Concrete Flooring Growth and Growth and More Growth

Focus - Sustainable coatings for concrete

04/29/2019 17:00:00 | Viewed: 1Font size:

Felipe Carstens, President, Modern Day Concrete Inc., San Antonio, TX

SAN ANTONIO - Carstens has been working in the concrete coatings industry for over 16 years. He was born in St. Louis, MO and lived his childhood in Santiago, Chile. His family moved back to the states in ’94. He has been in business for over 10 years and is very excited about what’s to come.

What are the “hot button” issues in the concrete industry?     The hot button issues right now in our industry are the lack of general standards for companies to get into our trade. I would also say it is the general contractor and the terms they set for the subcontractor on draws and payments. At the end of the day, the subcontractor takes the financial burden of the project and has to wait anywhere from 30 to 90 days to get paid. This causes a burden on the subcontractor. The products we are using as installers need to be more user-friendly with zero voc, and sustainable, for the long-term installer and our overall health. How would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms? Have you experienced an increase in business? Slowdown?     The state of construction in San Antonio is booming. We have been experiencing great amounts of growth on a yearly basis.

What factors are driving this increase/slowdown?     The factors driving growth are the economy and the population spike in Texas. This is all good for business.

How has this increase/slowdown affected your company and how you conduct business?     We are capitalizing on our growth and branching out as much as possible. We have opened up an office in Dallas and will be opening up offices in Houston and Austin by the end of the year.

What are the major changes in the concrete industry in recent years?     Major changes in the industry for us are that our customers have been educated on our products and can make better decisions. We lead them every step of the way to choose the correct flooring system for their needs.

Have there been any recent changes in legislation affecting the concrete industry relating to transportation or the environment?     No major changes, but we are talking about legislation for better terms for subcontractors. What is the most significant challenge your industry faces? Labor shortages? Other?     The most significant challenges are skilled labor, payment terms from general contractors and educating customers on the different concrete flooring systems.

How are you dealing with these challenges?     Dealing with one issue at a time such as proper training for employees, certifications, and the management of accounts to better serve our customers. What are the cost increases (if any) relating to your industry?     Everything is going up from materials to skilled labor to operating costs. What is on the horizon for your industry? (Changes in technology; equipment; other)     I think the industry is evolving into more sustainable and zero voc products. Long term we need products that will not harm installers. What are the rewards of the industry?     The rewards are we get to make a difference in our communities. We’re creating jobs and creating long-term relationships. There’s no better reward than that.

What are keys to being successful?     Good management of your resources, keeping a high quality standard and creating lasting business relationships make a successful business.     Modern Day Concrete is a concrete coatings subcontractor in San Antonio, TX. –cmw