Hardwood Floors October/November 2024

Members say the reasons for persistent supply chain hiccups include: • Closure of small- and mid-sized mills • High shipping costs

• Increased logging costs • Limited labor market • Existing mills can’t keep up

“When quoting upcoming jobs, we let our customers know of supply and demand issues and limited availability,” said Mike Karolitzky, regional sales manager at P.C. Hardwood Floors. “We let them know of price increases. If it’s something that they know they’ll need, order it today and put a deposit on it today so we can hold it. Otherwise, I can’t guarantee where it will be in a week or two.” “We’re constantly unsure of what tomorrow will bring, but planning and having the right resources and partners keeps us in a good place,” said Steven Skutelsky, managing partner at PID Floors, added. “Pre-Covid, there was more assurance that quotes from 30/60/90 days ago would be in the same ballpark as today. Post-Covid, that’s not happening.” SKILLED LABOR CHALLENGES REMAIN Nearly 57 percent of NWFA members still struggle to fill critical positions. Most respondents (78 percent) said the challenge is about the same as in 2023. According to one member, an aging workforce reaching retirement age also leaves gaps in skilled positions. Others blamed diminished work ethic for their labor shortages. One NWFA member said: “Applicants that have a good work ethic and are willing to do the physical work are few and far between and get hired quickly. To find that one employee, be ready to review dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants.” Another member said: “Hardwood flooring installation is considered a mid-skill career, easier to get into than electrician or plumber, but harder than general labor.” “In certain parts of the country, like Maine, it’s tough to find qualified help because there is no licensing for flooring contractors,” said Richard

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

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