March 2012Volume 9 Number 3

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Tile & Stone Journal is published by © Kick-Start Publishing LtdISSN 1744-4276

CONTENTSNEWS Marketing campaign by national Apprenticeship Service, RAK sponsors pro-Am golf event, Stott is tiler of the Month, norcros adjusts forecast, Ancora’s Russian win, and more 4

TTA NEWSLETTER CE marking, web marketing, ttA Awards dinner and tilezine 18

DESIGN TRENDS Abdulla Mahmood on the vital importance of raw materials 22

SITE REPORT Edgbaston teamwork by Schluter and birmingham tile 26

DESIGN RESOURCE Johnson tiles’ new three-part product library unveiled 28

SITE REPORT plunkett tiling uses Weber at national Museum of Scotland 32

TILE DISTRIBUTORS tSJ’s annual survey of the uK’s tiling powerhouses 36

DESIGN TRENDS Laticrete bonds limestone to Kuwait’s tallest tower 46

MOSAICS & GLASS Key suppliers and current design trends in the spotlight 50

PROFILE trade price Stone grows powerfully through the recession 58

PORTFOLIO What’s new in tiles, tools, natural stone and fixing materials 60

DISTRIBUTORS: CRAVEN DUNNILL P44

SubSCRiptionSUnited Kingdom£40.00 per annum

Europe£70.00 per annum

Rest of the World£95.00 per annum

MARCH 2012 TSJ 3

NEWS & COMMENT

4 TSJ MARCH 2012

The National Apprenticeship Servicehas launched a new marketing cam-paign to promote Apprenticeships toemployers, young people and parents.

The campaign stars current and for-mer apprentices from Bentley, insur-ance brokers Blue Fin, BT, buildersJelson Homes, housing associationIncommunities and SEC Recruitment

It aims to showcase the talents, skillsand commitment of real apprentices ineveryday workplaces. The campaign

will also inform and persuade more companies and individuals to reap thebenefits of Apprenticeships for themselves.

The creatives lead with the strapline ‘Apprenticeships deliver’ and directmail, public relations and advertising will focus on themes that define whatorganisers have termed ‘a new era for Apprenticeships’: quality, growth,pride and value.

Ministers have also announced that activity to boost skills in 2012 willinclude the first national Skills Show: a UK-only version of WorldSkillsLondon, which saw 200,000 young people visit the biggest skills competi-tion, careers and jobs event ever staged in the country last October. Furtherdetails of the Skills Show 2012, which will take place at the NEC inBirmingham from 15th-17th November, will be announced soon.

Speaking at the launch event in Parliament, Minister for Skills, JohnHayes MP (above), said: "These young people are an inspiration to anyonelooking to break in to their chosen industry. They show how the gold stan-dard training in the apprenticeship programme can be a launch pad forcareers across all sectors.”

"This exciting new campaign will spread the word that apprenticeshipsnot only deliver the skills businesses need in order to grow, they also enablepeople to build long, fulfilling and productive careers. We are committedto making it easier for employers to take on trainees, in part by cuttingbureaucracy, raising quality standards and providing cash incentives tosmall firms who want to take on apprentices."

Jaine Bolton, Director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said:“Encouraging more people to take up quality Apprenticeships is absolutelyvital in equipping young people with the skills they need for the future –and the skills that Britain needs to grow. Quite simply, there has neverbeen a better time to offer or take an Apprenticeship and our campaign willhelp ensure this is known across the country.”

Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk for further details.

EDITOR’S COMMENT Campaign to promote apprenticeships

“Undertaking research for this issue of TSJ I cameacross many successful community arts projects,specifically mosaics. This set me thinking about justhow effective such projects are at both helping todefine a community and - perhaps more importantly- to modify the inhabitants’ attitudes to “their“physical community.

As a general supporter of 'The Arts' I've come to thebelief that interacting with art can change people’sattitudes and that “Art” carries far more value thanmost people think. However, I think that modern

society has compartmentalised “Art” to such an extent that it now struggles to fillthe role to which it is ideally suited.

Art helps to build healthy communities by challenging preconceptions,encouraging inter-personnel connections and facilitating interaction.

Community projects, such as public mosaics, draw members of the communitytogether on a recurring basis to experience art in action, either throughparticipation or as spectators. Project members get to know each other duringthe project, thereby becoming a small, supportive, community. They then sharewhat they have experienced with friends and family, spreading the benefits.

The interaction comes from the community’s critical reaction to the final work.Opinions will be voiced, discussions started and debates developed. Sharing anon-partisan event, like the design and construction of a community mural, allowsnon-threatening interactions to take place between what may otherwise bemutually-antagonistic religious, racial, political or economic groups. The dialoguegenerated around the community art project can help, in the future, should moreconfrontational differences need to be diffused.

Mosaic is becoming a more and more popular way for communities to define andproject their image. Why not put out some feelers locally - through schools,voluntary organisations or local councils - and see if there is a community artproject that you, as a member of the UK tiling fraternity, can help?”

Joe Simpson

NEWS IN BRIEFA redundant electricity substation is to be demolishedon land earmarked for a new retail park in Stoke thatcould create more than 600 jobs. Johnson Tiles's par-ent company, Norcros, has applied to knock down thesubstation at the firm's former Highgate Works site inTunstall. The application to Stoke-on-Trent CityCouncil states: "The building is considered to be a haz-ard with the potential to attract trespassers on to thesite." Supermarket chain Morrisons wants to build anew store at the 13-acre site, off Brownhills Road. Theplans also include a petrol station, seven non-foodshops and two restaurants. Up to 350 jobs would becreated at the Morrisons store and petrol stationalone, with a further 180 during construction andaround 100 more at the other units. The site has beenvacant since Johnson Tiles moved its HQ to HarewoodStreet in 1999.

Italian tile maker Cooperativa Ceramica d’Imola said ithas officially renamed the company CooperativaCeramica d’Imola, North America.��The new name isa result of the reorganization of the North Americandivision of Cooperativa Ceramica d’Imola based inImola, Italy.��The new structure is designed to allowCooperativa Ceramica d’Imola to better serve andrespond to the growing North Americanmarket.��The company said it is strengthening its dis-tributor and designer support system with a dedicat-ed customer service team already located at the NorthAmerican headquarters in Miami.

Jet Edge, Inc., a leadingmanufacturer of ultra-high pressure waterjetand abrasivejet systemsfor precision cutting,coating removal and sur-face preparation, is nowposting used waterjetequipment for sale on itswebsite. Jet Edge’s used

water jet equipment inventory includes ultra-highpressure water jet intensifier pumps, waterjet motionsystems, waterjet parts and accessories, and mobilewaterjet cleaning and cutting equipment. Jet Edge’swaterjet intensifier pumps feature a reliable tie-roddesign. W: www.jetedge.com

Florida Tile recently announced that it has achievedcertification by Bureau Veritas for inclusion of 40%pre-consumer recycled content across all porcelainproducts made in its Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, facili-ty. Florida Tile reports it has been committed to sus-tainable manufacturing practices for decades andnow, as part of the CARES (Creating A ResponsibleEnvironmental Strategy) program, those practiceshave been third-party tested and verified. For moreinformation, visit www.floridatile.com.

RAK to sponsor Sussex PGA Centenary Pro-Am

Cover Story: Mapei’s Ultralite Rapid Flex S1 is quick to apply and set

5MARCH 2012 TSJ

NEWS & COMMENT

RAK Ceramics is sponsoring a specialfundraising centenary Pro-Am in conjunc-tion with the Sussex Professional GolfersUnion. The Pro-Am will take place on 25thApril, followed by the SPGU Pro only eventon 26th April: both to be held at CowdrayPark Golf Club, in Midhurst. All fundsraised will be in aid of Macmillan CancerSupport and the Snowdrop Trust. Over 100 players will take part in this

prestigious Pro-Am event; teams will con-sist of three amateurs with a Sussex PGAprofessional. As title sponsor, the line-upwill include two teams from Petersfield-based RAK Ceramics. RAK will also host the19th hole marquee situated next to theclubhouse; special highlights will includewine tasting hosted by Petworth-based

Upperton Vineyards, plus presentations ofRAK Ceramics myriad of bathroom andkitchen products.Rob Jull, RAK Ceramics Managing

Director commented: “It is a great pleasurefor RAK Ceramics to support an event ofthis importance at the stunningly beautifulCowdray Park Golf Club. Our chosen char-ities have strong links with Midhurst and Iam sure a great two days are in store foreveryone.”For further information on the centenary

Pro-Am, contact Cowdray Park Golf Clubon 01730 813599 or email enquiries@cow-draygolf.co.uk. For more information about RAK

Ceramics and the event, contact 01730237850 or visit www.rakceramics.co.uk

This month’s front cover illustrates the extra coverage gained when using Mapei’s new high yield, flexible(S1), low dust adhesive; Ultralite Rapid Flex S1. In their 75th anniversary year, Mapei demonstrate theircontinued ability and flair to create innovative, first rate products. The new adhesive, which covers approximately 60% more sq. metres per Kg than conventional Mapei

powder adhesives, offers great value with its extra coverage. It is also lightweight, which in combinationwith its greater coverage reduces transport costs and the strain of manual lifting. Ultralite Rapid Flex S1provides additional significant environmental credentials – containing >30% of recycled materials as wellas possessing Low Dust technology; ideal where dust levels must be kept to a minimum. It is also classifiedto BS EN 12004 by Ceram as C2FT S1. Ultralite Rapid Flex S1 also boasts significant installation advantages. Its innovative formula ensures it is

effortless to mix and apply and offers high grab and non-slip properties. It can be utilised with a bed depthof up to 15 mm providing a powerful adhesive bond and excellent ‘wetting out’ capabilities. Ultralite RapidFlex S1 is also rapid setting, with tiled finishes ready to grout after only three hours.Ultralite Rapid Flex S1 is ideal to fix ‘thin’ porcelain tiles in addition to standard ceramic, vitrified and

porcelain tiles, mosaics and natural stone tiles to a wide variety of substrate types including concrete,sand:cement and calcium sulphate screeds and existing tiles. Ideal for application on dry or wet duty instal-lations including showers and swimming pools, it is also suitable in interior and exterior areas including bal-conies and terraces. It is ideal in both domestic and commercial settings and can be used in conjunction withunder floor heating.For more Mapei product information, or for your local stockist, please call 0121 508 6970. Technical data

sheets can be found online at www.mapei.co.uk.

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 5

Saint-Gobain Weber has witnessed substantialsales growth in tile fixing and floor levellingcompounds. Since the introduction of LowDust Technology (LDT) in 2009, an advancedformulation applied to Weber.Set Rapid SPFtile adhesive and more recently to Weber.FloorFlex levelling compound, sales have increasedto an unprecedented level. LDT has beenadded to the original products after rigorousresearch, development and investment bySaint-Gobain Weber. The addition of LDT dra-matically reduces airbourne dust created during pouring and mixing, while maintaining all ofthe original benefits to the contractor.“Month on month sales gains indicate that our distributor network has taken this new tech-

nology on board and are really behind it,” says James Mead, Head of Product Management,Saint-Gobain Weber. “Equally tile fixers and flooring contractors are experiencing first hand thereal benefits of these easy to apply, labour saving and technically superior products.”Weber.Set Rapid SPF with LDT is a rapid setting, flexible cement-based floor and wall adhesive

suitable for interior and exterior use. Ready for light foot traffic and grouting after only twohours, it is available in light grey and white, and packaged in 20kg paper sacks. It can be usedto fix all ceramic, porcelain and natural stone floor and wall tiles. It is also perfectly suited tounder-floor heating applications and on wooden floors that have been over-boarded. The high performance Weber.Floor Flex is a cement-based, self-smoothing, fibre-modified,

rapid-setting floor levelling screed with the added benefit of LDT. It is ideally used for correctingirregularities on difficult surfaces including wood, concrete slabs, ceramic tiles, floating floorsand with underfloor heating. Weber.Floor Flex with LDT is suitable for interior use only, canbuild up to 50mm and offers excellent bond strengths even to difficult substrates. It is ready forlight foot traffic after just three hours.“These products have always been popular, but in the new formulation, with Low Dust

Technology, tile applicators and flooring contractors really don’t want to use anything else,”continues James Mead. The company’s manufacturing site at Flitwick, Bedfordshire, is one of the few factories in

Europe with the capacity to manufacture low dust fibre modified products with total consistencyand quality assurance. Local manufacture also affords the shortest route to market.08703 330070 www.netweber.co.uk

BASF’s UK Construction Chemicals division created an eye-catching optical illusion with its exhi-bition stand at the Surface Design Show. The stand highlighted surface preparation systemsand floor finishes from the company’s PCI and Mastertop brands at the leading event for archi-tects and interior designers.The stand theme stressed the importance of good preparation in achieving an excellent fin-

ish, highlighting the fact that the company has the product range to assist at every stage. “I felt we enjoyed tremendous exposure across all business lines and I was delighted with

both the quality of the sales leads and how busy the exhibition was,” stated Business Manager,Michael Hailwood. “The consistent attendance by visitors from both retail and commercial backgrounds was

excellent, and there was genuine interest in the BASF product offering, as well as new exposurefor us. Ours was the only stand of its kind exhibiting full system build ups and it illustrated ourbreadth of range perfectly,” added Jane Seymour, Project Design Manager.www.pci.basf.co.uk

CORRECTION: In TSJ, January, Page 45 the photograph, below left, was incorrectly captioned as“Above: Some of the different components that makeup Schlüter-Kerdi-Shower.” In fact, the photographshowed PCI Pecilastic U: a universal membrane for iso-lating, crack bridging, impact sound reducing andwaterproofing all in one, especially developed for useunder floor coverings made from ceramic and mosaictiles, as well as natural stones. The membrane can beused for almost any application in both indoor andoutdoor areas.

Advanced digital printing technology used in volume tile manufacturingalso enables limited edition designs and images to be seamlessly repro-duced onto a ceramic surface. One recent example of this is the ventilatedcurtain wall system that was installed by Tau Ceramica at The RoyalAcademy of Arts in Tyumen, Russia. This striking rainscreen consists of 1,080 pieces, each one different, depict-ing an allegorical scene of the foundation of the city. This digital printingtechnology is surprisingly affordable, as artisanal skill and pictorial beautyare united with the accuracy and speed of industrial production.

BASF showcases build-up concept at SDS

TSJ MARCH 20126

NEWS & COMMENT

Weber reports significant sales growth in newlow dust tile fixing and floor levelling compounds

HMRC targets building trades to recoup unpaid taxHM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced that in 2012 it willtarget tradespeople working in the home improvement market givingthem an opportunity to come forward and declare unpaid tax. Thecampaign builds on previous initiatives aimed at plumbers and electri-cians, and will include hundreds of thousands of tradespeople in con-struction and building work such as tiling, roofing and joinery.Mark Herson, Private Client Tax Director at James Cowper comments:

“HMRC’s similar campaign to secure payments from plumbers has sofar generated close to £4 million, so it is no surprise they are utilisingsimilar tactics with builders. HMRC are using increasingly sophisticatedsoftware to identify those who are not paying sufficient tax and thechances of going undetected are therefore diminishing.”“Tradespeople who suspect their tax affairs are not completely up-to-

date would be well-advised to take the disclosure opportunity,” contin-ues Herson. “This could be the underdeclaration of income, overclaimof expenses or something unrelated to their business. We recommendthat those who believe they might owe tax seek advice from anaccountant or tax adviser before making a declaration. This way thebill for tax, interest and penalties can be kept to a minimum.”

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 6

French building materials group St Gobain has expressed a cautiousoutlook for 2012 after reporting a hike in 2011 profits achieved bypassing the rising cost of raw materials to customers."We are targeting moderate organic growth [for 2012], drivenmainly by the increase in sales prices needed to offset the rise in rawmaterial and energy costs, while operating income and profitabilityshould prove resilient," stated Chief Executive, Pierre-Andre deChalendar.St Gobain, which produces a wide range of materials includinginsulation, roofing, glass bottles and plastic film used in e-readers,posted organic growth of 5% in 2011. The pace of acquisitions is alsoexpected to be slower this year than in 2011 as the company awaitsanti-trust green light for two recent deals.Net profit in 2011 rose 13.7% to Euro1.28 billion, while salesincreased by 5% to Euro42.12 billion, bolstered by price increases tocustomers that offset rising raw material prices and energy costs.Excluding capital gains and losses on disposals, asset write-downsand provisions, net profit rose 30% to Euro1.736 billion. St Gobain ispaying a cash dividend of Euro1.24 for 2011.

St Gobain cautious despite 13.7% rise in profits

NEWS & COMMENT

8 TSJ MARCH 2012

David Stott, of Tyldesley-based EliteTiling, has been named Tiler of theMonth by TilerWorld, the free website for tilers and their customers. Hewas chosen for his tiling quality andhigh standards of customer service,shown by reviews posted onTilerWorld. Stott carries out all types of tilingthroughout the North-West: bath-rooms, kitchens, conservatories andmore. This includes tiling with naturalstone, Victorian flooring, mosaics andunderfloor heating. His customers would endorse theTilerWorld award, evidenced by theircomments on the site. Typical isMandy from Manchester who said:“Fantastic job, very impressed withthe whole bathroom. He is also veryclean and tidy, polite and happy toanswer any question.”

David Stott is modest about the acclaim and praised TilerWorld: “Itis great to have a site that’s free for both tilers and customers andthere’s no better way for consumers to compare their local tilers. Itcompares well with a site currently being advertised where trades-people pay to register, then pay for leads. For customers, an extraTilerWorld bonus is that they can win back the cost of their tiling.”A customer using a TilerWorld rated tiler can submit their own rat-

ing, with the incentive of a free prize draw. Each month, one winsthe value of their tiling up to a £1,000 maximum. The ratings are akey reason for TilerWorld‘s continuing growth. A consumer can listup to 20 local professionals, compare other customers’ ratings andrequest quotes for their own tiling from up to five tilers. As well ascomparing ratings, consumers can see photographs of their work.www.tilerworld.com

MADELEINE HARRINGTON

“With Cevisama over and nobodythat I met feeling particularlypositive about the prospects for2012, I thought it would be agood time to look at the statisticsfor 2011.

As usual all figures are based onthe UK government tradestatistics and are for the value in £sterling rather than volume. The

commodity codes do not split out paving slabs so they areincluded as well.

Overall imports into the UK continued to decline slightly by0.8% although this is a much lower rate than in recent years.Spain and Italy also saw a slowing down of the rate ofdecline at 1.2% and 5.3% respectively.

The biggest loser was China with a drop of 47.9% due nodoubt to the EU anti-dumping measures kicking in.Interestingly the figures for unglazed ceramic into whichporcelain falls actually show a 50% increase in importswhereas the glazed ceramic imports fell by 68%. So it looksas though people have switched their supplies of thecheaper gres products to other countries whereasporcelain still represents good value for money even withthe anti-dumping measures.

As far as exports were concerned, overall they were up by14.5% a reversal from the year before when they declinedby 10.1%. This was due to increases to the EU and NorthAmerican markets which have traditionally been thebiggest buyers of UK tiles.

According to the Ceramic World Review the market in GreatBritain was 51 million sq. million in 2010, slightly up from 50million in 2009, and 83.8% of that total was made up ofimports. Again according to the CWR the number of squaremetres imported in 2010 was 43 million meaning that theaverage price per square metre was £6.47.

If we take the same percentage of imports for value as forvolume it gives us a total market value for the UK of £330million in 2011 at factory gate/landed prices, a massivedecline since the recession hit in 2007, but it seems that thefall is bottoming out and perhaps the worst is now over.Let’s hope so.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of the statisticsplease visit my website www.mcmh.co.uk or contact me onthe email below.”

Madeleine Harrington is a director of McMullin HarringtonLimited, a marketing consultancy specialising in the tileand stone industry. She can be contacted onmadeleine@mcmh.co.uk.

Tyldesley tiler named Tiler of the Month

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 8

Norcros Plc, the adhesive, showers and ceramic tile group, hasannounced that full-year adjusted profit will be slightly below its priorexpectations due to weakness in its major markets. The company report-ed that revenue for the 18-week period that ended 5th February, fell 3.1%on a reported basis, and rose 0.9% on a constant currency basis. Thisleaves year to date Group revenues 5.6% higher on a constant currencybasis and 4.2% higher on a reported basis than last year. “Market conditions in the UK and South Africa were particularly chal-

lenging in December reflecting the earlier and longer than expectedChristmas shutdowns in our major markets. However, Group revenues in January showed some improvementand we are confident that we have maintained our leading positions in our core markets. Revenues in our UKbusinesses for the 18 week period were 3.0% lower than last year, with year to date revenues 4.7% higher thanlast year,” stated the company.Johnson Tiles, the UK manufacturer and supplier of ceramic tiles, saw revenues for the 18 week period

increase by 1.1% year-on-year. For the first time, the comparable period last year includes the full revenueeffect of the demise of Pilkington’s Tiles in June 2010. Year to date revenues are 10.3% higher. UK revenuesfor the 18 week period were 1.0% higher with share gains in retail outweighing a marginal revenue decline intrade business. Export revenues were 1.7% higher with supply constraints noted in our interim results begin-ning to be overcome.The Triton shower business saw revenues for the 18 week period decline by 7.8% versus the comparable peri-

od last year. However, trade revenues in January rebounded strongly helped by a major product launch.Revenues in the UK adhesives business for the 18 week period were 5.0% higher than the comparable period

last year, with year to date revenues 20.6% higher. Housebuilder and other national contract specification winsnoted in Norcros’ Interim report have helped drive further UK market share gains in the 18 week period.Johnson Tiles South Africa, a tile manufacturing operation, saw third party revenues on a constant currency

basis 20.3% higher reflecting increased business in the DIY retail segment. Encouraging signs of progress havealso been made in manufacturing performance in January 2012 where the benefits of recent managementchanges and investment in process improvements are beginning to show through.Revenues at Norcros’ retail operation, Tile Africa, increased by 6.6% on constant currency basis. This was driv-

en by price increases and the continuing benefits of the store refurbishment and operational improvementprogrammes.TAL, Norcros’ South African adhesive business, saw third party revenues grow 19.0% on a constant currency

basis, and, as with Johnson Tiles South Africa, has secured additional business with a leading DIY retailer.“Since the announcement of our interim results in November 2011 consumer confidence has become weak-

er and market conditions more challenging. Trading profit for the year is anticipated to be marginally belowthe Board's previous expectations although lower cash finance costs and a lower effective tax rate should offsetany shortfall. The Board remains confident that through the ongoing self help programmes and growth initia-tives Norcros will continue to gain market share and make solid progress,” the report concludes.Norcros shares have lost about 30% of their value in the last eight months.

NEWS & COMMENT

10 TSJ MARCH 2012

Norcros expect full-year profitswill fall short of expectations

JOSS THOMAS

“Over the last fewseasons, large formattiles have been verypopular. As with mosttrends, I was expectingthis to change at somestage but, if anything,demand is gettinggreater.

As well as large squaretiles, rectangular

formats seem to be proving popular too - if notmore so. Even in small areas, like bathrooms, bigtiles are being chosen instead of standard 305 by305mm tiles. Mainstay stones, like Opus Romanopatterns, are proving slow, compared to 900 by600mm formats. Many customers are using themon their own; others are using larger formats tocreate random length effects with straight groutlines, so that surfaces carry you through a space -and the end result can look fabulous.

In design terms, larger formats certainly create amore contemporary look and a feeling of space –and they keep grout lines to a minimum. As somany homes have more open plan areas, stonetiles are now being used throughout larger,continuous spaces, rather than different floorcoverings being chosen for different rooms. Thishas to be good in terms of sales but it has thrownup a whole host of new considerations forsuppliers, tilers and customers.

One of the main concerns is thickness. Whilst it’slargely dependent on the density of the actualstone, many manufacturers are offering 900 by600mm formats that are just 12mm thick. If thesubfloor is perfect and where the stone is beddedcorrectly, this may be fine, but personally I preferanything over a 600 by 400mm to be 15mm thick.

Suppliers also need to think carefully aboutpackaging and delivery, as tiles of this size aremore likely to move around in a pallet, which canresult in either the framework collapsing or thetiles getting damaged.

From both a tiler’s and customer’s point of view,floors intended to accommodate this size stoneneed to be flat – especially if it’s a fully rectified tilebeing laid. If a floor isn’t level, it’s certainly mucheasier to take out the undulations using a smallersize tile, than it is a super sized stone!”

For more information, call 01993 824200 oremail enquiries@indigenousltd.com.

Ancora Group has won the contract to supply equipment for the Euro-Ceramics facil-ity in Pechory as part of a programme to start up production of polished full-bodyporcelain tile. The company, one of Russia's leading ceramic tile producers, has com-missioned Ancora to supply a complete polishing line consisting of a roughingmachine, two polishing machines, a score-and-snap machine, two squaring andchamfering units and a dryer. The installed line is able to produce sizes up to 600 by 1,200mm and also create

submultiples, including listellos. The investment will enable the Russian ceramiccompany to take the important step of converting to porcelain tile production inresponse to growing demand from its domestic market."Russia has shown good tenacity, even during the most difficult times for the inter-

national economy," says Ancora Group's Vice Chairman Fabio Corradini. "Our Grouphas continued to achieve good results in the Russian and Eastern European markets,as this order goes to show."Ancora is the largest third party production centre in the world for polishing, lap-

ping, cutting and grinding of ceramic tiles.

Ancora supplies Euro-Ceramics new porcelain tile plant

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 10

NEWS & COMMENT

12 TSJ MARCH 2012

Surface care specialist, Fila has creat-ed a new, exclusive club for tileinstallers. The Professional InstallersClub will help support businessesand reward loyalty with a wide pack-age of rewards and benefits.Membership will be open toinstallers throughout the UK andIreland.Branded ‘Maestro Trattatore’(‘Professional Installers’) to reflectFila’s Italian roots, the Professional

Installers Club aims to support fitters, promote best practice and increaseproduct knowledge. An ongoing training programme will include practi-cal workshops and refresher courses, exploring treatment systems, surfacecharacteristics and trouble shooting. Members will also have access totechnical and practical support from Fila product experts. Meanwhile, loy-alty will be rewarded with the launch of a tandem incentive scheme, pro-viding points for purchases which can be exchanged for gifts from Fila’sRewards’ Catalogue. In addition, members will also be able to benefit fromexclusive facilities and discounts for legal, commercial and insurance serv-ices, from Fila partner service companies.For more information and to become a Professional Installers Club mem-ber, please contact Lisa Breakspear at Fila UK on tel. 01584 877286, emailprofessionalinstallers@filachim.com or visit www.club.filachim.com.

Fila launches The Professional Installers Club ALAN REYNOLDS

“I was taken to task recently by afellow fixer and TSJ reader whowanted to know why I rarely dealwith tiling issues in my column. Iresponded by pointing out that thejournal regularly features technicalarticles written by experts coveringmany aspects of the fixing processwhereas I know enough about whatI do to scratch a living. Besides,writing about the mechanics of aworking day would drive me todistraction.

One of the consequences of working on your own is theamount of time you spend locked in your head thinking abouteverything and nothing. Once you open that tub of adhesivein the morning and the auto-pilot kicks in you’re off; timeceases to have any meaning, talking to yourself is a given,music from the radio fuses into background static and the onlyinterruption: command control with tea and biccies – if you’relucky. Is it any wonder we need a good forty minutes to comedown at the end of a day before we can hold a coherentconversation with the missus?

Writing about the thoughts that pass through my mind whilstI’m buttering the back of a large format tile is one of my fewremaining pleasures. It allows me to visit friends and placeslong since past or vent my spleen on the economicshenanigans that have driven big companies and sole tradersalike to the wall.

Maybe if I wasn’t such a thinker life would be a lot simpler.Non-thinkers are unencumbered with reminiscences, flights offancy or regrets. They answer questions readily enough butrarely ask them, keeping conversation and mental traffic to aminimum resulting in peace and contentment.

I know quite a few people thus blessed and I envy their blackand white take on life. I admire their self-discipline and I’mconvinced that if I could emulate them I would get a lot morework done.

But I digress. Someone asked about tiling issues. The onlything of any consequence that comes to mind is the ‘WarmupLoose Wire System’ I installed recently. In distant times ofplenty I gave electrical under-floor heating a wide birth as apoint of principal. Invariably the kit would have been suppliedby someone else who pocketed the mark-up leaving me with afew measly hours day-work and all the responsibility if theinstallation failed. More often than not the system would havealready been installed by an electrician who had forgotten toprime the floor or properly tape down the element.

Nowadays I don’t have that luxury which is why it was such arelief to come across the ‘Warmup System’. The clarity of thefitting instructions was hugely impressive and the kit simple toinstall. The spacing grid was particularly helpful consideringthe floor had more angles than a government spin doctor. Icould go on but I don’t want to embarrass them. Suffice to saythat, whilst I didn’t earn anything extra for installing thesystem, I did at least get the tiling job.”

Alan Reynolds is the proprietor of Wilmslow Ceramic Tiling.01625 434093 alan.reynolds23@ntlworld.com.

The Stafford Francesco Group salon has reopenedfollowing an extension project completed usingprimer, leveller, adhesive and grout from therenowned Ultra Floor and Ultra Tile brands.

Stylish salon brand, Francesco Group commis-sioned Stafford Tiles and Flooring Solutions tocomplete the 150 sq. metre extension. The exist-ing substrate required levelling before the tilingcould commence; Saber Systems were subcon-

tracted to carry out this work. Both companies are long-standing Instarmac customers and regularlychoose to use products from Ultra Floor and Tile. The sub-floor preparation carried out by SaberSystems Ltd. included priming with Ultra Floor Prime IT AR and the application of Level IT one HDB.Ultra Floor Prime IT AR is an acrylic polymer emulsion primer suited for use over porous substratessuch as concrete and sand/cement screeds. It will prepare the surface, enhancing adhesion and seal-ing it. The bond strength of subsequent cement based levelling compounds and similar cementitiousunderlayments to the surface will then be dramatically improved, enhancing durability. Ultra Floorprimers are easy to use and safe to apply, and boast fast drying times.

Ultra Floor Level IT one HDB is a self-levelling base compound designed to smooth undulations incementitious floor substrates. It has a working time of 20 to 30 minutes and will set within 2 to 3 hours.It can be applied at thicknesses from 3 to 50mm and a 25kg bag covers an optimum 5 sq. metres at3mm. The product is protein and ammonia free, shrinkage compensated and polymer modified.

Stafford Tiles and Flooring Solutions then fitted porcelain floor tiles using Ultra Tile ProRapid RS, arapid setting adhesive expertly formulated with exceptional bond strength and flexibility. The adhe-sive can be applied at a bed thickness of between 3 to 12mm on walls or floors. It has an open timeof 40 minutes and is set after just two hours drying time.

Ultra Tile FlexJoint in limestone was used to grout the floor. It’s a product suitable for joint widthsfrom 1mm to 20mm. FlexJoint is specially formulated to provide a hygienic finish that is mould resist-ant and water repellent.Stafford Tiles and Flooring Solutions E: sales@stafstiling.co.ukUltra Tile W: www.ultratileadhesives.co.uk.

Top hair salon gets the Ultra Tile treatment

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 12

NEWS & COMMENT

14 TSJ MARCH 2012

A 3D image of two red tiles leaning against each other to form a roof symbolising the worldof architecture and interior design is the design concept that will be used for the 2012 editionof Cersaie, the international exhibition of ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings which isscheduled for 25th to 29th September 2012. The image for the 30th edition of the show wascreated by Grazia Piccininno, a student attending the degree course in Event Design,Management and Communication at the University of Genoa’s architecture faculty.A simple but powerful idea that underscores ceramic tile’s increasingly important ability to

adapt to the most varied demands of the market, the poster design originates from the com-petition Beautiful Ideas. Based on the concept of Ceramic Evolution, it explores ceramic tilein terms of an increasingly rapid evolutionary process that nonetheless revisits the composi-tional languages of the past.Cersaie 2011 covered 176,000 sq. metres, hosted 965 exhibitors (including 265 foreign com-

panies from 31 different countries) and attracted 113,165 visitors, 0.8% up on 2010. Thesefigures confirm Cersaie as the leading international exhibition for ceramic tiles and bathroomfurnishings. Visit www.cersaie.it for more information.

Movement joints benefit new medical facility

Ceramic roof image set to brand 30th Cersaie

A new medical facility which is set to make the North East of England a world leader in organ transplants has been builtusing market leading tiling protection products from Schlüter-Systems. The new Institute of Transplantation atNewcastle’s Freeman Hospital is a £30 million premises which will substantially increase the number of life-savingtransplants in the region. Whilst patients, family, friends and employees walking through the centre’s main receptionand atrium area can expect the highest quality of organ transplants, what they won’t know is they will be walking onthe highest quality of tiling protection products after movement joints from the Schlüter-Dilex range were installed byP Plunkett Tiling Contractors, based in Northumberland.

Geoff Williams, Managing Director at P Plunkett, comments: “This project saw us install movement joints fromSchlüter-Systems over four months at this new medical facility and we’re very pleased to be involved in the construc-tion of such an important building for the north-east. What we particularly like about Schlüter-Systems is that theirproducts are so readily available. Such is their vast range that you can easily source any size of product you require andhave bespoke packages tailored to your individual project requirements.”

Ian Knifton, Divisional Manager at Schlüter-Systems, comments: “The Institute of Transplantation is a state-of-the-art medical premises that will provide hundreds of organ transplants for patients each year, as well as attracting theleading medical professionals from all over the world. Not only will the multi-million pound project see the use of cut-ting edge medical technology but it already features cutting edge tiling technology after the installation of movementjoints from our Schlüter-Dilex range. These offer secure protection for surfaces subjected to high mechanical stressescaused by continuous use, making it particularly ideal for busy locations such as this atrium and reception.”

Movement joints from the Schlüter-Dilex range offer secure edge protection and maintenance free solutions for sur-faces exposed to continuous pedestrian and vehicular traffic. All profiles are installed at the same time as the tile cov-ering and a wide variety in various material combinations are available, depending on the mechanical or chemicalstresses expected on the covering.

The new Institute of Transplantation at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle will incorporate cardiothoracic transplant sur-gery, general transplant surgery and renal transplant surgery all under one roof and will also include four large oper-ating theatres, a 300-bed ward, an outpatient unit and a training lecture theatre. P Plunkett Tiling Contractors 01661 836 960 www.plunketttiling.co.uk.Schlüter-Systems 01530 813396 www.schluter.co.uk.

LISA BREAKSPEAR “Quarry tiles are a popularsurface option both indoorsand outside. Made from clayor shale, they’re available in arange of earthy tones, frombeige to dark red. To protectthe whole surface andpromote easy maintenance, aseries of simple steps shouldbe taken: and always followthe product manufacturer’srecommendations carefully.

A pre-seal isn’t necessary on unglazed quarry tiles but pre-grouting protectors provide added benefits. Water-repellent protectors, like Fila’s PRW200, are designed togive protection between laying and grouting, and theymake the removal of grout residues much easier. They alsospeed-up drying time after the initial wash - and othersubsequent treatment stages too.

Acid cleaning products should be used for the initial clean.Always look out for a ‘buffered’ acid formulation, like FilaDeterdek, as these products don’t give off harmful fumesand won’t damage aluminium or steel trims and profiles.Detergents like Deterdek also remove grout residues whilstcleaning the surface. Remember to give products a fewminutes to act, before using a green pad or sponge toremove residue, and then rinse with clean water.

The importance of this initial wash should never beunderestimated. It removes residues of adhesive, groutand accumulated dirt. If it isn’t performed correctly, theapplication of subsequent protective treatments will beseverely compromised.

In terms of sealing an unglazed quarry tiled floor, qualitywater-based products provide lots of benefits. They’reodourless, require a shorter drying time and have less of anenvironmental impact. Natural impregnators, like Fila W68,provide resistance to stains without compromising thenatural look of the tile. Outdoors, I’d strongly recommendapplication of a water-repellent formulation; Fila optionsinclude water-based HP98, or Fila ES82 which can beapplied prior to application of solvent-based Filafob foradditional stain protection. Indoors, wax finishes can alsobe applied, to give a natural, satin, shiny or high-shineeffect.

In terms of ongoing maintenance, pH-neutral cleaningproducts should always be used. They will lengthen the lifeof the impregnators and finishes and will ensure that thequarry remains protected, in terms of practicality, longevityand aesthetics. Normal household cleaners will break-down the surface protection provided and cause surfacestaining. ”

Lisa Breakspear is Sales & Technical Director of Fila UK.For more information on Fila’s range of surface careproducts, please contact Fila UK on 01584 877286 or visitwww.filachim.com.

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 14

NEWS & COMMENT

16 TSJ MARCH 2012

NEWS IN BRIEF NEWS IN BRIEF NEWSBuilder’s merchant chain Jewson has offered to sell off 22 branches to ease competition con-cerns raised by its recent acquisition of rival merchants Build Center. Jewson, part of Frenchmulti-national Saint-Gobain, has 510 general builder's merchants in the UK operating underthe Jewson and Gibbs & Dand' brands, against Build Center's 149 branches, trading primarilyunder the Build Center brand. The OFT concluded that the merger would not give rise to com-petition concerns nationally because sufficient competitors would remain in the market.However, it did consider that the deal raised substantial competition concerns in 22 local areasin England, Wales and Scotland. This was because there were few remaining general builder’smerchants in these local areas and the OFT was concerned that builders and other tradesmenmight see an increase in prices for building materials as a result. In order to address these con-cerns, Jewson has offered undertakings to divest at least one branch in each of the 22 affectedlocal areas to restore pre-merger competition levels.

RAK Ceramics has expanded its sales team with Ian Cunningham and AlvinBiggs joining the Petersfield-based firm from within the bathroom sector,bringing a wealth of industry experience to their new sales roles. Business SalesManager, Ian Cunningham (top left) joins with 20 years’ experience gained atnational merchants, independents, distribution and manufacturing companies.In his new role, Cunningham will work within the national merchant and keyaccount sector. He will promote RAK’s extensive portfolio, with an emphasis ontiles, shower enclosures, mirrors and sanitaryware. Alvin Biggs (left) joins RAK from Sloegrin and Dietsche UK, bringing 8 years’experience gained in senior sales management and marketing positions. In hisnew role as Sales Development Manager – Merchant Sales, Biggs will estab-lish a nationwide distribution and retail network for showers, mirrors and cab-inets, as well as unbranded RAK sanitaryware, for Rob Jull Agencies.Rob Jull, Managing Director commented: “Last year was a fabulous one for theRAK brand, with sales increasing by 30%. With the introduction of a myriadof new products, and the expansion of our dedicated sales team, we’re looking

to exceed our customers’ expectations even further; in terms of both quality and design, as well as closesales support to our industry partners; the backbone of our business.”

The Tile Association has announce that it has been awarded funding of up to £75,000 byConstruction Skills to further qualify the workforce within the industry. The ‘Qualifying theWorkforce Funding’ is available from Construction Skills to Trade Associations and Unions thatrepresent a directly employed workforce of over 5,000 people, or with an ability to influence alarger non-employed workforce. The funding is there to support TTA members in the tile fixingand retail sectors seeking a level 2 or higher NVQ in Wall & Floor Tiling or the new Tile RetailDiploma at a rate of £450 per employee.TTA is also offering £2,000 in funding to Tile Fixingmembers who successfully employ an apprentice who completes their apprenticeship andachieve an NVQ level 2. The £2,000 is paid over a two year period and is in addition to the fund-ing the employer can receive from Construction Skills. www.tiles.org.uk

Art on Tiles, the bespoke hand painted tile company, is planning a weekend tilepainting course for 28th and 29th July at the Art on Tiles studio near Arundel inWest Sussex.Starting with blank, unglazed ceramic tiles, attendees will learn all the tech-

niques needed to create single-décor tiles in the Delft tradition whilst taking ina brief history of this fascinating and enduringly fashionable craft.Skills taught include, glazing, pricking out and transferring designs and the

fairly exacting demands of painting onto raw glaze using the traditional naturalpigments. A huge range of designs is available to choose from, many in the most recognisable blue cre-ated by cobalt on white tin-glaze, and some in a wider range of soft, natural colours which are also tra-ditional.Places are strictly limited and are available for £160 per person, including all materials, tools and

refreshments. To find out more and to book readers should go to http://www.artontiles.co.uk/hand-made-tiles-courses.

SEAN MCPHEAT

“If you had the chance to listen in tothe sales people who make the leastsales, and learn from them what notto do, would you take it? You bet yourGranddad's last Werther's Originalyou would!

I've been gathering information thatsums up what the worst sales peopleout there actually do, and it makessad, depressing, hands-in-the-air,can't-believe-it reading.

Here are the first three of the seven of the biggest mistakes salespeople make in trying to win business.

1. Fuzzy Preparation. It's amazing how many salespeople simplywing it and don't have the ability to state exactly what they areaiming for in the call. Imagine that the client says to you "In oneminute, tell me what benefits you can uniquely bring to mybusiness and how much better it will be if we partner up."

Could you do it? Yes, of course you could. Because you're well-prepared and your thinking is clear. You resist the temptation tosimply fly by the seat of your pants, because you know what wouldhappen if you did. You remember the saying ... "An amateurpractices until he gets it right; a professional practices until henever gets it wrong."

2. The second big mistake is having a poor structure to the call. Ifyou want the client to remember you, have some pearls of wisdomto discuss with your client at strategic points in the conversation.Get some ideas to illustrate your points. Paint those pictures withwords so the client knows exactly what you want them toremember afterwards. If you have a poor structure, they will getlost easily and have no inclination to take their interest further.

3. Mistake three is having nothing memorable to say. Have youever watched a film and the next day couldn't even remember thetitle? I have. Many times. I always say I won't make the samemistake again, and I'll read reviews before going. But I'm alwaysdriven by the trailer, grabbed by the highlights. Then I realise thatthe trailer had all the best bits and I have to sit through two otherhours of drivel.

Many salespeople make the mistake of just delivering drivel, withno highlights, nothing that stands out and makes the customerthink: "Wow, this is great, I have to know more about this!" Havesomething memorable in your delivery that stands out. Otherwisethe client will have to work it out for themselves. And that mightnot be possible. When asked "Who was that salesperson you sawyesterday, Frank?", you don't want them to say, "You know what, Idon't remember!"

Next issue I’ll cover major mistakes from Four though to Seven.

In the meantime, happy selling!”

Sean McPheat is Managing Director of MTD Training. For further information pleasecontact: 0800 849 6732 www.mtdsalestraining.com

TSJMar12p 4-16_News and comment 01/03/2012 09:35 Page 16

TTA NEWSLETTER

18 TSJ MARCH 2012

Judging is now underway on the entries forThe Tile Association Awards 2012. The short-list will be announced in the next few weeks.There has been a record number of entriesacross the 22 categories which celebrates thepeople, businesses, products and projects inthe tile industry.In the meantime places at the Awards

Dinner are selling fast. As always the eventpromises to be an exhilarating night of excite-ment. Whether you are an award winner ornot, you’ll experience the glitz and glamour ofLas Vegas!

Tickets to the 2012 TTA Awards Dinner areavailable at £125 each or just £995 for a tableof ten. Hotel rooms are available locally at specially

negotiated rates for guests attending the TTAAwards Dinner. Full details can be found in the Awards 2012

section of the TTA website www.tiles.org.uk.Book now to avoid disappointment.

Book your place for the TTA Awards

Web exposure continues to benefit TTA membersIn a difficult economic climate membership ofThe Tile Association continues to provide sup-port, benefits and work referrals for its mem-bers. At the end of 2011 website statistics for

www.tiles.org.uk highlighted the success ofthe ‘Directory’ and ‘Find a Member’ sections ofthe TTA website, with both continuing to ben-efit both consumers and TTA members.In 2011 hits to The Tile Association website

peaked at a staggering 831,905 per month,with over 304,374 visits to member’s pages.Average usage of the ‘Find a member’ sectionof the website increased year-on-year by anincredible 541%.In a recent TTA survey Steve Hughes of TTA

member Toms Tile and Stone commented:“The prime benefit I get from the TTA is workreferrals. In this day and age many are suspi-cious of traders they do not know and TTAlisting gives a high degree of confidence thatthey will get a quality job done. More andmore people are using the internet and theTTA website for this purpose.”It is evident that consumers continue to

benefit from the exceptional service providedby TTA members, and view The TileAssociation website as the first point of callwhen embarking on any tiling project.

In the 2011 survey, Nick Hackett of TTAmember Arrow Tiling said: “The main benefitfor Arrow Tiling being a member of TTA is theassurance customers have when they knowyou are an award winning member of a rep-utable governing body they can trust.”For over a decade The Tile Association has

represented the whole of the UK wall andfloor tile industry under one organisation. Ithas more than doubled in size since originallyformed and continues in Its mission is to pro-mote professionalism and technical stan-dards in the tiling industry, as well as providetechnical support to both members and theircustomers.

CE Marking of wall and floor tilesto become mandatory underConstruction Products RegulationIn July 2013 CE Marking of all constructionproducts, including wall and floor tiles, willbecome mandatory under the requirementsof the Construction Products Regulation. CE Marking will have an effect on all sectors

of the tile industry and it is important tounderstand the obligations of this new regu-lation so that you can plan ahead.To ensure its members understand the

changes to product certification and theimportance of slip testing, The TileAssociation will be hosting a seminar in con-junction with SATRA Technology Centre on

The Minoli Team being presented with the Award for Excellence in Distribution in 2011. The Tile Association website www.tiles.org.uk

TTA NEWSLETTER

20 TSJ MARCH 2012

the 30th May 2012 at SATRA TechnologyCentre, Kettering.

The seminar, entitled ‘Construction ProductsRegulation – Important changes to productcertification and an introduction to slip test-ing’ will be invaluable in achieving greaterunderstanding and awareness of the changesthe industry will be facing.

Slip, in particular, is an important character-istic of flooring products and althoughincluded within the essential requirements ofthe CPR a broader understanding of the dif-ferent methods available and how results areclassified will allow those attending to marketproducts more successfully.

There will be an opportunity for attendeesto see demonstrations of both the pendulumand the ramp after the seminar close at 15.00.

The cost to attend the Seminar is £80 plusVAT per person to include refreshments.Contact info@tiles.org.uk to receive a bookingform to reserve your place at this importantevent, which is exclusively open to TileAssociation Members only.

Tilezine reaches landmark1,000th subscriberTilezine, the e-news source published by TTA,has reached the milestone of 1,000 sub-scribers.

Since its launch less than two years ago,readership has grown from zero to 1005 read-ers with another 1500 visiting Tilezine's web-site every month to catch up on the latestindustry news.

Tilezine was launched with the aim of beinga free electronic newspaper for the tile indus-try and we are delighted that so many seeTilezine as THE place to find out latest news.

TTA exhibits at EcobuildThe Tile Association will be at Ecobuild, theworld’s biggest event for sustainable design,construction and the built, which runs atLondon’s ExCeL exhibition Centre from 20 –22 March 2012.

We look forward to welcoming you to ourstand S752

Many benefits of TTA membershipThe Tile Association offers a number of mem-bership benefits to all members. This is a listingof all the benefits on offer and how to make useof them.Credit information: Regular credit informa-

tion meetings are held in the north Midlandsand Surrey; details of which are issued to allManufacturer, Agent, FSO and Distributor mem-bers. Credit checks can be carried out for mem-bers FOC on request. The checking is carried outusing an online facility and information will besupplied by email only. If you prefer to under-take your own online credit checks RiskDiskoffer discounted credit checking facilities formembers. Contact them on 01623 869 882.Currency exchange: Competitive rates on

currency exchange when purchasing productfrom outside the UK. Contact Currency MattersLtd on 0800 458 6736 and provide your mem-bership number.Debit and credit card rates: Under an

arrangement with Barclays Merchant Servicesthe following rates are offered to TTA memberson debit/credit card machines: Terminal Rental£15 + VAT per month; 1.2% for personal cards,1.8% for company cards, and 20p per item.Existing Barclay’s customers should contacttheir local BMS helpline. Other members shouldcontact Barclays Merchant Services on 0800616161 quoting their TTA membership number.Directory and website listings: TTA mem-

ber’s names and contact information are listedin the TTA Directory and on the website, togeth-er with tile ranges and services offered.Member’s details are issued daily to potentialcustomers. Jan 2012Employment: TTA members can take advan-

tage of free advice on employment law, indus-trial relations, wage awards for specialist con-tractors, by telephoning Croner Consulting on0844 249 9873. Please say that you are a TTAmember when calling. You may be asked for apassword: contact the TTA office.General information: The TTA can offer help

and assistance with most matters relating torunning your business. Contact the TTA for help.Generic promotion: The Tile Association is

actively promoting the use of wall and floor tileto all tile customers. PR cover includes nationalpress, trade and consumer magazines, radio andTV programmes.Health and safety: For advice, please call the

health and safety helpline on 0844 249 9874.Please say you are a TTA member when callingand provide the required monthly password,available from the TTA office.Insurance: Under an arrangement with The

Clear Group, members can take advantage of

discounts in the region of 10-15% on the follow-ing insurances:• Public Liability for the self employed LatentDefects Insurance Performance Bonds PropertyPublic, Products & Employers Liability •Engineering Insurance for fork lift trucks, etc. • Commercial Vehicle/Fleet insurance MarineCargo Insurance• Commercial Legal Expenses

For further information contact Peter Crouchor Katie Magri on 02076182920. Please say youare a TTA member when calling. Non VAT-regis-tered fixers are eligible for £1m public liabilitycover. (This excludes members in N. Ireland).Proposal forms are available from the TTA office.Legal advice: Under an arrangement with

NSCC TTA members can have access to free legaladvice on any matters relating to their business-es. An initial telephone consultation will be freeof charge, further advice or help may be charge-able. For further information contact WedlakeBell on 08442499871. Ask for the NSCC helplineand provide the necessary monthly password,available from the TTA office.Retention recovery: Under an arrangement

with Stellar Recovery, TTA specialist contractorshave discounted rates on recovering Retentionsowed to them. For further information contactDarren Brook at Stellar Retention Recovery Ltd.Tel: 0844 335 8352 or email: darren@stellar-retentionrecovery.co.ukSector meeting: Meetings for all TTA sectors

are held around the country on an ad hoc basis.Details are issued as appropriate.Technical matters: Members can contact the

Tile Association for technical advice.Independent Technical Inspections can also beoffered at discounted rates by contacting theTTA office.

Tile & Stone Journal and Contract FlooringJournal

Copies of Tile & Stone Journal and ContractFlooring Journal are issued free of charged to allTTA Members. TTA administers the schemedirect with the publishers on member’s behalf.TTA publications: TTA members receive free

copies of the Annual TTA Directory and techni-cal publications that apply to their sector.PoS: Point of Sale material is also available.

Please contact TTA for a publications order form.

The Tile AssociationT: 020 8663 0946 F: 020 8663 0949E: info@tiles.org.ukW: www.tiles.org.uk

TSJMar12p18-20_TTA newsletter 01/03/2012 09:39 Page 3

In the third in a series of exclusive articles for TSJ, Abdulla Mahmood, Head ofMarketing & Communications at the world’s largest tile manufacturer, RAKCeramics, looks at the impact of the raw materials used in the manufacturingprocess on the technical performance and aesthetic appeal of tiles.

Today’s discerning tile buyers demand productsof the highest quality. They also demand vari-

ety and product ranges that keep pace with con-sumer trends. In order to fulfill these demands, theability to source quality raw materials is key toensuring that the product performs to the level ofexcellence required – and that it fulfils aestheticdemands too.One raw material that has a major influence on the

quality of a tile is the pigment. Pigments are used tocreate aesthetic decorative effects in ceramic tile sur-face glazes. In unglazed porcelain tiles, often knownas ‘through body’ tiles, colour pigments are usedthroughout the body of the tile.

Insoluble and inorganic, pigments are black, whiteor coloured they are mixed with a base glaze to createthe desired colouration. Premium quality materialsexhibit a number of important characteristics, includ-ing thermal and chemical stability, which ensure thata tile is durable and that tones are consistent. As well as achieving different aesthetics, different

pigments are used for different application environ-ments. They’re also selected according to their PHvalue, which defines their density, refractive index,hardness, colour and firing efficiency.Selecting the best quality pigment available is a

very challenging process, so quality-driven manufac-turers must be committed to making significant

Careful raw material selectionis the key to product performance

Above: RAK Ceramicsmanufactured and suppliedtiles and slabs for staircases,bathroom vanity units and

staircases for RadissonEdwardian Hotels’ 4 star MercerStreet Hotel refurbishment in

London’s Covent Garden.Paradox porcelain floor tiles,

with their highly contemporarysemipolished metallic finish,where chosen by the designerto add ambience and give a

luxury look to floorsthroughout the hotel.

DESIGN TRENDS

22 TSJ MARCH 2012

TSJMar12p22-24_feature 01/03/2012 09:40 Page 2

investments in this area. If poor quality pigments areused, major variations in tone can occur. Colours mayalso fade, especially in direct sunlight. The quality ofthe other raw materials will also have a great bearingon the end product. For example, clays, feldspar,quartz, sand and carbonates.

Obtaining raw materials from suppliers who main-tain their own mines and processing plants is theideal scenario, as quality standards can be carefullycontrolled. Having access to locally-sourced materi-als, such as clay and limestone, can also create signif-icant cost savings that can be passed on to the cus-tomer.

At RAK, we source our raw materials from Europe,the Far East, Asia and the UAE. Each supplier has topass stringent quality standards to ensure that we’reable to maintain our global track record in terms ofquality and performance.

All incoming raw materials must adhere to agreedand approved specifications. Before bulk orders areplaced with any supplier, we follow a meticulous pro-cedure that includes thoroughly studying the suppli-er’s profile and product specifications. The supplier isalso required to submit a small sample for prelimi-nary laboratory trials. If the material passes the rigor-ous lab tests, a larger quantity is requested for semi-industrial testing. If strict benchmarks are fulfilled, afull container is then ordered for final bulk commer-cial trials. It is only after this stage of negotiation thatbulk orders are placed, in accordance with ISO9001:2008 and in-house quality control and assur-ance standards.

As well as taking great care to ensure that all rawmaterials are premium quality, customer education isalso vital. Highlighting the importance of sourcingquality ingredients enables consumers to make theright purchasing decision. This, in turn, has afavourable impact on our industry as a whole -increasing expectations and reinforcing the impor-tance of quality throughout the supply chain.

Established in 1991, RAK Ceramics is the world's largestmanufacturer of ceramic and porcelain tiles. Its productportfolio also includes ceramic sinks, sanitary ware, brass-ware and acrylic baths, with products currently exportedto more than 150 countries.

For more information, contact Kevin Jackson, UK National Tile SalesManager, on 07891 475364 or email kevin.j@rakceramics.co.uk. OrRAK Ceramics UK: 01730 237850 www.rakceramics.co.uk

Top right Radisson EdwardianHotels, RAK Ceramics’ floortiles were used in Radisson

Edwardian Hotels Mercer StreetHotel refurbishment in

London’s Covent Garden.

Above: Modern tile productionis dependent on exacting raw

material standards.

DESIGN TRENDS

24 TSJ MARCH 2012

TSJMar12p22-24_feature 01/03/2012 09:40 Page 4

Products from the Schlüter-Schiene and Schlüter-Reno range of finishingthreshold profiles along with movement joints from the Schlüter-Dilexseries were recently installed around the stadium entrance, toilets andplayers changing rooms at Edgbaston cricket ground, offering the perfectprotection and ensuring England players and fans should be able to enjoythis summer’s matches against the West Indies, Australia and South Africawithout worrying that the tiling beneath their feet will disappoint.

Carl Stokes, Divisional Manager, says: “Thousands of cricket fans will beable to watch the England team at Edgbaston this summer but what theywon’t know is that our products have ensured the perfect delivery when itcomes to tile protection. Using our extensive range of movement joints, edg-ing and transition profiles and decorative tile trims provides customers witha whole host of different options when it comes to creating the perfect,long-lasting tile installation and ensures there will be no sudden collapses.”

“Much like the greatest all-rounders in cricket can perform well in allaspects of the game,”continues Stokes, “the Schlüter-Systems portfolio iseffective in a whole range of different installations, allowing our customersto edge ahead, rather than edge behind with their tiling project. No matterthe size of the job, distributors and retailers can be on the front foot andoffer tried and tested solutions to their customers.”

“Products from Schlüter-Systems are amongst the most regular we use inprojects and we find them particularly straightforward to install and veryeffective, “ says Rob Meechan, from Birmingham Tile & Mosaic, whichinstalled these products.

Schlüter-Schiene is the original finishing threshold profile and offers theperfect protection. It finishes tiled surfaces and protects the outer edges ofceramic and natural stone floor coverings from mechanical impact. Thethreshold strips of the Schlüter-Reno series create a smooth transitionbefore adjoining floor coverings at different heights, protecting theexposed tile edge. All profiles are available in a range of heights and finish-es such as brass, aluminium, anodised aluminium, stainless steel andbrushed stainless steel and contribute to the aesthetic and lasting appear-ance of the floor covering.

Movement joints from the Schlüter-Dilex range offer secure edge protec-tion and maintenance free solutions for surfaces exposed to continuouspedestrian and vehicular traffic. All profiles are installed at the same timeas the tile covering and a wide variety in various material combinations areavailable, depending on the mechanical or chemical stresses expected onthe covering.

Schlüter-Systems also supplies a range of tile trim profiles that aredesigned to provide a decorative finish and protect exposed tile edges forwall corners, skirting and tiled edges. The products in the Schlüter-Jolly,Schlüter-Rondec, and Schlüter-Quadec and Schlüter-ECK ranges create notjust a decorative finish, but also a highly durable finish. With numerousmaterial, heights, colour and finish options available, the sky really is thelimit when it comes to creativity with these profiles.Birmingham Tile & Mosaic Co 0121 707 4505 www.btandm.co.ukSchlüter-Systems 01530 813396 www.schluter.co.uk

Good all roundperformance at Edgbaston

Edgbaston cricket ground, where products from Schlüter-Systems have been installed.

Schlüter-Schiene and Schlüter-Reno finishing threshold profiles, and Schlüter-Dilex movement joints,were all recently installed in the entrance area at Egbaston cricket ground.

The entrance area at Edgbaston cricket ground, where products from Schlüter-Systems were installed.

SITE REPORT

26 TSJ MARCH 2012

Stoke-on-Trent ceramics manufacturer JohnsonTiles may be over 100 years old but it’s set to

showcase its past, present and future with thelaunch of three new interactive spaces at itsTunstall head offices, including one which will actas a hub to celebrate British design and creativityin the North West.

The new spaces – to mark the launch of the compa-ny’s new Vivid & Tones tile range for the high street -are designed to take visitors on a journey demon-strating just how far the company has come, reflect-ing its modern, forward-thinking approach and com-mitment to innovation in the tile industry.

The ‘Minton One’ meeting area – complete withstate-of-the-art multimedia facilities and a centre-piece table topped with the company’s new SlimPorcelain tiles - tells the story of the history ofJohnson Tiles since its launch in 1901, under theethos of ‘honouring the past by looking to thefuture’.

The ‘Minton Two’ room focuses on trend and it’swhere Johnson Tiles is inviting designers in theregion to display their products to demonstrateinnovation, not just in the ceramics and tile industrybut across any material.

The area already features sofas by bespoke designcompany James UK, which use fabrics sourced fromanother British design firm Camira, and JohnsonTiles is hoping the space will attract other smalldesign companies.

‘Minton Two’ is also where Johnson Tiles’ Designand Development team will give its retail and con-tract clients an idea of what’s coming in the industry,including latest products and new trends to inspiretheir projects.

The third space is 'The Tile Library' displaying manyof Johnson Tiles’ most popular ranges, including itsnew Vivid & Tones tile range, and has been createdto make tile selection easy with workbenches andnumbered board displays to match up Johnson Tiles’extensive range.

As visitors travel around the spaces, they’ll alsoview some of Johnson Tiles’ recently completed proj-ects and a heritage tile display, showing the historicwork and modern techniques now applied by thecompany.

Johnson Tiles marks new product launchwith three-part interactive display concept

Above: The new tile library at Johnson Tiles.

Above: The Minton Two room focuses on trends.

DESIGN RESOURCE

28 TSJ MARCH 2012

Stoke-based tile manufacturer Johnson Tiles has created a visually-engaging showcase of its past,present and future with the launch of three new interactive spaces at its Tunstall head offices.

Above: James UK’s furnishings have been used in one of Johnson Tiles’ new spaces.

Above: Colourful samples abound in the new tile library.

Above: Some of the many samples in the tile library.

Above: The Minton Two space.

DESIGN RESOURCE

30 TSJ MARCH 2012

Darren Clanford, Creative Director at Johnson Tiles,spearheaded the project. He says: “The ceramics andtile industry is hugely exciting in terms of design andinnovation, and we wanted to reflect this at ourheadquarters by really showing people what we cando, what we have done and where we’re going infuture years.“We’ve been around a long time but we’re not an

old-fashioned company. Many of the designs andsolutions we offer are so contemporary and modern,you wouldn’t think they would be possible toachieve.”“The new interactive spaces are truly inspiring.

We’re especially excited about Minton Two whichwill not only show off our own design capabilitiesbut those by other local companies, helping tospread the message that the North West is at theforefront of innovation in design.”Stephen Dixon, Managing Director of Johnson

Tiles, adds: “We’re really shouting about what wecan do through these new spaces, it’s an excitingtime for us as a company as we launch our newrange. The spaces give us the flexibility to adapt andchange what we’re showcasing as the industrymoves into the future.”James Harrison, from James UK, says: “It’s a privi-

lege for our furnishings to be used in one of JohnsonTiles ’ new spaces. Displaying our products in such acreative setting really shows them off, it’s great forus as a small design company that our sofas will beseen and actively used by the many retail and con-tract clients which Johnson Tiles has.”www.johnson-tiles.com

TSJMar12p28-30_feature 01/03/2012 09:42 Page 2

Saint-Gobain Weber’s innovative Low Dust andMould Stop Technologies have been used by P.Plunkett Tiling Contractors Limited ofNorthumberland in the restoration programme of theNational Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh. This proj-ect has now achieved the Andrew Doolan award forThe Best Building in Scotland 2011.The £47 million, three year project by Gareth Hoskins

Architects of Glasgow, has seen a complete reconfigu-ration of the internal space. The museum is now

accessed at street level by a new vaulted entry hallrather than the original flight of stone steps leadingfrom Chambers Street. The floor of the new hall, which accommodates the

shop, café and rest rooms, provides a wonderful newspace which mirrors the floor plan of the Grand Galleryabove. The vaults are compressed and dark while theGrand Gallery is light and lofty and now, relieved of theburden of housing commercial facilities, is returned toits original exhibiting function.

Above: The light and loftyGrand Gallery, relieved of the

burden of housing commercialfacilities, has been returned to

its original exhibiting function.

Photography: Paul-Riddle.com

SITE REPORT

32 TSJ MARCH 2012

Low dust restoration programmeat National Museum of ScotlandPlunkett Tiling was contracted to undertake 3,000 sq. metres of work to theentrance hall, Grand Gallery, and the show-piece staircases leading off theGallery, fitting natural Jura Beige limestone tiles using Weber adhesives.

Plunkett Tiling specified 40tonnes of Saint-Gobain

weber.set rapid SPF with LowDust Technology to

dramatically reduce airbornedust created during the project.Plunkett also used weber.joint

fine flex, a water-repellent,mould resistant, flexible tile

grout in this application.

SITE REPORT

34 TSJ MARCH 2012

In transforming the vaulted entrance hall, previously amess of storage areas, the entire sandstone floor wasreduced by over a metre, requiring extensive underpin-ning of the walls that take the load of the Grand Gallery.Plunkett Tiling, one of the largest tiling contractors in

the UK, was contracted to undertake 3,000 sq. metres ofwork to the entrance hall, Grand Gallery, and the show-piece staircases leading off the Gallery, using naturalJura Beige limestone tiles. This stone is one of the hard-est limestones quarried today, offering ultimate dura-bility at roughly 20mm thick, and can be used in anypremium commercial project. It is unique in that theJura mountains of Germany are in one of the fewregions with a very high concentration of fossils andammonites which can be seen in the cross section ofthe tile.Steven Allsopp, Contracts Director of Plunkett Tiling,

is delighted with the contribution his team has made inthe restoration of Robert Matheson and FrancisFowke’s 1866 Victorian creation. “We had six of ourmost experienced and skilled fixers on this projectworking full time for nine months. We have laid 2,500sq. metres of 20mm thick limestone slabs to theGalleries, fixed to a sand and cement screed, and 90mmthick limestone stair treads which were drilled and fixedto steel. There are radial features on six half landingswhich took very precise application,” says Allsopp.Plunkett Tiling specified the use of 40 tonnes of Saint-

Gobain Weber.Set Rapid SPF with Low Dust Technology(LDT). LDT dramatically reduces airborne dust createdduring the pouring and preparation of products andcontributes to a more comfortable and cleaner environ-

ment for tile contractors and their customers. Plunkettalso used Weber.Joint Fine Flex, a water-repellent,mould resistant, flexible tile grout for interior and exte-rior use, in this application. It is ideal in situations wheresome movement or vibration is expected. It is alsoenhanced with Saint-Gobain Weber’s Mould StopTechnology for lasting protection from mould growth.Both products are manufactured in the UK at Saint-

Gobain Weber’s three manufacturing locations inBallyclare, Northern Ireland; Flitwick, Bedfordshire andTelford, Shropshire. “Having capacity to manufacture locally is good on all

counts,” says Rachel Appleyard, Product Manager atSaint-Gobain Weber. “We can maintain product quali-ty and consistency while ensuring the shortest route tomarket, which is good for our environmental impactand competitive pricing policies.”The alteration of the museum’s interior space is part

of the plan to encourage discovery starting from thetop of the building. Only 5% of visitors ever exploredthe top floor which is now accessed by new stairs, glasslifts and escalators which invite visitors to follow themupwards.In addressing the overall brief and to increase public

space by 50%, some 80% of the exhibits will now bedisplayed for the first time in the grand NationalMuseum of Scotland.

P Plunkett Tiling Contractors 01661 836 960 www.plunketttiling.co.ukSaint-Gobain Weber 0870 333 0070 www.netweber.co.uk

TSJMar12p32-34_feature 01/03/2012 09:49 Page 2

Established in 1991, Camglass imports glass, tiles and sanitaryware.Our warehouse stocks an extensive range of natural stone, ceramic andporcelain, including also holding a substantial supply of glass. Due tothe convenience of its location it enables the opportunity for immediatedespatch. At Camglass we are passionate about working to the highestof standards, we meticulously select only the best from reputable sup-pliers. With the support from our exclusive suppliers we can offer soledistribution rights to a variety of products.

Capitol Tile Supplies02476 633336

Ceramexcel01698 744044

Ceramic Tile Warehouse (Camberley)01276 678845

Ceramique Internationale0113 231 0218

Colchester Tile Supplies01206 844161

Cosmo Ceramics0141 420 1122

Craven Dunnill01746 761611

CTD Group0191 276 1506

Dantotsu Ltd01924 401189

Discount Tile Supplies01474 351560

Distribution Supplies Ltd30 - 36 Ivatt Way, Westwood Industrial EstatePeterborough PE3 7PNTel: 01733 33033 www.distribution-supplies.co.ukDistribution Supplies Ltd. is a specialist importer of quality ceramic walland floor tiles from key manufacturers located throughout the world.Our speciality is China & we buy in huge quantity therefore achieving a

TILE DISTRIBUTORS

36

Aberdeen Tile Distributors01224 582332

ABS International01704 550090

AG Ceramics01438 315400

Albert & Michael Heath0800 980 8453

Amazing Tiles020 8838 4900

Apex Grange Ltd14 Little Mundells, Mundells Industrial CentreWelwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire AL7 1EWT: 01707 338800 F: 01707 338811E: sales@apexgrange.com W: www.apexgrange.comApex Grange are an established company who supply the tile and nat-ural stone industry with all aspects of adhesives and tooling. They havebecome synonymous within the industry for supplying the professionalcontractor with all of their requisites except for the tiles themselves.Apex Grange make daily deliveries to sites within the M25 with theirown fleet of vehicles, ranging from 15 tonne lorries to Transit vans. Therest of the UK is catered for by a national courier service.Apex Grange are main UK distributors for: Ardex; Mapei; Schluter;

Wedi; HardieBacker; Sait, and many more.

Armatile02837 527007

Atlas Ceramics (South) 01425 621173

Azurra Mosaics0845 090 8110

BC Ceramics01634 373939

Bellahouse LtdRegistered Office, Upper Lanes FarmBridle Stile Lane, off Carter Lane, Queensbury, BradfordWest Yorkshire BD13 1NW Tel: +44 (0)1274 816708 Fax +44 (0)1274 816927enquiries@bellahouse.co.uk www.bellahouse.co.uk

Bellahouse Ltd was established in February 2006. A family run compa-ny whose directors between them have over 35 years’ experience in theceramic tile industry. Quality, price and service are the three essentialelements in our business. In order to sell the best high end products atsuch low prices, a considerable amount of time and cost has been spentvisiting and negotiating with many and varied suppliers from aroundthe world. We believe our products offer exceptional value for money.Engineered quartz, granite, travertine, porcelain, marble and glass rep-resent the best and most fashionable materials for walls and floors.

Bellegrove CeramicsBellegrove House, Salisbury RoadWatling Street, Dartford, Kent DA2 6EFTel: 01322 277877Lawmoor Street, Glasgow G5 0TYTel: 0141 429 0011sales@bellegroveceramics.plc.ukwww.bellegroveceramics.co.ukBellegrove has been a national distributor of ceramic tiles and associat-ed products for over 50 years. During this time the company has sup-plied products to most sectors of the ceramic tile market includingretailers and distributors, architects and developers, designers andhouse builders, contractors and specifiers. As part of the Italian manu-facturing group, Gruppo Ceramiche Ricchetti, Bellegrove offers thewidest range of quality porcelain and ceramic tiles direct from its ownfactories: exceptional tiles combining the essential elements of qualityand design with dynamic styling at affordable prices.

Bernard J Arnull020 8965 6094

Boyden & Co020 8683 6000

Bristol Tile Co LtdTel: 0117 965 8000

CamglassLittle Hallingbury Park, Bishops StortfordHertfordshire CM22 7RRTel: 01279 739256info@camglass.co.uk www.camglass.co.uk

Procurement by the pallet

TSJ MARCH 2012

TSJ surveys an extensive selection of specialist tiling distributorsserving retailers in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

EMC Tiles’ comprehensive portfolio of products meets the demands ofall domestic and commercial sectors. The company works closely witharchitects and designers to source the right products for all applicationsand offers a wealth of experience and expertise associated with tiledevelopment and related materials.Selected suppliers: AET, Arkim, Ascot, BASF, BCT, Blustyle Ceramica,Bright Ideas, Cinca, Co-Em, Co-Operative d'lmola, DeVi, Dolce Vita, DomCeramiche, Duro UK, Edimax, Faro, Fioranese, Gardenia Orchidea,Geocell, HG, Ibero, Impex, Johnson Tiles, La Faenza, Mapei, Marengo,Novogres, Original Style, Pavigres, PCI, Pilkington's Tiles, Rubi, Schluter,Self, Sichenia, Thermonet, Tomecanic, Versace, Waxman, Weber.

Euro Services Ltd (ESL)Head Office, Unit 2c, Twickenham Trading EstateRugby Road, Twickenham TW1 1DGTel: 020 8744 1122Fax: 020 8744 0099eslceramic@euroroserviceslimited.co.ukwww.eurotilesandstone.com

TILE DISTRIBUTORS

38

very low cost price, which enables us to offer a trade selling price thatwould be similar to buying from most factories direct! Our customersare able to buy from us at ex-factory prices on a single pallet basis deliv-ered to their premises without concerns about importation costs.

We stock massive quantities at our Peterborough and Cambridgewarehouses and can offer excellent continuity of supply with palletsdelivered ‘next day’ if required. We have over 1,000,000 square feet ofstorage space and carry over 3,000 pallets of tiles.

Our product portfolio of first quality ceramic wall tiles covers virtuallythe entire spectrum from mosaic's through to 325 by 650mm with lis-tellos and decors. We also stock a large range of ‘stand alone’ listellosand dados. Our floor tile range is equally impressive covering sizes from150 by 150mm through to 600 by 600mm with ceramics, porcelains,terracottas, travertines and slates.

Distribution Supplies Ltd are able to supply a single pallet to a fulltrailer at just 24 hours notice with the benefit of an ex-factory pricedelivered to the customer from our warehouse. We currently have sup-pliers in Brazil,Spain,Turkey,Italy,China,India,Indonesia and France

We have over 20 years’ experience in the bulk supply market with aparticular expertise in direct container consignments.

Domus Tiles020 8481 9500

Doramics00 353 1 8429744

DTW Ceramics02392 799007

A & C Dunkley01202 526206

East Midlands Ceramics LtdSouthglade Business Park, Hucknall RoadNottingham NG5 9RATel: 0115 977 0155emc@emctiles.co.ukwww.emctiles.co.uk East Midlands Ceramics, now in its 32nd year of business, has estab-lished an unrivalled reputation for servicing the needs of its trade, con-tract and commercial partners. Operating from central flagship premis-es in Nottingham, the company is ideally placed to service and distrib-ute within the Nottingham, Leicester and Derby regions.EMC Tiles has a dedicated Trade Service Centre to keep its tile fixers andcommercial customers up to date - and organizes regular training ses-sions to keep professionals in touch with new products and standards.

TSJ MARCH 2012

TSJMar12p36-44_preview and transport 01/03/2012 13:48 Page 3

With additional branches in Hertfordshire and Australia, the com-pany has become truly global and uses its purchasing power tobring some amazing products at realistic prices to the market-place.

M2 Direct Ltd0113 273 2104

Mansell & Wells01442 252560 Fax: 01442 254393

Marabase01234 364002 (See Quality Tiles)

Middlesex Tile CentreNewport Road, Hayes, Middlesex, UB4 8JXT: 020 8848 7391 F: 020 8569 1050 / 020 8561 5435W: www.wilsonwylie.co.uk E: mtc@wilsonwylie.co.ukMTC is the retail arm of Wilson & Wylie Contracts Limited, a well estab-lished name in the tile industry with a history spanning over 85 years.MTC really is a ‘one stop shop’ for the tile industry. We are stockists of

ESL has been in business for over 30 years, and is the original bulk palletdistributor throughout the U.K. and Ireland. Our product portfolio iscontinually being updated to keep abreast of new trends and styles ourproducts cover the complete spectrum, from basic whites to high qual-ity Polished Porcelain, Natural Stone and Mosaics. The company isproud of its core strategy of sourcing value-added product at highlycompetitive prices from exclusive factory relationships.ESL has over 60,000 sq. ft of warehousing based in Essex and can delivernext day to any mainland address. We have three showrooms based inTwickenham,Stevenage and Braintree where you can view our exten-sive portfolio.There are over 100 fully tiled display settings across thethree sites. ESL employs eight of the most experienced sales managersin the country. Our own brands are Colour Tiles and Sunshine.

Euxton Tile Supplies01257 273111

Factory Tiles01825 768733

Focus Ceramics01932 854881

HTW -Hampshire Tile Warehouse01252 333333

H & E Smith Ltd01782 281617

International Tiles01626 366600

KDP Tiles02380 270775

The London Tile and Mosaic Co. Saffron Wharf, 18, Shad Thames. London SE1 T: 0207 871 0003 F: 0207 118 0139. E:- info@londontileandmosaic.comW: - www.londontileandmosaic.comThe London Tile and Mosaic Co. is the showpiece for Mansell andWells ltd and prides itself in having the most innovative range oftiles at the most competitive prices in the UK. Three floors ofporcelain, ceramics and mosaics. The UK’s largest importer ofglass tiles and mosaics. Specialising in Mosaic. Murals and specialorder commissions. The company carries over 2000 tons in stock

39MARCH 2012 TSJ

TILE DISTRIBUTORS

TSJMar12p36-44_preview and transport 01/03/2012 13:48 Page 4

TILE DISTRIBUTORS

40 TSJ MARCH 2012

BAL, Mapei and PCI adhesives, grouts and ancillary products, Schlüteraccessories and Rubi tiling tools. We also have direct accounts with allof the UK’s manufacturers and European tile agents, ensuring that noproduct is out of our reach!

We are situated in Hayes, close to the M4, M25 and M40 motorways,making us easily accessible to customers from London and all the sur-rounding areas. We also have our own transport, meaning that directdelivery within the M25 can be offered to the customer.

Miles of Tiles01926 312777

Minoli01865 77 82 25

N&C Nicobond0208 586 4600

National Tile00 353 42 933 7678

Nationwide Ceramics01773 745797 Novatile01384 270786

Olympus Tiles020 7511 6210

Pacesetter 198101624 622045

Parkside Tiles01162 762532

Prospec Tiles0115 939 5903

Pure Adhesion01423 815416

QPC Ceramics0118 959 4066

Quality Tiles01234 217300.

Reed Harris0207 736 7511

Rogers Ceramics01293 612057

Rovic Tiles01732 763167

Rustica01235 834192

Shackerley (Holdings) Group01257 273114

Sidcup Tile King020 8309 0482

Siramics01706 351122

Solus Ceramics0121 753 0777

Square Foot Ceramics020 8397 6284

Stokes Tiles0114 2512670

Strata Tiles0870 608 8878

Studio Ceramics01636 673527

Surface Tiles020 8481 9588

Swedecor01482 329691

Taylor Tiles01792 797712

The Ceramic & Stone Company01564 773202

The Natural Tile & Stone Company01579 362264

Tile MerchantsUnit 39 Pony Road, Horspath Industrial EstateCowley, Oxford OX4 2RDT: 01865 600098 F: 01865 711710We pride ourselves with having one of the most comprehensiveselections of the latest cutting edge designer ranges of porcelainand ceramic tiles, in addition to a range of well over 100 differentspecialist mosaic sheets in glass/stone and metallic combinations.We have comprehensive mosaic brochure which we would bepleased to send you upon application, and we have a unique

counter display unit that displays every single mosaic modelwhich we would be happy to supply FOC to selected outlets. Wehave a comprehensive national salesforce and we would be happyto visit and client to introduce our ranges and to discuss palletoffers and better than ex factory prices in many instances. We arealso happy to discuss regional exclusivity on a product by productbases and we can offer a full portfolio of white wall tiles in nearlyall finishes and all size combinations. To arrange a visit or simplyto make a product enquiry just contact us!

Tile North East01670 716767

Tile Store08452 606025

Tiles UK0161 872 5155

Tilestyle + 353 1 855 5200

Trade Price Stone Ltd.Hilton Business Park, The MeaseHilton, Derbyshire DE65 5FJT: 01283 734990 F: 01283 734744W: www.tradepricestoneltd.co.ukE: sales@tradepricestoneltd.co.ukTrade Price Stone are the UK’s leading importers of Brazilian Slateand Portuguese Limestone. Stocking up to 30,000 sq. metres atany one time and averaging six containers of stock per week, weare well placed to deliver, ex-stock, a full range of products in arange of size and colour options including mosaics.Situated in the heart of England we are perfectly placed to

deliver outstanding products, at amazing prices, often on a NextDay basis. We also offer a range of free services to support ourtrade only customers including:• The best trade prices• Monthly offers by Newsletter• Free samples of all products (100 by 100mm)• Full product and after sales support• Samples direct to you or your client with your logo on all docu-mentation, so it looks like you sent it• Full catalogue of valuable Point of Sale products without ourbranding.• The same with deliveries; all branded with your logo and contactdetails• Timed delivery roll out, reducing the risk of theft from site forlarger projects.• Free sample pallet with full sized sample of every product.• Samples beautifully packaged. All we charge is the P&P.

Trademark Tiles Ltd01487 825300

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TILE DISTRIBUTORS

42 TSJ MARCH 2012

Travertine Direct0845 604 45 34

Tyne Tees Ceramics LtdOffice & Warehouse Address: Unit F20,The Avenues, 11th Avenue North,Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead NE11 0NJTel:-0191 491 0555Fax: 0191 482 6298sales@tyneteesceramics.co.ukhttp://www.tyneteesceramics.t83.net/New Showroom Address: Unit 14, Perth Court11th Avenue North, Heam Valley Trading EstateGateshead NE11 0JYTel: 0191 491 0555Fax: 0191 482 6298With over 28 years in business; family run firm Tyne Tees Ceramics pridethemselves on an unrivalled product portfolio and a friendly profession-al service.They are the largest independent distributor on the north east and

service the North East, Scotland, Yorkshire & Cumbria from their depoton the Team Valley.Sourcing and importing ceramics, porcelain, mosaics and glass from

some of the most prestigious factories in Spain, Italy and Portugal.Supplying developments such as Lumley Castle & Coombe Abbey;

Tyne Tees Ceramics and firmly secured their place as one of the North’sleading firms.There new showroom is now located at Perth Court on the Team

Valley, with rages to suit all.Selected suppliers; Aurellia, C.I.R, CE.VI.CA, Colorker, Del Conca, El

Barco, Gambarelli, Keraben, Metropol, Mosavit, Pastorelli, Serenissima,Tau Ceramica, Zirconio

Verona Stone10 Armley Road, LeedsWest Yorkshire LS12 2DRT: 0113 244 4984 Fax: 0113 244 4787E: sales@veronastonecompany.comW: www.veronastonecompany.comVerona are leading distributors of natural stone tiles and mosaics, glassmosaics, porcelain and sealants. For over 10 years Verona has consis-tently supplied 1st select and commercial quality stone, glass andporcelain at fantastic prices.Although Verona’s pricing is extremely competitive on room-lot size

orders they offer significant further discounting on pallet deals andbulk-stock mosaic orders, for example, Honed and Filled travertine inpallet lots delivered for £9.95 per square meter, or ’10 box’ deals oncontemporary glass mosaics from £2.95 per sheet, delivered. In fact, allorders over £75 are delivered free of charge, with a premium next day

service available for last minute orders.Verona supports their retailers with high quality merchandising and

branding including several bespoke stands and a modular glass andstone mosaic stand, supported with quality POS merchandising and ahigh quality brochure. Verona’s area managers work closely with theircustomers in order to ensure that every square foot of shop floor spacedisplaying Verona’s catalogue is optimised to maximise sales potential.In 2012 Verona Stone Company have improved their infrastructure by

acquiring additional warehousing and are significantly expanded theircatalogue; bringing in over 75 new lines including a comprehensive col-lection of porcelain in various sizes and finishes and an expanded glassmosaic catalogue, all at incredible prices.

Walls and FloorsHenson Way, Kettering NN16 8PX01536 410484 www.wallsandfloors.co.uk salesoffice@wallsandfloors.uk.comWalls and Floors Limited, is the leading UK independent national tiledistributor. We import and stock the widest range of tiles for bothdomestic and commercial applications. Products include ceramic, nat-ural stone, porcelain, mosaics, and quarry tiles. We source globally and

can provide the most competitive prices on products from Spain, Italy,Portugal, Turkey, India and the Far East. We also supply all the leadingUK manufacturers’ tiling products, from our main distribution centre inNorthamptonshire, with our fast and efficient nationwide delivery serv-ice. Our customer portfolio extends from national DIY stores to inde-pendent tile merchants, from house builders to architectural practices.This is all underpinned by our excellent management and support staffto maintain our service to all our customers.Selected Suppliers : BCT, Johnson Tiles, Rubi, BAL, Bostik, Genesis,Mapei, Norcross Adhesives, Ceramica Vilar Albaro, Settecento, TauCeramica, Gambarelli Group, Marrazi, STN Ceramica, PorcelanosaGroup, Pamesa Ceramica, Pavigres Grupa, Halcon Ceramicas, Versace,Villeroy & Boch

Waxman Ceramics Ltd01422 311331

World’s End Tiles0207 819 2100

Yorkshire Tile Company0113 279 4611

Not listed?Send your details by e-mail to the editorial department.tandsjournal@aol.com

Villeroy & Boch is distributed by Walls & Floors. The range shown above is Classic Glam.

TSJMar12p36-44_preview and transport 01/03/2012 13:48 Page 7

TILE DISTRIBUTORS

44 TSJ MARCH 2012

Wood Ker in Nut from Craven Dunnill'sRenaissance Collection

Sands in brown from Craven Dunnill'sRenaissance Collection.

Craven Dunnill is a distributor of ceramic wall and floortiles plus relevant ancillary products. It has its headquar-ters at Bridgnorth, which includes a 760 sq. metre, show-room and 2,600 sq. metre warehouse and distributioncentre. Prime manufacturers represented and stocked byCraven Dunnill include Colorker, Edimax, Imola Ceramic,Johnsons including Minton Hollins, Mapisa, Marazzi,Tagina, Venus Ceramica, Vitra plus ancillary products fromBAL, Bostik, Dunlop, Profix, HG Systems, DEVI underfloorheating, Schlüter Systems, Genesis and PTC. Craven Dunnill also works closely with its sister compa-ny Craven Dunnill Jackfield, which manufactures bespoketiles and is well known in the restoration sector.

Key sectorsCraven Dunnill distributes to Retailers is in the west ofEngland and Wales. It also offers a comprehensive,national service to the commercial/contract sectorincluding new home developers, architects, designers,building and flooring contractors. Services availableinclude a full CAD design service for architects anddesigners, exclusive product, stock holding, daily on-sitedelivery, extensive showroom with a trade sales counter.The company has recently announced a new service, inassociation with its sister company Craven DunnillJackfield, which provides the technical expertise andproject management skills for the making and installationof bespoke murals and decorative panels.

New productsThe company offers a wide selection of over 10,000 walland floor tiles in its Renaissance Collection, which are reg-ularly updated and all of which are held in stock. In 2011alone the company introduced over 60 new series of tilesacross the spectrum of glazed and unglazed porcelain,decorative wall tiles and mosaics, the latter proving par-ticularly strong for sales during 2011. The most recentnew product introductions include:Weekend is the new lifestyle range of ceramic wall tiles;the range combines the latest fashionable brick shapedtiles 300 by 100mm with undulating, plaster effect textur-ing, soft neutral palette and innovative micro mosaiceffect (Struttura), in an understated satin finish.

The Delft range of wall tiles from Craven Dunnill has arefreshing, natural appeal with delicate, overlappingleaves strewn across the 600 by 300mm tiles. Creating asubtle, decorative element to either a bathroom orkitchen, the Davinci tiles come in either beige or whiteand are complemented by the Delft field tiles (600 by300mm) or Vermer ribbed tiles (600 by 200mm); there isalso a matching floor tile 450 by 450mm in glazed porce-lain called Rodin.

The Lefka range of wall and floor tiles from CravenDunnill combines the practicality of porcelain with thepopular appeal of delicately veined, cross-cut stone,which has the appearance of fine sand drifting across thesurface. It is available in five different sizes from 600 by600mm to a narrow 600 by 50mm and comes in threetones: white, gold and walnut. The Sands porcelain tile collection has the exactappearance of natural English volcanic slate, similar tothat quarried in the hills of the Lake District, and is avail-able as 758 by 453mm floor tiles in four versatile colours:Dark sand, Ivory Sand, Brown Sand and Grey Sand.Wood-Ker is another new addition to the extensiveCraven Dunnill tile collection and is the latest, prestige,wood-effect ceramic tile. The delicate detail of the sur-face pattern and shading achieve a highly realistic sawnwood-grain effect. Available in 1,000 by 144mm ‘planks’,Wood-Ker is made from glazed porcelain and comes infour colour options: Brown, Nut, Cream and a warm Grey.

Recent developmentsThe Craven Dunnill showroom has undergone a majorrefurbishment with a dedicated mosaic area on twofloors, which features over 350 different ranges andlifestyle room settings; the company has also introducedsmall sample cards for its mosaic collections, which areavailable to its retailers. The Showroom opening hourshave also been extended to include Saturday afternoonsand Sundays. In January 2012 David Talbot was appointed TechnicalConsultant, to support Craven Dunnill’s strategy to offer acomprehensive contract design service.David has over 25 years’ experience in the commercialtile market; he previously worked at Johnson Tiles Ltdhandling numerous aspects of the contract tile market,including commercial design, technical specification, inaddition to providing contract marketing experience inproducts, support materials and sales for the UK andexport markets. He will work closely with Marketing and Sales DirectorSteve Whitehurst and Craven Dunnill’s sales team, todeliver a complete technical tile service for specifiers andarchitects in all sectors of the contract market, includinghouse developers, social housing, leisure and specialistprojects such as murals.The company introduced an online blog in 2011www.cravendunnill.co.uk/blog which provides addition-al and current technical information to its retailers andcustomers.

Craven DunnillStourbridge Road, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 6AST: 01746 761611 E: sales@cravendunnill.co.ukW: www.cravendunnill.co.uk

PROFILE: Craven DunnillTSJ shines the spotlight on Bridgnorth-based distributor Craven Dunnill.

TSJMar12p36-44_preview and transport 01/03/2012 13:48 Page 9

The Al Hamra Tower is not only Kuwait’s tallest building at412.5 metres but also the world’s tallest sculpted buildingwith an exterior façade of 258,000 sq. metres clad inmechanically-adhered limestone, reports Ron Treister.

The recently completed Al Hamra Tower is not onlyKuwait’s tallest building at 412.5 metres; it is also

the world’s tallest sculpted building. Offering a mas-sive construction area consisting of 180,000 sq.metres, the integrated, mixed-use development hasbeen built at a cost of US$950 million in the centre ofKuwait City. The building has 75 state-of-the-art storeys dedicated for

offices, in addition to a mammoth mixed-use complex featur-ing a mall with three basements, three shopping floors and acinema floor containing nine IMAX theaters. Having an exterior facade covered with 258,000 sq. metres

of limestone - enough to tile all of New York City’s Central Park- Al Hamra is the tallest direct-adhered stone-clad structure onthe planet. During the lengthy planning of the building's con-struction, there was understandable concern over the struc-tural integrity of the spiral cantilevered concrete shear walls ifclad with thick, mechanically-attached stone panels. Rather than changing the design aesthetic, engineers and

architects developed a creative solution; installing limestone

tiles on the exterior walls of the lower floors and a mesh-mounted trencadis-style limestone tile system on the exteriorwalls of the higher floors, achieving the same “look” at a frac-tion of the weight. The Laticrete System was ultimately select-ed to make this design solution come to fruition.Richard Goldberg, AIA, CSI, a consulting architect with

Professional Consultants International, and one of the world’sforemost experts regarding direct-adhered exterior tile andstone wall cladding, was contracted to provide technical con-sulting services to both Ahmadiah Contracting & TradingCompany, Kuwait and SOM Architects, New York City. “Our engineers conducted cutting-edge computer model-

ing of the tile cladding assembly using finite element analysis.We utilised Abaqus FEA commercial computer software, com-monly used in the aerospace industry, now economically fea-sible in architectural building design,” states Goldberg. “This software provided accurate, robust simulations of the

behaviour of the proposed direct-adhered composite stonecladding assembly under extreme thermal expansion, con-crete shrinkage, and wind loading typical of the unique geo-graphic location. Most important, this technique allowed us toconfidently specify the adhesive mortar and grout productswith the necessary physical properties. “We were also asked to analyse and review a number of

direct-adhered stone façade installation systems,” Goldbergcontinues. “After a highly detailed evaluation process, we

Stone cladding with atwist for iconic new tower

Above: With an exterior façadecovered with 258,000 sq.

metres of limestone, the AlHamra tower is said to be theworld’s tallest direct-adhered

stone-clad structure.

DESIGN TRENDS

46 TSJ MARCH 2012

selected the Laticrete System. There were many reasons forthis which included the quality of the products to be used, thestrong warranty programme that Laticrete offers, and mostimportant, the fact that the Laticrete materials offered certifiedproduct test data of key physical characteristics which enabledus to conduct computer modeling simulations. “This was a very challenging project for us due to the fact

that it was going to be the tallest structure on the globe withdirect-adhered stone exterior cladding,” says Sujit Singh,General Manager of Laticrete RAK. “We had many meetingswith the architects, contractors and façade specialists. Thefinite element analysis was conducted before a final decisionon the Laticrete products was announced ... there were manyother competitive product manufacturers vying to get thisunique project. One key to Laticrete being awarded the con-tract was our commitment in assuring the quality by trainingand inspection during installation. There were many chal-lenges on this project including the building’s extraordinary

height and also, having installation occur during hot weatherwhere the mercury reached as high as 500C!” The Trencadis Gaudi limestone was bonded to the exterior

concrete walls of Al Hamra Tower with Laticrete 254 Platinum(white), a one-step, polymer fortified, thin-set mortar. “Weselected this product for many reasons, one being its highshear-bond strength and balanced shear modulus properties,”added Goldberg. Once the thin-set cured, the subsequent grouting process

on the Al Hamra Tower’s exterior was implemented withLaticrete 1500 Sanded Grout, a premium, factory-preparedproduct designed to be mixed with water. Formulated from ablend of high-strength Portland cement, graded aggregates,polymers and colour-fast pigments, Laticrete 1500 SandedGrout provided The Tower’s outside walls with grout jointsthat were dense, hard and highly durable… made from aproduct that could withstand the incredibly high heat indexexisting in Kuwait City.Singh commented that Laticrete 1776 Grout Enhancer was

used in this project, as well. “Laticrete 1776 Grout Enhancer isused in place of water to provide a dense, colourfast groutjoint that inhibits stain causing bacteria, mould and mildewgrowth with Microban®. This was necessary for the Al HamraTower’s limestone cladding, as it works perfectly with Laticrete1500 Sanded Grout.”The Al Hamra Tower is without question, a world-class, signa-

ture architectural project. When it is completed and can beseen from miles outside of Kuwait City either inland or fromthe Arabian Gulf, people will comment on how its initialappearance seemingly curves to its highest point like a “curlednewspaper”. Visitors and tenants will be welcomed by a soaring, 20-plus

meter high lobby, which frankly, will have to be seen firsthandfor one to experience its awesome, futuristic designs. Verysoon, The Tower’s facilities will be open, which will include sixlevels of retail; a rooftop garden positioned atop the retail sec-tor; the largest business center in Kuwait; the very posh, SkyLounge restaurant; 40 rapid elevators to reach those very highfloors; two “refuge floors” designed to be used in case of anemergency… and, a multi-story parking facility, as well. All ofthis, housed within a building that has an exterior profession-ally covered via the largest and quite possibly the most spec-tacular direct-adhered limestone cladding project found todate on this earth.“We at Laticrete are proud to be able to contribute to a proj-

ect as ambitious as the Al Hamra Tower,” stated Erno de Bruijn,President, Laticrete International. “Some of the world’s pre-mier architects, engineers, consultants and contractors werecalled upon to make this construction dream a reality. Weknow it will stand tall as a major architectural statement fordecades to come. Because of that, we are very confident thatthe Laticrete products which were specified for The Al HamraTower will perform at optimal levels as long as the building isin use.”LaticreteT: 0871 284 5959 E ahedley@laticrete.comW: www.laticrete.com

Above: Rather than change thedesign, engineers and

architects developed a creativesolution; installing limestonetiles on the lower floors and a

mesh-mounted trencadis-stylelimestone tile system on thehigher floors. The Laticrete

System was ultimately selectedto make this radical design

solution a reality.

DESIGN TRENDS

48 TSJ MARCH 2012

TSJMar12p46-48_feature 01/03/2012 09:51 Page 3

MOSAICS & GLASS

Right: Venetian Glass Mix fromCraven Dunnill's Renaissance

Collection.

Craven Dunnill has more than doubled its mosaic col-lection in the last 12 months to over 350 different designs,as homeowners become more adventurous and embracethe creative opportunities mosaics provide.

A few strips of distinctive mosaics can transform theplainest of field tiles into a chic, accent wall, mosaics canturn a practical basin splash-back or bath surround into anexotic feature, create a bijoux decorative element, in whatotherwise would be a mundane bathroom, and introducethe attractive option of curvaceous shower walls – thepossibilities are endless and many are featured as lifestyleroom-sets in the Craven Dunnill showroom at Bridgnorth.

New mosaic ranges from Craven Dunnill’s RenaissanceCollection include Buttons Lustre Glass and EmpradorMix: a combination of glass with a lustre glaze and pol-ished marble available in three colourways:Cream/Moss/Hazel, Lustre glass and Emprador Stone,Lustre Glass and Crema Stone in 300 by 300mm sheets.

Other new arrivals include Venetian Glass: multi tonedMurano glass available in three colourways: Amber, Dark

Fusion (blue) and Earth Mix. Venetian glass has individualtesserae 25 by 25 by 5mm mesh mounted on a 327 by327mm sheet.

ESL also reports the growing popularity of mosaics overthe last few years and highlights the fact that there arenow many different versions on the market: from ceramicthrough stone to glass and metal, plus mixed materials.

ESL Ceramics & Stone range includes Kenya polishedmarble and glass mosaic sheets in a variety of differentsizes bin square and rectangular brick and bar formats.Dimensions are 15 by 15, 25 by 25, 15 by 48 and 10 by40mm.

In 2012 The Mosaic Company celebrates 21 years ofsupplying the UK tile industry with the finest ceramic andglass mosaic tiles sourced from leading manufacturersaround the world.

Despite the economic downturn, the company has con-tinued to invest in new ranges and points of sale, as well

Mosaic tiles are an enduring and versatile element in an interior designer’s toolkit, able toaccommodate curved shapes, act as a decorative border, pixilate images or patterns to create afeature wall, or set against natural stone or ceramic tiles as a striking splashback. TSJ profiles theleading suppliers and analyses the techniques used to get the best from glass tiles and mosaics.

The decorative drama is in the detail

50 TSJ MARCH 2012

as maintaining high levels of stock from which they aim tosupply over 95% of orders with next day delivery.

With the company’s core range of ceramic and glassmosaics firmly established, the new additions stronglyfeature glass mosaics with iridescent and metallic glazesin the size 23.5 by 23.5mm under the Aqua Luxe heading.

They claim to stock one of the largest ranges of anti-slipmosaics currently available in the UK and have recentlyadded six new 45 by 45mm full body porcelain mosaicswith riven surface which attain and exceed DIN 51097 cat-egory C, making them eminently suitable for showers andwetrooms and retailing from a highly competitive £40 persq. metre, plus VAT.

The company is also able to undertake bespoke tilemurals, the most spectacular of which adorn the walls ofthe prestigious Emirates Stadium in London in the form ofthe Arsenal Logo, as well as providing mosaic tiles for theaward winning Monaco Garden at the 2011 ChelseaFlower Show and to the gold medal winner for Best ShowGarden at the RHS Tatton Park Flower Show 2011.

The full range of products are available to view on thecompany’s easy to navigate website www.mosaiccompa-ny.co.uk and, for customers unsure of their purchase, thecompany was one of the first in the UK to offer a free sam-ple service.

Mapei on installing glass mosaicsWhen installing glass mosaics it is important to carefully

consider the conditions under which the mosaic finishwill be subjected, the type of substrate to which they willbe fixed and also the type of backing to the glass mosaic.Glass mosaic can be either pure coloured glass or clearglass with a coloured backing visible through the glassbody thus achieving the desired colour of the final mosa-ic installation.

The type of coloured backing will influence the type ofadhesive necessary to bond the mosaic. For example, if thebacking coat is sensitive to alkaline conditions then a cement-based adhesive will need to be avoided. Equally if the backingcoat is moisture sensitive then a water-based adhesive shouldnot be used, this would exclude the use of both paste adhe-sives and cement-based adhesives. In these cases a reactionresin adhesive such an epoxy or polyurethane (or epoxy-polyurethane) adhesive should be selected.

It is also important to note that where mesh is used toproduce mosaic sheets, the mesh and the adhesive usedto bond the mesh to each tesserae should not cover morethan 25% of the rear of each tesserae. The adhesive mustalso be compatible with the service conditions envisaged.

It is essential to check with the manufacturer of the glassmosaic that they will be suitable for their final intendeduse. The service conditions to which the mosaic will besubjected to once in full use can vitally alter the type ofmosaic chosen. This is particularly important in wet envi-ronments and can be critical in under water situationssuch as swimming pools, spas and fountains.

The substrate type should be chosen carefully when amosaic finish is part of the design. Naturally the substratemust be appropriate for the service conditions. It mustalso be extremely flat as the mosaic will tend to followevery contour, consequently highlighting and exaggerat-ing every imperfection in the substrate. Where boards areused then particular attention must be paid to the jointswithin these boards which must remain stable and rigid.

A glass mosaic finish is aesthetically very pleasing to theeye and also to the touch. With modern adhesive andgrout technology they can be fixed in a variety of styles.For example the visual attractiveness of coloured pureglass mosaics can be further enhanced by bonding andgrouting in a coloured material. Mapei Kerapoxy Design

51MARCH 2012 TSJ

MOSAICS & GLASS

Above: Glass has the ability toreflect and refract light giving a3D effect throughout the depthof the tile or mosaic. This desir-able effect can be enhanced bybonding glass mosaics with ahighly colourful and decorativeadhesive such as Mapei’sKerapoxy Design. It is availablein eight striking shades. Thesebase colours can be used aloneor blended with either silver orlight gold Mapeglitter to createa sparkling finish.

TSJMar12p50-57_feature 01/03/2012 09:58 Page 2

MOSAICS & GLASS

52 TSJ MARCH 2012

will permit the installation of glass mosaics in wet rooms,swimming pools and many other features. And to furtherglamorise the design Mapeglitter can be added toKerapoxy Design to provide an eye-catching sparkle.Kerapoxy Design can also be used to fix mosaics to GRPsubstrates.

Of course glass mosaics can also be fitted using tradi-tional adhesives such as Mapei Adesilex P10. Where thecoloured backing is based on a resin or the mosaic is usedin underwater situations, then it is recommended thatMapei Isolastic is added to the adhesive. This will increasethe strength of the bond and ensure many years of serv-ice.

To complete the installation it will be necessary to groutthe joints between the tesserae. As mentioned earlier, anepoxy grout may be used not only to create aestheticeffects but also where a hygienic finish or greater chemi-cal resistance is required. For general grouting a cement-based material is usually adequate such as MapeiKeracolor FF.

To ensure a successful glass mosaic installation willstand the test of time, the appropriate measures shouldbe made, as briefly outlined above. In order to get thebest possible result, technical assistance such as Mapeirepresentatives can offer, can ensure the correct and bestquality products are utilised. Mapei can also offer a sitevisit when required. For further details of product informa-tion, literature and samples please contact Mapei on 0121508 6970 or info@mapei.co.uk. Technical data sheets canbe found at www.mapei.co.uk.

Original Style’s opulent Mosaics Collection offers a vari-ety of striking shades and innovative textures guaranteedto transform a wide variety of interiors. Original Style hasworked with interior designers from around the world inorder to produce the collection, meaning that an OriginalStyle design will not only look visually stunning, but willalso mirror current design trends. All tastes and styleshave been catered for, and as a result there is a mosaic tosuit every type of interior.

Left from top left: Five stages inthe grouting of glass mosaictiles using Ardex EG8.

Ardex EG 8 is a cement/epoxyhybrid grout and adhesive thatcombines the chemical resist-ance of an epoxy-based groutwith the ease of applicationassociated with cement basedgrouts.

Ardex EG 8 has excellentresistance to most chemicalsbut, unlike traditional epoxygrouts, Ardex EG 8 is easy toapply, requires no special tools,and can be cleaned off the tilesurface up to 45 minutes afterapplication.

Ardex EG 8 has been formu-lated to resist chemical attackand to provide a durable, abra-sion resistant waterproof finishthat is hygienic and impervi-ous, making it ideal for use in:• Swimming Pools• Hydrotherapy and spa baths• Domestic and commercialfood preparation areas wherechemical resistance andhygienic joints are required• Hospitals• Bathrooms & showers

Once hardened, Ardex EG 8 isresistant to aqueous salt solu-tions, chlorine water, commer-cial cleaning agents, alkalis anda wide range of dilute mineralacids. Ardex EG 8 can also beused as a floor tile adhesive or amosaic wall tile adhesive inareas where a chemically resist-ant adhesive bed is required.

Available in grey and white,Ardex EG 8 can fill joint widthsfrom 2 to 12mm, and can alsobe used externally and withunderfloor heating systems.

TSJMar12p50-57_feature 01/03/2012 09:58 Page 3

MOSAICS & GLASS

54 TSJ MARCH 2012

Materials on offer in the Elite range include shimmeringMother of Pearl and Eastern Light, a dazzling mosaic cre-ated using 24 carat gold leaf.

The lustrous Glass range of mosaics offers a sophisticat-ed colour palette, which includes the glistening WhiteLady and the dark and intense Pacha.

Further materials available in the Collection includeNatural Stone, Wood, Metal and the ever practicalPorcelain.

Original Style is one of Europe’s leading suppliers ofmosaics and the company offers innovative and attractivedisplay options. Original Style has opportunities tobecome a stockist in selected areas.

The safety of customers in hotels is a constant concernand involves the development of specific products tominimise the risk of accidents. At the same time, in orderto improve their offer, hotels are building wellness spaceson their premises, creating specific needs.

Water is key player in its various applications in theseareas, requiring high hygiene and, hence, effective clean-ing. Also, according to leading manufacturer Reviglass,the floors have to comply with Class C of the newTechnical Building standards on the slipperiness.

Reviglass has been manufacturing glass mosaics inSpain since 1985 and claims to have the widest range ofproducts on the market in different sizes and with neworiginal mounting systems. Reviglass also manufactureswhat it claims is the only soft anti-slip mosaic on the mar-ket (patented) that meets the C standard of slipperiness,as well as being easy to install and maintain.

The company offers the possibility of customising thedecorations and applying the anti-slip treatment on theproduct of customer's choice even on 12 by 12mmmosaics; a format in which Reviglass has become a spe-cialist manufacturer.

All Reviglass products are made with 100% transparentrecycled glass, without water consumption and pollutingdischarges, thus making the products highly environmen-tally-friendly.

There are three key factors influencing today’s interiordesign trends: sustainability, economics and glamour.Mosaic and glass can play to all three.

Mosaics made using recycled glass, or from ceramic tileswith a significant recycled content, are an ideal way to sat-isfy the green building lobby. Mosaic is also a sensibleway to maximise the design impact of precious and rarenatural resources such as marble.

Due to the state of the economy, home owners are seek-ing out value-for-money décor options. Mosaic can pro-vide one solution by providing a little of the wow factorwhen used to provide an accent against low cost plaintiles. Mosaic can also be used to frame architectural fea-tures such as alcoves and niches, or provide high impactsplashbacks behind kitchen worktops, vanity units orbasins.

Finally, in terms of ceramic tiles, Glamour manifests itselfin high gloss marbles, burnished metallic glazes, rich lus-tres and strong deep colourways such as crimson, purpleand umber. Mosaic plays to this trend via high valuemetallic glazes. They can either be used on their own tocreate opulent wetrooms and striking kitchen features, oras decorative stripes and borders to accent ceramic tiles,stone and other decorative finishes. Slip-resistant glassmosaic floors are also popular in this market sector.

Above: The Mosaic Company provided mosaic tiles for the award winning Monaco Garden at the 2011Chelsea Flower Show. Designed by Sarah Eberle and built by Peter Dowle Plants & Gardens, the gar-den illustrates the interaction between architecture and landscape that characterises Monaco's spec-tacular scenery. The garden shows how landscape and architecture can interact to provide sustain-able solutions to support high density living, including the use of vertical green walls and plantedroofs. The rear portion of the garden contains a structure of varying heights that represents a sectionof a high rise building. This area leads to a courtyard with access to a small balcony above a can-tilevered planted roof, providing an area that is protected from the sun’s rays.

Above: The Chromatic range from Waxman Ceramics is an ultramodern glass mosaic with a vibrant glitter effect. This mosaicrange is perfect for adding modern decoration to any tile or for cre-ating a feature wall.

TSJMar12p50-57_feature 01/03/2012 09:58 Page 5

Left: New Mosaic at Cedern Rd,Elborough Village, Somerset.The artwork, installed at the

stone circle in Cedern Avenue,was designed by children fromthe village, and put togetherduring workshops at HuttonVillage Hall.Quita Allender, who worked

on the project through NorthSomerset Play Forum, said:“Some log hops for children tobalance on have recently beeninstalled at the top of the hillas well, plus some large wood-en mushrooms in the littlecopse there.”“The idea is to give children a

place to play and to imagine in,without spoiling the appear-ance of the hill by putting inconventional play equipment.”

MOSAICS & GLASS

56 TSJ MARCH 2012

During the past 52 years, self-taught mosaic artist Phil Evanoff hasquietly amassed a staggering body of work in the basement of hishome in Ohio, USA. Evanoff, a 96-year-old retired chemist, hasmade more than 600 mosaics, each with thousands of intricatelyplaced fragments of tile, glass or seashells. The mosaics reflect hiswide-ranging interest in art and nature from throughout the world.He has re-created Bulgarian Christmas cards, African cliff drawings,an Aztec calendar stone and even the Vincent van Gogh paintingStarry Night. His first mosaic re-created a famous cave drawing ofbulls from Lascaux cave in southwestern France. For the past 52years, Evanoff has averaged one mosaic a month, although his out-put ebbs and flows. He has finished as many as 25 in a year andgone as long as two years without creating a work.

Taking a 35-year-old ceramic wall sculpture apart tile by tile is notAmy Green's idea of art restoration. But that's exactly what she'sbeen doing to Frank Matranga's 1977 art work, a curvilinear mosa-ic made of glazed clay tiles and glass that's been removed from theentrance of the Diamond Bar Library on Grand Avenue, DiamondBar near Los Angeles, USA, in order to re-create it at the town’s newlibrary on Copley Drive.Green, co-owner of Silverlake Conservation, has been cleaning,

restoring and sometimes touching up Matranga's work piece bypiece. The 9ft by 8.5ft art wall was taken down piece by piece, eachtile given a number that corresponds to a computerised grid fororderly reapplication. "There's a little bit of sacrifice but it is farbetter than destroying the mural," Green said. For instance, someof the work had to be slightly trimmed to fit the new wall space inthe future children's reading garden, she said. Matranga agreeswith the process and has been helping every step of the way.

Above: Buttons mosaics from Craven Dunnill's Renaissance Collection.

TSJMar12p50-57_feature 01/03/2012 09:58 Page 7

57MARCH 2012 TSJ

MOSAICS & GLASS

Above: Gnosis, a US design firm specialising in the creation ofhand-made mosaics, has introduced the Stretch collection, in tendifferent patterns. The Stretch mosaic patterns, which date toancient Rome, are adaptable to either classic or contemporarystyles. “We are very excited about these patterns because theyhave become the most classic exemplars of mosaic surfaces,” saidSandra Ghaoui, President at Gnosis. “These mosaic floor tiles havemade their way through classical architecture and yet today, in myview, they make the most elegant mosaic floors known to man.”The Stretch mosaic surfaces are crafted in a single piece regardlessof the surface size, making a truly organic pattern with the imper-fections expected in mosaic made by the hand of artisans. Themosaics, mesh mounted for an easy installation, are available inhand-polished finishes. www.gnosis-mosaics.com

Above: Egypt by Alttoglass

Alloy Design +61 2 9565 2422 www.alloydesign.co.au

Alttoglass +34 964 577878 www.alttoglass.com

Appiani +39 0422 502617 www.appiani.it

Ardex 01440 714939 www.ardex.co.uk

Azzura 0845 090 8110 www.mosaics.co.uk

Bisazza 20 8253 9200 www.bisazza.co.uk

British Ceramic Tile 0845 055 1258 www.britishceramictile.com

Ceramgres +39 0422 396366 www.ceramgres.com

CP Group 0845 519 7039 www.cpgroupuk.com

Classical Flagstones 01422 307930 www.classical-flagstones.co.uk

Craven Dunnill 01746 761611 www.cravendunnill.co.uk

ESL 020 8744 1122 www.euroserviceslimited.co.uk

Ezarri +34 943 164140 www.ezarri.com

Genesis 01642 713000 www.genesis-aps.com

Gnosis +1 (877) 221-1517 www.gnosis-mosaics.com

Grespania 0121 457 6900 www.grespania.com

Halcon 07983 714261 www.halconceramicas.com

House of Mosaics 0845 423 8720 www.houseofmosaics.co.uk

Jasba 01480 474717 www.mosaiccompany.co.uk

Lucedentro +39 059 550 617 www.lucedentro.com

Mapei UK 0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk

Morpheus Glass 01695 624182 www.morpheusglass.co.uk

Mosaic Tile Shop 01536 314738 www.mosaictileshop.co.uk

Mosaic Company, The 01480 474717 www.mosaiccompany.co.uk

Mosaic Miro +31 (0)73 612 7454 www.mosaicmiro.com

Mosavit +34 964 380000 www.mosavit.com

Mridul +91 11 232 19957 www.mridul.com

N&C LiveTile 020 8586 4600 www.livetile.com

Onix +34 964 776287 www.onixmosiaco.com

Opiocolor +33 492 603222 www.opiocolor.com

Original Style 01392 473000 www.originalstyle.com

Reviglass +34 94 368 1118 www.reviglass.es

Sicis +39 544 469711 www.sicis.com

Stoneset 01884 820029 www.stone-set.co.uk

Trend +39 0444 338711 www.trend-vi.com

Vetro Mosaics +11 323 585 6368 www.vetromosaico.com

Vetrocolor +39 0577 920229 www.vetrocolor.it

Villiglas +43 4237 23033111 www.villiglas.at

Vitrogres 01480 474717 www.mosaiccompany.co.uk

Waxman 01472 371723 www.waxmanceramics.co.uk

SELECTED MOSAIC & GLASS SUPPLIERS

TSJMar12p50-57_feature 01/03/2012 09:59 Page 8

Ahealthy order book during 2011 and into 2012 has seen arespected supplier of natural stone materials to the building

and construction sectors almost treble its warehousing capabili-ties with the move to a new 25,000 ft2 facility at Hilton BusinessPark in Derbyshire from its 10,000 ft2 warehouse in Burton,Staffordshire to help manage demand.

Speaking of his order book for 12,500 sq. metres of Brazilian slate to sup-ply to tilers and retailers, Simon Lloyd Jones, Director of Trade Price StoneLtd, explains: “The unit in Hilton Business Park offered easy transport linksto national arterial roads and the motorway network and a significantlyimproved working environment for my staff.”

“Trade Price Stone’s success flies in the face of the recessionary stormsthat have been buffeting many organisations operating in the building andconstruction sectors, but there are some factors behind it. We specialise inthe import and retail of Brazilian slate and Portuguese limestone, holdingmany thgousand sq. metres in stock at any one time. We have developeda niche and a reputation for quality and cost-effective, timely, delivery andproduct that can enhance any environment, from a large shopping centreor office block to a kitchen, bedroom, lounge or bathroom.”

Trade Price Tile’s success goes beyond offering a variety of slate finishes,including Antiqued, Honed, Chipped Edge and uniquely designed mosaics.Customers can see stock holding of products dynamically, in real time, viathe www.tradepricestoneltd.co.uk website and also click through to seewhen shipments are due to support planning of developments.

Lloyd Jones also engages in proactive marketing campaigns – mail andinternet-based – to keep the Trade Price Stone brand at the forefront ofexisting and prospective customers’ minds.

“Routes and channels to markets have changed significantly since I set upthe company in November 2007, building upon 15 years’ experience in thenatural stone trade,” explains Lloyd Jones. “Our customers include contrac-

tors, architects, specifiers, interior designers, retailers and so on, and theyare fluent in the use of websites, emails, social media like Facebook andTwitter and so on. Staying on top of our game has meant that we have tobe equally adept so we have developed strategies for social media anddirect mail campaigns.”

Trade Price Stone believes in letting the beauty of its products, such as theBrazilian slate it offers, speak for itself. One of the strands of its marketingactivity therefore includes sending tailored samples of tiles to targetedindividuals and organisations.

Lloyd Jones adds: “We are able to show our customers what we are offer-ing as well as telling them. Don’t get me wrong, face-to-face is still a sig-nificant element of our communication program, but it can prove challeng-ing to meet up as our customers are so busy. This way they have the chanceto see and appreciate the features and benefits of our products at theirleisure and also take the samples on site or to show their end customers fordiscussion.”

Point-of-sale material is also proving to be an effective marketing tool forTrade Price Stone. “For us, PoS means the options of a suite of posters, sam-ple boxes and, product sheets that can be delivered to or downloaded anddisplayed in retailers’/merchants’/tilers’ facilities and hopefully supportsales for them as well as us,” comments Lloyd Jones.

“One strategy which is proving particularly successful is our ability to shipsamples direct to our customers’ end customers either in a plain brown boxwith no branding of any sort, including reference to Trade Price Stone orwith only the trade customer branding on it. In fact, we have the facility toextend that further and, if they wish, we add the trade branding andaddress details to delivery notes and manifests, with no mention of TradePrice Stone, thus protecting our customers’ interests, margins, etc.”

“All these initiatives are designed with the objective of helping to drivethe ‘decision to buy’ process. And, let’s not forget, the products we sell arefirst class. Natural stone is a cost-effective, low maintenance, easy-downoption that accommodates huge footfall, is easy to maintain and looksstunningly beautiful. Our customers benefit from being able to offer theirclients an opulent finish which they have specified at trade price. This issupported by our perfect locations from where we can provide a ‘roll out’service to suit any given project.”

Trade Price Stone has its quality accreditations on the website so thattrade customers can reassure themselves that the products will performwell. The firm’s customers, who order thousands of tonnes of stone, regardTrade Price Stone as a silent partner, shipping product - from one uniquepiece of material, such as a hand-split slate tile measuring almost any sizethe project demands, to a few tiles or a few crates – directly to site to speedup delivery. It is against this background, however, that the firm has onlyincreased haulage prices once since last year.

“We work hard and consider all avenues to make trading with us asstraightforward as possible,” concludes Lloyd Jones. “This, I believe, com-bined with our knowledge of natural stone and reputable supply chain,goes a long way towards explaining our success to date. The firm is alsooptimistic about the future because we have many more exciting plans tounveil over the next 12 months that will support our ambitions and thoseof our trade customers too.”01283 734990 www.tradepricestoneltd.co.uk

Stone stockholding proves a success story

Above: Trade Price Stone’swebsite includes a section

specifically dedicated toretailers.

PROFILE

58 TSJ MARCH 2012

“Trade Price Stone’s specialises in Brazilian slate and Portuguese limestone, holding thousands ofsq.metres in stock. TSJ reports on a business that is booming in the face of the economic downturn.

PORTFOLIO

60 TSJ MARCH 2012

3D shapes boost Rako’s Concept rangeConcept Plus is a development of Rako’s successful and highly versatileConcept range. Suitable for both bathroom and kitchen applications,the range has an adaptable and modern appearance. With the addi-tion of new vivid tiles in all seven colour combinations, the range hasbeen given new design impetus. Soft concave tiles in 200 by 60mm,and facetted geometric decors in 250 by 100mm create new scope fordesign. Mosaics have also been added to the offer, cut so that they canalso be used as borders. 200 by 400mm large decor tiles with scoredjoints are also now part of the Concept Plus range , creating theappearance of a striped decor once laid.Concept Plus basic wall tiles are available in 250 by 333mm and 200

by 400mm. Curved decor tiles are 200 by 60mm. Facetted decor tilesare 250 by 100mm. The paper-mounted mosaic tiles are 300 by300mm. Matching floor tiles are available in 333 by 333mm.www.rako.eu

All the charm and elegance of natural stoneAll the charm and elegance of natural stones are captured inPeninsula, a new porcelain stoneware range from Century that isdesigned to create classic and sophisticated environments. The mod-ular formats, with natural finishes and edges, and four colours distin-guished by strong shading, make Peninsula an elegant design solutionin both residential and commercial environments.The mass-coloured fine porcelain stoneware range represents the

most advanced quality in ceramic products for flooring. In fact, theslabs obtained from this manufacturing procedure are billed as excep-tionally resistant and compact. The body used to make Peninsula con-tains 40% recycled material, as certified by Bureau Veritas, and is,therefore, compliant with LEED standards. It also holds ANAB-ICEAcertification for green building.The range comes in four colours: Perusia, Heraclia, Antium and

Agrigentum. The modular formats are 500 by 1,000, 500 by 500, 250by 500, 250 by 250 and 333 by 333mm: all with a natural finish andnatural edges. Special pieces and decors include sheeted mosaic,sheeted tozzetti and skirtings. www.century-ceramica.it

RAK Ceramics has launched its new rangeof Listello decorative glass and porcelaintile borders. Designed to co-ordinatewith RAK’s popular Lounge tile and slabcollection, the borders can be used to cre-ate stylish, decorative features on bothwalls and floors. Six designs are included as part of thenew Listello range. Each border meas-ures 300 by 49mm with options includingpolished black or beige with rectangularglass stud inset; polished ivory or darkgrey with two square glass stud insetsand polished black or dark grey, with con-tinuous square glass stud insets.The complementary Lounge tile range

includes square and rectangle designs, with both polished and matt finishes. Colouroptions include ivory, beige, light grey, dark grey, brown and black in 300 by 300, 400by 400, 900 by 450, 300 by 600 and 600 by 600mm formats. A mixed-tone black, greyand ivory mosaic is also included within the range. Lounge slabs are also available inivory, beige, dark grey and black.01730 237850 www.rakceramics.co.uk

RAK launches Listello decorative tile borders

The Winchester Tile Company hasunveiled its latest Classic Collection ofdecorative wall tiles; a quintessentiallyBritish range that also offers a host ofcomplementary field tiles and mould-ings.The Farmyard Animals range offers ahost of hand-crafted panels (like ChickenCoop as shown here), which can eitherbe installed in their entirety (40 tile sets)or customers can opt for their preferredindividual elements from each design.The range of creatures includes chickens,hares, geese and goslings. A stunningHedgerow decorative panel (22 tile set)completes this collection. The designsare also available in full colour or sepia

on off white or grey on pure white back-grounds, resulting in a number of designpermutations.Nature lovers will be delighted with thebeautiful swooping and soaring swallowdecorative tiles - destined to be classics!Alternatively, for an authentic gardenscene, opt for the popular bugs range,with new designs including bees anddragonflies; and partner these eye-catching hand painted flying insectswith the popular Designer Flowersrange. The Classic Collection offers walltiles in both 105 by 105 by 10mm and127 by 127 by 10mm sizes.01392 473005www.winchestertiles.com

The Classic Collection of decorative wall tiles: quintessentially British

61MARCH 2012 TSJ

PORTFOLIO

Nextra from Monocibec is a fine porcelain range that captures thedensity of cement, expressing all its strength with unprecedentedsmoothness. The five colours (Bianco, Avorio, Grigio, Piombo andNero) are available with natural or polished surface finishes and can beused in both residential and commercial environments. Nextra isavailable in four formats: 450 by 450, 300 by 600, 600 by 600 and 800by 800mm. The range is Bureau Veritas-certified for the presence of40% of recycled materials and ANAB-ICEA-certified.www.monocibec.it

New porcelain range captures the density of cement

Moving away from the previous A5style publication, EverbuildBuilding Product’s new World Classcatalogue is A4 in size and reflectsa change in direction for Everbuild.The company felt that their sizeand presence in the market was notaccurately reflected in the old cata-logue. So, in its place, Everbuildhas produced a glossy, 188 pagecatalogue packed full of products,including brand staples such as

PinkGrip, Forever White, Wonder Wipes and Geo-Fix; as well assome exciting new products such as Everbuild’s brand new range ofpremium wood stains and varnishes.With a cleaner design, the World Class catalogue is neat, simple to

navigate and ideally set out so as to make the experience of brows-ing through it as pleasant for the customer as possible. In anothernew move, all product codes, bar codes and vital statistics are nowlisted underneath each individual product.The catalogue also includes the full Feb range for the first time.

Everbuild acquired Feb, the concrete and mortar admix specialists,in 2009. Everbuild feels that the time has come to bring the twobrands together, making this catalogue a one-stop shop for users’building and DIY needs.To request your copy of the new Biggest Ever Everbuild Catalogue

call 0113 240 3456 or email your request through to:reception@everbuild.co.uk.

Everbuild and Feb ranges in new A4 catalogue

The DSM20 is the latest tool in Dremel's range of Versatile Tool Systems.This compact saw has a powerful 710W motor and makes cuts up to 20mmdeep in the most common materials from tile to plastic, metal and wood.The Dremel DSM20 will make short work of any maintenance or repair proj-ects with its excellent line of sight and abrasive cutting wheels helping toachieve precise cuts in all types of tile.The Dremel DSM20 makes a beautifully clean cut compared with toothed

wheels, thanks to its abrasive wheel technology. Extremely precise, itrequires no lower guard mechanism - according to EN norms all toolsequipped with tooth-bladed wheels require this, but not when using abra-sive wheels.A very versatile tool, the Dremel DSM20 is capable of performing precise

straight cuts, flush cuts close to the surface and plunge cuts with no kick-back. In particular, its plunge cutting ability is second to none with the lackof teeth on the blades easily plunge cutting into different materials.It is easy to operate using just one hand for most cuts and its abrasive

wheels allow for both push and pull action, whichever is more convenient.Additionally, it is extremely easy to change accessories using the shaft lockbutton. The 710W worm gear driven motor runs at 17,000 RPM, ensuringthere is sufficient power for any task the DSM20 is required to perform,including tough applications. It also has a depth guide adjustment, makingit possible to cut through most materials up to 20mm.The tool is suitable for installing cabinets, cutting drywall and wood, plus

a wide variety of repair and maintenance work. It will make short work oftiling and plumbing, kitchen and bathroom installation, and flooring.The Dremel DSM20 comes with a range of accessories and attachments

supplied as standard in the tool-kit:• A 77mm Multi-Purpose Carbide Wheel, for soft and hard wood, plywood,composites, laminate flooring, drywall, PVC and plastic• Three 77mm Metal Cut-Off Wheels, for cutting copper pipe, coated wireshelving, metal, sheet aluminium and other materials• A vacuum cleaner attachment to keep the workplace clean and line of sightclear• A Straight Edge Guide, which aids in ripping materials up to 17cm wide• A 2 by 4 Cutting Guide, which fits over 37mm x 86mm timber helping to doublethe DSM20's cutting depthThe kit also comes with a welcome DVD and a sturdy, spacious storage

case. The Dremel DSM20 will be available at B&Q priced £119.98.www.dremel.co.uk

Wheels will achieve precise cuts in all types of tile

TSJMar12p60-62_News and comment 01/03/2012 10:02 Page 2

PORTFOLIO

62 TSJ MARCH 2012

Super-strength wax-removing cleanerSurface care specialist, Fila hasintroduced a super-strengthwax-removing cleaner -FilaMax. A water and solventmix formulation, FilaMax is anon-flammable productdesigned to remove existingand unidentified protectivecoatings, grease, wax and accu-mulated dirt. It can safely beused on terracotta, quarry tiles,

porcelain, glazed ceramics, concrete, polished and unpolished marbleand agglomerates, providing a thorough clean without compromisingthe natural surface.Available in five litre cans, FilaMax is cost effective and easy to use,

providing 20 sq. metre coverage per litre with a 1:5 dilution. Onceapplied, the product should be left to act for a few minutes beforecleaning the surface with a brush or single green-disc. Residuesshould then be swept or vacuumed before rinsing the surface.01584 877286 www.filachim.com.en

Santa Margherita, the Italianmanufacturer of marble andquartz sand and resin agglom-erates, has introduced SecondLife: a new material with up to90% recycled content. The

Second Life range is available in eight colours: Carbone, Argilla,Cenere, Sabbia, Gesso, Corteccia, Basalto and Lava in two standardslab sizes: 3,050 by 1,400 by 12mm, 20mm and 30mm. It also comesin various tile formats including 300 by 300 by 12mm, 400 by 400 by12mm and 600 by 600 by 12mm; as well as 500 by 70 by 10mm skirt-ings. Four finish options are available: polished, honed, brushed andantique. With Second Life, Santa Margherita offers the market anengineered stonerange that is capable of meeting several criteria ofthe LEED building system. www.santamargherita.net

EvolutionStone by Marazzi is the original interpretation of seven valu-able natural stones characterized by the perfection of ceramic technol-ogy. Produced in large size, Serena, Piasentina, Ardesia, Malaga,Luserna, Quarzite and Pierre Bleue are obtained by means of an inno-vative cutting-edge industrial process with an ecological approach.Made in porcelain stoneware with double loading, and can be used forboth interior and exterior environments in home or high-traffic com-mercial contexts. The different surface structures allow for installationsolutions with indoor-outdoor continuity.www.marazzi.it

Lapicida has reinforced its reputation for antique floors with a new Antique Englishcollection that brings together some of the most charismatic of the UK’s traditionalnative stones. The selected stones come with their own provenance and many areextremely rare, such as the 19th Century Limestone floor recovered from the Bishop’sPalace in Ripon. Composed of square tiles, it has an unusual ecclesiastical design thatis also found in Durham Cathedral. The collection also includes a distinctive herring-bone floor, shown bottom right. Lapicida’s services extend far beyond the stone. Reclaimed stone comes in irregu-

lar sizes and thicknesses: not ideal for today’s homes. However, Lapicida’s custom-cut service can transform random flags into regularly-dimensioned pieces withoutaffecting their beauty. If required, stone can be hand-selected to achieve a specificspectrum of colour. Another element of this bespoke service sees Lapicida combin-ing different native stones into highly decorative patterned floors to order.Lapicida’s hi-tech workshops also have a sustainability factor; extending the use of

old stone by transforming it into a range of different products. The First Face (bot-tom left, floor) retains all the patina of the antique stone but has a uniform thickness.The Second Face (bottom left, left wall) produces a wholly uniform tile for walls orfloors; while the Reverse Face (bottom left, right wall) creates an excitingly irregularwall tile.01423 400 500 www.lapicida.com

Lapicida’s new Antique English collection bringstogether the UK’s most charismatic traditional stones

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