Choosing the Right Sandpaper Grit for Different Wood Floors with Floor Sanders London

Published on 31 January 2024

Posted in Floor FinishingFloor Sander HireFloor SandingFloor Sanding Tips

Sanding is a crucial step in restoring the beauty and longevity of your wood floors. Floor sander rental offers a fantastic solution for DIYers, but with so many sandpaper grits available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Fear not – Floor Sander Hire London is here to guide you through the gritty details. The first step is understanding sandpaper grit, then finding the right grip for your job. 

Understanding Sandpaper Grit

The number on sandpaper refers to the grit, which indicates the coarseness of the abrasive particles. Lower grits (e.g., 24) are coarser and remove material quickly, while higher grits (e.g., 220) are finer and create a smooth finish.

Matching Grit to the Job:

The ideal grit depends on the condition of your floor and your desired outcome:

1. Removing Heavy Finishes or Damage:

• Start with coarse grits (24-36): Tackle thick paint, varnish, or deep scratches on hardwood floors.

2. Shaping and Smoothing Uneven Surfaces:

• Medium grits (40-80): Address minor imperfections and level uneven floorboards on softwoods or pre-sanded hardwoods.

3. Preparing for Staining or Fine Finishing:

• Fine grits (100-120): Achieve a smooth base for stain absorption or clear finishes on hardwoods.

4. Polishing and Buffing:

• Extra fine grits (150-220): Create a gleaming, professional finish on previously sanded and finished floors.

Wood Type Matters:

• Hardwoods: Start with higher grits (80-100) to avoid over-sanding and maintain their natural hardness.
• Softwoods: Can tolerate lower grits (60-80) initially for efficient material removal.

Key Sanding Tips

Now that we understand the different types of sandpaper grit for your floor sander rental job, it’s time to get comfortable with the most important sanding tips:

• Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
• Progress through grits sequentially, starting coarse and finishing fine.
• Use a dust extractor to minimise mess and protect your lungs.
• For large jobs, consider renting professional sanding equipment from Floor Sanders London.

Contact Floor Sander Hire London Today

Choosing the right sandpaper grit ensures optimal results for your wood floor project. If you’re unsure, our expert team at Floor Sanders London is always happy to advise!

Contact Floor Sander Hire London today for expert advice, high-quality floor sander rental, and a smoother, more beautiful future for your floors.

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