Sanding Wooden Floors Between Finish Coats: Pro-Level Smoothness

When refinishing hardwood floors, applying multiple coats of polyurethane or varnish is essential for durability. But sanding lightly between coats is what makes the finish smooth, glossy, and professional. This guide explains how to sand between floor finish coats for flawless results.

Why Sand Between Finish Coats?

Each coat leaves behind tiny dust particles, bubbles, or brush marks. Light sanding levels imperfections and gives the next coat something to grip, ensuring a long-lasting, silky finish. Without sanding, coats can peel or dry unevenly.

Tools You’ll Need

• Floor sanding sheets (220–400 grit)
• Pole sander or sanding block
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Polyurethane or floor varnish
• Protective gloves, goggles, and mask

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 220 grit: First sanding after the base coat.
• 320 grit: Smooth mid-coats for even layering.
• 400 grit: Final sanding before the last topcoat.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Floors Between Coats

1. Apply the first coat. Let it dry per manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Lightly sand with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (25-pack) to dull the surface and remove raised grain.
3. Vacuum and wipe. Remove dust before recoating.
4. Apply the second coat. Brush or roll evenly across the floor.
5. Smooth with 320 grit. Use 320 grit (50-pack) sheets once cured.
6. Final sanding with 400 grit. Use 400 grit (100-pack) before the last coat for a pro-level finish.
7. Apply the topcoat. Allow full curing before moving furniture back.

Special Cases

For water-based finishes, sanding is more critical since they raise wood fibers more than oil-based products. For high-gloss looks, sanding each coat thoroughly is the only way to achieve a mirror finish.

Pro Tips

• Always sand lightly—just enough to dull the sheen, not cut through coats.
• Use a pole sander for large areas to keep pressure even.
• Work in sections and clean as you go to reduce dust contamination.

Aftercare

• Allow floors to cure fully (up to 7 days) before heavy use.
• Place felt pads under furniture to avoid scratches.
• Clean floors with wood-safe cleaners only.

FAQs

• Can I skip sanding between coats? Not recommended—it reduces adhesion and smoothness.
• Do I need to wet sand floors? No, always dry sand for wood floors.
• What grit before the final coat? 400 grit is best for a silky smooth finish.

Watch & Learn

Sanding between floor finish coats ensures a silky, durable, and pro-grade result. Stock up on floor sanding sheets—available in packs of 25, 50, and 100. Shop floor sanding sheets here.