The idea for Leather Floor Protectors (Sherwood, Ore.)—the maker of small furniture pads designed to help protect finished wood floors from damage—grew out of a desire to use quality leather pieces left over from guitar strap production. Rather than discard that material, the company with roots in the music, footwear and motorcycle industries decided to put it to good use. The pads feature a peel-and-stick application with an industrial-grade adhesive for easy installation.
The protectors are intended as an alternative to traditional felt pads commonly used under chairs, stools, tables, furniture and appliances placed on finished floors. Leather naturally resists compression and maintains its shape under weight, according to company officials, which helps distribute loads and reduce risk of scratching and scuffing. Compared to felt, they added, leather holds up longer over time and provides a light grip that keeps furniture stable while still allowing it to slide.
“This was not about launching another mass-produced, overseas-sourced furniture pad,” said Nate DeHart, founder of Leather Floor Protectors. “We kept seeing felt pads fail too quickly. We wanted a solution that would continue protecting the floor long after the installer leaves the job.”
All Leather Floor Protectors products are manufactured using leather offcuts from guitar strap production at StrapGraphics, a custom guitar strap maker. For wood flooring contractors and installers, DeHart said the pads offer a simple option for protecting newly finished floors and reducing callbacks. Leather Floor Protectors is currently expanding availability within the wood flooring (and broader flooring) industry.
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