Hardwood Floors February/March 2026

CHAIR’S CUT

Steve Brattin Chair, NWFA

SIGNIFICANCE Sustainable Research Institute confirms that refinishing hard flooring surfaces, including wood, is more sustainable for the environment than replacing the flooring surfaces. So, who keeps these floors alive for hundreds of years? Dedicated wood flooring professionals who have learned the ins and outs of the special care that has to be taken with these artifacts of our industry. Whether it involves making a new board match boards from the 17th century, hand sanding to

be delicate enough with the remaining surface, or turning a beam from an ancient structure into a new floor, their work is fascinating. If you have never taken on a historic project, get inspired by looking at some of your peers’ favorites starting on page 38. They also will share how to get involved in this work and give advice on the special considerations that must be taken. That sharing of knowledge is one of my favorite things about being a member of the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and is important to sustain the industry as a whole. How else can you make a connection with someone you can call on when you have questions

Admit it. When you walk into a place, the first thing you do is look down at the floors. I know that is the case for me, anyway. This especially is the case when walking into a historic building. Whether it’s a home from the 1800s here in Kansas City, Missouri, or an ancient structure halfway across the globe in Italy, I find myself thinking, “if only the wood could talk.” This issue of Hardwood Floors magazine pays tribute to historic restoration and preserving antique wood. Some may consider it a niche part of the wood flooring industry, but this

important work is key to telling wood’s sustainability story to the consumer. When we say wood flooring can last well beyond 100 years in service when properly maintained, the evidence is in castles, churches, and homes where the original wood floors have survived for centuries. It shows that wood is the most environmentally friendly flooring option available. Wood floors reduce the amount of waste in landfills because they can last for many

PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL FLOORS INC.

in a specialty area such as historic restoration? Take the opportunity to tap these resources and learn from the best – whether it’s via a phone call, email, or one of the NWFA’s hands-on training courses.

generations. Further, research has found via a cost-per-year ranking that wood flooring has excellent long-term value. And a recent study conducted by the IVL Swedish Environmental

Get involved!

Plan on joining us for a class in 2026 or at the Wood Flooring Expo, which is taking place April 21-23 in Orlando, Florida. For more information, contact the NWFA at 800.422.4556 or visit nwfa.org.

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