Floor Refinishing: 36?60?100?150 Grit Sequence

Wood floors wear down with scratches, stains, and dullness. The professional way to revive them is a structured sanding sequence: 36 ? 60 ? 100 ? 150 grit. Each grit removes defects from the last, flattening, smoothing, and prepping the surface for stain and finish.

Why Sanding Sequence Matters

Starting too fine won’t remove scratches; skipping steps leaves swirl marks that show through finish. A coarse-to-fine grit ladder ensures even removal and a smooth base that absorbs stain consistently and holds finish evenly.

Tools & Materials

• Drum or belt floor sander
• Edger or palm sander for edges and corners
• 9×11 in sandpaper sheets: 36, 60, 100, 150 grit
• Vacuum and tack cloths
• Wood filler (if gaps or cracks)
• Stain and finish (polyurethane or oil)
• PPE: ear protection, respirator, knee pads

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 36 grit — Removes old finish, deep scratches, and levels boards.
• 60 grit — Smooths rough cut, erases 36 grit marks.
• 100 grit — Refines surface, preps for stain.
• 150 grit — Final smooth before finish.

Step-by-Step: Refinishing Floors

1. Prep room. Remove furniture, cover vents, and seal doors to control dust.
2. First cut at 36 grit. Sand diagonally across boards with 36 grit (25-pack) to remove finish and flatten surface.
3. Smooth at 60 grit. Switch to 60 grit (50-pack). Sand with the grain until scratches fade.
4. Refine at 100 grit. Move to 100 grit (100-pack). Surface should now feel smooth and ready for color.
5. Final pass at 150 grit. Use 150 grit (25-pack) for even smoothness and proper finish adhesion.
6. Vacuum thoroughly. Remove all dust with vacuum and tack cloths before staining.
7. Apply stain & finish. Work in sections, following wood grain. Apply multiple coats as needed.

Special Cases

Old painted floors: May require starting coarser (24 grit).
Parquet: Sand diagonally across patterns to avoid unevenness.
Engineered floors: Only lightly sand—thin veneer can be sanded through.

Pro Tips

• Don’t linger with drum sander—keep it moving to avoid divots.
• Always vacuum between grit changes to avoid contamination.
• Sand edges with edger to match main field grit progression.
• Finish sanding with the grain for consistent look.
• Test stain on hidden area first—wood species vary in absorption.

Aftercare

• Wait recommended cure time before moving furniture back.
• Use felt pads on furniture to prevent scratches.
• Maintain with gentle cleaners—avoid harsh chemicals.

FAQs

• Can I skip 100 grit? No—jumping leaves sanding marks visible under finish.
• Do I need to remove baseboards? Not always, but edging is easier with them off.
• Why finish at 150? Coarser leaves swirl marks, finer can reduce stain absorption.
• How long does sanding take? Average room: 4–6 hours including prep and cleanup.

Video: Floor Sanding Guide

Closing: Fresh floors depend on proper sanding. With 36 ? 60 ? 100 ? 150 grit, you’ll strip away years of wear and prep a perfect base for stunning stain and durable finish.