Hands-on floor preparation

Dave Bigham, director of national accounts at floor preparation specialist, National Flooring Equipment, busts the common
misconceptions that contractors have when preparing a floor for renovation.

Rental companies and end-users often have several misconceptions about the floor preparation process. Sometimes, these
misconceptions lead to the incorrect machine or tool being used on the job. When carried out by an industry expert, correct equipment training can solve these problems.

One size does not fit all

A common misconception when renting equipment is that, because a machine is so versatile, contractors can use it on several different jobs. While it is true that floor preparation machines are built to carry out
a range of tasks, different machines often better suited to different conditions. By surveying the floor before the job, contractors can understand if there are parts of the room that require smaller or
larger machines. For example, a ride-on stripper cannot operate correctly in tight corners just as a handheld grinder would be inappropriate in a large, open space. By making these assessments, contractors can choose the model and generate more accurate production rate. When choosing their machine, contractors should also consider the material of the flooring, size of the job and what the customer expects.

The right tools

When renting out a surface preparation machine, contractors might believe that the machine is ready to use without any alterations. However, choosing the correct tooling, adjusting handle height, blade
position and angle are as important as selecting the right machine.
There are a variety of attachments that can adapt a machine for different removal applications such as diamond tooling, sandpaper pads or polishing pads. Contractors should choose their tooling in a
similar way to they would select a machine, ensuring tools are correct for the size of the room and the original material on the floor.

Customer expectations

The final finish of the floor may be the most important aspect of the job rom the customer’s perspective. However, a contractor who is open with their customers throughout the work and adapts to their expectations will find that the job is more successful.

A customer’s expectations should be from the first survey. This includes understanding how the customer expects the final product to look. If the customer wants the space to be used as soon as the job is finished, contractors should consider renting equipment that removes dust and contaminants, such as National Flooring Equipment’s range of dust collectors.

Getting help

Understanding the different flooring profiles that result from different types of surface preparation helps contractors choose the correct machine and also gives them the knowledge to make the correct decision in the future. However, if contractors are still struggling, they can approach their machine manufacturer for advice. National Flooring Equipment offers training on a global scale, providing customers access to a bank of online tutorials, as well as having representatives across the globe that can carry out dedicated training for its customers. Access to
this service means that there is always someone to give advice on every aspect of surface preparation. This service also supports distributors and end-users both before and after equipment training.

National Flooring Equipment shares its expertise with rental companies and contractors through regular training. The training consists of a two-day intensive course made up of hands-on experience with all types of equipment, advice on how to set up the machines and how to adapt equipment for each job with tooling. Rental companies need this training as much as contractors, so that their advice on
what equipment to use is based on reliable information.
National Flooring Equipment continues with its dedicated customer service after the initial sale to reinforce the importance of training, allowing contractors and rental companies to resolve misconceptions when approaching an unfamiliar floor preparation job.

For further information, please visit http://nationalequipment.com/