You have decided to sand your floorboards and give them a new lease of life. Excellent choice! Floor sanding Melbourne is a great way to update the look of your home without having to replace the entire floor.
But it’s also a big job, and if it needs to be done correctly, you could end up with a floor that’s worse off than before.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide on how to master the art of floor sanding. We’ll cover everything from the types of sandpaper you should use to the order in which you should apply the coats of varnish.
By following our tips and techniques, you’ll be able to achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years.
What Is Timber Floor Sanding?
Timber floor sanding is the process of removing the top layer of wood from your floor using a belt sander or drum sander. This is usually done to restore the floor to its former glory or to prepare it for a new finish.
Floor sanding can be challenging, but with the right advice and some practice, you’ll be able to do it like a pro. In this article, we’ll run through the essential tips and techniques you need to know to get the job done right.
Types of Techniques for Floor Sanding
There are three main techniques you can use for floor sanding – dry, wet and combination.
Dry sanding is the most commonly used technique. It’s fast and efficient, and it’s great for removing the top layer of finish from your floor.
Wet sanding is a more meticulous process, but it results in a smoother finish. And combination sanding is a bit of both – it’s great for areas that need more attention, like high-traffic zones or areas with scratches or dents.
Knowing which technique to use in each situation can make a big difference in the overall outcome of your floor sanding project.
Sanding Tips
Now that you know the basics of floor sanding, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty and learn some tips and techniques to help you along the way.
- Always sand along the grain of the wood. This will help ensure a smooth finish.
- Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a fine grit. This will help achieve a smooth, polished surface.
- If you’re working in a large area, work in small sections to avoid fatigue.
- Use a dust mask and goggles to protect your lungs and eyes from debris.
- Be patient! Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your floor won’t be sanded in 30 minutes, either.
Finishing Your Work With a Professional Polish
Finishing your floor sanding project is the key to making sure your floor looks its best. In this step, you’ll be giving it a professional polish that will bring out its beauty and, more importantly, help protect it from wear and tear.
To start, you’ll need to use a high-quality polish designed specifically for wooden floors. Apply a thin coat of the polish with a cloth and then buff it until it’s nice and smooth. A buffing pad can also be used for extra shine. Once you’ve applied the polish to the entire surface of the floor, let it dry for 10-15 minutes before walking on it.
This final step of polishing will help lock in shine and add durability to your newly sanded floors – plus, your home will look like a million bucks!
So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, make sure you keep the following tips and techniques in mind when the floor sanding Melbourne—you’ll be glad you did!