How to Sand Hardwood Floors Before Refinishing: Expert Tips for a Smooth, Durable Finish

Proper sanding is the foundation of a beautiful hardwood floor refinishing project. Whether you’re working on oak, maple, or pine, sanding removes old finishes and imperfections, preparing your floors for staining or sealing. This SEO-optimized guide walks you through choosing the right sandpaper grits and techniques to sand hardwood floors effectively before refinishing.

Why Sand Hardwood Floors Before Refinishing?

Sanding smooths the surface, removes scratches, and ensures the stain or finish absorbs evenly for a professional look.

Best Sandpaper Grits for Hardwood Floor Sanding

• 36–60 grit sandpaper: For removing old finish and leveling.
• 80–100 grit sandpaper: For smoothing and removing scratches.
• 120–150 grit sandpaper: For final smoothing before staining or sealing.

Step-by-Step: How to Sand Hardwood Floors

1. Clear the room and vacuum floors thoroughly.
2. Start sanding with coarse grit (36–60) using a floor sander.
3. Progress to medium grit (80–100) to smooth scratches.
4. Finish with fine grit (120–150) for a polished surface.
5. Vacuum and wipe floors clean before applying stain or finish.

Tips for Effective Floor Sanding

• Use edge sanders or hand sanding for corners and tight spaces.
• Sand with the grain to avoid scratching.
• Wear protective gear and work in a ventilated area.

FAQs

• Can I sand hardwood floors by hand? Yes, but it’s time-consuming and best for small areas.
• How often should floors be sanded? Typically every 7–10 years depending on wear.

Watch & Learn

Shop the best sanding sheets for floors at eQualle and learn more DIY flooring tips on our blog.