How to Sand Wooden Flooring Edges for Refinishing (60–220 Grit)

When refinishing wooden floors, the edges near walls and corners are often the most overlooked areas. These spots require careful sanding to blend seamlessly with the main floor surface. Using the right grit sequence ensures a smooth, professional finish.

Why Sand Floor Edges?

Sanding edges removes old finishes, evens out wear, and prepares the wood for stain or seal. Without proper edge sanding, refinished floors may show uneven color or texture where machines can’t reach.

Tools You’ll Need

• Edge sander or hand sander
• Sanding sponges for tight corners
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (60–220 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective mask, goggles, ear protection

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Heavy removal of old finish and scratches.
• 100 grit: General smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 150 grit: Preparing wood for stain or sealer.
• 220 grit: Final smoothing for even absorption and shine.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prep the area. Remove baseboards or tape them off for cleaner results.
2. Start with 60 grit. Use 60 grit (25-pack) for aggressive removal near edges.
3. Refine with 100 grit. Smooth transition areas using 100 grit (100-pack).
4. Prep with 150 grit. Sand edges with 150 grit (50-pack) for even absorption.
5. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for a smooth, touchable finish.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum edges and wipe with tack cloths.
7. Apply finish. Stain or seal the floor, blending edges with main sections.

Special Cases

For older floors with deep gouges, start with coarser grits. For engineered hardwood, avoid grits below 100 to prevent sanding through the veneer.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the wood grain for best results.
• Use sanding sponges for tight corners and against walls.
• Feather sanding strokes into main floor areas for seamless blending.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for durability.

Aftercare

• Clean floors with a damp mop and wood-safe cleaner.
• Use rugs and pads to protect refinished areas.
• Reapply sealers every few years for long-lasting protection.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, for staining. For clear coats, light sanding may be enough.
• Can I sand floor edges by hand? Yes—hand sanding works well for tight corners and small areas.
• What grit is best before sealing? 150–220 grit gives the best results for stain and sealers.

Watch & Learn

Sanding floor edges ensures a consistent, professional refinish. Stock up on extra coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers to make your floor refinishing project a success.