VOL 28.2 MARCH 2010 R38 incl. VAT
FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE: Carpets • Industrial Flooring • Training & Skills Development
Decking • Contractworld Awards • Foundation of Design • Domotex 2010
Nouwens Commercial products for Offices • Executive Commercial • Churches • Shops • B&B’s
twenty ten Visit our website at www.nouwens.co.za for further Nouwens Platinum Partner and Nouwens Appointed Dealer listings,
every Hotels • Lodges • Boutiques • General Commercial • Airports The latest easicarpet innovation from Nouwens Commercial is the recently launched Twenty Ten carpet range which is manufactured in easifibre, treated with easicare and with all the easicarpet benefits. USE CLASS *** Heavy Domestic / Light Commercial* TYPE Cut Pile PILE FIBRE 100% EASIFIBRE – with EASICARE Soil Resistant Treatment WIDTH 3.66 m AVAILABILITY Std Range of 6 Colours END per 10 cm ±40 STITCH RATE per 10cm ±52 LOOPS / TUFTS per 100cm² ±2 080 PILE FIBRE MASS grams per m² ±950 TOTAL MASS grams per m² ±2 000 PILE HEIGHT ±5.5 mm TOTAL HEIGHT ±8 mm PRIMARY BACKING Woven Polypropylene Tape SECONDARY BACKING ACTIONBAC
Copenhagen
Madison Square
*** T his product has been styled for specific commercial use and will perform the same or better than other local commercial tufted polypropylene styles. For extra peace of mind, every easicarpet is endorsed with a 5 year quality guarantee, as well as a special 10 year wear guarantee.
Kirman
Twenty Ten Following on the success of Colours and the increased demand for creative commercial easicarpet solutions, Nouwens has styled the innovative Twenty Ten to the same exceptional quality standards. Twenty Ten has been specially launched as a very appealing and affordable option for the numerous projects that are being built and upgraded for the 2010 FIFA World Soccer Cup. These include lodges, guest houses, hotels, conference and entertainment venues, etc. that need to look their best for the influx of tourists and visitors later this year!
Contracta Spec
It is important to note that according to the current South African grading systems, a polypropylene tufted carpet cannot achieve higher than a light commercial rating, but Nouwens has engineered a high-twist, heat-set yarn to optimise the performance of easifibre, whilst the sophisticated multicolour effect naturally enhances the serviceability of Twenty Ten. Unique Nouwens mill-applied and heat-cured easi-care carpet protector also forms an invisible, durable shield around each fibre to help against everyday spills and soiling. Twenty Ten comes with a Five-Year Quality Guarantee as well as a Ten-Year Wear Guarantee.
Colours
or contact Nouwens Carpets direct at the following numbers 011 796 5180, 021 447 2856 or 031 502 5730.
RESIDENTIAL FLOORCOVERING
COMMERCIAL FLOORCOVERING
LAMINATE FLOORING
SPORTS TURF SYSTEMS
Our passion for the business has driven our success since inception n 1984. – Stephan Colle, Chairman
TEL 033 897-77500
w w w.belgotexfloorcoverings.com
ARTIFICIAL GRASS
OUR GREEN JOURNEY
GUIDE Adhesives / Coatings Chryso FloorworX Tile & Floor Care Zimbo’s Trading
COVER STORY Huge new product offering Fotakis Brothers is introducing an extensive programme of new products for 2010, in addition to providing its normal exemplary wholesale service to its customers. This includes new carpet collections in both wool and natural materials; Alloc, Tusk and Rhino laminates to meet the demands of all sectors; a range of bamboo flooring, and – later in the year – underlays and vinyl flooring. Watch this space! For more details go to pages 16-19.
Carpets Belgotex Floorcoverings Desso Fotakis Brothers InterfaceFLOR Nexus (Belgotex Floorcoverings) Nouwens Carpets Selborne Carpet Wholesalers Van Dyck Carpets
Photo: Shutterstock, Inc.
Ceramic, Porcelain and Stone Ferreiras Decor World San Marco Tile Centre Cleaning & Maintenance FloorworX Matco Marketing MilliCare Numatic International Sebo
37
61 V OLUME 28.2
•
91
MAR CH
•
2010
Exterior Flooring Bedson Flooring and Decor Belgotex Floorcoverings Eva-Last
p77 p93 p73 p5
p2, p44 - 45, p54 - 55 p53 Front Cover, p16 - 17 p59 p26 - 27 Inside Front Cover p76 p6, p12 - 13
Inside Back Cover p20
p104 p67 p41 p21, p80 p57
p101 p2 p95
To page 5
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Real Wood
Laminates Kährs genuine wooden floors and Quick-Step laminate floors brought to you by flooring giant FloorworX. Heading up these product divisions is Peter Geyer, well-known wood and laminate guru. For trusted advice and specifications contact Peter on 0860 346 679 or 083 380 6665.
The Flooring Solutions Company Established for over 55 years, FloorworX is the only local manufacturer of semi-flexible tiles, fully flexible vinyl sheeting and tiles – all of which carry the SANS certification for quality. FloorworX also distributes Quick-Step wood laminates, Kährs wooden floors and a comprehensive range of international resilient floorcoverings, including safety flooring, antistatic flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, static control tiles, linoleum, Novilon, rubber and sports flooring, together with a wide range of flooring adhesives, accessories and floorcare materials.
www.floorworx.co.za National Call Centre 0860 346 679
GUIDE Rhoms Timberworld Zimbo’s Trading Flooring Contractors Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting Industrial, Resin & Concrete Flooring a.b.e. Construction Chemicals Cemkolor Flowcrete SA Industrial Flooring Systems Mapei SA Industrial Linings Sika SA Tile & Floor Care Tuff Floors
p96 - 97 p5
p90
p66 p72 p68 - 69 p75 p74 p79 p65 p73 p76
Raised Access Flooring Bates Access Flooring
p60
Resilient Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings FloorworX Transit Floor Tiles Tuff Floors
p2 p7 p64 p76
Seamless Flooring Quartz Carpet
continued from page 3 Training & Skills Development Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy FloorworX Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting Numatic International Wood, Laminates & Bamboo Azura Distributors Barrow Flooring Bedson Flooring and Decor Belgotex Floorcoverings FloorworX Fotakis Brothers Rhoms Timberworld Zimbo’s Trading Accessories and other 3M Frame Fibres Genesis Kirk Marketing Pretoria Institute for Architecture Transiton Transport (Transportation)
p84 - 85 p86 - 87 p90 p80
p23 Back Cover p101 p2 p4 Front Cover, p16 - 17 p96 - 97 p5
p21 p56 p25 p15 p107 p102 - 103
Note: Editorials excluded, p3, p9
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 r c h 2 0 1 0
This year started off so much better 2008 started off in the dark as we had so much load shedding that we all had to buy generators which are now somewhere in the garage between the weedeater and the bicycles. Then 2009 came with everyone’s eyes wide and whis-
Leading the way with innovative products
pering recession, recession, recession. This year, although always stuck in traffic, people are more positive and business is picking up. The flooring industry is alive and well. Now that’s AYOBA! In this issue of FLOORS our main features focus on the
In this issue of FLOORS in Africa Van Dyck Carpets is highlighting its superb Consulate range of looselay carpet tiles, together with a full range of luxurious cut-pile carpets now available for both commercial and residential applications.
carpet, industrial and exterior flooring sectors. We also report on training and skills development. Carpets – the fast-moving sector! There are so many developments, technical advances and other ‘happenings’ in the carpet sector that the specifiers,
Consulate is a high-quality loop-pile, linearpatterned range available in 13 very attractive colours to suit any décor, manufactured to the highest local and international standards.
designers and developers are hard-pressed to keep up
The same goes for the latest range of cut-pile carpets that has been reworked by Van Dyck Carpets and reintroduced into the market with the new styles, colours and construction meeting the demands of today’s fashion trends.
tion and a complete report on Domotex 2010.
Please have a look out for Michigan, Embassy and Diplomat and get your samples.
to date with all the trends and new technologies that are regularly appearing. FLOORS keeps you up to date with the latest informaAddressing the need It’s generally recognised that skills and workmanship upliftment is the only way forward for both the flooring industry and the country in general. Many flooring manufacturers, suppliers and contractors are operating
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
Founder: Schalk Burger
Editor: Liezel van der Merwe Cell 082 7700 799
Financial Director:
innovative programmes to correct this problem, and this
All these ranges are made from 100% Xentrys heat-set nylon 6 yarns – a proven brand for many years with a higher lustre for deep and vibrant colour and manufactured by means of the latest technology for high performance and quality.
Fanie Venter
feature will look at what the industry is doing.
News Editor:
Van Dyck Carpets is also introducing a new cutpile range from Balta, the celebrated Belgian manufacturer, under the brand name of Design Jewel – a woven Wilton product available in six attractive colours, offering great value for money with a very plush feel and rich look thanks to its heavy yarn weight and woven construction.
There are so many developments in the industrial floor-
Please read more on pages 12-13 and 50-51 or contact Van Dyck Carpets on 031 913 3800.
Have a look at the workshops available for this year. Invest in your staff, yourself and our country’s future! The pretty workhorse ing sector that many systems have moved beyond the
Dave Soons Tel 012 807 7012
Business Unit Manager: Roxanne Mancini Cell 082 779 5751
realm of ‘industrial’ flooring and entered the design arena
Business Unit Co-ordinator:
in a big way. It has become an extremely hi-tech and
Madelein Smith
highly competitive market.
Sales Executive:
See what the workhorses can do for your next project – page 61. We also showcase the best in decking which is always one of the most beautiful exterior floorcoverings. Enjoy this issue of FLOORS!
Margaux Brink Cell 083 283 1116
Design and Layout: Margita Thiele
Financial Manager: Sietske Rossouw
Proofreader: Signa Evans & Hesca Joubert Liezel van der Merwe
REPRO & PRINTING: Business Print Centre
Resilie n t Fl o o r i n g
The Flooring Solutions Company Established for over 55 years, FloorworX is the only local manufacturer of semi-flexible tiles, fully flexible vinyl sheeting and tiles – all of which carry the SANS certification for quality. FloorworX also distributes Quick-Step wood laminates, Kährs wooden floors and a comprehensive range of international resilient floorcoverings, including safety flooring, antistatic flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, static control tiles, linoleum, Novilon, rubber and sports flooring, together with a wide range of flooring adhesives, accessories and floorcare materials.
www.floorworx.co.za National Call Centre 0860 346 679
Fa s h i o n a n d D e s i g n
The winners of this year’s Awards were: Category 1: Best Modern Design Standard Chuk Palu Rugs, Burya Category 2: Best Modern Design Superior Zollanvari AG, Mirage
Domotex Hannover provided the setting for the presentation of the Carpet Design Awards for 2010.
Category 4: Best Traditional Nomadic Design Superior
Offering prize money amounting to 10 000 euros,
Hanif Sons (Pvt) Ltd, Quicksand Caricature
the Carpet Design Awards celebrate exceptional
Category 5: Best Traditional Nomadic Design Deluxe
design, originality and quality in the market seg-
Creation Roesner, Mrirt Category 6: Best Traditional Workshop/Formal Design
ment “Handmade carpets”.
Woven Legends, Inc./Özkent Hali, Tabriz
A total of 124 carpets from 15 countries were entered in the competi-
Category 7: Best Old/Antique Carpet
tion for this year’s Awards, and a panel of judges comprising interna-
SMY (Amin Motamedi), Bijar rug
tionally acclaimed experts selected the winning entries from the 30 carpets that went through to the final round. The chairman of the panel, David Sorgato, commented, “Domotex is truly the only place in Europe where you can see such cutting-edge design and creativity. It was utterly exhilarating and challenging for me as the Chairman of the Jury this year to have such a variety of
Category 3: Best Modern Design Deluxe Theo Keller GmbH, Mosaic
Category 8: Best Collection Modern Jan Kath GmbH, Radi Deluxe Collection Category 9: Best Collection Traditional Woven Legends, Inc./Özkent Hali, Shirvan Collection
opinions about each shortlisted entry from my colleagues who come
Category 10: Best Innovation
from such diverse backgrounds.”
Angel Trading, On the Rocks
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fa s h i o n a n d D e s i g n
Flooring directly over tiles “Every day my business does not do turnover I lose R8 000. That is why I was delighted with the speed of delivery on this beautiful floor,” says Mr. Sacks, a retail shop owner. Imagine installing the world’s most appealing and fastest growing floor, directly over your tiles! Well, now you can! Transform your home, living areas, entertainment patios and swimming pool surrounds, offices or commercial buildings with this revolutionary, high-adhesion Quartz Carpet seamless stone flooring system. The traditional way of updating old tiled floors, can be costly, dusty and messy (the tiles need to be chopped up and removed). This method is intrusive, time-consuming and inconvenient, if you need to re-tile an area which is being lived or worked in. Once tiles are chopped up and the rubble removed from site, the floors then need to be re-screeded with new levels. This new screed needs to cure for a minimum of 28 days and only then can the new flooring system or tiles be installed. Under these circumstances, commercial or retail operations can lose
Quartz Carpet has the ability to seamlessly integrate spaces, to create an indoor/outdoor flow. Quartz Carpet applicators
tens of thousands of rands, as they would need to close their business
are trained to ensure that these floors meet all requirements of
for extended time periods to renovate.
thresholds, doorways and sliding doors at their existing levels and
The popularity of Quartz Carpet can be attributed to the speed (over 100m2 can be installed per day) and convenience of installing
heights. This unique seamless stone flooring system is made from select-
the product, as well as the wonderful texture and seamless nature of
ed sustainable glacial stones and resins. It creates a slip-resistant
this natural stone floor.
texture that is natural, durable and smooth. It is available in nine
Quartz Carpet can be applied directly over tiles and in most
colourfast shades, and is 100% UV stable.
instances can be installed in just one or two days! This means that the
Quartz Carpet
area needs only to be left un-trafficked for a day or two, rather than a
Tel: 086 1782 789
month or two!
Website:
The cost saving would be on the relocation costs as well as time,
www.quartzcarpet.co.za
cleaning and inconvenience. The thinness (6mm) of the finished prod-
uct also means that door heights seldom need to be adjusted.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fa s h i o n a n d D e s i g n
Now in its tenth year, contractworld remains the biggest forum for architecture and interior design, and is a main feature of the popular Domotex exhibition every year.
C
ontractworld comprises three main elements: contractworld. congress – with lectures and
forums on the keynote categories Office, Hotel, Shop and Education/ Training/Hardware; contractworld. award – international architectural awards in these categories for innovative interior design concepts (shown below); and the contractworld.exhibition – where manufacturers present new floorcoverings and other products for the contracting business.
Contractworld 2010 is a resounding success again contractworld.award 2010 The first prizes in the 2010 contractworld.award have gone to entrants from Spain, Austria, Japan and Germany. Numerous top architectural and interior design offices competed for Europe’s most important and lucrative award for innovative interior design concepts, now worth a total of 60 000 euros in prize money. Just how important the contractworld.award is in the eyes of the worldwide architectural community can be seen from the level of international participation. More than half of the 623 projects submitted – 356 to be precise – came from offices outside Germany. The jury was looking for innovative interior design concepts in the four categories Offices, Hotels, Shops and Education/Healthcare. The principal criteria on which the entries were judged were quality, functionality and aesthetic value, as well as innovative treatment of space, materials, colour and surface texture or finish.
Shops/Showrooms/Exhibition stands Best of Category: Tierra, Tokyo Architect: Ryo Matsui Architects Inc., Tokyo, Japan The Tierra hairdressing salon is located in Tokyo, Japan. A whole series of hairdressing chairs are lined up inside a clearly structured space. A separate area is accessed through a screen of filigree arches. These
10
arches, infilled with mirrors, are continued along both long walls of the salon.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fa s h i o n a n d D e s i g n
Offices/Administration buildings Best of category: Landscape Hall, Manresa, Spain.
Education/Training/ Healthcare
Architects: bailo + rull/ADD +Architectura, Barcelona, Spain
Best of category: The Technical
The Town Hall in Manresa in Spain stands right in the town’s central marketplace. A new extension
University of Kaiserslautern
has been inserted into the existing building. Despite the resulting unconventional form, which
The University wins the first
stands in stark contrast to the existing architecture of the old town, the new extension has been
prize in this category with
successfully integrated into the original stone building by the use of the same colour paint finish
the project ‘Mini-campus
throughout.
pfaffenberg – Building 1 at TU
The jury’s verdict: The jury was fascinated by the way an addition to a historic building can both
Kaiserslautern’. For the conver-
fit in and yet retain its own distinctive character.
sion of the architecture faculty building at the Technical University of Kaiserslautern all the internal partitions from the 1950s were removed to open up the interior and create bright new, almost transparent, spaces. The jury’s verdict: The project brings out the power and beauty of what was already there before, and opens up new ways of appreciating existing spaces and interiors. Further information about these awards and contractworld in general can be found online at www.contractworld.com.
Hotels/Spas/Catering facilities Best of Category: Million Donkey Hotel, Prata Sannita, Italy Architect: feld72, Vienna, Austria This is a community project devised by a group of architects with the active involvement of the local village population. The brief was to restore the link between two parts of the village that had been separated by empty buildings. The result is a rambling hotel complex made up of all sorts of very different rooms and functional areas, which extends over various buildings and former ruins. The jury’s verdict: “An exemplary project, which has secured the continued existence and future of a social group and a
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village.”
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Whatever the interior we’ve got the floor covered! And what better to cover it with than the superb Consulate range of loop-pile, linear-patterned looselay tiles? This high-quality range is available in 13 very attractive colours to suit any décor, and comes with a 5-year guarantee, Stain Shield protection and anti-allergenic properties as well as a 10-year warranty against excessive fibre wear. It is manufactured according to the highest local and international quality standards and has been fully tested in Van Dyck Carpets’ renowned Torture Tunnel. Van Dyck Carpets is an SABS ISO 9000 listed company.
When nothing but the best will do – remember to use Consulate.
TOLL FREE: 0800 CARPET (0800227738) ww.vandyckcarpets.com Carpets are better for allergy patients and all Van Dyck Carpets have the required VOC ratings.
Products & Ser vices
What previous experience do you have in this industry? Ferreiras is part of the Iliad Africa group and I have been with Iliad since 2008. Prior to Iliad I was involved in property and development for around seven years. With my background as a Quantity Surveyor this was the most obvious industry to get stuck into. What duties are involved in your new position? As General Manager I have a wide range of responsibilities that includes sales and marketing through procurement and logistics. What are your main objectives in this post? It is my goal to ensure that Ferreiras is at the forefront of supplying the latest trends and innovations in the tiling and sanitaryware industry. We source our products from leading manufacturers around the globe and we aim to deliver to our discerning clients in a way that will make it a value proposition for them. How do you see the future with Ferreiras? I am quite upbeat about the future. We have a great team with a mix of experience and youthful energy; added to that we are a passionate bunch that relish the challenges presented by tough economic conditions as well as determined competitors. What is new at Ferreiras? In the last couple of months we have introduced some exciting new initiatives like our in-house Interior Design Studio, our Architectural Library and our first new look showroom in Bloemfontein.
As part of the continuing programme of development
Is Ferreiras under any “green” or
and improved customer service, Ferreiras Décor World
We do not see “Green” initiatives or BBBEE
has recently appointed Pieter Pretorius as its new General
as anything other than opportunities. We
Manager. Recognised as being an experienced profession
compliance and we have identified several
in the trade, FLOORS in Africa asked him about his
14
BBBEE pressure?
new position.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
currently focus on achieving a Level 6 initiatives which may assist us in bettering our green footprint.
Products & Ser vices
Quality profiles are advised Laminate flooring is predominately fitted as a floating floor and will generally experience expansion and contraction in the South African varying climate environment, and Kirk recommends Aluminium- and PVC-based profiles as the most suitable for these applications.
A
luminium is the most popular, offering the widest range of profiles and giving the speci-
fier the final solution to almost all flooring scenarios – including expansion, transition, finish, end, step
Border
Step
Finish
Transition
and adapt shapes used to solve expansion and contract gaps against sliding doors, wide expanses of flooring, staircases, transition between different flooring types, and ending off a laminate floor to a
Expansion cover
screed or vinyl and curvable floor types. Dural’s quality Multifloor range is ideal for retrofit situations, where a profile has been forgotten. This range is available in transition and expansion and is fitted with plastic dowels. Available in 92cm and 270cm lengths – ideal for contracts and DIY. Multifloor can be fitted on laminates and wood
Transition cover
floors, and is of German manufacture. Kirk’s quality “M.Trim” range of laminate trims is aluminium and available in the most popular range of anodised colours, complementing most floors. “Bendi” is a top of the range PVC curvable cover available in transition, expansion, ramp and end profiles. Available in wood foiled and solid PVC
Finish cover
colours. Manufactured in the UK. For more information visit the website www.kirk. co.za or contact your nearest Kirk branch for details. Kirk Marketing Head Office: 011 444 1441 Cape Town: 021 949 2226 Durban: 031 564 1175 Port Elizabeth: 0860 547573
End cover
Fly me to the moon… If all the carpets sold in a year in Great Britain were laid end to end, they would go all the way to the moon and halfway back again.
GAUTENG Tel: +27 11 444 1441 Fax: +27 11 444 1165 E-mail: sales@kirk.co.za Website: www.kirk.co.za CAPE TOWN Tel: +27 21 949 2226 Fax: +27 21 949 4531 KWAZULU NATAL Tel: +27 31 564 1175 Fax: +27 31 564 1143 PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 0860 547573 Fax: 086 688 4980
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
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oc oc oc oc oc oc oc oc oc oc
Products & Ser vices
Fotakis ad dps
fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis bamboo fotakis F L Obamboo ORS March fotakis bamboo
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fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis fotakis 2010 fotakis
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Products & Ser vices
Fotakis ad dps
floor splendour! FOTAKIS BROTHERS brings you the latest in flooring splendour! Wool Carpets, Bamboo, Laminates, Natural Fibre Flooring and the best of South African manufacturers. More variety from the company you trust!
Call now for samples Johannesburg 011626 3000
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wool collection wool collection wool collection wool collection wool collection wool collection wool collection wool collection woolF Lcollection OORS March wool collection
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tuks tusk tusk tusk tusk tusk tusk tusk tusk tusk
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a a a a a a a a a a
Products & Ser vices
Major expansion for a true flooring wholesaler! E
stablished in 1936, Fotakis Brothers has established an unim-
dedication that is the backbone of Fotakis Brothers and provides cus-
peachable reputation as a true wholesaler, which means that
tomers with great peace of mind,” he says.
they do not deal direct with the consumer, and do not install any
fleet of vehicles has been established for direct delivery to clients,
to the trade. In the capable hands of Peter Fotakis and his three
which enables the company to provide a continuing and excellent
partners Fotakis Brothers today is one of the leading national
customer service of which they are justifiably proud.
floorcovering distributors – and by far the oldest.
In addition, Fotakis Brothers understands the needs of its customers
This enables the company to specialise in the wholesale distri-
and has carried out intensive investigations into international prod-
bution of broadloom carpets, natural fibre imported flooring, area
ucts and identified products that will now be sold under its Private
rugs, solid wood, bamboo and laminate floorcoverings sourced
Collection label.
from many countries, and all accessories associated with the installation of flooring. “Having been in existence for nearly three-quarters of a cen-
The product basket has expanded in striving to put their clients in a position where they can offer great products to encourage consumers to buy from them, as opposed to going to other outlets to buy
tury, Fotakis Brothers is here to stay, but the management teams
their floorcoverings. Clients are also provided with many alternative
include young blood. In all three branches the sons of the direc-
options – all part of the brilliant client service the company provides.
tors are coming into the business with innovative ideas and new drive,” says director George Prinsloo. “For example, Peter Fotakis’ son Stratis is in Johannesburg;
18
To service their extensive client base properly, a comprehensive
floorcoverings. They are a dedicated wholesaler and distributor
A range of solid high-quality bamboo flooring is amongst the latest new products introduced by Fotakis Brothers. Available in two colours with complementary profiles, this is a click installation system – tap
Manny Stefano is in Durban with his sons Curt and Karl; and Keith
and go – which is extremely easy to install and very well priced. The
Ruthenberg in Cape Town with his son Lee. It is this tradition and
company feels this is an awesome product with which to meet the
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Products & Ser vices
increasing demand for innovative, eco-friendly floorcoverings. Fotakis Brothers is also a major distributor of the world-renowned Alloc laminate floorcovering, which incorporates the unique aluminium locking system that revolutionised the fixing methods of this genre. Today this mechanical locking system is well established in the market, having set the standard for the whole industry, and Alloc is in a leading position amongst flooring producers in the laminate flooring market. High quality and good designs characterises these products. Alloc is a continuing innovator in new technology and development of new directions in design of laminate flooring that Fotakis Brothers is proud to represent in this country.
Other laminate products included in the Private Collection of Fotakis Brothers are Tusk, which is in the mid-price range and has proved to be of considerable interest in the marketplace, and Rhino in the lower price bracket which provides excellent value for money in various colours. Carpets, of course, is the successful cornerstone of the Fotakis Brothers sales programme, which now includes a beautiful collection in wool, with two ranges for commercial applications: Milan and Paris, and three ranges for residential carpets: Athens, Venice and Vienna. Also included is the Natural collection, comprising four different products available in coir, sisal, hemp/jute and sea grass. Fotakis Brothers is extremely proud of this extensive range that compliments the existing ranges from local manufacturers, and as George Prinsloo says, “Architects and designers can specify these products with confidence. It is a brilliant range and will perform well in all sectors of the market�. Anyone interested in learning more about the products, and service that Fotakis Brothers provides, should contact the nearest branch shown below, or visit the website www.fotakisbrothers.co.za. Fotakis Brothers Johannesburg: 011 626 3000 Cape Town: 021 933 2620 Durban: 031 705 3331
19
Website: www.fotakisbrothers.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Products & Ser vices
T
he selection of high quality local and imported ceramic and porcelain wall and floor tiles as well as sanitaryware on display at the San Marco Tile Centre encompasses the sophistication and warmth of Italy with a unique South African flair,
but even this has been enhanced by the unique porcelain tile range recently obtained from Florim of Italy under the brand name of Slim/4. Described as a revolutionary new 4mm thick porcelain stoneware tile range, Slim/4 utilises an entirely different technology from that used to manufacture products currently on the market. In fact, the tiles are made by a pressing rather than a compaction process, which makes it possible to create a product that offers excellent resistance to the broadest possible range of stresses, that has no need for the incorporation of reinforcing fibre media, and that eliminates problems associated with material tensioning and stability after installation, whilst simultaneously facilitating cutting, drilling and maintenance procedures. Easily installed over existing floors, Slim/4 covers these substrates without requiring time-consuming demolition work and reduces the times and problems that are implicit in renovation projects. It also does not require special installation techniques and reduces the need to remove existing doors and windows, and avoids the cost of removal and disposal of existing floorcoverings. Fully compliant with international standards, Slim/4 offers technical characteristics comparable to porcelain stoneware tiles of greater
Revolutionary porcelain tiles
the in-house tile specialists can help establish the choice of tile, quantity and style. In fact, San Marco offers practical support at every stage of the job - from onsite measuring to technical and dĂŠcor advice. Why not visit the San Marco Tile Centre near you for the best in product and technical assistance. Contact them at the numbers shown below, or visit the website www.sanmarcotile.co.za thickness, and reduces the deadweight on loading structures and
San Marco Tile Centre
substrates.
Tel: 011 918 3800
Easy to clean, Slim/4 needs no special maintenance requirements. These tiles are also available in 11mm thickness, and both are manu-
E-mail: sales@sanmarcotile.co.za
factured in 60mm x 60mm and 60mm x 120mm sizes.
Website: www.sanmarcotile.co.za
Strategically situated in Boksburg, Bryanston, Robertsham and Midrand, San Marco caters for markets with diverse tastes, meticulous requirements and an assortment of budgets. The top priority and policy of the company revolves around helping customers find products and design that suit their personalised taste. Coupled with this is the assurance of a stress-free and pleasurable shopping experience that will provide each client with a comprehensive and cost- effective tiling solution.
20
Fax: 011 918 3847
Although the endless variety of products and styles available at San Marco can make it seem impossible to make the right decision,
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Products & Ser vices
Brand leaders introduce Numatic International is a specialist provider of cleaning products for industrial and hospitality industries as well as residential applications and, with over 40 years of experience, the company has grown into an international cleaning phenomenon.
N
umatic South Africa is perfectly positioned for sustainable
standards will remain supreme and take our partnership to new
growth as it introduces a fresh initiative for 2010, having recently
heights.”
entered into a partnership agreement with 3M South Africa. This
FLOORS spoke to Eddie Matthews of the mammoth Prestige Group
partnership will ensure that customers have ongoing access to expert
who attended the launch event for this initiative, and he feels that
floorcare advice.
this will impact the market in a very positive manner.
3M is a recognised leader in research
“The partnership between two big com-
and development producing thousands of
panies such as these, with massive networks
innovative products for dozens of diverse
throughout the country and reputations for
markets, with operations in more than 65
high quality and customer service, means
countries.
that a far wider coverage will be attained, and
The partnership means that Numatic is
both the industry and end-users will benefit
now an official distributor of 3M floorcare
considerably as a result.”
products, including the high-quality 3M floor-
Janine concludes, “Our motto for 2010 was
care pads. 3M product manager Guinevere
provided by Mahatma Ghandi, who said:
Thomas says that this is a major step for both
“We must be the change we wish to see in the
companies and a first for Numatic.
world”. Our initiative with 3M is the epitome
“Numatic now has access to all our floor-
of this concept, and will be the guide for
ing technology within the 3M Building
considerable success and growth in the
& Commercial Services Division,” says
future.”
Guinevere. “Cleaning is a science, and we
In the simplest terms, what this means is
need to bring that science to the cleaners of
that, by virtue of the product range being
South Africa. That is why the combination of
fully integrated, and in many cases inter-
the training resources of both companies will
locked, the majority of customer needs can
be an important function in the future.”
be satisfied - whether big or small – thus
Janine Lotz, sales manager for Numatic, agrees. “The partnership
enabling Numatic distributors to expand their business and build a
with 3M will allow us to grow together, and provides a platform for
relationship with each and every customer in providing a better and
us to build on our existing infrastructure. Therefore, this initiative will
more comprehensive service.
unlock many opportunities for both parties,” she says.
Numatic International
“Numatic South Africa boasts a passion for the floorcare and clean-
Tel: 0861 numatic (686284)
ing industry and offers a high standard of service to its customers,” she continues. “We are no stranger to providing consumers with the best value for their money, and strive to successfully keep customers happy.” “We look forward to a promising future with 3M and are honoured
21
to be associated with them. I believe that, together, our brands and
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Products & Ser vices
making a final decision on the flooring. Visit the site and click on Room Designer to activate this fun and creative feature. Azura Distributors, a retailer’s wooden paradise, claims to be the first to introduce the clic system to the local market, and is now introducing another innovation, with an environmentally friendly clic Bamboo flooring. Bamboo is the latest trend in flooring at the moment and the brand added to the Azura range is the celebrated Style Bamboo Flooring. This strand-woven bamboo is of the highest quality available, and its revolutionary uniclic fixing system ensures easy installation with a perfectly finished floor. Sytle Bamboo is also a green product, making it even more attractive to the retailer, the public,
The Best of all Wood Worlds Experts in the field of laminate flooring since 1998, Azura Distributors has now extended its offering of wood flooring to bamboo and engineered wood.
A
For the real wood lovers that want natural wood with the added advantage of being easy to maintain, why not look at Azura’s latest import, BKB Engineered Wood? This offers true wood décors and incorporates a clic system which ensures easy installation.
zura is one of South Africa’s foremost
house design team, putting Balterio up with
importers and distributors of high-quality
– if not way ahead of – other laminate sup-
these innovative and high-quality
laminate, engineered and bamboo floorcover-
pliers. From the Azura Website (www.azura.
products, contact Azura at the num-
ings, with an exemplary reputation for cus-
co.za) one can be linked to the Baletrio website
bers shown below.
tomer service and reliability, and with a sales
which has won an award for being the best
Azura Distributors
programme that provides a wide selection of
website in Europe for 2008. The Azura website
Tel: 011 837 8462
décors and designs.
also enables you to create your own room
Fax: 011 839 1964
and change furniture, wall colour and match
E-mail: info@azura.co.za
your favourite Balterio laminate design before
Website: www.azura.co.za
With over 100 ranges to choose from, the up-to-date approach of Azura ensures that the South African public is always in touch with the latest trends and designs from around the globe, having always associated itself with only the leading manufacturers and brands, thus ensuring the best quality for both domestic and commercial use. Those who are undecided about whether to use engineered wood, bamboo or a high-quality laminate for their next flooring project, need look no further than Azura Distributors, which is importing and stocking the wood product from BKB Parquet (Malaysia); bamboo flooring from the celebrated Style programme(Australia); and the best in laminate flooring from Balterio (Belgian) and Euro Laminate (Germany). Balterio has a production capacity of over 20
22
the market, designers and decorators.
million square metres and its state-of-the-art factory is fully integrated with its own in-
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
For further information on any of
Importers and Distributors of internationally known quality brands
The best of all worlds! SOLID bamboo
Australia
Laminate
Belgium
engineered wood
Germany
Malaysia
Azura Distributors | www.azura.co.za | 011 837 8462 | info@azura.co.za
Visit our newly launched website at www.azura.co.za and explore with the online room designer.
Products & Ser vices
Providing the Genesis was established by Aidan Bruce in Middlesbrough in the northeast of England during 1989 and since then has developed and expanded into one of the biggest and most respected manufacturers and suppliers of finishing profiles for the ceramic tile market.
A
truly global brand, Genesis is now available worldwide provid-
of the metal trim profiles. A bespoke service of colour matching to
ing innovative solutions to the everyday problems encountered
over 400 colours is also available on request.
by contractors, specifiers and the DIY enthusiast. In 1996, Genesis
Other flagship products within the Genesis sales programme are
received the Queen’s Award for Export by achieving sales to over 100
PVC Trim Plus; PVC 4D; Mosaic Edge Trims, aluminium listellos, and
overseas countries.
movement joints to name just a few.
Part of the company’s extensive growth programme included enter-
The bespoke manufacturing of product to suit individual project
ing into an agreement with Tile & Floor Care (TFC) in May 1995 as the
requirements is another feature of the service that Genesis and TFC
sole stockist and distributor of Genesis products in South Africa for
can provide.
both the retail and contractor markets – a venture which has proved to be highly successful.
Recent examples of this service include: special movement joints supplied to a huge shopping centre in Aberdeen, UK; work continu-
At Genesis you will find the perfect solution to a host of different
ing at Heathrow Terminal 5, having already supplied 300 lengths of a
finishing solutions for both floor and wall installations. The range is
bespoke stair nosing profile; and various projects currently underway
unique and not only is it claimed to be the largest of its type in the
in Dubai, Doha and Oman.
world, but it is the result of years of interaction with professional
The entire range emanates from a large factory complex in
installers, builders and designers – giving customers the right product
Stokesley, North Yorkshire, UK, which also incorporates offices, consid-
and advice to provide a superb, long-lasting finish.
erable warehousing space, and has three extrusion lines operating 12
The range of metal profiles manufactured by Genesis is without doubt one of the most comprehensive available. Providing solutions
hours, three days per week. So what does the future hold for Genesis? Currently (and part of
for wall and floor installations, there is a variety of profile shapes,
an ongoing development programme), the company is hard at work
sizes and finish. The metal profile range offers products in alumini-
developing new floor finishing profiles, flooring tools, floorcare prod-
um, brass and stainless steel – providing function, performance and
ucts and various design elements for standard ceramic tile profiles.
aesthetics. This means that this extensive range of profiles and finishes is avail-
Anyone wishing to know more about Genesis and its extensive range of finishing products – including full profile specifications
able to suit most domestic and commercial applications. In addition
– should contact TFC at the toll free number 0800 00 6173, or visit the
to the standard profiles there are formable options available in most
website www.tfc.co.za.
Park your grass on the car! Phill Hunter of Multiturf in Durban recently completed what has got to be this year’s most way out carpet installation, when what is colloquially known as a ‘mozzy cab’ was completely decorated with artificial turf to resemble a football field for Suncoast in preparation for the forthcoming World Cup Soccer event.
T
he installation required a special combination of materials, using a clear vinyl material to protect the paintwork on the
car, and then the ‘turf’ was applied with a traditional adhesive – including the cutting-in of the white ‘touchlines’. Duraturf from Belgotex Floorcoverings and Tiger Turf from Van
24
Dyck Carpets were the two artificial grass products used on this
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
unusual application. Not something you see every day, but it certainly highlights the versatility of this type of material which is being produced by local carpet companies and is in great demand for both residential and commercial applications.
0 6173
Available from:
Toll Free 0800 00 6173
www.tfc.co.za Toll Free 0800 00 6173 www.tfc.co.za
www.tfc.co.za
TOLL FREE 0800 00 6173
www.tfc.co.za
Projects
Great floors at Free State University Library Over 13 000m² of floor tiles were supplied by
these tiles were selected because of their high-wear qualities and the fact that the library layout is often changed, which is
Nexus (the commercial carpet division of Belgotex
where floor tiles of this nature really come into their own.
Floorcoverings) for the eight levels of the
accommodate for any localised wear or damage to tiles that may
“We also purchased 10% more tiles than were needed, to need to be replaced in the future,” he said.
SASOL Library at the University of the Free State
The flooring contractor for this auspicious project was Raadzaal Matlokaal of Bloemfontein who has worked for this
in Bloemfontein.
architectural practice on several occasions before; in fact they installed the floor tiles when this building was first built 23
B
years ago, and had the job of removing these self-stick tiles
throughout this refurbishment project, and were specified by the
literally tens of thousands of books on shelves in this building
architect for being of high quality and suitable for the very heavy foot
which would have presented a massive logistical problem if
traffic that this facility experiences on a daily basis.
they were all to be moved, notwithstanding the fact that they
alsan Origami tufted level cut loop tiles from the French manufacturer were provided in the standard size of 500mm x 500mm – in a distinctive green flecked colour – for use
26
Rohan Viljoen of Huneberg Viljoen Architects of Bloemfontein said
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
before laying the Balsan product. “However, this job presented some unusual difficulties for the floor layer,” says managing director Dodds Pringle. “There are
must all go back in exactly the same order!” he says.
Projects
“To overcome this, we moved the smaller shelves with the help of the library staff, and jacked up each large shelf individually to allow the tiles to be laid underneath,” he says. Raadzaal Matlokaal was established in 1964 and claims to be the oldest contractor in the Free State, but Dodds said this is the first time they have fitted Balsan tiles. “I was very impressed with their quality, and the low-profile loop pile is certainly the right specification for this application. These were laid using a tacky adhesive that allows for the tiles to be uplifted easily, if required.” In conclusion, Johan Wasserman of Nexus says, “We are very proud to have been selected to supply the floor tiles for this prestigious project, which we rate as being one of the best installations we were involved with during 2009.” “Nexus offers a range of products designed to expand the floorcovering options available to architects, specifiers and designers, and is currently supplying products to customers throughout the world, so providing the right product for this specific application was all part of the service,” he says. Nexus (division of Belgotex Floorcoverings) Tel: 033 897 7500 Fax: 033 897 7700 E-mail: nexus@carpet.co.za Website: www.nexuscarpets.co.za
27 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Domotex
Despite the effects of most of the world coming out of a major recession, Domotex Hannover 2010 ended with a substantial rise in attendance. Over the four days of the show, some 40 000 professionals turned out to admire the products offered by 1 395 companies from over 70 different nations.
28 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Domotex
”With exhibitor numbers holding steady and a 12% growth in
bers of the skilled trades from Europe compete with each other.
visitor attendance, we have improved on last year’s results in spite
Initiative for Safer Working Practice – here the focus is on the
of the tough economic climate. Domotex has given the industry
health and safety of floor fitters, with practical demonstrations
some real momentum and charted the way ahead for the coming
taking place every day.
year. The industry is starting 2010 on a confident note,” remarked
Skilled Trades Forum – a lecture programme for the skilled trades,
Stephan Ph. Kühne, member of the Deutsche Messe Managing
where specialists discuss the challenges, opportunities and risks
Board and with responsibility for Domotex.
confronting floor fitters.
“This success provides an indication of an improving economic climate and demonstrates that our measures to fine-tune this flagship fair to the needs of the market have been right on the
The Carpet Cup – Innovative and creative carpet outlets were singled out for awards in various categories. And, of course, no Domotex exhibition would be the same with-
mark. This translates into even more tangible benefits for our
out the popular 2010 contractworld forum. This was the tenth
exhibitors and their clientele.”
anniversary of this international forum for architects and interior
This year the section reserved for handmade carpets and rugs
designers, and this year it was based on a new and enhanced
was moved to a larger location, and new special displays for spe-
concept, with numerous international speakers invited to present
cific target groups were provided throughout the exhibition.
their views.
The new trend show Souk Deluxe presented a diverse range of
The new concept included the provision of a networking hub
these handmade items, and showcased the trends that can be
for the contract flooring sector with even more presentations and
expected for the following year.
panel discussions being made available. This included theme-
The Carpet Design Awards competition for handmade carpets was as popular as ever, and the winners have been announced in this issue of FLOORS. These events formed part of the line-up of special events provided by Domotex, which also included: FloorForum – a trend forum for high-class carpets and textile floorcoverings – also reported on separately in this issue. European Competition for Interior Furnishing – where young mem-
focused forums, guided tours for the design professionals, highimpact product presentations and informative workshops. The 2010 contractworld awards are featured in this issue of FLOORS. Roxanne Mancini of FLOORS in Africa attended this year’s exhibition, and her views are shown within this feature. The next DOMOTEX HANNOVER runs from 15 to 18 January 2011.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
29
Domotex
Always a source of innovation and inspiration, the exhibitors at this year’s Domotex event in Hannover during January did not disappoint. Here we bring you a selection of some of the new ideas and trends for your enjoyment and information.
1
A new rug, a new emotion from every angle, a new mood for every season… using a highly technical process called Variable Surface Technology a new range is introduced
called Elements – found in its Noble Fibres Collection – which creates gorgeous textural and natural rugs. www.stepevi.com
3
4
For 35 years this company has been providing innovative carpet design with extraordinary variations, and now provides more than 1000 different designs and colour shades.
Hi-tech brand fibres shape the interplay between light and dark colours,
1
soft and shining visual effects as well as high and low structures and all to be found in the current Object Carpet
2
Web Collection.
opens up new horizons in form,
tecture, and all woven carpet floor-
function and design, enabling
ings are extremely hardwearing and
architects to design high-qual-
make a perfect choice for high-traffic
ity, creative room architecture
areas such as administrative buildings,
aimed at the future.
hotels, retail stores or museums.
The collection is divided into four
A new textile carpet tile concept that deliberately
product groups, according to the
breaks with tradition and
artistic demands of modern archi-
4
www.object-carpet.com
Encompassing different element sizes and quantities of materials, tufted and woven varieties, various patterns and worlds of colours, these tiles are just as appropriate in a hallway as they would be in an executive suite or conference room www.vorwerk-carpet.com
2
3
PVC-free, and supports good indoor air quality with a hardwear-
5
ing, tough surface that is easy to clean.
ral, sustainable cork, and a third from polyolefins for high reduc-
LifeLine flooring products are providing sustainably safe, clean and healthy environments using Enomer, a pioneering, ecologically-sound flooring material that is entirely
No plasticisers, no indoor emissions, no need for polishing – and offering time and cost savings as well as eliminating dust.
30
5
www.upofloor.fi/www.lifelinefloors.com
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
‘Silence is golden’ says the old adage, and now there is a range consisting of three groups of hi-tech underlays that attempt to achieve this desirable state with laminate floors
– one made of open-cell polyethylene foam, another from natution of airborne and footfall sound. This last-mentioned range also includes the bond PE-X Elastilon version which allows the floorcovering to be bonded to the
Domotex
underlay, thus enabling solid timber floors and strip parquet to
to the tiles being provided with subtle V-seams.
be laid as floating floors.
www.balterio.com
Proline Systems GmbH
9
Bergo Flooring are manufacturers of functional flooring in
tile form – two new concept collections were launched at Domotex to add to the classic original floorings in the Bergo sales programme. Environmentally friendly (even the packaging can be
6
recycled), they can be used almost anywhere – indoors or outdoors. No glue required, so
6
A global player in linoleum, vinyl, carpet tiles and flock
installation is very fast.
flooring exhibited its new sheet collection – a vinyl-backed
www.bergoflooring.com
floorcovering for professional applications in a wide variety
of market sectors. Available in 21 design ranges with over 300 items, the Flotex product is unique and claims a position between resilient and textile floorcoverings. A new Coral entrance flooring was also launched at Domotex. william.burmanje@forbo.com
10
9
Alloc was there with new designs for public areas, providing strength and beauty with extreme durability. Classified in Class 34, these floors are used for hotels, shopping centres and airports, as well as private homes.
Upgraded with several new designs, new stone décors have also been added to the special collection Alloc Commercial Stone. www.alloc.com
7
7
11
See-through wood? Luminoso comprises specially developed wood composite panels for which thin wooden layers are firmly glued together. Fibre optical waveguides are
embedded between the individual wooden layers, which conduct the light. Depending on the available fibre optical waveguide, the wood material lets daylight and direct sunlight pass through.
11
A great new decorative MDF-foiled skirting range has been launched, based on classic designs combined with modern foils. Characterised by its conceptual consistency, high quality level and continual product devel-
Truly an innovation!
opment, this range offers a wide choice in profiles, including new
www.luminoso.at
inner and corner pieces. Installation is simple, with a unique and
8
patented fixing system to make it distinctive and user-friendly.
Heralding the onset of a
www.jewe.eu
new ‘stone’ age, the Pure
12
Stone collection from
Balterio looks like stone and feels like stone, but it is made of laminate in tile form to mimic the effect and appearance of Belgian granite.
four different designs – limestone
tury in working with wood for any interior or exterior applica-
tion, this company has added a
The large, rectangular tiles (120cm x 40cm) are available in
With over a cen-
8
range of natural wood finishes, perfectly trimmed for the needs
white, limestone tobacco, Belgian
of the woods, and created from
blue mottled and Belgian blue ground. No visible joints, either – due
renewable resources based on
12 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
31
Domotex
17
purified natural oils and waxes. These finishes are not film-forming but open porous finishes, which means the wood is still able to breathe. www.osmo.de
13
wide product range made
17
of compatible high-quality adhesives and parquet
finishes – both with certified low-emisFour new brands of residential vinyl flooring were
sions. Loba and Wakol have combined
launched at the show.
resources to develop a reliable system
Leoline is a collection of classic residential cushion
of products for ensuring compatibility
vinyl, with products ranging from entry-level to high-
between adhesives and floor finishes.
end products.
All new floor finish products from Loba
Avenue is a special theme collection under the Avenue brand,
and Wakol are automatically tested for system compatibility and
offering residential cushion vinyl with special attention to design
are only included in the Connected Systems range after the respec-
and presentation.
tive tests for quality and compatibility have been passed.
Itec is the company’s new contract flooring division offering
www.loba.de
quality, reliability and service for the professional. Moduleo – styled as the new brand for high added value modular design flooring, both for residential and commercial use. www.ivcgroup.com
14
18
NCS (Natural Colour System)
18
from the Scandinavian Colour Institute offers a fast, convenient and trustworthy
The next generation of dust care systems now
service for the colour you need – to
includes what is stated to be the cleanest dust con-
calibrated colour standards – complete
tainer ever – the Bona DCS 70 – which can be used
with identity programmes and colour
with all Bona and other sanding machines for totally
manuals to facilitate your colour com-
dust-free sanding – and which separates wooden chips and fibres
munication. The use of the NCS system
from the dust. With a long-lasting filter and an even bigger dust
for customised services with strategic
bag, the totally sealed system prevents any dust from escaping
analysis of colour selections and mapping is provided, and dedicated
when changing the bag. And it is easier to transport thanks to the
experts develop and establish processes to manage your colours.
ergonomic handles and big wheels, making it the perfect choice
www.ncscolour.com
for clean air, cost efficiency and customer satisfaction. www.bona.com
15
Introduced as a new concept of floorcovering materials for living and working spaces, Fitnice is made
19
Whitespace is an online carpet toolkit with interacbrilliant design. You can
spec well-designed, eco-friendly prod-
a backing of recycled material which contributes to
ucts made from Antron carpet fibre
its dimensional stability and a high level of soundproofing and
– broadloom, modular, and custom,
thermal insulation.
and tap the expertise of the Customer Care team in real time. Store project
for interior and exterior upholstery, and is provided with a 5-year
information online for access any-
manufacturer’s warranty.
where, anytime – making out-of-date out of the question.
www.fitnice.com
www.whitespace.bz
16
19
tive applications to inspire
of vinyl-coated high-tenacity polyester fabric, with
This material offers solutions for floor and wall coverings, and
20
Here is an artificial grass from Domo with its roots in the traditional textile
industry. It has a natural look and
The cool-and-fresh flower
20
look in laminate flooring from Witex known as artria is aimed at the young and
feel, can be provided in box or roll
young at heart who wish to stamp their
form, and is ideal for homes and
own personality on their living style.
gardens, public spaces, children’s
The selected floral or organic-styled sur-
playgrounds, sports applications
face designs allow the realisation of numerous styles from classic to
of all varieties, and for events such
funky. The 8mm thick floor panels with HDF-Protect core board and
as trade fairs.
additional profile sealing have a matt finish and are suitable for laying over underfloor heating systems. Witex offers these planks (rated as
FUNgrass is easy to install by obtaining installation instructions
32
Connected Systems is a
on the website. www.fungrass.com
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Abrasion Class AC3) with a special 15-year fade and stain warranty for
16
residential properties – 5 years for commercial applications. www.witex.com
Domotex
tomised flooring designs. Pergo is also entering the vinyl market for the first time, which marks the evolution of Pergo from a laminate company into a flooring company. Vinyl Planks & Tiles represent a new type of soft multi-layer flooring based on the same Pergo core values of durability, beauty, ease and trust. Pergo Vinyl Planks & Tiles come in 14 various designs that range between wood, stone and leather, with three different sized formats. The easy-to-install, click board format of Pergo Vinyl floors feature many of the already recognised features of Pergo laminates with the added benefit that the floor is warm, quiet and comfortable to walk on. All of Pergo’s new laminate floors incorporate the recognised technologies of previous Pergo floors, including TitanX, which makes the floor more scratch- and impact-resistant. SoftTech technology, which reduces the noise generated when walking on a laminate floor, is also available with a selection of Pergo laminates. For the commercial and consumer market the product portfolio is now divided into four categories: public Extreme, a floor ideal for heavy footfall areas such as bars, retail spaces and hotels, with a lifetime residential guarantee against wear, stains and fading from sunlight; original Excellence for high-traffic domestic areas such as kitchens and hallways, with a lifetime residential guar-
for Laminate Collections Marketed in South Africa solely by Barrow Flooring, Pergo will have a year of extensive change in 2010, as the company introduces 68 stylish new décors, offers new textures and formats, launches a new mid-price category, pioneers a universal click system, provides customised flooring designs, and enters the vinyl market for the first time.
antee; living Expression which is also suitable for kitchens and busy areas in the house, with a 25-year residential guarantee; and domestic Extra, the new entry-level floor, best used in bedrooms and living rooms, including a 20-year residential guarantee. A new online Pergo e-showroom not only provides a window to the full Pergo range but also offers the opportunity to ‘try before you buy’ through a facility that allows you to upload a photo of your room and test out different floors in your own setting. A new selection of marketing materials and displays has been prepared to accompany the launch of the new products to the market. The PergoStore display system provides a smart and compact way of displaying the new range of Pergo products with display stands for product samples and the new catalogues. Besides a new product catalogue, also available to the residential market is an inspiration folder which provides ideas and
The new décors are inspired by wood, minerals and the latest design
advice on interior design and the importance of starting a room
trends and bring the total designs available in the Pergo laminate
design at the floor and working up.
flooring range to 250. Providing a textured finish adds increased authenticity to Pergo’s
For the commercial market, sector folders will be available for the various industry areas, including hotels, offices and shops,
floors. Several new synchronised textures are available in the Timeless
offering advice on how Pergo floors can best be used within each
Oaks collection as well as a new synchronised slate texture in the
space to create the desired atmosphere and impression.
Stone collection. Two- and four-way bevelled edges are also available on a number of décors to enhance the wood effect. Four different sized formats have been added to enhance the wood plank effect. They include a new longer plank (2 000mm x 210mm), a
A sample service will also be available for customers to preview floors before they purchase, along with a specialised architect book to advise and guide architects in their flooring selection. Pergo’s environmental track record is also of the highest stan-
narrow strip (1 200mm x 90mm) and a wider slab imitation format (1
dard. Eighty percent of the content of the flooring consists of
200mm x 400mm).
surplus from the wood industry.
Pergo’s new innovative fold-down technology, known as
The company uses only renewable wood products such as pine
PerfectFold, is a laying system by which the panels are simply laid in
and spruce. Pergo was the first laminate flooring company to
position and click into place, making the installation process much
receive the ISO 14001 certification for its environmental manage-
faster and easier.
ment system.
A new concept Pergo is bringing to the commercial market is myPergo, which enables commercial customers to create unique cus-
Anyone wishing to know more about these exciting additions to the Pergo range should visit the website www.pergo.com.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
33
Domotex
One of the major innovations at Domotex 2010 was the introduction of a World of Flooring walking tour for the technical press which enabled visiting journalists to find out more about the latest trends and products in parquet and laminate
Witex
flooring, and to meet the major players in this bourgeoning sector.
T
his was attended by Roxanne Mancini of FLOORS, and her
Balterio
report and impressions are shown below:
According to Franky Terrijn, marketing manager of Balterio, the laminate market is becoming more and more fashionable, and
Moso International
this was certainly apparent at their Domotex stand, with a wide
This company specialises in the development of innovative and
variety of new décors in trendy designs with innovation and
trend-setting products made of bamboo and claims to be the
contemporary finishes in existing and new collections, which
European leader in this field. A new range of bamboo carpet
included Pure Stone, Pure Naturals – and others using the patent-
tiles was presented by Moso (the Chinese word for giant bam-
ed Balterio ChromeZone technology (see Azura in this issue).
boo) at the show and, in line with their prediction that there is
Longer planks, wider formats, darker designs and increased
an increasing demand for natural look-alike floors, the company
tactility – together with an awareness of the acoustic proper-
has produced new-look bamboo to replicate the natural state of
ties of each design – are the benchmarks for future trends and
the material in a flooring application. Very attractive and being
innovations.
well marketed.
Terrijn also feels that pure Zen-like lines will be part of the future trends as people slow down and ‘smell the roses’ in terms
Witex
of what these floors can do for them. He also recommends to
Roxanne spoke with Mirco Schäpe, marketing manager of Witex
the trade that product must be the hero in any showroom dis-
Flooring Products GmhH, who presented a new multi-layer floor
play; technology must be to the fore; and touching is important
‘pure’, which opens up completely new perspectives for interior
– so allow customers to feel and enjoy the product.
designs. This new type of flooring consists of a water-resistant core board with a concrete-look wear layer. The surface looks and feels like concrete, but is much lighter
34
MeisterWerke Schulte GmbH Product manager Stefan Niemann has some strong views on the
and more durable than the real thing. Provided as a glueless
role laminates will play in interior décor and design in the future.
installation.
He told Roxanne that the trend for digital design would increase
Schäpe forecasts that renovation projects will be the major feature of 2010, and floating floors will be ‘hot’ this year.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
in 2010 to cover hitherto taboo features for floors such as Paisley designs, and others.
Domotex
He also sees darker colours being used, stripes in black and white, and floors with huge contrasts. In fact, he feels that designs such as using pristine, white floor with black furniture and similar décor impressions will also become prevalent. MeisterWerke also launched its new 250 Format Design collection – a laminate floor with special design possibilities for shops and trade fair stands, or for small properties, providing a fold-down installation. Hot, hot, hot! Amorin This company featured the Wicanders Vinyl Commercial Collection, the new Parquet line with five collections, Decolife, and the new cork collection GO-4-Cork. This last-mentioned look-alike product was highly regarded at the expo, both from a technology and an aesthetic viewpoint, Amorin having produced an original product with unique characteristics. Claasen This company set out to prove that laminate planks are not only attractive on floors, but can also create an impression for walls and ceilings with its wide range of décors, surfaces and formats. The Claasen megaloc fixing system makes these laminates suitable for continuation of the floor décor, for providing single stripes,
balterio
MOSO
squares, or for covering an entire area – anything is possible.
Kährs Parkett Deutschland Gmbh Kährs launched its first exclusive collection of wood floors from the new Supreme Range last year, and this year introduced its new Avenue, Elegance Supreme, and Artisan collections. The Supreme range features a stunning traditional plank design, with one 20mm collection offered in dimensions previously not available in modern multi-layered format. All options are crafted from the finest sustainable Oak, using modern eco-friendly methods and providing Kährs high performance. Roxanne says that the wood and laminate sector is to be congratulated for instigating this type of event that enabled journalists and editors to meet the senior executives of these companies and to obtain their views firsthand. Face-to-face explanations of design techniques, technologies and processes also allow the media to pass this knowledge on to their readers in a meaningful manner.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
35
Domotex
Great adhesives MAPEl, an international leader in the adhesives sector for the building industry, presented their new
cient, innovative solutions and may safely claim to be technology you can build on. The 2010 edition of Domotex is further demonstration of Mapei’s
systems and products specifically for laying wood
competence in the specific field of laying all types of resilients and
and resilients at the recent Domotex exhibition.
tions, from substrates to adhesives and varnishes for wood.
wood, embodied in the offer of complete, specific systems for all soluMapei provides specific solutions for any type of wooden, resilient
The vast, in-depth ranges of both new and improved systems and
and textile flooring. Starting from binders to pre-blended mortars for
products on show at this important trade fair in Hanover are the
screeds, Mapei offers Mapecem, special quick-setting and quick-drying
undisputed proof of the Mapei know-how, gained through decades
(24 hours) controlled-shrinkage hydraulic binder; Mapecem Pronto, pre-blended, quick-setting and quick-drying (24 hours) con-
of global experience.
trolled-shrinkage mortar; Topcem special quick-setting
Care for the environment is one of the mainstays of the Mapei corporate philosophy. The company’s
and quick-drying (4 days) controlled-shrinkage bind-
commitment to manufacturing products which
er; and Topcem Pronto, pre-blended, quick-setting
are increasingly eco-sustainable is embodied in
and quick-drying (4 days) controlled-shrinkage
its research programme to create and develop
mortar with extremely low emission levels of
products which also improve the wellbeing of
volatile organic compounds (certified EC1 R). Also, Mapei has smoothing and levelling
buildings.
compounds such as Ultraplan Eco certified
This led to the creation of Mapei’s range of
EC1 (extremely low emission levels of volatile
‘Eco’ products certified EC1 or EC1 R, awarded
organic compounds) self-levelling ultra-quick
to all those products with an extremely low
hardening (12 hours) smoothing and level-
emission level of volatile organic compounds
ling compound for thicknesses from 1-10 mm; or
(VOC) awarded by GEV, the association which
Ultraplan Maxi certified EC1 self-levelling ultra-quick
checks emission levels of products used for floors. All
hardening smoothing and levelling compound for thicknesses
Mapei products which comply with international standards on eco-sustainability also bear the Green Innovation logo. The central theme of this initiative is their collaboration with the
from 3-30 mm, and soundproofing with the Mapesilent System: a modular system of special panels, sheets and soundproofing acces-
American organisation, the US Green Building Council, of which
sories which are installed directly in contact with the floor slab before
Mapei has been a member for more than 5 years.
installing the screed.
This organisation developed the LEED System (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) which classifies and certifies buildings
Soundproof floors
according to a specific points system.
Apart from the Mapesilent system (rolls or panels), which is a consoli-
The Mapei range currently includes more than 150 products which
dated system for soundproofing against the noise of footsteps, Mapei
meet the LEED requirements and are identified with the Green
presents the unique Mapesonic CR soundproofing membrane in rolls
Innovation logo.
laid underneath the floor – made from grains of cork and rubber which is laid directly on all types of substrate, including on old floors,
Internationality
before laying any type of flooring material (ceramic, stone, parquet,
Mapei is in close contact with its customers and specific construc-
resilients, etc).
tion requirements all around the world thanks to the network of 56 facilities in 25 different countries and 5 different continents, and also thanks to an efficient network of local technical support departments.
Correct preparation of the substrate is fundamental in obtaining professional results with the highest performance. Amongst the Primers the ultra-new Eco Prim Grip universal bonding promoter made from acrylic resin and inert silica with an extremely
Innovation
low emission level of volatile organic compounds (EC1), together with
Each year, 12% of the Mapei workforce is involved in research and
the Mapei consolidating and waterproofing primers Eco Prim PU1K
development and 5% of total turnover is invested in this field. More
and Eco Prim PU 1K Turbo (certified EC1 R), The Mapei systems are
than 70% of research funds are invested into the development of eco-
particularly interesting for use in the resilients sector, for both civil
sustainable products (more than 85 million Euro every year).
building applications (schools, offices, hospitals, libraries, etc.) and for providing eco-sustainable solutions.
36
Reliability
Mapei
Thanks to years of experience in the international arena, and its com-
Tel: 011 552 8476
mitment to research, specialisation and constant contact with the
E-mail: info@mapei.co.za
building world, Mapei can meet all market requirements with effi-
Website: www.mapei.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
carpets feature Even with ceramic and porcelain tiles gaining considerable market share both locally and internationally, laminate floorcoverings finding favour in many sectors, and resilients holding their own, carpet is still the dominant floorcovering in numerous countries worldwide.
37 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
still dominating! T
he reasons for this are not hard to find: carpets can meet any décor requirement and are hardwearing, relatively easy to install
and maintain, cost-effective, provide safety in use, assist with sound reduction, and have an excellent service lifespan. Although carpets have been around for aeons, technology in this sector is still developing rapidly as can be seen from many other articles in this feature – so much so that it is easy to forget what the basic norms, features and benefits are of the various types of carpet available to the designer and the end- user. Leading manufacturers are going several steps further in terms of producing carpets that continue to challenge the design envelope ObjeCt Carpet
but can, for example, actively improve interior air quality – demonstrably reducing the amount of dust and other particles in the air. This introductory article to our annual feature aims to put this right, with a summary of the various types of carpet currently on the market, and the materials that can be used. Some of the more common types available in South Africa are:
Even with ceramic and porcelain tiles gain-
Woven: Woven carpet is produced on a loom and is very similar
ing considerable market share both locally
to woven cloth. This type of carpet includes Axminster and Wilton,
and internationally, laminate floorcoverings
weaving. An Axminster carpet has always been synonymous with
which are often confused as brand names, but are in fact forms of
finding favour in many sectors, and resilients
both quality and a luxury form of flooring.
holding their own, carpet is still the dominant
which is a cost-effective, faster method of production. However,
Today most carpet is manufactured utilising the tufted method
floorcovering in numerous countries world-
unlike tufted carpet an Axminster is woven, and produced as a cut-
wide.
tern is woven with the weft.
pile. Each individual yarn colour that goes to make up the carpet patAfter the required yarn colour has been woven into the backing it is cut automatically to the required pile height and then reinserted when this colour is next required. The fact that the individual pieces of yarn or tufts of carpet are woven with the weft demonstrates that an Axminster or Wilton carpet provides quality, longevity and as well as a luxurious feel underfoot. The quality of an Axminster and the fact that many colours can be used in a roll of carpet ensure that it is often the flooring of choice for prestigious buildings where quality, multicoloured patterns in wool/ nylon yarns and an element of luxury are simultaneously required. Wilton carpet, like Axminster carpet, is woven. However the difference between the two methods is the way in which the carpet is woven. Whereas the Axminster yarn is woven into each weft, cut to the required pile height and then reinserted when that colour is
38
stepevi
needed again – the Wilton carpet yarn is a continuous strand woven
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
all the way through the length and buried in the back until required to form the pattern when it is raised to the surface. Wilton carpets can
Feature: Carpets
be in cut or loop pile or a combination of both to provide texture,
able for carpet as it not only looks good has exceptional appearance
and they also have multicoloured patterns.
retention properties – wool grows old gracefully! Wool is also not
Tufted: This type of carpet is produced on a tufting machine
flammable or prone to static electricity build-up.
by using either a single or multicoloured or sometimes a noncoloured yarn. If the last-mentioned is being used, then the car-
The most important yarn constructions are:
pet will be dyed or printed with a design as a separate process.
Wool and wool blended with synthetic fibres: Wool has excellent
Tufted carpet is the more economical of the carpet-producing
durability, can be dyed easily and is fairly abundant and naturally sus-
methods. Unlike Axminster and Wilton carpet, a tufted carpet is
tainable. When blended with synthetic fibres such as nylon the dura-
produced by adding yarn onto a pre-existing backing and held in
bility of wool is increased and blended wool yarns are used exten-
place using a special adhesive, and a secondary backing of preci-
sively in the production of modern carpet, with the most common
sion synthetic yarn, jute or foam is applied for extra strength. This
blend being 80% wool to 20% synthetic fibre. Wool acrylic blends are
method is an extremely fast way of manufacturing carpet.
also very popular locally because of the natural wool look – acrylic is
However, it must be realised that tufteds are not necessarily
also fondly referred to as ‘the poor man’s wool’.
inferior; one can also get high-quality tufted carpets in quality
Nylon: Until recent times this was the most popular synthetic fibre
synthetic/wool yarns with today’s development and technology.
used in carpet production. Nylon can be dyed topically or during the
Carpets that are tufted can either be cut pile, loop pile, or a
extrusion process – solution dyeing – which is a very popular appli-
combination of both.
cation for carpet manufacture. Nylon can be printed easily and has
Cut and loop piles: The cut- and loop-pile construction com-
excellent wear characteristics.
bines both looped and cut fibres, providing a variety of surface
New generation nylon is very popular because it is durable, colour-
textures for durability in all location grades. Cut and loop carpets
fast, stain-resistant and resilient to soiling and matting. It is often
are available in either solid or different colours. The several differ-
blended with wool to improve the overall wear of the carpet.
ent layers in this carpet can hide dirt and footprints in formal and
Polypropylene: This polymer is used to produce carpet yarns
informal areas.
because it is less expensive than others, very resistant to wear and to
Saxony: This consists of tightly twisted cut piles that are heat-set
permanent staining, moisture and mildew, whilst remaining colour-
straight. They utilise two or more threads that have been twisted
fast. Large-looped Berber carpets made from this fibre are mostly
together in a yarn, providing a very soft, even-surfaced texture
recommended for light domestic use and will flatten sooner than
for informal as well as formal areas. However, they will show foot-
other fibres.
prints and even marks from vacuum cleaners.
Berber carpets with smaller loops tend to be more resilient and
Textured Saxony: Here the yarns are heat-set with a kinky
retain their new appearance longer than large-looped Berber styles.
effect – for a more texturised Saxony look - for medium to heavy
Commercial grade level-loop carpets have very small loops, and
domestic use. They also offer a multicoloured look that will hide
commercial grade cut-pile styles are also well constructed to provide
tracks and footprints.
exceptional wear capability.
Plush/velvet: Both plush and velvet yarns offer a uniform colour.
Polyester: Used in carpet manufacturing, primarily as spun yarns for
They offer a very even, velvety surface. This type of carpet is ideal
Saxony constructions and is well supported in South Africa. Polyester
for formal areas due to its luxurious appearance.
has good heat-setting properties and is inherently stain-resistant
Frieze: Frieze is a highly twisted cut-pile type of carpet where its
because it is hydrophobic and does not have dye sites.
construction will tend to curl in different directions at the surface
Acrylic: This fibre has a very natural look and is more affordable. It is
to hide footprints and vacuum marks.
used successfully in blends with wool or other synthetic fibres.
Level-loop pile: Level-loop pile carpet is durable as well as trackresistant, as opposed to cut pile carpets where the free end of the
How green are the carpets?
pile yarn can lie in different directions. Higher loops in the carpet
Two major issues are currently facing the flooring industry – the
will create a more luxurious look, and they will also help to pre-
embracing of green building techniques in every aspect. The best car-
vent dirt from filtering into the carpet.
pet manufacturers are taking issues of sustainability and environmen-
Needlepunch: These carpets are made by interlocking individual
tal impact very seriously – not only as good corporate citizens, but as
fibres together – the most frequently used fibre is polypropylene.
a fast-growing area of competitive advantage.
All the fibres are anchored into a resin backing to give excellent
In terms of the carpet sector, in this article we will briefly outline
stability and durability. Most commonly used in loop-pile con-
what is and should be being done regarding the former – which
struction, needlepunch carpets provide exceptional value and are
will be followed by a detailed feature on how the green issues affect
probably the best-selling carpets on the market.
the whole industry in our Sustainability feature in the next issue of FLOORS in Africa.
Fibre & Yarns
How the industry is faring with regard to Black Economic
Carpet fibres come in two main groups: natural and synthetic.
Empowerment is discussed in the feature on Skills Development and
Carpet can be made from many single or blended natural and
Training in this issue.
synthetic fibres, selected for durability, appearance, ease of manufacture, and cost. Natural fibre generally means wool, which is particularly suit-
These are extremely important issues which, apart from the steps that the Government may be taking, affect the flooring industry in several ways. In particular, an ever-increasing number of architects,
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
39
Feature: Carpets
duced by environmentally acceptable processes that accommodate all the requirements for the conservation of air, water, land, natural resources, fauna, flora, and the minimising of pollution in all its forms. Basic criteria include energy and electricity saving with the control of lights, airconditioning plant, and so forth; the reduction of water and chemical usage; the use of wastewater and recycled materials; and the use of sustainable materials. Waste recycling and disposal (to prevent the use of landfills), and the reclamation of old floorcoverings, together with the reduction of the company’s carbon footprint by controlling the methods of getting product to the market or end-user are other important considerations in ‘going green’. Many larger companies have embarked on extensive ISO 14001 programmes to assist in achieving their environmental obligations; others have aligned themselves with the local Green Building Council which, in turn, assists professionals in understanding the ramifications Vorwerk
of green building. Either way, the adoption of quality environmental controls in everything the company does is a prime and essential requirement of future trading within the South African flooring industry. Don’t miss our Sustainability feature in the next issue of FLOORS in Africa. interior designers, contractors and end-users – together with
Some information contained in this article was extracted from the fol-
their clients, government departments, buyers and NGOs
lowing websites, to which acknowledgement and thanks are given:
– are now insisting on certain criteria being met in terms of
www.carpet.org; www.floorbiz.com; www.carpet-rug.org; plus our
both ‘green’ and ‘black’ before any tenders are accepted.
thanks also goes to the local experts who have contributed to this
In general, they are looking for eco-friendly products pro-
annual feature in the past.
For all your floorcovering needs
T
he Carpet & Décor Centre group has been involved and trading in the floorcovering industry since 1968. After over 40 years of
service and experience the group has established itself as a market leader and has seen phenomenal growth. Operating out of a head office in Crown Mines, Johannesburg and with nine strategically placed national branches, Carpet & Décor Centre has earned a respectable reputation from its customers, clients and suppliers, with the size of the business allowing the company to give real value for money, and a customer service that is second to none. The Carpet & Décor Group is focused on adding value and a customer-driven corporate image which benchmarks against world-class
to this fact, with the company being active members of
standards and services.
the Gauteng Master Builders Association (GMBA); and the
The inherent values of the company include delivering products
Carpet & Décor is a Level 1 AAA+ BEE Empowerdex rated
only meet but exceed all customer expectations.
company with a score of 135% as well as being appointed as
The aim is also to develop and maintain successful and strategic
40
Southern African Wood & Laminate Association (SAWLFA).
and services of the highest quality that enable Carpet & Décor not to
a Nouwens Platinum Partner.
“win-win” partnerships with suppliers, and to continually develop and
Carpet & Décor
train its members to maintain a culture that supports a total-quality,
Tel: 011 837 3856
efficient, effective and productive environment.
Fax: 011 837 3876
Carpet & Décor is recognised as a stalwart of the floorcovering
E-mail: zbho@carpetdecor.co.za
industry, and its affiliation to the relevant Associations is testimony
Website: www.carpetdecor.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Don’t just clean it. Care for it.
Feature: Carpets
The FLOORFORUM 2010 event at this year’s Domotex was presented by renowned designer Ulf Moritz in which he emphasised the four major design trends for carpets for 2010/2011 – Authentic, Dramatic,
42
Decorative and Exclusive.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Authentic best describes carpets made of natural materials featuring organic structures that appear almost handcrafted. A natural, original look and the functional use of materials result in carpets that are easy to harmonise and pleasing to the eye. By contrast, the bold, extravagant and ultramodern carpet designs under Dramatic provide the avant-garde look which is strongly influenced by fashion and lifestyle trends, making a big, almost emotional impact on the viewer.
appealing, imaginative patterns
The Exclusive design trend is the display category for top quality to
Decorative is no less
based on romantic and folklore
luxurious tradition carpets featuring classic patterns, value and time-
eye-catching but more
influences in a distinctive and
less quality.
romantic, translating
original style idiom.
Whilst following and appreciating the expert view, FLOORS also can-
vassed the opinions of visitors to the exhibition, to find out what their feelings are about the future carpet trends, and although some felt that there was less product development in this area because of the recessionary cutbacks in 2009, there are still some interesting design trends to be noted. On the manufacturing side it was noticed that the promotion of tufting machines that make woven-look carpet tiles is on the increase, and there are more ‘soft touch’ yarns being exhibited. Interesting wool and natural fibre imitations were in evidence, and the combination of yarns of different thickness in one carpet is also a trend to be watched. Shaggy’s are still popular in Europe, although these have hardly caught on in South Africa. Incidentally, the artificial grass offerings are on the increase in Europe. In terms of design, there are more organic designs to be seen, with the accent on subtleness – fewer stripes, and less strong or bold designs. Subtleness is also depicted in the use of complementary colours in carpet designs although, despite the fact that many bright colours were on display, the chocolate browns and beiges are still the high-volume sellers. For carpets, the culmination of the Domotex event was the presentation of the Carpet Design Awards, which have been detailed
43
elsewhere in this feature.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Belgotex Floorcoverings’ latest marketing campaign, “Define Your Style”, is designed to help customers express their style from the ground up.
F
loors are fundamental statements of your personal style, reflecting your lifestyle, trends and preferences. That’s the basic philosophy behind Belgotex Floorcoverings’
latest marketing campaign, Define Your Style, designed to help customers express their style from the ground up. “People’s choice of flooring is influenced by their personality and lifestyle, and there’s a carpet, laminate or vinyl guaranteed to suit every style,” says Helen Dwyer, marketing coordinator of Belgotex Floorcoverings. Featuring a number of inspirational looks and styles using the different Belgotex Floorcoverings brands, Define Your Style aims to appeal to different personalities by providing a look or style that people can relate to. “It is all about customers identifying with one of our styles and giving them ideas on how to get the look using our products,” explains Helen. “From the adventurous trendsetter that wants the best of the best; to the sophisticated yet practical contemporary or the pared-down
your Style
44
Lodge Luxury
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Glam Rock
Feature: Carpets
minimalist that prefers clean lines and open spaces; to the ardent nature lover that loves all things natural and textured; to even the traditional, more conservative classic, Define Your Style demonstrates the versatility of Belgotex Carpets, Nexus, Duraturf, Berry Floor laminates and IVC cushioned vinyl to project your tastes and create your ideal environment.” “Even in the office, the company defines its corporate identity or management style through their décor,” she continued. Six different looks with apt descriptors such as Lodge Luxury, ‘Boujwa’ Boudoir, Fresh Produce, Glam Rock, Homeland Harmony or Organic Expressions, each appeal to different personalities and show you how to get that look with the flooring of your choice. Over the next few issues. FLOORS in Africa will take a closer look at each, starting with those on Belgotex Carpets: “We want customers to identify with a look and to feel a sense of belonging, as well as giving them new ideas on how to achieve that effect,” says Helen. “For example, Lodge Luxury features deep chocolate and mocha tones with soft leather furnishings
Fresh Produce
and dark wood finishes on Belgotex Carpets’ Granada in colour Mascade to create a sense of affordable luxu-
Black City coupled with chrome and silver finish-
communication activities including exhibitions,
ry. But you can create a similar feel
es. Think crystal chandeliers and electric neons.
print and competitions, with an extensive print
using Woodmark Birma 745 from IVC
Quietly understated Georgian carpeting com-
or Berry Floor’s Naturals’ Java,” she
bined with intricate wallpaper and bold accent
continued.
colours achieves Boujwa Boudoir’s ecletic mix
Fresh Produce features bold graph-
campaign being launched in the consumer décor titles in March. Check out which products and colourways
of textures and patterns that blends classic and
best define your style on www.belgotex-
ics, bright primary colours and modu-
modern in this bedroom setting. To create a
floorcoverings.com and look out for Define
lar design in a home office environ-
haven of peace and tranquillity, try Woodmark’s
your Style for resilient floors in the next issue of
ment, with a SuperWeave carpet Sago.
Amazone 845 or Berry Floor Naturals’ Smoked
FLOORS in Africa.
Modem vinyl and plastic finishes cre-
Oak for a similar effect.
Belgotex Carpets
ate a playful atmosphere. Alternative flooring suggestions to create a
Define Your Style will be carried through all the Belgotex Floorcoverings marketing and
Tel: 033 897 7500 Fax: 033 897 7700 Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za
similar look are Essex Chardonay or Woodmark Amazone 832, both ideal for medium to heavy traffic. Sophisticated and glamorous Glam Rock adds nightlife to your home life with dramatic deep colours and
45
textures such as cut-pile Westminster
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Commercial products I
t all started with Cornelis Nouwens, the Dutch carpet craftsman from Tilburg in Holland, and was followed up by the
next generation of Pieter and Luci Nouwens who currently hold the reins. Over 48 years the company has developed into an innovative market leader, with a sound reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Nouwens Carpets in Harrismith houses a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant producing carpets from fibre to finished product – this has the obvious benefit that quality can be controlled throughout the entire process. Being a family business, Nouwens has been able to re-invest and develop quality technology, constantly updating and commissioning of the latest systems available in the world. This has ensured that Nouwens produces products which more than hold their own internationally. The company’s commitment extends way beyond the product, to major support programs for the local community, conMadison Square
servation of energy and resources, waste control and concern for the environment with specially selected chemicals and updated manufacturing equipment and systems. Today, Nouwens Commercial has an amazing sales pro-
With its history imbued with the highest
gramme that offers a wide selection of products at price points ranging from entry-level Easicarpets to exclusive Platinum Edition ranges. These products regularly find favour
standards of manufacture, and enhanced with
in executive and general commercial applications – from the most prestigious to the practical and really hardworking
a background of family tradition and incomparable craftsmanship, Nouwens Carpets has been providing quality carpets to the South
applications. Although the entire Nouwens product collection carries various commercial wear ratings, we have identified six styles which are particularly suitable for commercial applications. These include three flagship Platinum Edition wool ranges: Copenhagen, Kirman and Madison Square, the ever popular Nouwens Commercial nylon Contracta Spec and two specially styled, entry-level Easicarpet ranges – Colours
African market since 1962.
and Twenty Ten. Without exception, each of these styles is a perfect example of the ultimate Nouwens carpet craftsmanship. To support this, Nouwens has a team of experienced professionals who are able to assist the architect, interior designer,
Kirman
Copenhagen
contractor or developer in making the right choice of carpet for any commercial application. After all, a successful installation starts with a suitable product specification! Nouwens Carpets Tel: 011 796 5180 Tel: 031 502 5730 Tel: 021 447 2856 Tel: 058 622 1101
46
Website: www.nouwens.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Madison Square Proud member of the Nouwens Platinum Edition, the hardwearing Heavy Commercial Madison Square has won favour both locally and abroad for commercial and hospitality installations. Contrasting effect colours punctuate the textured geometric squares to achieve a versatile but very tailored look which must be seen in a larger piece to really appreciate its beauty. Being wool, another feature of Madison Square is that it meets the aesthetic needs of our times – a new appreciation for the value of quality craftsmanship, a return to nature and concern for the environment. Why wool? Well, wool makes a definite quality statement, imparting that cosy natural feel only wool can bring. When it comes to installations such as top hotels the world over, where appearances really count, the fibre of choice is still wool because of its superb appearance retention and the fact that it really is forgiving and easy to clean. Madison Square also comes with all the possible peace-ofmind endorsements – the SABS mark of quality, Nouwens Wool Collection, Platinum Edition and a Five-Year Quality Guarantee.
Copenhagen Copenhagen is a really exciting innovation of the highest quality but, due to its unique construction, it offers heavy commercial, pure wool benefits at prices way below those of conventional wool carpets! Copenhagen comes in a weave and a rib pattern and has been widely used in many commercial installations ranging from offices and boardrooms to hotels and lodges – all with rave reviews! “So much more than just a carpet.” This contemporary interpretation in pure wool simply has it all – a modern natural look in the most desirable quality carpet fibre available, even today. The superfine Nouwens 6-ply yarn, durable weave and ActionBac finish qualify Copenhagen for a Heavy Commercial SABS use class. Copenhagen feels great underfoot when installed on a quality underlay, but is equally suitable whether fitted in this manner or applied direct to a screed for that modern minimalist feel. Copenhagen also comes with all the possible peace-of-mind endorsements – the SABS mark of quality, Nouwens Wool Collection, Platinum Edition and a Five-Year Quality Guarantee.
47 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Contracta Spec The Nouwens Contracta success story goes back as far as February 1992 and the secret of its success lies in the original wrap-spun, Antron 6.6 nylon base, which makes this heavy commercial carpet both affordable and unbelievably hardwearing. This, together with the serviceable effect colours and stylish plush appearance, has made Contracta an all-round favourite. The only change over the years has been the way in which the colour effects have moved with the times… Hundreds of thousands of square metres of this awesome product have been used in offices, shops, hotels, lodges as well as carpet tiles converted by Dyemension Dyenamics – many of which have been repeat orders from satisfied users. Contracta Spec also comes with all the possible peace-ofmind endorsements – the SABS mark of quality and a FiveYear Quality Guarantee
Kirman Fact is – wool is simply the best all-round carpet fibre. Nouwens has tailored the Medium Commercial Kirman range to provide a classic flooring solution for executive commercial areas as well as upmarket lodges and boutique hotels. Four very tasteful Kirman neutrals each come in three different patterns – a textured rib, lattice and basket weave, which can be very effectively combined for an innovative décor effect. It is the textured effect, in high-performance tight loops, that ensures Kirman’s lasting good looks. One of the first Nouwens Platinum Edition ranges, Kirman has earned itself a place of honour as a firm trade favourite. This is thanks to its appealing sophisticated look, its brilliant track record and the regular updates of patterns and colours. Kirman also comes with all the possible peace-of-mind endorsements – the SABS mark of quality, Nouwens Wool Collection, Platinum Edition and a Five-Year Quality Guarantee.
48 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
Twenty Ten Following on the success of Colours and the increased demand for creative commercial easicarpet solutions, Nouwens has styled the innovative Twenty Ten to the same exceptional quality standards. Twenty Ten has been specially launched as a very appealing and affordable option for the numerous projects that are being built and upgraded for the 2010 FIFA World Soccer Cup. These include lodges, guest houses, hotels, conference and entertainment venues, etc. that need to look their best for the influx of tourists and visitors later this year! It is important to note that according to the current South African grading systems, a polypropylene tufted carpet cannot achieve higher than a light commercial rating, but Nouwens has engineered a high-twist, heat-set yarn to optimise the performance of easifibre, whilst the sophisticated multicolour effect naturally enhances the serviceability of Twenty Ten. Unique Nouwens mill-applied and heat-cured easi-care carpet protector also forms an invisible, durable shield around each fibre to help against everyday spills and soiling. Twenty Ten comes with a Five-Year Quality Guarantee as well as a Ten-Year Wear Guarantee.
Colours Nouwens easicarpet introduces a totally new quality culture in polypropylene fibre carpets. Colours was designed as a superior entry-level, commercial carpet alternative for those installations which for some reason or another do not qualify for a more costly investment. According to the current South African grading systems, a polypropylene tufted carpet cannot achieve higher than a light commercial rating, but given the exceptional value-for-money benefits, the popularity of Colours, for all kinds of commercial applications, has continued to grow since its introduction in 2006! Track record says it all, and the super performance features of Colours once again highlight the skill of the Nouwens carpet craftsmen – they have engineered the high-twist, heat-set yarn to optimise the performance of easifibre, whilst the sophisticated multicolour effect naturally enhances serviceability. Unique Nouwens mill-applied and heat-cured easi-care carpet protector also forms an invisible, durable shield around each fibre to help against everyday spills and soiling. Colours comes with a Five-Year Quality Guarantee as well as a Ten-Year Wear Guarantee.
49 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
cut-piles now available A
fter the discontinuation of most of the cut-pile ranges in the beginning of last year, Van Dyck Carpets worked on a major
facelift of these cut-piles to bring the styles, colours and construction more in line with the latest fashion trends. The latest additions to this programme are Michigan, a multicoloured cut-pile with a random design available in seven offthe-shelf colours and another seven make-to-order colours, and Embassy, a plain cut-pile design available in seven natural/earthy stock colours and a further seven make-to-order colours. Both these ranges are made from 100% Xentrys heat-set nylon 6, with a yarn weight of 1 100 grams per square metre, and a total weight of 2100 grams per square metre. Because of the dense construction and lower pile height, both these ranges are very suitable for general commercial applica-
Van Dyck Carpets is proud to announce
tions such as offices, hotels, boardrooms, lounges, and for upmar-
that a full range of luxurious cut-piles is
ket residential applications. Their colour ranges are also suitable for these different applications with the stock colours focusing mainly on earthy/natural tones and the make-to-order colours including some stronger
now available, suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Design Jewel
varieties for commercial applications. Other colours can also be made for special project applications and the minimum quantities for this kind of request are only 1 200m². Because of Van Dyck Carpets’ unique dying facilities there is almost unlimited flexibility in respect of colours and styles, making these cutpile ranges very popular for projects where the client and specifiers are looking for something different and out of the ordinary. These new ranges complement other stalwarts in the Van Dyck sales programme such as Diplomat, a 2-coloured graphic and patterned cut-pile in the same weight and construction as Michigan and Embassy and available in two styles/designs and thirteen colours (Trident – a trellis design, and Cosmo – a leopard design), and Sorrento – a lower weight cut-pile more suitable for residential use and known as one of the best value-for-money products available, which is also produced in thirteen colours. All the above ranges are made of 100% Xentrys heat-set nylon 6 yarns and this yarn is a proven brand for many years now. Xentrys has the most advanced production facilities on the market, and its latest spinning technology and a wide range of finishing equipment enable the production of high-performance carpet yarns and fibres. The Xentrys yarns used by Van Dyck Carpets have a higher lustre for deep and vibrant colour, and in the finishing of the carpet production all nylon carpets are treated with a Stainshield protection in order to prevent the carpets from soiling and to make them easier to clean, enabling them to look better for much longer. Another new cut-pile range that has just been launched is Design
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Michigan
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Jewel, a woven Wilton carpet that replaces a product previously
Feature: Carpets
known as Gracious Living. This new woven product is imported from
nylon carpet to take out the stains, if the bleach is not removed
Belgium, manufactured by Balta and available in six colours: Beige,
properly then it will react over time and it can degenerate the yarn
Cream, Antique Gold, Moss, Damask (burgundy) and Ebony (black).
along with the backing and latex compounds. As a result of this Van
This product is made from 100% PP B-Tron Stainshield Heat-set fibre with a yarn weight of 2300 grams and a total weight of 2850 grams, and is also highly suitable for commercial and upmarket residential
Dyck Carpets does not recommend the use of bleach on any of their carpets. All the above ranges have been Torture Tunnel tested and carry a
installations. Because of its heavy yarn weight and woven construc-
Five-Year Guarantee and Ten-Year Limited Wear Warranty on condition
tion, it offers a very plush and rich carpet at an affordable price.
that a proper maintenance plan is in place.
For the same reason it is very popular in applications such as more
For more info on this and other ranges contact Van Dyck Carpets on
luxurious government offices, court-rooms, conference facilities,
the numbers provided below.
hotels, bed and breakfast establishments, and many more.
Van Dyck
Design Jewel is available in 4m width and, being made of polypro-
Tel: 031 913 3800
pylene, it is bleach-resistant. However, it is important to note that,
Fax: 031 912 1220
while bleach can be sprayed onto a polypropylene and solution-dyed
Website: www.vandyckcarpets.com
To put the green record R
eferring to the article Carpet is the green way to go! that appeared
IEO-14 Formaldehyde Minimisation relates only to formaldehyde in
in the previous issue of FLOORS in Africa, some inaccuracies
composite wood products and not to use of carpets.
have been discovered and, after discussion with the Green Building
lEO-iS Mould Prevention relates to maintaining humidity levels below
Council of South Africa (GBCSA), Van Dyck Carpets has requested that
certain levels and does not relate to use of carpets.
we publish the following corrections.
WAT-3 Landscape Irrigation measures potable water reduction for irri-
Firstly, in the main article, it was stated that Van Dyck Carpets “are
gation over the actual area that is landscaped, and replacing vegeta-
certified in accordance with the requirements of the Green Star
tion with outdoor carpet cannot help to achieve points.
Office�.
Mat-3 Reused Materials awards points for using previously-used, sec-
In this regard it needs to be clarified that the GBCSA and the Green
ond-hand material in the building, not installing material that can be
Star SA rating system do not certify, endorse or accredit products. The
reused in future, and does not relate to new carpet.
Green Star SA rating system certifies entire buildings only. The rating
Mat-5 Concrete relates to decreasing the amount of Portland cement
system does lay out certain requirements for products, but building
and virgin aggregate in concrete mixes, and cannot be achieved by
project teams must submit documentation demonstrating compli-
decreasing the amount of concrete used by using carpet.
ance with those requirements when submitting for their building
Mat-7 PVC Minimisation relates to replacing PVC with alternative
certification. Products may contribute to Green Star SA credits, but
materials, and non-PVC-backed carpet can contribute to this credit.
official certification is for buildings only.
Mat-l1 Local Sourcing awards points for products only if all of the raw
Van Dyck Carpets would like to confirm however that they have
materials in the product are harvested, extracted or recovered, and
VOC ratings for all their products that meet the requirements of the
the product completely processed and manufactured, within 400 km
Green Star rating IEQ13 re volatile organic compounds on flooring
(for one point) or 50 km (for 2 points) of the project building site. It is
and that these tests were done by CETEC Pty Ltd an independent lab
unlikely that a carpet product would meet these criteria.
in Australia. Secondly, the column entitled How can Van Dyck Carpets help your
In summary, carpet can only contribute to IEQ-13 for low-VOC materials and to Mat-7 for non-PVC-backed carpet. In rare cases, a carpet
Green Star rating? has a number of inaccuracies, including the state-
may also meet the requirements of Mat-11 Local Sourcing. Although
ment that the carpet can help with 19 points in a Green Star SA rat-
the use of carpets can help to minimise the impact on the environ-
ing. In fact, carpet can only directly contribute to 2 points, with a pos-
ment thanks to their built-in and unique properties, they will not con-
sible 3rd highly unlikely. To address each of the items in this column:
tribute to any other Green Star rating points.
lEO-9 Thermal Comfort and lEO-10 Individual Comfort Control relate to
Anyone wishing to know more about the GBCSA or the Green Star
mechanical system design and individual occupant control of air sup-
SA rating system should visit the website www.gbcsa.org.za or make
ply or temperature, not to use of carpet.
direct contact at Tel: 021 659 5990; or e-mail: info@gbcsa.org.za.
IEO-12 Internal Noise Levels relates to external noise ingress and inter-
Van Dyck Carpets would like to apologise for the incorrect informa-
nal noise from building services, and not to use of carpets.
tion and any inconvenience caused, and would like to thank Mr Jason
IEO-13 Volatile Organic Compounds: Carpet and Flooring does relate
Buch, the Technical Manager of the Green Building Council of South
directly to carpet product properties, and carpet may contribute to
Africa for rectifying these misunderstandings and misinterpretations
this credit.
of the Green Star Rating.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
51
Feature: Carpets
For some years now we’ve been addressing those more philosophical trends by listening to those people at the forefront of interior design. We travel the world to conferences and trade exhibitions, looking at the latest trends in interior design, and how emerging technologies will further change the face of our working lives. More recently, we’ve gone further by initiating “circles of architects” in our main markets internationally. It has allowed us to test our thinking on design leaders, and to benefit from their professional insight. One result of that process has been the development of our Carpetecture ranges, a concept that offers greater synergy with architects and interior designers because it allows them to choose designs that will best support the emotive qualities of the rest of the architectural process. The original Carpetecture designs were initially inspired by the repeated strata and parallel lines that run through commercial buildings – for example, their horizontal ceilings and repeated brick patterns, but with the softer and more natural colours we associate with
The Sound of Work
the home. Although the Carpetecture range has greatly expanded, the concept of merging the home and the office has been hugely successful, identifying and responding to a trend that is picking up momentum as more people work from home, and as the dynamics of work con-
D
esso is one of the world’s leading carpet manufacturers, and has been making carpets for some 80 years. In this article Pieter
We’ve also recently introduced SoundMaster that offers a significant 60% improvement in acoustic performance. It absorbs sound like a
Smits van Waesberghe, managing director of Desso South Africa,
sponge absorbs water, improving the acoustics in offices, hospitals or
looks at how the office is changing.
schools – offering unrivalled performance over other flooring options.
Anticipating change is the art of looking over horizons and
Underlining Desso’s environmental commitments, Soundmaster
making educated guesses. For the designer it means spotting
is made from 100% recycled polyester, specially chosen both for its
trends and understanding shifting dynamics. In designing for the
advanced sound insulation and eco-efficiency.
office environment it means recognising how the very nature of work continues to change. For Desso, it means using design and new technology to bring to market carpet ranges that can meet any design specification – while being environmentally responsible, and offering additional benefits such as sound reduction. Another report agrees. The Distributed Workplace summarised
SoundMaster perfectly illustrates Desso’s Cradle to Cradle philosophy, which was pioneered by German chemist Prof Michael Braungart, and which aims to create only products that can be entirely recycled to provide the raw materials for new products. Using colour and reducing ambient sound are relatively simple and cost-effective ways of improving the overall ‘feel’ of an office, but which can profoundly influence how people function within that space.
the findings of a two-year study into the future of the office and
It’s about putting people at the heart of the design process, using
found that the information age has exposed the inadequacies of
light, colour and sound reduction to influence attitude, motivation,
traditional ways of working.
creativity and productivity.
It also concluded that there is likely to be a blurring between
Until recently, our business was about trying to anticipate design
working and living because technology has rendered obsolete
trends and using our own resources to deliver new carpet designs.
the concept of the workplace as the only place to work.
Now, in a more complex office environment, it’s also about under-
In the past, for a company like Desso, corporate office design
standing the new technologies and what changes are just around
primarily focused on the functionality of our designs – fuelling
the corner – the design dynamics that will change what the office of
growth, for example, in modular carpeting. This has allowed dif-
tomorrow will look like and how we will work within it.
ferent areas in an office to be delineated by colour, with walkways
That is a step-change in office design because it is bringing together
between spaces. Modular carpeting, with hugely varied colour
technologists, architects, interior designers and business managers in a
palettes and price-points now offers, quite literally, limitless
different and collaborative way. It’s no longer simply about understand-
design options.
ing the emerging technologies, but about using the whole design pro-
In addition to that more traditional design process, we’ve also
52
tinues to change.
cess to create work environments in which people are put first.
invested in better understanding the dynamics of the changing
Desso South Africa
office – understanding the roles of colour and texture, and how
Sales contact: Natashia Mundell – 082 901 7601
interior designers are integrating workstations, conference and
Tel: 021 422 0742
break-out areas in new ways – and, in practical terms, how the
E-Mail: nmundell@desso.co.za or psmitsvw@desso.co.za
home and the office are becoming extensions of one another.
Website: www.desso.com
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
The Floor is Yours
+ 10dB SOUNDREDUCTION + 60% ACOUSTIC IMPROVEMENT
DESSO SoundMaster® DESSO introduces SoundMaster® – the optimal solution for improved sound reduction and acoustics. SoundMaster ® offers a contact sound reduction value of minimal + 10 dB in addition to the standard sound impact value, thereby setting a new industry standard in carpet performance. In addition, it offers a 60% improvement in acoustical performance in comparison to our standard carpet designs.
DESSO South Africa Johannesburg - Cape Town 021-422 0742
www.desso.com
Feature: Carpets
‘Only restricted by your imagination’ is a well-worn cliché, but with the carpet tile collections, textures, colours and patterns that are available, it is truly applicable to this type of floorcovering, particularly as it is a modular product that gives designers unprecedented freedom to be creative. Texture in floor design has come into prominence in recent years, and once again the versatility of carpet tiles can play an important role. For instance, the floor can be laid in several different ways, each providing a different effect.
C
Apart from the pre-textured tiles that are available, carpet tiles can
arpet tiles first emerged in the 1960s, but in general terms
be fitted in broadloom, tessellated or random-lay configurations to
they didn’t really take off until the IT revolution started. The
give the designer an endless array of flexible options that will meet
development and expansion of computers in offices – with
the requirements of any modern interior design in today’s working
their requirement for underfloor access becoming increasingly neces-
environments. They can even be fitted over most existing floorcover-
sary – made carpet tiles the floorcovering of choice, as they can be
ings if required.
lifted on an individual basis to provide access without disrupting the entire office. Also, in many commercial applications such as high-rise office
Relatively inexpensive and easy to install, these modular products allow the end-user to keep the floors looking fresh, or to change the floor design with the introduction of highlight sections.
blocks, it was necessary to design a floorcovering which could be eas-
In addition, tiles in heavy-traffic areas are easily replaced at minimal
ily transported to the office floors – a need which has been more than
cost, or can be swapped with tiles from less busy areas of the office to
adequately met by using carpet tiles.
radically extend the lifespan of the floor.
Carpet tiles are produced in sheet form and then stamped out to
Most carpet manufacturers and distributors now have carpet tiles
the required size (usually 50cm x 50cm), but as they are now available
in their sales programmes, and most ranges make a contribution to
in such a wide range of colours and styles, they are regularly regarded
the drive towards ‘green’ products with the use of reclaimed materials
as being a major part of the overall design scheme, with a propensity
in their manufacture, or their ability to be successfully recycled when
to complement and even enhance any interior décor.
their lifespan as flooring reaches its conclusion.
56 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
SEBO DUO DRY CARPET CLEANING SYSTEM
Duchesse
clean enough to eat off
Sebo offers a complete carpet care solution. The vacuum cleaners remove loose and dry matter, but for soiling and stains Sebo provides the Duo system. Cleaning without using water, it is effective and avoids wet cleaning problems such as carpet shrinkage, adhesive damage, smell and long ‘area out of use’ periods due to lengthy drying times. The Duo system comprises a brushing machine, the Duo, and carpet cleaning powder duo-P. The Duo brushing machine features twin contra-rotating brushes which open up the carpet pile and work the duoP carpet cleaning powder deep into the pile and around every fibre. Carpet is a long time investment – therefore, get Sebo to take care of your investment. It’s also part of your corporate image, so you need to maintain a clean and hygienic appearance. The Sebo dry carpet cleaning system is formulated to clean your entire carpet without soaking it with water! This amazing cleaning system will clean carpets to like-new condition, and removes even the most stubborn stains. The duo-P dry carpet cleaning powder is made of 100% biodegrad-
• No water, no soap, no shampoo! • Immediate use of carpet • Kills germs, bacteria, dust mites • No detergent residue & no shrinkage • Fibre protector helps prevent future stains • Do it yourself / Call out Sebo service
able granules moistened with detergent and is environmentally friendly and safe to use. When the powder is worked into the carpet with the Sebo Duo
Recommended and approved by:
Applicator, soil and stains are lifted out by the sponge-like granules. Within about 10 minutes, the powder is dry and removed by vacuum-
A P P R OV E D B Y
ing, leaving the carpet dry, fresh and ready to use. Also, a built-in fibre protector helps to protect against future stains and soil. Sebo Tel: 0861 114 250 Fax: 011 763 4033 E-mail: sebo@internext.co.za Website: www.sebo.co.za
Tel 086 111 4250 • Fax 011 763 4033 e-mail: sebo@internext.co.za www.sebo.co.za F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
57
Feature: Carpets
progress we have to date. We still have some way to go in achieving our 2020 goal; and to get there we will continue to evaluate, adapt and innovate our products, services and processes.” InterfaceFLOR is now over halfway in completing Mission Zero and has made significant progress towards reaching its 2020 goal. A waste reduction programme has allowed InterfaceFLOR to generate over US $405 million in avoided costs; energy efficiency programmes have resulted in a 67% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on an absolute basis since 1996; a commitment to renewable energy and further changes to the produc-
Journey to Mission Zero
tion process have allowed for 100% use of renewable electricity in the company’s manufacturing processes throughout Europe. The company also continues to push the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing, having recently developed and intro-
InterfaceFLORFLOR is committed to becoming a fully sustainable company, leaving zero carbon footprint by 2020.
duced two leading-edge technologies in its facilities in Europe to significantly reduce manufacturing waste. A bespoke ultrasonic cutting machine, which is based on NASA technology, will double output and enable InterfaceFLOR
It is now over 15 years since Ray Anderson, founder and chairman of
to eliminate several hundred tonnes of waste per year from the
InterfaceFLORFLOR Inc., the global modular flooring specialist, set his
manufacturing process.
company on the path to becoming the world’s first sustainable business by 2020. Now defined as Mission Zero, the company’s drive to achieve a
into its products for the first time, which not only reduces the
zero environmental footprint plays a central role in the organisation’s
material sent to landfill but also heralds a new dimension of
ethos and culture and has set InterfaceFLOR on a course that has
‘green’ manufacturing for the company in Europe.
characterised its development ever since. Mission Zero is InterfaceFLOR’s promise to eliminate any negative
InterfaceFLOR has won numerous design and innovation awards for its market-leading modular floorcovering products.
impact the company may have on the environment by considering the
In addition, it has also become widely recognised as a pioneer
effect of every creative, manufacturing and building decision it makes.
in sustainable manufacturing and business practices, and is
InterfaceFLOR addresses sustainability on seven fronts. These
currently ranked first in Globescan’s survey of sustainability
involve eliminating waste and harmful emissions; maximising use of
experts worldwide.
renewable energy; recycling waste materials and reusing products;
InterfaceFLOR
developing resource efficient transportation methods; creating a cul-
Tel: 011 608 3324 Fax: 011 608 2730
ture that integrates the principles of sustainability into working lives; and creating new models for businesses. Encouraging other companies to follow its lead in resource friendly manufacturing policies and processes is also a central part of InterfaceFLOR’s environmental mission. In 1994, after reading Paul Hawken’s ‘The Ecology of Commerce’, Anderson had an epiphany or a (‘spear in the chest’ as he often refers to it) and realised that his company’s “take, make, waste” cycle of manufacturing products was environmentally and fundamentally flawed. Anderson and InterfaceFLOR subsequently set out on a “mid-course correction,” changing the company’s business model to consider and reduce the environmental impact of every creative, manufacturing and building decision made and pioneering the sustainability movement for the industrial world. When the company reached its 15th milestone anniversary – having started Mission Zero on 31 August 1994 - Lindsey Parnell, CEO and President of InterfaceFLORFLOR, the modular flooring division of InterfaceFLOR Inc. said, “15 years ago InterfaceFLOR was one of the first companies to publicly commit to sustainability and set a real target of where we wanted the company to be in the future.” “Mission Zero continues to underpin every dimension of our com-
58
The company has also pioneered Cool Green, a system which allows manufacturing and carpet waste to be recycled back
pany, from process, product and profits to people and place. I firmly believe that this holistic approach is what has allowed us to make the
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Carpets
irregular isotropic domed or linear domed formation. Bates Access Flooring supplies access flooring solutions that are ideal for the flexible high churn environment of the modern office. The finishes available are carpeting (factory laminated or loose-lay carpet tiles), electrostatic vinyl tiles, and high pressure laminates. All access floor solutions are non-combustible, extremely strong and have great load bearing capacity. Bates Access Flooring offers access flooring solutions that are ideally suited for general office environments; computer rooms; equipment
Accessing the ultimate solution
rooms; control rooms; network rooms; patch rooms; internet service providers; call centres and casinos. This also means that Bates Access Flooring provides solutions for managing the flexible hi-churn requirements in
Bates Access Flooring is one of the leading specialist suppliers and installers of raised access flooring and associated flooring products, and also provides cable management systems and supply related access flooring accessories and floorcoverings.
modern office environments where flexibility in office plan reconfiguration is important, and in managing the movement of underfloor services with regard to data, power and HVAC management. The precision engineered modular panel, with its unique isotropic or linear design is a structurally rigid steel assembly with a cementitious core and conductive baked paint finish, is non-combustible and provides a solid quiet finished product
Raised access flooring is the ultimate solution for new or renovated
that is ideal for today’s modern hi-tech environment.
spaces. The access floor systems provided by Bates are manufactured
Bates Access Flooring
and distributed locally and internationally, and the panels used are
Tel: 011 608 4270 Fax: 011 608 4278
structurally rigid steel, cement filled, with a non-combustible flat
E-mail: jbates@mweb.co.za
full hard top sheet, resistance welded to the steel bottom section of
Website: www.batesaccessflooring.co.za
9 Voyager Street, Linbro Park, PO Box 1628, Gallo Manor, 2052 Tel: +27 11 608 4270 • Cell: +27 82 604 5242 • Fax: +27 11 608 4278 E-Mail: jbates@mweb.co.za • Website: www.batesaccessflooring.co.za
60 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
industrial flooring feature Industrial flooring is an extremely hi-tech and highly competitive market, but there is so much development in this sector that many systems have moved beyond the realm of ‘industrial’ flooring and entered the design arena in a big way.
61 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
lifeline
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Such a vast array of industrial flooring
A
part from the obvious essential applications in factories and warehousing, the food and beverage industry, exhibition areas, sports centres and many more, recent inno-
Must read article!
vations have created a demand for the more aesthetic, coloured and custom-designed floors required by entertainment areas, showrooms, boutiques and other retail applications – that can all be met by this sector. Concrete The ubiquitous concrete floor is more than holding its own in this sector, and it can be said that this is often the first thought
Industrial flooring is an extremely hi-tech and highly competitive market, but there is so
for anyone requiring a floor made from local materials that can handle heavy loads. The use of aggregate screeds and a variety of hardening agents
much development in this sector that many
and toppings – added to the fact that concrete actually gets
systems have moved beyond the realm of
lasting floors that require minimum maintenance while providing
‘industrial’ flooring and entered the design arena in a big way.
stronger over time – means that these floors provide tough, longresistance to rolling and grinding stresses, impact and pressure, thermal shock, and plant traffic of all varieties. Floors that are subjected to intense load conditions, including heavy point loads and impact stresses, are often reinforced with plastic or steel fibre to ensure maximum stability and integrity at
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joints, as well as superior crack control.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Concrete is no slouch in the aesthetic area
in this application – thereby making the initial
of epoxy floors, they can provide
either, and polished concrete has become the
installation more expensive than the traditional
technologically sound solutions
flavour of the month for many architects and
materials in projects such as schools and similar
for almost any industrial applica-
interior designers – even in residential applica-
– this is rapidly recovered by a fast payback in
tion, and UV- and heat-resistant
tions. In addition, coloured concrete can be
very low maintenance costs.
polyurethane screeds are now
provided in certain instances, but it has been
commonly specified.
proven that stained concrete is subject to fad-
Epoxy and Polyurethane
ing over time.
Heavy duty epoxy screeds are often used in
mechanical strength, and epoxy
factories where floors are subject to high impact
and polymer screeds on con-
wear, abrasion and chemical attack.
crete floors provide a seamless
However, concrete is eco-friendly, using locally available materials and having the ability to be
These floors have very good
recycled at the end of its life. It can also help
Larger areas may require movement joints if
with indoor air quality and the reduction of
there is likely to be any movement in the under-
characteristics and the ability to
lighting costs in some instances, it can store
lying screed.
perform in areas with forklift and
heat, has a long working life and requires minimal maintenance. This last-mentioned benefit is particularly
Old and damaged concrete can also be successfully resurfaced in an epoxy screed. However,
floor with heavy-duty wear
heavy truck traffic. The self-levelling varieties are
decorative epoxy screeds using coloured quartz
commonly used in kitchens,
important because, although polished concrete
are not as resilient to high impact wear and abra-
dining rooms, storage areas,
must be provided by a specialist flooring con-
sion, but are resistant to chemical attack.
car workshops and suchlike,
tractor that has had considerable experience
Given the inherent performance characteristics
because they protect the concrete from wear, chemical corrosion and chemical deterioration, combined with ease of cleaning and low maintenance. With no cracks or angled corners, these floorcoverings provide the ultimate in hygienic flooring. Mostly, these floors are antislip, fire-resistant, anti-bacterial, and can be provided with dust-repelling treatments and antistatic properties – making them ideally suitable for use in laboratories, hospitals or anywhere that sensitive electronic equipment is being used, or where a static-free environment is imperative. Apart from producing a clean working environment and a non-slip surface, these floors increase the light reflectivity and brighten the work area, which saves electricity and enables work efficiencies to be maximised. Other Nowhere is the aphorism ‘Horses for courses’ more apt than in the industrial flooring sector, because these floors often need to be resistant to oils and grease,
floorworx
non-skid and slip-resistant, and are regularly called upon to solve specific problems such as those found in wet and cold
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
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Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
room applications. This means that many other types of flooring material can
Resilient floorcoverings Vinyl sheeting and tiles have a role to play in industrial flooring,
fall under the industrial banner, depending on the application.
particularly where relatively seamless surfaces or anti-static prop-
Different varieties of ceramic tiles, vinyl sheeting and vinyl tiles,
erties are required. Easy to clean and provided with covings and
PVC and rubber products, interlocking tiles, and several other
edgings that eliminate corners in which bacteria can thrive, these
forms of specialist floorcoverings all have a role to play.
products find favour in a wide variety of light industrial and engineering applications.
Ceramic tiles
The PVC and rubber products – including the interlocking tile
Ceramic and porcelain tiles can provide a versatile solution in
varieties – are commonly used in industrial areas where foot
various industrial applications. If properly installed, a ceramic tile
comfort is necessary for workers standing at machines or coun-
will outperform and outlast many other flooring products in the
ters all day; they are also water- and oil-resistant, and enable the
same situation, and tiles are easy to clean and maintain.
workshop floor to be keep free of dirt, metal particles and swarf
Glazed ceramic tile resists stains, odours and dirt, is scratchresistant, does not retain allergens or bacteria, and can be hosed
in light engineering facilities. The various matting options available also contribute to the anti-
down as required in certain applications. So it becomes apparent
stress requirements of the workplace, and these in turn compete
that tile can be used in a wide variety of industrial applications
in terms of non-slip, easy-to-clean, impact-resistant, functional sur-
for food and beverage manufacture and preparation, in projects
faces that can cope with and protect against wet underfoot condi-
where dust-free cleanliness is a prime requisite.
tions by providing an integral drainage system in their design.
It is also fire-resistant, and will not burn or emit toxic fumes. A
South Africa is a global innovator in the performance and capa-
lighted cigarette, when dropped on the floor, even if allowed to
bilities of some industrial floorcoverings, but the technological
lie, will not do any damage to ceramic tile.
advances are extensive and ever-changing, so specifiers should
Even hot kitchen pans or skillets will not scorch or melt the
investigate the source of the materials and the expertise of the sup-
surface of glazed ceramic tile, and in these applications the water
pliers and contractors they intend to use for their industrial flooring
resistance of ceramic tiles means spills from common liquids
projects – particularly as there are relatively few local standards or
found in a kitchen are not a big concern.
codes of practice, and no specialist associations in this country.
6 different patterns 8 standard colours Complete Stair System Enhanced abrasion resistance Superior chemical resistance Jumbo Tiles – a ‘look-alike’ ceramic tile Conductive floor tiles for electronically sensitive areas also available
64
Tel (011) 397 3330 • Fax (011) 397 3810 • e-mail: transitf@mweb.co.za • www.transittiles.com F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Repairs at Saldanha Steel When Saldanha Steel undertook a substantial renovation project, Sika was contracted to supply the construction products for the repairs and refurbishment of the internal floor and wall areas. The combined value of the project amounted to approximately R6 million and BKS/ Mittal, the on-site engineers, called on Sika to provide advanced quality products and professional training for the contractors, Potgieter Boudienste, Phutuma Projects and Lattie Potgieter. The floors, which had an existing screed, and other substrates had to undergo extensive remedial work which involved the cleaning,
∆ Products being applied inside clarifiers
sanding and water-jetting of all surfaces. After prep work was completed the areas had to be resurfaced in a very short time due to the
tar whose primary function is as a thin film sealer and moisture bar-
limited shutdown period allocated by the plant.
rier on both floors and walls.
The repairs, relining and renovations completed during the course
Because Sikagard-720 EpoCem ZA acts as a temporary moisture bar-
of this project included three surface areas on which Sika products
rier it allows epoxy and polyurethane coatings to be applied within
were applied. The internal floor and wall areas of the Midrex/Corex
approximately 24 hrs without the problem of osmotic blistering from
clarifiers were first prepared for resurfacing by vigorous cleaning of
damp substrate. Normally new floors would have to wait until mois-
the existing substrates.
ture levels are below 4% before applying a coating, which could take
The Sika solution allowed for a shorter application time. 5 500m²
weeks.
of Sikagard-63N was used following the application of Sikagard-720
Having no specialist experience of using Sika products prior to this
EpoCem ZA. Sikagard-63N is a two-part epoxy resin coating used for
project, the contractors had to be trained by Sika before application
protecting a wide variety of substrates against the effects of highly
and, to their credit; all surfaces were completed on schedule.
aggressive chemical environments, corrosion and weathering. Sikagard-720 EpoCem ZA is a superfine epoxy-cement sealing mor-
For further information on Sika products and systems, visit www.sika.co.za.
65 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Popular flooring system for George dairy plant a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ popular abeco mastic flooring system was used for the repair of concrete flooring at the Milfos Dairy Systems plant in George on the Garden Route. Johnie Emmerich, a.b.e.’s technical sales consultant in the southern Cape, says about 360m² of the existing concrete floor was covered with a 12mm thick application of abeco mastic by the contractor, C&M Concrete Floors. abeco mastic provided a seamless surface for the high-traffic dairy plant floor. “abeco mastic is a unique flooring system in that it performs exceptionally well in high-traffic areas – it actually seems to revel in such conditions,” he says. “The system provides a non-slip matt finish and, when heavy, sharp objects – which would normally scar the floor – fall or are dropped on its surface, the abeco floor simply ‘heals’ itself, smoothing out the damaged area over a short period of time,” Emmerich adds. abeco mastic is a cold-laid bituminous mastic consisting of stone chippings, portland cement, sand and a binder. The product has been
a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ abeco mastic flooring system was used for the repair of concrete flooring at Milfos Dairy Systems.
Emmerich states. The product is ideal for the floors of warehouses, railway platforms,
successfully used in flooring applications for close to 50 years (a.b.e. is
printing works, explosives magazines, loading bays, paper storage
celebrating its 70th anniversary this year).
and packing areas, cold rooms, flour mills and ships’ decks.
“Single areas laid with abeco mastic have often exceeded 10
a.b.e. Construction Chemicals Limited
000m². Construction joints are usually unnecessary – the abeco
Tel: 011 306 9000
mastic joints simply disappear after a few days of traffic exposure,”
Website: www.abe.co.za
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Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
MATCO matting systems
Safe and comfortable
Safety Duckboard
Occupational safety at the workplace is one thing; increasing productivity by reducing fatigue for employees that spend all day on their feet is another, but anyone with these concerns can benefit enormously by using the versatile Safety Duckboard system from Matco. This unique product is supplied in a 460mm x 460mm tile format, 18mm thick, which interlocks to provide an attractive, anti-slip surface for any size of floor area, and it is particularly beneficial in areas where continuously wet underfoot conditions prevail because its design facilitates good drainage – the water simply runs through or underneath the duckboard. Manufactured from high-quality PVC, the Matco Safety Duckboard is a modern protective floorcovering that can absorb high impact, and is ideal for warehouse applications, where it is particularly useful for keeping goods off the floor. The impact resistance of the duckboard also provides a level of protection for any items that may fall off a bench; and to meet the ISO requirement for demarcation areas around machines, these tiles can
Comfortable to stand on • Facilitates good drainage Non-Slip • Protective floor covering Absorbs high impact • Constructed from PVC Easy to install • Inter-locking • Attractive
be provided in a range of colours (depending on quantity). The industrial applications that can be served by using this versatile matting system are legion; they can be used inside refrigeration rooms, change rooms and shower cubicles because they will not rot or sustain mildew, and can be hosed down to keep the areas fresh and clean. The Matco Safety Duckboard is one of the quality products within the Matco sales programme for industrial applications which can accommodate the needs of both light and heavy engineering applications. It can be used with considerable benefit behind counters, in canteens and kitchens – it is even finding favour in restaurants and
Tile Size – 460 x 460mm Thickness – 18mm Applications • Any area in which wet conditions prevail • Behind Bar Counters • Inside Fridges • Workshops • Warehouses
other food preparation areas. Anyone interested in obtaining a sample, a quotation, or learning more about this impressive range should contact Matco at the numbers shown below or visit the website www.matcomarketing.co.za. Matco Marketing Tel: 011 452 7961 Fax: 011 452 7965 E-mail: nicole@matcomats.co.za / jean@matcomats.co.za
Matco Head Office Tel: 011 452 7962 • Fax: 011 452 7965 jean@matcomats.co.za nicole@matcomats.co.za
www.matcomarketing.co.za
Website: www.matcomarketing.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
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Ensuring level floors Colloquially known as The King of Screeds, the Isocrete K-Screed has been the most commonly specified product in the Flowcrete range for the past four decades – allowing for the early installation of sensitive finishes with the minimum risk of cracking. Just look at the benefits it provides: • Speeds up installation times • Earlier foot traffic, with faster time on site for following trades • Low shrinkage formulation • Choice of thickness levels • Excellent compressive strength and drying times • Minimised risk of cracking • Excellent impact resistance Full technical information available from: Flowcrete SA Johannesburg: Durban: Cape Town: Website:
011 394 1980 031 461 3411 021 797 0214 www.flowcrete.com
WELCOME
TO FLOWCRETE – for the world at your feet Flowcrete’s commitment to exceptional design, technical support and advisory services, from initial enquiry through to installation, is at the heart of our business philosophy. Our global success is driven by our commitment to excellence: excellence in products, excellence in service and excellence in people.
Flowcrete can transform any environment and offers you the unique Floorzone package Flowcrete’s unique Floorzone concept consolidates the flooring needs of your entire project – building up the surface of the floor from substrate to finish. Combined with excellent aesthetics our systems are backed by comprehensive product warranties, ensuring that Flowcrete floors are built to last.
Transforming airport environments The airport encompasses a number of specialised zones, ranging from passenger terminal buildings, control towers, cargo buildings and aircraft hangars through to fire stations and back-of-house operational and maintenance facilities.
www.flowcrete.com
* UK
1
Ga
tw i
, ck
Passenger Terminal Buildings Airport terminal buildings – from flight check-in through to baggage reclaim – require eye-catching floor finishes as well as subfloor screeds with extreme wear, scratch and abrasion resistance so as to withstand heavy volumes of foot and trolley-wheeled traffic. Resin floor finishes from Flowcrete are not only visually stunning but also low-maintenance and hygienic with excellent durability.
Sign atu re
• Mondéco Crystal • Flowfast Terrosso • Peran SL • Isocrete K-Screed K. n, U tio a i Av
Aircraft Hangars
2
Aircraft hangars are built to protect – a key reason as to why Flowcrete manufactures industrial floor coatings that offer the necessary durability as well as chemical, impact, wear and fire resistance requirements of back-of-house hangar facilities. In particular, Flowcoat SK, a system uniquely tailored to withstand the corrosive effects of Skydrol aviation fluid and ensure safety underfoot with an adjustable anti-slip profile.
g,
nce Fra
Airline Catering
3
Airline catering kitchens are responsible for producing hundreds of fresh in-flight meals each day. With time being of the essence, demanding catering companies require hygienic flooring solutions such as Flowfresh, a system that incorporates a natural silver-ion-based antimicrobial technology, Polygiene®, to destroy any bacteria, including E-coli and Salmonella, that settle on the surface of the floor.
Ser vair
Ca ter in
• Flowcoat SK • Flowcoat TL • Flowcoat SF41
• Flowfresh HF • Flowfresh MF . UK al, n o
Transport Services
Birmingham Int
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at i
4
Railway platforms, bus terminals, shuttle stops and underground metro stations all require wear-resistant flooring systems that create a welcoming platform underfoot for air passengers travelling to and from the terminal building. Flowcrete’s Mondéco seamless terrazzo range is ideal to service the needs of these busy environments, delivering a seamless surface that is built to last.
AE
.
Car Parks
5
Dubai Internatio na
l,
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• Mondéco Crystal • Mondéco Classic • Mondéco Exotic
For most the car park is where the airport experience begins and ends. Deckshield waterproof car park decking from Flowcrete not only visually improves the appearance of car parks but also protects and waterproofs the structure. Deckshield comes with a highly accredited fire rating, boasts excellent durability and wear resistance and is available in a decorative range of welcoming colours.
T5 Energy row Ce ath ntr e e, H
• Deckshield ED • Deckshield ID UK
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6
Maintenance Buildings Maintenance buildings play a big role in keeping the airport’s operations moving. Flowcrete offers a number of industrial floor coatings and systems suitable for use in back-of-house maintenance areas that are able to meet a host of performance criteria including high mechanical, chemical and impact resistance as well as being easily cleaned and maintained. • Flowfast Quartz • Flowshield Quartz • Peran STB
Flowcrete SA Johannesburg: 011 394 1980 | Durban: 031 461 3411 | Cape Town: 021 797 0214 | Website: www.flowcrete.com
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
The epitome of
70 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Flowcrete is a world leader in the manufacture of seamless industrial and commercial flooring, spanning the globe with manufacturing facilities across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas.
F
lowcrete South Africa is the regional manufacturing and
strength – these are just a few benefits of this heavy-duty flooring
commercial centre for its specialist resin flooring operations,
product.
supporting commercial and industrial flooring projects across the
Other benefits include: bacteria- and fungi-resistant; non-tainting and non-dusting; withstands high mechanical stress and has high
entire sub-Saharan African region. This includes supplying world-class seamless flooring solutions and construction chemicals, and innovative industrial and decorative commercial resin flooring through to high-performance
abrasion resistance as well as providing a positive slip resistance. It is heat-resistant to 120ºC at a 9mm thickness and, having minimal joints, it is easy to clean and sterilise – it is even steam-cleanable.
coating, lining and adhesive systems, with an
Flowcrete sales and marketing director Craig
extensive portfolio of specialist performance flooring systems designed to innovatively transform any environment. The dedicated team of Flowcrete South Africa is inspired by excellence in people,
Flowcrete manufactures a wide range of seamless flooring products...
Blitenthall says, “A new industrial floor can play a vital role in enhancing the working environment – with a positive effect on the bottom line.” “This not only improves the appearance of any
products and service as well as continual inno-
workspace with a bright and easily cleaned floor
vation and sustainable growth. An in-depth
finish, but other innovations such as cleverly
understanding of the resin flooring industry,
placed demarcation lines and bright signage can
together with a passion for creating engaging yet efficient envi-
actually help to create cleaner, tidier and safer environments in any
ronments, all combine to meet the requirements of any industrial
industrial application,” he says.
flooring application. Flowcrete manufactures a wide range of seamless flooring prod-
For more information on how Flowcrete can help you to select the best system for your next industrial application (new or refurbish-
ucts, which fulfils the needs of both the commercial and indus-
ment), contact Flowcrete South Africa at the numbers shown below,
trial sectors. In the industrial marketplace, these include ultra-fast
or visit www.flowcrete.com.
curing systems, the hardest-wearing resins for industry, through
Flowcrete SA (Pty) Ltd
to high-technology antistatic systems.
Durban - 031 461 3411
A polyurethane resin flooring system – Flowfresh HF – is also
Johannesburg - 011 394 1980
available, used to create a durable surface in a number of indus-
Cape Town - 021 797 0214
trial environments. Excellent chemical resistance, durability and
E-mail: southafrica@flowcrete.com
71 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
coloured cement C
emkolor was created with the undertaking to achieve a fresh approach to the world of decorative cement products and applications, and has embarked upon a comprehensive research and development programme with both European and South African companies to manufacture durable, attractive and cost-effective products for both domestic and commercial projects. The contract division has been established in South Africa for the last 10 years and has been involved in some of the major commercial installations in the last decade. As experts in decorative coloured cement, Cemkolor will guide you through from concept to installation. Cemkolor has been founded on the principle of customer satisfaction together with the supply of quality-assured product and services to ensure the continuing and rapid development of the decorative cement product market. Cement offers a clean, modern and ultra stylish feel that is easily maintained and can be applied to both walls and floors – offering a complete one-stop solution. Specialising in everything from coloured floors and walls to imprinted paving, some of the main products that are included in the Cemkolor sales programme include: Colour hardener – A smooth floor coating that structurally strengthens floor surfaces whilst decoratively colouring the floor and providing a
72
hardwearing functional surface. Cemkolor
Tel: 011 708 6284
Fax: 011 708 7811
E-mail: cemkolor@mweb.co.za
Website: www.cemkolor.co.za
Tuscany Plaster – A rough, aged/distressed exterior and interior coating that ages over time to create an authentic plaster from a bygone era as the name suggests. Velvaskim – A beautiful, ultrasmooth mottled plaster for interior walls to create a warm living wall finish that is full of character. Cempaint – A rough-textured coating that is washed/painted onto wall surfaces. It creates an attractive contemporary rough finish that matures over time. Used both internally and externally. Chemstain – A reactive compound to permanently stain or etch colours into existing surfaces. Bush Scratch Plaster – A very rough coloured plaster for interior and exterior walls. For further information on the company and its product range can be obtained from the website www.cemkolor.co.za alternatively give them a call to talk concepts for your projects.
Mapefloor System
Application
Systems for resin oorings. A complete range of epoxy and polyurethane floorings systems for industrial and civil environments, showrooms, shopping centres and supermarkets. • Continuous surfaces without joints • Water-repellent, hygienic and easy to clean • Excellent mechanical resistance and resistance to chemical agents • Available in several colour shades • Very short application times • Long-lasting
www.mapei.co.za
Contact us: +27 11 552 8476 or info@mapei.co.za ADHESIVES • SEALANTS • CHEMICAL PRODUCTS FOR BUILDING
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
High-performance flooring
I
ndustrial Flooring Systems (IFS) is a leading South African specialist contracting company that installs high-performance flooring for all
industrial environments. The core focus of the company is the installation of floor finishes in the Industrial, Commercial, Pharmaceutical and Food & Beverage producing environments. Added to this is the recent commencement with the floor finishes for the Department of Public Works (DPW) in association with the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) for the new prisons currently under construction in the Western Cape totalling some 17 000 square meters of floors and a further 5 000 linear meters of coved skirtings. IFS commenced business in 1982 and takes pride in the fact that it provides quality floor finishes with a sound back-up and support
sistent with their requirements and that the cost of ownership
infrastructure. For a broader overview view the company profile on
represents true value, IFS works closely with all the major indus-
the website www.ifs.co.za, where you can also view previous con-
trial flooring manufacturers, including BASF; Mapei; Plascon;
tracts and references, identify the client base and view the relevant
Stoncor (Pro-Struct); Sika; Resdev; Flowcrete; Technical Finishes;
contact details for a branch closest to you.
Polyscreed and abe.
In 2003 the efforts of IFS were rewarded when a Fulton Award of
This close association includes regular technical meetings to
Commendation was made to the company in recognition of the work
ensure that the staff of IFS is kept up to date with developments
carried out at the SALT (SA Large Telescope) project at Sutherland.
in the suppliers’ product ranges.
This highly technical application was designed in association with
Industrial Flooring Systems (Pty) Ltd.
Technical Finishes and applied by IFS. The finish required was for a
Tel: 021 535 4152 Fax: 021 535 4156
super-flat, smooth, heavy-duty concrete surface.
Web: www.ifs.co.za
In order to ensure that our clients’ flooring installations are con-
Email: info@ifs.co.za
Leading specialist contracting company Core focus on installation of floor finishes in the following sectors: industrial • commercial • pharmaceutical • food & beverage Goal of providing a superior contracting service to manufacturers of specialist flooring products. C a p e T o w n 0 2 1 5 3 5 - 415 2
G a u t e n g 0 11 7 9 4 - 6 2 2 4
Industrial Flooring Systems (Pty) Ltd. Applicators of High Performance Industrial Flooring
E a s t e r n C a p e 0 41 3 74 - 4 3 2 8 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
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Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Oily Workshop Floors? I
s your workshop floor looking unsightly, cracked with peeling paint and contaminated by oil, or just old and in need of a re-vamp?
Manufactured in South Africa, Plasti Lock vinyl floor tiles are not only a
cost-effective solution to your floor problems, but also hardwearing and easy to install. The tiles clip into one another like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle and therefore adhesive is not required in some of the applications. The tiles are used indoors and can be installed over hard carpets, tiles, concrete and wooden surfaces with ease, providing that the sub-floor is relatively level and hard.
• Carpets (Broadloom & Tiles)
Two ranges are available in these versatile floor tiles:
• Vinyl cushion floors
The Original, made from superior-grade recycled and/or virgin-based
• Vinyl floor tiles
the Big Brother – available in the 5 and 7mm thick stud pattern and
vinyl – available in two surface patterns and a range of colours, and
• Underlays
manufactured from black reclaimed material.
• Underfloor heating
Tel: 011 873 1292 Fax: 011 873 3328
Tuff Floors (Africa)
• Fitting accessories
E-mail: info@tuffloors.co.za Website : www.tuffloors.co.za
e ent ser vic For excell SELBORNE
CARPET WHOLESALERS cc
SELBORNE
CARPET WHOLESALERS cc JOHANNESBURG Tel (011) 493-6600
n Easy i
stall
ation
Safe No ad
hesiv
Cost effec
e
tive
KROONSTAD Tel (056) 212-7665/2128295 PRETORIA Tel (012) 335-0201 DURBAN Tel (031) 569-3371/2/3 CAPE TOWN (021) 418-3128
76
Fax: (021) 418-3127 • Cell: 082 442 8795
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
011 873-1292 | info@tuffloors.co.za | www.tuffloors.co.za
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Astounding performance of The performance of Chryso South Africa’s new “green” dustless tile adhesives has astounded seasoned building industry professionals. For example, the tile adhesives were recently applied for internal and external tiling during the construction of one of the sprawling upmarket mansions in the Waterfall Country & Equestrian Estate in Sunninghill, Sandton. The emphasis is strongly on responsible ecology at this prestigious 200-hectare estate being developed by Century Property
For more information please contact your CHRYSO representative at 0861 CHRYSO
Developments. The estate features over 2 000 indigenous trees with free irrigation water provided for the affluent homeowners who live on 8 500m² stands. Chryso’s Davco SAC 28 ECO premium-grade tile adhesive, and Davco TTB tile adhesive – both dustless tile adhesives – were used by tiling contractor, Julio Building & Tiles, for the expansive tiled areas in the multi-million-Rand House Rebel in the Waterfall estate, for which Jan
Environmentally Friendly Tile Adhesive with Dust Less Technology
du Plessis was contract manager. Julio Jorge, owner of Julio Building & Tiles, commented afterwards, “I was extremely sceptical about the new dustless adhesives at the start. ‘Prove it!’ I said. After all, in my many years in tiling, I had never seen tile adhesives that do not produce dust. But I was wrong. The two Davco products produced hardly any dust… my workers could not believe their eyes.” Jan du Plessis was also extremely impressed. “There was hardly any dust when the bags were emptied… It was the ideal product for this estate – and this particular eco-friendly residence.” Hannes Engelbrecht, marketing manager of Chryso SA, says the Davco dustless tile adhesives are made from recycled materials and
CHRYSO Southern Africa (PTY) Ltd. 0861 CHRYSO GAUTENG: 26 Malcolm Moodie Crescent, Jet Park Tel: +27 (0)11 395 9700 Fax: +27 (0)11 397 6644 DURBAN: Unit 3, 14 Travertine Crescent, Briardene Tel: +27 (0)31 564 0325 Fax: +27 (0)31 564 0583 CAPE TOWN: 57 Assegaai Road, Parow, Industria Tel: +27 (0)21 933 5953 Fax: +27 (0)21 933 5991 PORT ELIZABETH: cr Lower Valley Road, Alabaster Str Tel: +27 (0)41 582 4260 Fax: +27 (0)41 582 4261
produce about 80% less dust than traditional tile adhesives. “The result is improved air quality, healthier working conditions, less mess and faster clean-up on site.” “The adhesives spread easily and provide exceptional workability, longer open time, and high bond strength, and no special effort or steps are required in the tiling process,” he stated. The Davco tile adhesives also offer waterproof properties, and are non-toxic and non-flammable. Chryso
77
Tel: 011 395 9700 Fax: 011 397 6644 Website: www.chryso.com
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
Industrial flooring par excellence! A
s well as being South Africa’s only manufacturer of vinyl floorcoverings, including semi-
flexible tiles, fully flexible vinyl sheeting and tiles,
where performance is a prerequisite, which is man-
and a prominent importer of a comprehensive
ufactured with a wear surface that is embossed or
range of international resilient floorcoverings,
studded to ensure its non-slip properties. Available
laminate and wood flooring, FloorworX (a member
in a range of 7embossed and 7 studded colours,
of the Accéntuate Group of Companies) has two
FloorworX Industrial Floor is provided in sheet-
products in its sales programme that are ideally
ing 1m wide and 15m in length, in either 2mm or
suitable for industrial applications.
3,5mm thickness.
This includes the internationally acclaimed
Amongst its many attributes, this sheeting
Norament 825 natural rubber floor tiles which are
provides excellent recovery from indentation; a
specially designed for heavy-traffic areas, and
flammability of SANS 0177 Part 4 – Class 2; and
made available with a classic round pastille surface
good resistance to everyday chemical substances
in a solid colour.
– although FloorworX is able to give advice on
Floors surfaced with Norament 825 are slip-
resistance to specific chemicals, if required. It
resistant (in accordance with OSHA requirements),
can also be classified as an electrically insulated
pleasantly warm underfoot, and permanently resil-
floorcovering; not conductive or antistatic in
ient. They also combine high walking comfort and
nature.
a good sound absorption value of 9db. Ideal for budget-conscious commercial applica-
78
FloorworX Industrial Floor is a flexible vinyl floor sheeting designed for high-wear applications
Full technical information on these products is available by contacting FloorworX at the numbers
tions such as healthcare facilities, retail chains,
shown below, including installation guidelines and
stadiums and schools, they are also excellent for
cleaning suggestions.
wheeled traffic (with an ultra-low vibration), and
FloorworX Marketing Department
are available with colour-coordinated accessories
Tel: 011 406 4146
and stair treads. Colours include medium and Dark
Fax: 011 406 4205
Grey, Black, Deep Blue and Safari Tan.
Website: www.floorworx.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: I ndustrial Flooring
High-quality flooring materials as well as linings! SA Industrial Linings (SAILS) has been in existence for over 27 years, during which time it has gained an enviable reputation for the design, manufacture and application of specialist corrosion resistant lining systems to concrete and steel throughout Africa. Highly qualified staff add their collective experience to proven technology to assist clients with design and selection of suitable materials for a wide range of applications, including acid resistant brick and tile linings; carbon brick linings; Flakeglass tank linings; fibreglass linings; epoxy and polyurethane resin coatings and screeds, pulp chest linings; to meet the requirements of the food and beverage industries,
provides an extensive range of rapid hardening concrete repair mortars, wet to dry epoxy primers, epoxy and self levelling polyurethane floor screeds, epoxy bolt-hole grouts; epoxy tile grouts and bedding mortars; and non-shrink, super flow cement grouts. Anyone wishing to know more should contact SAILS at the numbers provided below or visit their website.
chemical
SA Industrial Linings
plants and the
Tel: 011 392 3983/7
mining industry. In addition, SAILS
Fax: 011 392 3977 E-mail: john@sails.co.za
S.A Industrial Linings (Pty) Ltd
Tel: (011) 392 3983 Fax: (011) 392 3977 Website: www.sails.edx.co.za E-mail: john@sails.co.za
79 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Numatic addresses the pressing P
erhaps the biggest issues facing the South African flooring and cleaning industries are those dealing with black empowerment, skills training and corporate social investment – and Numatic International SA is dealing with them in a planned and constructive manner. Sales manager Janine Lotz says, “The key to our success is in creating jobs, sharing knowledge and investing in people. Our products are about creating jobs thereby spreading the wealth, and the success of our business is based on sharing our knowledge gained over 40 years’ experience in the cleaning industry.” “Our products are simple in design but designed to be powerful and reliable. With superior engineering and thought process behind our designs it is the end-user and time-saving processes that are in the forefront of our minds,” she says. “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.” Numatic is also a keen supporter of the BBBEE 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. Skills training The recently announced partnership with 3M allows Numatic to considerably enhance it own skills training programmes, which in this case take the form of structured, planned training programmes held at its well-appointed Training Centre in Johannesburg, as well as informal, on-site training as required. These programmes, for Numatic staff and distributors together with the staff of major customers, are certainly intensive and comprehensive, and those that accomplish all the requirements of these courses are provided with a Numatic certificate of competence. Another important aspect in this regard is covered by the Numatic Annual Awards – the last of which took place in November 2009. All Numatic’s floorcare distributors are invited to participate in a yearlong assessment programme (detailed on individual scorecards) and the best of the best is recognised by being presented with an award.
80
Social responsibility Levels of corporate investment in social causes – known as corporate social investment (CSI) – has steadily grown in importance in South Africa, and the pressure is on for companies to be seen to be doing good work for their communities. CSI initiatives are projects that are in addition to a company’s normal business activities and are not for
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
profit. They aim to uplift and develop communities and are seen as an investment in society and essential for good corporate citizenship. Concern for the environment Conserving resources and reducing waste save money and this is of considerable concern to Numatic, who provide practical solutions for their customers to implement. This will ensure any business is environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. For example, when an office cleaner mops the kitchen floor he or she probably uses the same spaghetti mop used to clean the toilet floors earlier in the day. Not only is this extremely unhygienic but it also increases the risk of spreading disease-causing bacteria to advance to the area where food is prepared and eaten. In addition, spaghetti mops waste a lot of water and rely on harmful chemicals to disinfect the floors and facilitate cleaning. Dewald Botha, general manager of Numatic, says, “The Mopmatic system is designed to provide a practical answer to the disciplined maintenance of floors by people in sensitive or critical areas where standards are all important. It is easy to use and with minimal changes to your cleaning process you can soon boast an environmentally friendly, cleaner and healthier working environment.” The Numatic Mopmatic Buckets are colour coded, ensuring that dirt and bacteria are not transferred from one mop head to another. All mop handles are fitted with flat press technology which allows the operator to clean and dry mop heads with minimal spillage. In addition, Mopmatic trolley options are compact and versatile making transport and storage a key factor to its success. The operation of this product is easy to follow and will ensure that spending on water, cleaning products and new cleaning equipment is dramatically reduced. Numatic has taken every aspect of a clean and healthy office environment into consideration and has a solution to suit all cleaning needs. Just another example of Numatic’s attention to detail and care for the environment. To end on a lighter note… One of the highlights of the Numatic social calendar is its annual golf day – held every year in October – which is looked forward to and well supported by Numatic customers. Anyone wishing to learn more about the Numatic sales programme, training programmes and its concern for both skills development and the environment, should make contact on the telephone numbers shown below, or visit the website www.numatic.co.za Numatic International Tel: 0861 numatic (686284) Website: www.numatic.co.za
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
training feature
The need for skills development and higher standards of quality workmanship within South Africa is of paramount importance to the country as a whole – not just to provide income, upliftment and regular employment to the previously underprivileged, but also to ensure future economic growth.
81 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Meeting the need! Must read article!
The need for skills development and higher stan-
it was reported on in an uncomplicated form (no officialese),
dards of quality workmanship within South Africa
and we have had several requests for this to be repeated and
is of paramount importance to the country as a whole – not just to provide income, upliftment and regular employment to the previously underprivileged, but also to ensure future economic growth.
T
updated. Although we do not intend to provide chapter and verse again on these subjects, we have shown below the basic principles and guidelines. Perhaps the most pertinent aspect of the Skills Development Levies Act is that certain employers and organisations are required to pay 1% of gross payroll as a levy, which goes towards the funding of the skills development of
he lack of adequately trained employees has been an increasingly
the South African workforce in general. The levy may not be
prevalent problem in the flooring industry, and although many
deducted from workers’ pay.
companies have established their own product and installation train-
Prior to 01 August 2005, the payroll threshold for the pay-
ing programmes to ensure that contractors are conversant with the
ment of SDL was R250 000 but since that date (with few
requirements of the relevant product ranges, in real terms this does
exceptions) any organisation with a gross annual payroll in
not fully address the overall problem.
excess of R500 000 must pay SDL. Employers who ‘qualify’ to
There is no doubt that these individual efforts have an important role
pay SDL must register with SARS to this effect.
to play in upgrading the skills and installation procedures of fitters and
However, if your organisation was paying SDL before 1
floor layers in general, and those attending and meeting the require-
August 2005 you may be SDL-exempt because your payroll
ments of the various training courses will get first hand experience,
now does not reach the required amount, so check with SARS
expert tuition and certificates showing a certain level of competency.
to see if you are still liable to pay this levy.
However, they are not CETA-accredited courses and are mostly not
Of the monies collected, 80% goes to the relevant Sector
based on NQF learning modules, although in some cases these cours-
Education & Training Authority (SETA) and 20% to the Skills
es do count towards the BEE ratings of the participating companies.
Development Fund to pay for training. Employers can get back
In the same vein, another step in the right direction is the exceptional
up to 50% of this money as a refund if they train their workers.
development that has recently evolved from the carpet industry – with
The relevant SETA for the flooring industry is the
the major local manufacturers having collaborated under the guidance
Construction Education & Training Authority (CETA –
of a professional facilitator in the provision of a comprehensive carpet
www.ceta.org.za) and to claim for training against SDL the fol-
fitter’s handbook and training manual, which will also act as a guide for
lowing steps need to be taken:
the training of carpet fitters. (See separate article in this feature.)
•
Register with CETA
• Decide what employee training would enable you to
82
Skills Development Levies Act
meet your strategies for growth, management and other
An extensive feature in the corresponding issue of FLOORS last year
succession planning, upliftment programmes, career
carried a full description of the Skills Development Levies Act of 1999,
development, skills needs, and so forth, and produce a
the Skills Development Levy, and the involvement in skills improve-
training plan for the year.
ment by the Construction Education & Training Authority (CETA). Many readers found this to be exceptionally useful, particularly as
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
• Compile and submit a Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) to CETA, and if you find this difficult there is a template on
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
CETA’s website and other assistance given so that you can prob-
Profession (SACAP) may determine conditions for the renewal
ably submit it online.
of registration.
CETA will then evaluate your plan and inform you at what level it
CPD refers to the following activities which should take
will comply for a levy rebate. The CETA training year runs from 1 April
place throughout a person’s architectural career: continuing
each year until 31 March the following year – so you are too late to
education and training; systematic maintenance, improve-
start in 2010, but the WSPs need to be submitted by 30 June – so
ment and broadening of knowledge and skills; and the devel-
don’t miss out on 2011!
opment of personal qualities necessary for the execution of
Each year your company will need to submit a WSP detailing the planned training for the forthcoming year, and an Annual Training Report detailing the training actually done in the past year. If you cannot register employees on a full learnership programme
professional and technical duties. The CPD system functions in five-year cycles. During this time registered persons must obtain 25 CPD credits in order to qualify for renewal of registration. The 25 credits must be
because of the time it may take, register them with CETA on a pro-
spread across the three different categories listed below.
gramme that will enable them to accumulate credits towards a SAQA-
Category One
registered qualification.
Development Activities, e.g. workshops, conferences
The CETA website provides the criteria and application forms in respect of learnerships. CETA’s primary objective is to influence the course of training and
Category Two Work-based Activities, e.g. architectural work, lecturing, mentoring
skills development in the construction sector. Various skills develop-
Category Three
ment projects and learnerships are initiated with a view to devel-
Individual activities, e.g. membership of recognised voluntary
oping a skilled and motivated construction workforce whose skills
associations, studies, publishing articles
are recognised and valued in terms of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
A minimum of three (3) credits across the categories must be earned per annum, and credits in excess of five (5) for the
The NQF system consists of eight different levels, allowing educa-
year may be carried forward to the following year. There is a
tion and training to take place within a formal structure that can be
maximum number of CPD credits which can be accumulated
monitored and controlled by Government.
per annum in each of the three categories.
NQF 1: General education and training (GET) levels – primary training
The recognised Voluntary Associations (VAs) and Accredited
and development up to Grade 8 and 9 and ABET 4.
Learning Sites (ALSs) have an important role to play in the
NQF 2 to 4: Further education and training (FET) level – secondary edu-
implementation of CPD in that they can offer Category 1
cation including certificates and qualifications up to Grade 12 or N5.
activities. VAs can also validate and monitor Category One
NQF 5 to 8: Higher education and training (HET) levels – higher edu-
activities offered by other providers.
cation such as university degrees, doctorates and further research. It should be noted that CETA does not offer training, but one of its objectives is to ensure that people who have acquired skills, but do
Any developmental activities offered by third parties without validation can only be claimed within Category Three. The recognised VAs are able to charge a fee for validating
not have the required qualifications, participate in the Recognition of
such activities and should encourage broader participation of
Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process.
the whole profession. VAs may offer a discount to their members as a further benefit.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Anyone wishing to know more about the CPD requirements
CPD is the means by which members of professional associations main-
and how to become a validated voluntary association should
tain, improve and broaden their knowledge and skills and develop the
visit the website www.scacapsa.com.
personal qualities required in their professional lives and, effective from 01 January 2007, CPD is compulsory for all architectural professionals. According to the Architectural Profession Act 2000 (Act 44 of 2000) section 22(2), the South African Council for the Architectural
Meanwhile, FLOORS is researching the possibility of how the flooring industry can contribute and assist the professionals with their CPD programmes, and will report on this in detail in a future issue.
83 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Academy
Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy is leading the way Belgotex Floorcoverings continually invests in the training and upliftment of the trade, with particular emphasis on performance enhancement, and over the past few years the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy has trained and enhanced the skills of scores of many people within the industry. he response during 2009 was again exceptional, and the
T
ensure that the right products are recommended for the dif-
courses that ensued very successful, so in 2010 Belgotex
ferent rooms in the home. Guarantees, warranties and the
Floorcoverings reiterates its commitment to the industry
standard claim policy are also discussed, and an explanatory
by running another comprehensive training programme
booklet given.
throughout this year. The courses cover Technical Sales (Carpets); Berry Floor/
The headings under this session are largely self-explanatory, but the professional explanation of how to handle each of
Theory & Sales; Carpet Installation; Berry Floor/Practical; and
these components of sales training brings a new meaning to
Measuring, Estimating & Costing; Speciality Products. A brief
the words, and equips any delegate to further his career.
description of the contents of each course follows. Berry Floor Training: Theory & Sales This session covers all the aspects and theoretical product knowledge (including the SABS Code of Practice) for the Berry laminate flooring range – discussing and explaining every-
Stainproof
Technical Sales (Carpets) The technical sales training given on these courses entails very comprehensive and detailed sessions that enable delegates to acquire a competent sales approach, covering such subjects as Telephone technique; The appointment; Knowing your product; Principles of store layout; Closing the deal; and, importantly, After the sale as well as covering SABS and all other technical aspects of carpets. Know your Product covers the manufacturing process in detail, and includes details of the finished product from fibres to cleaning, together with all the features and benefits to the homeowner of the different fibres, yarns and constructions. This section also covers the unique Belgotex Floorcoverings technologies that are available, including EcoWash, Orange, Stainproof, and more – and area gradings are explained to
84
Berry Floor
Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 033 897 7500 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Academy thing from the manufacturing process to what is required to provide a successful installation. This includes measuring, estimating, pricing, the correct procedures for the pre-installation preparation and the installation itself. The installation of under-laminate heating is also discussed in detail. Information is also provided on the South African Wood & Laminate Flooring Association (SAWLFA) and EPLF – the European Producers of Laminate Flooring. Berry Floor training: Practical Hands-on installation of the laminate floorcovering, together with the need for professionalism by the installer, the importance of pre-installation preparation, and the correct and safe use and maintenance of the installation tools. The measuring and laying out of the floors to achieve a perfect installation are also demonstrated.
IVC
Carpet Installation Training
Speciality Products
Here the need for professionalism is emphasised once again,
This course deals specifically with a wide range of products
and pre-installation preparation and the correct and safe use
– some of which have been recently introduced to South
of the installation tools, together with their correct mainte-
Africa by Belgotex Floorcoverings. This includes Duraturf
nance, is also covered.
recreational/artificial grass; Sportec rubber flooring; and the
Then the attendees get down to the practical hands-on
outstanding IVC vinyl flooring range – all of which have been
installation of patterned carpets in both stretch and stick-
enthusiastically received in the marketplace. Product descrip-
down applications. Needlepunch carpeting and carpet tiles
tions, preparation and laying techniques, and application suit-
are included, and floor preparation, planning, layout and
ability are amongst the items that will be discussed for each.
other ‘tricks of the trade’ that assist in providing a professional installation are demonstrated. Two other important areas are covered here: the installation
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
of carpet on stairs, and the installation of under-carpet heat-
environmentally aware manufacturers and suppliers in the
ing systems.
country.
Measuring, Estimating, Planning & Costing
Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy certificate and all the rele-
At the end of each course the delegates are provided with a vant brochures and literature covering the subjects discussed This workshop course provides an introduction that includes preparation and meeting customers, together with gathering
during the day. Anyone interested in obtaining further information – or
information – getting the facts and surveying the installation
making a booking to attend the Academy courses when next
– and includes practical exercises.
in your area – contact Allan de Wit at the numbers shown
Measuring – discussion on the equipment required, the
below.
techniques employed, and the measuring of rooms, hallways and stairs. The programme for 2010
and patterned carpets, and the correct seam positioning.
Please note that the dates and venues for the
Calculating – discusses infills, splits and borders. Measuring accessories – underlays, adhesives. Presenting the plan – sketching, scale-plan preparation and
Please note!
Estimating & Planning – covers the detail required for plain
2010 programme will be published in the next issue of FLOORS in Africa or contact your local Belgotex Floorcoverings branch.
quotations.
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 r c h 2 0 1 0
85
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
FloorworX has once again developed a comprehensive training programme for 2010, covering Quick-Step laminate flooring, Kährs natural wood floors, Bona flooring products – including sanding and sealing techniques, and the extensive range of FloorworX vinyl tiles and sheeting.
E
stablished flooring contractors are invited to send their staff to these courses at no charge, although prior booking is essential.
Courses are conducted by leading experts in their respective
fields, and have been developed in accordance with NQF learning modules. Proficiency certificates are issued at the end of each course.
2010 FloorworX training programme FLOORWORX VINYLS DATE
TYPE OF TRAINING
17 February (Wed) Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
TIME 09h00-15h30 each day
& Skirting
12 May (Wed)
Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
& Skirting
09h00-15h30 each day
18 August (Wed)
Floorprep, Vinyl Tiles
& Skirting
10-11 March
Sheeting & Floorprep, 09h00-15h30 each day
(Wed/Thurs)
Coving & Welding
09h00-15h30 each day
9-10 June
Sheeting & Floorprep, 09h00-15h30 each day
(Wed/Thurs)
Coving & Welding
15-16 Sept
Sheeting & Floorprep, 09h00-15h30 each day
(Wed/Thurs)
Coving & Welding
27 January (Wed)
Floorprep & Novilon
09h00-15h30 each day
20 October (Wed)
Floorprep & Novilon
09h00-15h30 each day
booking Should you wish to attend any of the above-mentioned
86
training sessions, please contact Teresa Martins on 011 406 4024 or e-mail at tmartins@floorworx.co.za.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : 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 KĂ„HRS REAL WOOD PRACTICAL 20 February (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
17 July (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
16 October (Sat)
Practical Training
08h30-12h00
QUICK-STEP PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE 21 April (Wed)
Product knowledge
10h00-14h00
14 July (Wed)
Product knowledge
10h00-14h00
SANDING & SEALING BONA FLOORING PRODUCTS SANDING & SEALING 2-3 March
Bona Products
(Tues, Wed)
Sanding & Sealing
09h00-16h00
booking Should you wish to attend any of the above-mentioned training sessions, please contact Maria Sanfona on 011 455 2970 or e-mail at maria@interiorwoodenfloors.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 the scheduled booking.
banking details Account Name:
FloorworX Africa (Pty) Ltd t/a FloorworX
Account Number: 4072727303 Bank:
ABSA
Branch Code:
632005
Reg no:
2004/009876/07
87 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Industry support needed for this bold initiative S
hortage of skills and inadequate standards of workmanship have reached almost critical levels in South Africa – and nowhere more
so than in the flooring industry – but the initiative recently launched by the South African carpet manufacturers represents a quantum
We know that this is just the beginning and much more work is required and would greatly appreciate the trade’s support for this initiative and look forward to their positive and constructive comments. Frank Moffat, Belgotex Carpets
leap in the right direction. For years attempts have been made by the carpet industry to address these issues, without success, but a recent initiative launched jointly by Belgotex Floorcoverings, Crossley Carpets, Nouwens Carpets and Van Dyck Carpets will go a long way towards alleviating the problems. Under the guidance of experienced facilitator Eric Goddard of
Many new learners join installation teams and lack written and illustrated instruction manuals to guide them, and the Installation Handbook will provide a first class teaching aid, with the purpose of making known to the trade the acceptable method of installation and the way to carry it out. Dave Williams, Crossley Carpets
Technical Training Services, this joint venture by the carpet manufacturers means that, for the first time, have combined their efforts and resources in the financing, compilation and production of a basic user-friendly Carpet Fitter’s Handbook, together with a Facilitator’s Guide for onward training. In the longer term this should result in the improvement of installation skills in the industry, as well as raising the consumer’s perception of the industry.
Over the years many attempts have been made to structure fitter training for our industry and as carpet manufacturers we identified a very logical starting point to get the ball rolling... We are proud to launch this very practical Fitter’s Training Handbook together with a Facilitator’s Guide as a standard training module and trust that it will be well accepted and widely used to the advantage of all! Luci Nouwens, Nouwens Carpets
The Carpet Fitter’s Handbook covers all aspects of carpet and carpet tile installation, with instructions that are easy to follow – ably assisted by the inclusion of numerous explanatory photographs. The chapters included in the Handbook cover the professionalism required of the textile floorcovering installer; full descriptions of carpet types and carpet-fitting tools; subfloor preparation; underlay types and adhesives; installation methods and systems; installation of
This Handbook will go a long way towards formalising the industry installation procedures, and in training according to agreed standards. Following the “Standard Claims Policy” produced by the manufacturers, the “Carpet Fitters Handbook” is another successful joint manufacturer project and a meaningful contribution to our industry. Bern de Smedt, Van Dyck Carpets
patterned carpets; carpet industry definitions; and problem solving. The Facilitator’s Guide will assist with comprehensive and uniform onward training in accordance with the Handbook, and there are
Who was the facilitator?
also support resources in the form of Coaching & Facilitating Carpet Fitters; theory assessment papers; assessment sheets; and an installa-
The facilitator for the recently launched Carpet Fitter’s
tion checklist.
Handbook and Facilitator’s Guide produced by the South
The carpet manufacturers will distribute the Handbook and Guide and will continue to initiate training, using this format for all their fit-
Goddard, founder and managing director of Technical
ter training programmes to provide some uniformity.
Training Services.
The question has been asked regarding whether these publications
Eric has considerable experience – starting in 1975 – both
will have official approval from CETA or SAQA, and the short answer
in industrial training and in the textile and carpet industries,
is that the Handbook has been prepared in such a way that it can
culminating in forming his own training consultancy in 1990.
eventually tie into various national training initiative requirements,
Together with his son Wayne this consultancy has over 50
and Eric Goddard was specifically approached for his experience in
years industrial training experience.
the carpet industry and his knowledge and daily involvement with various learnerships according to CETA standards.
Technical Training Services has worked under contract to the Textile Industry Training Board and now CTFL SETA since
Facilitator Eric Goddard says, “There is already a standard registered
their inception, and Eric also developed the study material
for this trade, and the programme will cover all the minimum require-
for the N1, N2 and N3 theory component of the apprentice
ments and more. The intention is to register this under the new leg-
development programme – and thus also set the National
islation QCTO (Qualification Council for Trades and Occupations), but
examinations for these subjects.
there is an initial problem with the fact that the trade falls under the
Amongst the services provided are management of the train-
Construction SETA, whereas the carpet manufacturers fall under the
ing function; new employee screening and selection (especially
Textile SETA.”
technical staff); conducting full learnership programmes in all
However, there is a consensus of opinion that the carpet industry
88
African carpet manufacturers under his guidance was Eric
SETA-registered Learnerships; development of detailed, com-
as a whole should take some initiative to establish standards and rec-
pany-specific training manuals; and much more.
ognition for fitter training in order to uplift both the industry and the
Technical Training Services
customer experience with regard to carpets.
Tel: 031 765 1778 E-mail: eric@ttservices.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
vately owned buildings, new construction and projects involving the renovation and reconstruction of old buildings. Participants included both retailers and parquet-layers, some of whom had had previous experience with Loba products. The seminar presented several products from Wakol as well as primers, waterborne finishes, oils, maintenance products and tools from Loba. All in all it was a very successful event, and the satisfied participants went home with valuable knowledge and experience. Loba has been a specialist in parquet and hardwood flooring since 1922, and is currently one of the leading manufacturers of floor finishing and floorcare systems for parquet, wood and cork
Going global
floors in Germany. In fact, it is the only company in its industry that concerns itself exclusively
Represented in South Africa solely by Zimbo’s Trading, LOBA – the German-based surface specialist for parquet and hardwood floors – is offering professional product training seminars under the motto “Pros learn from the pro”.
I
with these products. This long-standing, family-run company has become a technology leader in Europe owing to its strong specialisation and innovative strength. Flooring professionals in 50 countries
t takes a certain amount of know-how to
floorcare, and have a strong focus on practical
around the globe swear by the
achieve the optimal results possible with pro-
application. On average these seminars attract
environmentally friendly, water-
between 25 and 100 participants.
borne finishing systems from
fessional products, and every craftsman has his own areas of speciality. While some are familiar
“We have developed a clear training pro-
with a certain product or technique, others may
gramme structure made up of modules that build
be looking for a few tips or a little guidance.
on each other systematically. However, the con-
To help create a common basis of knowledge
Loba and the unrivalled quality standards. The extensive product range
cept is still flexible enough to be adapted to the
also includes floor oils and
among craftsmen in this area Loba has devel-
individual needs of the participants,” says Antonio
waxes, products for industrial
oped a systematic training programme for both
Riccio – Loba’s export manager.
use, and cleaning and mainte-
Germany and abroad. True to its motto “Service
“Our German customers also profit from the
nance products.
On Top!” these training events are adapted to the
exchange of experience between our application
specific needs of the respective audience.
engineers and parquet-layers around the world
about Loba, its products and
who use our products,” he says.
training programmes should
As Loba’s export business continues to grow so does the number of craftsmen seminars the
For example, the first of a series of 10 seminars
Anyone wishing to know more
contact Zimbo’s Trading at the
company is offering outside Germany. Every year
planned for Poland was held in Wrocław during
numbers shown below.
around 50 regional training events are organised
February. A total of 25 participants accepted the
Zimbo’s Trading
by Loba importers and branch offices around the
invitation from the Loba subsidiary LOBA-Wakol
Johannesburg: 011 794 1012
world.
Polska, which has been in operation in Warsaw
Fax: 086 556 4694
for roughly 10 years.
Cape Town: 021 511 4693
Through these seminars Loba is able to offer its regional customers special training designed
With the long-standing tradition of parquet-
in accordance with the needs of the respective
laying in Eastern Europe, Poland represents an
E-mail: info@loba.co.za
import market. These seminars are organised
especially interesting market with great growth
Websites: www.loba.co.za /
around a specific theme, such as renovation or
potential. This market includes public and pri-
www.zimbostrading.co.za
Fax: 021 511 4694
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
89
Fe a t u r e : Tr a i n i n g & S k i l l s d e v e l o p m e n t
Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting has introduced what is believed to be the first formal, registered training initiative for installers in the South African flooring industry.
Kevin Bates takes training to the floor
M
any manufacturers within the flooring industry have
Training Authority (CETA) as qualified installers of floor coverings, and
established training courses for their staff and cus-
receive their National Certificate in Construction: Installation of Floor
tomer employees. They provide certificates confirming
Coverings.
attendance and participation in the course, but they have no
comed by the Kevin Bates installation teams. “Many cannot wait to
nor do they provide an accredited qualification.
study for their own qualifications,” he adds.
Neil Duncan, managing director of Kevin Bates Flooring &
Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting, which last year celebrated its
Carpeting, says the company believes there is an urgent need to
40th anniversary, has since 1969 handled many prestigious contracts,
attract young, ambitious people to the industry. Furthermore we
including recent projects such as the flooring for the new SAA
need to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and experience from
International Departure lounges at OR Tambo International Airport,
long standing members of our industry to newcomers.
Phase 1 of the Liberty Life regional office at Umhlanga Ridge, Phase
“Consequently, we have embarked on this new training initia-
3a of Standard Bank offices in Constantia, the Discovery Health call
tive to ensure that Kevin Bates has suitably qualified installers to
centre in Durban, Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg, RMB offices
safeguard the company’s future sustainability,” Duncan states.
in Sandton, ABB Holdings premises in Longmeadow, Formula 1
Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting, introduced the training
Hotels nationwide, and King Shaka International Airport outside
scheme in April 2009, selecting four of the company’s most expe-
Durban.
rienced flooring fitters and installers, and four new recruits as its
Colin de Kock, executive director of the Gauteng Master Builders
initial student intake for the one-year training course. They have
Association, has welcomed the Kevin Bates training venture. “It rep-
subsequently registered a further twenty two learners to com-
resents another instance where a GMBA member has taken positive
mence training in 2010.
steps to combat the serious shortage of skills in the construction
The professional training company, Tjeka, has been engaged
industry,” he said.
to facilitate the training in terms of SA Qualifications Authority
Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting
(SAQA) guidelines.
Tel: 011 608 4270
Tjeka managing director, Frans Toua says, “Tjeka is accredited by both CETA and BBBEE as a competent training and examining body, and the training for Kevin Bates covers all types of floorcoverings to NQF level 1 and 2 under the terms of the agreed learnership contract entered into with each trainee. “The training covers aspects such as measurement, drawing interpretation, practical fitting, and health and safety issues, followed by on-site assessments and written examinations covering the practical aspects of installation.”
90
He says the new training initiative has been enthusiastically wel-
SAQA recognition, consequently they aren’t formally recognised
On successful completion of the learnership requirements, learners will be registered with the Construction Education
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Fax: 011 608 4278
Feature: Ex terior
exterior feature
By popular demand, FLOORS is introducing a new, regular section in the magazine devoted specifically to the various types of materials used in exterior applications.
91 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Ex terior
Must read article!
By popular demand, FLOORS is introducing a
different attributes all competing for their share in this market.
new, regular section in the magazine devoted
deck these days is its need for regular care and maintenance; in
specifically to the various types of materials used in
some cases sanding, staining and resealing is an annual chore,
exterior applications.
years before such treatments are necessary. Nevertheless, not
D
Often seen as the main deterrent to having a natural wood
although with some wood types it is possible to go two or three paying attention to the preservation of a wooden deck can
ecking, tiles, cobbles, paving, concrete, artificial grass – the list is
obviously lead to deterioration, rotting and the eventual failure
endless – and although we will not be running a full feature article
of the deck.
in each issue, you have carte blanche to have your say in this section and to keep the professionals in touch with your products and systems. Over the past few years there has been a considerable increase in
With the upsurge in interest of people and designers wanting to establish decks in their homes or the projects they are handling, many other decking materials have been introduced – all of
the popularity of decking for both residential and commercial appli-
which seem to be aimed at providing lower maintenance options
cations and, as a result, there has been a proliferation of available
for the end-users with what are claimed to be longer-lasting and
products and systems that all compete in this niche market sector.
often eco-friendlier systems.
There is no doubt that the provision of a deck in any application – in
Vinyl, aluminium, plastic and, more recently, bamboo decks are
your home, around hotel swimming pools or lounge areas, for safari
available alternatives to wood, but perhaps the biggest recent
lodges and entertainment areas, and many other leisure applications –
change to the industry has been the introduction of composite
instills an immediate feeling of relaxation and even outdoor opulence,
decking.
and certainly increases the aesthetic appeal and value of the property. Not so long ago the choice of decking material was simple. You could
92
Eva-last
Decking at its
This is typically made from a combination of different materials (wood and plastic mostly) processed to give the appearance of
have wood or wood! As a result the hardwood and engineered wood
wood. The wood used can be lumber industry by-products such
varieties of decking – together with some innovative finishes, treat-
as sawdust, chips and wood fibre, and this is mixed with either
ments and fixing systems – are still preferred by many people, but
virgin or recycled plastic, usually with a pigment and preservative
there are now numerous suppliers and modern systems with entirely
added. Those that use wood by-products and recycled plastic cer-
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Ex terior
tainly fall within the
The initial cost
realm of being green
of FRP decking is
products.
significantly higher than conventional alternatives,
extruded into board
despite its overall
lengths and cooled,
long-term value.
and the composite
With this system
decking material is
decks should be
then seen to be heavi-
designed so that
er than wood, but
full-width planks
more dimensionally
are used (planks
stable. WCP Materials
cannot be cut to
won’t warp or rot, it
narrower widths,
does not splinter, and
like wood, to fill in
there is no need for
small gaps), oth-
painting, staining or
RHOMS
MOSO
Normally this mixture is then heated,
erwise gaps will
sealing.
be left between
Kept swept, and with stains seen to straight away, all that is needed to keep it looking good is soap and water whenever necessary. Another new decking material recently added to the market is
planks. Earlier mention of bamboo decking is worth another brief visit. With unique treatment during the manufacturing procedure, strand-woven bamboo decking is decay-proof,
made of pultruded fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP). Pultrusion is a
moisture-resistant, and provides insect prevention and high
process in which continuous strands of fibreglass are pulled through
temperature resistance.
a bath of polyester resins to coat the fibres, and then through a die to give the desired profile. FRP decking materials are strong enough to be used as structural
And, of course, the source material is from carefully harvested plantations – but as it is a grass rather than a wood, bamboo is a rapidly growing material that reproduces further
beams in industrial applications that require resistance to chemical
growth after it has been cut – making it a very environmen-
attack and fire. The material is also highly scratch- and impact-resis-
tally friendly material.
tant and is coloured throughout, which allows it to retain its looks with only periodic washing. As with most decking systems, FRP decking is typically sold as an
This is but a simple overview of some of the better materials that are available for decking applications, but it pays to check the specifications and credentials of the manufacturer,
entire system, including deck boards, attachment clips, trim, and
supplier, and the installing contractor to ensure that you are
handrail material.
getting the best possible value for your money.
Established for over 55 years, FloorworX is also the only local importer of Bona water-borne finishes and dust free sanding machines. Bona’s water-borne finishes are a sound environmental choice for the coating of wooden floors. Setting quickly, the complete range of NMP-free finishes enable sanding to start sooner. Bona’s dust care system with HEPA filters remove 99.9% of the sanding dust in a room, thus giving contractors a healthier working environment and our customers a cleaner home.
k for
Sustainab
ili
The Flooring Solutions Company
c Tr a
ty
On
Keep your genuine wooden floor looking beautiful
www.floorworx.co.za Tel: 011 406-4290/4295
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
93
Feature: Ex terior
Unique composite As one of Africa’s leading innovators and suppliers of high quality wood plastic composite decking (WPC), Eva-Last’s core business is to supply contractors, decking installers and homeowners alike with unrivalled technical service and exceptionally high quality building materials.
The resilient composition of the material is maintenance-free and will not require treating, sanding, sealing or staining, saving vast amounts of money and time throughout the life of the deck. The material is composed of 60% reclaimed wood fibre and 40% recycled high density polyethylene, and thus is proud to carry the approved ‘green’ product emblem of the Green Building Council of South Africa. The complete deck has a flawless finish thanks to the unique hidden fastening system engineered in the boards, eradicating unsightly and dangerous screws from the surface of the deck and creating a barefoot friendly surface. Offered in an array of colours, dimensions, styles and finishes you are sure to find the perfect match for your terrace within the EvaTech Range. All Eva-Last products have undergone extensive research and development over many years and have been sourced from all over the globe. The materials used in the manufacturing of WPC decking are either
CorrectDeck By using tougher plastics in its composition and utilising a solid
by-products from various other industries such as papermaking or are
board, the CorrectDeck range is considered by many worldwide to
recycled, giving the entire product offering by Eva-Last an eco-friend-
be the most durable and long lasting decking board around.
ly and sustainable status, recognised by a number of institutions both locally and at a global level. Over the years, Eva-Last has gained unrivalled technical experience
Composed of 60% hardwood fibre and 40% polypropylene, the decking board does not require any periodic maintenance; furthermore the board has a built-in resistance to staining, fading, mould
in the installation and general behaviour of WPC materials when
and mildew. The CorrectDeck range is suitable for all applications
installed as decks and other common applications. As an industry
and environments and will withstand the harshest of climates.
leader in this regard Eva-Last is able to assist all clients (contractors,
The CorrectDeck range also utilises a unique hidden fastening
installers or DIY enthusiasts) with the installation, care and choice of
system – again eradicating unsightly and dangerous screws from
the appropriate board for the desired application.
its surface. The board has a hot-rolled embossed wood grain finish,
Furthermore, Eva-Last stocks and supplies all materials required to successfully construct a deck, from structural materials to the last screw, all of which have been proven to work and are specialised for
giving it a very natural look and feel, and is available in a variety of colours. Imagine having all the benefits of a timber deck without any of
every requirement. Take a look at the detailed information of two of
the hassles! Eva-Last now brings the beauty of the rainforests to
the WPC decking ranges below.
any home or corporate environment, but eradicates all the headaches of wood.
The Eva-Tech Range
94
Put your trust in Eva-Last, and enjoy your deck hassle-free for
The Eva-Tech Range of Wood Plastic Composite Decking holds a
years to come.
unique combination of strikingly attractive looks and lifelong durabil-
Eva-Last
ity, making it the perfect complement for any style of architecture in
Tel: 011 462 1221 Fax: 011 462 1240
any environment.
E-mail: cameron@eva-last.co.za Website: www.eva-last.co.za
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
• ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIENTIOUS • NO PRODUCT RECALL IN 20 YEARS! • MORE THAN 90% recycled materials used in manufacture • TOTAL WOOD FIBRE ENCAPSULATION for stability & moisture resistance • NATURAL COOLING ALLOWS STRESS FREE PRODUCTION PROCESS • WARRANTY – Limited Lifetime Transferable Warranty • CAN INSTAL WITH DIRECT GROUND CONTACT due to unique moisture resistance
Everyone’s favourite decking... Naturally, you prefer quality! Decking Solid Wood Engineered and Laminate Floors
floor & deck maintenance • complete wooden floor solutions • professional advice and designs
0861 TIMBER • 011 465 4150 www.rhomstimberworld.co.za
Feature: Ex terior
Moisture-resistant composite decking Marketed solely in South Africa by Rhoms Timberworld, MoistureShield Composite Decking is tough, good-looking, and finding favour in a wide variety of applications, in both engineered and solid profiles.
I
t is made from 90% recycled content (30% from post-consumer and 60% from pre-consumer materials) to produce an extremely
As a major importer and supplier of hardwood, laminate
environmentally friendly decking option which will not rot or decay,
floorcoverings, engineered, parquet and solid wood floors,
resists termite damage, is non-toxic, and does not require staining,
Rhoms Timberworld has been in the forefront of the industry for
painting or sealing – as well as being colourfast.
many years.
The AERT sales programme being marketed by Rhoms
98
lifetime transferable warranty, or with a 20-year warranty.
The company has a team of experts able to advise on the best
Timberworld includes two decking products: LifeCycle (2 colours)
materials for any specific project, and in particular will help
and MoistureShield (6 colours) – all board types come with a limited
architects, interior designers and contractors and end-users in
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Ex terior
selecting the correct deck board for any decking project
products that resist swelling, rot and termites – and are easier to maintain
– including assisting with the correct deck design for both
and longer lasting – due to a patented process known as total encapsula-
commercial and residential applications.
tion.
Having been manufacturing composite wood build-
This process means the products are manufactured under several unique
ing products for over 20 years, Advanced Environmental
patents where the wood fibres are aligned and encapsulated in plastic,
Recycling Technologies Inc (AERT) is a recognised pioneer
which surrounds and bonds to the wood fibres, making them moisture-
in the industry, having discovered an eco-friendly way to
resistant. This also means that MoistureShield can be installed with direct
create high-quality building components using reclaimed
ground contact, without voiding the warranty.
wood fibres and recycled plastics. Since then, AERT has further developed and patented its
The wood fibres reinforce the plastic, making it stiffer and greatly reducing its thermal movement. The decking planks are extruded and allowed to cool
proprietary waste plastics reclamation technologies which
slowly (not water-cooled), which means the boards will not twist or warp.
allows the company to recover waste plastics from the by-
Rhoms Timberworld
product of other recycling operations, as well as from pre-
Tel: 011 465 4150
and post-consumer was streams.
Fax: 011 465 3788
In 1992, AERT introduced its first composite decking
Website: www.rhomstimberworld.co.za
99 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Feature: Ex terior
architects and interior decorators, homeowners, commercial and industrial clients, who are offered an extensive range of exotic and hardwood flooring and decking, including the highly respected Colorado brand and a wide range of South American species. Bedson Timbers has regional offices and warehousing in Durban and is currently establishing a new showroom at its Pretoria premises and its own warehousing in Durban. This will enable the company to
A focus on Established in Pretoria 22 years ago by owner and CEO Oscar Bupo, Bedson Flooring
throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. With two wood-processing plants – strategically located in Argentina and South Africa
and Decor has enjoyed regular and substantial growth to become a leading
– Bedson supplies rough sawn
supplier of decking and flooring products both nationally and internationally.
products worldwide.
As a fully integrated, environmentally conscious company with a sound knowledge of forestry management and wood processes, Bedson Timbers aims to be the preferred supplier of exotic hardwoods and value-added timber products to the international timber and consumer markets – from the forest to the marketplace. The company is strategically focused on fulfilling a need in the international architecture, design, construction, and furniture manufacturing and consumer markets for exotic hardwoods as well as flooring and decking. As part of the Bedson Africa Business Group with offices in Mozambique, Kenya, Egypt, Argentina and Uruguay, it has four operating divisions – wholesale, retail, value-added timber and flooring, and a forestry division. Other companies within the group include natural and herbal health (Sonora Pharmaceuticals) and animal health.
100
provide an even better service
Its customer base includes installers, builders, contractors,
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
timber, decking and flooring In addition, Bedson’s company-owned forests in Uruguay provide flexibility and reliability by giving the company access to established strategic resources to consistently supply its target markets. This investment forms part of a 300-year-old sustainable project, and the planting is carried out in strict accordance with FSC principles to preserve the bio-diversity and to ensure sustainability. Its South African factory is fully equipped with planers, moulders, cross-cutting machines, re-sawing machines, and other modern plant, and it also has significant in-house drying capacity through its drying kilns where wet off-saw timber is taken down to the requisite moisture content (below 10%) – controlled by a computerised system that also accurately controls thickness and width dimensions. Bedson Flooring and Decor Tel: 012 803 4376 Fax: 012 803 1685 E-mail: sales@bedson.co.za Website: www.bedson.co.za
S LID WOOD FLOORING AND mARket stANDING
News
The best there is! As South Africa’s foremost specialists in the transportation of flooring materials with branches and depots in Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, and Cape Town, Transiton Transport are able to provide an unmatched flooring delivery service to the trade.
T
o find out what their customers think of the Transiton
service, FLOORS spoke to two of their most important customers – Keith Ruthenberg of Fotakis Brothers in the Cape, and Jim Johnson of Carpet Brokers, Johannesburg – to get their views.
102 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
News
Keith Ruthenberg
Jim Johnson
How has Transiton benefited your business?
How has Transiton benefited your business?
They are not the cheapest, but they are certainly the best and
Their reliability and countrywide network mean you can always
most reliable. The carpets always arrive in perfect condition.
depend on them.
Can you give an example where Transiton really delivered excep-
Can you give an example where Transiton really delivered exceptional
tional service?
service?
Not really. Their service has been consistently good over the
Nothing springs immediately to mind, and this is because, whatever
years.
they are asked to do, they seem to cope.
Would you say that they put customer satisfaction first and why?
Would you say that they put customer satisfaction first and why?
They have a lot of competition out there, but they are specialists
I have been dealing with Transiton for 20 years and they always go
in their field and do the job right.
out of their way to meet any requirement.
Do goods always arrive on time and in perfect condition?
Do goods always arrive on time and in perfect condition?
As a rule yes, their goods handling skills and equipment are the
Their network of branches and top-class fleet means they always
best.
deliver on time and the goods arrive in perfect condition.
Do they always meet their delivery promises?
Do they always meet their delivery promises?
We have had very few problems given the volumes involved.
Yes.
If they experience problems, do they keep you notified?
If they experience problems, do they keep you notified?
Yes, generally their communication is extremely good.
They keep us fully informed on the status of each delivery.
What would you say is their biggest contribution to your business?
What would you say is their biggest contribution to your business?
Nothing is too much trouble for them; they have even deliv-
Perhaps the main benefit of using Transiton is that they are dedicat-
ered fine Cape wines on time for the Johannesburg Christmas
ed to the carpet industry, so your delivery is not loaded onto a truck
party. I will certainly recommend them as a top class carpet
with cans of oil and all manner of other goods. I consider Transiton
transporter.
to be an asset to the industry.
This article is brought to you with the sponsorship of Transiton Transport – South Africa’s foremost specialists in the transportation
TRANSPORT
of flooring materials to the trade.
103 F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
News
Floors in Africa now
Kicking off on the wrong foot!
Media in Africa has just launched its brand-new website. This new site is a huge upgrade from the previous one and promises to give advertisers, readers, clients and anyone interested in industry specific information all that they would want on a site that is easy to navigate,
It has been brought to our attention that there were errors in the report on the floors installed by Albert Carpets at the
well structured and loaded with interesting facts and essentials. The magazines can now also be viewed online – making it quick
Cape Town Stadium (initially known as Green Point Stadium),
and easy for potential and existing advertisers and clients to see
in our last issue.
exactly what each individual magazine can offer.
Firstly, ‘the InterfaceFlor Furrows carpet’ was not fitted on
The new website features a section for each of their niche maga-
a 5mm rubber underlay, as InterfaceFlor Furrows is a carpet
zines: Floors in Africa, Walls & Roofs in Africa, The Great Flooring
tile which is not laid on an underlay. The carpet tiles were
Guide, 25º in Africa and INTIEM & Intimacy4us.
laid onto the screed with TacTile. With TacTiles you can
Each section gives detailed information on the following for every
create a durable installation of InterfaceFLOR Commercial
magazine: background information, the latest rates, dates and fea-
carpet tiles over your existing floor without permanent
tures lists, target market and readership, technical specifications,
adhesion. The TacTiles adhere tiles to one another, creating
feedback from clients and the magazine’s contact details.
a “floating floor” – making for easy installation, removal and replacement.
Furthermore, you can also subscribe to the magazines and e-newsletters and read about Media in Africa’s various local and international
Secondly, the strand-woven bamboo was laid on 3mm cork underlay from Amorim Cork over 150 micron plastic and not a rubber underlay as mentioned in the article.
Let niche marketing work for you today – visit www.mediainafrica. co.za. After all, niche marketing is where your focus should be!
Apologies to all concerned in the hope that no damage was done, and although not our fault, we accept the red card!
accolades.
For more information contact: Media in Africa: 012 347 7530 Hesca Joubert: hesca@mediainafrica.co.za
Introdu
cing Revo
The Flooring Solutions Company
lution
ary Flo
orcare . . .
Established for over 55 years, FloorworX is the only local manufacturer of semi-flexible tiles, fully flexible vinyl sheeting and tiles – all of which carry the SANS certification for quality.
104
FloorworX also distributes Quick-Step wood laminates, Kährs wooden floors and a comprehensive range of international resilient floorcoverings, including safety flooring, antistatic flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, static control tiles, linoleum, Novilon, rubber and sports flooring, together with a wide range of flooring adhesives, accessories and floorcare materials.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
www.floorworx.co.za National Call Centre 0860 346 679
News
New website is the place to be! FloorworX, the member of the Accéntuate Group that is South Africa’s only local manufacturer of semi-flexible tiles and fully flexible vinyl sheeting and tiles – all carrying the SANS certification for quality – has revamped its website www.floorworx. co.za to provide a modern, user-friendly and fully informative source for every product in its vast sales programme. This includes, apart from the locally manufactured products, international resilient floorcoverings such as safety flooring, antistatic flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, Quick-Step wood laminates, Kährs wooden floors, static control tiles, linoleum, Novilon, rubber and sports flooring. It also includes a wide range of flooring adhesives, accessories and floorcare that can also be acquired through FloorworX. The new website not only provides full product descriptions
MERVYN ROBERTSON
with an indication of its projected use in each case, but it also gives a technical specification for each, together with recom-
(23 August 1955 – 7 January 2010)
mended adhesives and maintenance instructions. A new sector provides details of the benefits of using FloorworX products in a wide variety of applications, including Health, Education, Retail, Housing/DIY, Leisure and Transport. Downloads are also available, including data sheets, technical bulletins and a floor layer guide. A must for anyone seeking information about FloorworX products, make a note of www.floorworx.co.za.
On the 7th January, we at Polyflor lost a colleague and friend. One of the lights of the company dimmed forever. Mervyn, in his own way, was a legend in the flooring industry. He had many years of experience and his knowledge was very well respected. His talent for relating to people in all the different sections of the industry was exceptional. In the five short years with us he made his presence felt in so many different ways. His huge sense of humour lightened
SACAP authorises CPD credits obtainable from Green Building Handbooks
many a gathering. He bore his illness bravely with fortitude and forbearance. His devoted wife, Hanlie, was ever at his side through this difficult time, and his close family were supportive and loving. Mervyn joined the flooring industry in 1979, after serving
A new partnership between the South African Council for the
his country in the army. He had a background in customer
Architectural Profession (SACAP) and media and events company
service and sales representation. He had been with Marley/
alive2green signals a new era for members of the architectural com-
Dunlop/FloorworX from 1979 to 2005, when he then joined
munity.
Polyflor.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits need to be
He had a strong passion for his work and his customers.
obtained by architectural professionals in order to remain registered
Mervyn also had a great love of animals. His three standard
with SACAP, a compulsory registration that allows these professionals
poodles were his pride and joy. He enjoyed nothing better
to practise in their field.
than going off into the bush, golfing with his friends and
Over a five-year cycle 25 credits need to be obtained with a mini-
riding his motorbike.
mum of three a year and one compulsory annual Category 1 credit. From February 2010, architectural professionals will be able to
He left us this message:
redeem valuable CPD Category 3 Credits from purchasing a copy of
“We all have dreams and plenty of goals, lots to do and
either Volume 1 or Volume 2 of the Green Building Handbook.
to achieve. Time flies by; do not hesitate to do the things
The Handbook chapters will be grouped together into learning
you love. Life is great, enjoy every minute, surround your-
modules which have been approved for accreditation by the South
self with people you love and that love you. Thank you for
African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
being part of my life, enjoy yours everyday to the extreme.
From April 2010 architectural professionals will be able to redeem Category 1 CPD credits from the same Modules in the Handbooks by writing and passing the online multiple choice tests which will be prepared for each chapter and available online at www.greenbuild-
Remember to consider others and ask God to show you the way. This is just a snippet to remember me by.” Mervyn Thank you, Mervyn, we will miss you but you will never be forgotten.
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ing.co.za.
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Q&A
News
It’s all about the stone
Can I clean my laminate floor with vinegar?
Both decorative epoxy screeds and industrial epoxy screeds,
All that is needed to keep a laminate floor clean is regular
if using the same type of aggregate with the same measure
sweeping or vacuuming (or both), and an occasional rub
of hardness can have the same strength against impact resis-
over with a clean, damp mop – but never use a wet mop or
tance, scratch resistance, and general wear and tear.
lots of water when cleaning. Don’t ever use soap, detergent, or cleaners with wax either, because they will leave a film that makes the floor dull, and laminate floors must never be waxed, polished, sanded or refinished. If you wish, you can mix one cup of vinegar or ½ cup of
The source and method of obtaining the grain/aggregate is of vital importance to the strength of the stone and the ultimate strength of the total system. The best aggregate to use is natural alluvial stone that is obtained from river beds. This stone must contain no less than 99% SiO2, be washed and fire-dried and have a
ammonia in five litres of water. Not normally necessary, but
residual moisture of less than 0,2%. It should also be 100%
it’s your call!
contaminant- and dust-free. There are South African companies that sell crushed stone
What should I avoid using when cleaning a marble
aggregate. These stone aggregates have hundreds of cracks
floor?
and fissures in them as a result of the crushing process.
Detergents containing lemon, vinegar or acids should not
These stones when subjected to impact or abrasion can
be used on marble or other calcareous floors; scouring
shatter and the flooring system can fail. Bags of this stone
powders and creams should also be avoided as they con-
can be filled with dust and contamination which will alter
tain abrasives that may scratch the stone.
the colour and binding ability of the floor.
Apart from regular sweeping, the best way to clean any natural stone floor is by using a clean mop, a mild liquid detergent and clean, warm water – but the floor surface should be rinsed thoroughly after washing. The water should be changed regularly when the floor is being washed to ensure that dirt is not mopped back onto the floor. Care should also be taken to ensure that not too
Therefore always ensure that the stone used is natural, alluvial and uncrushed. Coloured natural alluvial quartz aggregate has a hardness score on the Mohs (measure of hardness) scale of about 8 with a diamond being 10, whereas crushed stone may not even register a reading because it is so weak. Heavy-duty epoxy screeds are used very successfully in
much soap or detergent is used as this may leave a film and
factories where floors are subject to high-impact wear:
cause streaks on the floor.
forklift traffic and gouging; abrasion and chemical attack.
Finally, if you are having problems with moss and algae
Decorative epoxy screeds, using coloured quartz are not as
on outdoor natural stone surfaces, a water and mild bleach
resilient to high-impact wear and abrasion, but are resistant
solution should do the trick.
to chemical attack.
We need a new floor for a workshop which will be sub-
any movement in the underlying screed. Old and damaged
jected to oil spills and will have to resist mechanical
concrete floors if prepared by a knowledgeable flooring con-
impact and abrasion from pallet trucks. What do you
tractor can be successfully resurfaced in an epoxy screed.
Larger areas may require movement joints, should there be
recommend? Also, we previously had a problem with
It is important that coloured quartz is polyurethane-coated
surface laitance and contaminants when preparing a
and not epoxy-coated, as the epoxy-coated stone will yel-
surface. What do we do to overcome this?
low over time, which is hugely accelerated by exposure to
The normal recommendation would be a 5mm epoxy
the sun. Also, screeds that are applied
resin screed, which will have a sealed surface so it will not
externally must be applied using a poly-
absorb spills, but is also textured so that it has good slip
urethane binding system, otherwise they
resistance. Also, the hardwearing properties and impact
will begin to yellow and chalk from day
and abrasion resistance of an epoxy floor are some of
one and ultimately fail.
the main reasons why they are so popular in this type of application. Regarding your second question, encapsulated shot blasting with vacuum dust recovery or grinding will provide the
Jeremy Stewart Flooring specialist and owner of Quartz Carpet
answer. However, in both instances, take the expert advice of a reputable supplier or contractor; subsequent rectifica-
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tion can be a costly business!
F LO O R S M a r c h 2 0 1 0
Jeremy Stewart Screed, Resin, and Concrete Expert CEO – Quartz Carpet, SA
News
Lino Patent Did you know that linoleum was patented in 1863 by
Following the success of Interbuild Qingdao 2009, the 5th China
Frederick Walton
International Construction & Decoration Materials Exposition
of London?
held during October at the Qingdao International Exhibition
Also, you might be interested to
Centre, the sixth version of this event will take place from 17 to
know that Hugh Grant’s father was a
19 July 2010 at the same venue.
carpet salesman.
Fifty thousand visitors representing more than 600 firms from North America, Europe and Asia came to see over 500 exhibitors from China and abroad participating in the 2009 exhibition, where the major display categories included flooring, doors, windows, and kitchen/bath along with their related support industries. For information on visiting or exhibiting at the 2010 China International Construction & Decoration Materials Exposition at the Qingdao International Exhibition Centre, contact US/North American Agent Dave Spreen by e-mail at:
Dave Spreen, our US flooring correspondent, reports that Floor
dspreen@humboldt1.com.
Covering Soft has launched the FloorEstimate Pro 2010 edition – the next generation flooring layout and estimating program for commercial and retail flooring contractors and dealers. FloorEstimate Pro 2010 stands out from competing products due to its versatility as a web-based enterprise estimating application that can be collaboratively worked on, edited, and updated from any location, allowing everyone involved to share and be notified of the most current information. Anyone wishing to know more should contact Dr. Steven Wang at Floor Covering Soft, Tel. +626 683-9188 or visit the website: http:// www.FloorCoveringSoft.com.
Decorex Cape Town 2010
Do you need . . .
Now in its 12th year, Decorex Cape Town 2010 brings a breath of
A new brochure? Copywriting? A full service is available from
fresh air to the world of interiors: aired in softness and beauty and
design to final print from Jacquerie.
energised for a new start, which includes Conversations on architecture, DIY Décor and the Plascon 2010 Colour Palette. Also worth visiting are those displays entitled Finest in finishes;
We also undertake research and copywriting for press releases, articles or sales leaflets. Whatever your needs, contact us for full details and rates.
Cutting edge kitchens & bathrooms; The Pick ‘n Pay Living green pavilion; Alluring room settings; and the South African Handmade Collection.
Dave Soons, Jacquerie Marketing cc
Decorex Cape Town runs from 23 to 26 April 2010 at the CTICC.
Tel: 012 807 7012; e-mail: dsoons@mweb.co.za
For more information visit the website www.decorex.co.za.
Fax to e-mail: 086 601 7842
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News
Views and opinions from speakers at contractworld.congress held in conjunction with Domotex Hannover 2010 earlier this year.
These architects and designers were specifically involved in shop design. The aesthetics of commerce We see design not as a better way of decking out rooms but as the art of holistic design. This may have something to do with the Italian word ‘disegno’ which, historically, was used for painting, sculpture and architecture together. We do not like being referred to as interior designers because there is no such thing as interior and exterior space. In our projects we therefore work more and more frequently as the solely responsible architect for all aspects of the space in question.
Milena Mussi Iosa Ghini Associati SBL, Bologna, Italy
Shop spiral In our Gyre mini-mall in Tokyo we wanted to combine the iconic quality of the flagship stores on Omotesando, the luxury shopping El Dorado, with the performance capability of a shop-in-shop concept. In order to accommodate our mall on the narrow piece of land that was available, we decided on a spiral as the principle of access. Because, unlike a flagship store, a department store is always a kind of public space, we equipped the building with exterior staircases and terraces that remain accessible even after the shops have shut. We see the building not as a diamond in the city, but as a converted and programmed component of public space.
Jakob van Rijs MVRDV, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Within – without In European cities, small-scale shops play a vital role in that they animate urban space. Contemporary shopping concepts, however, cannot be made to fit into their environment so easily due to the large scale of their architecture. We respond to this challenge with different strategies. In our Cité des Tendances we accommodate a shopping mall in unused spaces below the pedestrian esplanade of the La Défense office district. We vertically combine large retail complexes in the city centre with offices and apartments on the roof as in our ‘Life in town’ project in Paris in order to ensure the wide variety of functions that makes a city a city in a small space.
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Manuelle Gautrand Manuelle Gautrand Architecture, Paris, France
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