Bryant Bushman Sr. to Retire after nearly 40 years of Industry Success
ARDEX Americas would like to wish Bryant Buschman Sr. a very happy retirement after nearly 40 years of service to the company! Over the years, Bryant has held many roles within the company, but his dedication to serving our customers has remained the same throughout. Bryant has had a significant impact on the entire ARDEX Americas organization, our Business Partners, and our Colleagues. Bryant’s legacy will be lasting! We are proud to have been part of your exceptional career, and wish you all the best as you embark on this new journey!
Photographed Left to Right: Bryant Buschman Sr., Regional Sales Manager, Jesse David, President
2022 Recipient of the Bruce Newbrough Memorial CIM Scholarship
FCICA and ARDEX Americas Announce 2022 Recipient of the Bruce Newbrough Memorial CIM Scholarship
Aliquippa, PA, August 10 2022 – The FCICA, the Flooring Contractors Association, and ARDEX Americas, are pleased to announce the Bruce Newbrough Memorial Certified Installation Manager Program (CIM) Scholarship was awarded to Deidre Eues, of La Mesa Carpet & Linoleum in La Mesa, CA.
Deidre Eues, Recipient Bruce Newbrough Memorial CIM Scholarship
Ms. Eues is currently working as a General Manager overseeing both residential and commercial sales and installations. She sees the CIM Program as “a great opportunity for formalized training and a way to increase opportunities for growth and success” in the commercial flooring industry. “A CIM certificate would give me more opportunities as a female who loves construction.” In addition to the CIM Program, she is also working towards her C15 Flooring License. Ms. Eues expressed her gratitude for the scholarship and is looking forward to getting started.
The Scholarship was established to provide educational opportunities to floor covering Installation Managers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to and excellence in proper substrate preparation and installation of floor covering. Named after Bruce Newbrough, former ARDEX Director of Technical Services and later working in Applications Development, tirelessly utilized every opportunity to further his vision and passion for industry education and training on proper substrate preparation, all for the purpose of achieving successful installations. It covers the cost of the full Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program including application, content and assessment fees.
About the Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program
The Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program sets the industry standard for those involved in the management of commercial flooring projects. The Program provides video training modules led by experts who speak from years of floor covering experience. Paired with assessments to confirm the educational training gained, the modules enhance the qualified flooring professional’s core skill set, experience and knowledge base necessary to successfully manage commercial flooring projects. Individuals who reach this level of expertise will be easily distinguished by their achievement of the Certified Installation Manager (CIM) designation. For more information about the CIM Program, go to www.fcica.com/cim-program.
About FCICA
1982 and headquartered in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, is the resource for premier commercial flooring contractors. FCICA promotes the advancement and continuous development of Certified Installation Managers (CIM); provides technical education, business support and industry expert networking and delivers 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 Burma and Canada. For more information about FCICA visit our website www.fcica.com or call (630) 672-3702.
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.
FCNews Award of Excellence 2022
Floor Covering News Award of Excellence 2022
Aliquippa (PA), July 13, 2022 –
This past month, FCNews and Informa Exhibitions held a special ceremony for the Award of Excellence 2022, handing out two-dozen awards total throughout the industry.
The Award of Excellence program has become the industry benchmark of supplier excellence since they are voted on by customers, and ARDEX is proud to have received the award in the “Installation” category!
Among the other 21 winners in the Award of Excellence 2022 were first-timers along with perennial champions. ARDEX would like to congratulate all winners for their excellent work and the well-deserved award!
Pictured is John Felker, ARDEX Business Manager, US East, Flooring, receiving the award for the “Installation” category.
About ARDEX:
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.
ARDEX is Recognized at 2022 Starnet Design Awards
ARDEX is Recognized at 2022 Starnet Design Awards
Aliquippa (PA) / Colorado Springs (CO), May 19, 2022 – ARDEX Americas was grateful to be part of the Starnet Commercial Flooring Annual Meeting in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to celebrate the commercial flooring partnership’s 30th anniversary this past week.
ARDEX has been a vendor partner with Starnet from almost the beginning and is honored to be associated with this inspiring group of commercial flooring professionals. Starnet is a network of independent flooring contractors and manufacturers aimed at fostering industry partnerships and supporting the highest standards for flooring projects.
At the event, which was held in-person for the first time since the start of the pandemic, ARDEX was proud to be recognized with the Dream Team Awards and especially as a vendor partner in this year’s Design Awards. Since 1998, the Starnet Design Awards have recognized dynamic relationships between Starnet Members and the A&D community by spotlighting the innovative use of flooring in commercial design in categories such as hospitality, health care, corporate, people’s choice, and more.
“The entire company shares in congratulating the amazing group of award winners and looks forward to participating in many of the Gold Award celebrations with the Starnet Members and their local teams” reported Bob Dalton, ARDEX’s Manager of Strategic Partnerships.
To learn more about Starnet Commercial Flooring and their annual Design Awards, please visit their website: www.starnetflooring.com
In attendance from left to right:
Bob Dalton,
ARDEX Manager of Strategic Partnerships Sherri Wildman,
ARDEX District Architectural Manager Al Rocheleau,
Regional Sales Manager ARDEX Canada Michael Frey,
ARDEX Business Manager – Western Division John Felker,
ARDEX Business Manager – Eastern Division
About ARDEX:
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.
FCEF Partners with ARDEX to Provide Training Solutions
FCEF Partners with ARDEX to Provide Training Solutions
Aliquippa (PA) / Dalton (GA), May 4, 2022 – The Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) welcomes the partnership of ARDEX, the leading solution and service provider of innovative building systems. ARDEX is showing its support for the industry and stepping up to support training initiatives spearheaded by FCEF.
FCEF meets with ARDEX to plan for a brighter future. (L to R) Seth Pevarnik, Director of Technical Services, ARDEX, Jim Aaron, Executive Director, FCEF; Kay Whitener, Director of Operations, FCEF, Pat Cunningham, Technical Services Supervisor, ARDEX
Most recently, ARDEX provided materials and trainers to assist with the technical college pilot program at Georgia Northwestern Technical College. They have since committed to providing similar support to all FCEF’s programs.
“ARDEX has really stepped up to provide the supplies and resources we need to make our technical college program a success,” shared Jim Aaron, Executive Director of FCEF. “Beyond the monetary value of their support, ARDEX has been a true partner, sharing ideas and insight as well.”
FCEF has recently made significant headway with the development of technical school programs, receiving accreditation for their basic flooring installation program. This milestone will allow them to more easily bring the program to other technical colleges. ARDEX is committed to helping them make that happen.
“We’re excited to see an organization dedicated to tackling the shortage of installers we’ve been dealing with for many years,” shared Seth Pevarnik, Director of Technical Services at ARDEX. “We are proud to be able to support FCEF with the supplies and training resources they need to get programs up and running.”
ARDEX is a family-owned company and takes pride in its quality products as well as its commitment to building a better future by reducing its carbon footprint and maximizing sustainability. “Our support of FCEF is another way that we’re committed to the sustainability of our industry,” added Pevarnik.
While FCEF has made some big strides in reducing the shortage of installers, there is still a long way to go to make up for a persistent shortage. “We need all the support we can get. After financial support, tools and materials are our biggest need,” shared Kaye Whitener, Director of Operations for FCEF. “We need to make sure trainees can learn with quality tools and products. We have a long list of supplies and tools needed for each program and are so thankful that ARDEX has taken many supplies off the purchase list.”
Learn more about The Floor Covering Education Foundation and the work they do for the industry by visiting their website: www.fcef.org.
About ARDEX:
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.
Launch of Exterior Tile and Stone Systems
ARDEX Americas Launches Time-Tested Exterior Tile and Stone Systems
Aliquippa, PA, March 15, 2022 – Today, ARDEX announced the launch of Exterior Tile and Stone Systems, featuring four unique and time-tested passive capillary drainage solutions. Architects, landscape designers, contractors and installation professionals can now confidently specify tile and stone in outdoor spaces without fear of the inherent risks commonly associated with installations outdoors.
Beautiful aesthetics combined with the long-term durability of tile and stone has led to enhanced popularity for outdoor installations. Especially in today’s health conscience environment, outdoor spaces are now even more desirable in residential and commercial venues. The caveat is that exterior installations are subject to harsh weather and difficult environments. Issues such as efflorescence, staining, discoloring and disbonding are commonplace in outdoor installations. These problems are primarily caused by sedentary and evaporating water and moisture vapor.
ARDEX Exterior Tile & Stone Systems provide four system options utilizing passive capillary drainage systems to protect and provide long-lasting durability for outdoor tile and stone installations. Those solutions efficiently manage water, allowing the water to move freely through the system and then move the water away from the installation.
The available solutions include
ARDEX Watec® Drainage Systems: suited for most types of tile and stone and ideal for low construction heights.
ARDEX ProDrain® Drainage Systems: capillary passive water management systems for most types of tile and stone that require higher construction heights of 3 1/2” and more.
ARDEX TerraMaxx® TSL Pedestal Systems: Raised flooring support pedestal systems offering easy height and slope adjustments, no tools necessary.
ARDEX TerraMaxx® Cement Pedestal Drainage Systems: Cement mortar pedestal system for 3/4” (2cm) porcelain tile and natural stone pavers.
About ARDEX: 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.
Introducing ARDEX TLT Shower Systems
ARDEX Americas Introduces New Product Line TLTTM Shower Systems
Aliquippa, PA, January 10, 2022 – After the acquisition of TILITE in 2021, ARDEX Americas has worked to integrate the new shower products into the overall lineup and is now excited to launch ARDEX TLTTM Shower Systems!
ARDEX TLT Shower Systems provide a solution to what can be a challenging and complicated process. Shower installations often require multiple components and suppliers, resulting in a time-consuming and confusing process. The new rigid-foam, single-source system will make your next shower installation a breeze!
TLT offers pre-waterproofed system components, a patented, integrated drain assembly and an all-in-one system solution including the shower system, ARDEX Tile & Stone installation products, and a SystemOneTM warranty of up to 25 years!
“The TLT Shower Systems are an exciting enhancement to the ARDEX product lineup,” says Kim Snyder, Product Category Manager of Tile & Stone Installation Systems for ARDEX Americas. “ARDEX has always been focused on providing full system solutions, and the new shower system helps us further this path within the tiling segment by adding more comprehensive options.”
Supporting the launch is a fully integrated marketing campaign and a new character called Trevor; a fictional tile setter with vast knowledge of TLT Shower Systems. He will assist customers in navigating the new components and its advantages in a light-hearted way. The hashtag #TipswithTrevor will accompany the TLT campaign throughout social media.
About ARDEX: 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.
TTMAC recognizes ARDEX
TTMAC recognizes ARDEX with “Manufactured Tile and Slabs” and “Project of the Year” awards at their annual convention
This past month, ARDEX Americas was awarded the “Manufactured Tile and Slabs” and “Project of the Year” at TTMAC’s annual convention in Whistler, BC, Canada. In attendance and accepting the award were Sherri Wildman, District Architectural Manager and Al Rocheleau, Regional Sales Manager Eastern Canada.
The Project of the Year is chosen from all winning projects in each of the categories, and is the highest award given by TTMAC. The winning project, which involved ARDEX installation products was completed and submitted by LFT Professionals.
The project itself was located in the Edgewood community in Calgary, and consisted of tile installations in several rooms throughout the house as well as an expansive exterior clad entirely with thin porcelain tile. While the interior work was relatively easy to achieve, the exterior work would present a challenge to the team involved. Calgary’s unpredictable weather, the size of the porcelain slabs and securing enough trained and reliable manpower were going to be the biggest considerations on this project.
After the extensive prep work was complete, it was time to install the Fondavalle Calcatta Gold 6.5mm 63”x126” gauged porcelain panels. For this project, all of the panels were fabricated, and book-matched on-site and the installation products sourced from ARDEX.
Despite the challenges on this project, it was completed to the highest standards possible. Meeting the approval of the design team, the homeowner and the most critical eye of them all, LFT Professionals.
About TTMAC
The Terrazzo, Tile and Marble Association of Canada has represented the terrazzo, tile and stone industry for over 70 years. The TTMAC operates programs and services that enhance the effectiveness of member companies in providing quality work in terrazzo, tile and natural stone installations. The TTMAC awards for terrazzo, tile and natural stone installations will recognize the trade contractor, materials supplier, architect, designer, specifier and builder. Publicity for awards will focus on the partnership between the professionals involved in the installation.
ARDEX and Scanalytics Announce Collaboration
ARDEX and Scanalytics Announce Collaboration in Smart Flooring for Commercial and Residential Applications
Milwaukee, WI, November 18, 2021 – Scanalytics, a leading provider of smart building technologies and ARDEX, a leader in innovative building solutions, today announced a collaboration in smart flooring that will provide solutions for both commercial and residential buildings.
Scanalytics has developed solutions that address opportunities in the commercial building industry like energy management, fall prevention, occupancy, and workplace analytics using its suite of proprietary sensors and software platform.
“With recent funding from the US Department of Energy, we have considerably advanced our underlying technology to be embeddable in almost any commercial building setting. We have, however, always thought that a natural extension into residential offerings would come with time. The ability to have your home conditioned to respond to your movements and behaviors has been a dream of many for decades. That’s where a partnership with an expert like Ardex comes into play” says Joe Scanlin, Cofounder and CEO of Scanalytics.
The Head of Innovation of ARDEX, Marco Schroeder, also regards the cooperation as tremendously beneficial for the two companies
“As we see Smart Buildings on the rise and a growing demand for intelligent services coming along with that, we strive for built-in innovations and abilities. Joining forces and competencies with Scanalytics will combine both, the data and digital world with future-oriented building solutions. Together, we will be able to bridge pitfalls by offering a complete journey arching from the planning stage, to installation and operations.”
The collaboration will focus on leveraging the existing software, data, and floor sensing technology that Scanalytics has brought to market in commercial buildings alongside the intelligent floor systems ARDEX has developed. The two technologies combined are capable of being installed under soft or hard surfaces, allowing the partnership to offer smart building solutions to both the commercial and residential markets.
About Scanalytics
Powered by a team of scientists and engineers, Scanalytics Inc. is an innovator in urban intelligence and smart building technologies that excels at transforming locations into smart environments. Scanalytics has developed sensor laden sub-flooring technology that algorithmically broadcasts behavioral data like occupancy to issue setbacks to heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) and lighting systems, which contribute significantly to improving the energy efficiency of commercial buildings. With capabilities to deploy in both small and large format, the technology can also be expanded into opportunities to measure and improve consumer behavior, security, productivity analytics, work cell optimization, fall detection / prevention, safety, and more. www.scanalyticsinc.com
About ARDEX, A Leading Solution and Service Provider of Innovative Building Systems:
The ARDEX Group is the leading solution and service provider of innovative building systems. As a family-owned business, the company has pursued a sustainable growth path for more than 70 years. ARDEX now has more than 3,900 employees and is present in over 100 countries on all continents, with a virtually comprehensive presence in one of its core markets, Europe. With more than ten major brands, ARDEX generates total sales of more than 930 million EUR worldwide. www.ardex.com
ARDEX takes up majority stake in wedi
Biggest acquisition in the company’s history: ARDEX takes up majority stake in wedi
Ardex continues to grow: the German-based construction chemicals specialist is taking up a majority shareholding in wedi GmbH, a leading manufacturer of system solutions for high-quality wet room solutions based in Emsdetten, Germany – it is the largest acquisition in the company’s history. The employees of both family-run companies have already been informed of the development. In this respect, the management made it clear that wedi will continue to operate independently. In addition, Stephan Wedi and Fabian Rechlin will remain in place as the Managing Directors of wedi. Stephan Wedi will also continue in his shareholder role.
For Mark Eslamlooy, CEO of the Ardex Group, this cooperation is a milestone in the development of the company – and his delight at the future collaboration with wedi is correspondingly great.
“The ARDEX Group is taking a major step forward with the acquisition of the market leader for watertight shower and construction systems. There could be no better way to enhance our systems competence – ARDEX and wedi are two strong brands which complement one another in an ideal manner. As family-run companies, we also share a common understanding of the importance of customer proximity, innovation and quality. All in all it is the perfect basis for a successful cooperation.”
The managing directors of wedi, Stephan Wedi and Fabian Rechlin, also regard the cooperation as tremendously beneficial for the two companies. Above all the international Ardex network and the complementary strengths in the product areas were an important factor for wedi in reaching its decision.
“ARDEX is a perfect growth accelerator for us – one only has to think of the many global markets and the joint innovation potential. It was of tremendous importance to us that we find a partner with whom we can safeguard our independence and contribute our strengths to ensure joint growth. To this, we will also implement the already planned capacity expansions together with Ardex. The matter is one very close to my heart, and from the very outset my gut feeling about Ardex was extremely positive,” says Stephan Wedi.
wedi is already very successful in Europe, and in particular in Germany and France, and it is the market leader in North America – since 2017 with its own factory in Batavia, Illinois. The objective of the cooperation with the other companies in the Ardex Group is that of developing this position. “wedi and Ardex complement one another excellently, not just in Germany, but also in other core markets such as the USA, Australia and New Zealand, France, England, Austria, Switzerland or Benelux. The innovative strength of the Ardex Group is enormous, and as a result, we expect to make considerable advances,” adds Fabian Rechlin. “Our partners in the trade have long been encouraging us to take a major step forward. We are doing so now.”
Independent family-owned companies
Furthermore, for both companies it is important that they retain their independence in full. In the future wedi will be a stand-alone company within the Ardex Group – headed by its current managing directors Stephan Wedi and Fabian Rechlin. The trading name, location, brand name and marketing strategy will not change either. The same is true of the contact persons for clients and suppliers.
Inventor of watertight shower and construction systems
wedi is the market leader for watertight shower and construction systems in Europe and North America. The success story began in 1983 with the invention of a totally watertight building board – to this day the board with the blue core is still the company’s trademark. What began as a one-man operation in his garage at home is now an international company with more than 500 employees and a further production site in the USA.
The parties have agreed not to disclose the economic terms of the cooperation. Metzler Corporate Finance exclusively supported wedi in the transaction as M&A advisor.
From left to right: Mark Eslamlooy, Stephan Wedi and Fabian Rechlin
About ARDEX: The ARDEX Group is one of the global market leaders for high-performance specialty building materials. As a family-owned business, the company has pursued a sustainable growth path for more than 70 years. ARDEX now has more than 3,900 employees and is present in over 100 countries on all continents, with a virtually comprehensive presence in one of its core markets, Europe. With more than ten major brands, ARDEX generates total sales of more than 930 million EUR worldwide.
About wedi: wedi GmbH, based in Emsdetten, is a leading manufacturer of and systems provider for directly tileable, watertight construction elements in Europe and North America. The extensive portfolio is complemented by high-quality design surfaces which provide additional design options in the bathroom. With its innovative system solutions and guaranteed system reliability, wedi offers long-lasting, complete solutions for wet rooms. The family company, founded in 1983 by Helmut Wedi, currently employs around 500 members of staff and is active in more than 50 countries.
installations often require multiple components and suppliers, resulting in a time-consuming and confusing process. The new rigid-foam, single-source system will make your next shower installation a breeze!
