Refinishing Wood Floors

Refinishing a wood floor is a job that takes care and patience. You'll need to rent a random-orbital sander or upright drum sander and a disc-type edge sander. Ask the rental dealer to demonstrate the machines. A sander that uses 220 volts will work much better than a standard 120-volt machine; be sure you plug it into the correct receptacle.

Sanding a floor with a drum sander requires concentration and smooth movements. If you allow the sander to dig into the floor, it will create an unsightly dip. For floors without heavy finish buildup or deep scratches, an upright random-orbital sander (also called a jitterbug sander) is a better choice. It doesn't work as fast as a drum sander but is less likely to damage the floor.

If only the finish is damaged and you do not need to remove deep scratches, consider "screening" rather than sanding. Rent a janitor's buffing machine, and buy circular screens to fit. If a home center does not have this equipment, check with a flooring supply store.

Do this work on a day when you can open doors and windows to let out the dust. Wear a respirator to contend with fine dust, and seal off adjoining rooms with dampened sheets.