UNIBOND U2: BACK IN GREEN

KENNESAW, Ga. — How do you improve upon the industry's leading high-performance broadloom backing system? Heighten its performance and make it the most sustainable. With this goal in mind, Lees Carpets recently introduced Unibond U2™, the new generation of Unibond®. A revolutionary, thermoplastic and fully recyclable broadloom backing system, Unibond U2 couples world-class performance with industry-leading sustainability - offering all of the innovative qualities that the original Unibond has brought to commercial interiors since its introduction in 1971, while reducing petrochemical in its manufacture by 50 percent.

Building on the Best

For over 30 years, and with more than 350 million square yards installed, Lees' Unibond set the standard for strength, durability and longevity in commercial interiors. The industry's first high-performance commercial carpet backing system to eliminate the need for seam sealers and welds, Unibond paved the way for today's advances in sustainable technology.

"We began with the cutting-edge technology and proven performance of Unibond and added breakthrough sustainable qualities that will make it last even longer," said Diann Barbacci, vice president of sustainable design for The Mohawk Group. "Introducing this new technology to an established product allows us to offer our customers environmentally responsible products that continue performing to an even higher degree."

Less Material, Less Waste

Utilizing advanced extrusion technology, Unibond U2 exemplifies dematerialization's "do more with less" mantra. The backing system is 50 percent less dependent on petroleum-based products, and incorporates a rapidly renewable bio-based resin, which alone reduces petrochemical consumption by 10 million pounds annually. Unibond U2 also weighs less than other backing materials, improving shipping efficiencies and saving fuel.

All Unibond U2 products contain a minimum of 18 percent pre-consumer recycled content by total weight, and 15 percent renewable content by total weight. Already easier to recycle than traditional carpet backing, Lees' ReCover program further simplifies the process. Utilizing reclamation resources across North America, Lees ensures all Unibond U2 carpet can be recycled in a sustainable manner - quickly and efficiently.

Power of Performance

Engineered for flexibility, Unibond U2 provides for a more ergonomic installation - a benefit that translates to faster installation times, less downtime and improved efficiencies for the facility. Additionally, continuing the legacy of the original Unibond, it requires no seam sealers or welds.

A permanent moisture barrier prevents liquid from penetrating the backing system and being absorbed into the flooring substrate. While most carpet loses approximately 50 to 60 percent of its tuft bind strength when subjected to moisture, Unibond U2 is impervious to moisture, maintaining the same physical properties in dry or wet conditions. The moisture barrier passes the British Spill Test, is totally synthetic and does not support mold growth.

Unibond U2 is backed by the only non-prorated lifetime warranty in the broadloom carpet category, covering backing delamination, wear and edge ravel. Produced in Lees' ISO 14001-certified manufacturing facility, the backing system ensures adherence to the highest environmental standards.

"Engineered to inspire," Lees' award-winning broadloom, modular and custom carpets provide superior performance, style and innovation for commercial environments. Founded in 1846, Lees Carpets is one of the most experienced and respected carpet makers in America. Lees' primary manufacturing facility is located in Glasgow, Va. For additional information, look for Lees at www.leescarpets.com.