Should I sand my floors myself?
Are your timber floorboards looking a little worse for wear and you’re wanting to sand them? But you’re unsure if you can tackle this yourself?
The guaranteed way to ensure you’re achieving the best results when sanding a floor is to hire a professional who has the necessary experience and equipment. However, if you’re wanting to do the task yourself, we’ve outlined the common mistakes people make when sanding floors - to help you avoid these!
Common floor sanding mistakes
Not Preparing Your Floors
Before starting, it's crucial to prepare your floor correctly. This includes removing furniture, nails, or other objects that could interfere with the sanding equipment. Neglecting to prepare your floor can lead to incomplete or uneven sanding.
Not Sanding Enough
Failing to sand the floor enough can result in an uneven or rough surface. It's essential to remove all of your old finish and level any uneven areas.
Over-Sanding
Over-sanding occurs when too much material is removed from the timber surface, leading to a thinner floor and potentially exposing nails or creating unevenness. It's crucial to be mindful of how much material is being removed as you work.
Using the Wrong Sandpaper Grit
Different sandpaper grits are used for different stages of floor sanding. Starting with too coarse of a grit or using too fine of a grit too early in the process can lead to subpar results. It's important to follow the recommended sandpaper grit sequence to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Skipping sandpaper grits can also cause issues. Each grit level is designed to gradually smooth the surface and remove the scratches from the previous grit. Skipping a grit can leave deep scratches that are difficult to remove in subsequent stages.
Poor Sanding Technique
Incorrect sanding techniques can result in visible marks or unevenness on your floors. Common mistakes include applying too much pressure on the sander, sanding in a single direction only, or not maintaining a consistent pace while sanding.
Excess Dust
Floor sanding produces a significant amount of dust, which can spread throughout your home if proper dust containment measures are not taken. Failing to use adequate dust collection systems or not sealing off adjacent rooms can result in a messy and time-consuming cleanup.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional floor sander?
They’re Experienced - They Sand Floors Day In, Day Out!
Professional floor sanders have the knowledge, skills, and experience to handle different types of floors and understand the intricacies of the sanding process. They are familiar with various wood species, different finishes, and can assess the condition of your floor to determine the best approach for optimal results.
You’ll Receive Quality Results
Professional floor sanders will be equipped with high-quality tools and equipment that are up-to-date and industry standard. They know how to achieve a smooth and even finish, remove scratches, and level the floor surface effectively. With their expertise, they can deliver a high-quality result that enhances the appearance and durability of your floor.
Less Dust
Professional floor sanders use advanced dust containment systems to minimise the spread of dust throughout your home. They have powerful vacuum systems attached to their sanding equipment, reducing the amount of dust generated during the sanding process. This helps maintain a cleaner and healthier environment during and after the sanding job.
There will be Insurance and Guarantees
Reputable professional floor sanders typically carry liability insurance, which provides protection against any accidental damage that may occur during the sanding process. Additionally, many professionals offer guarantees or warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind that if any issues arise, they will be addressed.
Sydney’s Floor Sanding and Staining Experts
If you have any questions about hiring a professional floor sander and the costs involved, don’t hesitate to contact our team for a chat.
