ST. LOUIS—The National Wood Flooring Association ( NWFA) announced its induction of brothers Carl and Edgar Anstett, with the Powernail Co., into its prestigious Hall of Fame during its recent convention in Denver. The Hall of Fame award is presented to individuals who exhibit personal commitment and dedication in uniting all segments of the wood flooring industry.

Carl and Edgar Anstett founded the Powernail Co. in 1946. Tool and dye makers by trade, the Anstett brothers applied their knowledge of metalworking to invent a new power nailing machine and cleat system that would revolutionize the way professionals install hardwood flooring. One of their first developments, a window frame-nailing machine, quickly evolved into the Powernail wood flooring nailer and Powercleat system, which distinguished the brothers with their first patent in 1947. Refinements in that early system plus many other innovative tools and fastening systems continued to flow from the Anstetts’ shop, as these recognized pioneers set the course in a segment of the installation tool business that the Anstetts believed was not a major focus of other companies.

Recently celebrating its 50th anniversary, Powernail is owned and managed by founder Carl Anstett’s two sons, Tom and David. Tom Anstett, Powernail’s president, who last year were inducted into the Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) Hall of Fame ( FCNews, Sept. 4/11), left a legacy of quality and innovation, and it is Powernail’s responsibility to live up to the reputation the Anstett brothers worked so hard to establish.

Induction into the NWFA Hall of Fame requires a unanimous vote from the board of directors for approval.