The Ultimate Guide to Wood Floorboard Sanding: 10 Essential Tips for Success

Wooden floorboards have a timeless charm that can give any space an air of sophistication and warmth. However, to maintain their beauty, it is essential to look after them properly. One of the crucial steps in maintaining wooden floors is sanding, which can restore their original appearance and extend their lifespan. In this blog post, we will discuss ten essential things you must do to look after your wood floorboard sanding, ensuring your floors remain in tip-top condition for years to come.

1. Choose the right sanding equipment.

To get the best results from your wood floorboard sanding, it’s crucial to use the right equipment. A drum sander and an edging sander are the most commonly used tools for this task. A drum sander covers large areas, while an edging sander works on smaller spaces and edges. Make sure to use high-quality sanding machines with variable speed settings and dust extraction features to minimise mess and achieve a smooth finish.

2. Select the appropriate sandpaper grit:

Choosing the correct sandpaper grit is essential for successful wood floorboard sanding. Start with a coarse grit (40 or 60) to remove old finishes, stains, and scratches. Gradually move to medium grit (80) to smooth out the wood and prepare it for the final stage. Finish with a fine grit (100 to 120) to achieve a smooth and even surface. Using the right grit sequence will help avoid swirl marks and ensure a professional-looking result.

3. Prepare the floor:

Before starting the sanding process, it’s essential to prepare your wood floorboards. Remove any furniture, rugs, and other items from the room. Thoroughly clean the floor using a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or nails that may damage the sanding equipment. Fill any gaps or cracks in the floorboards with a suitable wood filler and allow it to dry completely.

4. Sand with the grain:

To avoid cross-grain scratches and achieve a uniform finish, always sand in the direction of the wood grain. Start with the drum sander for large areas and move methodically across the room, overlapping each pass slightly. Once the main area is complete, use the edging sander to work on the perimeter and any tight spaces.

5. Keep the sanding machines moving.

It’s crucial not to let the sanding machines sit in one spot for too long, as this can cause uneven results or damage to your wood floorboards. Keep the machines moving at a steady pace, applying even pressure throughout the sanding process. This will ensure consistent results and prevent any gouges or dips in the floor.

6. Vacuum between sanding stages:

To achieve a smooth and even finish, it’s essential to remove any dust and debris between each sanding stage. Vacuum the floor thoroughly after each pass with the sanders, paying particular attention to corners and edges. This will help prevent dust particles from becoming trapped under the final finish and ensure a flawless result.

7. Apply a wood conditioner.

After completing the sanding process, it’s advisable to apply a wood conditioner to your floorboards. This product helps to even out the wood’s porosity, ensuring a consistent and uniform absorption of the stain or finish. Apply the wood conditioner according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let it dry before proceeding with staining or finishing.

8. Choose the right stain and finish.

Selecting the appropriate stain and finish for your wood floorboards is crucial for achieving a beautiful and long-lasting result. Oil-based stains offer deeper penetration and longer-lasting colour, while water-based stains dry more quickly and have lower VOC levels. When it comes to finishes, polyurethane, varnish, and hardwax oils are popular choices for their durability and protection. Consider factors such as the desired colour, sheen, and environmental impact when making your selection.