When properly prepared, original wooden floorboards can transform a room. Sanding floorboards is one of the most effective ways to restore tired timber, remove old finishes and create a smooth base ready for staining or sealing.
While sanding may look straightforward, achieving a professional result takes the right approach and the correct tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to sand floorboards properly and explain why hiring professional equipment can make all the difference.
Take a look at our 5 key steps to sanding floorboards below.
1. Is Your Floor Ready for Sanding?
Before you even think about switching on a sander, preparation is key.
Start by removing all furniture, rugs and fixtures from the room. Check the floorboards carefully for protruding nails, screws or staples. These must be punched below the surface to avoid damaging sanding belts.
You will also want to check:
- Are the boards solid wood and not laminate?
- Are there loose or damaged boards that need fixing first?
- Has the floor been painted or heavily varnished in the past?
Taking time at this stage will save you frustration later and help ensure a smooth, even finish.
2. Choosing the Right Sanding Equipment
One of the biggest mistakes DIYers make is using the wrong tools. For floorboards, hand sanders simply won’t cut it. You’ll need:
- A drum or belt floor sander for the main floor area
- An edging sander to tackle skirting boards and corners
- A corner or detail sander for tight spots
Professional floor sanders are powerful, efficient and designed to deliver an even finish without damaging the wood, which is hard to achieve with cheaper machines.
Hiring professional equipment also means:
- Faster results
- Better dust extraction
- Less strain on you
If you’re unsure which machine you need, contact a member of our team who will be happy to advise.
3. Sanding Your Floorboards
Once your equipment is ready, it’s time to sand.
Start coarse and work finer
Begin with a coarse grit, around 24–40 grit, to remove old finishes, paint and surface damage. Always sand in the direction of the floorboards, keeping the sander moving to avoid dips.
Progress through the grits
Gradually work through medium, 60–80 grit, and fine grits, 100–120 grit. Each pass removes the scratches left by the previous grit, creating a smoother surface.
Don’t forget the edges
Use an edging sander around the perimeter of the room where the main sander can’t reach. Blend these areas carefully so the finish looks seamless.
Take your time when it comes to sanding. Rushing this stage can result in uneven results.
4. Managing Dust and Staying Safe
Sanding floorboards creates a lot of dust, but professional equipment makes this far more manageable.
Professional sanders come with built-in dust extraction systems, helping to keep the workspace cleaner and improve air quality. Whilst sanding, ensure you always wear:
- A dust mask
- Eye protection
- Ear defenders
Always ensure the room is well ventilated and keep children and pets at a safe distance until the job is complete.
5. Finishing Touches: Preparing for Sealing or Staining
Once sanding is complete, vacuum the floor thoroughly to remove all dust, including between boards.
At this stage, your floor is ready for:
• Natural oiling
• Staining
• Lacquering or varnishing
Proper sanding ensures these finishes absorb evenly and last longer, giving your floorboards a professional, long-lasting appearance.
Ready to Get Started? Hire the Right Tools with Confidence
Are you renovating a single room? Or restoring floors throughout your home? Hiring quality equipment can save you time, effort and costly mistakes.
At Tool Chest Hire, we are pleased to offer:
- Professional-grade floor sanding equipment
- Flexible hire periods
- Expert advice to help you choose the right tools for your project
Get in touch today or browse our floor sanding equipment range to get your project started the right way.