As leaders in coated flooring solutions for livestock operations, Tom Stensrud, Owner, and Josh Couch, Sales Manager, are at the forefront of industry innovation. In this exclusive Q&A, they share insights on what sets ADA Enterprises apart, key takeaways from the recent trade show season, and how they help producers find the best flooring solutions for their operations.
Q&A with Tom Stensrud, Owner of ADA Enterprises
1. How Does Innovative Coating Technology Set ADA Enterprises Apart?
Tom Stensrud: Dura Trac flooring combines the strength of steel with the significant benefits of a durable plastisol coating. Our process ensures the plastisol is strongly bonded to the steel, making it the most durable swine flooring on the market.
Not only are Dura Trac floors durable, but our plastisol now features robust antimicrobial protection to enhance sanitation and reduce the risk of disease within swine facilities. With this feature, Dura Trac Swine Flooring sets a new industry standard, promoting healthier livestock environments.
ADA Enterprises sold the first plastic-coated farrowing floor in 1974 near Walters, Minnesota. As a family business, we value our reputation for quality products and great customer service. Over time, we’ve adapted to our clients’ needs, ensuring that our flooring provides an exceptionally clean, warm, and dry environment for piglets while also being highly economical to install.
2. The Evolution of Animal Comfort and Flooring Solutions
Tom Stensrud: Initially, our flooring options were limited in style and size. Today, the majority of our flooring is custom-built to meet each customer’s unique requirements. Along with advancements in our plastisol formula, we continue to innovate in health and safety solutions for the swine industry.
Our latest innovations include an antimicrobial additive in our plastisol and a shift in color from traditional tan to orange. This change brightens dark barns and allows caretakers to spot piglets more easily, identifying potential issues sooner.
We focus on both animal and farmer comfort. Barn cleaners have reported that our nursery flooring remains so clean that it’s difficult to tell whether it has even been washed. We will continue to evolve, ensuring cost-effective, long-lasting solutions for our customers.
3. Reflecting on the State Trade Show Season in the U.S.
Tom Stensrud: Trade shows are essential for showcasing our Dura Trac product line. They provide potential customers with the opportunity to feel the sturdiness of our floors, stand on them, and discuss their specific operational needs with us.
Trade shows are our preferred marketing method because they allow us to connect directly with farmers and business associates. The trade show floor and after-hours gatherings provide the perfect setting to highlight both our products and our people. It truly is our favorite time of the year!
Q&A with Josh Couch, Sales Manager at ADA Enterprises
1. What Were the Top Two Trends Customers Were Asking About at State Trade Shows?
Josh Couch: Two major concerns when purchasing or replacing flooring are longevity and pricing.
ADA offers one of the longest warranties in the swine flooring industry—a 10-year warranty, with most floors lasting 25-30 years. We have replaced flooring that was over 35 years old, which is a testament to our quality and craftsmanship.
ADA continuously invests in technology and manufacturing improvements, allowing us to enhance quality while reducing costs. Our recent adoption of robotic technology has decreased production time, making our flooring more competitively priced.
2. Why Is a Farrowing Crate Used in Swine Production?
Josh Couch: Farrowing crates provide a safe space for piglets, particularly in the crucial first few days after birth, reducing pre-wean mortality. While we don’t manufacture or distribute farrowing crates, I believe flooring has an even greater impact on production than crate style.
ADA Dura Trac Flooring retains heat better than other options, which is essential for newborn pigs’ health and early growth. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties in our plastisol help maintain cleanliness, reducing the risk of bacteria transmission from previous litters. This ultimately results in healthier pigs and higher profitability for producers.
3. Helping Customers Find the Right ADA Enterprises Flooring Solution
Josh Couch: ADA manufactures both farrowing and nursery flooring, offering expanded metal and welded rod options. We also provide custom solutions, including recessed heat mats and hot water heat plates, tailored to specific barn needs.
Every barn is unique, which is why we prioritize customization and experience in swine manufacturing. Our welded rod flooring is the easiest-to-clean swine flooring available, promoting better piglet mobility in nursery settings. Meanwhile, expanded metal flooring, our most popular farrowing option, provides maximum traction for newborn piglets while maintaining body temperature, ensuring healthier growth and greater safety.
For more information on ADA Enterprises’ flooring solutions and how they are shaping the future of livestock management, visit ADA Enterprises.
