How Wooden Floor Sanding Is Conducted

Wooden floor sanding is a process used to restore the beauty of wooden floors by removing the top layer of the surface. This reveals a fresh, smooth layer of wood underneath. Here is a step-by-step guide on how it is conducted:

1. Preparation

Before sanding begins, the room must be prepared:

• Furniture and Rugs: Remove all furniture, rugs, and decorations from the room.
• Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the floor to remove dust and debris.
• Repairs: Fix any loose boards, nails, or gaps.

2. Choosing the Right Sandpaper

Sandpaper comes in different grits, which determine how coarse or fine the paper is:

• Coarse Grit (24-36): Used for the first pass to remove old finishes and deep scratches.
• Medium Grit (60-80): Used to smooth out the rough surface.
• Fine Grit (100-120): Used for the final sanding to create a smooth finish.

3. Sanding Process

Sanding is done using a floor sander, which can be rented or purchased:

• Starting with Coarse Grit: Begin sanding with the coarse grit sandpaper, moving in the direction of the wood grain.
• Changing Grits: After the first pass, switch to medium grit sandpaper for the second pass. Finally, use fine grit sandpaper.
• Edge Sanding: Use an edge sander for corners and edges that the main sander can't reach.

4. Cleaning After Sanding

After sanding, it's important to clean the floor again:

• Vacuuming: Remove all dust with a vacuum.
• Tack Cloth: Use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining fine dust particles.

5. Applying Finish

Finally, a finish is applied to protect the wood and enhance its appearance:

• Staining (Optional): If you want to change the color of the wood, apply a stain.
• Sealing: Apply a sealant to protect the wood from moisture and wear.
• Polishing: After the sealant dries, polish the floor to a shine.

6. Drying Time

Allow the finish to dry completely before moving furniture back into the room. This can take several hours to days, depending on the type of finish used.

Following these steps carefully ensures a smooth and durable finish that enhances the natural beauty of your wooden floors