What’s involved in the timber floor sanding process?

Timber floor sanding is a process that involves removing the top surface of a wooden floor using abrasive materials. It is a common practice in Australia, as it helps to restore the natural beauty of timber floors and extend their lifespan.

There are several reasons why homeowners choose to sand their timber floors. One of the main reasons is to remove scratches, dents, and other imperfections that can accumulate over time. Sanding can also be used to remove old finishes, such as wax or polyurethane, that may have become yellowed or dull.

In addition to improving the appearance of the floor, sanding can also help to protect the wood from damage. By removing the top layer of the wood, sanding exposes the fresh, undamaged wood beneath, which can then be sealed and protected with a new finish. This helps to prevent moisture, dirt, and other contaminants from penetrating the wood, which can cause it to rot or become discoloured.

There are several different methods of sanding a timber floor, including hand sanding, orbital sanding, and drum sanding. Each method has its own pros and cons, and the most appropriate method will depend on the condition of the floor and the desired finish.

Hand sanding is the most basic method of timber floor sanding. It involves using a sandpaper wrapped around a block of wood to manually sand the floor. This method is best suited for small areas or for sanding tight corners and edges.

Orbital sanding, also known as random orbital sanding, involves using an electric sander that rotates in a random pattern. This method is faster and more efficient than hand sanding, and it is suitable for sanding large areas. However, it can leave swirl marks on the floor, which may need to be sanded out by hand afterwards.

Drum sanding is the most aggressive method of sanding a timber floor. It involves using a large drum sander, which rotates in a fixed pattern and is pulled along the length of the floor. This method is suitable for heavy duty sanding, such as when removing multiple layers of old finish or when sanding floorboards that are extremely rough or uneven. However, it is also the most difficult method to control, and it can be easy to sand through the top layer of the wood if the sander is not used properly.

Before considering timber floor sanding, it is important to prepare the room by removing all furniture, rugs, and other items from the floor. The floor should also be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with the sanding process.

Once the room is prepared, the sanding process can begin. The first step is to sand the floor with a rough grit sandpaper, such as 36 grit, to remove the top layer of the wood and any imperfections. This is followed by sanding with progressively finer grits, such as 60 grit, 80 grit, and 120 grit, to smooth out the surface and prepare it for staining or finishing.

After the floor has been sanded, it is important to vacuum and wipe down the surface to remove any dust or debris. This will ensure that the floor is clean and ready for staining or finishing.

Staining a timber floor involves applying a coloured finish to the wood to enhance its natural beauty and character. There are many different types of wood stains available, including oil-based stains, water-based stains, and gel stains. Each type of stain has its own unique properties, and the most appropriate type will depend on the condition of the wood and the desired finish.

After the stain has been applied, it is important to allow it to dry.

If you would like a quote for your next timber floor sanding project the Beaches Timber Floors Sydney team are on call 5 days per week for a free measure and quote for your project – reach out to them today on 0401 184 444 or email