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flooringsupply | Flooring Supply Shop Blog - Part 17

Author: flooringsupply

ANSI 137.1 Dynamic Coefficient of Friction Standard

Invisatread, Anti-slip Solutions, Child safety, slip and fall protection, Pool Safety, Safety Products, Bath Tub Protection, Bathroom Safety

ANSI 137.1 Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) STANDARD

After years research, the tile industry has now passed a new standard for measuring and method for testing Dynamic Coefficient of Friction. This new standard is just pending publication in a few weeks.

The standard stipulates the use of the BOT 3000 by Regan Scientific, with a rubber sensor and a slightly soapy solution of .05% Sodium Laurel Sulfate and water.

Historically, many people who specify tile including architects, designers and developers would reference ASTM 1028C and a measurement once referenced by ADA of .60 for horizontal surfaces and .80 for ramps.

This method of testing for friction lacked enthusiasm by many as it was inconsistent in measure, failed to test friction in motion and lacked industry guidance as to whether the .60 / .80 was to be tested wet or dry. A number of years ago the ADA retracted its recommendation of .60.

What is Coefficient of Friction (COF)?

The measurement of resistance to friction as related to the effect of how smooth or rough a surface is to prevent material to “slip” across the surface. COF is measure two forms:

Static COF (SCOF): the force applied to start moving

Dynamic COF (DCOF): force applied when moving

Now, with the use of the BOT 3000 and a standard for testing in ANSI 137.1; Architects, Designers and others can test and choose surfaces for a specific function and verify friction more efficiently and consistently.

For surfaces that would be specified in interior areas that will be walked on when wet, ANSI 137.1 stipulates they should have a DCOF of >.42.

Should an area function require additional friction Architects and designers should specify higher friction where needed. The new ANSI 137.1 does not make any DCOF recommendations for outdoor areas or ramps.

This measure of friction is not enough to just consider a surface slip resistance. Surfaces and area uses should be taken into consideration. Surfaces should be maintained as clean and periodically deep cleaned in order to maintain friction. The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) goes on to state that the DCOF of surfaces over time will change and should be checked periodically to verify they are still functioning by design. Should surfaces lose friction over time, they can be enhanced for friction with slip resistant treatments.

Surface Solution: The InvisaTread® family of products has been formulated to increase the coefficient of friction of most hard surfaces without changing their look or feel.

InvisaTread® Slip Resistant Treatment

InvisaTread® is a mild micro-etching product that lightly and evenly etches the surface creating a more consistent traction pattern across the entire surface. InvisaTread® is not a coating, but rather a safe and effective process that works on most hard mineral surfaces.

Slip Resistance Management

Problem: You need data. Surface COF needs to be tested, adjusted and verified – on an on-going basis.

Surface Solution: In addition to our InvisaTread® family of products which are designed to increase the Coefficient of Friction (COF) of walking surfaces, we also offer a full range of surface assessment, testing and verification services.

How It Works

Our team of experts and traction technicians are able to custom tailor a program for your facility that will focus on a number of solutions to not only help reduce the risks of these accidents and the potential costs associated with them but also offer you detailed reporting and auditing of your walkway surface safety.

  • We will create a custom program of friction testing.
  • Periodic Surface Audits
  • Areas of high or above average “slip risk” will be identified and tested with our BOT-3000 teams.
  • Coefficient of Friction (COF) remediation.
  • Develop a program of increasing COF where needed.
  • Application of slip-resistant treatments, coatings or installation of unique surfaces.
  • Design and help implement on-going cleaning, care and maintenance programs.
  • All surface testing will be documented and reported.

Contact our team today to discuss how you can benefit from one of our custom surface testing programs and how InvisaTread® can help you. contact@flooringsupplyshop.com or 877-880-8453

Stainless Steel Fixtures for Your Bathroom

bathroom accessories, Corners shelves, Towel Bars, Tooth Brush Holder, shower recess, niches, ready to tile recess, shower seats

Stainless Steel Fixtures for Your Bathroom

When people think of remodeling their bathroom, they need to a wise decision regarding fixtures as it can alter the entire look of the room. Generally, a bathroom has sink and bathtub, which does not add to the style of the room; however with the help of elegant and stylish fixtures one can add to the aesthetic look. While choosing the fixtures, one needs to keep various things in perspective, such as finish, function, design, and installation. Certain changes to the fixtures can give bathroom a whole new look, without any need of changing or replacing every installation. Among the various options available in the market, stainless steel bathroom fixtures have become quite popular among homeowners.

Stainless steel fixtures can breathe new life into any bathroom by giving it a contemporary look. These fixtures are simple and stylish, which blend beautifully with any kind of decor. It especially looks great with traditional decor, amalgamating best of both. Lending a modern look to the room, these are strong and durable, particularly those with seamless welding and one piece construction. The heavy gauge stainless steel metal fixtures do not tarnish, spot or chip easily; instead these are moisture and heat resistant.

Ebbe shower drain, square shower drain, Ebbe drain, Quartz by aco, Shower Channels, Linear Drain, linear shower channel, shower channel drain, Quick Drain, square drain, rectangle drains, floor grilles, shower grates, Quick Drain

In case you are planning to renew your bathroom, you should choose amongst the various stainless steel fixtures available in the market. You can select stainless steel sink, countertops, bathtubs, faucets, shower-heads Quartz Linear drains, Ebbe Square drains, Shampoo baskets and many more. Additionally, you can also go for stainless steel door hook, towel bar, door knobs, and trash to remodel your bathroom. It is important to wisely choose amongst these fixtures because using just stainless steel fixtures in the bathroom can be overwhelming. If you use a stainless steel tub with a porcelain sink, then it may look a little weird. Hence, it is important to appropriately select the bathroom fixtures so that it adds to the look of the place, rather than making it unappealing.

Ebbe shower drain, square shower drain, Ebbe drain, Quartz by aco, Shower Channels, Linear Drain, linear shower channel, shower channel drain, Quick Drain, square drain, rectangle drains, floor grilles, shower grates, Quick Drain

Though these do not require much maintenance, over time, these bathroom fixtures tend to attract dust and scum that leave the bathroom in an unsightly mess. This can readily be dealt with the help of cleaning products, which are easily available in the market. Besides cleaners, there are home remedies that are also effective in cleaning stainless steel fixtures. For example, one can spray club soda on the fixtures and wipe it clean with the help of cloth or sponge. However, one must ensure not to use SOS pads as these are made of steel wool that can leave scratch on the surface of the fixtures or remove the finish. Some people may argue that these fixtures are expensive, but they do not realize that it is a smart investment; not only is it aesthetically appealing but also durable, strong, and long lasting.

bathroom accessories, Corners shelves, Towel Bars, Tooth Brush Holder, shower recess, niches, ready to tile recess, shower seats

Hence, if you plan to make your bathroom look sleek and appealing, stainless steel fixtures must be your foremost choice. These fixtures can even make a bland and normal white bathroom look more attractive. However, striking a balance and not going overboard is essential in remodeling your bathroom with these fixtures.

Copyright © 2006 – 2012 FlooringSupplyShop.com

Benefit and used of Radiant Towel Warmer

Radiant Towel Warmer

Benefits and Uses of Radiant Towel Warmer

Towel warmer, heated towel rails, not only offer visual appeal but serve as a multi-functional accessory. Once marketed only to upscale spas and hotels, homeowners on any budget can now afford the luxury of owning a towel warmer.

Towel warmers are designed to warm and dry bath linens faster than air drying, It is a sustainable and more energy efficient to reduce laundry loads with the added benefit of keeping ‘damp’ towels from becoming mildewed and insanitary, Moreover, in colder temperatures, most towel warmers also serve as space heaters. Stainless steel towel warmers have proven to be more sustainable and resistant to corrosion and flaking than those that are chrome plated or powder coated.

Save Energy – Much Cheaper to use than A Clothes Dryer

On average, Towel warmer use between 35 -100 watts pf e;electricity (compared to dryers that on average use 4,900 watts). You can really save on unnecessary loads by keeping your towels dry and fresh between uses. Use your Towel Warmer instated of dryer and make some real energy saving!

Towel warmers now come in wide range of shapes, sizes and finishes. Most models are designed to run continuously, however, towel warmers are extremely energy efficient. Towel warmers use less electricity than several light bulbs and may add a thermostat and or timer and accessories.

Towel Warmer can be used in a variety of ways:

Bathroom

Not only do towel warmers warm and dry damp towels, they generate radiant warmth that can double as an alternative source of heat in the bathroom. Towel warmers also prevent mold from creating and are child friendly as well. Towel warmers reduce laundry loads!

Laundry Room

Radiant Towel warmers are great for drying damp clothes like socks and mittens. They are also ideal for drying delicate garment like lingerie and sweaters. As an added bonus, hang dry pants to De-wrinkle.

Spas and Pools

Anyone who owns a pool or spa can benefit from towel warmer. They are wonderful for keeping towels and bathing suits dry. Towel warmers also combat the damp humidity that is enclosed in pool areas.

Mud rooms

Mud rooms can quite possibly be the most important room in a home, serving as rear or side entrance used by residents, Towel warmers are great for kid’s damp cloths and helps keep moisture of the air making floors slip-resistant. Great for drying and warming ski equipment and jacket.

Hotels

An incredible luxury and major asset to any hotel bathroom, Towel Warmers complete the relaxing, memorable experience found in any resort. Also reduces laundry cycles, great for drying bathing suits and ski equipment.

Basement

An appropriate size towel warmer installed in a basement can remove dampness and provide radiant heat, keeping your basement dry and warm. Towel Warmers custom range is ideal for these spaces.

Radiant Towel warmers, heater towel rails, not only offer visual appeal but serve as a multi-functional accessory. Once marketed only to upscale spas and hotels, homeowners on any budget can now afford the luxury of owning a towel warmer.

Towel Warmers Installation and care instructions

Copyright © 2010 FlooringSupplyShop.com

Before and After pictures of Polishing stone

Before and After picture using Cheetah Eco Friendly Stone Polishing Pad

Marble floor polished with Cheetah pad

Before using Cheetah pad on Marble floor

Marble Countertop polished with Cheetah pad

Marble countertop before polishingMarble countertop After picture

Bid Adios to Lippage with Tuscan Leveling System

tile, leveling, lippage, stone, marble, grout, ceramic, floor, flat, surfaces, granite, spacers, slab, stone, installation

Flooring is an integral part of every home that can alone change the entire look of the house. Homeowners generally opt for marble, ceramic, tiles and stone flooring that respectively have distinct advantages and disadvantages. However, one problem that majority of the homeowners face while installing these flooring options is lippage.

Lippage is a common problem wherein the leveling or flatness of the flooring is affected due to the difference in the elevation of the tiles. This not only affects the overall appearance of the room but also results in various problems, such as unevenness. The main cause of lippage is the installation of the flooring on subsurface which has not been leveled. An easy way of eliminating this problem is to make use of the Tuscan Leveling System which ensures a uniform surface.

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This innovative product has changed the way flooring is installed as it completely eliminates lippage. This 2-piece system has revolutionized the tile installation by ensuring flatness and creating virtually lippage free flooring. It can be used for leveling of floor as well as walls, wherein the numerous tiles are interlocked to form one uniform even surface at the time of curing of the setting material.

This proves beneficial as the Tuscan Leveling System results in reduction of shrinkage as well as warping to a great extent. Furthermore, it also minimizes the instance of re-lifting the tiles for the addition of mud as well as shimming process of tiles. All this and more facilitate the process of installation, making it easy, effective and time-saving.

tile, leveling, lippage, stone, marble, grout, ceramic, floor, flat, surfaces, granite, spacers, slab, stone, installation

Homeowners can learn to use the hassle-free Tuscan Leveling System in just a few minutes. Irrespective of the skill level of the homeowner, the DIY Tuscan Leveling System Kit can be used by anyone and everyone. With the help of this leveling system installation process becomes fast and the tiles do not move while drying. Use of this system not only eliminates lippage due to its interlocking design, but also reduces fatigue and stress of the homeowners. This leveling system is considered ideal for tiles 300mm or more. Besides, the caps can be used several times.

Simply following the Tuscan Leveling System installation guidelines, homeowners can ensure a single flat and uniform surface. There are certain measures that the homeowners can take to ensure best results. One such simple step to be taken before installation is to soak the straps in water, which can be lukewarm (for two hours) or hot (30 minutes). This helps in increasing the elastic strength of the straps which is turn renders maximum tension to them for better installation.

tile, leveling, lippage, stone, marble, grout, ceramic, floor, flat, surfaces, granite, spacers, slab, stone, installation

The thinset and mortar having consistency similar to that of a thinner also facilitate better results. At the time of insertion of caps and straps, these should not be placed at the corners of the tiles. This precaution is necessary to ensure proper installation as well as to avoid breaking the corners of the tiles.

These simple measures, complemented with adherence to the instructions to use the Tuscan Leveling System, help homeowners achieve a perfectly flat flooring surface that is aesthetically appealing.

Click Here to View Action Video

Copyright © 2010 FlooringSupplyShop.com

flooringsupply | Flooring Supply Shop Blog - Part 17