60-Second Interview: Mike Knapman, Infinite Tiling
Name: Mike Knapman
Company: Infinite Tiling
Job title: Contracts Manager
How did you get into the flooring industry?
By accident! I needed a job and my neighbour happened to be the owner of a small carpet shop. So, I popped round for a chat and before I knew it, I was working for him on domestic jobs.
After four years, I went self-employed and made the change to commercial flooring.
More recently, I wanted a change and it was a friend of a friend who sung my praises to the commercial manager here at Infinite Tiling. After a chat, I ended up returning to the world of employment. That was back in September and it’s all been great, so far.
What’s been the biggest change in the industry over the past ten years?
I’d say many things have improved vastly since I started. Product quality, fitting methods, and tools in particular have come on significantly. It all makes for an easier working life.
Looking forwards, what do you think will be the biggest industry change in the next five to 10 years?
The industry is turning more toward eco-friendly products, recyclables, and making products that are less harmful to the environment. As a business, we’re conscious of it and want to do our bit as much as we can. Of course, manufacturers need to do their bit too.
What’s the best job you’ve been on?
University College London (UCL) was a great job. We were subcontracted as part of a wider refurbishment and it had good management, good products to work with and it was just good fun.
And what’s the worst?
The usual suspects when it comes to refurbishments – prisons, mental health units, and council houses, bathrooms and toilets in particular.
Do you have a go-to F. Ball product for certain jobs?
Stopgap 1200 smoothing compound. I love the flow rate, it’s stable once down, and I never have any issues.
Also, Styccobond F3, F44, F46, and F49. And the primers are really good, too. F. Ball is my go-to – I love F. Ball!
What do you like best about the job?
People I work with – it’s a solid team here. I also like the relations I can build with customers.
What is your least favourite thing?
The admin side of things. Coming off the tools and having to put some hours in in the office. I’m hoping to get used to it.