Process of Floor sanding

Floor sanding is actually the process of having the top surfaces of the wooden floor removed by the method of sanding with the help of abrasive materials. You can easily sand different types of floor materials which include cork, timber, particleboard and parquet. Some of the floors are designed and laid for sanding. Even older floors are sanded once the former coverings are taken off and appropriate wood is present beneath. Floor sanding involves 3 stages, namely, preparation, sanding and in coating with the assistance of a protective sealant. 

Stages involved in floor sanding

The first stage involved in the floor sanding process is preparation. The nails which seem to protrude above the wooden boards are beaten down. However, care needs to be maintained, as the nails could severely damage the floor sanding machines that are used. Tacks or staples used for tightening the previous coverings are removed in order to reduce the chances of damage. 

Sanding starts after the preparation of the floor. The first cut begins by using coarse grit papers for removing the old coatings and for making the floor flat. The variables in the heights between the boards that are found are removed. The common paper used for the first cut is 40 grit. Large sanders are used for floor sanding the areas that are not reachable in far off areas. Filling of the holes is done at this juncture. Papers of 80 grits are used for doing the second cut. Then a finishing machine for creating the last finish is used and the grit paper that is used depends on the personal preference and the commonly used are 100 to 150 grit papers. 

The sanded floors are then coated with various sealants, oils or polyurethane. However, some are considered to be poisonous and hence, an appropriate face mask is highly recommended. 

Machines involved in sanding

Almost all of the current sanding jobs are done with specialized floor sanding machines. Most of the materials are removed by drum sanders or huge belts. However, there are some areas like the corners, stairs and edges where the huge sanders do not reach. For final sanding, finishing machines are used.

Tips to safe floor sanding

Many people have the tendency to think that polishing and sanding is an easy process and could be done by them without much trouble. But the fact is that floor sanding is a hazardous process and might impact the health of your family. This is why, you are strongly recommended to hire experienced and reliable sanding experts with proven credentials.

A Guide to Floor Sanding

Wooden floors look elegant and natural. However; if you want them to stay that way for a long time, you must employ certain maintenance measures to take care of them. One great way to preserve your wood floor is to subject it to regular sanding. Here’s a quick look at what floor sanding entails. 

Defects can cause serious damage to the floor and make it less durable. Sanding can help you avoid this by taking care of dents; loose wooden planks and other cracks that may appear with time. If you don’t use it; your floor could become shabby in appearance and damaged beyond repair before too long. 

The Sanding process offers many benefits for your wooden flooring. For starters, it can bring back the shine and make the wood look as good as new. So any luster lost due to day to day wear and tear and cleaning is instantly regained. It can also help keep the floor intact and protected for the long run. The sealing part of the process prevents water from seeping into the floor and also keeps the floor free of mildew, fungal infections and general dirt and dust. If you do it regularly enough; you may even be saved from having to spend more money to replace your flooring. 

Furthermore, with the emphasis on eco friendly measures around the world; you may want to use sanding to do your bit. Floor sanding is considered to be an environmentally sustainable measure.  It’s a great recycling process that allows you to maintain existing material (read: wood) in your home and refurbish it for future use. This flooring type can last for hundreds of years with proper care and maintenance. 

There are various ways to get sanding done for your wooden floor. You could try doing it by hand; use floor sanding equipment or hire a professional company to do it for you. If you choose to do it by hand, you will need a sand block and sand paper for the task. The sand block will allow you to grasp the paper more efficiently. 

If you’re using sanding equipment; you can choose between small pad sanders and belt sanders. Make your decision according to your floor condition. If you’re unsure, do consult with flooring professional for the same.

If you’ve decided to hire a floor sanding company; always remember to check for references first. Ask them for a client list and get in touch with them to find out about how good the services really are. Also check for the materials they use, their staff and their ability to meet deadlines before you make a decision.