It’s back to school time for many families this month and also a time for moving into cooler weather and tackling tile projects to ready homes for the holidays. And for tile contractors, it can be “back to school time” for you to boost your knowledge on standards-based methods and techniques that can put you ahead of the curve and spell success for your projects.
This month’s issue brings you training and education in print on a range of topics. For instance, in our Training and Education section, we introduce our new interactive NTCA Training Map that gives you an easy way to view training opportunities near you and get them on your calendar. This section also highlights a program for teen girls recently that enabled them to experience an age-appropriate tile project that generated enthusiasm for pursuing a career in tile setting.
In our Business section, check out two new Member Benefits that will enhance your business with a professionally-built website and discounts on many services you use daily. In our Technical section, CTEF’s Scott Carothers talks with Aryk Snowberger of Snowbee Custom Tile about a nightmare spacer situation that cropped up on a project – and explores what other trades do not know about tools used in our trade.
You may have heard about the inaugural Flooring Sustainability Summit that was held in Washington, DC in July. In our A&D section, we list the top takeaways from the Summit that will impact our industry as we collaborate to create healthier buildings with healthier products.
Contributing Writer Amanda Mourelatos tells the story of NTCA Member Rob Melquist and his company Ceramic & Stone Solutions in Milwaukie, Ore., in our Member Spotlight section.
MAPEI’s Jim Whitfield brings us a cover story about specifying grouts and the benefits of different grout types, plus links to projects that illustrate their strengths and benefits.
And NTCA President Sam Bruce points out one of the most powerful and valuable benefits of NTCA membership: industry friends who provide camaraderie, support, help and assistance, wisdom and fun! Grab the chance to foster some new friendships or visit with old friends at the upcoming Total Solutions Plus event taking place in Boston, Mass., next month. Bart Bettiga’s story in this issue gives you the highlights of this all-industry event.
Please also check our digital issue of TileLetter for bonus content: A report on an award-winning project by NTCA Five-Star Contractor Christian Brothers and a story by Publisher Elena Grant on a recent NTCA webinar about warranties presented by Danick Lalonde, Area Technical Manager at TEC. Plus, in every digital issue we have Spanish versions of our Ask the Experts and Technical sections for our Spanish-speaking members.
Enjoy learning this month in all its forms: training opportunities, the wisdom of industry sages and friends, the TCNA Handbook and NTCA Reference Manual, and tips and information you’ll find on the pages of TileLetter.
God bless,
Lesley
Editorial Director and Senior Writer for TileLetter and TileLetter ARTISAN
Lesley Goddin has been writing and journaling since her first diary at age 11. Her journey has taken her through a career in publishing and publicity, landing her the editor position of TileLetter and its special publications in 2006. Her goal is to educate, inspire, recognize and encourage those in the tile industry -- especially the tile and stone contractor.
