Name: Richard Forbes
Age: 44
Company: R F Forbes Flooring Contractors
Job Title: Owner
How did you get into the flooring industry?
My granddad always advised me to learn a trade, so I joined an apprenticeship scheme when I left school aged 15 and sort of fell into flooring. I worked for Ryedale Carpets & Flooring in North Yorkshire for 10 years after that, and I still work very closely with my mentor Rod Farquharson. His expertise has been essential to my success in the flooring industry.
What’s been the biggest change in the industry in the past 10 years/since you started?
The internet has definitely had a big impact, both good and bad. I’ve also noticed the increase in the number of products available and the range of prices.
Looking forwards, what do you think will be the biggest change in the next 10 years?
I think we’ll continue to see the development of fast track products and systems. So much work has been done already; F. Ball’s damp proof membranes are ready in an hour, for example. I’m excited to see what they do next!
What’s the worst job you’ve been on?
There have been a few over the years. We were hired to fit out a unit in an abattoir one summer, which was pretty gruesome. I couldn’t get the smell out of my clothes for weeks!
And what’s the best?
We’ve done some dementia-friendly work in care homes, which is very rewarding. Staff often report back on how big a difference our work has made to the residents’ mood and wellbeing.
Do you have go-to-products for certain jobs?
F. Ball is definitely our go-to product brand: Styccobond F3 and F46 adhesives and Stopgap F78 waterproof surface membrane are among our favourites. Styccobond F49 Hybrid adhesive has brilliant drying time and very high tack, and I’m in love with Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound! The service F. Ball delivers is second to none: in their products, technical support, and accessibility.
What do you like best about the job?
Being able to step back from a finished job and say, “We did that” with pride. I’m surrounded by a good team that I trust, and who are always keen to go above and beyond. Our new apprentice for example, Ellis Wilson, is only 21 years old and works so hard – he’s definitely going to make his mark on the flooring industry! And Rod, who’s at the ripe old age of 65, still helps us out and produces top quality work every time.
What is your least favourite thing about the job?
Aside from late payments, I see it too often where clients try to push contractors to hit unrealistic timescales. They don’t always understand that products need a specific amount of time to set, and rushing can lead to mistakes and problems further down the line. Patience always pays off.