The 2023 Wood Floor of the Year for Best in Historic Restoration was installed in a refurbished downtown Kansas City, Missouri, warehouse. The flooring material, sourced from the Jim Beam Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, carries a rich history, having been reclaimed from the distillery after it was destroyed by fire in 2019.
The pine planks, measuring 1-1/2” thick by 5” wide, presented a unique challenge due to the boards’ damaged tongue and groove. More than 3,000 three-inch screws were used to secure the floor to the subfloor, ensuring a solid foundation. The installation process, which took more than a week, involved working on both the first and second floors, with the latter featuring a long hallway that merged into three separate offices.
Keeping the rows straight was crucial for the success of this project. Despite the inherent imperfections in the historical flooring, such as dings, dents, saw marks, burns, paint, gaps, and holes, the team used laser technology to ensure perfect alignment.
Ratchet straps proved invaluable for locking the tongue and groove in place, along with the use of 3” screws and staples to fasten the boards securely to the subfloor and joists. The result is a floor that showcases the character and charm of its history, while also maintaining a high level of craftsmanship and precision.
The finishing process aimed to preserve the rustic nature of the wood, with a rough sanding and polyurethane satin finish applied to enhance and protect the reclaimed wood’s beauty. This project is a testament to the talent and dedication of the team, who managed to breathe new life into the historic flooring, creating a space that honors its past while embracing the present.
Featured Category
Best in Historic Restoration
CATEGORY DETAILS:
Entries in this category include all types of restoration projects, replacements, or repairs, in either a residential or commercial application.
Installation Type: Nail Down
Flooring Type: Reclaimed
Flooring Finish: Masterline Polyurethane
Flooring Sheen: Satin
Species: Pine
Square Feet: 2,400
Have an amazing wood floor? Learn more about the Wood Floor of the Year at nwfa.org/wfoy/.
