Floor sanding is one of the best ways to maintain beautiful wood floors and makes them easier to keep clean – meaning less dust, and thus fewer allergies for users.
Once upon a time, sanding meant going all the way back down to bare wood; today however, many floors can be revitalized through screening – an alternative which is faster, cheaper, and much less messy than traditional sanding methods.
Choosing the right sandpaper
When sanding your wood floor, the appropriate type of sandpaper will ensure a job well done and desired results.
Each grit size carries unique advantages and uses, and your choice will depend on factors like species of wood used and finish type being applied; typically standard practice recommends making cuts with coarse-grit sandpaper before transitioning to medium and fine grit papers for best results.
Selecting the ideal sandpaper is one of the key components of floor refinishing, so take care when making your selection. Preferably, test out various samples before beginning work; additionally, keep in mind the size and compatibility of your sanding machine when selecting grades of sandpaper. You can visit this site for more information.
Before beginning sanding, it’s also necessary to prepare your home. Before getting started, remove all furniture from the room and secure any loose items to protect them from being sanded by accident.
To properly prepare a sanded surface for its new finish, it is important to fill any gouges or holes with wood putty before sanding with medium-grit sandpaper. Next you should sand around all edges and corners up to baseboards using hand sanders fitted with either 40- or 60-grit paper and use paint scrapers in tight spaces if any old finish remains; you could also rent special sanders equipped with flat heads designed specifically to get into tight spaces.
Getting the right equipment
Before beginning to sand your floor, ensure you have the appropriate equipment. A good dust collector is essential in order to avoid health risks caused by breathing in wood dust, while face and eye protection should also be worn during operation of your machine. You should also have someone alongside to assist in lifting and moving it when necessary.
As the main component of this job, it is best to employ a large floor sander; edgers or hand sanders may be helpful for narrow areas or edges of rooms.
Finding one suitable to the size and species of wood that needs sanding will ensure a consistent finish; additionally, selecting one with appropriate grit may vary according to species and age of wood used; you can purchase various forms of sanding equipment from hardware stores near your location.
An essential step when sanding floors is making sure they are free from debris and other potentially abrasive material, particularly if refinishing them with new colors or stains. By carefully clearing away all carpeting, rugs and nail holes prior to beginning your sanding session, your new finish should appear neat and seamless.
Before beginning work on your floors, it is also a wise idea to test their moisture. Moisture levels can increase the chance of cupping and warping; therefore it is vital that a moisture meter be on hand – this tool will let you know if wood saturation has taken place and cannot absorb more stain or finish. You can click the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DUcteBbucM to learn more.
Getting the right person
Prepping wood floors for refinishing requires floor sanding. While some companies claim they can avoid this step altogether, hiring experienced professionals like floor sanding Brisbane, that also has proven results and an impeccable track record is key to the project’s success. Be sure to ask for samples of their work as proof.
A skilled sander will understand how to operate their machinery safely, following instructions for each piece of equipment they’re operating. A dust extractor will be utilized in order to minimize airborne dust which can damage furniture and cause respiratory problems; they’ll also ensure their sanding machine works without leaving chatter marks behind.
When hiring a sanding professional, ask about their credentials and experience. Determine their duration of business as well as number of completed projects. Inquire whether they are licensed and insured so as to avoid potential liability in case of accidents.
Before beginning the sanding process, it’s essential to clear out a room completely and remove base shoe moldings so the edge sander has an unobstructed path around walls. Also use plastic sheeting on doorways and vent ducts so dust doesn’t spread throughout your home from sanding dust.
Hiring a professional who uses an advanced, “dustless” sanding system may also be beneficial. This machine features a hose connected to an internal containment tank for continuous vacuuming of dust generated during sanding; this helps minimize airborne dust emissions during refinishing while making cleanup much simpler and reducing time spent and dust accumulation in your home.
Once sanding has taken place, selecting an ideal finish for your hardwood floors is of vital importance. Choose between durable lacquer, polyurethane, classic oil and wax combination or eco-friendly natural finishes – each can create beautiful yet long-term lasting floors. Selecting an appropriate one can ensure stunning and long-term beauty!
Getting the right finish
To ensure your hardwood floor lasts as long as possible, it is vitally important that it has the appropriate finish. Not only will this protect your investment and maintain the aesthetics of the floor for many years to come; there are various options available when it comes to finishing wood floors; which one best fits depends on several factors like wear and tear on your floor.
Sandpaper should always be of high quality for optimal sanding results; make sure to follow a standard sequence when making cuts. In general, start with coarse-grit paper before proceeding through medium and fine grits for subsequent cuts – but consult your package of sandpaper for any specific instructions on use.
Sanding wood floors may be a messy business, but it is worth your while in the end. Sanding is significantly less expensive than replacing your floor, and will add an elegant touch to any home.
