Hardwood Floors June/July 2026

MEET OUR MEMBERS

MEMBER CONTRACTOR MEMBER

IZAIAH BARROW OWNER, iSANDNEWYORK | BRONX, NY

The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) is an international not-for-profit trade association with a mission to unify and strengthen the wood flooring community

Izaiah Barrow

me that reputation is everything and that meticulous work speaks louder than words. Big shout out to my Grand Uncle Willy, my Uncle Kyle, John Wilson, and Sprigg Lynn. What is your favorite wood floor project that you’ve participated in? My favorite projects are

through technical standards, education, networking, and advocacy. In each issue of Hardwood Floors, we will introduce you to one of the NWFA’s members. Izaiah Barrow is a third-generation hardwood flooring contractor and the owner of iSandNewYork. With 25 years of industry experience, he serves on NWFA’s Emerging Leaders Council and was named to Hardwood Floors magazine’s 40 Under 40 list in 2024. He has received a New York state proclamation for philanthropy and civic services. Tell us something interesting about yourself. I am involved deeply in youth development and neighborhood advocacy in the Bronx. Through initiatives like A Floorman’s Dream and my work organizing with community groups, I try to bridge the gap between skilled trades and opportunities for young people who may not otherwise be exposed to those pathways. My mission is to show them that excellence with your hands can open the same doors as excellence in a boardroom. How did you get started in the industry? Hardwood flooring has been part of my family for three generations. From age 11, I was exposed to the craft, tools, and the work ethic that comes with being a tradesman. Eventually, I founded iSandNewYork. Carrying on the tradition isn’t just about maintaining a family business; it’s about honoring the generations before me while raising the standard for the generations that will come. Who has influenced your career the most and why? The people who influenced me most were the tradesmen who came before me, family members, and mentors who showed me what pride in your craft truly looks like. They taught

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IZAIAH BARROW | ISANDNEWYORK

What are you listening to right now? I spend a lot of time listening to conversations and content that focus on leadership, discipline, and economic empowerment. At the same time, I stay connected to the culture of my community, whether that’s music, local stories, or the voices of people who are working to create positive change in neighborhoods like mine. Currently I’m listening to Nipsey Hussle’s “Victory Lap” album and reading “The Fire Next Time” by James Baldwin. What keeps you busy outside of work? A lot of my time goes into community work. I’m focused on mentoring young people, exposing them to trade opportunities, and helping them develop life skills that prepare them for adulthood. I’m involved in organizing community initiatives and events that bring residents together and connect families with resources. Success isn’t just measured by the floors we install; it’s also measured by the impact we leave on the people and neighborhoods around us. I also have a seven-year-old daughter and a two-year-old son.

the ones where craftsmanship meets storytelling. I’ve worked on many beautiful floors throughout New York, but what stands out the most are projects where we restore or revive spaces that have history behind them. My favorite project wasn’t a floor, but my pilot program at Montefiore Medical Community Center, where I taught campers ages 5 to 12 how to install, sand, and refinish a wood floor. How has being an NWFA member impacted your career? The NWFA represents excellence in the flooring industry, so being connected to that network pushes me to continue elevating my craft. It’s motivation to not only sharpen my skills, but inspire young people to see the trades as a respected and rewarding career path. Do you have a morning routine that sets you up for success? I like to begin the day with intention, prayer, reviewing my goals, checking my schedule, and making sure the work ahead is organized. Whether it’s heading to a jobsite or preparing

for a community meeting, I believe starting the day focused and disciplined sets the tone.

To learn more about how to join the NWFA or take advantage of the benefits of being a member, visit NWFA.ORG/MEMBERSHIP or call 800.422.4556.

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

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