Jul 07, 2009

H&C debuts new stains

The latest from H&C Concrete Coatings, Semi-Transparent Decorative Stains provide an alternative to reactive acid stains. The stains allow contractors to achieve a layered, faux or single color look in significantly less time and without any acids or harmful chemicals.

Intended for commercial applications such as retail stores, malls and other business settings, it also provides a unique residential look for patios, walkways, pool decks, driveways, and garage and basement floors. In addition to being an environmentally friendly product to apply, it is UV resistant, can be applied indoors and out, requires no neutralization and provides easy cleanup. The stains are available in 28 colors, and these colors can be built up without the worry of spending all the alkalinity that is a common issue with traditional acid stains. Because these new semitransparent stains create no chemical reaction, there is no extended time waiting for color to reach full development.

Also, these waterborne or solvent-based sealers can be applied as topcoats.

www.hcconcrete.com

Apr 02, 2009

Shotblast equipment manufacturer introduces new specification and training business

Blastrac, NA launched a new business, Diamatic Management Services (DMS), in early March 2009. This new arm will coordinate and handle management, specification writing, and training for large surface preparation and polishing projects.

Through its Ultra-Flor System, DMS will approve or certify contractors by way of hands-on training, thorough instruction and testing on the proper equipment, procedures and techniques for achieving specified grinding and polishing requirements.

The system is intended to connect contractors, equipment, and owners within a network that provides unparalleled quality and repeatability. The extensive Ultra-Flor program is designed to ensure the best results for architects and owners and set standards for consistent quality in the grinding and polishing of concrete floors for high-traffic areas.

The Ultra-Flor System will also answer the call from medium to large chain stores in multiple geographic markets to certify and standardize their polishing processes with high quality. Diamatic Management Services will qualify and approve procedures, write specifications, certify contractors and operators, and assist in the supply of proper equipment and consumables for job-specific operations.

For architects and owners looking for flooring upgrades and concrete polishing assistance, DMS will be a source for certified concrete grinding and polishing contractors. This consortium will be critically important when those properties rely on polished concrete for aesthetics, durability, maintainability, and cost-effectiveness.

www.blastrac.com

Mar 31, 2009

Cook brothers team up for training

Michael Cook of Concrete Approaches Inc. and Tommy Cook of Absolute ConcreteWorks LLC have announced a joint venture in training. “Absolute Approach To GFRC” will be the first of several training courses offered by the duo. It will be held at Absolute ConcreteWorks’ headquarters in Poulsbo, Wash., on May 18-21, 2009.

Drawing on more than 17 years combined experience in the precast field, the Cook brothers will cover the science of GFRC and the art that makes it one of a kind. Mike Cook will present knowledge of mix designs, how they work and which is best for you. Tommy Cook will bring his award-winning design capabilities and explain tricks, process and methods. The course will also cover terrazzo, vertical terrazzo and hand-sculpting of GFRC. A continental breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and course literature are included.

(360) 297-5055
www.acwusa.com

Mar 31, 2009

Buddy Rhodes launches GFRC line

Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products' newest products are designed to adapt glass-fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) technology to concrete countertops.

This new line merges the honesty of the traditional Buddy Rhodes Mix with the reinforcement and weight savings benefits of GFRC. All three finishes that Buddy Rhodes mix is known for (pressed, hard-troweled, and cast) are still easily achievable with this new system. In addition, GFRC methods allow a fine concrete spray to be used for the face coat, creating a machine-smooth finish without the need for vibration. The new offerings include Alkali Resistant Glass fibers, Polymer Curing Compound, Plasticizer/Liquid Water Reducer and an AR Coated Glass Fiber Scrim.

Used primarily as an advanced alternative to expanded wire mesh, ladur wire or other concrete reinforcing materials, these products and methods increase strength and crack resistance for larger and lighter pieces at lesser thicknesses. The glass fibers have an alkali-resistant coating , making them tougher and more complementary within the concrete/polymer matrix. GFRC is especially suited for use with Buddy Rhodes Concrete because the mix is drier and clay-like so the fibers can be kept away from the surface where they don’t interfere with the final aesthetic.

The Buddy Rhodes GFRC system utilizes unique products that can be used separately or together and can be combined with our existing mix and colors. Buddy Rhodes GFRC products can also be used with many other concrete mixes to good effect.

Training for Buddy Rhodes GFRC will be conducted exclusively by Gore Design Co. LLC. Training will be held in their Tempe, Ariz., studio as well as at the Buddy Rhodes studio in San Francisco. Class dates and details are posted on the Buddy Rhodes Web site.

www.buddyrhodes.com

Mar 16, 2009

QC Construction Products closes its doors

A statement by Chris Sullivan, the former national sales manager of QC Construction Products
On Feb. 25, 2009, QC Construction Products closed its doors, ceasing manufacturing and sales operations in the United States after 17 years.

QC is the latest victim of a poor national economy that has been especially hard on the construction industry. QC was founded in the early 1990s as a regional manufacturing and sales organization servicing the needs of the rapidly growing decorative concrete industry in the western U.S. Over the next 15 years, QC grew into one of the top decorative names in the industry, with multiple manufacturing plants. It sold products in all 50 states, as well as Canada and Mexico.

While the elimination of QC from the decorative market provides opportunity and windfall for the remaining decorative manufacturers, no one really wins in this type of situation. Besides the immediate and sudden unemployment for all employees, QC customers are now left to deal with inventory issues, as well as finding new lines to fill the void. To those manufacturers replacing QC, don't take the ease by which you have come by this business for granted. The effects of the closure will be felt in all facets of the industry and will last for some time.

On behalf of all the employees at QC, we want to thank all of our customers for their business and support for the last 17 years. It goes without saying that this is not the way anyone wanted things to end. QC was home to a dedicated and motivated group of men and women who helped enhance and grow the decorative concrete industry these last few years. We sincerely hope that the events of February 25 do not cause any long-lasting effects on your business, and we apologize for any inconvenience this event may have caused.

On a personal note, I want to thank all the thousands of people I have been fortunate enough to meet and work with over the last nine years. I plan on continuing my career in the decorative industry, and look forward to working with you all in the near future. While QC may quickly become a memory, the lessons learned, relationships forged, and friendships made will last a lifetime.

Chris Sullivan  is settling into his new position as vice president of sales and marketing for Chemsystems Inc. He also writes the "Trowel & Error" column for Concrete Decor magazine. He can be reached at cpsully224@msn.com.
 

Jan 09, 2009

Metal Forms Corp. purchases Sterling Handling Equipment

Metal Forms Corp., a leading manufacturer in the concrete construction industry since 1909, has announced its purchase of Sterling Handling Equipment Inc. Both companies have more than a century of manufacturing history in Milwaukee.
Established in 1904, Sterling Handling Equipment makes material handling equipment including wheelbarrows, mortar tubs and concrete carts. “Sterling has an excellent reputation in the industry with durable and reliable products,” says Metal Forms president Tom Miller. “This equipment compliments our existing product line and will serve as the cornerstone of MFC’s new Handling Division.”
MFC plans to move Sterling’s production to its manufacturing facilities in Milwaukee, Wis.
www.metalforms.com

Jan 06, 2009

BASF introduces integral liquid color admixtures

The Admixture Systems business of BASF Construction Chemicals has introduced Rheocolor L brand of liquid coloring admixtures for decorative concrete.
The patented formula is available in 50 new colors, ranging from warm reds and golds to cool grays and browns. Rheocolor L can create a unique look and feel for ready-mixed or precast concrete applications such as driveways, pool decks, patios and architectural décor. The four base colors — light red, medium red, yellow and black — can be used to make a wide range of custom colors.  
Added during the batching process, Rheocolor L liquid coloring admixtures are integral. They show rich coloration from any angle, and providing color uniformity, fade resistance and long-lasting vibrancy. Their unique chemistry allows for excellent batch-to-batch color consistency, color accuracy and quick dispersion into concrete.
In addition, BASF’s advanced state-of-the-art CAM (Color Admixture Measuring) Colormaster System allows for easy, accurate, and economical dispensing of Rheocolor L liquid coloring admixtures.
www.masterbuilders.com

Nov 07, 2008

Portland Cement Association Revises Cement Forecast Downward

The weak economy and tight credit conditions, coupled with severe job losses and the resulting decline in state government revenues, will translate into significant weakness for the construction industry through 2010, leading the Portland Cement Association to again adjust its cement consumption forecast.

The latest PCA forecast of cement, concrete, and construction predicts a 12.8 percent decline in cement consumption in 2008, followed by 11.9 percent and 2.1 percent declines in 2009 and 2010, respectively.

The PCA report cites the continued drop in residential starts and the erosion of the strong fundamentals supporting nonresidential construction as major factors leading to reduced cement consumption. The weak economy also has affected the public construction sector.

“Several economic factors are negatively influencing the construction industry,” Edward Sullivan, PCA chief economist said. “High energy prices, the sub-prime crisis, the melt-down of our financial markets, inflation, job losses and tight lending standards are combining to create weak economic conditions and the emergence of huge state deficits. Public construction accounts for nearly half of all the total cement consumption in the U.S., and states in poor fiscal condition will need to cut back on this spending.”

PCA expects cement consumption in residential to decline 31.7 percent in 2008 and 16.9 percent in 2009, but a rebound of the market in the second half of 2010 will lead to a 12.1 percent increase in consumption in that year. Consumption in the nonresidential sector is expected to decline 22.2 percent in 2009 and the public sector will see 6.6 percent declines in 2009 and 2010.

“The nonresidential construction market typically takes 18 months from the onset of better economic conditions to rebound,” Sullivan said. “With weak consumer spending, this sector will be especially hit hard in retail construction.”

PCA predicts a recovery to begin in 2011 with a 10.3 percent increase compared to 2010 consumption and a return to near-record consumption levels by 2013.
 

Oct 14, 2008

Scofield introduces liquid dye concentrate

New Scofield Formula One Liquid Dye Concentrate from L.M. Scofield Co. is a penetrating, translucent liquid dye concentrate designed for use in the production of colored, ground and polished interior architectural concrete.
Developed as a more fast-track alternative to existing conventional dyes on the market, Scofield Formula One Liquid Dye Concentrate includes both the dye and the extender solvent. When added to acetone at the jobsite, it is ready to use after mixing thoroughly — about two minutes. After dilution, Scofield Formula One Liquid Dye Concentrate is used in conjunction with Scofield Formula One Lithium Densifier and Scofield Formula One Finish Coat.
Scofield Formula One Liquid Dye Concentrate is available in 20 standard colors.
www.scofield.com

Sep 09, 2008

PCA Downgrades 2008 Cement Consumption Forecast

An increasing unemployment rate, higher inflation, and low consumer sentiment will combine to have lingering negative effects on the U.S. economy and, hence, on cement consumption and the construction industry.

The latest Portland Cement Association (PCA) forecast of cement, concrete, and construction predicts a 12 percent decline in cement consumption in 2008, followed by another 6 percent drop in 2009.

The combination of high home inventories, weak economy-wide demand conditions, and poor state budget conditions is expected to hit all sectors of construction—residential, non-residential, and public.

PCA predicts a recovery to begin in 2010, but more modest than previously forecasted.  Total cement consumption in 2010 is expected to increase 2.7 percent from 2009 levels.

Aug 25, 2008

Polishing specification released by technical institute

The Concrete Polishing and Processing Technical Institute has released a technical concrete polishing specification.

The specification takes into consideration all of the controllable variables when processing concrete to a polished finish.  It is written in a format that allows any manufacturer or specifier to easily specify equipment and supplies while maintaining a solid foundation for installation.

www.polishinginstitute.org

Jul 31, 2008

Innovatech, Eagle join forces

Innovatech Products and Equipment Co., a leading manufacturer of surface preparation equipment, and Eagle Solutions, a manufacturer of propane-powered floor maintenance and polishing equipment, have announced a strategic alliance based on a shared vision for complete equipment systems and national service. 
By combining Innovatech’s world-class surface prep and concrete grinding equipment with Eagle’s propane-powered machines and national service network, the alliance aims to accelerate the availability of a truly complete product offering with fast delivery and next-day service.  This strategic alliance will help reduce total cost of ownership and better protect current and future investments. It will also accelerate the creation of new, innovative equipment.
Innovatech’s alliance with Eagle Solutions will bring customers more surface
preparation solutions, wider distribution and better service, stated an Eagle Solutions press release. “By engaging the companies at the technology, marketing and business levels, the alliance will allow both companies to drive new growth opportunities and has the potential to ultimately transform the concrete-polishing market by reducing costs and improving productivity for customers.”
Based in Everett, Wash., Innovatech has been bringing products to the surface preparation industry for more than 15 years, including a full line of electric planetary grinders and a full line of ride-on floor scrapers. Eagle Solutions, located in Adairsville, Ga., said in the release that it eagerly looks forward to developing a strong alliance with Innovatech and building a strong international network of distribution, training and service.
 

Jun 18, 2008

Professional Trade Publications copyrights the "Concrete Decor" name

Professional Trade Publications Inc. has trademarked the name of its flagship magazine, Concrete Decor.

A Certificate of Registration recognizing  “Concrete Decor” as a federally protected trademark was issued to PTP by the United States Patent and Trademark Office on June 3, 2008. Future issues of Concrete Decor magazine, as well as other Concrete Decor publications, will display the circle “R” notation that signifies federal registration.
 

Jun 05, 2008

Solomon Colors acquires Brickform

Solomon Colors Inc., a pioneer in concrete coloring solutions, has announced the acquisition of Brickform, a leader in architectural and decorative concrete, to expand its concrete product lines and distribution channels.
Under a unified umbrella, Solomon Colors now expands its product lines, as well as its distribution channels, to include concrete stains, dry shake color hardeners, antique colored releases, stamp tools, an extensive line of concrete sealers, and other innovative tools for architects and contractors.
As an employee-owned and family-owned company, Solomon Colors has provided service and quality to its customers for over eight decades. Brickform holds similar core values as a family-owned company.
“We believe this acquisition will provide great benefits to Solomon Colors’ current customers while adding diversity of products and stability to Brickform’s customers,” stated Rich Solomon, president of Solomon Colors Inc., in a news release.
Brickform president Robert Freis noted in the release: “The owners and employees of Solomon Colors Inc. and their new employees from Brickform will make every effort to provide customers with the high quality products and service they have come to expect and trust. A strong working relationship is the key to success for all of us.”
www.solomoncolors.com
www.brickform.com

Jun 03, 2008

Lafarge acquires southeastern Louisiana sand and gravel assets

Lafarge announced that it has completed the purchase of the southeastern Louisiana sand and gravel assets of Texas Industries Inc. The acquisition consists of four sand and gravel pits, allowing Lafarge to enter the southeastern Louisiana aggregates market.
This acquisition will expand Lafarge's presence in southeastern Louisiana and position the company to better serve customers by expanding its product offering. The operations will be integrated into Lafarge’s Eastern U.S. Aggregates and Concrete region.
"The acquisition and integration of these TXI operations is an exciting opportunity for Lafarge's aggregates and concrete division," said Ken MacLean, president of Lafarge Aggregates and Concrete for the eastern United States region. "We look forward to utilizing these assets to build upon the foundation of high quality products and services our customers have come to expect."
Lafarge is the world leader in building materials, with top-ranking positions in all of its businesses: Cement, Aggregates & Concrete and Gypsum. With 90,000 employees in 76 countries, Lafarge posted sales of 17.6 billion Euros and net income of 1.9 billion Euros in 2007. Lafarge North America Inc., a Lafarge Group company, is the largest diversified supplier of construction materials in the United States and Canada. Its materials are used for residential, commercial, institutional and public works construction.
www.lafarge-na.com

Jun 02, 2008

Grace agrees to market slump measurement system

Grace Construction Products and RS Solutions LLC, an independent, privately owned technology company, announced that they have entered into an agreement where Grace will be the exclusive sales and marketing agent for the Ready Slump System to ready-mix concrete producers worldwide.
The Ready Slump System is a truck-mounted process control system that can accurately measure, adjust and document concrete slump from the time a truck is loaded until it is poured. This patented system offers producers an accurate, reliable system to control material cost, product quality and provide consistency from one truckload to another.
www.readyslump.com
www.graceconstruction.com

Apr 28, 2008

Jamaican deal expands Lafarge's North American presence

Lafarge has signed an agreement with Jamaica Pre-Mix Ltd. to create a new joint venture based in Kingston, Jamaica. 
The joint venture, to be named Jamaica Aggregates Limited, will be owned and operated by Lafarge and by Jamaica Pre-Mix. Under the terms of the agreement, Jamaica Pre-Mix will contribute its aggregate operations to the venture and Lafarge will make a contribution towards development and operations. The joint venture will operate four quarries and employ 60 to 70 staff members who currently work at Jamaica Pre-Mix.
This strategic alliance is part of Lafarge's latest efforts in North America to maintain and expand its infrastructure to offer increased value and service to meet growing customer needs.
www.lafarge-na.com

Apr 22, 2008

Multiquip president announces retirement

Multiquip Inc. president Roger Euliss today announced his intentions to retire from Multiquip at the end of 2008. 

“After almost 28 years, it is time for others to take the helm," said Euliss in a meeting today with the MQ management team (as quoted in a Multiquip news release). “We have an excellent team in place, so the continued growth and success of the company are assured. I feel very proud and confident of the company and the team that I have been a part of for so many years.  It is now time for me to spend more time at my North Carolina home and with my wife and family, all who are located in the eastern half of the country.” The new MQ organization will be headed by Mike Howlett, who will become president of the MQ General Construction Equipment Group. He will report to Tom Yasuda, chairman and chief executive officer. The balance of the core management organization will remain largely unchanged. 
 

Apr 15, 2008

W.R. Grace acquires green concrete admixture company

W.R. Grace Co. has announced the completion of a strategic investment in CERATECH Inc., a Maryland-based firm that has developed green, sustainable concrete admixture technologies for formulating high-strength, fast-setting concrete primarily using fly ash, a waste stream product from coal-fired power plants.
CERATECH technology enables the production of environmentally friendly, high performance concrete. Under terms of the investment, Grace also has exclusive rights to market CERATECH products and technology in the manufactured concrete market.
Grace currently manufactures a wide range of products for commercial and residential construction markets, including concrete admixtures and cement additives.
CERATECH's green, sustainable concrete admixture technology was first commercialized in 2001 in an effort to utilize waste-stream fly ash to make high-performance concrete repair materials.
Grace is a leading global supplier of catalysts and other products to petroleum refiners; catalysts for the manufacture of plastics; silica-based engineered and specialty materials for a wide-range of industrial applications; specialty chemicals, additives and building materials for commercial and residential construction; and sealants and coatings for food and beverage packaging. With annual sales of more than $3.1 billion, Grace has about 6,500 employees and operations in over 40 countries.
CERATECH, Inc. is a worldwide manufacturer and supplier of engineered, high performance cements for construction, transportation and manufactured concrete industries. It was founded in 2001.
www.grace.com

Apr 09, 2008

RPM International acquires UK-Based Flowcrete Group, expands global resin flooring presence

RPM International Inc. has announced its acquisition of Flowcrete Group, a leading global manufacturer and marketer of resin flooring systems for industrial and commercial applications.
Flowcrete, established in 1982 and headquartered near Manchester, England, has sales of about $85 million. Terms were not disclosed.
Flowcrete’s wide range of decorative and high-performance flooring systems are sold to applicators, contractors and end users under the Flowcrete, Flowfresh, Isocrete, Deckshield and Mondeco brands. These flooring systems are predominately used in manufacturing plants, stadiums, schools, hospitals, parking decks and other industrial or commercial environments that require lasting, decorative seamless systems.
Flowcrete has expanded aggressively in international markets, especially Europe and Asia, and represents an opportunity for further penetration into the growing global resin and seamless floor market. Flowcrete will remain a stand-alone business under its current management team led by managing director, Mark Greaves, who will report to RPM’s group operating president, Dave Reif.
RPM International Inc., a holding company, owns subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings and sealants serving both industrial and consumer markets. RPM’s industrial products include roofing systems, sealants, corrosion control coatings, flooring coatings and specialty chemicals. Industrial brands include Stonhard, Tremco, illbruck, Carboline, Day-Glo, Euco, and Dryvit. Consumer brands include Zinsser, Rust-Oleum, DAP, Varathane and Testors.
www.rpminc.com

Mar 21, 2008

Increte Systems sold to conglomerate

RPM International Inc. has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, The Euclid Chemical Co. of Cleveland, Ohio, has acquired Increte Systems of Odessa, Fla.
With sales of approximately $15 million, Increte is the nation's leading manufacturer of decorative concrete systems that economically recreate the look of natural stone, wood, tile, brick and pavers using concrete. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
RPM's president and chief executive officer, Frank C. Sullivan, stated in a news release: “We are very excited to have acquired Increte's comprehensive decorative product line, along with its all-inclusive manufacturing processes and training capabilities. Increte has been exceedingly successful in establishing a leadership position in the decorative concrete industry. This acquisition provides the springboard to propel Euclid Chemical forward in this growing market segment.”
The existing Increte management team will remain in place, and the company will operate as a stand-alone business unit of Euclid Chemical, reporting to Moorman Scott, Euclid Chemical's executive vice president.
RPM International Inc., a holding company, owns subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings and sealants.
(330) 273-5090
www.rpminc.com

Mar 04, 2008

Bosch introduces new dust-collection products for grinders

Three new families of grinder attachments from Bosch Power Tools and Accessories aim to help angle-grinder users control silica dust.
Compatible with all Bosch One Touch Guard System 4-1/2-inch to 7-inch angle grinders, the new attachments install tool-free when used in both cutoff and surfacing applications.
Bosch’s SG-Series attachments are designed for concrete surfacing applications where aggressive dust removal is a must. Optimized for use with Bosch’s AirSweep vacuum system, the SG-Series attachments keep concrete dust out of the air and off of the work surface. A removable nose-piece enables up-to-wall surfacing, while a replaceable brush ring maximizes the attachment’s lifespan in grueling environments. The SG-Series attachments are ideal for concrete restoration work and other surfacing applications.
For efficient dust removal and collection in masonry cutting applications, Bosch’s DC-Series attachments keep work sites dust-free without sacrificing performance. Featuring a large, stable footplate and fast single-screw depth adjustment, the DC-Series attachments allow for a full depth of cut and outstanding line-of-sight in precision concrete cutting applications. Like the SG-Series attachments, the DC-Series attachments are also optimized for use with Bosch’s AirSweep system.
Both the SG-Series and DC-Series attachments are designed in accordance with anticipated OSHA standards regarding the reduction of crystalline silica.
Bosch’s CG-Series Cutoff guards are ideal for applications where safety is the primary concern, such as in exterior concrete cutting, grinding and metal cutoff applications. With a unique wrap-around profile designed to protect users from flying debris, the CG-Series guards also boast outstanding visibility and ease of use.
www.boschtools.com

Feb 26, 2008

Sika acquires Valspar polymer flooring business

Sika AG has announced that its United States subsidiary, Sika Corp., has acquired the commercial and industrial polymer flooring business of The Valspar Corp.
Already a market leader in construction chemicals, including adhesives and sealants, concrete admixtures, and repair and strengthening products, Sika expects that this acquisition will further strengthen its North American position in the polymer flooring market. The parties have agreed not to disclose the sale price.
The Valspar polymer flooring business, with its portfolio of epoxy and polyurethane technology products, fits Sika’s focused growth strategy for North America.
The acquisition also creates for Sika one of the most comprehensive range of epoxy, polyurethane, and other key polymer flooring products and technologies in the industry.
www.sikacorp.com
www.sikaconstruction.com