These introductory level courses are designed for anyone who is new to the wood flooring industry. Students could choose from the two-day basic installation, two-day sand and finish, or register for the four-day session which included both.
Led by Phil Valenti, NWFA Regional Instructor and owner of Valenti Flooring, the basic installation portion included the history of wood flooring, an introduction to jobsite preparation, proper operation and use of wood flooring tools and equipment, installation of unfinished and factory finished solid and engineered flooring, and practice with nail, glue, and floating installation methods. The basic sand and finish course provided the fundamentals of sanding and finishing wood flooring, proper operation and uses of sanding equipment and tools, and practice with application of stains, sealers, and finishes.
“The basic installation and sand and finish class gets you to the entry level of what you should expect of yourself and your company moving forward in this industry as a professional and as a representative of the NWFA once you become a member,” explains Valenti. “Education benefits everybody as a whole. The more we learn, the more we earn. That’s a fact in any industry, any career path.”
Nick Aicardi with C&R Flooring in Westwood, Massachusetts, attended the class. Though he is in a sales role, he believes it is important to have a full understanding of the installation and sand and finish processes, so when he is speaking with homeowners and creating estimates, he can help them understand it as well.
“The way the class is structured has been very helpful for someone like me who doesn’t have experience with the installation or sanding and finishing of hardwood flooring,” says Aicardi. “Having it where you can see a traditional presentation and then apply that knowledge with your own two hands really is helpful to retain that information versus just watching a video or looking something up.”
“Part of the reason my experience has been so great is the trainers have been open and receptive to where we are as beginners,” he adds. “They understand that this is a basic class. They’re not pushing you too hard, they always are there to help. Even outside of the classroom, they are willing to talk and answer questions.”
NWFA hands-on workshops provide the opportunity to gain cuttingedge skills, master innovative techniques, and network with industry leaders. You’ll learn from NWFA Regional Instructors and manufacturer representatives showcasing cutting-edge products and expertise.
Basic Installation + Sand & Finish will be offered again August 25 – 28, 2026 at the NWFA Headquarters in St. Louis.
