While much of the attention at this year's Surfaces was paid to the floor, radiant heating systems and accessories makers urged showgoers to look beyond the floor and consider the benefits of radiant heating. Companies debuted new systems and materials engineered specifically for use with radiant heating technology. At least one manufacturer -- WarmlyYours -- had its sales force dressed down in bathrobes to illustrate the potential comfort offered by its radiant products.
Dallas-based company ElkCorp, a division of Elk Specialty Fabric Technologies, has entered the flooring market with VersaShield underlayment. Designed for use under carpets and carpet tiles, VersaShield aims to eliminate moisture and the possibility of mold.
Wayne H. Smith, a WWII hero who later established the highly respected Midwestern flooring company C&F Distributors, died Feb. 11, in Tulsa, Okla., due to complications from a stroke. He was 75.
Mariann Gregory has announced that she is retiring as executive director of the National Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD) after 13 years.
Faus Group, Inc. said it has tapped Onthank Co., of Des Moines, and Houston-based T&L Distributing to handle the Fausfloor laminate flooring program which includes the Masterpieces Collection and Essentials Collection.