Roger Comartin has a simple message for customers of Rodco Draperies and Interiors: “We’re still open!”
At the beginning of March he and son Field adapted their father-son business to the “new normal” by donning masks, gloves and booties when visiting client’s homes to take measurements or install window treatments. Those procedures are still in place, so if you’re looking for help redecorating a room or solving a tricky design problem, you can call Rodco for a free consultation.
But after 30 years in business, Comartin knows flexibility is essential to longevity, so he’s broadened the scope of their services during these uncertain times. He’s started making masks.
Washable, re-usable anti-microbial masks
“When they won’t let me decorate I have to find other ways to keep working!” Comartin laughs.
Rodco makes an anti-microbial shower curtain treated on both sides with a water treatment from a Canadian company called Ultra-Fresh, which they’ve installed in hospitals and other institutions where cleanliness is essential. Now they’re using that same fabric to make re-usable anti-microbial masks.
“It’s a really great fabric, and very durable,” Comartin says.
Rodco has installed the shower curtains in VIHA facilities and dorm rooms at McMaster University, and says they’re impressed with how well the fabric has held up to repeated washings. That bodes well for re-usable masks.
“My clients call me the proactive contractor, because I do all these tests before I install a new product. I wash the fabric in the client’s own washing machine, then send it to a lab for testing. After 50 washes the fabric was still 92 per cent effective as an anti-microbial.”
Comartin hopes the hospitality industry will embrace his masks to protect employees as the economy re-opens. The Inn at Laurel Point and Paul’s Motor Inn have already placed orders, and Comartin has lots of production capacity to supply other businesses.
“I think it helps psychologically, if staff are in charge of their own masks. You know it works and you know you’ve cleaned it well. We’ve done a lot of testing on the material so you know this mask will work better than a homemade cloth mask, and you’ll have it for an awful long time.”
Problem solving for businesses and homeowners
Rodco enjoys coming up with custom solutions for complex spaces. Install tracks and curtains for cubicles to improve privacy and isolation. Reupholster dental, salon and barber chairs. Try motorized or manual blinds, drapes and curtains, and ask about clear vinyl curtains for your home or business.
Call, email or message Rodco to discuss your project, whether it’s a home renovation, big business custom order, or personal protective equipment. There’s no obligation to buy, even if you take advantage of Rodco’s free estimate service.
Visit rodcointeriors.com to find out more, email rodocinteriors@shaw.ca, or call 250-656-4642.