Las Vegas—i4F, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the global flooring industry, will introduce a new AI-powered digital showcase at Surfaces 2026 here and Domotex 2026 in Hannover, Germany.
The company will debut the experience-based exhibit at Surfaces in booth 2447 and Domotex in Hall 20, booth B20. The digitally enhanced showcase will allow visitors to explore i4F’s technologies through an interactive format supported by artificial intelligence.
The platform will serve as the launchpad for i4F’s AI strategy, branded under the umbrella name ai4F. It will feature three new technologies. The exhibit will also highlight i4F’s existing drop-lock, HerringB/ONE and water-resistant solutions, including AquaProtect and i-Click4U. The company will present these technologies through a digital interface.
The AI-driven format adapts content based on visitor preferences. It allows users to access information more efficiently and engage with technologies at their own pace.
“2026 will be an exciting year,” said John Rietveldt, CEO of i4F. “We are turning strategy into action by accelerating the industry’s move into digital platforms and applying AI to help our licensees bring solutions to market faster. We are also leading the shift toward seamless design by connecting floors, walls and now stairs into one unified visual experience.”
New stair tread technologies
i4F will officially present two new stair tread technologies designed to address a long-standing industry challenge: matching stairs seamlessly with floors. The solutions use the same material, décor, texture and height as the floor. This ensures a consistent design across stairs, landings and top steps.
The technologies support SPC, LVT, WPC, laminate and wood applications. They are available in L-shaped and U-shaped constructions to accommodate different stair types. Water-resistant by design, the systems prioritize safety, performance and fast installation for residential, commercial and hospitality projects.
Installers can complete installations without trimming, aluminum profiles or structural stair modifications. The result is a continuous visual flow from floor to stair.
CeraGrout expands to walls
i4F is also extending its CeraGrout technology from floors to walls with the introduction of CeraGrout Wall. The solution replicates the look of modern rectified ceramic while incorporating an easy-to-install locking system adapted for glued wall applications.
The fully waterproof SPC panels feature pre-attached grout, making surfaces easier to clean, more hygienic and less prone to staining. The technology is suited for bathroom and kitchen environments.