Innovation in Tile Tool Technology

Yes, Coverings is about tile. It is also about innovation in tile installation tools and technology. 

In this article, Bill Granger, Manager of Tile Outlets of America in Tampa, shares his perspective on the recent Coverings trade event in Orlando and on tools that caught his attention.

Overall Impressions of Coverings 

This was the second time that Bill attended Coverings. The first time was in 2015 which was the first year it was held in Orlando, Florida. (Note: Coverings rotates between Orlando, Atlanta, and Las Vegas.)

In terms of overall impressions, here is what he details:

Coverings has always had the wow factor. It is a well-organized with dedicated sections for each country/region that allows to submerge yourself into the styles of that region. It can definitely be an overwhelming experience especially if you are only visiting for one day.

As a second time attendee it was still overwhelming.

That said, as a previous attendee Coverings met my expectations for a second time. For such a large convention center it really is very well organized.

Differences Between the Italian, Spanish, American, and Other Pavilions

With only one day at Coverings, Bill didn't have enough time for a thorough comparison between the different country pavilions.

However, he did notice Italy is above the curve when it comes to 3D technology. They really seemed to have the upper hand on the realistic stone looks.

Noteworthy Innovation in Tile Tool Technology

When asked about the most interesting products he saw at Coverings, Bill immediately gravitated toward tools. 

A motorized grouting machine

Motorized Grouting and Clean Up Machines

He explained,

I have always been interested in the innovation in tool technology.

A couple things I found very interesting included a motorized grouting machine and clean up machine (see image above and below). Tile installation can be a very physically demanding job especially with the tiles getting bigger and bigger.

Grouting can be just as demanding. To have a machine(s) that take the back breaking part of grouting out of the equation I thought was a great invention.

A mortorized grout cleanup machine

Tool Innovation from Bihui

Another innovative tool that caught Bill's attention was an introduction from Bihui for installing Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). He said,

Battery powered vacuum suction tools have been around for a while. Bihui had a suction tool that incorporated a metal hit bar on both ends to help close up seams when installing LVT.

I thought that was a unique tool that could definitely make installation easier than using a block on the edge that may cause damage.

Powered vacuum suction tools with a metal hit bar on both ends to help close up seams when installing LVT.

Noteworthy Tile Product Trends at Coverings

Bill noticed the following noteworth tile product trends:

This year the 3D technology seemed to be the star of the show. From fluted to stripped to wallpaper textures that give a three-dimensional look and feel.

There was also very realistic textures when it comes to stone looks that again had a very natural feel with dimension.

The color palettes seemed very natural as well. A lot of earthy tones from beige/ off white to the vibrant colors of water in the blues/aqua colors.

Why Attending Coverings Matters to Tile Outlets of America Store Managers

In case you're wondering about the benefit to store managers for attending tile industry trade events such as Coverings, here is Bill Granger's response:

Attending Coverings is really about product awareness and staying with the trends in the market. You never want to become stagnant as a business so consistently bringing on new products that appeals to the homeowner is key.

As a manager and employee owner it is important to know the trends and recognize what customers are looking for and help assist with making selections.  If something is missing in our selections, it's important to be proactive about suggesting new products to bring in to help fill the voids so we can gain those additional sales/customers.

Final Observations About Attending Coverings

If you plan on attending an industry event like Coverings, here is advice on how to get the most out of the experience:

• Make a plan
• Review the event map beforehand
• Know what you want to focus on and which areas you want to spend time in.

Walking into such a large convention can be overwhelming even with an organized venue. Have a road map and schedule that helps you navigate methodically so you can maximize what you can see, especially if it’s just a day trip.

Thanks for reading!

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