Refinishing Wooden Floors: Hand Sanding for Edges and Tight Spots

When refinishing hardwood floors, power sanders handle the broad areas—but what about corners, edges, and under radiators? These tight spaces demand precision hand sanding for a seamless blend. This guide explains how to sand hardwood edges effectively using the right grits, tools, and techniques for professional-level results.

Why Hand Sand Floor Edges

Large drum or orbital floor sanders can’t reach corners and wall edges, leaving visible contrast lines if untreated. Hand sanding ensures the perimeter matches the main floor’s texture and sheen. Using proper grit progression keeps color tone consistent across the entire surface.

Tools & Materials

• Foam sanding block or edge sander attachment
• Dust mask and vacuum with brush nozzle
• Clean rags and mineral spirits (for wiping dust)
• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper: 80 Grit (25-pack), 150 Grit (50-pack), and 220 Grit (100-pack).

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Removes old finish and levels minor scratches or stains.
• 150 grit: Smooths wood fibers and prepares for finish coats.
• 220 grit: Final smoothing before applying sealant or polyurethane.

Step-by-Step: Hand Sanding Floor Edges

1. Vacuum and inspect. Remove all dirt, nails, and debris from corners and edges. Clean surfaces prevent deep gouges.
2. Start with 80 Grit (25-pack). Sand along the grain to strip away old finish. Apply steady, moderate pressure and keep strokes long and even.
3. Switch to 150 Grit (50-pack). Blend sanded edges with the surrounding floor, reducing visible transition lines. This stage evens color tone and texture.
4. Finish with 220 Grit (100-pack). Sand lightly for final smoothness before sealing. Wipe with a damp rag to remove fine dust before applying finish.
5. Inspect under light. Use angled lighting to catch any shiny spots or missed finish residue. Re-sand lightly if necessary.

Special Cases

For antique floors or softwoods like pine, skip 80 grit and start with 100 grit to avoid gouging. In tight corners, wrap sandpaper around a putty knife or small block for control. If the main floor was stained, test your edge-sanded area before applying finish to ensure color match.

Pro Tips

• Sand edges before the final overall sanding pass to blend transitions perfectly.
• Keep strokes parallel to the grain—cross-grain scratches stand out under finish.
• Vacuum thoroughly between each grit to avoid regrinding old dust.
• Use a bright flashlight to spot uneven sheen or remaining finish film.

Aftercare

• After sealing, allow at least 24 hours of cure before walking on floors.
• Attach felt pads to furniture to avoid fresh scratches.
• Clean with hardwood-safe products only—avoid ammonia or vinegar-based cleaners.
• Recoat every few years to maintain depth and protection.

FAQs

• Can I hand sand an entire floor? Technically yes, but it’s labor-intensive—best for touch-ups or small rooms.
• Do I need to wet sand wood floors? No—dry sanding is standard. Wet sanding may swell wood fibers and cause uneven finish absorption.
• How do I prevent visible transition lines? Overlap your hand-sanded area slightly into the machine-sanded section using the same grit sequence.

Watch & Learn

Using 80 Grit (25-pack), 150 Grit (50-pack), and 220 Grit (100-pack) ensures your hand-sanded edges blend seamlessly with machine-sanded floors—leaving your hardwood with a consistent, professional finish from wall to wall.