The challenge that changed everything
How business turmoil during Covid-19 taught the founder of 360 Degree Flooring to trust his instincts while balancing risk and opportunity
IAN Windsor says he’s built a company that combines skill, experience and a commitment to delivering high-quality commercial flooring projects across the UK.
Based in Dumfries with a unit in Glasgow, 360 Degree Flooring specialises in LVT, safety flooring, staircases, carpets, and wall coverings such as Whiterock. The company focuses almost exclusively on commercial projects, including care homes, student accommodation, local councils, NHS facilities, and universities.
The business has been operating for 11 years. Ian, now 41, began in the flooring industry at 16 as a domestic carpet fitter after persistently approaching companies looking for apprenticeship opportunities.
‘I just kept harping on, asking if they were looking for an apprentice,’ he recalls. From there, he gained experience in commercial flooring, a very different environment from domestic work, which sharpened his eye for detail and precision. That combination of domestic and commercial training gave him a strong foundation for running his own business.
Ian launched 360 Degree Flooring in his early thirties. He chose the name deliberately to reflect a company that could cover all angles and offer a complete service, independent of his own identity.
‘I wanted it to be a company that could grow with or without me, something that could eventually involve my kids or even be sold one day,’ he explains. His philosophy has always been to maintain a hands-on approach while keeping the team tight-knit, ensuring quality is never compromised.
The company currently employs eight core fitters, supported by trusted subcontractors when required. Ian values building a team he can rely on, particularly in an industry where skilled and qualified installers are hard to find. ‘Training and experience are key,’ he says. ‘I’ve had to train nearly all my guys myself. It takes time and patience, but it pays off in quality work and loyal, capable staff.’
He acknowledges that recruiting is a challenge across the sector, especially for leadership roles, but focuses on developing talent from within to ensure continuity and consistency.
Ian is passionate about the hands-on aspect of flooring. ‘Nothing beats seeing the finished product,’ he says. ‘You might be doing the last part of a building, but when you walk out and see it all completed properly, it’s incredibly satisfying.’ His favourite projects often involve LVT, particularly Amtico and Karndean, where precision and templates are key. ‘It takes skill to fit correctly, and I enjoy that part of the work,’ he explains.
Over the years, Ian and his team have taken on projects across the UK, from London to the Shetland Isles, and continue to travel widely for clients. Care homes remain a core part of the business, alongside student accommodation, local authorities, and NHS facilities. The company also occasionally works with contractors and larger national clients, maintaining flexibility while keeping a strong commercial focus.
Like any business, Ian has encountered challenges. One notable experience came during Covid-19 when 360 Degree Flooring navigated the complexities of furlough and essential worker status.
A project at Chelsea Creek in London required flooring in temporary site huts, and Ian decided to take his team off furlough to complete the work. Despite previous delays with the client and a sense of caution, he trusted his team and went ahead.
The client ultimately went out of business, resulting in a financial setback of about £30,000. Ian reflects positively on the experience: ‘It wasn’t ideal, but it taught me the importance of trusting my instincts while balancing risk and opportunity. Every challenge is a chance to learn and grow.’
Onsite conditions are another consideration, requiring careful planning and problem-solving. Ian emphasises the importance of preparation and collaboration with other trades to ensure projects run smoothly. He also keeps pace with trends, noting that while domestic LVT remains strong, commercial projects such as care homes often prioritise safety flooring, durability, and suitability for heavy use.
Ian’s commitment to his team extends beyond training and technical skill. He strives to provide opportunities for growth, mentorship and responsibility. ‘It’s not just about laying floors; it’s about developing people, creating a strong, motivated team, and maintaining standards consistently across projects.’ This philosophy allows 360 Degree Flooring to manage projects efficiently while keeping client satisfaction high.
Despite the challenges of recruitment, fluctuating demand and onsite complications, Ian continues to focus on delivering quality. He has no ambition to scale the business too quickly, preferring controlled growth that ensures every project is completed to a high standard.
