44 2018 | TECH CONTRACTOR PERSPECTIVE ––––– Dave Rogers, Welch Tile & Marble If you have been around a while, you will remember when your only option was to mud floors and walls to ensure they were flat or level. In the '70s and '80s, the backer board category started with the use of cement backer boards. Today, we have the option of more innovative products such as foam waterproof panels and uncoupling underlay- ments that are both manufactured by several companies. Yes, these types of products can be more expensive, but they do have many positives to help offset the additional cost. They weigh less, making it easier to transport the material to the jobsite and getting the material into the area where Recent introduction of more rigid silica exposure guidelines by OSHA gave even more power to the big trend of using backer boards that promote safety and health. “Peace of mind always beats low cost,” said Bastian Lohmann, wedi Corporation Vice President, Sales and Marketing. Professionals are concerned with pro- tecting their health during installation, and protecting the end user against potential exposure to contaminants later, he said. For example, many pro- fessionals choose modern, cement-coated foam core backer board made with cement coatings, which contain very low silica while offering a superior cement-bonding surface, she said. But silica is not the only concern with backer boards. Lohmann explained that the new legislation will make you want to look at Material Safety Data Sheets, which every manufacturer will provide for their backer boards. “Also be aware of other substances of concern: form- aldehydes, non- polymeric flame-retardants like HBCD, and many others,” Lohmann said. “To know your prod- uct is as important as the general use of PPE while in areas of construction.” – Louis Iannoco Know your product for health and safety Bastian Lohmann Backer Boards WHERE GROWING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR PURPOSE. Joe Lundgren is a globally recognized product and marketing expert in the ceramic and stone worldwide markets. His specialty is Business Development, Product Management, and Marketing. Joe has developed his expertise in strategic planning, new product development, and marketing strategy for North America during his 27 year career at Dal-Tile, a subsidiary of Mohawk Industries. Joe has extensive experience in multiple sales channels including distribution and Home Centers. Additionally, Joe represents the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) for its testing laboratories, which has Joe at the epicenter of the industry for all new initiatives. Please contact Joe Lundgren for a free consultation proposal! +1.214.641.7773 JOSEPHLUNDGRENCONSULTING.COM JLC_1.2_Horizontal_Ad_2017.indd 1 4/28/17 3:24 PM