Hardwood Floors April/May 2026

CHAIR’S CUT

Steve Brattin Chair, NWFA

Ignite YOUR PASSION

You’ve probably heard the saying, “If you do what you love, you never will work a day in your life.” I wish that were the case, but as much as wood flooring professionals love what we do, we all know it also can be hard work. At the same time, our profession is filled with passionate individuals who jump at the chance to talk about their latest project and share their experiences with others. Whether you are manufacturing custom wide-plank wood flooring or installing a starburst pattern in a home’s foyer, the excitement and pride that go into it are on display. Our industry is filled with craftspeople who see their work as art. One of the best ways to keep that spark alive is by attending the NWFA Expo. Taking place April 21 to 23 in Orlando, Florida, it is the only trade show in the world dedicated exclusively to wood flooring. Here, you can join with like-minded attendees and exhibitors who share your passion. Throughout the event, there are plenty of opportunities to find inspiration to bring back to the jobsite with you. In 2026, we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Expo. For four decades, the NWFA Expo has set the standard. As we mark this milestone, we raise the standards even higher. There are more than 30 hours of expert-led education sessions that cover a variety of topics related to technique, business, and innovation. Some of the industry’s top minds will share their knowledge on leadership skills, collaborating with architects and designers, social media, historic restoration, and more. In this space, not only can you soak up their expertise, but also ask them questions. You truly cannot gain this type of access to resources anywhere else. During the opening session, the Wood Floor of the Year winners will be announced. These showstopping projects always open new doors to what we think is

possible with wood flooring and help us all come up with new ideas. With live technical demonstrations and more than 250 exhibitors, you are sure to find a new product or proven solution on the tradeshow floor that can make a difference

PHOTO COURTESY OF NWFA

for your business. There are plenty of opportunities to network with your industry peers throughout the week. Whether it is the Opening and Closing Parties, New Member Reception, Distributor and Manufacturer Reception, Women’s

Industry Network Session, the NWFA Emerging Leaders Reception, or the NERF Golf Tournament, there is something for everyone. And you are surrounded by others who also can’t wait to talk shop. Within this issue of the magazine, you will find previews of some of the education that can be experienced at Expo. The full schedule of events and some of the top products exhibitors will feature on the trade show floor can be found

starting on page 54. The theme is “Ignite Your Passion” and we have everything you need to do that. e we u

To register for Expo or learn more about how you can make the most of your time in Orlando, visit NWFAEXPO.ORG ADVANCE YOUR CAREER AND YOUR CREATIVITY.

Expo is where the industry’s

future is shaped.

hardwood floors hardwoodfloorsmag.com

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