Name: Andy Hardy
Age: 53
Company: Premier Carpets, Launceston
Job Title: Managing Director
How did you get into the flooring industry?
I started working with a family friend, who was a carpet fitter, on day release whilst I was at school. When I got a full-time job, my first project was fitting the carpet in the Little Theatre in Bath on the afternoon that I left school, aged 16.
What’s been the biggest change in the industry over the past 10 years?
There isn’t anywhere near as much carpet installed in houses today. There was a time when we carpeted nearly every room. Nowadays, it’s typically just the stairs, landing and bedrooms. It’s mostly LVT, engineered wood or good quality vinyl sheet in other areas.
Looking forwards, what do you think will be the biggest change in the next 10 years?
I think it’ll be surrounding the way we purchase materials. Everything will be automated, and there will be greater options for bespoke floorcoverings. Technology, including mobile apps will allow this. With this, I think we’ll see the resurgence of the small independent businesses.
What’s the worst job you’ve been on?
It was replacing Altro safety flooring in an egg-processing plant. Lots of broken egg found its way under existing flooring where forklift trucks had damaged it. I nearly passed out when lifting the first bits because the smell was so horrible. I can still taste it now! Bleurgh…
And what’s the best
So many to choose from. Working in Peter Gabriel’s house, near Bath, was one. Staying in the stars’ accommodation whilst installing flooring at Abbey Road studios was another. I also installed a Forbo bespoke printed vinyl that had been painted by the customer herself and made into her conservatory floor – using F44 of course.
Do you have a go-to product for certain jobs?
Yes, it’s F3. We wouldn’t consider using any other adhesive to install carpets.
What do you like best about the job?
Giving an opportunity to people and teaching new flooring contractors a satisfying and well-paid trade.
What is your least favourite thing about the job?
Being called back to a job when something goes wrong. I hate getting calls from unhappy customers. This is why we use the best products, to ensure it doesn’t happen.