SEALANTS AND ADHESIVES W hen it comes to wall
preparation and repair, roll-on fillers are becoming a favourite with painters and decorators.
Traditionally, trowel fillers were the go-to option, but this is changing as products such as Dalapro Roll Nova enter the market. That’s according to Martin Spalenice, head of trade sales at Okarno, who says that one of the main benefits of roller fillers is their ease of use and efficiency. “Unlike trowel fillers, which need more application effort and can be troublesome when trying to attain a smooth finish, roller fillers can be applied quickly and uniformly,” he says. “This speed is particularly beneficial for professionals working under tight deadlines, allowing them to complete projects faster and avoid having to wait for specialist trades.“
Roller fillers are suitable for a wide range of surfaces, including plasterboard, concrete and textured finishes. This adaptability means that decorators can use them in a broader range of applications without needing to switch products. They are effective for filling in cracks, nail pops and other minor imperfections, ensuring a consistent finish. Spalenice says that, from a value perspective, roller fillers offer a cost-effective solution for decorators, which is one reason why demand for them is growing in merchant branches. “This is possible because of the considerably less time and labour needed to apply roller fillers, which translates to lower overall project costs. Plus, the ability to store our filler in resealable tubs means that any leftover product can be saved for future use, minimising waste and again maximising value for money.”
Improved Formulations The formulation of roller fillers has been tailored to enhance performance with products like Okarno’s Dalapro Roll Nova, which features a creamy texture that allows for smooth application and excellent adhesion to various surfaces. The fact that it is grey in colour makes it easy to see where it has been applied.
“With an average drying time of just eight hours, decorators can complete projects efficiently without long wait times. This aspect is particularly beneficial where construction projects are working to a tight deadline and need to maximise their time. For example, it can be applied last thing before leaving site in the late afternoon and be dry and ready the next morning. Once rolled onto the surface, it can be smoothed using a skimming blade and left to dry,” he says.
These kinds of roller fillers offer environmental benefits, too, Spalenice explains. “For example, Dalapro, which is made by a Saint Gobain company, uses climate-neutral production, as well as recycled packaging materials. The tub is also manufactured with 75% recycled plastic.
ROLL WITH IT
The popularity of roller fillers is increasing.
BMJ asks the question why, and what does it mean for merchants?
mixed pallet loads, through to small parcels. “ Merchants can order as little as a single pallet, whether that’s a full pallet of one product, or a mixed pallet of products from across the range. The Okarno Gyproc Express service also allows customers to order a single product for small and speedy orders.
The Way Forward
Additionally, the product’s instructions provide guidance on the proper disposal of filler residues and empty containers, promoting responsible waste management practices.”
Collaboration with suppliers He adds that effective collaboration is essential when identifying and introducing new product lines like roller fillers, and we find that working in partnership with merchants is the best approach. In the end, this process leads to the selection of new product lines that align with market demand.
“We’ve also made it possible to order full or mixed pallet deliveries of roller filler, making it a quick win for merchants looking for additional sales. The number of merchants that offer this range is growing as more look to add roller fillers to their portfolio.
“It’s the reason why we’ve always been clear about our offering: we combine market-leading trade brands and deliver them in a sustainable way directly through three service offerings: Customers can choose from single pallets,
December 2024
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
Spalenice says: “We like to think we have embraced sustainability in every possible way, even down to our rebrand. Formerly known as Artex, our rebrand to Okarno was part of this story because it marked a significant milestone in our journey to a sustainable supply chain leader. Behind this rebrand, there have been several commitments that demonstrate our approach to sustainability:
“One of the most impactful initiatives we have undertaken has been the transition of our distribution core fleet to run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). This strategic move has achieved up to 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional diesel, while improving air quality for colleagues, customers and local communities.
“The shift towards sustainably produced roller fillers represents an opportunity for merchants to increase sales with customers looking for an easy-to-apply, fast solution for smoothing walls and ceilings. More painters and decorators are recognising the advantages of these products, meaning that builders’ merchants that respond to demand by partnering with the right supplier can enhance their offerings and boost sales. When backed up by reliable, sustainable deliveries and in- branch support, it can significantly contribute to business success.” BMJ
27
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40
