Rob Russell – Technical Consultant, Bostik UK
What does the phrase “the meat in the sandwich” mean? Bear with me on this…
According to the dictionary, it means “you are in a very difficult situation because you have been caught between the two that conflict with each other.” Feeling pressure from both sides – reminds me of my days in flooring contracting!
I use this phrase as an analogy to compare how we select a sandwich to how we choose the right preparation and adhesive products for installing floor coverings. The top slice of the “sandwich” is the floor covering material, “the meat in the middle” is the floor preparation and adhesive products, and the bottom slice of the sandwich is the subfloor.
Giving the choice of floor prep and adhesive products due consideration
The flooring is manufactured to serve a few purposes, from meeting functional demands to creating an appealing design. The subfloor often poses a challenge, as it sometimes resists being covered and needs to remain uncompromised. When looking at it closer, does it adhere to best practices and standards? Is the construction moisture concealed? Is it contaminated with residue? Is it uneven and, possibly, cracking up?
Usually, the filling is the deciding factor when choosing a sandwich. Still, when it comes to floor coverings, the floor covering itself (the top slice) is often decided on first due to the design and how it will perform within its environment. What’s under the floor covering (sandwich filling) is not seen, but it’s a fundamental ingredient in the recipe that delivers a successful experience.
Without due care and consideration, using the wrong ingredients and application will result in the sandwich being returned. We need to investigate and weigh up the options to create the right flavour to satisfy the taste buds.
Choosing products based on the floor coverings and testing instead of gut feeling and familiarity
How do we choose “the meat in the middle” to satisfy the taste buds? In the flooring world, the filling depends on the top and bottom slices, and the environment. There are many filling options to match the many different needs. You are not alone. More help is available now than ever – from on and off-site testing to training to tools and materials – all helping to provide the most relevant “menu”. Depending on who is choosing, and because everyone has a different “taste”, some will look at the price first, others will go with their gut. Is a quick snack required or a more refined experience?
Back to flooring terms, do we go with our gut feeling and use the usual “go-to” product, or do we look at using the science and testing that has been carried out? The industry has advanced significantly over the years, offering a wide range of products – from loose-lay installations and soundproof underlayments to new construction techniques that address evolving requirements and time constraints. With the abundance of research, ongoing testing, and on-site technical assessments, having this scientific knowledge helps us to know what to expect rather than hope for. All stakeholders aim to minimise risk, so understanding the facts is crucial for making the right choices rather than gambling on the chance that nothing will go wrong in the long run.
Ensuring successful applications by utilising resources available
I was brought up as an installer the “old fashioned way”, so I admit, I used to mix screed with a broom stick! But surely, a powered whisk with the right attachment is the way forward! Some of the things we used to do on site would probably be laughed at on a modern building site. The acceptance of new methods has had to come due to the vast change in materials and the way buildings are built now as opposed to years ago.
Not being complacent and looking at the “menu” for each meal will win through every time. With the next generation of installers entering the industry, what a great advantage they have in learning from seasoned professionals on site along with being able to access the science, creating an old head on young shoulders.
Over the years, we have all seen advances in the flooring industry. Thankfully, there are more resources available now than ever before. Installation training to create the skill, vast information available for the decision makers, changes in manufacturing technology, more specific product options, improved environmental practices and standards now in place.
As you can see, I consider the “filling” to be very important. What you picked last time may not delight the taste buds this time.
To gain a better understanding of the product selection, and for additional information, we recommend downloading the Bostik Pro app, or attending one of the many free training courses that Bostik has to offer.
