Any tips on sanding floorboards?
Question:I have never done it before and hear it is hard work. Any tips will be very welcome! Anybody waxed the boards instead of varnished too, and if so, how did it go?
Answers:
Hedgehog
Be prepared for lots of mess.
However,you do need to go over every inch of the floor removing tacks and nails and any paint or other residue. Punch down any nails that cannot be removed and sink the heads with a nail punch
Check for splinters that might rip the sanding discs.
Hire 2 sanders. A large one for the main work and a border one to do near the skirtings or around 'obstructions'like pillars or door jambs.Sand along the grain
Tip: after the first passes empty the bag of sawdust that might contain elements of dark sawdust and paint spills. Continue but each time you fill the bag retain the 'clean sawdust' Later on you may wish to use this sawdust mixed into a paste with UPV glue to fill any deep gouges or gaps that would require too much floor to be removed to achieve a smooth finish! This away you will have a filler that is the same colour as the surrounding wood.
It is hard work and messy. But the results can be stunning. I have not used a wax finish so cannot comment on that aspect. I did use a water based varnish that was very quick drying between coats.
As to the advice you got regarding getting someone else to do it I suppose it depends on your budget!!
Good luck whatever you decide
My advice - hire a professional. Been there done that.
If you can, I would get someone else to do it. It is horrible, noisy, hard work. I waxed my floorboards too but it was a paint on wax, so it went on like varnish. Looks lovely!
Seriously get some one in to do it! Its a really messy job! Iv done it! Where abouts are you my mate does that for a living!
use an electric sander, sand in the direcion of the grain.. or hire somebody
Always run WITH the grain of the wood- if it is to be varnished (sealed) before polishing, use an orbital sander, you can hire big floor sanders, and they are worth the effort. Waxing looks good but the finish isn't as permanent as a varnished, fully sealed floor. Waxing does wear through and you tend to notice the high traffic areas- But whatever takes your fancy; try hiring the sander, and the finished product always makes you happy, when you do it yourself!
As everyone has mentioned above. It sucks!
Waxing is alright but it isn't as long lasting.
Hiring a professional can get quite expensive.
If you are really wanting to do it yourself, It may be possible to take some quick lessons from your local Lowe's or home depot when they have those workshop classes.
Also your local rental center might give you some quick tips.
So to reiterate, It sucks a lot, but if you are willing to do it, it can be fulfilling knowing you did the floors of your home.
My best advise is like the other person's answer.get an expert. It's a mess to do yourself. Even with professionals, all the grit gets into everything.
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