Hardwood floors create warmth and elegance in any home. As time and wear begin to take their toll, you can rejuvenate tired floors by using the proper power tools and techniques. From sanding to refinishing, here’s how to get great results.  

How to Choose the Perfect Sander for Your Floors

Sanding is the most critical step to refinish a hardwood floor successfully. Before adding a new stain and sealer, you’ll need to choose the right machine to prepare the entire surface.

A drum sander is the fastest, most powerful solution. Utilizing a sandpaper sleeve attached to a rotating drum, it works fast to remove large amounts of material from the existing surface. However, so much power can be difficult to use with precision. Inexperienced craftsman risk causing damage to the boards.

Belt sanders are also powerful, using a rotating, tread-like belt to rapidly grind down wood. Do-it-yourselfers may choose to use an orbital sander power tool instead.

Standard orbital sanders oscillate a sandpaper disk in a circular motion, often leaving behind swirl patterns in the wood. To eliminate those residual swirls, random orbital sanders utilize an elliptical motion that also moves rapidly side-to-side.

How to Properly Sand Your Floors

No matter which sander you choose, you’ll need to use the correct sandpaper at every step. Begin sanding with a heavy grain that’s capable of removing the old finish and any surface damage. From there,  you’ll change to finer grains with each pass.

Before turning on the power tool, plan your start and finish areas. You may want to begin at the center of the room and work outward, or sand in rows like mowing a lawn. Either way, experiment in a small practice area first.

Tilt the machine back before starting. Move slowly and steadily, making certain that each pass overlaps to avoid missed spots. Use a hand sander or edger for tight corners and nooks. When the entire floor is smooth, vacuum to prepare for finishing. Choose a wood stain with sealer to color the floor to your taste. Apply several coats as directed. Then apply a urethane finish to complete your new floor for lasting luster and durability. 

Looking for quality power tools to get a project done right? Schulhoff Equipment Rental & Sales in Cincinnati, OH, is your one-stop-shop for equipment and supplies to finish the job quickly and affordably. Their inventory includes leading brands from Bosch® to STIHL® available for rent and purchase. They also offer exceptional customer support at every step. Call (513) 961-1122 to speak with a helpful service associate, or visit them online to explore their huge inventory.