Sanding FAQ
11 questions answered by NSW's only Bona Premier Dealer.
Sanding (11)
Is sanding between coats necessary for waterborne finishes?
If you apply the next coat within 24 hours, light abrasion between coats is optional. When you do need to scuff back, maroon pad systems work better than sanding screens -- screens can leave visible scratches in the finish. A professional floor sander uses the correct inter-coat prep technique for each product system.
What sanding quality should I expect on my timber floor?
You should expect fine sanding with edging that doesn't scallop. Sanding marks in the timber shouldn't generally be visible from a standing position, and chatter marks should generally be absent. That's the standard you're looking for -- professional equipment and techniques deliver smooth, mark-free surfaces.
What should I expect during a professional floor sanding and coating job?
ATFA publishes info on what to expect during sanding and coating -- the process steps, noise, dust management, drying times, and what kind of finish quality you can realistically achieve. Understanding the process upfront helps set realistic expectations. Ask your floor sander to walk you through every step before they start.
What is the sanding allowance in tongue and groove timber floors?
Tongue and groove timber floors have a limited sanding allowance -- that's the amount of timber above the tongue that can be removed during sanding before you compromise the joint integrity. ATFA provides technical guidance on sanding allowance to make sure floors don't get over-sanded. Measuring sanding allowance carefully maximises how many future sanding cycles your floor can handle.
Can bamboo floors be sanded?
Yes, bamboo floors can be sanded, but they need specific techniques that differ from traditional hardwood sanding. ATFA provides technical guidance on sanding bamboo floors as part of their information sheet library. It's not the same as sanding a regular hardwood -- you've got to know the differences to get it right.
Can cork floors be sanded?
Yes, cork floors can be sanded, but you need to be careful because of cork's softer, more compressible nature. ATFA includes sanding cork floors among their technical information sheets. Use the right equipment and methods and you can sand a cork floor without damaging the surface. It just takes a lighter touch.
What sanding terminology should I understand?
ATFA publishes a sanding terminology guide covering industry-specific language used by floor sanding professionals. Understanding the terms helps you communicate effectively with your contractor about the work being done. If anything sounds unfamiliar, don't hesitate to ask your floor sander to explain -- they're used to it.
How should I prepare my home before professional floor sanding begins?
Clear all furniture and rugs from the area and make sure the floor sander has clear access. Be aware the work involves noise, dust (even with extraction systems), and coating fumes during and after the process. ATFA publishes guidance on what to expect during sanding and coating. Ask your floor sander for detailed preparation instructions before they start.
What is the correct way to clean up dust during a floor sanding job?
Clean as you go -- use proper vacuum extraction with M Class or H Class filters instead of compressed air, brooms, or blowers. Keeping things clean during the process also gives you better coating results because there's less dust settling on wet finishes. A professional floor sander keeps a clean work environment all the way through every sanding project.
What grit sequence for blackbutt floor sanding?
Typical blackbutt grit sequence: P40, P50 or P60, P80, P100. If the floor is heavily worn or has old coatings, start at P36. If finishing with Hard Wax Oil or Traffic HD Raw, extend to P120. Always run the edger one grit finer than the belt and finish-buffer the whole floor before priming. Use the grit picker at sand-aid.com/grit-picker for sequences tuned to the exact species, condition, and topcoat. Sand-Aid stocks SIA 2800 Zirconia belts P24-P120.
What does the belt sanding process look like on a new hardwood floor?
A belt sander (like the Bona Belt UX) runs along the boards, starting coarse (P36-P40 on new timber) and working finer through P60, P80, P100. Each pass removes the previous grit's scratch pattern. The sander moves with the grain in overlapping passes. After the belt, an edger does the perimeter, then a buffer blends the two zones. On a new install the timber is already flat, so you're refining the surface, not levelling it.Still have a question?
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