00-15h30 09h00-15h30
booking Should you wish to attend any of the training in abovementioned Schedule 1, please contact Teresa Martins on 011 406 4024 or e-mail her at tmartins@floorworx.co.za.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s D e v e l o p m e n t
FITTING OF SPECIALIST PRODUCTS DATE
TYPE OF TRAINING
TIME
QUICK-STEP LAMINATES AND KÄHRS REAL WOOD PRACTICAL 29 February (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
16 July (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
15 October (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
Quick-Step Product and Kährs Real Wood Practical BY REQUEST Bona Flooring Products, Sanding & Sealing 02 March (Wed) CT Bona Adhesives
09h00-16h00
03 March (Thurs) CT Bona Sanding & Sealing
09h00-16h00
07 March (Mon) DBN Bona Adhesives & Sand/Seal
09h00-16h00
09 March (Wed) JHB Bona Adhesives
09h00-16h00
10 March (Thurs) JHB Bona Sanding & Sealing
09h00-16h00
23/24 August (Tues/Wed)JHB Bona Sanding & Sealing 09h00-16h00
booking Should you wish to attend any of the above-mentioned training, please contact Maria Sanfona on 011 455 2970 or e-mail at msanfona@floorworx.co.za.
ADVANCED BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL, AND A DEPOSIT OF R100 TO SECURE THE BOOKING IS REQUIRED. THE DEPOSIT WILL BE REFUNDED ON ATTENDANCE OF SCHEDULED BOOKING. banking details
PHOTOS: FLOORWORX & SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
Account Name:
FloorworX Africa (Pty) Ltd t/a FloorworX
Account Number: 4072727303 Bank:
ABSA
Branch Code:
632005
Reg no:
2004/009876/07
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s D e v e l o p m e n t
Cement technology Cemcrete has run cement technology information courses for years, but has since extended this training to full hands-on training courses from the end of 2009. These courses are run by Cemcrete’s Technical Manager Steve van Straaten, which also
projects. These courses are also suitable for all those in the building
incorporate the cement technology section with
industry who want to learn more about cement-based products,
Mike Dittberner. They are run at the Cemcrete Academy in Industria, Johannesburg (part of Cemcrete’s Head Office).
Cemcrete will be offering full five-day training courses, covering the entire product range, as well as one-day courses on individual products, or groups of products. Each participant receives a Training Course certificate stating
V
which products they have been trained on, and on what date.
grammed to cover not only the product application techniques,
one training course or another (eg: different product courses) over
but the preparatory work before application, trouble shooting tech-
the last year. “Currently the Academy is closed until April after
niques, other product uses and innovations and more. Both theoret-
Cemcrete’s new Jan Smuts Ave Showroom has been opened at the
ical and practical work is covered, but the main focus and outcome
end of March,” van Straaten concludes.
an Straaten says, “A maximum of 16 people are allowed per
Cemcrete is in the process of having these courses certified in order
course so that everyone gets the personal attention and
for participants to receive CETA recognition of some sort.
hands-on experience needed. All the courses are specially pro-
of these courses is really for hands-on work.” “Anyone in the building industry who would like to extend
84
such as architects, developers, and so forth,” he says.
Cemcrete has had just over 100 people receive certificates for
Cemcrete Tel: 0860 CEMCRETE (236 2738)
their product application knowledge and offering in their busi-
E-mail: info@cemcrete.co.za
ness can attend, as well as the DIY-ers who love to tackle their own
Website: www.cemcrete.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Authentic Flooring The end product of a cow is not necessarily milk or
cow dung inside to repel mosquitoes, and in cold
beef. Cow dung has also been used to line the floors
places cow dung is used to line the walls of rustic
and walls of buildings for hundreds of years owing
buildings as a cheap thermal insulator. Cow dung
to its insect-repellent properties for some types of
is also an optional ingredient in the manufacture of
insects (not flies or dung beetles!).
adobe mud-brick housing depending on the avail-
In central Africa, Maasai villagers have even burned
ability of materials at hand.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
85
Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
The real deal in flooring! The end product of a cow is not necessarily milk or beef. Cow dung has also been used to line the floors and walls of buildings for hundreds of years owing to its insect-repellent properties for some types of insects (not flies or dung beetles!).
I
unique to the owners.
to line the walls of rustic buildings as a cheap thermal insulator.
is that it will not fade, and the original material can be matched even
Cow dung is also an optional ingredient in the manufacture of
after twenty years of service, or more.
n central Africa, Maasai villagers have even burned cow dung inside to repel mosquitoes, and in cold places cow dung is used
adobe mud-brick housing depending on the availability of materials at hand. So, although nobody is actively marketing it as far as we know,
One advantage that natural stone has over other flooring materials
There are three main types of rock: igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic. The first comes from the solidification of the magma below the earth’s surface and is largely volcanic in origin; the second from
cow dung can be seen to be one of the oldest and truly
the settling of debris from existing rocks and/or animal and vegetal
authentic floorcoverings available today and, if one thinks
remains; and the third from the intense but natural transformation of
about it, it is also one of the cheapest, greenest and most sustain-
existing rocks caused by pressure, temperature and chemical agents.
able flooring materials! There have been many other authentic materials used over the centuries for flooring – mostly natural materials that exist near
The most common varieties of natural stone used for flooring are marble, limestone, granite and slate, although quartzite, sandstone and travertine floors are often found in South African homes.
where they are required to be used. For example, three flint floors have been found at Avebury in Wiltshire, used for some of the old-
Marble
est dwellings in Britain from the last phase of hunting and gath-
Marble falls into the metamorphic category of rock, and is the generic
ering – the Late Mesolithic period which dates at about 4500BC – and consisting of carefully selected smooth flint pebbles found in the area. The dictionary definition of authentic is: “of undisputed origin or authorship; genuine” and this is what we will be looking for in this introductory article, which will include floors that use the most natural materials in their makeup, and have stood the test of time, such as natural stone, wood, cork, linoleum, rubber, seagrass, sisal, bamboo and wool.
Natural stone Stone was one of the first materials used by man to build with and there is no doubt that for centuries no other flooring material has given such a feeling of opulence and aesthetic appeal combined with exquisite natural beauty and inherent durability. Even with their ability to last forever, natural stone floors are always stylish and fashionable, and one of the main reasons for their popularity is that each type of stone has its own individual patterning, colour and appeal, making every floor
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
name given for any limestone or dolomite material that can be
pastel colours, often with beautiful fossils appearing on the surface,
polished, but it is a relatively soft and porous stone that is prone to
and Soapstone is a softer, dense stone, lighter in colour and yet more
staining unless properly treated. Many colour ranges are available
resistant to stains.
including black, cream, (almost) white and green, and it is usually
Both are very durable, easy to maintain, and so attractive, which is
heavily grained and veined which gives this material its characteristic
why they are often used in combination with other natural stone mate-
aesthetic appeal.
rials to complement them or to provide an effective contrast.
Slate
Travertine
Also a metamorphic rock, slate is a fine-grained stone that is rela-
Travertine is usually found as a cream or reddish stone, but it inherently
tively thin and may need careful handling during installation but
contains numerous holes that must be properly filled to avoid exten-
it can provide an extremely attractive, hardwearing and durable
sive maintenance during its lifecycle as a flooring material.
floorcovering. In most cases it will need sealing. Commonly avail-
Most natural stones can be supplied with a polished finish, honed (a
able in black, grey or green, slate can also be obtained in cream
satin-smooth finish with little light reflection), or flamed in the finishing
and pink varieties, and is probably the most cost-effective of all
process, which provides a rough surface texture.
the natural stone flooring materials.
Granite Granite is an igneous stone, available in different varieties
Natural stone floors are easy to maintain although, because most have a naturally porous structure, it is recommended to seal these floors, even though with some it is not absolutely necessary. It is almost impossible for a natural stone floor to fail; the main causes
depending on the percentage mix of quartz, mica and feldspar in
of floor failure are attributable to errors in the application of the prod-
its composition.
uct or substrate.
It is a very hard material and easier to maintain than most other natural stone floors, but it is still porous and will stain if not properly
Wood
treated. It is usually supplied in the darker colours, but most local
It is interesting to note that an authentic and totally ‘green’ source of
suppliers will offer granite in red, black, green and a variety of hues.
timber that is only found in New Zealand is being marketed today.
However, Black granite has very little quartz and feldspar and has a
Ancient Kauri wood is the oldest workable timber on Earth – without
different composition to that of true granite.
any living trees being harvested.
Limestone
rally, falling into peat swamps that sealed it from the air and prevented
This is a sedimentary rock that is very hardwearing, consisting mainly
it from rotting. Thus it was preserved underground in nearly perfect
of calcite with a smooth granular surface that shows little graining or
condition for 50 000 years.
crystalline structure. It is more likely to stain than marble, so it must be properly sealed before use. Some varieties can be polished, and the colour range available includes black, grey, white, yellow, brown, and even an ‘almost’ red.
Sandstone and soapstone Two very popular sedimentary rocks, Sandstone is available in light
Every Kauri tree grew for at least 1 200 years before being felled natu-
What a talking point if you could afford it as a floor in your home! Needless to say, it is being used for making furniture – instant antiques! Although there are wood floors that are known to have been in existence for over 800 years, in the early 17th Century the ground floor of most European houses still lacked a wooden floor. Most houses had an earth floor, and the second floor, if you could afford one, had wooden joists and plank flooring of oak or elm. The great abundance of wood in North America brought common use of planks on the main floor during the Colonial Era (1607-1780), which meant that the new Americans could get off the earth floors and enjoy the resiliency and warmth of wooden floors. These floors were made out of slow-growth pine and not sanded or finished, generally being worn smooth by continuous foot traffic over the years. Today, 80% of all new floors in North America are made from oak, with local hardwoods such as maple, hickory and ash in demand. These days, a huge variety of exotic wood species, colours and plank widths is available, and with hues ranging from pale yellow to dark brown, and reds, beiges and browns in between, it means the design potential with natural wood is legion. Economic pressure in the marketplace from less expensive look-alike materials has forced wood suppliers to give birth to the technology of engineered wood. This involves factory-made planks utilising a structured base of less expensive wood and a top surface of the selected exotic wood – thus preserving the use of the latter whilst still providing the desired finish and effect. These often have their own unique fixing systems, many embody-
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
ing joint systems that surpass the traditional installation methods
No trees are harvested in the making of cork floors; once the trees
of any of the board or plank floorcoverings in terms of strength
are about 25 years old the cork is stripped from the trunks every nine
and durability.
years; if left, the trees will shed it to assist with its growth process. The
Typically, these woods mature in 40-60 years, so it must be ensured that they are obtained from strictly controlled and maintained forests, with a firm reforestation programme.
trees live for about 200 years. Most of the European cork is harvested for the wine bottle stopper market, with the cork used for flooring being the leftover from this process. This doesn’t make it any less desirable as a floor, however, where
Rapidly renewable wood
it gains favour for its sound-deadening properties, its natural insect-
Bamboo, cork and eucalyptus are the three major varieties of
repellent properties, and the fact that it is naturally antimicrobial.
rapidly renewable hard surface wood floorcoverings that can be harvested in less than 15 years.
Bamboo In the age of green building, bamboo flooring has become a major
tional cork look, exotic and even stone looks, geometric block patterns and colours are now available.
player in hardwood options. An incredibly durable, versatile, sustain-
Eucalyptus
able and price-competitive form of hardwood flooring, bamboo has
These floors are not generally found in Southern Africa, although
become the floor of choice for many people building or renovating
they do have a niche market in North America. Grown mostly in Brazil
homes with an eco-friendly edge.
although there are some forests in Australasia, eucalyptus is a fast-
Bamboo is considered a rapidly renewable source of wood but, although it performs like a hardwood, bamboo is technically a grass and the supply market is pretty well cornered by China – although we hasten to add that this is not the same bamboo that is the staple diet of the endangered panda. When it’s cut, the root of the bamboo stalk stays in the ground, growing back to a mature height in anywhere from three-and-a-half to seven years. Then, it’s ready to be cut again. Bamboo floors are also popular because they give a stunning look to any room and can be adapted to any decorating style. Bamboo itself can also be dyed into many colours or kept completely natural, finished or unfinished. The choices are almost infinite. You can also find bamboo at reasonable prices, which makes it a wonderful option for redecorating on a budget.
Cork Portugal is the main source of cork, although cork oak forests can be found in Europe, North Africa and even China. However, cork commands the smallest niche in the hardwood flooring industry, and although it has a steady market in the Cape areas, it is hardly used elsewhere in South Africa.
88
Cork flooring materials are provided in both plank and tile form, and for the people that want something different from the distinctive tradi-
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
growing tree; it grows at least twice as fast as species such as pine, oak
Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
or cherry (though not as fast as bamboo), and it is very hard. Eucalyptus flooring is available in patterns and colours very similar to other hardwood flooring choices. Modern technologies
cases even includes Camel Hair wool. Iran is still the world’s biggest supplier of ‘Persian’ carpets. Silk carpets date back to at least the 16th Century in Sabzevar and
and premium pigments will produce higher colour vibrancy, and engi-
the 17th Century in other areas, but are less common than wool
neered wood is the order of the day for both planks and tiles.
carpets since silk is more expensive and less durable; they tend to increase in value with age. Due to their rarity, value and lack of
Fibrous floorcoverings
durability, silk carpets are often displayed on the wall like tapestries
Coir, also known as the coco fibre, is taken from the fibrous husk that
rather than being used as floorcoverings.
surrounds the coconut. The natural resilience and durability of this material make it especially desirable for rugs.
Linoleum
The best rugs use only the finest Indian coir. They are available in
In 1860, rubber manufacturer Fredrick Walton invented linoleum, the
brush matting, in multiple colours and thicknesses, and are made from
floor and wall covering often used in Victorian homes. Linoleum was
the strong fibres of the coconut husk found in Kerala, India.
made famous by Scottish flooring manufacturer Michael Nairn, who
The natural fibres are removed by hand and softened in sea water, so that they can be woven into a selection of designs. Coir is both durable
introduced the inlaid patterning that linoleum is best known for. The name linoleum comes from the Latin word ‘linum’, which means
and good value. It is available in a spectrum of golden shades from
flax, and the Latin word ‘oleum’, which means oil, which indicates that
natural to bleached.
it is made of linseed oil, pigments, pine rosin and pine flour, and manufactured by oxidising linseed oil and adding the other ingredients to
Jute
form a thick mixture called linoleum cement, which is rolled smooth
Jute gives a tweedy look and is soft underfoot. It comes from the stalk
and given a final process of thorough seasoning in drying rooms.
of the giant corchorus plant, grown in Southern India. The natural fibres
Laid in sheet form, or waterjet/laser-cut into intricate and attrac-
are fine, making jute more suitable for relaxing rooms rather than heav-
tive patterns, modern derivatives of linoleum provide an aestheti-
ily used areas. It is naturally light brown in colour and comes in tight
cally pleasing, healthy, easily cleaned and very durable floorcover-
bouclé and herringbone designs.
ing available in a wide range of colours.
Seagrass
Rubber
A number of different tall plants grown in wet areas of South Asia
The first attempts to make rubber floor tiles date back to the 13th
are used to make seagrass fibres which can be woven into carpets
Century, but with little or no success. It wasn’t until the 1830s that
and mats in soft, sage green colours that range from a greenish tan
inventors Charles Goodyear and Nathaniel Hayward learned how to
to khaki-olive. This fibre is never dyed, so a complete range of
combine gum plastic, sulphur and plant sap (latex) to create the rubber
natural colours is evident in each rug.
we know and use today. This process (named ‘vulcanisation’ after the
These fibres retain the grassy, hay-like scent that is characteristic of the plant – a natural scent which dissipates over time. Seagrass rugs are durable, resilient and resistant to spills and soiling.
Sisal Sisal fibre, obtained from the agave plant, is extremely long and
Roman god of fire, Vulcan) produces a material more durable and more resilient than its rubber ancestors. The latex used in natural rubber production is actually sap that can be found in certain plants and trees. At present, the primary source of latex is generated from the Pará rubber tree. Latex is white and milky in appearance, has an elastic consistency,
rugged. These plants are grown without the use of herbicides and
and is removed from the tree through a process called ‘rubber tapping’.
pesticides, and it is an extremely versatile material that is used to
During this process, cuts are made into the trunk of the tree, allowing
make rugs in many different patterns and weaves, in natural and a
the latex, which occurs in latex vessels in the bark, to drip into a recep-
broad range of dyed colours.
tacle attached below, without disturbing the tree’s growth.
Sisal is durable enough for staircases and attractive as area
Just two centuries ago, the Pará rubber tree was exclusive to the
rugs or wall to wall, where it is naturally sound-absorbing, anti-
Amazon rainforests. In the 1870s rubber tree seeds were brought to
static, and extremely durable.
India to help establish the first commercial rubber plantations. Today,
Wool As a totally natural fibre, wool is very hardwearing and durable, naturally fire-resistant, easy to clean, does not easily absorb moisture, is
rubber tapping methods are also commonly practised in Liberia and Brazil, but with Asia as the predominant source of natural rubber production. Rubber floorcoverings are available in sheet and floor tile format,
resistant to wear by abrasion, has a natural ability to resist staining and
with the latter available in over 300 different colours and designs.
soiling, and provides a very warm and luxurious feel underfoot. It is
Easy to install, rubber floors are hygienic, durable and simple to
often used in blends with other fibres.
keep clean.
Persian carpets
selves because, although they comprise natural ingredients, they only
Wool is the most common material for these carpets but cotton
become a floorcovering after processing takes place. The same can be
is frequently used for the more commercial applications. There
said of the fibres we have discussed, but all the materials mentioned in
is a wide variety in types of wool used for weaving, which in some
this article have been in use as floors for hundreds of years.
Linoleum and rubber are strictly speaking not authentic in them-
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
You can’t get more authentic than Many people who advocate ‘green’ materials in their homes will often steer clear of wall-to-wall carpeting. Issues with off-gassing of VOCs that are used in synthetic carpets as well as their backing and adhesives can compromise indoor air quality.
H
owever, sustainable alternative fibres are available, with wool considered by many to be the gold standard for carpeting. There are those who will consider nothing but wool
carpeting, but then there are others who resist using it. Depending on taste, preferences and circumstances, wool carpeting may be an ideal solution. Wool carpeting is overall a very beautiful and durable choice and because it is usually the most expensive option, it is important to be aware of the pitfalls as well before choosing a carpet. Even in today’s times, wool is still amongst the most prized carpet fibre, because of its comfort factor and lasting good looks. Given the sum total of product features, benefits and shortcomings, wool is still considered the ultimate carpet fibre. For this reason carpet with a wool content of at least 80% are often the carpet of choice for heavy-duty commercial installations such as major international hotels, where appearance and serviceability are all-important. In the domestic market, with its vast range of creative wool styles, a pure wool carpet can provide the ultimate floor finish for any home.
Origins of wool Wool is one of the oldest fibres used by man, dating back over two thousand years. Wool comes from the fleece of sheep or lambs and is still one of the finest face yarns available for carpet. It is chemically made up of standard organic elements including sulphur, which accounts for the wool smell when it is damp. Let’s take a look at the benefits of working with woollen carpets. Wool has excellent soil-hiding capabilities, and will not exhibit or show soil as much as some other fibres. The reason for this is that wool is an opaque fibre (as opposed to synthetics which are transparent) and wool doesn’t refract and reflect light like synthetics. The naturally dull appearance provided by the scales of the epidermis makes soil much less apparent to the human eye. Wool is very strong, elastic and resilient, and its natural crimp makes wool an excellent insulator. This adds bulk to a carpet and helps add resiliency. Wool cells come in two different types: the paracortex and the orthocortex, which lie on opposite sides of the fibre and grow at slightly different rates. This causes a three-dimensional corkscrew pattern of coiled springs much like shock absorbers, giving wool high elasticity and a ‘memory’ that allows the fibres to recover and resume normal dimensions after being flattened. Wool fibres can be stretched up to 30% without rupturing and still bounce back. Wool face yarn in a well-constructed carpet will stand up to the heaviest traffic and still look beautiful. (Notice the carpet in most casinos and finer hotel lobbies and hallways.) Wool is most importantly naturally flame-retardant. This means when coming to fit carpet in rooms where perhaps you might have open fires on cold or wintry nights, it’s perfectly safe. No worries, for if a spark fires off into the room and lands on the carpet, your wool is safe. In comparison, some synthetic fibres when met with a spark could easily be set alight which, if you’re not properly prepared, could spell disaster. In less serious cases a spark or cigarette bud
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Feature Focus: Authentic Flooring
usually leaves an ugly melted blob. You’ll have no problem with other similar fire problems either – perhaps you have no electricity
liquids. However wool responds amazingly to prompt and correct cleaning – so much so that
for a while and you resort to candles for lighting. If one ends up falling onto the floor, again no
with the right and quick corrective action –
problem – the wool won’t catch alight. It is the same with cigarettes, or anything with which a syn-
you may not be aware there was ever a spill!
thetic floor would catch fire.
Remember that absorbency is the same qual-
Wool also has good absorbency, which means that it reacts well to a number of dye types and
ity that makes wool so desirable as far as dye
techniques. Regarding soil release – wool responds very well to cleaning as moisture makes the
acceptance goes in obtaining the beautiful rich
fibres swell and thus will release embedded soil (as long as the carpet is properly maintained).
colours that you often find in wool carpets and
Wool is soft and forgiving; some synthetic surfaces are more prone to being slipped upon, which with young children is a likely happening, while with the elderly it can be quite dangerous.
oriental rugs. Wool is sensitive to alkaline chemicals above
Synthetic and artificial flooring tends to have a more shiny surface, and can generally be a
a pH of 9,5 after prolonged exposure. This expo-
lot more solid as well. While wool is soft underfoot, some synthetic carpet tends to be tough
sure will tend to make wool brittle and discolour
and hard.
somewhat. This problem is sometimes referred to
What this all means then, is that wool is the obvious choice to make in almost any environ-
as ‘felting’. Wool is also very sensitive to chlorine
ment. When it comes to dropping something on the floor – a glass for example would nor-
bleach, which will damage the fibre. The recom-
mally smash on a harder surface – while if falling on wool, the result is quite different. Instead,
mended water-based cleaning solutions have a pH
wool is fluffy and soft, cushioning the fall. While the glass might still break, it’s significantly
not lower than 5,5 and not higher than 8.
more likely to remain unharmed. Wool’s other unique properties include the fact that because wool contains moisture it doesn’t allow static electricity to build up. Hence wool fabrics do not cling to the body. In addition, wool does not attract dirt particles and so remains clean and dust-free.
Nouwens Carpets believes strongly that wool is simply a great authentic all-round carpet fibre. The Nouwens carpet wool ranges have been tailored to meet the aesthetic needs of our times – a
Wool is a great insulator, providing warmth through its inherent insulation properties. In a wool
turn to nature and an appreciation for the values
garment the crimp in the fibres makes them stand apart from each other. As a result, little pockets
of quality and craftsmanship as well as a concern
of still air are trapped between the fibres. This lining of air trapped inside the fabric acts as an insu-
for the environment.
lator (as well as the layer between the fabric and the skin). Still air is one of the best insulators found in nature – ask any polar bear or penguin who relies on the insulating air layer formed by fur or feathers to keep warm in Arctic conditions. Wool also generates heat; when moisture enters the fibre (for example, when we go outside on
Wool makes a definite quality statement. In the home, hotel and premium office area it imparts that cosy natural feel only wool can bring. If you are looking for an authentic genuine
a cold, damp day), a significant amount of energy is released. This enables a wool jersey or other
flooring solution that is So much more than just
garment to provide a warming effect while the moisture is being absorbed.
a carpet consider the Nouwens Lincoln, Kirman,
Every kilogram of wool generates about as much energy as the human body’s metabolism
Madison Square and Copenhagen ranges with
produces in one hour, and when you return to a dry, warm indoor environment, the moisture is
their superb appearance retention and the fact
released and a cooling effect is the result.
that wool really is forgiving and easy to clean.
Wool ‘breathes’. Under a microscope a wool fibre is seen to be covered by a thin sheath of overlapping scales that act rather like tiny roof tiles. The scales cause liquid water to form beads and roll off. This enables a wool fabric to repel moderate rain and spills. In contrast, wool absorbs water vapour (from the air or from perspiration) through the porous
The pleasure is that your carpet’s looks will last for years. These wool carpets feel great underfoot when installed on a quality underlay. They also come
coating over the scales. Hence wool can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture – without
with all the possible peace of mind endorse-
feeling clammy. Damp wool fabric remains absorbent and comfortable inside because its outer
ments – the SABS mark of quality, Nouwens
surface releases this moisture through evaporation.
Wool Collection, Platinum Edition and a five-
Wool fibres strive to stay in balance with the surrounding moisture conditions – this is why wool is said to breathe as it absorbs and evaporates moisture.
year Quality Guarantee. Speaking authentically, you couldn’t do better!
However, there are some concerns to bear in mind when working with wool.
Nouwens Carpets
Wool is an expensive material. Traditionally this has arisen mainly from the processing cost,
Johannesburg – 011 796 5180
the cleaning and the preparation, and so forth, rather than the actual cost of the raw material.
Cape Town – 021 447 2856
However, at present demand exceeds supply and the raw material cost itself is under pressure and
Durban – 031 502 5730
will be for the foreseeable future.
E-mail: enquiries@nouwens.co.za
Wool, due to its absorbency and ease of dyeing, can be easily stained by wine and other acid
Website: www.nouwens.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
91
Business environments If one looks at the considerable number of existing
dioxide to be found in any country. This, and the com-
buildings that were erected before the advent of
bination of ever-increasing energy prices, has caused
green building, it can be seen that they are easily the
consumers and businesses to investigate means of
largest source of wasted energy and emitted carbon
saving costs.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
93
Feature Focus: Business Environments
How are floors coping in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business environments? If one looks at the considerable number of existing buildings that were erected before the advent of green building, it can be seen that they are easily the largest source of wasted energy and emitted carbon dioxide to be found in any country. This, and the combination of ever-increasing energy prices, has caused consumers and businesses to investigate means of saving costs.
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F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Business Environments
G
reen building practices are fast becoming a major require-
withstanding of high traffic. With a relatively low maintenance require-
ment for any new architectural project and, as can be seen
ment, it is also a great choice for sound reduction in a busy space.
from the articles in the Sustainability feature contained in this issue,
The availability of custom-made broadloom or carpet tiles adds to the
the questions of energy saving, water saving, the storage and re-use of
popularity of this type of floorcovering for the business environment,
rainwater and ‘grey’ water, solar heating and energy, materials with long
especially as it can add considerably to the air quality and overall com-
lifecycles, and the overall carbon footprint of the construction and use
fort for staff and customers. Carpets with antistatic treatments are also
of the building must be answered.
available for use in sensitive electronic areas.
So how does flooring perform in terms of meeting the needs of today’s business environments? Firstly, let’s look at access flooring
Vinyl
which provides the owner or end user with so many benefits that
Available in sheet and tile format, many options with vinyl flooring are
hardly any new offices are built without it.
inexpensive and easy to install. Care and cleaning is easy and, with a
The access flooring industry developed from the demands of computer room applications. The massive amount of cooling and airconditioning required by mainframe computers in the early days created the
myriad of colours and textures to choose from, it is a good choice for customising the flooring design in any application. This is particularly relevant with the new technological developments
need for a modular flooring system that could allow for air to be pro-
in vinyl such as luxury tiles with nearly undetectable faux looks in wood
vided under the equipment, whilst supporting the heavy equipment,
and stone varieties; surface treatments that make cleaning almost a
and allowing easy access to the electrical services.
pleasure; built-in safety surfaces; and a wide spectrum of colours or
Due to growth in technology and the reduction in the size of computers, the need for access floors has increased in offices rather than in
designs to meet the demands of the most discerning customer. Because of its ease of cleaning, low-maintenance requirement, its
computer rooms, and this trend will undoubtedly culminate in access
antibacterial properties, and the vast strides that have been made in
floors being used in practically every office building in the future.
reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), vinyl is a first-choice
Not only are the operational aspects of the business catered for in the design of new buildings and the staff provided with a more efficient
material for applications that demand a high level of hygiene, such as hospitals, clinics and nursery schools.
and ecologically friendly work space, but an access floor can be used in existing buildings (if the design allows), thus increasing the asset and
Hardwood
rental value of the premises.
Although solid wood floors are still sought after by some end users and
In recent years it has become noticeable that older buildings with-
are readily available in a wide range of exotic and local timbers, the
out access flooring are often rejected by prospective tenants as being
development of engineered wood floors has seen a resurgence in the
unable to meet their requirements for office churn and operational
use of this type of floor.
flexibility. Nevertheless, the installation of an access floor can easily
The advanced technology now employed means that with a surface
transform an area overnight, turning a low-tech company into a
layer of the exotic or preferred hardwood, combined with a cross-ply
modern office using ideal interconnectivity.
base of more sustainable and less expensive timber, the end user gets
The upsurge in access flooring projects has seen a commensurate
a traditional hardwood floor that makes much less of a demand on
increase in the demand for carpet tiles, which provide the perfect solu-
the forestry environment whilst providing the aesthetic appeal, long-
tion for the aesthetic and working performance requirements needed
lasting strength and durability needed in a business application.
in such applications. Wide-ranging styles and types of manufacture, all designed to meet the grid sizes of the access floor, are available, and other floorcoverings
Engineered hardwood flooring has a long lifetime comparable with most durable flooring options and is available in many colours, grains and finishes.
are fast becoming competitive in these areas – all with the ability of enabling easy access to the services in the plenum below. What of the areas, buildings or applications that have no requirement
Laminate This is a synthetic flooring option that has the look and feel of a hard-
for access flooring? Here the choices are absolutely overwhelming, but
wood floor with the benefits of being relatively easy to install, durable,
to obtain a satisfactory conclusion one needs to consider the allocated
easily maintained, and affordable.
budget; the business image – particularly if a particular mood or aesthetic appeal is required; the longevity or lifecycle cost of the preferred
Laminates are extremely impact-, scratch-, and stain-resistant, easy to install, highly resistant to sunlight, and never need waxing
floor; its durability; and its upkeep or maintenance costs. Let’s look at
or polishing. Initially the noise element of laminate floors was a prob-
some of the options that are available:
lem that has been solved with the addition of special underlays that reduce the noise level.
Carpet
Originally it was in the residential sector that laminate floorcoverings
Suitable for almost any application, nothing provides an office, board-
really took off, but the quality products that are available today have
room, hotel foyer or entertainment centre with such a feeling of
ensured that they are now regularly used in offices, boardrooms, hotels,
comfort and opulence as a quality broadloom carpet, where, with
and increasingly seen in upmarket shops and stores.
the right daily care, its durable construction maintains its beauty even after years of use. Modern carpets are available in a huge variety of designs, colours and patterns, and in various grades to meet any requirement including the
The ability to meet and even enhance any interior design and their low-maintenance requirement, with no need for polishing or waxing, mean that laminate floorcoverings are finding favour in a wide spectrum of business environments.
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
95
Feature Focus: Business Environments
Resilient floorcoverings Vinyl floors have been covered earlier in this article, but let’s take a quick look at the other resilient floorcoverings that are often used in business environments of all types. These days, many businesses are opting for environmentfriendly flooring to promote their green image and so may choose floorcoverings such as cork, bamboo and linoleum for their recyclable properties, their use of renewable natural resources and their promotion of a healthier working environment. However, they all have many other attributes to recommend their use. Linoleum – is a versatile product that gives character and quality to a very wide range of environments. In healthcare, schools, offices, public buildings and retail it is regularly specified because, apart from being anti-allergic, it is very durable and easy to maintain. Also, it is made from natural and renewable materials, contains recycled content (and is itself recyclable) and is available in a variety of colours to meet any design theme. Cork – made from the bark of the cork oak tree (which it sheds if not harvested), cork flooring is both an eco-friendly and budgetfriendly flooring choice. Its natural beauty and high performance make cork flooring a popular choice for commercial buildings because it is resilient, flexible, durable, long-lasting, and easily maintained. Rubber – is made from the latex from a rubber tree, a 100% renewable resource, and is easy to install and maintain. Aficionados say nothing competes with the versatility of rubber flooring in a commercial environment. It is resistant to fading and tough enough stay looking good for many years. Many varieties exist, and a wide range of colours is available. Rubber is also a popular choice for the industrial sector, public buildings, schools and hospitals, and in the leisure industry, where it is used particularly for exercise and sporting facilities. It is naturally hygienic, waterproof, cushioning, insulating, easy to clean, stainresistant and very durable, with the ability to handle high traffic and heavy impact.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles These are popular design choices with a variety of colour options, patterns and sizes made for top-quality performance, and they will stand up to a great deal of foot traffic without sign of wear. Porcelain is stronger and more expensive than ceramic, but it can be provided in attractive, very large format tiles that add a new aspect to the overall design of the area. Both are relatively easy to install and are hardwearing, as well as being able to complement any décor and provide the perfect foil for other flooring materials when used in combination or in split-level installations. Ceramic tile is particularly popular for eating establishments or hightraffic areas as it is one of the easiest types of flooring to clean and maintain, as well as being waterproof and not susceptible to damage.
Concrete This type of floor was, until a few years ago, restricted to being the preferred surface for industrial floors such as warehouses, workshops, process plants, heavy industrial applications, and other such floors. Technology has now moved concrete floors into the big league
96
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
Feature Focus: Business Environments
design area, with the advent of coloured, stained, and polished
The stains used allow you to customise your floor, choosing the
concrete all demanding the attention of the enterprising designer
texture or colour you prefer, and the end result is resistant to chips
or end user who is looking for a seamless, good-looking, low-main-
and stains, is incredibly durable, and is very easy to maintain and
tenance floor.
clean.
Polished concrete
Coloured Concrete
Polished concrete is fast becoming the ultimate no-wax flooring
Another affordable commercial flooring option is a simple concrete
material. With the considerable number of new techniques and
overlay or coloured cementitious floor. These are made with poly-
polishing equipment currently available, specialised contractors are
mer blends and are applied to both indoor and outdoor concrete,
now grinding concrete floor surfaces (new or old) to a high-gloss
and they can be customised to give any business environment a
finish that never needs waxing or coating.
specific colour or texture, whether it is for a showroom, warehouse
With the addition of advanced technology in the pigmentation and
or retail store.
dyeing of concrete, these floors can provide the discerning archi-
Liquid-applied seamless flooring
tect or interior designer with an abundance of fresh ideas in the
Rolled, raked or trowelled-on epoxy and polyurethane systems
provision of smooth, high-lustre and attractively coloured floors.
provide these seamless stone floors, which are mostly self-levelling
Polished concrete refers to the processing of the concrete surface through a mechanical process that uses diamond abrasives, where
and can be provided in a wide variety of options including antistatic coatings and high-temperature-resistant flooring systems.
each step is refined to its purest possible form on a microscopic
Customisation is definitely the name of the game with these
level from one progressively finer abrasive to the next until the
floors, which can match or even surpass other types of floor treat-
desired level of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;polishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is achieved.
ments in providing durable, seamless, low-maintenance floors that
The result is a beautiful, durable and efficient surface which eliminates the need for carpet, tile, sealers, or coatings that require expensive replacement and maintenance. It also dispenses with the
are not only hardwearing and durable, but also available in almost any design or colour that may be required. So, from this it can be seen that the South African floorcovering
need for using harsh cleaning chemicals.
industry can meet virtually any demand, product, system, colour or
Stained Concrete
design that may be required, and all the architect, designer or prop-
One of the most popular options is a simple stained concrete
erty owner needs to do is to ensure that proven quality products or
floor. A professional flooring expert will come to your place of busi-
systems are being specified, together with reputable suppliers or
ness and put a stain over your existing or new concrete floor.
manufacturers, and competent, experienced contractors. PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
9 Voyager Street, Linbro Park Tel: +27 11 608 4270 Cell: +27 82 604 5242 Fax: +27 11 608 4278 E-Mail: jbates@mweb.co.za www.batesaccessflooring.co.za
F LO O R S M a rc h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
Numatic Awards for 2010
Roger Milliken dies at 95 Roger Milliken, former CEO and chairman of Milliken & Co., died on 30 December 2010 in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA. Well known as an advocate for American workers, a strong supporter of the Republican Party, and a lover of tree-covered landscapes, Milliken ran his family’s company for 71 years, as president from 1947 to 1983, chairman and CEO from 1983 to 2005, and chairman until his death. The roots of Milliken & Co. go back to the firm co-founded by his grandfather, Seth Milliken – a small textile company, Deering Milliken Company, in Portland, Maine, in 1865. Today Milliken & Co. is the largest privately-held textile and chemical manufacturing firm in the world, with 45 manufacturing facilities in seven countries. The firm has approximately 9 000 employees and has over 2 000 patents it has developed over the years. Textile World Magazine named him its ‘leader of the century’ in 1999. In 2000 he was inducted into the US Business Hall of Fame, now under the auspices of JA Worldwide®. Also that year, he donated $5 million of the $14.5 million needed to construct the Milliken Science Centre, which opened on the campus of Wofford College in 2001. FloorDaily.net
16 years ago. Held at the prestigious Linger Longer restaurant in
Secret ingredient in engineered wood products
Johannesburg, the event was attended by some of Numatic’s best
Pfleiderer said it has succeeded in replacing some wood in its
Numatic International honoured its top-performing distributors at its eighth annual awards evening since coming to South Africa
achievers and distributors. One of the most prestigious and sought-after awards of the evening was presented to the Integrated Technical Services (ITS) Group who walked away with the Top-Performing Distributor award as well as a fully paid trip to Amsterdam, Holland, to attend Interclean 2012 and to the United Kingdom to visit Numatic International’s Head Office. “Interclean is the largest European trade show in our industry where a variety of major cleaning equipment manufacturers showcase their latest products and developments. ITS will certainly benefit from the trade show as it is a true reflection of current innovations within our industry. ITS will be joined in Amsterdam by the top-performing 2011 winner and some of Numatic’s top management team members,” says Dewald Botha, general manager for Numatic South Africa.
engineered products with an unidentified plant material that grows back in one year and is readily available. The company said its BalanceBoard contains up to 30% of this raw material, which grows close to its manufacturing plant. “A completely novel material,” said Michael Wolff, chairman of the board of the Pfleiderer Western Europe Business Centre. “We have made a big step forward and have gained the lead in innovation.” BalanceBoard is lighter than other products but the company said it meets its specifications. It doesn’t require any special equipment or techniques to install. Floordaily.net
Numatic would also like to congratulate the following companies who won regional awards: Cleaning Services (Botswana); KPRG Cleanquip (Gauteng); ITS Cape Town (Cape Province); TDK Floorcare
The Yanks know how to do it
Systems (KwaZulu-Natal); and Michem (Mpumalanga). The award for Best Newcomer in 2010 went to SB Marketing. “We would like to thank each and every person who has played a role in our company’s success. The evening was a true reflection of your commitment to Numatic and we look forward to welcoming you at our 2011 awards evening,” concludes Botha.
100 F L O O R S M a r c h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
We found this brilliant advertisement punchline for an American carpet manufacturer: I am too poor to afford a cheap carpet. Isn’t that exactly what we keep telling people about any floorcovering?!
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
Now for the softer side of flooring Floors Direct, leaders in wooden flooring and decking, have
both have a seven-year guarantee on the UV-protection technol-
recently included carpets as part of their flooring solution offer-
ogy used in their manufacture. This means that no maintenance is
ing. The company now supplies locally manufactured Belgotex,
required, and they are easy to clean, hygienic and evergreen.
Nouwens, Crossley and Van Dyck carpets as well as international
Developments in technology mean that carpets can be custom
brands such as Desso, Milliken Floors and Balsan carpets, through
designed for any application and with an endless choice of designs
its Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal showrooms.
and colours. Floors Direct works closely with the custom design
Installation is carried out by Floors Direct and the company can
divisions of the manufacturers and can therefore accommodate
order specific designs and colour choices from local manufactur-
requests for unique designs and colours. The company has an agree-
ers. “Carpets are a soft, comfortable, convenient and hardwearing
ment with Desso, a specialist in commercial carpet tiles and aviation
flooring option and remain a popular choice for the bedroom and
carpets, based in the Netherlands, to sell its products in South Africa.
lounge,” says Riefert Mulder, national carpet division manager at
Floors Direct caters for residential and commercial carpets, commercial carpet tiles and rubber tiles. The company supplies and
Floors Direct. In addition, a new development that has become very fashionable is the sport, leisure and garden artificial grass. This is perfect for the patio, around swimming pools, driveways and any
fits laminate, engineered wood, bamboo flooring, decking, rubber tiles, blinds and now also carpets. Floors Direct offers the accompanying cleaning products as well as various other services including matching profiles, technical
unsightly area in your garden. Floors Direct offers two flooring solutions, namely the Dura Turf range manufactured by Belgotex and TigerTurf manufactured by Van Dyck. These products can be used indoors or outdoors and
expertise and professional installations. For more information contact Floors Direct on 0861 FLOORS (356677) nationwide or visit their website www.floorsdirect.co.za.
CEO of Italtile Ltd dies in plane crash It is with sadness and regret we report that Gianpaolo Ravazzotti, the CEO of the Italtile Ltd was one of nine people killed in an aeroplane crash in the Robberg Nature Reserve area near Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape province on Tuesday, 8th February. The deceased include eight of his colleagues and business partners – Gia Celori of Italtile, Marilize Compion of Italtile, Sava Di Bella of Prima Bella Bathroom Accessories, Simon Hirschberg of the company Grainwave, Jody Jansen van Rensburg of CTM Alberton, Aletsia Krause of Italtile, and the Italtile pilot Bronwyn Parsons and co-pilot Alison van Staden. The management and staff of Media in Africa would like to express their heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the chairman of the group, Mr Gianni Ravazzotti, his wife Annabel and their daughters, and Gianpaolo’s wife, Vanessa and their children, as well as the families of all of the deceased. It has been announced that Gianni Ravazzotti will once again take over direct leadership of the business as executive chairman. Gianpaolo Ravazzotti
F L O O R S M a r c h A p r i l 2 0 1 1 101
Specialist transport EXCELLENT TRACK RECORD
EFFICIENT AND TIME
“The industry requires a specialised and organised infrastructure - and to cover all points nationally for door-to-door deliveries takes some doing. Over the years Transiton has built up this service as an asset to our industry.” - Luci Nouwens ( Nouwens Carpets) “Their service to us is fantastic, and their reliability is something you can really count on.” - George Prinsloo (Fotakis Brothers)
JOHANNESBURG
PIETERMARITZBURG
CAPE TOWN
Cnr Louw & North Boundary Ave Van Dyk Park, Boksburg Tel (011) 915-2222
20 Chesterfield Road Willowton Pietermaritzburg 033 397 9904/5
21-23 Rand Road Blackheath 021 905 9117/8
for the flooring industry -CONSCIOUS
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION DRIVEN
“This service is exceptional and to my knowledge is not matched internationally.” - Frank Moffat ( Belgotex Floorcaverings) “...nothing is too much trouble for them.” - Boet van Schalkwyk (Layrite) “...they are dedicated to moving only our industry’s products. They know the routes, the drop points and there is less chance of errors because of this.” - Simon Whittaker (Crossley Carpets SA)
TRANSPORT
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
Norcros SA appoints new brand manager Norcros SA has announced the appointment of Gela
In 2008 she joined Warmup as marketing manager and later
Ohl as its new TAL brand
moved to their holding company in Ireland, but the novelty of living
manager. Ohl joins Norcros
abroad soon wore off and, feeling homesick, she returned to South
SA after several years in the
Africa to join Norcros SA in September 2010.
retail and floor industries,
Commenting on the challenges the industry is facing, Ohl says:
bringing with her a wealth
“It’s getting the right balance between traditional marketing activi-
of knowledge. This experi-
ties and keeping pace with social media changes without losing
ence will stand her in good
sight of the fundamentals.”
stead while she looks after
“Also, the demand for greener, environmentally friendly products is
the TAL adhesives and
growing. Consumers want to do good and we are finding that consid-
Nortec Industrial adhesives
eration for the environment features as a strong factor in their deci-
brands.
sion making when purchasing building materials and finishes.”
From 1998 until 2008
Gela Ohl, brand manager Norcros SA
manufacturing environment.
Norcros SA is part of the international group Norcros Plc, a British-
Ohl was employed by
based company listed on the London Stock Exchange, and consists
Pioneer Flooring as market-
of three companies based in South Africa: TAL, a local manufacturer
ing executive where she
of specialist adhesive products including products for tiling instal-
developed a passion for
lations; Nortec, a division of TAL that specialises in industrial adhe-
outstanding service levels, which according to her, is crucial in this
sives for the packaging industry; Johnson Tiles, a manufacturer of
sector. When Pioneer was purchased by Belgotex Floorcoverings in
ceramic and glazed porcelain tiles; and Tile Africa, a national chain
2007 the acquisition gave her additional exposure, this time to the
of tile and bathroom ware retailers.
DACF prepares for biggest show yet Asia’s largest floorcoverings show, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR (DACF), is preparing for an even bigger event than last year which broke all records with over 40 000 visitors. This year the floor size, encompassing 8,5 halls, has been increased by 16% to 92 000m² gross area and space is already 92% sold – ahead of the event scheduled for 22 to 24 March 2011 in Shanghai. The international Wood Flooring Forum, co-organised by the China National Forestry Products Industry Association, will precede DACF on March 21st. Wood flooring remains DACF’s signature and largest category, but sold space for both carpet and resilient has nearly doubled this year, indicating a growing demand for these categories in China’s expanding flooring market. Two new special DACF events will give additional exposure to a variety of products in unique settings. The Creative Flooring section will feature live presentations by the UK’s Academy of Flooring Skills demonstrating how to design and install all types of flooring to achieve the best results. A new Innovation Wall will display a featured collection of the show’s most innovative products. FLOORTECH asia returns to showcase the wood flooring cycle from manufacturing through installation and maintenance while LAYTECH and PROTECH areas provide dedicated venues for installation and maintenance products, tools, equipment and sundries. A dedicated carpet venue, CARPET TECH, will feature technology, equipment, colour and design advances in that category. For more information about DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, visit the website: www.domotexasiachinafloor.com.
104 F L O O R S M a r c h A p r i l 2 0 1 1
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
Suntups on the move Proper planning saves millions of Rands Suntups Wooden Flooring has started 2011 in new premises, having moved to 223 Lower Germiston Road, Heriotdale Industrial Park,
Heriotdale, which means the postal address, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses have also changed. The new postal address is PO Box 930, Germiston 1400; the new national telephone number is 0861 833 338; the national fax number is 011 626 3163; and the relevant e-mail address is info@suntups.co.za.
Call for papers The next Qualicer forum on ceramic tiles takes place in Castellón, Spain, on 13 and 14 February 2012, will concentrate on the green issue of the industry, and the call for papers is now open. If you wish to take part as a speaker or if you wish to know more about Qualicer 2012, check the details on the website www.qualicer. org, which provides details of the subjects of the congress, the deadlines for submission of communications, and much more. Deadlines for submission of papers and posters: A summary (about 500 words long) must be submitted by 27 May 2011, and the complete work by 25 September 2011.
The paved surface on the roof of Century City in Cape Town, one of the successful concrete block paving (CBP) projects on which John Cairns has consulted.
It is an unfortunate truth that there are too many failures in the concrete block paving (CBP) industry. Poor design and detailing, inadequate specifying and poor execution are the main factors which contribute to project failures which occur with regular monotony. Independent paving consultant John Cairns of JC Paving Consulting says he spends far more time arbitrating on and establishing why CBP projects have failed rather than ensuring that they perform as they are supposed to from the outset. “I would far rather get involved in CBP projects upfront, acting as an
DEAD DRUNK! It was late on Saturday night and a drunk was walking home, taking a shortcut through a graveyard, when he heard a moaning noise coming from one of the prepared graves. Looking into the hole, he spotted another drunk lying in the dirt at the bottom.
interface between the designer, the paving contractor and the client, because this saves money for everyone, certainly over the long term.” Cairns says the most common cause of paving failure results from insufficient or badly designed drainage and inadequate earthworks. Very rarely are the paving blocks themselves to blame. “Paving contractors often work under extreme pressure, especially on the larger projects, and they are often left to get on with the job without any input from design engineers or paving consultants. Moreover, paving work is usually executed as a project nears completion.” “Given that the completion date is always established at the outset
“Wassamarrer wiv you?” he asked, swaying perilously close
and is non-negotiable, the time allotted for the paving work is often
to joining the guy in the grave.
cut by as much as half in the mad scramble to meet the deadline. As a
“I’m cold!” was the reply.
result, shortcuts are taken, such as the exclusion of a sub-base layer or
“Well, I should think so,” he said. “They haven’t covered you
a drainage pipe, and the negative and expensive consequences only
up yet!”
emerge further down the line.”
And with that he grabbed a shovel…
SAWLFA training for non-members The Southern African Wood & Laminate Flooring Association (SAWLFA) has announced that, in order to improve the general lack of knowledge and understanding regarding the installation of laminate and solid wood flooring, it has been decided to make its training programmes available to non-members of SAWLFA. Dates and venues for courses are arranged as and when required, so if you have a query, please contact the office at sawlfa@mwebbiz.co.za to confirm future dates. SAWLFA will be taking the training to Durban and Cape Town at the beginning of March.
Cairns adds that there are three important elements in the drainage of conventionally paved surfaces: the correct falls (slopes); the surface drainage; and the sub-surface drainage. Any water which seeps into the bedding layer must be properly drained. If not, the whole structure is destabilised. “Traffic loading and ground conditions determine base-layer thicknesses and there are nine different grades of base materials, some of which must be stabilised with cement. Ideally speaking, ground conditions should be tested for hardness before CBP design commences.” Cairns observes that the installation of permeable concrete block paving (PCBP), which differs from conventional paving in that water infiltration beneath the paved surface is integral to the design, is equally prone to failure if not handled correctly. He notes that although PCBP was only introduced in South Africa in 2007 several projects have failed, mainly due to incorrect design specifications.
F L O O R S M a r c h A p r i l 2 0 1 1 105
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
interiors 2011 New Hospitality exceeds expectations Design expo with great business and Thebe Exhibitions & Projects Group recently announced the
outstanding designs
launch of Design in Hospitality, the first conference and exhibition of its kind to be held in South Africa. The inaugural two-
day event will take place on 7 and 8 July at The Forum, Turbine Hall, Newtown, Johannesburg. Incorporating a high-level conference and a design-led exhibition, Design in Hospitality focuses exclusively on the hotel and hospitality industry. Set to become the premier event for the hospitality and design world, it will give designers and other decision makers the opportunity to grow their understanding of industry trends and to connect with their peers. General manager for the project Cairey Slater says, “Design has become a pivotal element to creating authentic, individual guest experiences. With the hotel industry showing signs of recovering from the economic downturn, future focused developers have their eye on the modern traveller, catering for this customer with a new generation of hospitality offerings which provide more than just excellent service.” Sustainability will be integrated throughout all aspects of the event, joined by ethonomics, one of the most impactful trends emerging on the hotel design scene. Technology and connectivity will also feature strongly. The two-day Conference, themed Designing the ultimate away experience, forms the core of the event, providing delegates with essential advice and updates from this sector. An exemplary line-up of international and local industry design experts
interiors 2011, the UK’s largest interiors trade event, opened its doors to more than 26 000 interiors professionals at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham last week. It gathered together the industry’s leading figures for four days of outstanding business and professional networking. 646 companies presented their latest products across 5 halls, covering 60 000 m2. A multitude of retailers, specifiers, developers, interior designers and architects effectively sourced products from a wide array of exhibitors ranging from furniture and soft furnishings, accessories and upholstery to lighting and flooring. interiors brand director Phil Hunter commented on the event’s positive outcome: “We are extremely pleased with the show’s results. Thanks to the continuing development of the show, including introduction of the flooring section, interiors 2011 brought together the entire industry and nurtured professional business and networking for all of the sectors.” The flooring section was a very successful new addition to the show. It placed the flooring companies at the centre of the interiors industry, leveraging their business opportunities. interiors continues to set the tone for the year ahead in interior design with the latest product designs, trend forecasts and the best young talent. The show returns to the NEC next year from 22-25 January 2012.
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will share their insights on trends in their field and discuss their vision in the context of the hospitality world. Conference sessions on Day One will focus on hotel development and interior design; while Day Two will concentrate on designing facilities and services, as well as food design. Slater points out that choosing The Forum at the Turbine Hall as the venue is in synchronisation with the conference’s experience-rich ethos. “This landmark building, which started its life as a power station in the 1920s, has been transformed into a magnificent space with excellent facilities in the heart of the arts and culture precinct, Newtown.” For more information contact Samantha van den Berg, Events & Special projects at sam@tepg.co.za; cell: 082 574 2014; Tel: 011 782 7748.
Do you need… A new brochure? Copywriting? A full service is available from design to final print from Jacquerie. We also undertake research and copywriting for press releases, articles or sales leaflets. Whatever your needs, contact us for full details and rates. Dave Soons, Jacquerie Marketing cc Tel: 012 807 7012; e-mail: dsoons@mweb.co.za Fax to e-mail: 086 601 7842
W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
New face at FLOORS in Africa has appointed Joanna Papastamopoulos as Client Support Coordinator, operating as assistant to
Designing for greater sustainability is key
Business Unit Manager Roxanne Mancini, thus adding another arm to the excellent client liaison and customer service the magazine provides. Joanna spent eight years in the UK, where she worked as a Personal Banking Adviser and studied photography in which she obtained a Diploma. Returning to South Africa in December 2009, she then worked for a Disney/Britannica publisher until joining us on 1st February 2011. We wish her every success in her new position with FLOORS, and we know that clients are going to enjoy working with her.
Thought for the day! Never be afraid to try something new. Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark. A large group of professionals built the Titanic.
New offices for Lafarge Readymix Lafarge Aggregates & Readymix (part of the bourgeoning Lafarge South Africa Group), has moved offices to 35 Westfield Road in the Longmeadow Business Estate, which is located in the south-western corner of Modderfontein, Gauteng. The new telephone number for this office is 011 657 0000. The Readymix Business Unit operates 55 Readymix concrete plants strategically located throughout the country to service all sectors of the local construction industry. Concrete plants are either fixed or mobile facilities,
For Corobrik – driving for greater sustainability throughout the business is non-negotiable, as is the application of international best practice for the technologies employed to ensure the supply of the finest clay bricks and pavers to the market place. “In a world focused on growth and development, climate change will become an increasingly challenging factor. As a result we are fully committed to adding ‘environmental’ value to our brand in a society that is becoming increasingly conscious of the importance of manufacturers of products being environmentally responsible and providing products to match,” says Christie van Niekerk, manager of Corobrik Cape. “In an effort to expand our sustainability agenda, Corobrik has long identified the architectural community as key roleplayers to the future environmental integrity of our built envi-
which may be located at the customer’s construction site.
ronment,” he says. “Therefore it is fitting that we continue to
New Board appointment for Kenzan Tiles
South Africa through our support of the Architectural Student At the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University regional event, Nikhil Tricam was awarded first prize for his entry, Precinct with emphasis on the Detailed Design of a Mother &
Corporation, has announced the appoint-
Child Centre’.
ment of Stuart Berry to the main Board of
Nikhil was awarded R6 000 for his regional prize and will
Kenzan Tiles.
compete in the national event in March 2011. He also won a
Stuart has headed up Kenzan’s Gauteng Stuart Berry
the Board will give him broader responsibility for South African activities and liaison with overseas factories and principals. The Johannesburg operation has tripled the size of its business in the past three years, during which the company has become more entrenched in larger projects such as commercial parks and shopping centres, with exciting opportunities existing with eco-friendly products that are now available at Kenzan. Stuart attributes some of this success to getting the internal processes streamlined and improving their delivery and turnaround time. Being able to offer clients quality tailor-made tile solutions at affordable prices has been a vital ingredient. Having the correct staff is also key to breeding a culture of hard, careful and detailed work.
of the Year programme – now in its 24th year.”
entitled ‘Securing Our Future: The design of an Urban Health
Chris Steenekamp, chairman of Bel-Essex
operations since 2008. His appointment to
extend our commitment to the development of architects in
R3 000 prize for the best use of clay brick in his entry. He says, “I chose to make extensive use of brick masonry in my design due primarily to the sense of permanence conveyed through its tectonic, which was integral to the conceptual direction my design has taken.”
New office for FISA Floors International South Africa (FISA) has moved into new premises at 40 Jan Smuts Avenue, Forest Town, Johannesburg, and invites specifiers to visit their new showroom for a preview of their product offerings for 2011. The new telephone number is 011 486 4900 / 0861 999 121.
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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g
FLOORING questions & answers
?
What is the difference between a honed and a polished finish in natural stone floors? Both are smooth finishes: a honed surface is smooth to the touch but not reflective; polished stone has a ‘mirror’ finish provided through an abrasive process. Honed flooring surfaces do not show wear damage as dramatically as polished surfaces and therefore are more economically maintained than polished surfaces. Polished surfaces are ideally suited to low abrasive areas such as any vertical surface. When they are used as flooring, restoration processes must become a normal part of regular maintenance. I have a damaged board in my laminate floor. How can I
FLOORS, encapsulated IT PAYS TO GET THE SCREED RIGHT Because there have been a number of new screeding systems entering the market over the past few months, it pays you to examine what they can do to cut your building costs and provide a faster installation. Screeds are normally laid about 40-75mm thick onto a concrete subfloor, and people tend to forget that it is a skilled job. A screed mix should be relatively strong,
best effect a repair?
using one part cement to three parts sand, and when
It depends on how bad the damage is. Laminate floors will resist
the screed is complete it gives a smooth and level floor
most stains, dents, burns and scratches, but if you find that a scratch
to accept the selected floor finish.
or dent needs repairing, there are a few ways to achieve this. If the
In reality, there is no need to use a screed. There is noth-
board is severely damaged and needs replacing, this is best done
ing structural about screeds and some designs do not
by a professional – perhaps the original installer, if still contactable.
incorporate a screed. However, the floor beneath the
If it is a DIY floor or you don’t know who installed it – take advice
screed is not usually laid to a particularly high standard.
from the Southern African Wood & Laminate Association
There has been a marked shift towards using ready-
(Tel. 011 455 2822). If it is only minor damage, most manufacturers
mixed screeds, delivered by lorry at the beginning of
also have ‘touch up’ kits available that are ideal for small scratches
the day. In fact, only a third of sites still use site-mixed
and dents – providing a very cost-effective way of repairing your
screeds. Ready-mixed screeds come with added retar-
laminate flooring yourself.
dants to delay the set, so that it is possible to work all
What do the terms ‘Tracking’, ‘Shading’, and ‘Flattening’ mean when talking about carpets? Tracking is the effect of imprints left on the carpet by foot traffic, a phenomenon that is more common on cut-pile rather than looppile surfaces, but it is only temporary, and should disappear after vacuuming. Flattening – or a change in the ‘lay’ of the carpet pile – can be described as the more severe effect of frequent walking or other forms of traffic. This change of pile lay is often more noticeable in plain, cut-pile carpets due to the difference in the visual appearance of the side and tip of the tuft. Vacuuming and pile lifting will revive the pile temporarily, as will wet or dry methods of cleaning. Depending upon the application, however, this effect may recur frequently. Shading is the development of irregular light and dark areas on a carpet, similar to those caused by footmarks, but it is permanent. If you are considering a cut-pile carpet, remember
day with one load. The process of laying is very different to what we have grown used to with cement screeds. The biggest factor is volume of screed used due to increased depths, especially on irregular sub-bases. It is not uncommon for a specialist screeding company to receive an enquiry for a 50mm depth of screed, only to find that on site actual depths run from 40mm to 80mm, resulting in increased and unforeseen costs. Whichever system you use, ensure ample time for drying out and curing. The rule of thumb is to allow a day for every millimetre depth, so that 40-75 days is the standard time recommended. Finally, there is the issue of struc-
that whatever the fibre, all are subject to the possibility of shading.
tural or shrinkage cracking. Best
The effect is more apparent in plain, dark colours, but shading is an
practice recommends that, to
appearance characteristic and it does not affect the durability of the
avoid movement issues, screeds
carpet, nor is it considered a manufacturing defect.
should not cover an area of
There are so many species of wood. How do I select one?
more than 40m² or a distance in
The first thing you need to do is to gain the basic facts about wood
any one direction longer than
species, either by surfing the Internet or contacting the experts (see
eight metres.
SAWLFA above), because choosing a species of wood involves more
Expansion joints should sub-
than selecting a colour to match your décor. You need to under-
divide larger screed areas.
stand the texture, grain and cut that will influence the design or
Alternatively, you can place an
even the performance of the wood floor.
anti-crack mesh in the screed or
Installers will also want you to consider the mechanical properties such as dimensional stability, machinability, and ease in finishing, together with availability and cost.
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add fibres to the mix itself.
Jeremy Stewart Flooring specialist and owner of Quartz Carpet, SA.