ARDEX Americas announced a new customer campaign earlier this year, “Built by You, Backed by ARDEX”, which incorporates elements from all segments of the business. The campaign draws inspiration from installers, contractors, designers and architects. It recognizes the commitment each has to the pursuit of excellence in their trade.
ARDEX is proud to back tradesmen and tradeswomen with a commitment to manufacturing exceptional products and systems. By expanding training opportunities, and standing behind product and system warranties, ARDEX places their customer at the forefront of their efforts.
“We’re excited to recognize our installers,” said Ben Mack, U.S. General Manager Sales and Marketing of ARDEX Americas. “Their remarkable dedication to installations that will stand the test of decades inspired us to launch this new campaign.”
“Built by You” is customer-centric and details the ways ARDEX is focused on meeting the needs of everyone, including contractors, business owners, architects and distributors. ARDEX is proud to back its customers with exceptional products for flooring, tiling and concrete applications, and support through project recommendations, industry-best warranties and timely, responsive training opportunities.
About ARDEX, A Leading Solution and Service Provider of Innovative Building Systems: Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. A family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information on ARDEX Americas, please https://www.ardexamericas.com or call 1-888-512-7339.
Concrete Coatings and Flooring Materials During Winter
During the cold winter months, flooring and other over-concrete applications can be especially challenging. From transport to storage to installation and cure, special care must be taken when substrate and ambient temperatures are cool.
Best practices include checking a product’s technical data for ideal storage and installation temperatures. The industry standard minimum temperature is 50°F (10°C) for ambient, substrate, and material temperatures. Cooler temperatures tend to lengthen drying and/or cure times for bonded materials. To facilitate drying, always circulate the air above the surface, and never blow air directly on the surface of a material as it cures.
Liquids
Typically, liquids such as epoxies, primers, additives and sealers should not be allowed to freeze. Always check a product’s technical data for confirmation, and check with the product’s manufacturer to see if frozen liquids can be evaluated for installation suitability. Damaged materials that cannot be installed should always be disposed of in accordance with prevailing regulations.
Powders
Most cementitious, polymer-modified powders, such as underlayments and toppings, are stable to freezing temperatures. However, it is typically advisable to store them at temperatures above 50°F (10°C). When very cold, polymers may not perform as intended, possibly resulting in product failure. Additionally, products may not have a workable consistency and will take longer to set.
For these types of powder materials, it is best practice to avoid installation when temperatures will fall below 40°F (5°C) within 48 hours after installation. It is also generally not recommended to use warm water to compensate for cold temperatures, as this can impair the workability of the products.
Adhesives
While most flooring adhesives are freeze/thaw stable (check the adhesive’s technical data for confirmation), it is typically necessary to protect them from excessively low temperatures and multiple freeze / thaw cycles. It is best practice to use heated transit and heated storage.
Check with the adhesive manufacturer to verify the recommended procedure for frozen materials. Often, adhesives can be thawed gradually at room temperature and installed, provided they resume their original consistency.
Temporary Heat
While tenting and temporary heat is always an option in colder temperatures, note that heat sources that use fossil fuels and heat sources that are not properly vented can leave behind oily, bond-breaking residues on the surface of the substrate. Properly vented propane or natural gas heaters are best. Check with product manufacturers to verify proper temporary heating methods.
Tivona has been with ARDEX since 2010. Her areas of expertise are product documentation and jobsite recommendations, and she has been certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. Tivona and her team of technical writers produce all technical documentation for the company, including technical data sheets, labels, project-specific recommendations and technical updates.
NAFCT Appoints Board of Directors, Includes ARDEX’ Seth Pevarnik
Aliquippa, PA, November 3, 2020 – Early last month the National Association of Floor Covering Technicians (NAFCT) announced its formation. Dedicated to improving the flooring industry, NAFCT is also focused on working together to assist in a solution to the industry installation shortage. To accomplish this, NAFCT has partnered with manufacturers, subject matter experts, and other flooring associations to provide accessible, affordable, advanced education, training and certification programs for installers.
ARDEX Americas is a founding member of the association, and is proud to be included in their newly formed Board of Directors, through the inclusion of Seth Pevarnik, Director of Technical Services. Pevarnik said,
“We are enthusiastic about the launch of the NAFCT, and believe that the educational and training opportunities, coupled with the certifications it will provide for the industry, are pivotal in training the next generation of installers to help support an industry that desperately needs them.”
In addition to representing ARDEX as a member of the Board of Directors, Seth also has been nominated to the role of NAFCT Committee Chair for Education and the Sub-Committee Chair for Substrates and Subfloors. Seth has a passion for industry training and education dating back to the beginning of his career at ARDEX in 1991. Pevarnik said,
“I am excited to help drive training and education through NAFCT as this is not only the backbone of NAFCT, but is the backbone of ARDEX.”
To learn more about the NAFCT, visit NAFCT.com and connect with them on social media @NAFCT4U.
About ARDEX, A Global Innovation Leader in High Performance Specialty Building Materials:
Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. As a family-owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information about ARDEX Americas: www.ardexamericas.com, or call 724-203-5000.
The ARDEX Rapid Flooring Installation System
This year has brought many changes to the construction industry, and everyone who is involved with it. More than ever, installers need to respond to changing demands fast. At the same time, they need reliable, high quality products that get the job done right, the first time. ARDEX offers complete product systems, to help installers do their best work, at a pace that will keep installations on the fast track.
One recent addition to the ARDEX portfolio is the Rapid Flooring Installation System, which is the fastest system on the market, letting our customers install the finished floor in less than 3 hours! The system consists of three products, the primer ARDEX P 4TM, ARDEX K 40TM RAPID self-leveling underlayment and finally the roll-apply adhesive HENRY® 647 PlumPro.
ARDEX P 4 is a pre-mixed, multipurpose primer that can be used with ARDEX Tile & Stone products as well as most ARDEX Underlayments. It dries in as little as 30 minutes and has a white color to clearly identify primed areas and achieve optimal results.
The rapid, high flow self-leveling underlayment ARDEX K 40 RAPID can be used to level and smooth interior concrete, terrazzo, ceramic and quarry tile, epoxy coating systems and non-water-soluble adhesive residue on concrete. It levels from 1/8” (3 mm) up to 1” (24 mm) thick and it’s rapid dry technology lets you install flooring after only two hours.
The last step in the system is the HENRY 647 PlumPro Fast-Track, Roll-Apply Vinyl Flooring Adhesive. It’s moisture resistant up to 99% RH and dry-to-the-touch in just minutes.
The complete system solution from ARDEX is both, reliable and fast! For more information on the system, or the complete ARDEX product line-up, visit our website at www.ardexamericas.com.
ARDEX RECOGNIZED AT 2020 STARNET DESIGN AWARDS
ARDEX Americas was delighted to be recognized at the 2020 Starnet Commercial Flooring Design Awards across different categories. Starnet, the largest network of independent flooring contractors, is committed to raising the bar in the flooring industry. This year’s awards drew nearly 40 applications from flooring contractors who used ARDEX or HENRY products for their installation.
“ARDEX is grateful to be included in a number of prize-winning installations from across the country,” said Robert Dalton, ARDEX Manager of Strategic Partnerships. “Starnet’s Design Awards provide a welcome opportunity to recognize outstanding flooring contractors, and we are pleased to be a part of it.”
The winning installations that named ARDEX, or HENRY, as a preferred vendor are:
The Idea Garage – Studio B2SJ: ReSource Colorado
Gold Winner: Corporate
About ARDEX, A Global Innovation Leader in High Performance Specialty Building Materials: Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. As a family-owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information about ARDEX Americas: www.ardexamericas.com, or call 724-203-5000.
Virtual Learning Flyer from ARDEX
Making it Easy to Access Video Content!
Aliquippa, PA, May 7, 2020 – ARDEX Americas has created an easy access virtual learning flyer to help customers connect with an extensive video library. This video library features learning options such as; project showcases, product demonstrations, the “Ask the Expert” series and many more.
The videos are available in English, Spanish and French by making one simple “click” on the flyer, providing flexibility and convenience. In addition, the flyer can be easily shared and downloaded for ease of use.
Annika Oeing, ARDEX Americas Marketing Manager notes, “We see a high demand for educational content and want to share our creative video options in an easy access format. Something that is straightforward and concise, helping customers with direct access to virtual learning.”
To access this new virtual learning resource, please click here to download. For more information, and to register for an upcoming webinar, visit www.ardexamericas.com.
About ARDEX, A Leading Solution and Service Provider of Innovative Building Systems:
Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. A family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information on ARDEX Americas, please visit www.ardexamericas.com or call 1-888-512-7339.
Learn from Home with Free AIA/CEU Webinars from ARDEX
***UPDATED*** Learn from Home with Free AIA/CEU Webinars from ARDEX
Aliquippa, PA, April 28, 2020 – ARDEX Americas extended its successful AIA/CEU webinar series through May and June, inviting you to stay connected and continue your education. This free webinar series, though designed for architects, are also available to the general public.
Topics covered include stone veneer, adhesive systems and polished concrete. Each webinar, led by an instructor with decades of industry knowledge and expertise, is designed to offer a comprehensive overview of the chosen topic.
The webinars are held on Thursdays, from 2 pm to 3:30 pm EDT. For more information, and to register for an upcoming webinar, visit www.ardexamericas.com.
About ARDEX, A Leading Solution and Service Provider of Innovative Building Systems:
Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. A family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information on ARDEX Americas, please visit www.ardexamericas.com or call 1-888-512-7339.
A Message to Our Partners
As we all work through these concerning days, the health and well-being of our customers and our partners, as well as our employees and their families, continue to be foremost in our minds. At ARDEX Americas, we are maintaining precautionary actions to prevent the introduction of this virus into our facilities and will continue to follow the recommendations made by health officials. At the same time, we are meticulously managing both raw materials and production levels to ensure we are not only ready to serve you today, but are well-prepared for the inevitable increase in construction activity as we emerge from this crisis.
At present, all ARDEX Americas manufacturing locations are open and running normal operations with contingency plans in place should circumstances change. Our hats are off to our Production, Shipping and QC teams across the country who have been committed to keeping our plants open and running, allowing crucial material to be manufactured for our customers to service critical and essential construction projects.
The ARDEX office, Sales and Technical teams are also fully engaged, however, in conformance with prescribed precautions, are implementing creative ways to service the market through digital communications, virtual project support, online and remote Academy training and social media interaction. Requirements to mitigate this global threat are changing daily, and we will endeavor to keep you updated in a timely manner should the situation change within our organization.
On behalf of our entire team, we wish each of you good health and look forward to being here to serve you in the days ahead. If you have any questions or concerns, please call 888-512-7339 or contact your local ARDEX Sales Professional.
The ARDEX Leadership Team
COVID-19 statement
As a global entity with locations in over 50 countries around the world, ARDEX is acutely aware of the far-reaching impact being felt by the spread of COVID-19. Through these concerning days, the health and well-being of our customers and our partners, as well as our employees and their families are foremost in our minds. We have taken precautionary actions to prevent the introduction of this virus into our facilities and will continue to follow the recommendations made by health officials to protect our customers, partners and employees.
At ARDEX Americas, contingency plans are in place to address potential issues across all our operations. As circumstances change, we continuously review and shift our planning to best serve our customers. At present, all ARDEX Americas manufacturing locations are open and running normal operations. The ARDEX office and sales teams are also fully engaged, however, in deference to precaution may shift face-to-face meetings to electronic communication where it makes sense. Requirements to mitigate this threat can change daily, and we will endeavor to keep you updated in a timely manner should the situation change within our organization.
On behalf of our entire team, we wish each of you good health and look forward to being here to serve you in the days ahead.
ARDEX Americas promotes Ben Mack to U.S. General Manager, Sales and Marketing
ARDEX Americas is pleased to announce the promotion of Ben Mack, Director of Marketing, to the position of U.S. General Manager, Sales and Marketing.
Jesse David, President, ARDEX Americas explains, “For over 16 years, Ben has demonstrated a focused energy and vision on driving value for our customers as well as supporting the needs of our sales professionals. This effort has contributed to the expansion of our corporate marketing capability, technical expertise and product segment presence while heightening awareness of the ARDEX and HENRY brands throughout the Americas.”
In his most recent role as Director of Marketing, Ben managed teams focused on marketing communication, technical services, product development, business development and general strategy. For the last three years, Ben has also been acting as the Corporate Unit Leader for Global Marketing at ARDEX, helping to drive critical global initiatives related to communications, digital marketing and product development.
In this new role, Ben will oversee the departments of U.S. Tiling and Flooring Sales, Corporate Marketing and Technical Services. This promotion is part of an overall corporate strategy to provide an increased focus and commitment of service and support to our customers.
About ARDEX, A Leading Solution and Service Provider of Innovative Building Systems:
Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. A family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information on ARDEX Americas, please visit www.ardexamericas.com or call 1-888-512-7339
NAFCT Heat Weld, Flash Cover Certification Course held in Aliquippa
Eduardo Martinez Awarded Bruce Newbrough Memorial Scholarship
Eduardo Martinez is the most recent recipient of the Bruce Newbrough Memorial Certified Installation Manager Program (CIM) Scholarship. Eduardo is a project manager with Martinez Carpet Installations. The scholarship is provided in partnership with FCICA and ARDEX Americas
“I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t near my dad working with floors. I have tried my best to follow in his footsteps, always having my share of failures I continue to move forward with those lessons. I’m a third-generation installer and very passionate about what I do. This isn’t a job to me, it’s a lifelong mission to promote trades and trade education as an honest and great choice for any young man or woman trying to decide their future. I am absolutely grateful for the opportunity to become a CIM.”
The Bruce Newbrough Memorial Scholarship assists with the costs associated with the entire Certified Installation Manager (CIM) program, including application, content and assessment fees. The scholarship was created to honor Bruce Newbrough, an ARDEX Director of Technical Services and later Applications Development, with a passion for advancing the flooring industry through education.
Applications for the scholarship are accepted throughout the year. Visit the FCICA website: www.fcica.com/CIM to apply. Read the FCICA press release here.
About ARDEX, A Global Innovation Leader in High Performance Specialty Building Materials: Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. As family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information about ARDEX Americas: www.ardexamericas.com, or call 724-203-5000.
About the Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program:
The CIM program provides industry-specific training modules led by experts that speak from years of floor covering experience packaged with assessments to confirm the vast knowledge obtained. The program is completely online, allowing users to work at their own pace, on their own time. For more information about the CIM Program, go to www.fcica.com/CIM.
About FCICA: FCICA, headquartered in West Bloomfield, Michigan, is the resource for premier commercial flooring contractors. Promoting the advancement and continuous development of Certified Installation Managers (CIM). Providing technical education, business support and industry expert networking. Delivering skills and knowledge to enhance the professionalism of commercial flooring contractors. FCICA is an international association whose contractor members serve the continental United States, plus Canada and Guam. For more information about FCICA: visit www.fcica.com or call 248-661-5015; toll free (877) TO-FCICA.
Introducing ARDEX FEATHER FINISH® XF™
ARDEX Americas, a leader in the manufacture of specialty building products, announced today the launch of ARDEX FEATHER FINISH® XF™ Self-Drying, Cement-Based Finish Underlayment.
ARDEX FEATHER FINISH XF joins ARDEX FEATHER FINISH® and ARDEX’ full line of high-quality patching compounds designed to eliminate flooring installation problems associated with disbonding, crumbling, mold, mildew and staining.
Like classic ARDEX FEATHER FINISH, ARDEX FEATHER FINISH XF is a self-drying, finishing underlayment, designed to provide a smooth surface prior to the installation of floor covering over a variety of substrates. It installs from a true feather-edge, up to unlimited depth in defined areas and can receive floor coverings in as little as 15 minutes. Also suitable for castor wheels, ARDEX FEATHER FINISH XF is mold and mildew resistant.
Jody Proudfit, ARDEX Product Category Manager Patching and Finishing, said, “ARDEX FEATHER FINISH XF is a welcome addition to our patching solutions. It’s a great product that you can trust to deliver the highest quality just like our classic FEATHER FINISH.” He added, “FEATHER FINISH XF offers our customers another excellent choice when it comes to patching solutions, one worthy of carrying the esteemed FEATHER FINISH brand.”
To learn more about the ARDEX FEATHER FINISH XF, and all of our patching solutions, please visit www.ardexamericas.com.
A Global Innovation Leader in High Performance Specialty Building Materials: Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. A family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information about ARDEX Americas: www.ardexamericas.com, or call 724-203-5000.
ARDEX Group Expands in New Joint Venture with Ceramfix, Brazil
Witten, Germany – The ARDEX Group, a leader in the manufacture of high performance, specialty building materials, announced today it has acquired a strategic stake in Ceramfix of Brazil.
Ceramfix is a leading manufacturer of products for the installation of ceramic tiles, including mortars, tile adhesives, grouts, waterproofing, and accessories. Founded in 1993, Ceramfix is now among the top four tiling companies in Brazil.
“We are delighted to welcome Ceramfix to the ARDEX Group,” said Mark Eslamlooy, CEO ARDEX Group. “Their culture of customer service and innovative product technology will be a great addition to our company, allowing us to now serve customers in the Brazilian market.”
“We look forward to continuing our growth trajectory alongside the ARDEX Group,” said Shareholders and Managing Directors Antonio Carlos Schmitt, Francisco Hostins and Mario Jose Schmitt. “Like the ARDEX Group, we’re a family business and we expect the similar corporate cultures to foster creative synergies far into the future.”
Ceramfix will remain an independent company within the ARDEX Group, managed by the current shareholders and leadership staff.
About Ceramfix
Founded in 1993, Ceramfix Group is a family-owned company that manufactures products for the installation of ceramic tiles, including mortars, tile adhesives, grouts, waterproofing and accessories. As one of the major tiling companies in Brazil, Ceramfix has 10 facilities including manufacturing centers, warehouses, training centers and sales offices. Ceramfix is equally dedicated to delivering both agility and quality in the marketplace. For more information, visit www.ceramfix.com.br.
Bruce Newbrough Memorial Scholarship Winner: Omar Shukri
The Flooring Contractors Association, FCICA, announced Omar Shukri as the latest recipient of the Bruce Newbrough Memorial Certified Installation Manager Program (CIM) Scholarship. Omar is a national project coordinator with FloorMax USA. The scholarship is provided in partnership with ARDEX Americas.
I feel that with my experience, I am capable of accomplishing anything in this field. With [the title Certified Installation Manager,] it will only be beneficial on my journey to my goals,” Omar said about wanting to become a CIM. “The Bruce Newbrough CIM Scholarship will help me advance with a title to prove my experience and knowledge.
The Bruce Newbrough Memorial Scholarship, created in remembrance of Bruce Newbrough, covers the costs associated with the entire Certified Installation Manager (CIM) program, including application, content and assessment fees. Bruce Newbrough was an ARDEX Director of Technical Services and later Applications Development, and had a passion for advancing the flooring industry through education.
Applications for the scholarship are accepted throughout the year. Visit the FCICA website: www.fcica.com/CIM to apply. Read the FCICA press release here.
About ARDEX, A Global Innovation Leader in High Performance Specialty Building Materials: Recognized by installation experts, ARDEX is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance specialty building products for all aspects of substrate preparation, floor covering, tile and stone installation systems and architectural concrete systems for commercial and residential applications. As family owned company, the ARDEX Group leads through local customer interaction striving for excellence in all that we do. For more information about ARDEX Americas: www.ardexamericas.com, or call 724-203-5000.
About the Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program:
The CIM program provides industry-specific training modules led by experts that speak from years of floor covering experience packaged with assessments to confirm the vast knowledge obtained. The program is completely online, allowing users to work at their own pace, on their own time. For more information about the CIM Program, go to www.fcica.com/CIM.
About FCICA: FCICA, headquartered in West Bloomfield, Michigan, is the resource for premier commercial flooring contractors. Promoting the advancement and continuous development of Certified Installation Managers (CIM). Providing technical education, business support and industry expert networking. Delivering skills and knowledge to enhance the professionalism of commercial flooring contractors. FCICA is an international association whose contractor members serve the continental United States, plus Canada and Guam. For more information about FCICA: visit www.fcica.com or call 248-661-5015; toll free (877) TO-FCICA.
Safety Milestone Celebrated at ARDEX Americas Dallas, Georgia Plant
The ARDEX Americas plant in Dallas, Georgia, just reached an important safety milestone: four years without an OSHA recordable incident. The team of about 25 employees celebrated with a southern shrimp luncheon. The plant, which produces both powders and adhesives, also celebrated over 10 years without a lost time incident. It was a job well done, demonstrating ARDEX’ commitment to safety in the workplace.
Witten, Germany – The ARDEX Group, a leader in the manufacture of high performance, specialty building materials, announced today it has acquired a strategic stake in Ceramfix of Brazil.
