If you’re looking for a way to give your hardwood floors a more rustic, textured, and visually striking look, the wire brush technique might be the answer. In a live demo hosted at City Floor Supply during our recent NWFA Intermediate Sand and Finish School, Austen Kreie of Lagler walked contractors through the ins and outs of this technique, including tips for choosing the right wire brush and how to prep your floor for the best results.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

What Is the Wire Brush Technique?

Wire brushing is a method used to open up the grain of wood, removing the softer growth rings and leaving behind the harder wood for a textured, tactile surface. It enhances the natural grain and gives floors a unique, weathered look that’s become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial settings.

This process is especially effective on wood species like oak, maple, and hickory—common choices in the U.S.—and is often paired with penetrating oil finishes to highlight the textured grain.

Choosing the Right Wire Brush

According to Austen, your choice of wire brush depends largely on the species of wood you’re working with:

• Stainless Steel: Most commonly used (about 85% of pros use it) due to its durability on harder woods like oak and maple. One kit that we recommend is the Lagler Trio wire brush kit.

• Brass: A softer alternative for medium-density woods.

• Nylon: Best for softer woods like pine or fir.

Each brush produces a different level of aggressiveness, so it’s essential to match the brush to the wood for optimal results.

How to Wire Brush Hardwood Floors: Pro Tips from the Demo

• Use wire brushing with oil-based finishes—it doesn’t have the same tactile effect with water-based products, which may show the grain but not enhance the feel.

• Vacuum thoroughly after brushing to remove debris.

• Don’t worry about directionality—this technique doesn’t require brushing with the grain.

• You can’t really “overdo it” if you’re just trying to enhance texture—just don’t gouge the surface.

A Key Step: Water-Popping

One major takeaway from Austen’s demo is that moisture is your friend when wire brushing. Applying the technique while the wood is damp (not soaked) allows the grain to absorb water, swell slightly, and become easier to work with.

This is similar to a water-popping process before staining—by raising the grain, you give the brush something to dig into, maximizing texture without damaging the floor.

Want to See It in Action?

Catch the full demonstration with Austen Kreie on our YouTube channel: Watch the Wire Brush Technique Demo Here

It’s packed with real-time tips and insights that’ll help you deliver standout floors your clients will love.

Whether you’re looking to expand your service offerings or refine your finishing techniques, wire brushing is a simple yet effective way to elevate the look and feel of your hardwood floors. Stop by City Floor Supply to check out our selection of wire brushes, machines, and finishes—and be sure to follow us on YouTube for more pro tips from the field.