How to Sand Hardwood Floors Using DIY Methods

Wood floors have an undeniable charm that can, without a doubt, highlight any decor. To showcase its entire potential, sometimes after years of wear, restoring it is the only route ahead. So, how can you conceal scratches and deep gouges and years' worth of foot traffic? well, sanding your hardwood floors will definitely restore their former shine.

What are the general guidelines for sanding hardwood floors? What tools and techniques should be used to carry out this task successfully? Discover the key steps (as well as some pro tips) for flawless sanding and refinishing.

DIY Project Guide: How to Sand or Restore Old Hardwood Floors

Floor Sanding Toolkit

Note that all tools and equipment can be purchased at your local home improvement store.

• Belt sander

• Sandpaper (different grits depending on coating)

• Retracting knife

• Putty knife

• Crowbar/pry bar

• Protective mask

• Safety goggles

How to Prepare for Floor Sanding

The first step of your floor sanding project consists of removing all furniture across the floor, and then pulling the baseboard moulding off the wall using a crowbar or pry bar. This is a rather tricky undertaking, so make sure to do so without haste. Start with a corner baseboard, one that forms an angle where two walls meet. With the help of a knife with a retracting blade, pull back the top half of the baseboard from the wall. Then, insert the entire blade behind the baseboard to peel back the glue adhering it to the wall.  

Now, grab a putty knife (ideally a small one) and insert it between the baseboard and the wall. Then, use a second putty knife, and insert it atop the first one, bending it away from the former at a 45-degree angle. Afterwards, grab a crowbar, place it between the two putty knives and pull it towards you to peel the baseboard off the wall. 

Keep going until all skirting boards are peeled off the walls. Before moving on to the next step, remove all nails or staples from the floor’s surface.

What Is the Best Way to Sand a Wood Floor: Step-by-Step Instructions

The first official step of sanding work is done using a belt sander fitted with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper. You can also start with a coarser sandpaper (40-grit) if you deem the flooring especially damaged. 

After sanding the middle portion of the floor, start sanding the perimeter of the space using an orbit sander. Since this device operates clockwise, sand from left to right. As soon as you see that the sandpaper is losing its efficiency (this also applies to the belt sander), take a break and switch out the sandpaper for a new one. Lastly, use a corner sander to buff corners. Don’t apply too much pressure on the sanders, as doing so may damage your flooring.

What Grit Sandpaper for Hardwood Flooring Refinishing?

After the first pass, additional sanding may be required, so adhere to the above-mentioned steps, but switch out the sandpaper for a different grit. Use 100-grit sandpaper for the second coat. For the third pass, use 120-grit sandpaper. Note that sanding the surface a fourth time may be required, but not necessary. For those looking to carry out professional-like efforts, note that the last sanding efforts should be done using an orbit sander fitted with 150-grit sandpaper. 

A Few Pointers When Sanding Hardwood Floors…

Note that sanding floorboards that are less than three millimetres thick can be risky. Indeed, doing so could crack the planks. To avoid such an outcome, ask a professional if you’re unsure as to whether your flooring can be sandblasted.

Note that the sanding time will be cut short if you’re working with softwood (such as spruce) and much longer if working with solid wood, such as hardwood. As such, consider a few precautionary measures when planning out your sanding project and, when in doubt, call in a professional.

How Hard Is It to Sand a Floor?

Floor sanding isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially if you’re a novice. But, it’s not unfeasible if you have the right tools on hand and the proper guidelines to refer back to. Here are some handy pointers to help guide you along:

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the wood grain, not against it

• Don’t idle with your sander in one spot, doing so risks digging into the wood

• Lift the sander's barrel whenever changing direction to avoid marking the wood

Proper Ventilation Makes for a Hazard-Free Zone

• Seal the area with plastic sheeting to prevent dust from the sanding operation from spreading

• If need be, shut off your central ventilation system to prevent clogging the ducts

• Buy a protective mask to avoid inhaling dust while working

• Make sure the room is well-ventilated

How Much Does It Cost to Sand Wood Floors?

If you choose the DIY project route, sanding your floors will cost you the price of renting a sander, so budget between $50–$100 per day. Should you choose to hire a professional to execute the work, budget roughly $3–$6 per square foot.

How to Refinish Hardwood Floors—Rundown 

Here are some articles to peruse for more useful information about hardwood flooring:

• How to Install Hardwood Floors

• Choosing a Varnish for Your Wood Floors

• Price Guide: Flooring Materials