FLOORS in Africa

VOL 29.7 October/November 2011 R38 incl. VAT

Successful projects • What’s underneath • Outside the building Tools & accessories • Contemporary renovations • Corporate flooring insight

REFERENCE Guide

COVER STORY

Access Flooring Bates Access Flooring Peter Bates Flooring

New Dress Code for Flooring VAN DYCK has launched an exciting new needlepunch product called BARCODE. This linear, stylish and contemporary-looking carpet will most definitely prove to be very popular with the specifiers and is suitable for any kind of commercial application. It is available in broadloom and tiles (plainback and looselay), and comes in 8 very attractive colours for flexibility in installation and design. Barcode will most definitely be the new dress code for flooring in no time.

39

51

V OLUME 29.7

Adhesives / Coatings Contract Flooring Distributors FloorworX TAL Zimbo’s Trading

65

•

p59 p13, p19, p101

OC T/NO V

79

•

2011

Carpets Belgotex Floorcoverings FloorworX Nexus (Belgotex Floorcoverings) Nouwens Carpets Peter Bates Flooring Van Dyck

p55 p54 p57 p5

p2, p35 p44 - 45 p2 Inside Front Cover p13, p19, p101 Front Cover, p6, p14 - 15

Ceramic, Porcelain and Stone Falcon Tiling Products Kenzan Quality Tiles Tiletoria

p85 p9 p49

Cleaning & Maintenance FloorworX MilliCare

p73 p7

To page 5

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

3

REFERENCE Guide continued from page 3 Exterior Flooring & Paving Bedson Flooring & Décor p77 Belgotex Floorcoverings p2, p69 Flowcrete SA p4 Lafarge SA p33, p75 Tuff Floors p74 Van Dyck Front Cover, p6, p14 - 15 Industrial, Resin & Concrete Flooring Flowcrete SA Lafarge SA Mapei Pharaoh Cement Sika Verni

p4 p33, p75 p61 p58 p48 p31

Resilient Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings Peter Bates Flooring Polyflor SA Tuff Floors

p2, p27 p13, p19, p101 p25 p74

Seamless Flooring Quartz Carpet

p3

Note: Editorials excluded, listed in alphabetical order

Sports Flooring Belgotex Floorcoverings Matco Marketing Van Dyck

p2, p69 p29 Front Cover, p6, p14 - 15

Training & Skills Development Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy Underfloor heating Speedheat

p90 - 91

p63

Wood, Laminates & Bamboo Barrow Flooring Bedson Flooring & Décor Peter Bates Flooring Rhoms Timberworld Suntups Solid Wooden Flooring

Back Cover p77 p13, p19, p101 p36 - 37 p34

Accessories and other Domotex Falcon Tiling Products Genesis Kirk Marketing Pretoria Institute for Architecture Transiton Transport (Transportation) Kirk Marketing Pretoria Institute for Architecture The Office Plant Transiton Transport (Transportation)

p50 p85 p83 p21 p97 p94 - 95 p25 p91 p93 p86 - 87

Wood specifying

at its best!

Cape Town +27 21 511-4693 | Johannesburg +27 11 466 3586 | DURBAN +27 31 3037964 MEMBER

info@zimbostrading.co.za | www.zimbostrading.co.za “TM”

S.A. WOOD & LAMINATE FLOORING ASSOCIATION

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

5

EDITORIAL Perspective

Liezel van der Merwe

Roxanne Mancini

Having just returned from Italy with a preview of the world of ceramics, it’s evident to us that the theme of the moment in flooring is metamorphosis! The CERSAIE event showcased many trends that we can expect here in South Africa but the one single thing worth highlighting is that there are more options available to buyers now more than ever. If you can imagine it, someone can give it to you as a floor option! Look out for our next issue in which an in-depth report-back will be featured.

As far as this issue is concerned we hand over enlightening articles to you including revamp projects, insights into buildings and last but not least our annual feature focuses.

Successful Projects: Which projects have surpassed everyone’s expectations and which flooring products and applications are creating a buzz in the industry? We showcase some of the game changers that have everybody talking. See page 39.

Below the Surface: Each floor laid to the ground begins with the subfloor and the systems associated with it and the results the floor is expected to deliver on. This will all affect the prevention of a failed floor. Where does one start?

This feature focuses on some of the key issues involved in floor preparation and the products that designers and architects need to ensure the durability of floors. We will look at floor slabs, screeds, underlays, access floors, cable management, heating and airconditioning, and any other hidden benefits – all in one feature.

Exterior Flooring & Paving: This popular annual feature will cover everything from traditional paving solutions to new systems for decking, office parks, residences and industrial applications. We will also be looking at products that look like rocks and stone. See page 65.

Flooring Equipment: This issue is dedicated to the essential tools and accessories for the flooring market. We will be talking to manufacturers as well as developers and design professionals to find out what types of equipment are used, what works and what doesn’t work in this booming industry. See page79.

Our 2012 schedule will also soon be made available for your 2012 specification planning, where you can look forward to a year full of editorial delight and many new exciting products and services. Growth and innovation seems to be the order of the day for many people. We should be doing better and better with the economic pressures hopefully abating in 2012, which should bring with it relief for the flooring market. We look forward to hosting and reporting on the events as they unfold.

Please feel free to make contact with us with any flooring requirements you may have.

We look forward to serving the market.

Liezel van der Merwe

Roxanne Mancini

EDITOR

BUSINESS UNIT MANAGER

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: Fanie Venter Features & News Editor: Dave Soons Tel 012 807 7012 Business Unit Manager: Roxanne Mancini Cell 082 779 5751 Business Unit Co-ordinator: Madelein Smith Advertising Account Manager: Adéle Korff Cell 082 385 2928 Client Support: Joanna Papastamopoulos Cell 072 300 0867 Design and Layout: Jakolien Strydom Financial Manager: Gerda Bezuidenhout Proofreader: Signa Evans Debtors and reception: Karin Roos Reception assistant: Lizzy Mathibela REPRO & PRINTING: Business Print Centre

Caring for your People.

MilliCare together with your HVAC System removes 99% of mold, dust mites and bacteria creating a healthy working environment.

For over 30 years MilliCare has been extending the life of carpet and textile and ensuring carpet appearance retention throughout the life cycle which means best return on investment.

Just what you need, a clean healthy ThinkSpace, WorkSpace, GoodSpace

Clean Working Clean Living www.millicare.co.za

Ceramics, Porcelain & Stone

LEONARDO CERAMICA

Our final issue this year heralds 2012, which we hope will be a very successful year for all our readers. Look out for these features:

We will take a look at what types of international and local ceramic, porcelain and stone products caught everyone’s attention in 2011. This issue will give a complete guide to durable, economical and aesthetically appealing products for architects and designers. Also, look out for the latest trends from CERSAIE 2011, and details of the award present-

Access Flooring & Cable Management

BATES ACCESS FLOORING

ed to our sister magazine, WALLS & ROOFS in Africa.

Access Flooring, together with Cable Management, keeps its prestigious place as a ‘must have’ for any businesses and enterprises that look at flexible systems for offices, commercial developments and residential applications – as well as what can be done in refurbishment and upgrade projects. There are many types and systems available for consideration, which will as always feature in our annual feature.

Made in SA

Specify and buy South African is the order of the day here. Proudly South African projects and products that boost our economy, uplift the nation and help the flooring industry to grow. Know the difference. We find out about new products that have been launched and which flooring projects can receive the industry leader’s stamp of approval.

Renovations Replacing old systems can become a mammoth task if you don’t have the correct products, techniques and application methods. How do you make a floor new? Things to consider when replacing a floor and installation insights to have when doing it will be covered here. We find out what architects, developers and designers need to know about getting rid of the old and installing new floors, especially considering the many flooring options available. Are there any preferred renovation flooring products? We will find out.

Roxanne Mancini: roxanne@mediainafrica.co.za 8

F LO O R S O c t N +27 o v 2 0 112 1 Tel:

347 7530

Adéle Korff: adele@mediainafrica.co.za

www.mediainafrica.co.za

Fax: +27 12 347 7523

Innovation & Design

REFURBISHMENT

Killarney mall

“Flooring and the way that it is installed, forms a large part of the

time. The flooring needed to be hardwear-

overall look and feel of a shopping centre,” retail architect, Tom Cox

the materials for the cinemas were all new.

ing and practical with some texture and

from CDG Architects said. “Shopping Malls in a competitive environ-

However, the floorcoverings to the other

ment generally need some form of refurbishment every 5 to 7 years,

existing colour palate. The end result is per-

and Killarney Mall has gone through many refurbishments.”

parts of the mall were sourced to match the fect,” says Cox. Kenzan supplied 600mm x 600mm full bodied porcelain tiles from Italy, which are hardwearing and easy to clean. Shopping centre tile procurement has become a large focus for Kenzan Tiles, which is able to deliver large volumes, on schedule, to anywhere within South Africa and into many parts of Africa.

Kenzan product offering varies in price depending on where the products are procured internationally, but Kenzan is proud to be able to supply affordable quality tiles, as well as the more pricy, highly stylish tiles.

The new Cine Centre is a crowd puller; it is the first full 3D movie complex in South Africa with surround sound, and can screen 3D movies in any of its five cinemas. It also incorporates the new Cine Premiere with “lounge” type seating giving greater comfort for a richer experience.

“We are thrilled with the outcome,” says Gordon Bell, from Killarney’s management company City Property Pty (Ltd). “There has been a significant increase in our foot count since the alterations were completed, and retail vacancies are now below 1, 5% from previously double digits.”

“The office towers at Killarney Mall also

The refurbishment has extended the life of the Mall . . .

“H

underwent a recent renovation, and now have modern and stylish offices which are near the Post Office and all the major banks,” Bell said.

“This office block is also virtually 100%

owever, they had a vacancy which

Basket; and steak from the Jozi Grill have

occupied, and we believe that this is because

was left by Nu Metro, and this

joined the already established collection

Killarney Mall has once again become a high-

created an opportunity to revitalise and

of food offerings (Mugg and Bean; Europa;

ly desirable community shopping mall, often

freshen up. The refurbishment has extended

Kauai; Seattle Coffee Company; Juicy Lucy;

frequented by the Johannesburg elite and

the life of the Mall with full evening trade

Spice of India, and Wimpy) at the mall.

well known personalities,” he concluded.

extending the centre’s daily use until about

Projects of this sort generally follow a tight

For more information: 041 373 6456 /

23h00 by creating a lively entertainment

work plan and product delivery schedule.

021 510 8310 / 011 467 8533 /

space that incorporates several new eating

The quantum of the work increased at differ-

www.kenzan.co.za

venues,” he said.

ent times by the client, which further chal-

The four new eating venues included Indian food from Mumbai Cafe; Italian from Del Forno Cucina; seafood from the Ocean

lenged the delivery schedule.

“We chose Kenzan tiles because they had the exact tile we were looking for, at the

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

9

Innovation & Design

CONTEMPORARY PLACE In less than a year a Protestant church together with a sanctuary, a church hall and supplementary spaces was built in the centre of the Lower Austrian town of Hainburg, on the site of a predecessor church that ceased to exist in the 17th Century.

T

he shape of the building is derived from that of a huge ‘table’ with its entire roof

construction resting on the legs – four steel columns. Another key element is the ceiling of the prayer room; its design language has been developed from the shape of the curved roof of a neighbouring Romanesque ossuary – the geometry of this century-old building is translated into a form, in line with the times, via today’s digital instruments.

The play with light and transparency has a special place in this project and the correla-

The sculptural bell tower weighing 8 tonnes

tion of the number three plays a continuous part in this glossy religious scheme, a feature that the design studio refers to as ‘deliberate coincidence’. The interior volumes are starkly lit by natural daylight which filters in through three large winding openings in the roof, correlating with the concept of The Trinity in Christian theology.

Around 300m² of bamboo flooring was used throughout this building.

The church took three years to complete, and the interior itself is not only a place of mysticism and quietude – as an antithesis of our rather fast and media-dominated times – but also an open space for the community.

The interior spaces can also be divided into three sections: the sanctuary; the church hall; and supporting facilities. The open yet peaceful sanctuary leads through to a glass-covered children’s corner and baptistry, beyond which is situated the communal

10

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Innovation & Design

OF WORSHIP

Replaces 17th Century church

The play with light has a special place in this project church hall. A set of folding doors sepa-

technologies and skills of a shipyard on

rates the two areas that can be drawn

the Baltic Sea, explaining, “The reference

back to merge the volumes, creating a

to shipbuilding is at the same time also

continuous spatial sequence. Around

reminiscent of Le Corbusier who served as

300m² of bamboo flooring was used

an important role model, not least because

throughout this building.

of his La Tourette monastery.”

A similar approach has been used on

Coop Himmelb(l)au, which was founded

the façade, which can be folded back to

by Wolf D Prix, Helmut Swiczinsky and

open the internal space to the outside.

Michael Holzer in 1968, is a cooperative

At right angles to this is a longitudinal

architectural design firm primarily locat-

slab building along a small side alley,

ed in Vienna, Austria, and which now also

supporting the sacristy, the pastor’s

maintains offices in Los Angeles, United

office, a small kitchen and additional

States, and Guadalajara, Mexico.

ancillary spaces.

Rising above this metallic complex is

In German, ‘coop’ has a similar meaning to the English cooperative; ‘himmel’

a sculptural bell tower. Weighing eight

means sky or heaven in German and ‘blau’

tonnes, the musical pillar soars to 20m

means blue, while ‘bau’ means building.

in height and makes the church highly

So, the name Himmelb(l)au can be inter-

recognisable from a great distance.

preted as Blue Heaven Cooperative or Sky

In assembling the building Coop Himmelb(l)au utilised the appropriate

Building Cooperative.

World Architecture News

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

11

Innovation & Design

RENOVATION

Livingstone Hospital

Extensive control of volume via ceiling bulkheads and the use of colour on the vinyl floor to separate clinical treatment areas from circulation helps define function and hierarchy in the different components of the building

12

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Innovation & Design

Following a master plan for

ties. Ambulances required direct access to

Livingstone Hospital drawn up

gang-related violence experienced in the

in 2008 as part of the proposal to rationalise medical services in

the accident area and, due to previous old Casualty, security was of paramount importance.

Consequently the whole facility is access

the Nelson Mandela Metropole,

controlled and there are over 100 surveil-

a new Accident & Emergency

lance security cameras linked to the CCTV

Unit was proposed to replace the

sis, the doors leading from the public wait-

existing Casualty at Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth.

control room. In the event of a security criing area into the clinical areas can be locked down to prevent unwanted ingress.

Additional requirements were for a new

A

s a host city for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, Port Elizabeth had writ-

ten into its hosting agreement that a new Accident & Emergency Unit had to be provided, as the existing unit was not up to an acceptable standard.

Consequently, the consultant team for the master plan, Brinkman Ndayi McAll cc – a multi-disciplinary Built Environment Consultancy that is recognised as specialist in the design of healthcare facilities – was appointed for the design and construction of the new unit.

The new A&E unit has a total floor area of approximately 12 000 m² and, as part of the new unit, a new Central Utility Building and a 2-bed Infectious Diseases Isolation unit were also constructed.

As a precursor to this unit, a R60-million temporary works and demolitions contract was signed to provide temporary accommodation and services in order to demolish the unused Maternity Unit and clear the site for the new facility. Also, the kitchen’s leaking roof was replaced, part of the cooking area overhauled and the ablutions in the Main Ward block renovated.

The Provincial Department of Roads & Public Works, on behalf of the Provincial Department of Health, provided the client brief, which was for a new Accident & Emergency facility catering for accident patients, walk-in casualty patients and medical emergency patients.

Two trauma theatres were required and supporting diagnostic digital X-Ray facili-

mortuary and the later addition of Trauma

ent components of the building,” he said.

In order to create freedom to design a dedi-

Wards, a new ICU and new High-Care facility

cated facility it was decided to demolish the

to be catered for .

under-utilised old Maternity wing and relocate

The building needed to complement the

the Korsten Clinic from the south-east corner

existing hospital, whilst creating a public

of the site. This would enable the eastern flank

image that uplifted the facility from the

of the hospital site to be used for the new

typical public perceptions of the hospital

A&E unit, but required significant decanting of

that abounded at the time.

buildings, departments and services under the

To that end, finishes and specifications needed to be robust from a durability and maintenance perspective, but the design

Temporary Works & Demolitions contract in order to prepare the site.

Meanwhile, the hospital had to remain a

team also strove for strong aesthetic appeal

fully functional facility with minimum dis-

in order to break down the stereotype

ruption to services, staff and patients. This

associated with state medical facilities and

entailed a rework of the master plan proposal

to humanise the experience as much as

so that the work could be tailored to fit the

possible.

available time.

Commenting on this project, Bryan

Environment

Brinkman said, “We relied heavily on

The brief given to the consultant team by the

Polyflor’s ability to offer both hygienic and

Department of Health was that contemporary

practical solutions that have a major impact

and future trends in the functioning of hos-

on the ‘feel’ of a hospital. When it is part of a

pitals and its inherent technology were to be

complete design concept, the correct floor

considered.

can even aid the healing process. However,

Careful orientation and choice of glazing

there are also the very important hygiene

materials and shading devices limit solar gain,

and safety aspects that need to be taken

while flooding the main public foyer with

into consideration that are vitally impor-

natural light. Artificial lighting is virtually all

tant in achieving a positive contribution to

controlled by movement sensors and switches

patient care.”

off after a determined period of time without

“Polyflor became a vital partner in this process with their broad palette of contemporary colours and stone and wood ranges

movement in order to reduce wasteful electrical consumption.

Water is pre-heated using solar panels prior

which helped us to reduce the clinical feel

to being heated to the desired temperature.

of parts of the building. Extensive control of

The floorcoverings used have a BRE ‘A+’ Rating

volume via ceiling bulkheads and the use

and are LEED-certified; they contain 25% recy-

of colour on the vinyl floor to separate clini-

cled product and are 100% recyclable at end

cal treatment areas from circulation helps

of life. PUR coatings allow for reduced mainte-

define function and hierarchy in the differ-

nance thus saving on water and chemicals.

Empowered

0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za

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13

Innovation & Design

Innovation & Design

Products & Ser vices

TO USE

The right tools

With more than 50 years’ experience in the local and international flooring industry, Denver Coleman, Chairman of Polyflor SA, answers questions posed by installers, architects and readers on their flooring challenges.* In this issue, he discusses tools that any committed flooring installer needs and wants to have in his tool box.

“I

have often heard it said that a workman is only as good as his tools. I want to make sure that I stay at the top of my game by ensuring I have the right tools for the job. Could you offer some advice on what is absolutely vital for installing vinyl sheet flooring, and which tools are worth their investment?

Johan Badenhorst (installer), Pretoria East.

Apart from site, screed and working

also very important to keep the tools in good condition and regularly maintain

essential requirement to ensure a suc-

advanced-quality equipment on the

them, by sharpening, where required;

cessful and quality installation of sheet

market that helps to make your job as a

replacing when necessary.

flooring. Regrettably, however, many of

professional installer easier and ensures

the installing teams operating today are

a top-class installation. Examples are

replaced with each drum of adhesives.

pressed for price to secure work via the

the Mozart Hand Trimmer which has a

They should not be re-grooved by hand

respective contractors. As a result, they

built-in slide and the new Mozart Speed

– only by a professional company. Knife

are often unable to afford the right tools

Trimmer which has recently been intro-

blades should be regularly changed and

or to replace broken tools.

duced to South Africa and uses the same

costed into your quote.

A basic set of tools should at the very least consist of a tape measure and car-

blade and spacer as the hand model.

The Mozart Speed Trimmer is fast and

Trowel blades, for instance, should be

It is a well-known fact that “the workman is only as good as his tools”. All

penter’s pencils, a rollable steel straight

easy to use and ensures neat welding

these tools are available from local sup-

edge which is often useful, as is a steel

trims. It is an upright, handheld model

pliers as well as well-known internation-

builder’s square. You should also have a

that creates a smooth finish by remov-

al suppliers who continue to develop

chalk line, a good-quality Stanley-type

ing excess welding rod at an even pace

innovative and new floor fitting tools.

knife (the new Dolphin type is comfort-

without the effort of moving around on

It is important to take good care of

able to use) with both straight and hook

your hands and knees. This product has

your tools and do a quality installation.

blades. Make sure you have an adhesive

already proven itself to be a firm favou-

Your good reputation will ensure that

trowel with replacement blades, a maxi-

rite with professional flooring installers!

you always have work, are in demand

trowel for screeding, a hand roller and

I would also highly recommend a

and can ask for a better fee – if there are no long snag lists.

heavy 68kg roller as well as a broom and

Power Groover which gives excellent

good-quality vacuum cleaner (wet and

grooving of joins for welding when set

dry can be useful).

and used correctly, and an automatic

ing to design, installation, problems

welder which is very beneficial when

or commentary you wish to share with

installing large welded sheets.

Denver, please e-mail him at info@poly-

Over and above this, the following specialist tools are also required and recom-

If you have any flooring question relat-

All of these tools add real value and

flor.co.za with ASK DENVER in the subject

in a sheeting edge trimmer in order to

will assist the installing team in achiev-

line or phone Blythe at Polyflor on 011 609

trim off factory edges, a seam scriber,

ing a top-quality finish, but it is impor-

3500.inside of your building.

U-type groover, and a welding gun with

tant to note that these tools will not

speed nozzle (also a PUR nozzle with a

make a poor installation good.

not necessarily the views or opinions of

roller wheel). An installer worth his salt

Maintenance of tools

FLOORS in Africa and may not be appli-

also has a spatula trimming knife, weld

It is critical to follow the basics correctly,

cable to all resilient floorcoverings. This

cutting slide and a moisture meter or

as laid down by the manufacturer of

article has not been solicited or sponsored

testing kit to ensure he delivers a profes-

the floor sheeting you are installing. It is

by FLOORS in Africa.

mended. I would suggest that you invest

16

sional installation.

Furthermore, there is a variety of

conditions, a good set of tools is an

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

*The views expressed in this article are

Products & Ser vices

BRASS PROFILES Provide final solutions Brass profiles are used with tiles, carpets, laminates and other flooring types, although they are not as popular as the stainless steel and aluminium profiles because they are generally more expensive.

FLOOR AND WALL FINAL SOLUTIONS

available through Kirk Marketing

Brass capping strip

Brass transition cover

Brass retrofit stairnosing

Brass stair rod

H

Brass square bar

owever, brass profiles are high-wear items and are suitable for heavy pedestrian traffic areas. Designers will use brass

profiles where they deem fit, and the aesthetics of the profiles plays a big part in their use.

Brass profiles are available in their natural format or polished. In

Brass tile-in ramp

KIRK

Brass elite straight edge

Brass round edge

high-wear areas the profiles will maintain that polished look, but in areas of little wear and coastal regions they will tend to tarnish after time. Regular cleaning and polishing will keep them shining.

Like stainless steel, brass is a good option for heavy-duty areas and, like aluminium, it is generally used in its extruded form, but polished brass sheets can be used and bent into different profiles such as for the square edge trim and the retrofit corner protec-

M Trim is a brand of PVC, brass, aluminium, stainless steel and anodised profiles used for tiles, carpets, vinyl and laminate floors.

tor. The extrusion option provides many shapes, sizes and design possibilities.

Kirk Marketing stocks a range of brass retrofit stair nosings, tile-in

Quality Profiles for wood and laminate floors.

Quality Tile Cleaners,Strippers and Sealants.

stair nosings, various size covers and transitions, formable straight edges, different size straight edges, tile-in ramps, round edge trims, flat bars, capping strips, retrofit corner protectors and stair rods and ends. Brass profiles can also be designed to fit the designer’s requirements and any unique design can be manufactured; however, there would be a cost implication.

Brass profiles can be used internally and externally, although the latter will need higher maintenance if a polished finish is required.

Please contact your nearest Kirk branch for advice and help on what brass profile you might require.

For further information: 011 444 1441 / sales@kirk.co.za / www.kirk.co.za.

Structural movement and expansion joints for floors, walls, columns, ceilings, roofs, car garages, bridges.

Fire Barriers also available.

GAUTENG Tel: +27 11 444 1441 Fax: +27 11 444 1165 CAPE TOWN Tel: +27 21 949 2226 Fax: +27 21 949 4531

PVC curvable profiles for multishaped flooring. Commercial and domestic applications.

NEW KWAZULU NATAL Tel: +27 31 564 1175 Fax: 088 031 564 1143 PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 0860 547573 Fax: 086 688 4980

E-mail: sales@kirk.co.za Website: www.kirk.co.za F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

17

Products & Ser vices

MULTI-MILLION RAND It has been announced that PFE Extrusion (Pty) Ltd, a sister company of Van Dyck Carpets, has just completed a multi-million Rand investment in the commissioning of a BCF (bulk continuous filament) yarn extrusion line, and the first production batches have been completed successfully.

T

his extrusion line produces various thicknesses and colours of BCF polypro-

pylene yarns that are then transported to Van Dyck for the manufacturing of residential tufted broadloom carpets.

This investment is the last part of the more than R80-million capital expenditure programme that the new owners of Van Dyck approved a few years ago, making the company more vertically integrated to further enhance its product offering, shorten lead times, improve customer service and have better control over raw material costs.

Other investments completed as part of this capital expenditure programme are the commissioning of a staple fibre extrusion line; the acquisition of some new tufting machines; the acquisition of a new production line for rubber underlays; the purchase of a new laminating line for Van Dyck’s DIY carpet tile offering; and the overall upgrading and modernisation of existing production lines to further improve overall product quality and increase production output to cope with the ever-increasing demand for

18

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Products & Ser vices

INVESTMENT

In BCF yarn extrusion

the company’s products.

The new BCF extrusion line is located at the

Dyck Carpets.

Van Dyck Carpets also expects to be

same site where PFE Extrusion manufactures

ISO 14000 compliant during the course

the staple fibres that Van Dyck uses for its

of 2011/2012, as the company has been

needlepunch offering, and by having both

focusing on environmental manufacturing

lines under one roof the company takes full

processes, including (but not limited to) the

benefit of economies of scale. This site has

minimisation of waste, hazardous materials

also the space and potential for further capi-

and energy expenditure.

tal expenditure if and when required.

The latest product innovations also focus

PFE Extrusion is ISO 9001:2008 compliant

on the use of post-consumer or post-indus-

just like Van Dyck Carpets but more recently,

trial recycled material in the manufacturing

in September 2011, PFE completed the ISO

of products, and all these products can be

14000 compliance successfully and has been

returned to the factory after their lifetime

certified accordingly.

for re-use or recycling. Van Dyck has just recently changed its logo and corporate

The company has an active framework for a holistic, strategic approach to setting environmental objectives in its organisation.

branding to reflect the company’s focus on sustainability.

Thanks to this new extrusion line no further imports of polypropylene yarns are required from overseas, and by doing so the company not only creates more local employment but also minimises the impact of transportation on the environment – two very important benefits that are in perfect harmony with

The company has an active framework for

the company’s vision to build a sustainable

a holistic, strategic approach to setting envi-

future through environmentally and socially

ronmental objectives in its organisation, and

responsible practices.

this framework will now continue through the value chain to its sister company Van

For more information: 031 913 3800 / 0800227738 or www.vandyckcarpets.com

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19

Products & Ser vices

FLOORCARE

A specialist science

The business of cleaning has become a science and that is what the Bidvest Prestige Group does best. Through its specialised divisions, the Bidvest Prestige Group provides tailor-made specialised cleaning services in all sectors. When it comes to floorcare, Bidvest Prestige Group’s experience and expertise gained over 42 years is shared and applied to provide the client with the best possible solution.

The system deep-cleans a carpet more effectively than other methods, using up to 97% less water than conventional methods. It has also been proven that it improves indoor air quality, reduces dust mites by 78%, cat allergen by 85% and mould spores by 85%.

This article was written by Johan le Roux – national floorcare specialist at Bidvest

E

Prestige Group ach site is treated as an individual

Group received the Training Excellence

Prestige’s uncompromising commit-

entity which is surveyed and analysed

Award!

ment to excellence has been recogn-

with the client. Site-specific schedules and

ised by the numerous accolades and

scope of work are drawn up and agreed

their daily business. This will range from

upon by both parties. Various methods

big ride-on sweepers, scrubbers that will

Top 500 South Africa’s Best

are used to ensure that the standards and

sweep/scrub as wide as 1,5m at a pass to

Managed Companies – No. 1 in

service levels are met. These, together with

small machines doing 430mm at a pass.

Cleaning and Contract Services.

client satisfaction reports that are signed by

They also have equipment that weighs

Medi-Clinic Service Provider of

the client, ensure maintenance of optimum

130kg to diamond-grind concrete.

the Year.

service delivery levels.

As an industry leader, the Bidvest Prestige

accreditations received to date such as:

PMR Africa Awards – 1st overall

Group is actively involved with the testing

in the Commercial, Industrial and

business. They have a specialist training

of chemicals and systems which are aligned

Entertainment Cleaning categories.

department that conducts industry-specific

with the Green Cleaning Concept and thus

Kimberly-Clark Golden Service

training, and they offer more than 50 differ-

impact minimally on the environment.

Awards – Best Cleaning company

Training is crucial to the success of their

ent training courses (all SETA accredited),

They focus on cleaning methods which

in the large category for the

which vary from Basic Cleaning Supervisory

use the minimum amount of water and

Retail and Hospitality sectors.

Training courses to Specialised Training and

chemicals. This includes focusing on dry dirt

First cleaning company to

Life Skills Training.

removal by vacuuming (even on hard floors)

become a member of the Green

and the use of micro-fibre cloths and spot-

Building Council.

development of all learning material for

mopping equipment which only releases a

Level 2 B-BBEE Empowered

their staff within their specialised areas of

fine mist spray of water.

Company.

The Services SETA is instrumental in the

expertise. Their excellence in human capital

20

Using mechanised equipment is part of

The Bidvest Prestige Group has also been

development was acknowledged and rec-

using The Host System for carpet cleaning for

ognised at the 2010 Kimberly-Clark Golden

many years. It was the first dry carpet cleaner

info@presclean.co.za /

Services Awards, where the Bidvest Prestige

to be awarded The Green Seal in the USA.

www.bidvestprestigegroup.co.za

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

For further information: 011 796 0000 /

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

21

Products & Ser vices

SAFMA

Better than ever

the worldwide IT trends and developments.

At the 2009 conference, Bonang Mohale gave a presentation on India. He followed it up this year with an in-depth look at China,

The 2011 conference held by SAFMA (South African Facilities

which has now become the second biggest

Management Association) at the Focus Rooms in Sunninghill,

USA’s $14-trillion) – overtaking Japan by

economy in the world (US $6-trillion vs the

Johannesburg, on 23-24 August proved to be the largest to date with

racking up US $3-trillion in foreign reserves.

more than 145 facilities managers and suppliers from 57 different

because in 2004 China rated the same as

organisations exploring the role that Facility Management (FM) plays

Italy, but by 2010 has added Italy’s total to

in service delivery.

the global steel purchased, 50% of the con-

P

This has been achieved fairly rapidly too,

their own. In addition they supplied 36% of crete and 40% of colour televisions.

resentations were given by Bonang

Houston, Texas, to provide the key note

Mohale, the Chairman and Vice-

Mohale says the reason for China’s suc-

address. Copies of all the presentations

President of Shell Oil Products Africa

cess is that they have implemented a full

are available on the SAFMA website at

(South), Andrew Etzinger of Eskom, Manfred

“designed in China and made in China”

www.safma.co.za/portals/0/conference2011.

programme with which they are conquering

Tony Keane gave detailed presentations

the world by designing and manufacturing

Braune of the Green Building Council (to mention just a few), and Tony Keane,

on FM trends and evolution, and the evo-

Chief Executive officer and President

all their materials locally. Because of this

lution of the facilities management field

of International Facility Management

implementation, their economy has grown

which included the role that facilities man-

Association (IFMA), who came from

tenfold since 2004.

agers can and should be playing to meet

As the technical executive of the Green Building Council of South Africa, Manfred Braune’s presentation was on the role that FM could and should be playing in view of the importance of “going green” for the building/ architectural and construction industry, and the requirement to meet the global increase in IT and related technologies.

He said that going green is the most fundamental part of how South Arica should be working harder to contribute to these changes – for the sake of our children and their children’s children.

With the world’s climate change problems putting a lot of pressure on the environment, one way to contribute is by starting to implement the “going green” changes with all specifications, as well as in people’s private homes.

People should start using energy-saving bulbs, putting unused lights off, stopping the wastage of water and so on. Everybody can contribute to the smaller changes to make a big difference.

Amongst other Universities, the Free State University has developed an initiative to offer formal education programmes that may lead to first-degree academic career paths to create a competent workforce in facilities management for South Africa. Information on these and other training programmes are available from SAFMA. For further information: 079 514 9298 / info@safma.co.za / www.safma.co.za

22

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Products & Ser vices

VINYL FLOORS

New click system

Luxury vinyl floors are now just one click away with Belgotex Vinyl’s new Novaclic LVT, the company’s latest glue-less installation system for luxury vinyl planks.

S

eneca is Belgotex Vinyl’s first Novaclic range, designed as a simple tongue-

and-groove click system that locks individual vinyl planks together to create a seamless, smooth finish that is easy to install, yet stylish and water-resistant.

No more messy glues, sticky fuss or lifting – the interlocking joints simply click together to transform any floor in an instant.

What’s more, vinyl floors offer customers all the good looks of natural wood species, down to the plank width and textured finishes, without the drawbacks or expense!

Available in eight natural wooden shades spanning the entire colour spectrum from the lighter, buttery blondes of Cyprus, Blonde Maple or Rustic Pine, through the medium browns of Alpine Elm and Chestnut, to the reddish undertones of African Teak or the greys of Oregon Ash and Blue Gum, Seneca provides a sleek and sophisticated surface that looks as good as it lasts.

Suitable for heavy residential to light commercial installation, Seneca boasts a protec-

tive wear layer that ensures it won’t scuff or

... vinyl floors offer customers all the good looks of natural wood species, down to the plank width and textured finishes, without the drawbacks or expense!

scratch and is guaranteed for 5 years.

For further information: 033 897 7500 / 021 763 6900 / 011 380 9300 / 031 313 9600 / www.belgotexfloorcoverings.com

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

23

Products & Ser vices

TRENDS

Healthcare market

Utilise floor colours that are earthy to evoke a feeling of familiarity and comfort. Select hues derived from nature as these convey growth, renewal and are enduring. Natural

“Colour is psychology. Why? Colours are created in the psyche and,

hues such as sky blues, aquas, terracottas,

therefore, colour is psychology” Dr Lars Sivik, (Prominent interna-

ated from the floor, give life to peaceful and

sages, leaf greens and warm neutrals, if initi-

tional colour and emotion researcher and an original founder of the

comfortable spaces.

NCS system.)

medical and healthcare environments you

In the 2012 FloorworX colour trends for the will find four themes: New Beginnings: There is nothing restrained about this palette!

Think pink tones for the floor in Moms’ ward and bright chromatic colours for the paediatric ward and, whatever you do, don’t use beige – so safe but so depressing!

Create floor patterns with the vast range of bright colours available, and bring nature in through colour to assist alleviating part of the pressure on the parents.

Nurture: This palette is where the flooring colours of the wards for intensive care and patients wards are all concentrated on the lower half of the NCS circle from R60B to G10Y. If chosen for the floor, cool colours with low lightness values aim to induce relaxation, healing and sleep.

The one exception would be the recovery ward after surgery. Here, use orange on the ground – said to create a need for less painkillers and warm up the patient after surgery.

T

Pulse: This is the movement areas, his quotation endorses the trends in

circle from G20Y to R10B when choosing

entrance, corridors, stairwells, day rooms

the healthcare market which illustrate a

flooring colours.

and cafeterias, and here we use the upper

focus on total healing, emphasising wellness

part of the NCS circle, the warmer colours

over illness. Colours are a vital design ele-

with high lightness values for both floors

ment for projects in healthcare as they sig-

and walls. Bring in natural colours, wood

nificantly contribute to a sense of wellbeing

surfaces and plants.

The colouring of the patients’ doors in bright

through a positive healing process.

chromatic colours can be used to lead people

As colours are created in the psyche they induce emotional reactions and by associa-

in the right direction; at the same time staff

tion also physical reactions. By using ‘colour

doors are neutral and naturally ‘camouflaged’.

therapy colours’ subtlety with décor be it

Use FloorworX Superflex or Eclipse for a long-

walls, floors or soft furnishings, relief or cure

lasting and colourful application.

Resources: The staff, administration and lab-

of certain ailments is achieved.

oratories need a change from the rigid colour

Choosing colour for the health care environment becomes simple when using the

Nature Nurtures

areas within the rest of the hospital. A change

NCS Colour Circle – full download of the NCS

Integrating strong links to nature in the over-

in colour provides the staff with a welcome

Navigator at www.floorworx.co.za.

all design of healthcare spaces has shown

downtime. After all, these are the people who

itself to be critical to patient wellbeing and

spend the most time in the facility.

For all patient related areas concentrate the floor colours on the lower half of the circle

the recovery process. It significantly impacts

from R20B to G10Y.

on recovery rates, reduces anxiety and cuts

Tel: 011 486 3190 / lisa@ncscolour.co.za /

down the need for pain medication while

www.ncscolour.co.za or Theresa Venter

rooms, day rooms, cafeterias and administra-

also benefiting the institution with higher

Tel: 011 406 4146 / tventer@floorworx.co.za /

tion areas use the upper half of the colour

staff retention rates.

www.floorworx.co.za

For the corridors, entrance areas, visitor

24

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

For further information: Lisa Taylor

Ice-free Curling slides into Africa Anyone can play Fun and social game Easy to transport and store Played on a carpet instead of ice

Already the rage in Europe and Japan, Curling is a game which stimulates social contact in young and old, requires a certain amount of physical exercise and promotes an active mind.

Matco, a leader in specialised matting, now brings ice-free Curling to Africa.

Matco Head Office

Tel: 011 452 7961/2/3/4 • Fax: 011 452 7965 • sales@matcomats.co.za

www.matcomarketing.co.za

Products & Ser vices

RESIDENTIAL RANGES New colour palette

Belgotex Carpets has announced that two of its popular residential

loop-pile ranges – Berber Heritage and the duo-toned patterned Stoneridge – have been updated with a new earthy colour palette.

B

oth ranges, made from 100% Stainproof

Miracle Fibre, a polypropylene yarn, have been recoloured in line with international colour trends with only the bestselling colours in the existing ASIAN JUTE

CAPRIVI

EGYPTIAN TWEED

collections remaining.

Berber Heritage, a tight level-loop carpet suited to high-traffic areas will retain the popular grey and beige undertones of the Dargle, Winterton and Weenen colourways respectively, whilst six fashionable new

GREEK POTTERY

ITALIAN HONEY

MOROCCAN BERBER

shades will reflect the latest move towards neutral, understated and natural tones.

The light and natural beige tinge of Caprivi will be the only survivor in the current colour spectrum of the duotoned Stoneridge range. This popular square-patterned

COTTAGE CREAM

TURKISH COTTON

BARNSLEY

range will be recoloured to include a further seven contemporary options.

These new colourways reflect the trend towards all things earthy and green and will provide a versatile and neutral base that will outlast seasonal changes in accent colours and effec-

BRADFORD

DARGLE

ROSEDALE

tively hide dirt and soiling. It doesn’t matter what carpet you choose, with Belgotex Floorcoverings it’s always green.

For further information: 033 897 7500 / 021 763 6900 / 011 380 9300 / 031 313 9600 / www.belgotexfloorcoverings.com

SHEFFIELD

26

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

SWINDON

WEENEN

Products & Ser vices

METHACRYLIC FLOORING

Reduces downtime!

One of the most prevalent stum-

ufacturers of methacrylic flooring systems

tion of the Degadur systems to our existing

bling blocks when planning the

and were quick to appoint Verni as their cho-

product range was a logical development. The

installation or refurbishment of

sen South African partners in the methacrylic

partnership with Evonik, one of the leading

flooring market.

global players in the methacrylic market, is

floors is downtime. Many of the industries that require performance flooring operate under very tight manufacturing schedules; curing times are directly

Methacrylic flooring systems have been on the market for several years, but thus far the potential of this technology has not been

further testament to the Verni philosophy of doing it right, or not doing it at all.”

The food and beverage industry is an

actively marketed in South Africa. Verni-

ideal market for methacrylic systems, as the

Speciality Construction Products see the

advantages of short curing times are further

addition of the Degadur systems as a natural

enhanced by the ability of the Degadur sys-

extension to their existing product range.

tems to cure at low temperatures.

Whilst epoxy and polyurethane flooring sys-

This translates into being able to install

linked to downtime – a luxury

tems have their respective places in the floor-

flooring systems in cold-rooms and freezers

that is not freely available in the

ing industry, the greatly reduced curing times

without having to decommission and wait

of methacrylic systems make them an ideal

for the floors to reach acceptable installation

replacement where traditional systems are

temperatures – this obviously has a huge

unable to fulfil the scheduling requirements.

impact on downtime and lost production.

manufacturing industry.

T

Verni-Speciality Construction Products are

In addition to the flooring systems, meth-

he logical solution is to turn to technolo-

ideally positioned, both as manufacturers and

acrylic coving mortar and wall coating are

gies where the curing times are shorter,

applicators, to capitalise on the features and

also available, offering a seamless, hygienic,

benefits of the Degadur range.

resilient system.

leading to reduced downtime, without compromising quality and floor performance.

With this in mind, Verni-Speciality

Verni’s managing director, Vernon Botha,

Verni undertake projects throughout Africa,

sees the partnership with Evonik as a logical

and the Degadur range is available for instal-

Construction Products began discussions

progression for the company. “We are always

lation wherever and whenever necessary.

with Evonik Industries in Germany. Evonik

on the lookout for ways to improve and

are one of the foremost developers and man-

enhance our product offerings, and the addi-

For further information: 086 118 3764 / vernon@verni.co.za

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

27

Products & Ser vices

THE CONSUMER IS You and ALWAYS RIGHT the CPA The Consumer Protection Act, No. 68 of 2008 has been in operation for over seven months now with the aim of promoting a fair,

Basically, the Act enforces nine important consumer rights: 1. Right to Equality in the Consumer Market and Protection Against

accessible and sustainable marketplace for consumer products and

Discriminatory Marketing Practices; 2. Right

services; establishing national norms and standards to ensure con-

Disclosure of Information; 5. Right to Fair

to Privacy; 3. Right to Choose; 4. Right to

sumer protection; and making provision for improved standards of

and Responsible Marketing; 6. Right to Fair

consumer information.

Reasonable Terms and Conditions; 8. Right

and Honest Dealing; 7. Right to Fair, Just and to Fair Value, Good Quality and Safety; and 9.

Right to Accountability from Suppliers.

Now that the CPA has come into force, consumers have the right to return goods, as long as they do so within five business days from when the transaction or agreement was concluded, or from the date the goods were delivered to them (whichever is the later date).

If goods or products are ordered based on a sample or on details in a catalogue, the goods must correspond in all material respects and characteristics with this description or sample.

Although the Act was signed in 2009, and

t also aims to prohibit certain unfair mar-

I

ing industry) have difficulty in interpreting

October 2010, this was delayed and it only

keting and business practices; promote

and implementing the Act – particularly the

came into full effect on 31 March this year,

responsible consumer behaviour; and pro-

basic provisions that entitle the consumer to

which means that all provisions of the Act are

mote a consistent legislative and enforcement

recourse if something they buy doesn’t work

applicable for all goods and services supplied

framework, related to consumer transactions

properly.

from and including 01 April 2011.

and agreements.

If goods or services purchased prove to be

However, the operation and implementation

defective, obviously the preferred option of

of the Act is not all it is cracked up to be in

flooring manufacturer, supplier, retailer, or

the supplier is to repair the item, because this

these early stages. Under the auspices of the

contractor, because it applies to every trans-

would cost them less – but this is not always

Department of Trade & Industry, a National

action occurring within the Republic of South

the best option for the consumer, which is

Consumer Commission has been set up to

Africa; the promotion or supply of any goods

where the CPA comes in.

receive consumer complaints, investigate

This has considerable implications for the

and services occurring within the Republic;

Under the Act consumers have the right to

industry practices and police compliance, but

and goods or services that are supplied or

choose their remedy if something they buy

according to reports in the National Press, it is

performed in the Republic, in terms of trans-

malfunctions within six months of purchase –

underfunded, understaffed and does not even

actions mentioned in the Act, and anybody

unless, of course, they have abused the item.

have a website, so it is largely dysfunctional.

can lodge consumer complaints.

South Africa’s consumers are now claimed

The consumer gets to choose between a refund, replacement or repair.

However, if you want to know more, the Department of Trade & Industry has produced a Guide to the Act that can be downloaded

to be among the best protected in the world

A common misconception is ‘the con-

with an Act that is so far-reaching it is impos-

sumer didn’t read the (small print) Terms &

from the website: www.thedti.gov.za/publica-

sible even to highlight all its implications for

Conditions of our sale or agreement’. Forget

tions.jsp?year=2010 or you can relay any que-

the suppliers and the consumers.

it! Unless they comply implicitly with the full

ries to them by e-mail on

measure of the CPA, the consumer is in no

contactus@dti.gov.za

Nevertheless, it has been found that some companies (not necessarily in the floorcover-

28

was originally planned to be effective in

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

way bound by your conditions.

Happy Trading!

Products & Ser vices

NEW

“Green” head office

Lafarge, a world leader in building materials, has a new South African head office. Designed to meet Lafarge’s ‘green’ energy-saving features, it has provision to accommodate over 270 employ-

unfriendly compounds.

Lighting in the building is controlled by movement sensors, so that energy is only

areas of Johannesburg, Tshwane, OR Tambo International Airport and the Gautrain.

In 2009, and for the fifth year in a row, Sustainable Corporations in the World’. With

doors have not been used because of their

a world-leading building materials research

impact on interior temperatures when they

facility, Lafarge places innovation at the heart

open and close.

of its priorities, working for sustainable con-

A waste recycling system is in force through-

plastic, paper and cans, and the furniture from

where there are separate disposal bins for

struction and architectural creativity.

For further information: 011 657 0000 / 083 656 8586 / anathi.zitumane@lafarge.com

previous offices was refurbished and reused wherever possible.

he new energy-efficient building has

The building itself has been constructed

many environment-friendly features:

using Lafarge cement containing a fly ash

the roof is covered with reflective foil insula-

component, and Artevia decorative concrete

tion to cut down on heat absorption; tinted

finishes. Lafarge is the only manufacturer in

double-glazed windows transmit less heat;

South Africa offering a complete range of

the central airconditioning system is the

extended ‘green’ cements.

refrigerant, rather than the usual but ozone-

also a good location for freeway access to all

water heating is employed, and large sliding

shade parking, a gymnasium and

latest technology and uses ammonia as a

staff and customers from the N3 Freeway. It is

consumed when people are in a room, solar

ees and includes basement and

T

Johannesburg, provides convenient access for

Lafarge was listed in the ‘Global 100 Most

out the building, even at the coffee stations

a staff canteen.

Modderfontein, on the northeast side of

The spacious custom-designed building in the Longmeadow Business Estate in

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

29

Products & Ser vices

WOOD TILES She says that such lifelike imitation is largely created using

laid, it is difficult visually tell the difference between genuine wooden flooring and porcelain tiles with a faux wood design,”

state-of-the-art inkjet glazing

explains Jasmin.

processes that rely on soluble

wood flooring? Well, there are plenty of

salts which permit pigments

practical and technical benefits that tile

to more easily penetrate tiles

terparts – unlike real wood, porcelain tiles

impressed with uneven surfaces.

Other manufacturers leverage

30

With benefits

So why choose porcelain tiles over real

possesses over its genuine wooden counare fire-, moisture-, pest-, chemical-, sun-

and walls with a genuine wooden finish for a

and scratch-resistant.

warm and inviting ambience without having

Jasmin explains: “Tiles are without doubt

to worry about water damage and damp.

digital imaging technologies for

stronger, more durable and longer-lasting

This makes them especially suited to the

realistic imitations.

than wood. Furthermore, they are easy to

wet areas in and around your home, such

clean and sanitise and tiles stand up excep-

as kitchens, bathrooms, spas, steam rooms,

A

tionally well in high-traffic areas. You also

patios and even pool surrounds. These faux

lso, the use of finer mould impres-

won’t have the problem of bleaching, so com-

wood tiles also boast a raised texture, which

sions, refinement of the tile edge to

mon with wooden floors that are located in

gives them a non-slip advantage,” she says.

provide a tighter joint installation and the

direct sunlight. Underfloor heating of any sort

With the two different sizes, it is possible

ability to produce large-format tiles in plank-

is also suitable for tiles, and you won’t need to

to lay the tiles in traditional hardwood floor-

like sizes are all technologies that have been

place felt pads underneath your furniture to

ing patterns, or you could create your very

combined to create these impressively real-

prevent unwanted scratches on the floor.”

own distinctive pattern. The smaller sized

istic faux wood tiles. “The latest generation

“Arguably the most exciting thing about

tile is also ideally suited for skirting board

of faux wood tiles are so realistic that, once

these tiles is that now you can have floors

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

applications.

Products & Ser vices

ROYAL TREAT

Affordable cut-pile carpet Belgotex Carpets’ new cut-pile carpet range – Royal Secret – is fit for a king.

O

ffering the same cut-pile luxury and superb performance char-

acteristics of the popular commercial Westminster range, Royal Secret gives customers the same royal treatment without the princely price tag.

Royal Secret combines soft, plush comfort with modern stainproof convenience.

Royal Secret combines soft, plush comfort with modern stainproof convenience.

Available in 12 contemporary colourways, ranging from light muted neutrals with fashionable grey or beige undertones to the more traditional navy, black and red shades, Royal Secret is ideal for heavy resiCOTTAGE CREAM

AUGUST MOON

MISTY ROSE

dential or light commercial areas.

The pile provides sensuous comfort and cushioning underfoot, adding fabulous texture and indulgence to bedrooms, lounges or executive suites. Soft, stainproof SDX fibres absorb sound, creating a peaceful, tranquil environment, and provide insulation that naturally warms

CANDLELIGHT

VOLCANIC ASH

SEA SHELL

or cools the room, whilst any household stains can easily be removed by using an equal mix of household bleach and water.

In short, it’s no secret that customers love the warmth and comfort of cut-pile carpets, but without the hassles of regular steam-cleaning and stain removal or expensive price tags.

RUSHING RIVER

HONEYCOMB

TOASTED ALMOND

It doesn’t matter what carpet you choose, with Belgotex Floorcoverings it’s always green.Let them in on Royal Secret.

For further information: 033 897 7500 / 021 763 6900 / 011 380 9300 / 031 313 9600 / www.belgotexfloorcoverings.com

KHAKI SHADE

NAVAJO RED

PAPER LANTERN

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

31

Products & Ser vices

32

F LO O R S J u l y Au g 2 0 1 1

Products & Ser vices

F L O O R S J u l y A u g 2 0 1 1 33

Products & Ser vices

10 REASONS

Why carpet?

Here’s why!

Transiton Transport is the transport company responsible for transporting many of the carpets sold in South Africa – from the factories to you. They are passionate about carpets, and have sponsored this article to show you why they love carpets – and why you should too!

These are ten reasons why Transiton believes you should look no further:

8. Not so noisy

1. Affordable There is often a misconception that carpeting is expensive, but these days that is not true.

Modern fibres and manufacturing techniques make carpets your most affordable and stylish choice of floorcovering.

Carpet soaks up noise and provides a more relaxed ambience in your home, with virtually no impact noise, clatter or echo.

5. Perfectly safe With a non-slip surface that makes them safe for children, the infirm and the elderly, carpets also have a built-in softness that further reduces the risk of injury.

6. Clinically approved Carpet is not only safe, but orthopaedic specialists confirm that they alleviate strain on backs and joints. It is said that walking barefoot on carpeting also acts as reflex massage treatment

2. Spoilt for choice Carpets are available in a wide variety of colours, textures and patterns to meet your exact needs, with styles that will complement or enhance the décor of every room in your home.

3. Dust is captured The fibres in the pile of a quality carpet trap dust until the next vacuum cleaning, so the amount of airborne dust in carpeted rooms is much lower than in bare rooms, where dust is constantly disturbed by draughts and sweeping.

A carpet provides superb thermal insulation and not only feels warmer underfoot, but in fact retains 10% more ambient heat.

Airborne dust is a carrier of germs and allergens, but these are reduced by the dust-trapping properties of a quality carpet, which will not cause allergic reactions if regularly vacuumed, and is therefore an excellent choice for people with allergies to house-dust mites.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Carpets can be installed quickly, with no mess. They require minimum effort to clean and maintain – and, of course, they won’t crack, scratch, scuff or splinter.

7. Energy saving

4. Reduction of allergens

34

9. Easy to clean

10. Long lasting Modern manufacturing means a carpet will keep looking good for longer than ever before, and those with comprehensive guarantees and warranties give you complete peace of mind.

Successful projects The South African floorcovering industry has an envi-

have the third annual feature on Successful Projects

able reputation for proficiency, product or service

– a venture that has become one of the most read

quality and innovation, and we are proud to bring

and sought-after features that we run each year, as

to everyone’s attention the world-class projects

everyone wants to talk about the outstanding proj-

and product developments that regularly feature

ects they have handled, and why their products and

in our issues throughout the year. In this issue we

systems were preferred in these instances.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

35

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS World-class!

The South African floorcovering industry has an enviable reputation for proficiency, product or service quality and innovation,

and we are proud to bring to everyone’s attention the world-class projects and product developments

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLOWCRETE SA

that regularly feature in our issues throughout the year.

36

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLOWCRETE SA

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

I

n this issue we have the third annual

waterproofing of a car wash; parkades; and

Terminal 3 Building at Dubai Airport, which

feature on Successful Projects – a venture

surface coatings of all descriptions.

opened on 14 October 2008 and was built

that has become one of the most read and

This year the response has been equally

exclusively for the use of Emirates airline.

sought-after features that we run each

exciting and we are able to feature quality

year, as everyone wants to talk about the

flooring with aesthetic appeal and high per-

International and Dar Al-Handasah

outstanding projects they have handled,

formance – as the industry sets its stall out

Consultancy, with Al Habtoor Leighton

and why their products and systems were

to let the decision-makers and designers

Group, Murray & Roberts and Takenaka

preferred in these instances.

know exactly what they can do.

as the main contractors, Terminal 3 is the

For instance, last year’s feature produced

This means that the feature will be

Designed by Aéroports de Paris

single largest building in the world by floor

a wide variety of projects with superbly

insightfully populated by our readers and

space of 1 500 000m² (166 hectares) that

finished floors, including a major car plant;

advertisers, but we couldn’t let this oppor-

brought the total capacity of the airport

a 5-star hotel in Sandton; a leading wine

tunity pass without providing details of

to over 62 million passengers, which will

cellar; an upmarket crèche; banks and uni-

the world’s largest floor space which illus-

increase to more than 80 million passengers

versity buildings; matting and adhesives

trates the efficacy of flooring materials in

when Concourse 3 opens.

used at 2010 FIFA World Cup stadiums; sev-

extremely heavy traffic conditions, briefly

eral projects using specialised construction

reported on in our previous issue.

products; a spectacular flooring showroom;

This is the US$4,5-billion (R31,3-billion)

Concourse 3 – also part of Terminal 3 – is expected to be completed by 2012, and is being built exclusively for the Emirates

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

37

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

Terminal 3 - the single largest building by floor space.

Airbus A380.

Dar Al-Handasah (Shair & Partners) was established in Beirut, Lebanon in 1956 and

was also included within the scope of supply

engineering’.

together with background preparation prod-

Against strong local and international

ucts. A one part flexible white adhesive and

has since become one of the world’s lead-

competition, UK-based Johnson Tiles won a

a high performance Johnson Professional

ing international consultancies specialis-

multi-million dollar contract for the supply

epoxy grout form the two principal products

ing in engineering, architecture, planning,

of tiles and adhesives to the new terminal

within the fixing specification.

environmental, project management, and

construction.

Terminal 3 also features 380 000m² of

The tiles, which were specified from the

Panha Fragola Corcovado, a Brazilian stone

Kerastar porcelain tile range, and Prismatics

that presented a serious sealing challenge

Lebanon, Egypt, UK and India, and 43 offices

and Architectural wall ranges, were dual-

because it contains soluble pyrite (an iron

in 30 countries throughout the Middle

sourced out of the UK and the Philkeram

sulphide) which can absorb water from the

East, Asia and Africa – including an office in

Johnson plant in Greece.

mortar bed during curing and cause severe

economics.

This consultancy has main design offices in

Johannesburg. In Arabic, the name

38

Dar Al-Handasah means ‘the house of

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

A complete adhesives and grouting system

discoloration.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLOWCRETE SA

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

the multi-storey car parking facility, with

as this, but there is no doubt that the peo-

oped (and since marketed commercially

some 110 000m² installed on all five levels,

ple who know what they are doing in the

with international success) in order to pro-

including the top deck.

South African flooring industry approach

A six-sided sealing solution was devel-

tect the stone from moisture throughout the 28-day curing process.

A selection of Flowcrete’s specialist sys-

A further 260 000m² of Deckshield was

every project with diligence, expertise,

installed in all service roadways underneath

great products and systems, and the utmost

the Terminal Complex, the baggage handling

in customer care.

Read on and discover!

tems – including screeds, car park decking,

areas and in all plant rooms, and some 40

hygienic and fast-track floors – has also

000m² of the semi-dry cementitious subfloor

helped the new Terminal 3 and Concourse

screed system, Isocrete K-Screed, was used

to the following for information contained

2 developments take off in style at Dubai

beneath the external tiles at the passenger

in this article: www.dubaiairportguide.com;

International Airport.

set-down area in the Departures Hall.

constructionworldarchitecture.com; www.ntl-

Also UK-based, Flowcrete’s flexible waterproof Deckshield system was specified for

It is not everyone that gets the opportunity of operating on a mammoth project such

Acknowledgement and thanks are given

floortrends.com; www.norcros-adhesives.com; www.flowcrete.com.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

39

Feature Focus: I ndustrial Flooring

floorworx

40

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

floorworx

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

41

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

FLOORING

Second Classic Health Club

During the last week of March this year, Virgin Active opened the second only Classic Virgin Active Club in South Africa (after Melrose Arch in Johannesburg).

S

ituated at the Moses Mabhida Stadium Isaiah Ntshangase Road

(NMR Ave), Durban, this luxurious facility boasts fine Italian-inspired design and décor including features such as a 25-metre lap training pool with rim overflow (thus no swimming caps required), poolside shower cubicles, spacious glass shower cubicles installed in the change rooms, and keyless combination locks for members to safely store their valuables.

During the opening ceremony, Ross Faragher-Thomas, Virgin Active South Africa managing director, described the Classic-brand facilities as being ‘elegant and mature; charismatic; motivating; professional; aspirational; inclusive; a mentor and a friend’ and one of the major benefits of membership is that all Classic Health Club members have Premier access and can thus train at any other Virgin Active facility, locally and internationally.

From a flooring viewpoint, this was a very interesting project. Although there were other floorcoverings used on this project, there were three types of flooring materials supplied by FloorworX and installed by Leicester Floors of Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal – a recent addition to the popular Marmoleum range; a new metallic-finish vinyl tile; and a proven vinylsheet sports floor product.

Marmoleum Crocodiles is a really exceptional addition to the range, incorporating a special monochromatic embossing with a delicate crocodile pattern that not only looks and feels exclusive, but also plays with the light and provides a distinctive texture.

Provided in rolls of 2m wide and 2,5 mm thick, Marmoleum Crocodiles is of identical construction to the traditional Marmoleum range, which is distinguished by being manufactured from totally natural and sustainable materials such as linseed oil, cork, limestone, tree rosins and natural minerals.

Almost 100m² of this floorcovering was used in a black finish for the downstairs intimate coffee area.

The new Allura collection introduced to the world market in January this year is

V-Cycle studio at Vrgin Cassic Durban

42

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

described as taking the world of Luxury

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

Vinyl Tiles to the next level of sophistication

the walkways on the training floor on this

and performance.

project.

Superior texture is what sets this range

In the V-Cycle studio at Virgin Classic

ity and good anti-slip properties.

Architect Lizl van Wyk of Design Line Architects & Interior Design in Cape Town

apart, with a cutting-edge collection of

Durban, 120m² of red Sports Supreme

(which is the appointed architectural prac-

wood, stone, metallic and glass designs that

multipurpose sports flooring was used.

tice for all Virgin Active new building) says

provide a 3-dimensional effect achieved

This product is an indoor vinyl sports floor

that linoleum and vinyl floorcoverings are

through both surface and reverse emboss-

sheeting (2m x 15m and available in six

the preferred flooring materials for these

ing which lifts exclusive designs from one-

colours) that ensures optimal adhesion on

fitness centres, and the new items used

dimensional print to what looks and feels

its surface through its embossing.

on this project fitted the image that Virgin

like hewn wood or handscraped stone that is

Due to its special foam layers, it has a

almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

high indentation rate, therefore sparing the

Over 140m² of these Allura tiles were pro-

joints of users. It also has excellent abrasion

vided in Silver Metal Corrugated finish for

and chemical resistance, dimensional stabil-

Classic needs to portray. “We are very happy with the end result,” she says.

For more information: 0860 346 679 or www.floorworx.co.za

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

43

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

S&N RUBBER

Resurfacing factory floor

S&N Rubber, a manufacturer of rubber and silicone components for the automotive, industrial and agricultural industries situated in Deal Party, Port Elizabeth, needed their factory floor area to be resurfaced with a tough, low-maintenance, long-lasting covering.

Sika’s renowned range of superior flooring products was the immediate choice of Justin Scott of William Scott Contracts.

F

irstly a scraper coat, Sikafloor-261 ZA

chemical and mechanical resistance, as well

RAL 9002, was applied to prevent any

as a high-gloss finish that is highly durable.

pinholes and to level any deviations in the

As the S&N Rubber factory could not be

factory floor. Priming the 600m² substrate

closed for any length of time, the contractor

was achieved using Sikafloor-156, a two-

was given one week in which to complete

part, low-viscosity, epoxy resin providing

the project. Due to the easy application and

good penetration ability and high-bond

short waiting times of Sika’s advanced floor-

strength. It is also solvent-free with the

ing products, this time constraint posed no

added advantage of short waiting periods

problem.

S&N Rubber was able to resume its

between coatings.

Finally, a 2mm self-levelling topcoat of

manufacturing operations confident in the

Sikafloor-261 ZA (silver grey) mixed with SS2

knowledge that the factory floor was resur-

filler component was applied. Due to its low

faced with the highest quality products for

viscosity and self-smoothing properties, this

which Sika is world-renowned.

economical multi-purpose binder produces a high-quality coating that provides good

For further information on Sika products and systems, visit www.sika.co.za.

sika

44

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Feature Focus: Successful Projec ts

SELF-LEVELLING For Toyota SYSTEM workshops The new floors at the Toyota Hillcrest workshops in Durban utilised an acclaimed self-levelling epoxy flooring system from a.b.e. Construction Chemicals. Bradley Hunt, technical sales consultant for a.b.e. in KwaZulu-Natal, says the a.b.e.approved flooring contractor, Duraco, successfully applied abeflo at 2mm thick to 1 375m² of the floors at the Toyota plant.

abeflo in Sand yellow used at Toyota Hillcrest

“a

beflo is a four-component, solvent-free, self-levelling flooring surface system which consists of a clear resin (base and acti-

vator), pre-packed aggregate and ready-for-use pigment paste. The seamless product caters for a high standard of hygiene and provides good colour retention and a medium-gloss finish,” Hunt states.

He says typical end-use locations are factories, showrooms, hospitals, schools, canteens, supermarkets and garages. Toyota selected Sand Yellow, an equivalent of Toyota Beige for the workshops floors. abeflo is available in a variety of standard colours which includes Pale and Medium Sea Grey, Drakensberg Green, Light Stone, Red Oxide and Leaf Green, with others available on request. “abeflo is the ideal product for the Toyota workshop floors as it provides strong resistance to spillages of oil, diesel, greases, water, fats, as well as diluted acids and alkalis,” Hunt explains. a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ flooring systems provide an extensive and fully integrated range of products for a wide variety of applications.

Among recent prestige projects for which the company supplied flooring systems are Sandvik’s headquarters in Jet Park, the Paarl abattoir, ABSA Capital parking garage in Sandton, Mondi Paper Mill near Durban, Canon and Panasonic workshops in East London, the Makhado Air Force Base in Louis Trichardt, and St Dominic’s Hospital and Aspen Pharmacare in the Eastern Cape.

For further information: 011 306 9000 or www.abe.co.za.

46

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Below the surface In taking a look ‘below the surface’ one first needs

These are mostly produced in a highly automated

to consider the building construction and the sub-

production process up to 11-12 metres in length,

floor structure and, although there are numerous

and those provided with a smooth bottom surface

alternatives, the one system most relevant to the

also serve as a finished ceiling that only needs

flooring industry is hollow core floor slabs.

painting.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

47

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

WARMUP

HIDDEN BENEFITS

Below the surface

In taking a look ‘below the surface’

The subfloor As long as it looks clean and reasonably

weight of the floor is reduced, and these

attractive, hardly anybody takes any notice of

building construction and the

voids can be used for technical installations

the floor they are walking on and even fewer

subfloor structure and, although

such as ventilation conduits, plumbing and

know what goes on underneath their feet,

electrical pipes. Good sound insulation

but unless the make-up of the floor has been

there are numerous alternatives,

properties.

properly designed to do the job required of

the one system most relevant to

struction time, absence of scaffolding, high

Faulty subfloors and excessive moisture can

the flooring industry is hollow

mechanical and durability performance, an

cause wood and laminate panels to separate;

core floor slabs.

excellent span/depth ratio and good flexibil-

the cracking of concrete substrates will dam-

ity in design, and they can be used with all

age ceramic and porcelain tiles; and uneven

T

types of supporting structures such as load-

substrates will affect the installation and per-

hese are mostly produced in a highly auto-

bearing walls, skeletal concrete structures or

formance of resilient floorcoverings.

mated production process up to 11-12

steel frames.

smooth bottom surface also serve as a finished

used, hollow core slabs can also have the fin-

always the floorcovering or the adhesive that

ceiling that only needs painting.

ished floor installed directly on top.

is apportioned the blame, but invariably the

one first needs to consider the

metres in length, and those provided with a

48

Structurally, because of the longitudinal hollow cores inherent in the slabs, the

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

On-site benefits include a shorter con-

Depending on what floorcovering is to be

it, it can fail or even become dangerous.

A common anomaly is that if an installed floor does go wrong in any way, it is almost

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

fault is found to lie either in the workmanship of the installer or, more likely, in the provision of an incorrect or faulty subfloor.

The manufacturers of most types of floorcovering stipulate that a clean, smooth, sound, and rigid subfloor is required to support the floor and any anticipated loads without distortion or movement, but one of the major bugbears with new substrates or screeds that affects the look and performance of the floor is moisture.

If a floorcovering is laid with excessive moisture present this can result in the adhesives degrading and not working properly, which in turn could cause the floorcovering to come away from the slab. Also, many types of floorcovering will suffer from product failure, condensation, blistering, movement and other forms of deterioration if moisture is present.

It is always recommended, therefore, that before any installation takes place concrete bases must be allowed to dry to a moisture level of 75% RH or less – determined with the use of a hygrometer. If 75% RH cannot be reached, a moisture barrier must be used – either plastic sheeting or a surface-applied liquid membrane.

Some floor finishes, such as resilient floorcoverings, are dependent on the smoothness of the subfloor to establish a flawless installation. ensure that imperfections in the screed will not ‘grin through’ the finished floor surface.

Screeds Whilst on the subject of screeds, it is worth noting the difference between a screed and a topping. A screed is a layer of well-compacted cement and fine aggregate applied to a base at the appropriate thick-

LEGRAND SOLUFLEX

In these cases, a proprietary self-levelling screed is often preferred to

ness and that has a surface suitable for receiving a floor finish; a topping is a layer of high-strength concrete designed to provide a dense, abrasion-resistant surface on a concrete base, or to increase the structural depth and strength of a base slab.

It should also be noted that screeds are generally not suitable as wearing surfaces in commercial buildings, high-traffic areas, or in industrial premises, where full-thickness trowelled concrete or a topping on a concrete base should be used as the subfloor to receive the floorcovering.

Anyone in doubt or seeking information about the technical aspects of concrete bases, screeds, moisture, and toppings should view the website of the Cement & Concrete Institute (C&CI) website www.cnci.org.za – or get in touch with their technical staff personally on 011 315 0300.

Access flooring and cable management The most important features of modern office building and layout need to accommodate the requirements of the computer and communication technology in use, together with the frequent changes in staffing and office layout – and these are adequately catered for below the surface with the provision of a quality raised access floor or cable management system.

Raised access floor systems consist of modular floor panels typically 600mm square, mounted on pedestals secured to the structural slab. The height of the floor panels above the slab determines the plenum depth.

This could be as low as 75mm on installations devoted only to cable distribution although, when incorporating air distribution systems, plenum depths can range up to one metre.

Raised access floor systems thus provide a multi-functional floor with any workspace, without compromising the aesthetics of the finished floor, enabling a building’s infrastructure to be both versatile and visually unobtrusive. Where air distribution is required, the access floor must also

BERGVIK

access to the telecommunications and HVAC connections necessary for

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

49

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

accommodate the ducts, grilles and other

can amount to a 5-7% saving in construction

of a floating floor which in turn improves its

equipment related to the building’s HVAC

cost. Also the construction time can be cut

structural integrity, and some underlays are

system.

by 15-25%.

additionally designed to prevent moisture

Because underfloor airconditioning sys-

penetration from the subfloor below. Others

the plenum, either freely or contained within

tems (sometimes called zonal mixing sys-

provide insulation or sound-dampening ser-

flexible conduits (according to fire code

tems) do not require ceiling voids, they can

vices between floors; and some simply act as

requirements). At various locations the cables

be used where head room is limited, and

a cushion to make standing and walking on

are accessed via openings in the floor panels,

the low-pressure plenum (usually 5-15 Pa)

the floorcovering more pleasant.

floor-mounted terminal boxes, or integrated

reduces fan power and noise.

Cables can be run in any direction within

comfort in some form (thermal or sound insu-

When raised floors are employed solely for

occupant buildings can benefit from diversi-

lation; underfoot comfort) and make a serious

cable management, thereby necessitating the

fied operational hours, and humidity control

contribution to the overall performance and

installation of a conventional ceiling-based air

can be installed on a zone-by-zone basis,

lifespan of the floorcoverings.

distribution system, floor-to-ceiling heights,

offering further energy saving.

Floor heating

space planning and future maintenance are

Floor voids are easily accessed for cleaning

The old method of installing underfloor heat-

restricted by the need to accommodate both

(whereas ductwork is difficult to access and

ing under a thick concrete screed has largely

an underfloor plenum and ceiling plenum

expensive to clean) and the systems are quick

fallen out of favour for several reasons, not the

within a typical office floor.

and easy to design. Also, the relocation of

least of which is that they are expensive to run

equipment is fast, offering savings in the cost

because they have to heat up the ‘slab’ on top

a quality raised access floor is a specialist

of change, and high levels of user satisfaction

of them before the room begin to warm up.

operation, and the only way to obtain a trou-

have been recorded in many countries.

ble-free installation is to use a proven system

Underlays

installing the heating system immediately

that has been designed and installed by a

Modern underlays are provided in a range of

under the floorcovering regardless of what

reputable and experienced contractor.

materials to meet a wide variety of installed

type of floor is being used, and every type of

Underfloor airconditioning

requirements. Many also now favour the

floorcovering can be accommodated – they

Although underfloor airconditioning is not

recycling of old waste and textile material to

can even be supplied as a loose-lay fitment

the only answer for the provision of comfort-

produce underfelts that are dust-free, have no

under carpets or rugs on hard floors.

able offices and commercial buildings, it

impurities, are inexpensive, and are environ-

does provide a considerable number of ben-

mentally friendly – because they save these

systems that are fully programmable, totally

efits, and it is logical to run this information

materials from being dumped in landfills.

safe in operation, energy efficient, unobtru-

Specialist underlays are now available

sive, and will add comfort and value to any

However, the provision and installation of

in line with access flooring.

With modern floor heating the accent is on

Modern technology has also provided

building.

Floor voids for modern airconditioning

for all types of floorcovering, and they are

need be no more than 300-350mm high,

often required to act as a cushion between

offering a saving in building height. In new-

uneven subfloors and the underside of the

any of the materials or items mentioned in

build projects, this overall reduction in the

floorcovering.

this article, it pays to consult an expert and to

height of the building (10-15%) as opposed to ceiling or other forms of airconditioning

50

However, all underlays provide additional

Multi-tenanted buildings or large single-

within modular office furniture.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

There are underlays that can help in reducing pressure on the interlocking mechanism

To conclude, if you have a requirement for

ensure that the installations are carried out by a competent, reliable company.

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

FAMOUS BRAND For more than 50 years, the

flooring, the whole range comprises practical products and solutions for today’s

Uzin brand has been an inter-

craftsman.

nationally acclaimed name that stands for professional installa-

Every substrate places its own demands on the type of preparation. For Uzin, proper and professional preparation of

tion know-how in everything to

substrates is the most important step

do with flooring – and now it is

this reason, the range includes high-qual-

towards perfect floor construction. For

readily available in South Africa!

ity primers, levelling compounds, under-

C

load-bearing foundation…and, to meet

lays and special products for the optimum

ontract Flooring Distributors

the current demand for environmentally

(CFD) of Johannesburg, one of

friendly materials, Uzin products are Green

South Africa’s oldest and well-respected suppliers of quality products and sys-

Butterfly compliant.

Today, people have individual ideas

tems, is now the sole distributor of this

about aesthetics and lifestyle. Equally

exciting range of products for the local

diverse are the designs and materials

floorcovering industry, under an agree-

used in flooring. Therefore, the Uzin range

ment with Uzin Utz AG of Germany.

includes adhesives and accessories that

With intelligent installation systems

are matched to the different flooring

for all types of floorcoverings including

types (textile, resilients, wood and lami-

smoothing compounds and damp-

nates).

proofing systems, adhesives for textile and resilient coverings as well as wood

The range covers products from very low-emission dispersion adhesives,

Now in SA!

through reaction resin systems, to modern wood flooring adhesives. Very many of these high-quality adhesives are solventfree and very low-emission, and the range is completed with products for special applications, such as conductive or easyrelease systems and very low-emission contact adhesives.

Commenting on this significant addition to the CFD sales programme, managing director Angelo Rolando says, “We have been in business since 1977, and this is one of the most exciting developments the company has undertaken.”

“We have been dealing with this extensive range of high-quality products for some months now, and those architects, interior designers and flooring contractors that have already experienced these products love the under-floor excellence and peace of mind for subfloor preparation and installation that these products provide,” he concludes.

For further information: 011 882 1000 / www.cfdflooring.co.za

Achieve a perfect floor finish every time with Uzin Sub Floor Preparation Sole Distributors of the Uzin Range of Sub Floor Preparations Contact Us today for expert advice and training Tel: (011) 882-1000/9 - 3510 Fax: (011) 882-5403 E-mail: caroline@cfdflooring.co.za Website: www.cfdflooring.co.za

- the difference

p cfd contract flooring distributors (pty) ltd

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

51

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

SMOOTH SCREED

Perfect solution

For super-smooth screeding, TAL Screedmaster promises customers the perfect solution. It is a high-strength, rapid-set, shrinkage-compensated compound with high flow properties to produce a level, smooth, flexible and hardwearing floor surface.

I

t is renowned for its satin-smooth finish

for screeding and tiling, the ultra-smooth,

and fast-setting qualities as final floorcover-

self-levelling, flowing and pumpable TAL

ings can be fixed after 24 hours, making TAL

Screedmaster is suitable for all floorcover-

Screedmaster the levelling screed of choice.

ings including hospitals and food prepara-

“TAL Screedmaster is locally manufactured

tion areas, as it contains no casein or other

using European technology and can both

protein-bearing additives, making it very

be hand-applied and pumped,” explains TAL

hygienic.

technical manager Obert Rukato. “Its light

“In my 32 years of experience in the floor-

labour-intensive and easy to apply,” says Dodds Pringle from Raadzaal Carpets.

TAL offers a free pump service with the

beige colour makes it easy to differentiate

ing trade, it has been difficult to find a

from regular, grey cement slabs.” While differ-

good screeding product and I found TAL

purchase of TAL Screedmaster that allows

ent colours can be prepared, minimum order

Screedmaster a blessing to use. It offers a

for fast-track installations and ensures a

quantities apply.

smooth finish, is reliable and has stood the

smooth and consistent finish. Pumps are

test of time. It is time-saving, as it is less

available to contractors throughout the

Manufactured by the innovators of products

country free of charge.

The company trains the contractor’s staff in the mixing and application of the product, as well as the use of the pump. TAL provides free on-site technical assistance and customers can call its contact centre for a quote. This is not a free installation service, but rather TAL offers free on-site technical assistance.

“The pump application reduces time and labour as the mechanised process ensures a fast and accurate finish with measured consistency that guarantees a superior quality endproduct,” says Rukato.

TAL has 40 years’ experience in South Africa and its products are made in South Africa by South Africans for South Africans and especially formulated to suit local conditions. TAL is ISO 9001:2008 quality management systemcertified and its products are designed, manufactured and tested to TAL standards, assuring customers that products will perform to specification.

The TAL Warranty Programme offers a 10-year warranty on any tiling installation, providing a Materials and Methods specification is issued by TAL for the project. TAL products are used in strict accordance with the specification and the installation is undertaken by a TAL registered tiler and monitored

by TAL. For technical advice: 0860 000 (TAL) 825 /

The pump application reduces time & labour, ensuring a fast &accurate finish

52

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

www.tal.co.za

Feature Focus: Cleaning & M aintenance & Repairs

TAL

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

53

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

SELF-LEVELLING SCREED Perfect subfloor

perfect subfloor.

and Laminate Association) Pharaoh Cement

G

With its rapid drying time and superior

will be helping the association in writing a

coverage the product is gaining popularity

specification for effective subfloor prepara-

ood subfloor preparation is vital to

in achieving perfect subfloors. Of course,

tion, which will emphasise the use of self-

the successful installation of any

any subfloor must be measured in terms

levelling screeds to achieve durable, flat

floorcovering. So often, concrete slabs are

of durability and should be serviceable for

and level floors.

produced with such poor workmanship that

years to come.

they do not meet the national standard of good building practice.

It is difficult to avoid some embarrassing

The most important aspect which must be addressed before any floorcovering – including an underlay – is applied is screed mois-

problems which result from a poor subfloor –

ture. When screed moisture levels exceed

unevenness, irregularities and imperfections

3-4% the entire system is at risk of failure.

can all be mirrored through the floorcovering.

The most effective and simplest way to

Fast-track construction does not allow sufficient time for proper drying of the concrete/

achieve a perfect subfloor is to repair the

screed. A conservative measurement is that

existing screed with a true self-levelling floor

concrete takes approximately 1 month per

screed. The South African market has become

25mm slab thickness to dry sufficiently, which

accustomed to using screed filling products

means that a slab of 150mm needs 6 months

which, without a high skill level, can still leave

drying time.

trowel marks and unevenness.

A true self-levelling screed such as Levelite

For further information: 011 864 4918 / www.pharaohcement.co.za

Fortunately, moisture barriers are available to remove the impact that moisture can

from Pharaoh Cement will flow and spread

cause on a flooring system. If a moisture bar-

itself over imperfections and irregularities.

rier is applied the fast-track construction can

The product’s ease of use affords the oppor-

continue without needing a lengthy wait.

tunity even for novices to achieve the most

Through SAWLFA (South African Wood

A true self-levelling screed will spread and flow over imperfections

The beginning to a perfect floor

With LeveliTe™ unique formulation, exceptional coverage and optimal flatness it is by far the most superior self-levelling screed in its class. We supply Retailers, Contractors and the DIY enthusiast, who want the beginning to a perfect floor!

Pharaoh Cement (Pty) Ltd Tel +27 (11) 864-4918 Fax +27 (11) 864-2123 E-mail: sales@pharaohcement.co.za Website: www.pharaohcement.co.za

54

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

UNDERLAYS

Environmental benefits

With the accent firmly on preferences for products that provide distinct environmental benefits, specifiers and designers have acclaimed the underlays developed and manufactured by Belgotex

he Orange and Blue underlays in the

T

commercial broadloom carpet installations

Belgotex Floorcoverings sales pro-

for improved performance and sound and

grammes are not only manufactured under

thermal insulation in corporate environ-

the strict ISO 14001 standards but have also

ments such as boardrooms, conference ven-

passed the stringent tests for VOC (Volatile

ues and offices.

Featuring air-encapsulated latex foam and 100% woven Polypropylene scrim, Blue

the GBCSA Green Star criteria for both total

underlay combines an advanced anti-fatigue

VOC emission and Phenylcyclohexene rates.

construction with superior comfort, heat insulation and anti-allergy properties – mak-

lations, improves air quality and vacuum

ing it the perfect foundation for your next

efficiency by absorbing dust and allergens

project. Nexus recommends the fitting of

and extends the service life of the carpet by

Blue underlay in all commercial installations

providing better underfoot cushioning. It

to extend carpet life.

also enhances the appearance of the carpet and provides excellent acoustic benefits.

Blue underlay is recommended for use in

For further information: 033 897 7500/ www.environmentalchoice.co.za.

underlays

colours, with both having tested well below

Orange underlay, used in residential instal-

to installations.

Advantages of Blue & Orange

Floorcoverings.

Organic Compound) emissions with flying

improved comfort, durability and insulation

The results mentioned above provide extra peace of mind that Belgotex Floorcoverings underlays contribute nothing more than

Enhanced cushion effect provides additional comfort Anti-fatigue construction Excellent recovery which allows for improved performance Excellent density and support factor Frim feel underfoot Reduces wear on stairs Improves sound insulation Resistance to moisture and mildew Improves heat and cold insulation by 4’c Underfloor heating compatibility – up to 40°C surface temperature Availability in 3,66m width

9 Voyager Street, Linbro Park Tel: +27 11 608 4270 Cell: +27 82 604 5242 Fax: +27 11 608 4278 E-Mail: jbates@mweb.co.za www.batesaccessflooring.co.za

SUPPLIERS & INSTALLERS OF:

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

55

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS Latest technology

nary ‘levelling out’ of surfaces which have

Mapei South Africa brings the latest Italian flooring technology to

maximum of 50% of Mapei Quartz 0.5.

the South African market with polyurethane-cement, self-levelling

ing, mixed substrates, such as concrete/

systems that are ideal for application on industrial floors, offering

ceramic or concrete/natural stone), the

high resistance to chemicals and high temperatures, while provid-

with Mesh 320 glass-fibre mesh, in order

ing incredible strength, resulting in superior durability.

It is also possible to carry out a prelimia slightly rough finish by applying a single coat of Primer SN blended with up to a If necessary (in the presence of crack-

layer may be reinforced using Primer SN to evenly distribute any stresses generated in the substrate.

“It’s very simple to apply Primer SN to floor surfaces,” says Nieuwoudt. “After mixing the two pre-dosed components, Primer SN can be applied to the prepared substrate using either a metal trowel or smooth rake.”

Primer SN is available in 20-kilogram kits.

This Mapei flooring system – Mapefloor CPU/MF and Primer SN – helps to protect against stresses caused by forklifts trucks, rubber-wheeled vehicles, and heavy traffic in shopping centres, laboratories and hospitals. The system is also ideal for use where hygiene is important – such as in the foodstuffs, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Primer SN offers advanced durability against chemical attacks, high temperatures and heavy traffic.

T

he Mapefloor CPU/MF system is a

variations.

three-component, self-levelling,

Preparing with Primer SN

polyurethane-cement formulate, designed

To improve the bonding of epoxy and

as a protective coating for industrial floors

polyurethane Mapefloor systems, a two-

made of concrete and cement terrazzo.

component, epoxy- resin-based, pre-

Paul Nieuwoudt, Product Manager at

56

fillerised primer is used. Primer SN is char-

Mapei South Africa, says, “Mapefloor CPU/

acterised by its capacity to penetrate well

MF creates a three to four millimetre

into the substrate and may also be used

thick layer that is exceptionally resistant

on substrates which are slightly damp

to abrasion when applied in conjunction

(maximum humidity level 4%) – greatly

with suitable preparation and priming of

improving the bonding of polyurethane

the substrate.” Mapefloor CPU/MF is avail-

and epoxy floors for a high-quality floor-

able in trendy grey, beige, red and green

ing finish.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Mapefloor CPU/MF system is a three-component, self-levelling, polyurethane-cement formulate, designed as a protective coating for industrial floors made of concrete and cement terrazzo.

For more information: 011 552 8476 / info@mapei.co.za

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

FLOOR INSULATION

Speedheat, as the name implies,

screeded floor, and Speedheat placed

heating system is super-imposed, super-

is known to design fast, effi-

on top of the AcoustiCork. AcoustiCork

fast and super-efficient. Heat-up time is min-

is recommended in retrofit new flooring

imal, saving energy which in turn reduces

cient heating systems. In fact,

with heating. The total height increase will

your electricity bill at the end of the month.

Generation4 heating is minimal

AcoustiCork reduces heat-up time by 60%

quality heating products and expertise to

and with Generation4 heating is up to elev-

the floor heating industry for over 25 years,

en times faster than conventional systems!

with products that are manufactured under

four times faster than conventional floor heating.

E

affect your floor levels by less than 5mm.

KlimaBoard has a lower k value (better)

Speedheat franchises have been providing

the ISO 9000:2008 DQS and IQNET quality

than cork and heat-up is faster still. It is

management system. There is a 7-year war-

fficient electric floor heating systems

an oil-based product, but it is CFC- and

ranty on installed products and countrywide

are the cheapest to run. Modern,

HCFC-free and is super-light and strong.

support through the Speedheat franchise

cutting-edge technologies, installation

When used as an insulator it saves so much

system.

methods and insulation make Speedheat

energy that it is absolutely green-friendly.

Generation4 a most economic floor heating

KlimaBoard is available in thicknesses from

insulation was about 4,5 times faster than

solution. Speed is energy saving in heating

minimal 10mm up to 20mm. The thicker

in-slab systems (so-called “storage heating”)

calculations.

KlimaBoard offers a higher R value and less

such as water systems.

To optimise comfort and minimise energy

continuous heat loss. Heat-up time is quick-

Example: Speedheat and TileWarm without

That becomes up to eleven times faster

consumption you need a fast floor heating

er; wasting no energy and thereby showing

now with AcoustiCork, up to 36 times

system, while good insulation of your home

considerable savings on your electricity bill.

faster with KlimaBoard and up to 50 times

PrimaBoard is the top of the range, with a

faster with 25mm PrimaBoard. Not surpris-

tion “from the ground up” offers three solu-

30% better k value than KlimaBoard. A mini-

ing they install less power than any other

tions for floors.

mal 25mm thickness is recommended for

system and consume minimal energy (in

installation on total renovations or in new

line with the Eskom drive, while increasing

AcoustiCork, KlimaBoard (10mm and 20mm)

buildings. The R value of 25mm PrimaBoard

the WOW factor).

and PrimaBoard from 25mm onwards.

is 3,75 times that of a 10mm Klimaboard.

also prevents heat loss. Speedheat insula-

The Speedheat StopLoz range includes

AcoustiCork is natural, renewable and totally Green. The cork is glued onto the

58

New range

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

When you install Speedheat floor heating products on top of their insulation, your

For further information: 0800 11 22 15 / info@speedheat.co.za / www.speedheat.co.za

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

59

Feature Focus: Below the Sur face

WOOD FLOORS

Subfloor is critical

The substrate must fulfil a number of criteria to enable different types of wood floors to function for many years.

T

ered with a sheet material. When the floor is glued to sheets and concrete subfloors,

he criteria are as follows: When installing, the materials, substrate and site

A parquet floor must always be protected against moisture from the subfloor. For pro-

large areas can be installed without expansion joints.

must be heated to at least 18°C. The relative

tection against moisture (vapour barrier),

humidity in the premises must be lower

FloorworX recommends Combilay which

to the floor as the construction permits.

than 60%. The substrate must be clean,

conforms to the standards laid down by

This usually means it is placed under the

solid and dry and provided with the nec-

Kährs. The sheeting must be laid with an

intermediate layer. The sheeting is laid

essary protection against moisture. The

overlap of at least 200mm.

with an overlap of 200mm, minimum. With

subfloor must be sufficiently level. The

The underlay must always be clean and

A vapour barrier must be located as close

this overlap the joints need not be taped.

foam sheets must comply with the neces-

free from organic material such as wood

Applying coats of so-called damp-proofing

sary thickness tolerance and soft, springy

chips, scraps of paper, and so forth, before

agents can never replace a vapour barrier as

subfloors must be rectified. For example,

the vapour barrier is installed, otherwise

a protection against moisture penetration.

carpets with a thick pile must be removed.

the organic material will cause mould when

The air’s relative humidity (RH) should lie between 30–60%. If the RH is above 60%

When a vapour barrier is used with an

the RH under the sheeting subsequently

intermediate layer, the sheeting must

increases.

be placed under the intermediate layer.

the premises must be dehumidified. If it

A 60% RH is regarded as the upper limit

is below 30% there is a risk of concavity.

in suspended floor structures (such as con-

The temperature must be at least 18°C. It is

crete) before protection against moisture

important for parquet floors that the RH of

in the form of a vapour barrier normally

>95%, the damp-proof membrane can some-

the air is maintained within the specified

becomes necessary.

times be used for protection against moisture.

limits. Permanent damage can occur if the RH is too high.

Note that newly cast concrete floor structures are never sufficiently dry by the time a floor is installed, and a vapour barrier is therefore always needed.

A few months after the concrete is cast, the RH in the structural floor is usually <95% and moisture measurement is not

provided it is installed as instructed.

When installing on a floor surface with a RH

For maximum effectiveness, the construction must be mechanically ventilated.

To achieve a quiet and pleasant floor to walk on, some form of intermediate layer should always be installed between the substrate and the wood floor.

Where an impact sound insulation rating is required, the underlying construction is

obligatory for certain types of structural

crucial. It is interesting to note that floors

floors irrespective of age.

that are glued down do not improve impact

general requirements: a barrier is obligatory

sound insulation.

The intermediate layer is placed between

on ground-supported floors, crawl-space

the subfloor and the wood floor, and must

foundations and newly cast suspended

be installed edge-to-edge, with no overlaps.

floor structures.

When an intermediate layer is used with a

Concrete floors that were previously not

vapour barrier, the intermediate layer must

intended for parquet installation must usu-

be laid over the vapour barrier, which is then

ally be levelled, because a parquet floor

protected against abrasion and perforation.

requires a smoother substrate.

Lightweight concrete floor structures must

Substrates and moisture are two very important factors in wood floor installation

be fitted with a vapour barrier because of

and have a major impact on the end result.

the long drying-out time. If the RH in the

It is therefore important to know how mois-

substrate is over 95%, a plastic sheeting

ture affects wood floors and floor instal-

vapour barrier does not give sufficient pro-

lation and how to deal with the problem.

tection against moisture.

Potential difficulties can be avoided with a

For floating floors, uneven concrete floors must be levelled using Pavelite.

If the construction of glued-down floors

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Combilay is approved as a vapour barrier

normally necessary. A vapour barrier is

The following applies in addition to the

60

requires a vapour barrier, this must be cov-

little information and the right approach.

For further information: 011 406 4293/ 011 406 4294 / www.floorworx.co.za

intro Exterior flooring & paving The choices available for residential, commercial

remain. One needs to understand the world of pav-

or municipal paving in South Africa are extensive,

ing and what applications suit which installation

ranging from natural stone through block paving

methods. Concrete, clay and stone are some of the

to simulated stone and cobbles. Residential and

elements used to create a paving offering. In the

commercial applications will have different needs

next pages you will find what you are looking for

but in essence there are some basics that will

in paving options.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

61

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

PAVING & GRASS

Looks & performance

The choices available for residential, commercial or municipal paving in South Africa are extensive, ranging from natural stone through block paving to simulated stone and cobbles. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at the resi-

CMA

dential options first.

Poured Concrete

patio pavers are becoming a popular build-

One can install poured-in-place concrete for

ing material for constructing outdoor patios

patio paving, which costs much less than

and entertainment decks.

Concrete pavers cost less than brick and natural stone pavers because the cost of the raw materials to manufacture them is

pavers, but concrete slabs usually crack and

In fact, there are considerable benefits in

split in the short to medium term. The joints

the use of patio pavers: they are affordable;

much less.

between pavers eliminate cracking normally

easy to repair; exhibit excellent aesthetics

Clay Brick Pavers

associated with conventional asphalt and

and durability; require hardly any main-

Much of the appeal of clay brick lies in its

concrete pavements, so pavers are preferred

tenance; and are relatively easy to install.

earthy appearance and ability to blend into

for most applications.

Flexibility in design is another advantage.

any environment. As a natural product, it

Concrete Patio Pavers (wet cast)

62

has added to their popularity.

The versatility of patio pavers is due to the

Concrete pavers are the next alternative in

availability of their various shapes, colours

the patio paving cost spectrum. The cost

and sizes, which has led to their becoming

features inherent properties that withstand fluctuating temperatures.

Clay pavers are also slip- and skid-resistant

of patio pavers varies greatly because it

one of the most versatile paving materials

and wear well with repeated exposure to

depends on the quality of the paver mate-

available today. Additionally, the combina-

seasonal weather conditions, and become

rial, but there are many good reasons why

tion of slip resistance and attractive finishes

more attractive with time.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

Natural stone pavers People may look askance at the use of natural stone externally, but with the right stone selection and installation, and the correct aftercare, natural stone will enhance any garden or patio area.

However, with the higher temperatures experienced in South Africa it is advisable to avoid the dark natural stones â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly where people will be walking barefoot.

Black or the very dark stones will also need to be safeguarded against expansion in hot climates.

One of the most popular stones in these applications is travertine. Although used mainly for interiors, its application externally is increasing because of architectural preferences and its lower cost in relation to other natural stones, plus the fact that the coarseness of the texture is by nature anti-slip.

VAN DYK

Commercial/Municipal Applications Interlocking Concrete Block Pavements (dry cast) tion of concrete paving stones were first developed in Western Europe during the 1950s, and today they are used for a wide range of applications including malls, public forecourts, motorway on/off ramps, suburban streets (becoming increasingly popular for upgrading township roads due to their inherent labour intensivity, but also the

Caption intrinsic low maintenance requirement and

scale, texture, pattern, and a sense of direc-

longevity, no pot holes here!), driveways,

tion. It is often used for these reasons alone,

footpaths, and residential patios, parking

but its high-quality concrete surface also

areas, airports and container parks.

offers superior durability, skid, abrasion and scuffing resistance.

The two major advantages of concrete block paving are aesthetic appeal and high

Since a concrete block paving surface is composed of many small segments sepa-

strength. Interlocking paving has human

rated by fine joints filled with sand and compacted, it combines the virtues of a hard concrete surface with a degree of flexibility. Therefore, cracking of blocks is fairly rare and does not usually affect structural capacity. Any damage that does occur is localised and readily repaired, if required for aesthetic purposes.

On the other hand, compared with asphalt, concrete pavers are very hard and are highly resistant to damage by heavy concentrated loads such as that caused by cargo container corner castings, trailer support legs, and so forth.

These properties are appropriate in the most severe service conditions such as those found in freight depots, container parks and logging yards. Should re-laying BELGOTEX FLOORCOVERINGS

Modern techniques for precision produc-

become necessary in any areas, this is easily achieved and made without visible discontinuities, colour changes, textural or level differences to indicate where the work was done â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and it does not reduce the structural value of the pavement.

Interlocking paving does not require

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

63

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

obtain locally made concrete replicas of stone street cobbles which are not only

differences between PCBP pavers and con-

boarders at the same time! Made locally to

ventional paving blocks are also covered,

high standards, these are finding favour in

and advice is given on how to match PCBP

a wide range of residential, commercial and

systems to subgrade (ground) conditions.

Simulated stone slabs, tiles and propri-

suitable for ground with good permeability; partial infiltration for ground not capable of

popular use in South Africa.

absorbing all the water; and no infiltration,

Permeable paving

where the existing subgrade is poor or con-

Although there are some proprietary block

tains pollutants.

CBA

at any time and if necessary stopped at any stage. It can also be used immediately after laying. These features are of great convenience to both the home do-it yourselfer and in industrial situations, because the pavement construction can be easily phased in with other on-site operations.

Other paving materials Clay brick pavers: These are not affected by extreme weather conditions or ultra-violet light, and their rich, warm, earthy colours are due to the inherent properties of the clay material itself, with no artificial colourants used in their manufacture. Therefore the integrity of the clay is maintained, resulting in an enduring material that will not fade over time.

Quality clay brick pavers will withstand extremely high levels of loading, and can be used for any paving project. In residential applications they provide the advantage of being able to match drive and pathways to the original brick of the building.

The Clay Brick Association is committed to the production and supply of superior quality paving products. For more information visit www.claybrick.org or contact the Clay Brick Association directly at (011) 805 4206 to order copies of the Technical Handbooks on Rigid Segmental Clay Paving and Flexible Segmental Paving.

Simulated stone Naturally enough, it is now possible to

64

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

The last-mentioned allows for the complete

the seasonal instance of heavy rain expe-

capture of the water and uses an imperme-

rienced throughout South Africa has seen

able membrane placed on top of the sub-

increasing interest being taken in the use of

grade and up the sides of the permeable

permeable paving systems.

sub-base to form a storage tank. Outlet pipes

Heavy rain can cause flooding of hard

used. It can be laid in small or large areas

Three systems are covered: full infiltration,

etary embossed concrete tiles are also in

systems that incorporate a drainage system,

good supervision, unskilled labour can be

The underlying principles of PCBP and the

aesthetically pleasing, but deter the skate-

public area applications.

expensive construction plant and, with

is having on the environment.

are run through the impermeable mem-

areas such as roads, driveways and pave-

brane, and channel the water to other drain-

ments, and this type of paving allows

age devices, or the stored water is re-used

stormwater to run off in both volume and

for grey water systems and irrigation.

speed to our already strained storm water

This system is particularly suitable for

drainage systems. Permeable paving pre-

contaminated sites as pollutants cannot

vents damage and erosion happening,

be absorbed into the subgrade where they

which is very harmful to the environment,

could pollute the ground water, in fact

by storing the water flow beneath it and

microbes can be introduced just below the

either filtering it back into the earth or stor-

pavers via a geofabric which capture oil

ing it and releasing it later into the storm

particles and physically eat them up!. Other

water system.

aspects covered by the brochure include

Therefore, if more contractors and homeowners start to use permeable pavers for

water quality and the removal of pollutants, service life and maintenance.

driveways, pavements, public grounds and

The brochure can be downloaded at no

parking lots, it would help to preserve our

charge from the CMA’s website, www.cma.

environment, natural resources and the

org.za. Simply click on ‘Publications’ and fol-

quality of our water runoff supplies.

low the prompts. Alternatively, hard copy

It is interesting to note that one system

versions are available from the CMA, also at

that is popular overseas comprises a layer

no charge. Contact Pam Zukor on (011) 805-

of solid concrete pavers separated by joints

6742 or on main.cma@gmail.com.

filled with small stones. Water enters the

Artificial grass

joints between the pavers and through an

Finally, although not exactly paving, artifi-

‘open-graded’ base of crushed stone layers

cial grass is certainly becoming a force to be

with no fine particles.

reckoned with in the ‘outdoor floor’ market.

The void spaces among the crushed stones

Imported and locally manufactured, several

store water and infiltrate it back into the soil

varieties of ‘turf’ carpet are available and

subgrade. The stones in the joints provide

now being used extensively for both resi-

permeability, and the base filters the storm-

dential and commercial applications.

water and helps to reduce pollutants.

The Concrete Manufacturers Association

Artificial grass provides an instant lawn or playing surface that looks good whatever

(CMA) has published a brochure on per-

the season; needs no watering, fertilising,

meable concrete block paving (PCBP), the

weeding or cutting; and solves the problem

green alternative to conventional concrete

of those awkward areas underneath trees.

block paving (CBP). Its primary objective

Constructed out of durable, tufted poly-

is to assist landscape designers, property

ethylene yarn, artificial grass feels and per-

developers, as well as planning, building

forms like a normal grass surface, without

control and adoption officers to better

all the hassles of its upkeep, and enhances

understand PCBP and the positive impact it

the exterior of any building.

Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : H i g h Tr a f f i c A r e a s

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

65

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

DECKING

To expand your lifestyle

If there is one country that can really boast an equable climate, it must be South Africa with its blue skies, warm and sunny summers, and relatively pleasant winter days, so it is no wonder that homeowners and commercial ventures that can make use of the open air are increasingly looking towards decking to

ENVIRODECK

enhance the outdoor living experience at relatively low cost.

A 66

deck is a popular home improve-

should be carefully considered and should

will be living with your design for a long

ment that not only adds to the

include the features that match your life-

time, but because it is a structural feature

value of the property, but provides a focal

style and complement the design of your

and you will be living on it, it must follow

point for enjoying the outdoors. However,

house. Planning is the most important part

strict safety building practices..

the design elements that go into the deck

of building a deck, not only because you

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

There are several main considerations

FLOWCRETE

SHUTTERSTOCK

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

The climate in the area and the views from the deck are major factors to consider when deciding where to place the deck. A northside deck will probably be the coolest location.

Southern or western orientations may be too warm in the middle of the summer, unless an overhead screen is included or the deck is built around an existing shade tree. when planning a deck that are applicable to any project. Whether for a small residence

design elements will be based on those kinds of preferences.

The size and orientation of the property

According to the experts, the most common mistake people make is building a deck that is too small. The difference in cost

and the building limit you to one or two

between a deck that is a little too small and

deck locations. The climate in the area and

one that is the right size usually isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that

the views from the deck are major factors

much, so make sure you have room to move

to consider when deciding where to place

and relax on your new deck.

the deck. A north-side deck will probably be

Although it is historically the original and

the coolest location. Southern or western

most popular choice, wood is not the only

orientations may be too warm in the middle

decking material available. In a nutshell, the

of the summer, unless an overhead screen

options available include weather-resistant

is included or the deck is built around an

woods; pressure-treated wood which is

existing shade tree.

basically treated lumber that contains wood

You may be able to avoid prevailing winds

and preservatives; hardwoods; composite

by locating your deck where the building

decking, which is made of recycled plastic

will provide some protection. Likewise,

and wood fibre; and other alternatives such

careful placement can minimise traffic

as plastic and aluminium, which frequently

noise, eliminate unwanted views or provide

use recycled products.

additional privacy. If you plan to include a

Composite decking is best described as a

hot tub or swimming pool in your plans, pri-

factory-produced semi-synthetic decking

vacy considerations for you and your guests

solution which combines wood particles

may be very important.

(often simply sawdust) with various types of

Before deciding on the location of the

plastic, the most common being the high-

or the exterior of a large hotel, the most

deck, check with the local by-laws. They

density polyethylene plastic that is recycled

important consideration in deck design is

may limit the overall deck size, the height

from cooldrink bottles.

how it will be used. Do you entertain fre-

of any privacy screens and the minimum

Apart from full composite decking boards

quently and, if so, how large a group will

distance from the deck to the edge of the

there is also a new product being released

you need space for? What kind of seating

property.

into the market and this is a composite

will be needed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; would you or your guests

Also, check with the local building depart-

paint coating. This product caters to hom-

be more comfortable on built-in benches

ment to find out whether a building permit

eowners who enjoy the ease and limited

or patio furniture? Do you want the space

is required and what kind of plans need to

maintenance of composite, or who already

arranged to accommodate conversations

be submitted. Finally, be sure to check with

have a wooden deck that needs to be

between small groups or in one large com-

the local utility companies to make sure the

revamped. This product is just painted over

mon area? Will you need adequate lighting

installation doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall foul of utility rights-

and seals the wood for a lasting effect. It

to entertain at night? The answers to these

of-way and the location of buried pipes and

is also easy to apply with a limitless colour

questions are all-important, because most

utility lines.

spectrum as it easily mixes with Acrylic

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

67

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

paint of your choice.

Car Parking Decks The choices available for car parking decks are legion, and include epoxy-modified polymer and polyurethane systems, or the ubiquitous precast concrete in addition to poured concrete or asphalt.

These latter materials are still prevalent for exterior parking applications although, if used for rooftop parking, the roof will need to undergo considerable waterproofing to maintain the integrity of the parking area.

The more modern materials can find application for outdoor parking, but it is on interior applications that they really excel by providing environmentally friendly and colourful coatings to meet any design requirement.

They will also solve many of the inherent problems with car parking by reducing tyre squeal, providing resistance to diesel fuel and petrol, producing an anti-slip surface, and even assisting with the common â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dinginessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; problem of interior car parks by providing a high reflection of light.

Modified polymer emulsion deckings are often mixed with crushed stone chippings to provide a built-up, two-layer finish with a total thickness of around 5-8mm. The colour of the finish depends on what it is mixed with, which can include stone chippings and colouring agents.

Precast concrete decking is made of precast hollow-core concrete slabs that are supported by steel beams. However, because the concrete slabs are quite thick and they sit on top of fairly large steel beams, the floor ends up deep, a distinct disadvantage on multiBEDSON FLOORING & DECOR

storey car parks where ramps are

68

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

needed.

Also, because of the differences in expansion rates between concrete and steel, the waterproofing and screeding often ends up with cracks. Construction depth can be saved using shelf angles but these

ENVIRODECK

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

are costly and time-consuming.

Normally they are placed on top of the main beams, which makes the construction depth bigger than other car park decking methods.

provide a suitable car park flooring surface â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

beams, and this decking can be white enam-

and to smooth transitions and provide skid

elled or coated on the underside to make the

resistance.

car park light and bright.

In multi-storey car parks the most usual

So, residential or commercial, any decking

Also, the planks themselves are thicker than

form of decking is a reinforced concrete slab

requirement can be met with a variety of

the in situ deck, and may mean having more

on lost formwork. The galvanised steel frames

different options â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the South African

closely spaced main beams.

span across the car park, with galvanised steel

flooring industry is available with the solu-

joists at fairly close centres between them.

tions, expertise and workmanship standards

Precast planks can be placed over the whole car park deck and ramps. After placing the precast planks the surface is screeded to

Galvanised steel decking is laid across the joists, usually at a level just below the main

to meet the needs of the most discerning of clients.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

69

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

INTERLOCKING TILES For ground reinforcement

NEW

Paving manual

Grass and ground reinforcement is necessary in many outdoor applications such as car parks, caravan parks, access roads, golf courses, glider and light aircraft runways, pedestrian walkways and school car parks, and this is where the ST Soil Stabilisation Tile distributed by Tuff Floors can solve the problem.

T

he ST tiles have a specialised interlocking system and cavities within the tile that hold the soil in place and protect the grass

roots. These tiles give the soil the support needed when heavy loads are rolled over them, such as cars. They are easy to install, durable and cost-effective, and anyone wishing to know more can contact Tuff Floors, details shown below.

Further information:

011 873 1292/ 4674 / info@tuffloors.co.za / www.tuffloors.co.za

Interpave, the Precast Concrete Paving & Kerb Association of the UK, has recently published Manual for Streets 2 – Wider Application of the

Principles (MfS2), which is set to have a major impact on the design of new and upgraded roads and other public spaces. It also opens up new opportunities for precast concrete paving in realising its key principles.

I

n essence, MfS2 endorses the aims of the original Manual for Streets and widens their scope. Intended as guidelines for all those

involved in any aspect of designing streets, the original 2007 Manual replaced the 30-year old Design Bulletin 32 and focused on residential and other lightly trafficked streets.

Its central aim is to create attractive, safe and well-designed residential environments. It sets out a “manifesto for better design, streets and communities” – not detailed design guidance – and UK local authorities are strongly recommended to review their standards and guidance to embrace the principles of MfS2.

Anyone interested in knowing more, or in downloading the free manual, should visit the website www.paving.org.uk Pave-It (July 2011 issue)

70

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

DECORATIVE CONCRETE

Complete flooring solution

The choice of appearance for

driveways, paths and patios has been transformed from minimal to virtually unlimited with the introduction of Artevia decorative concretes from Lafarge Readymix. Well known for the quality of its products, Lafarge has extended its service to include placing and finishing.

“W

tive concrete made with aggregates that have been selected for their aesthetic quality.

problems associated with traditional paving.

Lafarge Readymix remind their custom-

During the finishing process, they are exposed

ers and applicators that entries for their

e want to ensure that the end-user

and brought into relief by washing out the

second exciting annual Decorative Concrete

of Artevia enjoys its full poten-

surface layer of paste to leave the natural

Competition close on 24 February 2012 and

beauty of the aggregates highlighted.

winners will be invited to an awards cer-

tial,” says Lafarge’s Neville Wearne, National Marketing Manager for Readymix. “With the

The remarkable combination of beauty

product’s wide choice of textures, colours

and robustness that Artevia Exposed offers

emony in April.

The competition, created in partnership

and patterns, Artevia Exposed is a particu-

makes it an ideal solution for high-traffic areas

with Chryso Southern Africa and Lanxess,

larly popular choice for creating attractive,

in public parklands and terraces, where it is

showcases the excellence of projects using

durable, non-skid exterior surfaces. To maxi-

a cost-effective alternative to conventional

Lafarge Artevia Decorative Concretes in

mise the aesthetic appeal, we will add the

products such as paving and asphalt. Also, the

South Africa.

finishing touch.”

extremely low-maintenance, slip-resistant sur-

Artevia Exposed is a hardwearing decora-

face is not subject to the sinking or heaving

For further information: 011 657 0000 / 083 656 8586 / artevia.competition@lafarge.com

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

71

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

TIMBER DECKING Adding value & aesthetic appeal Timber decking will enhance the aesthetic appeal of any home, garden or building and patio decking and sundecks are regularly seen in hotel premises, entertainment centres, pleasure resorts and game lodges. A natural product in harmony with the environment, decking lends itself to a tremendous variety of forms and styles – all of which bring added beauty and value to any building or landscape.

provided in a contemporary or traditional design to suit any individual taste or budget.

A deck is best described as a flat surface capable of supporting weight, similar to a floor, but typically constructed outdoors and often, but not always, connected to a building. A deck of a house is generally a wooden platform built above the ground and connected to the main building.

It is usually enclosed by a balustrade for safety, with access direct from the house or from the ground via a stairway. Decks can also be built to incorporate elements such as planters, seats, storage, ponds, sandpits for children, and jacuzzis – or even pools, pavilions, sheds or conservatories.

The key factor in selecting wood for use outside is durability – especially its ability to resist the conditions that give rise to decay and wear and tear. Most species of hardwoods have a natural ability to resist wear and tear completely, while softwoods have varying degrees of natural durability and almost always require treatment.

In general, best practice suggests that only quality timbers capable of providing a minimum life of fifteen years should be used. This

Good timber decking looks stylish, blends well with the environment, and will last a lifetime.

classified as being naturally “very durable”

his is especially so in South Africa, where

T

logging taking place to produce these

ing factor, a softwood species that has been

the year-round climate makes a timber

woods, especially teak, mahogany and ipe,

industrially treated with a wood preservative.

deck an ideal extension of one’s lifestyle.

is occurring illegally, as outlined in numer-

Timber decking provides versatility and

ous reports by environmental organisations

superior grains of hardwoods – especially

beauty by blending the warmth of wood

such as Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth and

the exotic South American hardwoods –

with the natural surroundings of a garden.

Rainforest Relief, so it pays to deal with a

add greatly to their appeal, and are more

reputable supplier such as Bedson Timbers.

appropriate where cost is not the only con-

By creating a way to transform an outside space, providing a comfortable leisure area,

Bedson’s company-owned forests in

maximising the use of a social area, or ensur-

Uruguay provide the company with the

or “durable”, or, if initial cost is the overrid-

However, the rich attractive colours and

sideration.

Naturally durable hardwoods are usually

ing a seamless transition between indoor

flexibility and reliability of having access to

higher in density than softwood and their

and outdoor living, it is no surprise that tim-

established strategic resources to consis-

impact, abrasion and insect resistant proper-

ber decking has become a popular addition

tently supply its markets.

ties are reasons why they are ideal for either

to many South African homes – transforming

This assists an increasing demand for

bland outside spaces into practical and styl-

Bedson products and the investment forms

ish outdoor rooms.

part of a 300-year sustainable project, with

Decking blends with all types of garden

upmarket residential projects or commercial projects that have a lot of heavy use.

In South Africa, Bedson Flooring &

the planting and harvesting carried out in

Decking is a leading supplier of high-quality

and building designs and can be tailored to

strict accordance with Forestry Stewardship

solid timber products. Servicing the needs

suit all sizes and budgets, from large, elevat-

Council principles to preserve bio-diversity

of architects, designers and developers

ed decks, boardwalks, free-standing islands

and ensure sustainability.

alike, Bedson specialises in the import, pro-

to small, intimate decks for a townhouse

Good timber decking looks stylish, blends

cessing and distribution of exotic African

patio. A deck can be installed at ground level

well with the environment and will last a

and unique American and South American

or, preferably for a true deck effect, in an

lifetime. It can be painted, stained or left

hardwood timbers and value-added prod-

elevated position – especially when it runs

to weather naturally. In addition, because

ucts such as decking.

off the back of a house,

timber is so versatile and easy to work with,

Generally, hardwoods used for decking come from tropical forests. Much of the

72

means selecting a hardwood species that is

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

For more information: Head Office 012 803

practically any shape, size, colour or style

4376 / KZN 031 736 1022 / 0861 BEDSON /

of deck is possible, which means it can be

www.bedsonflooring.co.za

Fe a t u r e Fo c u s : H i g h Tr a f f i c A r e a s

Feature Focus: Ex terior Flooring & Paving

MANUFACTURING FACILITY In India Flowcrete, the specialist flooring company, has launched its first manufacturing facility in India, a move that is set to transform the business landscape for the firm’s Indian clients, applicators and suppliers alike.

L

ocated in Chennai, the plant will enable Flowcrete to significantly

reduce lead times to customers and also reduce the impact on the environment by Flowcrete operations director Dave Kelly

using locally available raw materials.

Flowcrete international managing director Craig Brookes said, “The huge potential and vast scale of the Indian market are two of the main factors behind our decision to bring our manufacturing operations nearer to our customers in this dynamic region.

The availability of good raw materials locally and access to excellent personnel were

Demand on the Chennai facility has already multiplied to the extent that we are looking to add another modular plant adjacent to the current site.

says, “Demand on the Chennai facility has

material for these projects was supplied

in 2009, Flowcrete India has already built

based products are being manufactured at the plant including the self-smoothing

from the new Chennai facility.

up an impressive track record with flooring

adjacent to the current site. This will house a filler plant and allow for additional resin production and warehousing space.” This capacity is scheduled to be streamed in by mid-2012.

At the same time, Flowcrete has been able

installations carried out at the landmark

Flowshield SL, Flowcoat SF41 and HS,

to use the new plant to increase the volume

Imperial Towers residential development in

Deckshield, the watertight car-park decking

of resin being supplied to its existing net-

Mumbai and for leading global companies

system and Flowshield LXP.

work of applicators.

such as Unilever.

The latest product to be added to the

As Flowcrete India director Vivekanandan

Located in a busy industrial area popu-

range is the polyurethane (PU) concrete

Margasahayam highlights, “The plant is

lated by leading automotive and auto-ancil-

antimicrobial Flowfresh, making Flowcrete

already making a world of difference and

lary manufacturers, the purpose-built plant

the only company in India with PU concrete

the business outlook for Flowcrete India has

was set up on a modular basis. The plant is

as part of its locally manufactured portfolio.

been transformed.”

managed by Sudhir Aikkaraparampil who

A number of prestigious projects have

“Our customers are delighted that they

has a degree in chemistry and 15 years’

already been secured on the strength of

now have a reliable source of quality floor-

manufacturing experience gained with

the local facility and its ability to reduce

ing systems from a local manufacturer on

prestigious manufacturing companies in

lead times for delivery. Some 15 000m²

their doorstep. They also have immediate

India and, most recently, Saudi Arabia.

of Deckshield ID car-park decking system

access to qualified technical resources for

have been supplied to Kanakia Builders of

advice on choosing the best flooring solu-

using the latest equipment is in place at the

Mumbai, with delivery made within 15 days

tions for their projects.”

facility. Additional support to the Chennai

of the order being placed.

74

are looking to add another modular plant

Since first setting up an office in-country

other key indicators supporting this move.”

A range of the firm’s seamless resin-

already multiplied to the extent that we

Current production capacity at the plant

A fully operational quality control laboratory

plant is provided by Flowcrete’s regional

Other large projects secured include

is 9 000 tonnes per annum, with expansion

headquarters in Malaysia which features a

work for Hilton Hotels Chennai, Godfrey

plans set to bring capacity to 21 000 tonnes

large research and development facility.

Phillips Mumbai, Fourrts (India) Laboratories

per annum within the next six to nine

Chennai and Reid & Taylor Bangalore. All

months.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

For further information: 031 461 3411 / southafrica@flowcrete.com

Flooring Equipment Although every type of floorcovering requires the

isfactory. Naturally, some of the equipment will

use of its own unique tools, the three main opera-

be used universally for many types of floorcover-

tions involved are the same: preparation, installa-

ing, particularly the glued-down varieties such as

tion, and maintenance. Without the use of proper

carpet, vinyl tile and sheeting, and other resilient

tools, each of these operations will become an

floorcoverings, but others may need specialised

impossible task, and the end result will be unsat-

equipment.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

75

Feature Focus: Flooring Equipment

FLOORING EQUIPMENT Use the right tools

ment before any new floorcovering is applied.

Carpet and carpet tile Removal The removal of broadloom or carpet tiles is a

Although every type of floorcovering requires the use of its own

very similar operation in either case, and there

unique tools, the three main operations involved are the same: prepa-

is a wide variety of tools that can be used,

ration, installation, and maintenance.

Smaller carpet removal jobs – done manually

W

ithout the use of proper tools, each

ing, and other resilient floorcoverings, but

of these operations will become

others may need specialised equipment.

an impossible task, and the end result will be

depending on the size of the area involved.

Removing carpet manually can be difficult and tedious but sometimes, due to cost or the size of the area, this may be the most

One point worth mentioning is that this

appropriate solution. To do this efficiently

unsatisfactory. Naturally, some of the equip-

article is only concerned with tools so, for

ment will be used universally for many types

instance, at the preparation stage which con-

of floorcovering, particularly the glued-down

cerns the removal of old flooring materials,

varieties such as carpet, vinyl tile and sheet-

the subfloor may need some repair or replace-

and correctly some specific tools are needed.

They include a carpet knife, hook knife, metal clamps, hammer, moulding bar, channel locks or pliers, floor scraper, broom and dustpan.

Carpet knives are used to cut up the old carpet so it can be easily removed from the job site. There is a double-sided razor knife that is made for carpet use which facilitates cutting through the rough, hard carpet backing.

Hook Knife: A hook knife can be used to pry up the edges of the carpet, remove staples, and scrape small debris from the floor.

Metal Clamps: These are designed specifically to grab old carpet when pulling it up – particularly useful when removing glueddown carpet.

Hammer: Used to knock down staples and to remove tack strip.

Moulding Bar: A moulding bar is used to remove moulding on the edges of the carpet. This can also be used to pull staples out of the floor.

Channel locks or pliers: These are especially helpful when removing staples from the old flooring.

Floor scrapers: Used to scrape old carpet, glue and objects off the floors. A large scraper with a minimum 150mm blade and long handle is preferred, although a small one with a short handle will do when it’s not necessary to use a big one or where there are tight spaces.

Broom and Dustpan or Vacuum Cleaner: These are important to have at all job sites, used to clean up the remaining bits and pieces on the floor after main removal has been completed.

FLOORWORX

Removal of carpet on large areas

76

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

In the USA and Europe walk-behind or ride-on scrapers are used extensively for the removal of carpet over large areas, but this is not the

Feature Focus: Flooring Equipment

case in this country, where even the largest of

hand tools, depending on the extent of the

factory finish to the planks, which dispenses

removal projects are still done manually, using

job required.

with the need for stains, oils and other finish-

hand tools. Apart from the availability of local

The tools involved include hammers, chisels,

es but, whether these traditional finishes are

labour, the imported cost of these machines

leverage tools and scrapers. In some cases,

used or not, the floor may need some renova-

is prohibitive.

even a saw is applied. The basic approach is

tion after a considerable number of years,

Installation of carpet

to get the wood panels involved removed or

depending on the traffic it accommodates.

The specialist tools needed for carpet instal-

separated from the base floor. For small jobs,

To achieve a perfect finish, the use of quality

lation are: knee kickers; tack strips; stair tools;

the tools usually include a crowbar, a claw

drum or belt sanders is required.

and carpet stretchers, sometimes called

hammer, a hand-size sledge hammer and a

power stretchers. The knee kicker performs

cold chisel.

a carpet-stretching function that the larger

For larger jobs, a small circular saw can be

A new maintenance programme recently launched in South Africa obviates the need to sand in many instances – in particular on

power stretcher does not, and vice versa. Also,

applied to cut seams into the wood panels to

floors that have already reached their sanding

carpet stretchers aren’t just for installing new

get access to the subflooring, but care must

limit, engineered floors that cannot be sanded

carpet. If the carpet is old, wrinkled, and ‘bub-

be taken because if the blade is sunk too far

because of veneer thickness or texture, even

bled-up’, a power stretcher can often smooth

in it will start cutting the subflooring. Once a

laminate floors.

down and “revive” the carpet, extending its life

reasonable area has been uplifted, a full-size

by several months, even years.

floor scraper can be used, preferably with a

remove all previous waxes, oils and grime and

carbon blade. On particularly resistant areas

then rebuilding the floor surface with up to

pet on stairs and small areas, including clos-

the sledgehammer can be used in conjunc-

four sealant coats, at the same time adding

ets, and also used to position carpet in larger

tion with the chisel.

colour to the floor if required.

A knee kicker is a tool used for installing car-

areas. In a normal four-corner room, a knee

This uses a unique cleaning process to

Removing the wood will not usually leave a

kicker takes up the excess sag from the carpet

clean subfloor surface, so a scraper should be

in the centre of the room. An installer will use

used to remove the last of the glue.

a knee kicker to pull the carpet toward the

Installation

edge of the room and then hook it onto a

Currently, the accent is on the provision of

tack strip.

engineered wood floors rather than tradi-

The tack strip comprises a long piece of

tional solid planks, but either can be installed

wood with multiple carpet tacks protruding

as a tongue-and-groove application or, more

upwards from it that is nailed around the

prevalently, as a floating floor using the

edges of the room. The carpet is stretched

ubiquitous click fixing system. Bamboo floors

over the tacks so that they catch in its backing

require the same installation and mainte-

material and hold it in place.

nance as wood floors.

. . . the floor may need some renovation after a considerable number of years, depending on the traffic it accommodates.

To achieve a perfect finish, the use of quality drum or belt sanders is required.

The edge, after being trimmed of excess, is

The installation tools required include

tucked between the strip and the baseboard,

trowels (for the repair or smoothing of the

usually with a putty knife, or a similar stair

subfloor); a hygrometer to ensure that the

tool. After using the carpet stretcher, the

moisture level is acceptable; floor mitre

installer will go back down each wall again

saws (depending on the width of the plank);

Tramex. Protimeter or New Caisson Meter; a

with the knee kicker.

jigsaws for irregular shapes; toe kick saw for

hand mitre saw; a contact Sealant gun; vari-

removing underlayer from area adjoining

ous colour sealants of good quality; a few

the carpeting smooth and wrinkle-free in the

walls; nailers and staplers; and routers for re-

bags of screed are and will always be needed

future. Where it is needed to connect two

grooving or the introduction of inlays.

to repair floors. A vacuum cleaner is a must.

The use of a power stretcher helps keep

NOTE: The following tools are common to both wood and laminates installation: The relevant saws; moisture meters – either

Also on the market are select elastic, self-

Most important are eye goggles, dust masks

Maintenance

adhesive underlays that provide a moisture

and protective covers over all high speed cut-

The tool required for the care of carpets is

barrier and the required fixing of the flooring.

ting blades.

pieces of carpet together, a seam iron is used.

Finally, not exactly a ‘tool’ (although some

Where possible a combination nail gun with

All entrances, or where busy kitchens (as

light sanding may be required before appli-

compressor to install quarter rounds and skirt-

found in restaurants) abut the carpeted area,

cation), but a polymer-based refinishing

ings should be used for a perfect finish.

will greatly benefit from the use of dirt-trap

process for the renewal treatment of wood,

Laminates

mats.

laminates, resilient floorcoverings and some

The installation or removal of a laminate floor

Wood

stone is now being marketed in South Africa,

is similar to that of wood, which means that

Removal

which – according to the manufacturer – dis-

almost the same basic tools and preparation

Removing glued-down wood flooring or wall

penses with the need for any other surface

are required.

panels requires basic brute force, but there

treatment to restore the flooring’s original

are a few tools available that meet the need.

aesthetic appeal.

be installed on such as an underlayer, barrier

There is no specific wonder tool. Instead the

Maintenance

sheeting, adhesive, polyethylene tape; quar-

job is frequently performed with a variety of

These days wood floors often come with a

ter-round moulding, baseboard or wall base,

simply a good vacuum cleaner, used regularly.

Apart from the materials that the floor is to

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

77

Feature Focus: Flooring Equipment

end moulding, threshold (and other transitions),

makes it harder to remove than resilient

material, for instance for complete floor

and stair nosing – depending on how the floor-

floorcoverings but, once again, although

renovation (production halls, factories,

ing is to be fitted – laminate floors are now

the USA and European contractors would

farms, parking lots) on upper floor levels or

mostly provided with the ‘click’ system of joining

use air-powered spud bars, or walk-behind,

underground.

planks together, and the preferred method is to

ride-on and self-propelled strippers and

install as a floating floor.

scrapers to remove the old tiles, in this

that does not generate any vibration and

country any stripping of tiles is often

helps to simultaneously remove old coatings

bar, utility knife, hammer, carpenter’s square,

regarded as a manual, labour-intensive

and level the floor, and is also used exten-

router, drill and saws.

‘hammer and chisel’ operation, although

sively in the polishing of concrete floors.

Maintenance

high quality machinery is available (see

Dust collecting systems are especially

Laminate floorcoverings are very easy to keep

Resilient tiles/sheeting removal above).

designed to work indoor and outdoor, on

clean by brushing, vacuum cleaning or damp

Installation

the most uneven surfaces and in the most

cleaning, on a regular basis. Planks can be

Generally the subfloor does not need any

confined areas.

replaced if damaged, but the surface must not

special treatment to accept ceramic tiles, so

Installation

be sanded or over-coated with other finishes.

– providing it is structurally sound and not

Where aesthetics are not important, a trow-

Resilient tiles or sheeting

in need of repair – thinset is used to fix the

elled concrete floor is the most common

Removal

tiles directly to the subfloor, using a thinset

solution, often with aggregate added to

This, once again, is an arduous, labour-inten-

trowel. Tile cutters and nippers are used to

provide extra strength to the surface.

sive operation, with machinery available but

cut and trim the tiles to shape or size where

rarely used locally for the removal of resilient

needed. Grout tools are also available.

urethane, and encapsulated aggregate floors

sheet or tiles, even though specialised, high-

Maintenance

has seen this type of floorcovering being used

quality ride-on, walk-behind or ‘push’ scrapers

Like any other hard floorcovering, ceramic

in applications where high wear, hygiene and

are available.

and porcelain tiles require the minimum of

chemical resistance is required, through to

Installation

maintenance – daily sweeping or vacuum-

custom-designed floors for the most presti-

The smoothness of the subfloor is critical with

ing and a regular mopping with clean water

gious of venues, in addition to which polished

the installation of resilient floorcoverings,

will keep them looking good for a lifetime.

concrete floors are continually gaining popu-

and the way to ensure a perfect subfloor is by

Because the tiles are in effect individual

larity with architects and designers.

using a quality self-levelling screed.

units, replacing them if they become dam-

Tools required include a tapping block, pull

However, the advent of modern epoxy, poly-

A variety of hand tools are available for

aged is a relatively easy task.

the successful installation of epoxy floors,

importance, which means that a hygrometer

Industrial floors

including rake trowels with teeth of differ-

or other moisture-testing equipment must be

Depending upon the type of job that has

ent dimensions used to spread the epoxy

used to ensure the manufacturer’s require-

to be performed, the different techniques

mixture over a surface; floats with adjust-

ments are being met.

available will either complement or work

able spikes for spreading a specific epoxy

individually, in order to fulfil two most

mixture over a surface; floats with rubber

trowel for the spreading of adhesive; a heat

important steps: the efficient removal of old

squeegee for spreading epoxy colours and

gun and seam sealer for sheet materials; and

floor materials, and ensuring perfect adher-

epoxy sealers before using a cotton roller;

a flooring roller to ensure perfect adhesion to

ence of the new floor coating.

plastic spike rollers to squeeze out the air

Moisture levels are also of paramount

Other tools required include a notched

the substrate.

As probably the most mechanised sector

from the epoxy mixture and level the laid

of the flooring industry, industrial floors

mixture, metal spike rollers to squeeze out

use machinery that is purpose-designed to

the air from an epoxy mixture containing a

is a truly specialist installation requiring the

provide fast and easy implementation, par-

greater quantity of quartz sand and to level

use of gas equipment for seam welding and

ticularly for projects where there is limited

the laid mixture; and some people recom-

heavy-duty rollers.

downtime in the premises; or that need to

mend walking boots with spikes to wear

Maintenance

comply with stringent health and safety

while laying some kinds of epoxy floors.

Most modern resilient floorcoverings are pro-

regulations; or that have special require-

vided with a factory finish, in which case the

ments based upon the final use of the

tion, installation and maintenance of indus-

need for sealing, polish or waxing falls away.

premises (e.g. anti-static, water- or oil-proof,

trial flooring of all descriptions are not DIY

Basically, all that is needed to maintain the

non-porous and seamless floors).

jobs, and care should be taken to employ the

good looks of resilient floorcovering is daily

Surface Preparation

services of a skilled contractor in each case.

sweeping or vacuuming, and regular mop-

Shot blasting machines are especially

ping with clean water – but never flood the

designed for the removal and preparation

following for information provided in the compila-

floor with water.

of most floors (industrial or commercial

tion of this article: www.blastrac.com; Brandon

Ceramic & porcelain tiles

buildings, parking lots, swimming pools,

Park, Kevin Bates Flooring; Richard Bentley, Mr

Removal

steel, and so forth).

Sandless; Peter Geyer, SAWLFA; Fred le Roux,

However, the installation of sheet floorcoverings such as linoleum and others

Ceramic tile uses thinset (a cement mortar) instead of glue to stick to the floor, which

78

Grinding is a technique with diamond discs

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

Scarifying is a more general-purpose technique, meant for a deeper removal of

The uplifting, renovation, surface prepara-

Acknowledgement and thanks are given to the

Johnroux Builders & Construction; Roy Sinclair, FloorworX; Michael Clatworthy, Indufloor.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

79

Feature Focus: Flooring Equipment

NEW Auto-Scrubber Numatic South Africa, the local subsidiary of

another classic where good manoeuvrability is totally essential.

the giant Numatic International, is launching

outset as one fact will always ring true: Get the specification

a new auto-scrubber which is claimed to be

right at the beginning and you will achieve the correct results

the best in its class.

For more information: 0861 NUMATIC (686 284)

T

Full and careful consideration must always be given at the

at the end. www.numatic.co.za

he Numatic TwinTec Vario (TTV) 5565 represents the optimum walk-behind traction auto-scrubber with a range of advanced

features from which the machine gets its name – being variable enough to ensure that it can be set to operate at either a 55cm or 65cm scrubbing width with a no-tools adjustment and a simple brush change, providing two machine choices in one.

In the 65cm mode the scrubbing head is automatically expanded to a practical offset operating mode, providing a 100mm head extension to the right hand side. This simple arrangement allows improved edge cleaning, especially useful in aisles with racking or other obstructions.

In normal operation the machine delivers a constant 40kg of brush pressure, but to this Numatic has added a heavy-duty spot cleaning feature, allowing the operator to select a 50kg override setting at any time should it be required.

In normal operation the machine delivers a constant 40kg of brush pressure, but to this Numatic has added a heavy-duty spot cleaning feature, allowing the operator to select a 50kg override setting at any time should it be required.

Add this to the exceptional cleaning performance, low noise and excellent manoeuvrability and you have a machine designed to deliver satisfaction on all counts.

The operator controls are a separate feature in their own right with independent selection of speed, water flow and chemical dosing all built into the basic unit, all of which can be set to provide total convenience and consistency of operation.

Beneath the hinged dirty water tank sits the operating heart of the Vario with its 200Ahr gel battery and charging system, highperformance suction unit and NuChem dosing facility – all easily accessible.

The walk-behind Vario is a machine that has been designed to provide outstanding performance in areas and applications where bigger machines are just not practical.

Just think of supermarkets for example – long aisles, numerous obstructions, plenty of turning and tight corners. Or hospitals with their long, long corridors – one minute you are in big, yet congested spaces, the next minute, narrow walkways. Car showrooms are

80

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

The walk-behind TwinTec Vario (TTV) 5565

Feature Focus: Flooring Equipment

SPECIALISED

Tile cutters

Specialised tile flooring installation requires specialised tile cutters, and the Sigma range of tile cutters marketed in South African by Falcon Tiling is worldfamous for reliability, quality and precise cutting.

Falcon Tiling Products specialise in a wide variety of products focusing mainly on the Tiling and Flooring sector of the market.

We supply top quality products to the DIY and Professional market, and we have a full range of Tiling Tools, Tiling Profiles and Mosaic Tiles.

Tiling Tools

W

Tiling Profiles hen a specialised floor tile application is required, the fin-

Mosaic Tiles

ish is of paramount importance, and level, accurate tiling

requires a specialised tile cutter.

Sigma tile cutters are provided with a three-year warranty with spares backup from Falcon Tiling. These professional tile cutters ensure accurate cutting while being robust, thus giving a long working life.

Since 1964, the Italian-based Sigma has been specialising in construction machinery and equipment for processing and laying of ceramic and porcelain tiles (in particular tile cutters for the manual

GAUTENG Tel: 011 849 6651

PORT ELIZABETH Tel: 083 534 2826

KWAZULU NATAL Tel: 073 104 2395

CAPE TOWN Tel: 082 627 9862

cutting of tiles), and has gained international acclaim for the quality, accuracy and robustness of its equipment.

For further information: 011 849 6651 / info@falcontiling.co.za / www.falcontiling.co.za

www.falcontiling.co.za F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

81

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

GUIDELINES

Recycled rubber floors

Belgotex Floorcoverings is committed to creating new opportunities for floorcovering installers and salespeople, by presenting a programme of wide-ranging training workshops aimed at upgrading their professional skills and motivation. Established in 2002 (and originally known as the Carpet Pro Academy), the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy has provided invaluable skills upliftment to hundreds of carpet professionals countrywide.

This is the fifth in a series of articles by the Belgotex Floorcoverings Academy that are designed to assist those in the retail trade to adopt better selling and installation techniques.

BELGO

An introduction to Sportec Colour

S

portec is a recycled rubber floor made from 85% recycled car tyres and has

been part of Belgotex ranges for the past 5 years. Primarily a glossy black, Sportec is available in six colourways featuring funky chips of bright red, blue, green, yellow, grey or a mix of blue and grey.

Compacted to 4mm thick, Sportec is easily cleaned and comfortable underfoot with excellent performance and insulation prop-

erties, making it ideal for fitness centres with no heavy weights; change rooms; gymnasiums; retail environments; lifts; office spaces, production areas, and many other applications, providing no oil is prevalent.

Sportec is commonly installed in MR Price Sports and HI-FI Corporation due to its hard wearing nature and acoustical properties.

Belgotex Floorcoverings • Tel: 033 897 7500 • Cell: 082 561 6072 • E-mail: allan.dewit@carpet.co.za • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za 82

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

Manufacturing Process Fine recycled rubber granules and EPDM (new rubber) colour granules are mixed into a cylinder and chemically bonded with a polyurethane elastomer. Deodoriser is added to mask the smell of rubber. It is then compressed under high pressure, resulting in a dense excellent performing product.

The material is then shaved to the required thickness.

Technical Specifications • 1,5m wide (±1,5%) • 15m lengths (±1,5%) • 4 mm standard stock (6,8,10,12 mm optional) (±0,3 mm tolerance) • ±4,2kg/m² (± 94,5 kg per length) • Chair castor compatibility – excellent • Suitable for use with underfloor heating • Fire resistance (B2>DIN4102EFL)

(EN13501) • Low in Electrostatic propensity – less than 2.0 kV (DIN EN 1815:1995-06) Average =0.5kV. (Static Control – Permanent) • Impact sound reduction 17 dB (at 6 mm) DIN EN ISO 140-8:1993-03

Features

If necessary, prime the surface with a suit-

Installation Installation

surface

• Impact sound resistant

Before commencing installation the material

• Walking noise reduction

must be left open in the area of installation

• High impact resistance

for a period of 24 hours to acclimatise. It is

• Insensitive to moisture and water

also important to note that the rolls must be

• Easy to maintain

horizontally stored and not vertically to pre-

• Excellent performance –

vent damage to the material.

high resistance to wear • Great anti-slip properties

The material must be adhered with a 2-part polyurethane adhesive using a 3mm notch trowel and must be rolled with a light roller of

Installation surface

approximately 24 kg’s to ensure proper adhesion. The adhesive manufacturer’s instructions

To be installed on a cement/concrete surface. Not recommended for installation on

must be carefully followed.

Material to be butt-joined (overlap, scribe

wood (wood surfaces must breath to prevent

and cut) to ensure tightly installed panels

sweating and expansion of material) or

without any gap’s; caution must be exer-

uneven surfaces.

cised on cross seams.

The installation surface must be level,

Maintenance

able sealant.

It is important to note that the same dye lot

smooth and free of any undulations, non-

must be used in a single installation and the

porous and dust free, it must also dry to

rolls installed sequentially to eliminate texture

ensure good adhesion.

and colour variations.

• Use soil barrier mats (walk-off) as a preventative measure • Remove loose dust and dirt using a high performance vacuum cleaner, prefably with a rotating brush • Remove dirt using a damp cloth • Stubborn stains will require a mild detergent solution – rinse with clean water • A wet extraction cleaning method is recommend for professional cleaning Sealing

Sealing

Material can be sealed using a water based Polyurethane sealer, this is mostly done to improve maintenance and only recommended for indoors.

The sealant can reduce the anti-slip properties.

Belgotex Floorcoverings• Tel: • Tel: 897 7500 • Cell: 6072 E-mail: • Website: www.belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za 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 F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

83

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

SIKA

New Bloemfontein ORGATEC Branch World Festival of Interiors

Sika’s new branch in the city of Bloemfontein To meet the local demand in the area, Sika has recently opened a new branch in the city of Bloemfontein. Long-standing reliability and constant innovation are just two of the reasons why Sika products are highly respected and in demand globally, and South African customers are as eager as the rest of the world, which has led to this development.

Paul Adams, Sika South Africa’s managing director, said, “There has been a keen demand in this area for all Sika products and we want to establish a strong presence in all segments of our market.”

“Sika has chosen to open a dedicated branch in this region as opposed to using distributors, as we believe it is vital for the presence of a fully-staffed local office to be felt here again,” he said. “It is also important to have the logistical support locally, but the main reason is to ensure that there is always stock available in Bloemfontein when needed.”

Sika has appointed Herman van Rensburg as the new branch manager and he will also act as technical sales representative for Sika’s four business units: Contractors, Industry, Concrete and Distribution.

Assisting Herman will be Rousseau Swart who has recently joined Sika as the Bloemfontein branch administrator. “We are confident that Herman will go the extra mile to build relationships with all our customers and, together with Rousseau, will provide excellent customer service to our Bloemfontein clients,” said Adams.

Approximately 80 guests attended the official opening of the Bloemfontein branch in July, where local customers including engineers, architects, contractors, glass and aluminium customers, as well as distribution customers mingled with Paul Adams; Sika executives Andre Barnard and Shaun Saxby and business unit manager Jacques Reinecke; Sika area Sales managers Raj Naidoo, James Brown and Roland van der Merwe; and Kevin Kimbrey, the Cape Town regional manager.

Adams and the business unit managers gave individual presentations, providing an overview of Sika’s product and service offerings.

84

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

The World Festival of Interiors will take place in parallel with the next Orgatec Expo from 23 to 27 October 2012 in Cologne, Germany – a relationship having been established with Koelnmesse, organisers of Orgatec, the leading international trade fair for office design and equipment.

Orgatec will thus offer architects, interior designers and designers from all over the world an exciting event concentrating on outstanding interior design projects and their creators. The highlight of the festival is a prestigious international awards programme.

Further information on the World Festival of Interiors is available online at www.insidefestival.com or contact : edmond.katongole@emap.com.

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

CAESARSTONE Design Award

Front row: Wouter Basson, Winner, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design, Rene Kotze, Lecturer, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design Back Row: Bridgitte Raats, Logistics Director, Caesarstone, Trevor King, Marketing Director, Caesarstone, Rudi Eggers, Managing Director, Caesarstone cheque for R3000.

The brief for Real & Simple was conceptualised by Janina Masojada of designworkshop:sa. As the original inventor and first global company to use natural quartz in the manufacture of its surfaces, Caesarstone’s brief had to reflect the perfect harmony between sus-

Front row: Rene Kotze, Lecturer, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design, Wouter Basson, Winner, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design, Janina Masojada, Judge, Designworkshop:sa BacK Row: Jonathan Anstey, Judge, Stauch Vorster Architects, Dorothy Van’T Riet, Judge, DVR, Lisa Younger, Judge, Activate Space, Darren Bester, Judge, It Is Design Caesarstone, one of South Africa’s quartz surface pioneers, announced the winner of its 4th Annual Design Award Real & Simple competition on 1 September at The Venue in Melrose Arch, which unearthed the dynamic and innovative designers of South Africa’s design future. Students excelled in honing their acquired design skills to create ‘a place for the range of what our lives are about’, in terms of the competition brief.

The Caesarstone Student Designer of 2011 is Wouter Basson, a student from Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Interior Design. Winning lecturer is Rene Kotze. The winner and the lecturer of the winning student will be winging their way to Israel, home of Caesarstone.

The R50 000 prize includes airfare, accommodation and spending money, and iRender awarded the winning student with software to the value of R20 000.

A merit award of R5000 was awarded to the second prize winner which this year was Tarquin van der Westhuizen from BHC School

Rene Kotze, Lecturer, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design, Wouter Basson, Winner, Tshwane University of Technology Department of Interior Design

of Design, Department of Interior Design, the lecturer being Marga Nagel.

A special mention award was given to Eloise van Dyk, from Tshwane University of Technology Department of Architecture; her lecturer was Marinda Bolt. The winner of this award received a

tainability and style.

The brief did not dictate maximum or minimal usage of the Caesarstone product but asked students to create spatial and visual solutions by breaking preconceptions.

Trevor King, marketing director of Caesarstone, comments, “The emerging design talent is an inspiration for the industry and this year the entries set a new benchmark. The thought processes and respective applications stretch beyond the expected work of tertiary design students.”

EVENTS TO DIARISE: 2012 - INTERNATIONAL 11 – 14 JAN: Heimtextil

Messe Frankfurt, Germany

www. heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

14 -17 JAN: Domotex Hanover

Hannover, Germany

www.domotex.de/home 24-26 JAN: Surfaces

Las Vegas, Nevada

www.surfaces.com 7 -10 FEB: Cevisama

Valencia, Spain

www.ceramicindustry.com 13 – 14 FEB: Qualicer, Castellon, Spain

www.qualicer.org

MARCH: March Expo Revestir, Sao Paolo, Brazil

www.exporevestir.com.br MARCH: WoodEX for Africa, Gallagher Convention Centre 8 –11 MAY: Africa Infrastructure Expo

Johannesburg Expo Centre 9 -12 MAY: Piedra Stone Fair

Spain, Madrid

www.eventseye.com

MARCH: Domotex Asia/CHINAFLOOR

Shanghai New International Expo Centre

www.domotexasiachinafloor.com

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

85

Specialist transport EXCELLENT TRACK RECORD

EFFICIENT AND TIME

for the flooring industry -CONSCIOUS

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION DRIVEN

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

DOMOTEX HANNOVER 2012 International Design competition

RELIABLE More often

The dictionary definition of ‘reliable’ is: able to be relied upon; trustworthy; dependable and, with over four decades of serving the

soft flooring market in Southern Africa with considerable success – which includes having pioneered access flooring in this country – Peter Bates Flooring has an unsurpassed reputation for the reliability, trustworthiness and dependability that it extends to its customers.

The secret of the company’s success is that it has been based on fair trading and the development of its loyal staff, not the least of which includes the adoption of PETER – the acronym that encapsulates the values the company adheres to in all its endeavours – Professionalism; Empowerment; Transparency; Ethics; and Reliability, the last of which is Domotex says that carpets are staging a major comeback and are now an indispensable part of fashion-conscious interior design, and work well with the ultra-modern, minimalist furnishing styles that are currently so popular.

This carpet renaissance is giving designers a whole new creative palette, and the most innovative new creations will receive the recognition they deserve at the Carpet Design Awards at Domotex 2012, which will take place in Hannover, Germany, from 14 to 17 January.

The Carpet Design Awards are a prestigious international competition for hand-made carpets and rugs. Entries, which can be made in a total of ten categories, are judged against a range of criteria, including design, quality of materials, product features and innovation.

The upcoming awards at Domotex 2012 will feature a new category, Best Studio Artist Design, for limited-edition carpets and rugs designed/produced by artists and textile studios. The jury will be looking for creations characterised by sophisticated design elements, unique material qualities, weave types and colours. The new category provides greater international exposure for avant-garde, pioneering carpet designs.

The best three entries in each category will be on display at Domotex 2012. The conditions for participation in the Carpet Design Awards as well as entry forms and information on the jury are available online at www.domotex.de/cda_e. The closing date for entries is 4 November 2011.

Match & Meet Match & Meet is a new online service that matches Domotex exhibitors with pre-qualified visitors and vice versa ahead of the fair. It enables visitors to plan their visit to the fair and helps put exhibitors in touch with new business contacts.

To use the service, trade visitors simply create a personal profile at www.domotex.de indicating the products and services they are interested in. Exhibitors need only register for the Match & Meet service.

They do not need to create a profile, as this information, including details of their company and products, will already be contained in their exhibitor profile and will automatically be transferred to the Match & Meet system.

Match & Meet uses special software to identify points in common between the profiles of registered providers and seekers. Users thus receive lists of matches, complete with contact details, so that they can contact potential partners directly to arrange meetings.

“Our new matchmaking service gives companies a highly effective tool for initiating new business. It helps put them in touch with relevant business contacts and gives them access to new target groups,” explains Susanne Klaproth, the Domotex project director at Deutsche Messe.

88

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

detailed here.

Why is reliability so important? There are a number of reasons why reliability is an important company attribute. A company’s reputation is very closely related to the reliability of its products or service. The more a company is perceived to be reliable, the more likely it is to have a favourable reputation.

While a reliable product or service may not dramatically affect customer satisfaction in a demonstrably positive manner, unreliability will negatively affect customer satisfaction severely. Thus high reliability is a mandatory requirement for customer satisfaction at Peter Bates.

Having gained an exemplary reputation for reliability – with all our employees willing to go the extra mile to keep customers happy by meeting deadlines and promises – Peter Bates Flooring enjoys considerable repeat and referred business because customers have learned the benefits of Peter Bates’ reliability from experience.

Apart from the fact that our established reliability means that we have numerous blue chip companies that repeatedly come back to us for all their flooring requirements because they know we can deliver, the fact remains that the more reliable our service becomes, the greater our competitive advantage is in the marketplace – a distinguishing feature of our business that we at Peter Bates Flooring are proud of and will go out of our way to defend.

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

NEW

Pourable thickbed adhesive

AWARD

Another winner @ MIA! FLOORS in Africa (and publisher Media in Africa) is proud to announce that sister publication Walls & Roofs in Africa has been awarded Cersaie’s Ceramic Tiles of Italy Journalism Award 2011 for the article International Trends at the 2010 Tile Exhibition which appeared in the Oct/

TAL has expanded its adhesive range with a pourable, rapid-setting, flexible thick-bed adhesive, especially developed for fixing large-format tiles to interior and exterior floors.

The adhesive enables faster and easier bedding of floor tiles and the rapid-setting flexible

Nov 2010 issue of the magazine.

The jury, comprising top professionals in the international tiling industry,

formulation means that no latex additive is required for installations in wet areas, exteriors and

found this article to be the widest and

surfaces where movement is expected. Grouting can commence four hours after tiling, which

most exhaustive description of all entries

shortens the installation time and results in faster project turnaround and reduced labour cost.

submitted. Walls & Roofs competed with

Tile trends are moving to larger formats and sizes and these tiles are being specified for shop-

hundreds of magazines across the world

ping centres and upmarket commercial developments more often.

“We are constantly developing new products to cater for the demands of the tile industry and identified the need for a rapid-setting, pourable and flexible adhesive to save contractors time on site,” says Marius Botha, inland sales manager at TAL.

for this award, which will be accepted by editor Marlene E van Rooyen in Bologna, Italy, in October.

Commenting on this award, Marlene

TAL Pourable Adhesive is a high-strength, grey cement-based adhesive suitable for all tile for-

said, “To be recognised with an interna-

mats, but especially ideal for fixing all large-format ceramic, porcelain, granite, natural stone and

tional award is a tremendous achieve-

dark-coloured marble tiles to high-traffic floors.

ment for us. It demonstrates that we

It is specifically formulated to provide good wet-out on large-format floor tiles, ensuring solid

are on par with publications worldwide

bedding with no buttering required on the tile backs. The adhesive is pourable, spreads very eas-

reporting to the design and architectural

ily and quickly, builds up thick to accommodate heavy tiles that can be dropped in, and is rapid-

fraternity, and have been judged the

setting, thus saving on-site cost and time.

best this year.”

The number of tile breakages while working is minimised as the adhesive consistency ensures

“It is really an accolade to the team

good wet-out and eliminates the creation of voids that can cause tiles to crack when the slight-

whom I must thank for all their hard

est pressure is applied.

work and dedication; it is expressed

“Larger tiles and specialist tiles can cost in excess of R1000 each, making this product ideal to minimise wastage and save money,” he says.

TAL Pourable Adhesive requires no additive – only water – and is therefore ready to be applied for interior and exterior applications, wet areas and surfaces where movement is expected.

Coverage is approximately 8kg/m² depending on site conditions and workmanship. The tiled floor can handle light traffic after four hours, at which point it can be grouted, and normal traffic

in our world-class publication and the rewards!”

“With numerous awards under our belt, our clients can rest assured that they are investing in a recognised leading industry publication,” she says.

allowed after six hours.

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

89

W h a t â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s h a p p e n i n g

JOINT VENTURE

Matting companies

caption

At a prestigious function held on 22 August

acquire core competence from Debomat.

It is ideally suitable as a promotional tool,

2011, Flemish Minister-President Peeters

The joint venture has opened up doors for

or for enjoyment in retirement villages, rec-

witnessed the signing of a joint venture

product development as well as the oppor-

reation clubs, youth groups and in the hotel

between two prominent matting manufac-

tunity to introduce South African products

and leisure industry.

turers, Belgian-operated business Debomat

into Europe.

and South African-based company Matco.

Fun was had by all, including Dr Nonceba Mashalaba, Chief Director: Product & Systems

Peeters also tried his hand at curling on car-

Development â&#x20AC;&#x201C; South African Department

the managing directors, Tom de Bondt and

pet. Curling is a social sport which is enjoyed

of Trade & Industry, who demonstrated the

Nicole Herron respectively, and signifies the

equally by young and old. It is an easy-going

game with ease and elegance.

strengthening of both businesses.

game which stimulates social contact,

The joint venture agreement was signed by

It puts Matco closer to European standards and trends and provides the opportunity to

90

During the evening, Minister-President

F LO O R S O c t N ov 2 0 1 1

For more information: 011 452 7961 /

requires a certain amount of physical exer-

sales@matcomats.co.za /

cise and promotes an active mind.

www.matcomarketing.co.za

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

BEE COMPLIANCE Proof of Broad-Based Black Economic

officials and procurement officers conse-

Empowerment (B-BBEE) compliance will

quently will need to change their tender

Soon mandatory

certificates.

Other benefits include participation in

have to be provided soon in tenders

assessment to ensure compliance with the

the formal South African economy; access

for government contracts, according to

new legislation,” he states.

to tax incentives and financial grants spe-

Deon Landmann, Education, Training &

“The requirements will allocate ten-

cifically aimed at the B-BBEE programme;

Transformation Officer of the Gauteng

der points based on compliance with

accessibility to commercial bank financ-

Master Builders Association (GMBA).

the B-BBEE scorecard. If a company has

ing; qualification for incentives from the

Landmann says National Treasury

achieved highly in this regard, it will be

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

regulations regarding evaluation

awarded maximum points but if it is

in accordance with its policy; and elimi-

of tenders will be changed from 7

non-compliant, it will receive little or no

nation of the need for completing long

December. “Evaluation of tenders from

recognition. Only valid certificates will be

questionnaires relating to black empow-

that date must be done using B-BBEE

accepted.”

erment when tendering for government

status. Revised Preferential Procurement

Landmann said companies interacting

Regulations have finally made a B-BBEE

with the public sector and in possession of

contracts.

“It makes economic sense to obtain

compliance scorecard mandatory when

a verified B-BBEE scorecard would receive

a B-BBEE compliance certificate.

tendering for government tenders.”

preferential treatment by public sector and

Construction businesses with such score-

also other companies, as these companies

cards will increasingly gain market share

Procurement Policy Framework Act into

will aim to procure 50% of their annual

from competitors in an already fiercely

full alignment with the B-BBEE Act. Tender

procurement from companies with B-BBEE

competitive industry,” Landmann added.

“The revision now brings the Preferential

DOMOTEX 2012 HANNOVER Customised Living

resilient floor coverings, parquet and lami-

Decorators will take place in conjunction with

nates in an exciting display that embodies this

Domotex, and the content of the two-day

keynote theme.

event focuses on design solutions for different

Customised Living is a concept that can be applied to every product segment represented at Domotex. The design options are

rooms and areas of the home, addressing the core theme of the expo.

For the first time the task involves creating

endless – silk or wool, traditional patterns

room settings that best reflect individual life-

or futuristic modern design, vibrant colours

styles. The gamut of styles ranges from stylish

or subtle hues, modern carpets woven to

elegance to youthful chic.

customer specifications or carpets and carpet

In addition to fulfilling the necessary techni-

tiles arrayed in different colour combinations

cal skills, the competitors must also have a

and shapes. It is easier than ever to achieve an

good instinct for design trends and style. It is

individual, stylish effect.

therefore not surprising that the competition

Laminate flooring, designer vinyls and other

is turning into an important showplace for trends and originality.

The desire to be different, to express one’s

modern materials also lend themselves to a

individuality at many levels, is one of the big

wide range of styles. Similarly, wood, stone,

contemporary trends, and this is particularly

ceramic and cork floors are attractive and

ticipants, who must prove their creativity and

evident in interior design.

versatile. New materials and products open

professional skills under difficult circumstanc-

up a host of imaginative and daring solutions,

es, not only having to convince the judges but

at Deutsche Messe AG, explains, “People

while parquet flooring remains hugely popu-

also having to perform under the scrutiny of

pursue the aim of self-realisation by creat-

lar and versatile.

an audience of peers and professionals.

Dr. Andreas Gruchow, member of the Board

It poses a real challenge to the young par-

No two wooden floors are identical – the

As in the past, the participants comprise

within their own homes. That is why we are

wide choice of different woods, colours and

the two best interior decorators of the year

calling the central theme of DOMOTEX 2012

types of wooden flooring allows for unusual

from Switzerland, Germany, Austria and South

Customised Living.”

combinations and designs that suit diverse

Tyrol in their respective national competitions.

styles and enable the realisation of original,

The contestants must have completed their

customised directions in interior design.

apprenticeship within the last year and may

ing their own individual style, particularly

The international floorcovering sector will gather from 14 to17 January 2012 to showcase design trends in carpets, home textiles,

The European Trade Competition of Interior

not exceed the permitted age limit of 25.

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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

BRAND NEW

Van Dyck Carpets has invested in a superb

nicely carpeted with the Van Dyck range of

As you enter the studio you are greeted by

new design studio in a new format that

Tiger Turf synthetic lawn called Finesse. It is

a large green couch adjacent to a large televi-

entailed revamping it into a completely Green

the perfect lawn with little effort or mainte-

sion screen which is used for presentations.

setting with its range of Oxygen carpets tiles

nance, and is soft to the touch and very com-

Opposite is a 10-seater boardroom table.

as the main furnishing. The revamp was in line

fortable to walk on.

with the Van Dyck policy of keeping up with

The floor is now fully carpeted with the

This creates a green space that’s inviting,

Van Dyck pride and joy, the Oxygen carpet

the fresh and exciting new journey that the

realistic and visually appealing. Tiger Turf

tile, which is claimed to be the first carpet

company has recently embarked on.

Finesse incorporates a brown thatch grass

tile of its kind manufactured from 85%

layer to replicate the look of a standard lawn.

recycled material.

The stairway leading to the studio has been

ADÉLE FLOORS in Africa is expanding and growing to provide our clients with an even better service, and to do this we now have Adéle Korff fully trained as a specialist advertising account manager – and rarin’ to go!

FLOORS will soon also be available on all the digital platforms, with touchscreen and android devices, laptops, desktops, iPhone and iPad. We are improving our offering and service to enable advertisers to increase their market footprint.

FLOORS is also a constant top performer in the Architectural section of the Audit Bureau of Circulation (ABC) and is the only dedicated flooring magazine on

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Look out for Adéle!

the African Continent, thereby making it a preferred branding choice.

Adéle will soon be in touch to meet everyone and present our 2012 offering. All our traditional annual features will appear again this year, but we have a whole host of new projects to keep the specifiers and decision-makers up to date.

We trust that you will welcome Adéle with open arms. She will play an integral part to your success in reaching your target market through FLOORS in Africa.

Adéle can be reached on 012 347 7530 / 082 385 2928 / adele@mediainafrica.co.za.

Adéle Korff

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

APPOINTMENTS WEBSITE

At Lafarge

Launched

Lafarge has announced that Peter Deering, previously Area Manager Durban Aggregates, has accepted the position of

Industrial Manager Aggregates – South and Ray Chambers from Qatar Precast (a Lafarge JV company) has accepted the position of Industrial Manager Aggregates – North.

Both these positions became effective on 1st July 2011 and report to Bryan Rookledge, Business Unit General Manager.

Tile Africa Contracts has launched its new website www.tileafricacontracts.co.za to keep the industry informed about the company’s latest product offerings and recent projects for which it supplies tiles and bathroomware. The company is inviting construction industry professionals, including developers, architects, specifiers and designers to visit the easy-to-navigate site.

Tile Africa Contracts provides building industry professionals with quality products and a range of services to meet their project requirements.

Its dedicated team is involved from concept to completion to ensure design continuity and the success of the project, and its architectural and design consultants offer on-site technical advice and share their valued expertise.

“Our new website makes it easy for you to submit an online request for our team to visit your site,” says Craig Irvine, national manager for Tile

Peter Deering

Ray Chambers

WEAK DEMAND But looking to expand

Ceramic Industries experienced weak demand due to the influx of cheap imported product, mostly from China, according to its financial results for the year to July, but is looking to expand its manufacturing operations into Africa.

Managing director Nick Booth said the company hopes to have at least one plant in operation in Africa within the next three years, and is exploring opportunities in Zambia and other African markets such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and Sudan.

Booth also stated that Ceramic Industries plans to build a new R500-million factory for large format tiles in Vereeniging with the capacity to manufacture almost 10-million square metres of tiles annually, but this had been placed on hold due to difficulties with obtaining prospecting and mining licences from the Department of Mineral Resources to enable the group to secure new clay deposits to support this investment.

In the financial report, headline earnings declined by almost 31% to R7,583 per share from R11,313; Group revenue dropped 3% to R1,55-billion; and the company’s operating profit decreased 23% to R191,8-million.

Africa Contracts.

The website features a blog that functions as a networking tool and allows interested parties to share their project highlights and work with the rest of the industry.

“We invite companies and practices to showcase their projects and in return they’ll receive exposure on our website. This is the ideal opportunity to introduce potential clients to your services,” says Irvine.

“Regardless of whether you are an existing Tile Africa Contracts client, you can submit photos of recently completed projects, which will be posted together with your company details and a short description of the project on the Contracts Showcase page located on the site,” he says.

The website also facilitates subscription to the company’s e-newsletter, Full Circle, which provides regular updates of new products and industry news.

Do you need…

A new brochure? Copywriting? A full service is available from design to final print from Jacquerie.

We also undertake research and copywriting for press releases, articles or sales leaflets.

Whatever your needs, contact us for full details and rates.

Dave Soons, Jacquerie Marketing cc Tel: 012 807 7012; e-mail: dsoons@mweb.co.za Fax to e-mail: 086 601 7842

Transparent

0861 PETER(73837) www.peterbates.co.za

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PMSA

New talent Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA) – one of Africa’s leading suppliers of concrete equipment solutions and technology – has made two senior appointments with the employment of Quintin Booysen as the company’s new Sales and Marketing Manager, and Fredrik Toftemo as Sales Manager: Twister Sales Southern Africa (Floor Cleaning Solutions).

Quintin has comprehensive experience in

Quintin Booysens & Fredrik Toftemo

marketing industrial products – particularly

housing, schooling and buildings in develop-

concrete and building equipment – into

ing economies.

Fredrik has been living in Sweden (where he comes from originally) and working for Twister, which is at the forefront of cost-

developing economies. He has visited more

His wealth of knowledge and expertise

than 50 countries on six continents, where

makes him a valuable asset to PMSA, and

effective chemical free cleaning for the pro-

he has worked on projects ranging from

management would like to welcome him

fessional floor cleaning industry. His main

community and housing, to rural schooling

to the team, and wish him all the best in his

objectives are to educate cleaning compa-

and community development projects.

new position.

nies and further develop the professional floor cleaning market in Southern Africa.

Quintin holds an Honours degree in BSc

Fredrik is an expert in the professional floor

Building Science (Wits), a PDBA (GIBS) and

cleaning industry and his expertise are great-

an MBA (GIBS), and has received several aca-

ly valuable to the floor cleaning industry as

are serious about cost saving, cleaner and

demic awards including academic honorary

he comes with a forte of experience from

shinier floors with the added advantage of

colours from University of Pretoria. He has

the European Floor Cleaning Industry which

reducing bacteria, shining floors to a higher

attended and presented at several interna-

takes advantage of the latest green trends in

gloss and all of this achieved only with water

tional conferences on the construction of

cleaning as well as cost-effective cleaning.

and a single green Twister pad.

Fredrik is here to assist all companies who

OHSA LEGISLATION Hearing protection is an important part of

rect grading for the amount of noise in vari-

Occupational Health & Safety legislation

ous areas. Due to the nature of construction

and personal protective equipment issued

work, it may be difficult to identify tasks

by employers to workers should include

and situations which pose noise hazards. A

earplugs or earmuffs correctly graded for

general guideline is where normal commu-

operational noise levels, the Gauteng Master

nication is difficult – such as when you need

Builders Association (GMBA) has cautioned.

to shout to communicate – then the noise

The “Hearing Protection” section of the GMBA’s new “Applying Safe Work Practice in

Hearing protection is an important part of health and safety legislation in the building industry, the GMBA has warned.

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Hearing protection

rating limit may have been exceeded.”

“Persons who are continuously exposed to

the Building Environment” text book states

tasks identified to have noise levels exceed-

that noise-induced hearing loss regulations

ing 85 decibels are required to undergo

stipulate controls and monitoring require-

audiometric screening to determine an

ments at any workplace where a worker

audiometric baseline. Thereafter, annual

may be exposed to noise levels above the

testing may be required to monitor the

rating limit.

status of such an employee’s hearing,” the

“Hearing protection equipment such as earplugs and earmuffs is graded according to the amount of noise reduction they offer, so employers should be aware of the cor-

GMBA publication adds.

For further information contact Doug Michell: 011 805 6611 / dougm@gmba.co.za

W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

NEW FAIR Interior design furniture

SHOWROOM For creative concrete A new showroom and an exciting new concept were launched in Johannesburg during September, and FLOORS in Africa was there to bring you details of this interactive hub for the development of unique designs in concrete.

Qubique is a new furniture fair designed to showcase a selection of

In announcing this venture, Peter Norton said, “To most people

international furniture brands at Berlin’s decommissioned Tempelhof

concrete is cold, grey and plain ugly. Concreate is here to show you

Airport from 26 to 29 October 2011.

that this is not the case and we can show you how to make con-

Alongside this unique location, which plays a central role in the exhibi-

crete warm, coloured and textured and make it beautiful – on walls,

tion, Qubique’s holistic approach will make it a trade fair for the next

floors, countertops, tables, chairs, loungers, desks, pots, driveways,

generation, with a comprehensive lighting and music concept, open

patios, walkways and many other areas.”

stand assembly, high-quality catering, and original entertainment and

Anyone can visit our showroom and experience the world of con-

side events to transform the show into a platform where trade and mar-

crete and creation. Architects and interior designers are able to be

keting go hand in hand with communication and entertainment.

inspired and create their unique designs using our products.

Held over two days dedicated to trade professionals and another two

Builders and contractors are able to offer clients attractive decora-

days dedicated to the general public, Qubique will bring together furni-

tive finishes in their projects that are time-saving, cost-saving and

ture experts and design fans from all over the world at this annual show.

energy-efficient. Artisans are able to come to Concreate and be

Tickets for trade professionals are free; accredit yourself now and you will receive your ticket free of cost by post, together with comprehensive event information.

The Concreate concept originally started as a showroom that showcased decorative concrete and cement finishes. Whilst devel-

Visit www.qubique.com for full information on this unique event.

ERRATA:

trained in the correct application of the products.

Authentic Flooring

FLOORS in Africa: Journal 2/11: Pages 86/87

oping the showroom we identified the need for training in the products. Whilst speaking to several suppliers we also identified that Concreate could be the ideal hub for brand association and the route to market for these companies and thus we started the BATS Concept – an acronym meaning Brand Association, Training & Showroom.

To this end we identified several partners for Concreate that have come on board using the BATS concept; these partner companies

We are indebted to Oren Sachs of World of Marble & Granite for

are non-competing and complementary to each other, helping to

pointing out some discrepancies in the above feature article.

deliver the solutions our customers require.

Under the heading MARBLE we stated that marble is usually heavily

These include Weber – with cementitious wall coverings, self-

grained and veined, but this is not the case because, although some

levelling screed systems and grano floor systems; HTC – the Swedish

marble is heavily grained and veined, marble that does not exhibit

company represented in South Africa by Pan Mixers SA for equip-

veins is also available.

ment and consumables used in the concrete polishing market;

Under TRAVERTINE we said that most natural stone can be supplied

Speedheat – the local floor heating company; Cobra – the local

polished, honed or flamed, but most natural stone such as marble,

giant in sanitaryware; and Grace Haven Industries (GHI) – the local

travertine, sandstone and limestone cannot be flamed; also, the fact

supplier of frameless glass systems.

that all natural stone can be brushed did not appear in the article.

Concreate has also partnered through local agency agreements

Under GRANITE it was stated that granite is usually supplied in

with two American companies that are the leaders in their respec-

darker colours, but in fact there is a wide variety of colours in granite

tive fields of decorative concrete: Buddy Rhodes has 25 years expe-

slabs. Virtually from white to black.

rience in developing a bone white malleable concrete mixture and

Under SANDSTONE & SOAPSTONE we did not mention that the

mould system; and American Decorative Concrete Supply Company

sandstone is a very porous material and that usually one needs to

that produces the globally renowned range of concrete stains and

seal it with a penetrating sealer and, thereafter, a surface sealer.

dyes called Colour Juice.

Thanks once again to Oren for bringing this to our attention, and we hope that no inconvenience has been caused by these omissions.

See more by visiting the showroom at 1 Government Road, Johannesburg North, Fourways (Tel 011 704 5557), or visit the website www.concreate.co.za.

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W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g

FLOORING questions & answers

?

I want a wooden floor in my lounge, but can this be environmentally friendly?

Yes, but you need to be careful. You could try to re-use timber where possible but, if you are looking for something new, then make sure the wood has the FSC (Forest Stewardship Certificate) mark on it. Always avoid timber that isn’t certificated, or composite boards with toxic glues.

If you are re-using timber, ensure that it is sound and not rotten or diseased.

FLOORS, ENCAPSULATED

SCREEDS The start to a perfect finish The laying of a floor screed, which will later be hidden away under the selected floorcovering, is a skilled job usually undertaken by plasterers once the walls and ceiling are plastered.

Traditionally, screeds are laid around 40-75mm thick onto a concrete subfloor. A screed mix is relatively strong, using one part cement to three parts sand, and when complete it gives a smooth and level floor on which to lay the chosen

With new timber, asking to see the FSC certification avoids having misleading conversations with suppliers. Without a certificate you have to do lots of research, so you can be easily misled.

floor finish.

However, it is not always necessary to have a screed, because there is nothing structural about a screed and some designs do away with one altogether, but usually the floor beneath the screed is not laid to a particularly high standard.

With second-hand timber you are in a different game. Ask where it came from. Lots of “re-used” timber is actually just clearance of new timber (so it could easily be from European forests being felled). If the supplier tells you that it comes from local houses being demolished, or an old school or industrial site, it is more likely to be genuine. It is also interesting to know the history of your flooring.

In recent times, there has been a marked shift towards using ready-mixed screeds, delivered by lorry at the beginning of the day. In fact only a third of sites still use site-mixed screeds, particularly as the ready-mixed screeds come with added retardants to delay the set so that it is possible to work all day with one load.

The process of laying is very different to what we have become used to with cement screeds. The biggest factor is

I want to buy some area mats; what can I use to prevent them slipping?

It depends what type of floor you have. If it is a vinyl or ceramic tiled floor, do not put rubber-backed, latex-backed or fibre mats on it because they will stain or damage the surface.

volume of screed used due to increased depths, especially on

To prevent slippage of area rugs, you can use a quality vinyl rug underlay. But, it is also worth knowing that you should not use rubber, foam-back or plastic mats on hardwood floors, as they may also promote discolouring.

out and curing. The rule of thumb is to allow a day for every

irregular sub-bases.

It is not uncommon for a specialist screeding company to receive an enquiry for a 50mm depth of screed, only to find that it runs from 40mm to 80mm, resulting in increased unforeseen costs.

Whichever system you use, ensure ample time for drying millimetre depth, so 40-75 days is the standard time recommended.

Finally, there is the issue of structural or shrinkage cracking.

Best practice recommends that, to avoid movement issues,

Regarding treatments, there are many depending on what you are looking for. The most common treatments are: Water- and soil-resistant carpet is treated with chemicals such as Scotchguard or Teflon to prevent the fibres from absorbing stains. Carpet fibres should be treated with these repellents before the backing is put on the carpet for better protection.

screeds should not cover an area of more than 40m² or a distance in any one direction longer than eight metres.

Expansion joints are recommended to subdivide larger screed areas or, alternatively, an anti-crack mesh can be placed in the screed, or fibres

Antistatic treatments resist static electricity from friction against carpets; acrylic or olefin (polypropylene) fibres are often used because of their low static levels. Footprint-free, trackless or track-resistant carpets (usually level-loop piles such as Berbers) are tightly twisted and hide vacuum marks and footprints. Crush-resistant carpets (usually textured cutpile) have tightly twisted fibres to limit crushed fibres.

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added to the mix itself. *The views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views or opinions of Jeremy Stewart FLOORS in Africa.

Flooring specialist and owner of Quartz Carpet, SA.