What Does It Mean To Be Certified? Understanding the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA)
When you’re investing in new hardwood floors or restoring old ones, the contractor you choose matters just as much as the materials. But with so many flooring companies to choose from, how can you tell who truly knows their craft? One of the most reliable indicators is certification by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).
At St Peter Flooring, our NWFA certification isn’t just a badge — it’s a commitment to excellence, precision, and integrity in every project. But what exactly does it mean to be certified, and why should it matter to you as a homeowner or design professional? Let’s break it down.
Who is the NWFA?
The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) is the leading organization in the hardwood flooring industry, setting the highest standards for training, craftsmanship, and ethics. From installation and sanding to refinishing and repairs, the NWFA develops the guidelines that flooring professionals across the country follow.
Being certified means a contractor has gone through extensive hands-on training, testing, and continuing education to stay up-to-date on best practices. It’s not just about passing a course — it’s about mastering the art and science of wood flooring.
What NWFA Certification Means for You
When you hire an NWFA-certified flooring contractor, you’re choosing someone who is recognized for meeting the gold standard in the industry. Here’s what that means for your project:
Precision Installation – Your floors will be laid correctly the first time, ensuring strength beneath every step.
Expert Restoration – Historic floors are handled with care, preserving what’s worth keeping while extending their life.
Durable Finishes – Certified contractors know the right techniques for sanding and finishing to create long-lasting beauty.
Up-to-Date Knowledge – Certification requires continuing education, so your contractor uses the latest tools and best practices.
Peace of Mind – You can trust that your investment is in skilled, ethical hands.
Why St. Peter Flooring Chose Certification
For us, NWFA certification reflects our values: craft with clarity, legacy made lasting, and spaces with soul. We believe homeowners deserve more than a rushed installation or a quick fix. Certification allows us to offer the reassurance that every floor we touch is guided by expertise, care, and respect for both the craft and your home.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring Any Flooring Contractor
Before you begin your flooring project, ask your contractor:
Are you certified by the NWFA?
How many years of experience do you have in installation or restoration?
Can you provide examples of past work?
What process do you follow to ensure durability and longevity?
These questions help you separate true craftsmen from contractors who may cut corners.
Certification isn’t just a title — it’s a promise. By choosing an NWFA-certified professional, you’re ensuring that your floors are more than beautiful; they’re built to last.
At St. Peter Flooring, we’re proud to carry the NWFA standard into every project, from custom hardwood installations to historic floor restorations.